cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Identification of meiotic and postmeiotic gene expression in testicular tissue of patients histologically classified as Sertoli cell only.

Objective: To determine whether meiotic and postmeiotic germ cell gene products could be detected in biopsy specimen from patients with Sertoli cell only (SCO) and maturation arrest. Design: Prospective clinical study. Setting: University-based departments and laboratories. Patient(s): Nine patients, seven with nonobstructive azoospermia (12 biopsies) and two with obstructive azoospermia (controls) (2 biopsies). Intervention(s): Specimens were divided into three parts: IVF laboratory, histology, and molecular analysis. Germ cell-specific messenger RNAs (mRNAs) were detected by extracting total RNA for Northern blotting or reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Main Outcome Measure(s): Detection of meiotic (lactate dehydrogenase C4) and postmeiotic (transition protein 1 and protamine 1 and 2) gene expression and correlation with histologic and IVF laboratory findings. Result(s): The IVF laboratory identified spermatozoa in 3 of 14 biopsies (controls and severe hypospermatogenesis). Histologically, 6 of 14 biopsies (43%) were diagnosed as SCO, 4 (29%) maturation arrest, 2 (14%) severe hypospermatogenesis, and 2 normal. Molecular analysis showed mRNA for meiotic and postmeiotic genes in 12 of 14 biopsies (86%) (P = .006), of which 4 (67%) in SCO and 3 (75%) in maturation arrest. Conclusion(s): Differentiated germ cells are present in biopsies of men histologically diagnosed as SCO. Absence of these molecular markers strengthens the histologic diagnosis and helps the physician in counseling the infertile couple.
Aging in Subdiffusion Generated by a Deterministic Dynamical System

We investigate aging behavior in a simple dynamical system: a nonlinear map which generates subdiffusion deterministically. Asymptotic behaviors of the diffusion process are described using aging continuous time random walks. We show how these processes are described by an aging diffusion equation which is of fractional order. Our work demonstrates that aging behavior can be found in deterministic low dimensional dynamical systems.
EFFECT OF INTRAUTERINE HYPOXIA ON MITOCHONDRIAL RESPIRATORY ACTIVITY OF THE FETAL LAMB

Fetal brain and heart mitochondrial respiratory activity during maternal hypotension was studied in 12 fetal lambs of 120-130 days gestation. Control data were obtained from 16 lambs of comparable gestation. All 28 ewes had low spinal anesthesia. Maternal hypotension was sustained by continuous infusion of trime-taphan camsylate for 60-90 min. Maternal and fetal blood gases were measured prior to and during hypotension. The respiratory activity of isolated brain and heart mitochondria were standardized per mole of cytochrome oxidase determined from the same preparations. In control fetuses brain and heart mitochondrial respiratory activity was 1037 moles of O2 utilized per mole of cytochrome(a + a3) per min. and 1949 moles of O2 utilized per mole of cytochrome(a + a3) per min., respectively. During maternal hypotension fetal blood oxygen tension decreased by a mean of 12 mm Hg from baseline values. Brain and heart mitochondrial respiratory activity decreased to a range of 228-442 moles of O2/mole(a + a3) per min. and 312-400 moles of O2/mole(a + a3) per min., respectively, a significant drop in the metabolic activity(75% in brain and 85% in heart) of the mitochondria. In previous studies we have shown that acute hypoxla does not damage mitochondria when tissue perfusion is well-preserved. The present results suggest that deterioration of fetal mitochondrial respiratory activity is due to a significantly decreased oxygen availability, presumably produced by placental hypoperfusion.
Rate types for stream programs

We introduce RATE TYPES, a novel type system to reason about and optimize data-intensive programs. Built around stream languages, RATE TYPES performs static quantitative reasoning about stream rates -- the frequency of data items in a stream being consumed, processed, and produced. Despite the fact that streams are fundamentally dynamic, we find two essential concepts of stream rate control -- throughput ratio and natural rate -- are intimately related to the program structure itself and can be effectively reasoned about by a type system. RATE TYPES is proven to correspond with a time-aware and parallelism-aware operational semantics. The strong correspondence result tolerates arbitrary schedules, and does not require any synchronization between stream filters.We further implement RATE TYPES, demonstrating its effectiveness in predicting stream data rates in real-world stream programs.
Coming Out and Being Out as Activism: Challenges and Opportunities for Mental Health Professionals in Red and Blue States

SUMMARY As professional organizations have begun to incorporate expectations for addressing social justice and advocacy in competency standards for mental health professionals, they are challenged to stretch their limits and define their personal and professional boundaries. For LGBT professionals, the act of coming out or being out is a basic form of activism. In the context of environmental pressures that professionals come out or be out, it is important to acknowledge both the potential for this basic form of activism to reduce prejudice, and the risk individual's may be taking. It is important to recognize and support professionals in their decisions about when to come out or be out in the same manner that one supports clients in similar situations.
Automatic recognition of emotions from facial expressions

In the human-computer interaction (HCI) process it is desirable to have an artificial intelligent (AI) system that can identify and categorize human emotions from facial expressions. Such systems can be used in security, in entertainment industries, and also to study visual perception, social interactions and disorders (e.g. schizophrenia and autism). In this work we survey and compare the performance of different feature extraction algorithms and classification schemes. We introduce a faster feature extraction method that resizes and applies a set of filters to the data images without sacrificing the accuracy. In addition, we have enhanced SVM to multiple dimensions while retaining the high accuracy rate of SVM. The algorithms were tested using the Japanese Female Facial Expression (JAFFE) Database and the Database of Faces (AT&T Faces).
Implementations of a Flexible Framework for Managing Geologic Sequestration Modeling Projects

Abstract Numerical simulation is a standard practice used to support designing, operating, and monitoring CO 2 injection projects. Although a variety of computational tools have been developed that support the numerical simulation process, many are single-purpose or platform specific and have a prescribed workflow that may or may not be suitable for a particular project. We are developing an open-source, flexible framework named Velo that provides a knowledge management infrastructure and tools to support modeling and simulation for various types of projects in a number of scientific domains. The Geologic Sequestration Software Suite (GS 3 ) is a version of this framework with features and tools specifically tailored for geologic sequestration studies. Because of its general nature, GS 3 is being employed in a variety of ways on projects with differing goals. GS 3 is being used to support the Sim-SEQ international model comparison study, by providing a collaborative framework for the modeling teams and providing tools for model comparison. Another customized deployment of GS 3 has been made to support the Class VI Well geologic sequestration permit application process. In this case, GS 3 is being used to manage data in support of conceptual model development and provide documentation and provenance for numerical simulations. An additional customized deployment of GS 3 is being created for use by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) Underground Injection Control (UIC) Program to aid in the Class VI Well geologic sequestration permit application review process. These use cases demonstrate GS 3 's flexibility. utility, and broad applicability.
Stabilization of large-scale non-linear infinite delay systems

The problem of stabilizing a class of large-scale non-linear infinite delay systems is considered. It is shown that exponential stability can be achieved by a suitable choice of state feedback controls of large-scale systems with infinite delay, and that a Lyapunov functional can be constructed by using certain results from J. K. Hale's Theory of Functional Differential Equations (1977).
QA Automation: What Must Be Considered

As healthcare quality assurance programs grow, so too does the need to gather and provide vast amounts of information. To meet this challenge, QA programs have turned to the use of computer systems. As this article makes clear, QA automation involves more than simply the purchase of computer hardware and software. Much time, planning, research, preparation, testing, and education are required to create an effectively automated QA program. The author provides a realistic review of the major stages and elements of the QA automation process, beginning with the search for appropriate software and concluding with the diversification possibilities of a fully integrated program.
The collapse of quantum states: a new interpretation

The collapse of quantum states is analyzed in terms of a breakdown into two generic phases: Phase I, in which the field of potentialities that the quantum state represents undergoes a discontinuous and unpredictable change into one of the base states which corresponds to the measurement performed, and phase II, in which a transition from the level of potentialities to the level of actualities takes place. Phase I is discussed in relation to a comment about collapse, made by Dirac in conversation with the author, “Nature makes a choice.” An analysis of phase II leads to the suggestion that it occurs only through and as an act of experience. This postulate is shown to elucidate basic questions regarding the interpretation of quantum mechanics, such as the elusive demarcation line between the classical and quantum domains, and the controversy of the ontological vs. epistemological interpretation of quantum mechanics.
Investigating Allosteric Coupling Mechanism in Constitutively Active Human Glucocorticoid Receptor Two Domain Construct

Glucocorticoid receptor (GR) is a hormone dependent nuclear transcription factor. It plays key roles in organ development, metabolite homeostasis, and stress and inflammatory response. GR is composed of three major domains, the intrinsically disordered (ID) N-terminal domain (NTD), the DNA binding domain (DBD) and the ligand binding domain (LBD). Several human GR translational isoforms differing only in the lengths of their ID NTDs with finely tunable transcription activity have been identified.In my project, through thermodynamic analysis of the ID NTD constructs of different translational isoforms, we found that full length GR NTD can be viewed as having at least two thermodynamically coupled regions, a functional (F) region, indispensable for GR transcriptional activity, and a regulatory (R) region, whose length serves to regulate the stability of NTD, and thus the activity of GR. F region and R region are negatively coupled to each other [1].Truncation of LBD from the full length receptor removes the hormone dependence of GR transcription activity, and generates the constitutively active GR NTD-DBD two domain constructs. From investigating the NTD-DBD two domain constructs of different translational isoforms by in vitro biophysics assays and in vivo luciferase activity assay, we are on the way figuring out the coupling mechanism between the DBD and ID NTD.Allosteric coupling mechanisms derived from our experimental data makes it possible to build the Ensemble Allosteric Coupling Model (EAM) to explain the finely tunable activity of different GR translational isoforms, which cannot be accounted for by the binding energetics between the different isoforms and the GR response element.[1] Jing Li, et al. Thermodynamic dissection of the intrinsically disordered N-terminal domain of human glucocorticoid receptor. J Biol Chem. 2012.
The Flexible Mortgage: Optimal Financing of a Consumer Durable

Given the recent flood of new mortgage innovations, it is natural to wonder what features a mortgage which is “optimal” from the consumer's point of view might possess. This paper investigates this issue, using optimal control theory to characterize the time profile of mortgage payments (as well as the value of the mortgage) that maximizes an intertemporal utility function. Among other things, the analysis shows that the optimal mortgage payment stream rises over time under reasonable assumptions, highlighting the non-optimality of the standard flat-payment mortgage.
The chemical composition of some stony meteorites

Abstract New evidence is presented for the existence of two main groups among the chondrites. These are the H and L groups of Urey and Craig (1953), with 28 and 22 per cent total iron, respectively. Subdivision of the H-group into subgroups of different chemical composition is discussed. New analyses of twenty-one stony meteorites, including eleven carbonaceous chondrites, are presented.
Alpha- and beta-adrenoreceptor blockers have opposite effects on energy metabolism of the central auditory system.

THE autoradiographic 14C-deoxyglucose assay has made it possible to measure the local rates of glucose utilisation (LCGU) simultaneously in all the macroscopic components of the central nervous system1. Because of the close relationship between local cerebral functional and metabolic activities, the method has proved useful in mapping the distribution of alterations in cerebral functional activity in experimental physiological states2, and to identify components of cerebral dopaminergic systems in studies with the dopamine agonists, apomorphine3 and amphetamine4. Noradrenergic systems, including both α- and β-adrenergic receptors, have been identified in brain and implicated in various behavioural and affective states in man and animals5,6. Drugs with α- or β-adrenergic blocking actions exhibit effects on mood and behaviour5,6. Propranolol, a β-adrenergic blocking agent, has, in fact, been used as a therapeutic agent in the control of psychotic symptoms7,8. In an attempt to localise the regions of the brain in which functional and/or metabolic activities are altered by adrenergic blockade, we have used the 14C-deoxyglucose method to study the effects of the β-adrenergic blocker, DL-propranolol, and the α-adrenergic blocker, phentolamine. The results demonstrate strikingly opposite effects of these drugs in the auditory system of the rat.
T1-T2 squamous cell carcinoma of the glottic larynx treated with radiotherapy: a multivariate analysis of variables potentially influencing local control

Abstract Purpose: To examine various parameters that might influence the probability of local control of T1–T2 glottic carcinoma treated with radiotherapy. Methods and Materials: Two hundred forty-seven patients with invasive, previously untreated T1–T2 squamous cell carcinoma of the glottic larynx were treated with radiotherapy between May 1977 and December 1989. All patients had a minimum 2-year follow-up. To minimize treatment-related variables, only patients with T1 lesions treated once daily at 225 cGy per fraction and patients with T2 lesions treated once daily at 225 cGy per fraction or twice daily at 120 cGy per fraction were included. Surgical alternative, thickness of the neck at the posterior edge of the lateral fields, vocal cord mobility, anterior commissure involvement, gender, and T stage were evaluated in a multivariate analysis. Results: The 5-year local control rates, calculated by the product-limit method, were T1a, 95%; T1b, 96%; T2a, 87%; and T2b, 76%. The 5-year local control rate for patients with T2 lesions treated with once-daily fractionation was 81% compared with 91% for those who received twice-a-day radiotherapy. For the endpoint of local control with irradiation, the surgical alternative ( p = .020) and cord mobility ( p = .001) were of independent prognostic significance. Conclusion: Of the variables analyzed, only vocal cord mobility and surgical alternative significantly influenced local control. Specifically, anterior commissure involvement and neck thickness did not affect local control.
Noninvasive comprehensive characterization of renal artery stenosis by combination of STAR angiography and EPISTAR perfusion imaging

In a small fraction of patients with hypertension, the cause is stenosis of the renal artery. To date, there is no established noninvasive screening technique available to identify this population, for whom treatment with a surgical procedure or percutaneous transluminal angioplasty is often possible. In this study, the sensitivity and specificity of STAR angiography and EPISTAR perfusion imaging in characterizing renal artery stenosis were evaluated in an animal model. Qualitatively, STAR provided projection angiograms that were comparably sensitive to x-ray angiograms but obtained noninvasively. The sensitivity for detecting the stenosis was 100%. The specificity varied according to the definition of the threshold for significance, which varied 78-94%, depending on whether > 70% or > 50% diameter reduction was considered. Improvements in specificity will depend upon use of shorter echo times and higher spatial resolution. Our preliminary data indicate that EPISTAR provides sensitivity and specificity of 100% for characterizing stenosis with diameter reductions of > 70%.
Simulation Fidelity and Cueing: A Systematic Review of the Literature

Abstract Even as simulation use in health care education has proliferated, there are terms used in simulation design that often lack clarity, in particular fidelity and cueing. To gain a better understanding of these terms, this article reports a systematic review of the literature for attributes and definitions of fidelity and cueing. Inclusion criteria included theoretical, educational, and empirical literature across disciplines that use simulation for educational or training purposes. Excluded w\ere publications with a nonhuman, noneducational, or primary or secondary school focus. Search strategies yielded 248 publications of which 13 met inclusion criteria. Results indicate fidelity is a multidimensional concept forming a matrix comprising physical, psychological, and conceptual dimensions. Cueing comprises two types, reality and conceptual cues, with mode of delivery enacted via equipment, environment, or patient and role characters. The article offers implications for simulation design considering the attributes of fidelity and cueing.
DYNAMICS OF IONIZED MEDIA

The behavior of an ionized plasma is discussed in an approximation in which an individual particle is assumed to obey a Fokker-Planck equation, and where its interaction with the environment is incorporated in the coefficients of the partial differential equation. It is found that if the interaction of the test particle with the medium is divided into a "nearest neighbor" interaction (which manifests itself in "large-angle collisions") and an interaction with the rest of the medium, then the latter can be adequately treated by perturbation method. If the nearest neighbor interaction is neglected, the coefficients of successive derivatives form a rapidly decreasing sequence, provided the average kinetic energy greatly exceeds the mean potential energy (which is usually the case). Within the framework of this approximation the coefficients of damping (dynamical friction) and diffusion in velocity space are calculated and the higher (small) coefficients are estimated.
Fowler-Nordheim tunneling in SiO2 films

Abstract The observation of Fowler-Nordheim tunneling from a magnesium electrode into the conduction band of SiO2 is reported. The observed tunnel currents are independent of temperature and have the theoretical voltage dependence over a range of five decades. The present data together with previously reported values for the Mg-SiO2 barrier energy indicate an average effective mass ratio of 0.47 for electrons in the oxide forbidden band.
Channel Strategies and Stocking Policies in Uncapacitated and Capacitated Supply Chains

A supply chain consisting of a single supplier distributing two independent products through multiple retailers is analyzed in this paper. The supplier needs to incentivize its retailers to adopt stocking policies that are mutually advantageous and that result in the optimal level of market coverage. The focus is on determining the optimal stocking policies for retailers and the resulting distribution strategy given that the supplier has either unlimited or limited capacity. The results provide insights on the optimal distribution strategy and stocking policies for the supply chain. In general, the paper shows that it is optimal for the supplier to use an intensive distribution strategy (i.e., the products are stocked by all retailers). Selective or exclusive strategies are optimal only when retailers are risk averse, stocking synergies exist, and there are differences in demand or supply uncertainties across products. The analysis also shows that retailers hold larger stocks of a product which generates higher supplier margins but only when the supplier has unlimited capacity. If the supplier has limited capacity, then their margins have no effect on retailers' stocking decisions. Contrary to conventional wisdom, retailers hold larger stocks of a product that has less demand uncertainty as compared to one that has more demand uncertainty.
Heat Transfer Augmentation Technologies for Internal Cooling of Turbine Components of Gas Turbine Engines

To provide an overview of the current state of the art of heat transfer augmentation schemes employed for internal cooling of turbine blades and components, results from an extensive literature review are presented with data from internal cooling channels, both with and without rotation. According to this survey, a very small number of existing investigations consider the use of combination devices for internal passage heat transfer augmentation. Examples are rib turbulators, pin fins, and dimples together, a combination of pin fins and dimples, and rib turbulators and pin fins in combination. The results of such studies are compared with data obtained prior to 2003 without rotation influences. Those data are comprised of heat transfer augmentation results for internal cooling channels, with rib turbulators, pin fins, dimpled surfaces, surfaces with protrusions, swirl chambers, or surface roughness. This comparison reveals that all of the new data, obtained since 2003, collect within the distribution of globally averaged data obtained from investigations conducted prior to 2003 (without rotation influences). The same conclusion in regard to data distributions is also reached in regard to globally averaged thermal performance parameters as they vary with friction factor ratio. These comparisons, made on the basis of such judgment criteria, lead to the conclusion that improvements in our ability to provide better spatially-averaged thermal protection have been minimal since 2003. When rotation is present, existing investigations provide little evidence of overall increases or decreases in overall thermal performance characteristics with rotation, at any value of rotation number, buoyancy parameter, density ratio, or Reynolds number. Comparisons between existing rotating channel experimental data and the results obtained prior to 2003, without rotation influences, also show that rotation has little effect on overall spatially-averaged thermal performance as a function of friction factor.
Osteopontin enhances HIV replication and is increased in the brain and cerebrospinal fluid of HIV-infected individuals

Despite effective and widely available suppressive anti-HIV therapy, the prevalence of mild neurocognitive dysfunction continues to increase. HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND) is a multifactorial disease with sustained central nervous system inflammation and immune activation as prominent features. Inflammatory macrophages, HIV-infected and uninfected, play a central role in the development of HIV dementia. There is a critical need to identify biomarkers and to better understand the molecular mechanisms leading to cognitive dysfunction in HAND. In this regard, we identified through a subtractive hybridization strategy osteopontin (OPN, SPP1, gene) an inflammatory marker, as an upregulated gene in HIV-infected primary human monocyte-derived macrophages. Knockdown of OPN in primary macrophages resulted in a threefold decrease in HIV-1 replication. Ectopic expression of OPN in the TZM-bl cell line significantly enhanced HIV infectivity and replication. A significant increase in the degradation of the NF-κB inhibitor, IκBα and an increase in the nuclear-to-cytoplasmic ratio of NF-κB were found in HIV-infected cells expressing OPN compared to controls. Moreover, mutation of the NF-κB binding domain in the HIV-LTR abrogated enhanced promoter activity stimulated by OPN. Interestingly, compared to cerebrospinal fluid from normal and multiple sclerosis controls, OPN levels were significantly higher in HIV-infected individuals both with and without neurocognitive disorder. OPN levels were highest in HIV-infected individuals with moderate to severe cognitive impairment. Moreover, OPN was significantly elevated in brain tissue from HIV-infected individuals with cognitive disorder versus those without impairment. Collectively, these data suggest that OPN stimulates HIV-1 replication and that high levels of OPN are present in the CNS compartment of HIV-infected individuals, reflecting ongoing inflammatory processes at this site despite anti-HIV therapy.
Parenting the Premature Infant: Potential Iatrogenesis from the Neonatal Intensive Care Experience

(1) Developmental outcomes of premature infants are associated with the quality of the home environment and the level of parenting skills the family possesses. Successful development of the parenting role may be negatively influenced by the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) environment and nursing practices. Identification of interventions that promote the development of parenting skills in the NICU can potentially improve developmental outcomes for premature infants.
Eversion during external rotation of the human cadaver foot produces high ankle sprains.

While high ankle sprains are often clinically ascribed to excessive external foot rotation, no experimental study documents isolated anterior tibiofibular ligament (ATiFL) injury under this loading. We hypothesized that external rotation of a highly everted foot would generate ATiFL injury, in contrast to deltoid ligament injury from external rotation of a neutral foot. Twelve (six pairs) male cadaveric lower extremity limbs underwent external foot rotation until gross failure. All limbs were positioned in 20° of dorsiflexion and restrained with elastic athletic tape. Right limbs were in neutral while left limbs were everted 20°. Talus motion relative to the tibia was measured using motion capture. Rotation at failure for everted limbs (46.8 ± 6.1°) was significantly greater than for neutral limbs (37.7 ± 5.4°). Everted limbs showed ATiFL injury only, while neutral limbs mostly demonstrated deltoid ligament failure. This is the first biomechanical study to produce isolated ATiFL injury under external foot rotation. Eversion of the axially loaded foot predisposes the ATiFL to injury, forming a basis for high ankle sprain. The study helps clarify a mechanism of high ankle sprain and may heighten clinical awareness of isolated ATiFL injury in cases of foot eversion prior to external rotation. It may also provide guidance to investigate the effect of prophylactic measures for this injury. © 2012 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 30:1423–1429, 2012
Welfare Reform and Substance Abuse

The 1996 Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act (PRWORA) changed the nature, purpose, and financing of public aid. Researchers, administrators, and policymakers expressed special concern about the act's impact on low-income mothers with substance use disorders. Before PRWORA's passage, however, little was known about the true prevalence of these disorders among welfare recipients or about the likely effectiveness of substance abuse treatment interventions for welfare recipients. Subsequent research documented that substance abuse disorders are less widespread among welfare recipients than was originally thought and are less common than other serious barriers to self-sufficiency. This research also showed significant administrative barriers to the screening, assessment, and referral of drug-dependent welfare recipients. This article summarizes current research findings and examines implications for welfare reform reauthorization.
Constraints on Solutions of Long's Equation for Steady, Two-Dimensional, Hydrostatic Flow over a Ridge

Abstract Two-dimensional, stratified shear flow over a ridge is considered. The finite-amplitude disturbances are steady and hydrostatic, and solutions are derived from the Boussinesq from the Long's equation. Two limiting solutions are examined; viz., 1) the case of marginal or neutral static stability and 2) the case of infinite static stability either at or above the lower boundary. The former case is associated with a critical point for the horizontal flow velocity, u=0; an infinite value of u accompanies the latter case. The conditions for neutral static stability that have been derived for uniform upstream flow conditions are shown to apply to the case when both the upstream static stability N¯(z¯) and the horizontal velocity u¯(z¯) are nonuniform in the vertical direction z¯. Upstream variations of N¯(z¯) and u¯(z¯) cannot be specified arbitrarily if the relative vorticity vanishes at some point either at the ridge or in the airstream above. An unbounded solution, u = ∞, of Long's equation will occ...
Non-cardiogenic pulmonary edema after pericardial drainage for cardiac tamponade.

We report a patient who developed adult respiratory distress syndrome following relief of pericardial tamponade. Because of increasing recognition of pulmonary edema in this situation, we recommend gradual removal of pericardial fluid with hemodynamic monitoring to limit the massive fluid shifts which appear to herald this dire complication. (Chest 1988; 94:869-70)
Fluid and solid mechanical implications of vascular stenting.

Vascular stents have emerged as an effective treatment for occlusive vascular disease. Despite their success and widespread use, outcomes for patients receiving stents are still hampered by thrombosis and restensosis. As arteries attempt to adapt to the mechanical changes created by stents, they may in fact create a new flow-limiting situation similar to that which they were intended to correct. In vitro fluid mechanics and solid mechanics studies of stented vessels have revealed important information about how stents alter the mechanical environment in the arteries into which they are placed. Adverse nonlaminar flow patterns have been demonstrated as well as remarkably high stress concentrations in the vessel wall. In vivo studies of stented vessels have also shown a strong relationship between stent design and their dynamic performance within arteries. Alterations in pressure and flow pulses distal to the stent have been observed, as well as regional changes in vascular compliance. Considering the influence of flow and stress on the vascular response and the suboptimal clinical outcomes associated with stenting, knowledge gained from stent/artery mechanics studies should play an increasingly important role in improving the long-term patency of these devices. © 2002 Biomedical Engineering Society. PAC2002: 8719Rr, 8780-y, 8719Uv
A developmental constraint on the fledging time of birds

We examined the hypothesis that the rate of bone growth limits the minimum fledging time of birds. Previous observations in California gulls indicate that linear growth of wing bones may be the rate limiting factor in wing development. If bone growth is rate limiting, then birds with relatively long bones for their size could be expected to have longer fledging periods than birds with relatively short bones. We tested this by comparing the length of wing bones, relative to body mass, to the relative length of fledging periods among 25 families. The results support the hypothesis. A strong correlation exists between relative fledging period and relative bone length. Species which have relatively long bones for their body size tend to take longer to fly. In contrast, parameters that influence flight style and performance, such as size of the pectoralis muscle and wing loading, show little or no correlation with fledging time. The analysis also indicates that, when altricial and precocial species are considered together, bone length is more highly correlated with fledging time than is body mass or rate of increase in body mass during growth. These observations suggest that linear growth of bones does limit the growth of avian wings and that it is one of the factors that influences the fledging time of birds.
Markets and Corporate Conflict: A Substitution‐Cost Approach to Business Litigation

This paper examines the phenomenon of conflict escalation in business relations. A theory of when conflict between firms will proceed from informal relationship-preserving norms to more formal and destructive end games involving litigation is developed and tested. The central theoretical claim is that substitution costs serve as an impediment against the escalation of conflict. Data on market concentration and dollar flows between aggregate markets in the economy are used to develop measures of substitution costs. Measures of substitution costs and trade figures are also used to describe power advantages in markets. The theory is tested through a series of regression models. The main findings are that (1) when substitution costs are high, parties are less likely to escalate conflict and (2) asymmetric market relations result in less conflict escalation than symmetric ones. Empirical analysis indicates that substitution costs are related in predictable and meaningful ways to conflict escalation and business litigation.
The Open Access Availability of Library and Information Science Literature

To examine the open access availability of Library and Information Science (LIS) research, a study was conducted using Google Scholar to search for articles from 20 top LIS journals. The study examined whether Google Scholar was able to find any links to full text, if open access versions of the articles were available and where these articles were being hosted. The results showed that the archiving of articles is not a regular practice in the field; articles are not being deposited in institutional or subject repositories at a high rate; and, overall, the percentage of available open access articles in LIS was similar to the findings in previous studies. In addition, the study found that Google Scholar is an effective tool for finding known LIS articles.
Mid- to long-wavelength infrared plasmonic-photonics using heavily doped n-Ge/Ge and n-GeSn/GeSn heterostructures

Heavily doped n-type Ge and GeSn are investigated as plasmonic conductors for integration with undoped dielectrics of Si, SiGe, Ge, and GeSn in order to create a foundry-based group IV plasmonics technology. N-type Ge1-xSnx with compositions of 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.115 are investigated utilizing effective-mass theory and Drude considerations. The plasma wavelengths, relaxation times, and complex permittivities are determined as functions of the free carrier concentration over the range of 1019 to 1021 cm−3. Basic plasmonic properties such as propagation loss and mode height are calculated and example numerical simulations are shown of a dielectric-conductor-dielectric ribbon waveguide structure are shown. Practical operation in the 2 to 20 μm wavelength range is predicted.
A fast streaming spanner algorithm for incrementally constructing sparse roadmaps

Sampling-based probabilistic roadmap algorithms such as PRM and PRM* have been shown to be effective at solving certain motion planning problems, but the large graphs generated to express the connectivity and a metric on the configuration space may require much storage space and be expensive to search. Recent work by Marble and Bekris [14], [19] applied spanner algorithms to PRM* these algorithms prune some edges in a dense graph, while guaranteeably maintaining an approximation to the metric. In this paper, we apply (and improve) a state-of-the-art streaming spanner algorithm to prune PRM* roadmaps. The algorithm we present has the main advantage of computational speed; when applied to PRM*, the processing time per vertex is independent of the number of sampled vertices, n, as compared to O(nlog2 nloglogn) in [19]. In practice, the algorithm we present prunes a graph with about 20 million edges in less than 20 seconds on a modern desktop computer; compared to the time required for generating such a roadmap, this additional processing time is essentially trivial. In fact, because the combination of this algorithm with PRM* avoids the need for many collision detections, the combination runs several times faster than PRM*alone.
Synthesis and luminescence properties of Cr(III) complexes with cyclam-type ligands having pendant chromophores, trans-[Cr(L)Cl(2)]Cl.

The synthesis and spectroscopic properties of new cyclam-type ligands 5,7-dimethyl-6-R-1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane (L), where R is a pendant chromophore such as an anthracene derivative, are reported. These ligands were prepared according to a nickel(II) template procedure, and the X-ray crystal structures of several Ni(II) intermediates are described. Reaction of the free base ligands L with CrCl3·3THF resulted in facile formation of trans-[Cr(L)Cl2]Cl complexes, and the structures and spectroscopic characterizations of these complexes are also described. Examination of the photophysical properties of trans-[Cr(L)Cl2]Cl solutions at 77 K demonstrated the emission spectra to be dominated by phosphorescence from the ligand field doublet of the chromium(III) center. This also applies to the Cr(III) complex trans-[Cr(mac)Cl2]Cl, where mac is the anthracene derivative 5,7-dimethyl-6-anthracenylcyclam. Excitation into the π−π* states of the anthracene leads to marked quenching of the fluorescence from th...
The impact of indigenous healing activity: an empirical study of two fundamentalist churches.

Abstract This paper describes the relationship between the form and frequency of religious activity within two fundamentalist churches and the emotional status of the participants. The data derive from a 13-month field study of all church activity within a Newfoundland coastal community where religiously-based healing rituals are a primary indigenous response to illness and general misfortune. Based on systematic observations of religious behaviors and responses to the Cornell Medical Index by all members of both churches, it was found in one church that the more frequently people engaged in religious activities of all types, the less likely they are to report symptoms of emotional distress. Significant variation was found between the churches and within the churches in terms of the psychological impact of types of religious activity. These variations are related to the sociocultural structure of healing efforts within the churches as well as to the patterned roles of male and female participants. The results are discussed in terms of current issues involving the cross-cultural evaluation of indigenous healing activity and future lines of research are outlined.
The Role of Program Quality in Producing Early Childhood Program Benefits

It is widely accepted by the field of early childhood education and by the public that high-quality preschool programs for young children from low-income families can have long-term benefits, although studies of early childhood programs in typical communities have often failed to find similar long-term effects. Some argue that variations in the quality or developmental appropriateness of programs can account for differences in effectiveness. This article reviews studies designed to define and measure the effects of quality in early care and education, and it analyzes the programs provided in successful long-term studies to look for common elements that may be critical to the long-term effectiveness of preschool. The conclusions of the analysis are that effective programs were characterized by combinations of most of the following elements: (1) small class sizes with low ratios of children to teachers; (2) teachers who received support to reflect on and improve their teaching practices; (3) a concentrated or long-lasting intervention; (4) ongoing, child-focused communication between home and school; and (5) use of some curriculum content and classroom processes that are similar to what children encounter in traditional schooling. Recommendations for policy, practice, and research are offered to promote the adoption of these effective practices in all types of early childhood programs.
Staphylococcus epidermidis — the 'accidental' pathogen

Although nosocomial infections by Staphylococcus epidermidis have gained much attention, this skin-colonizing bacterium has apparently evolved not to cause disease, but to maintain the commonly benign relationship with its host. Accordingly, S. epidermidis does not produce aggressive virulence determinants. Rather, factors that normally sustain the commensal lifestyle of S. epidermidis seem to give rise to additional benefits during infection. Furthermore, we are beginning to comprehend the roles of S. epidermidis in balancing the epithelial microflora and serving as a reservoir of resistance genes. In this Review, I discuss the molecular basis of the commensal and infectious lifestyles of S. epidermidis.
DC Microgrids: Economic Operation and Enhancement of Resilience by Hierarchical Control

The additional deployment of distributed energy resources (DERs) has attracted further attention to dc microgrid applications. The objective of the study is to discuss the possibilities and the merits of adopting a dc control system for enhancing the economics and the resilient operation of a dc microgrid, and to test the proposed hierarchical control strategy that applies to a dc microgrid. This paper provides case studies in which an existing microgrid at the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) is operated as a dc microgrid and the results for each case are compared with the ac model. The structure, components, and control strategies of IIT dc microgrids are discussed and the economic operation of a grid-connected dc microgrid through tertiary control, as well as islanding, load restoration, and resynchronization of the dc microgrid are simulated. The dc microgrid simulation results are compared with those of an ac microgrid, which demonstrate that the proposed coordinated dc strategy for the optimal operation of DERs is an effective way of ensuring the resilient response of dc microgrid to emergencies and its economic operation at steady state.
Web-based multimedia information retrieval for clinical application research

We described a web-based data warehousing method for retrieving and analyzing neurological multimedia information. The web-based method supports convenient access, effective search and retrieval of clinical textual and image data, and on-line analysis. To improve the flexibility and efficiency of multimedia information query and analysis, a three-tier, multimedia data warehouse for epilepsy research has been built. The data warehouse integrates clinical multimedia data related to epilepsy from disparate sources and archives them into a well-defined data model.© (2001) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The CDF silicon detector upgrade and performance

Abstract The CDF silicon tracking and vertexing system for Run2a of the Tevatron consists of eight layers, arranged in cylinders, spanning radii from 1.35 to 28 cm , and lengths from 90 cm to nearly 2 m for a total of 6 m 2 of silicon and 722,000 readout channels. This article will cover the last phase of detector assembly as well as the internal alignment of the subdetectors. The installation of the silicon into the main CDF detector, its commissioning and data taking will be discussed. First results will show signal to noise and charge collection of the ladders as well as the global alignment of the CDF drift chamber and the silicon detector with respect to each other and to the beam.
Genetic recombination of nucleosomal templates is mediated by transcription

An in vitro system has been developed to examine the influence of transcription on genetic rearrangement. Using a homologous pairing assay, the transfer of one strand of a nucleosomal template onto a recipient DNA molecule was monitored as a function of RNA polymerase activity. Transcriptionally inactive nucleosomal DNA was refractory to homologous pairing. Homologous pairing was catalyzed, however, by the eukaryotic recombinase, recl, when the nucleosomal template was being transcribed. The reaction was found to be dependent on the presence of rec1, RNA polymerase, NTPs and RNA synthesis. Heteroduplex formation between a short DNA duplex fragment assembled into a nucleosome and a single-stranded circle relied also on the presence of sequence homology between the duplex and the circle. The results of this study lend support to the notion that transcriptionally active regions within a chromosome are more apt to serve as sites of genetic recombination.
Disposition of Sulfonamides in Food-Producing Animals IV: Pharmacokinetics of Sulfamethazine in Cattle following Administration of an Intravenous Dose and Three Oral Dosage Forms

The plasma and urine data obtained following intravenous administration of sulfamethazine to cattle were fit to a one-compartment pharmacokinetic model with a half-life of elimination of 9 hr and a volume of distribution of 0.35 liter/kg. Sulfamethazine was eliminated by excretion of unchanged sulfamethazine (18%) into urine and by formation of three metabolites subsequently excreted into urine. Sulfamethazine also was administered as a solution, a rapid-release bolus, and a sustained-release bolus. The change in the urinary metabolic pattern with different routes of administration suggested that first-pass metabolism was occurring during the absorption process. The absorption half-life was 6 hr. The absorption process for the two solid boluses kinetically appeared to include a dissolution step.
Comment: The polygraph and the PVP

Joseph Gastwirth's paper concerns an increasingly important issue affecting public policy-the estimation of error rates in tests for such things as diseases, deception, and drugs. Gastwirth explores the estimator C of the predictive value of a positive test (PVP or P(D I S)) and the variance of C. He explains how C depends on the sensitivity q, the specificity 0, the base rate ir, and the sample proportion p of those whom the diagnostic test classifies as having the disease. Furthermore, for large samples, he demonstrates how the variance of C depends on q, 0, ir and the sample sizes used in estimating these quantities. Not being a statistician, I shall not attempt to address the technical aspects of Gastwirth's analysis. As an attorney, I am drawn to his discussion of the admissibility of polygraph evidence. First, I shall elaborate on his description of the standards for admissibility of such evidence. Then I shall consider the extent to which his analysis of C and Var(C) might be brought to bear on the legal question of the admissibility of polygraph evidence.