cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Regulatory Governance in African Telecommunications: Testing the Resource Curse Hypothesis

This paper examines regulatory governance in the context of African telecommunications. Though there is already a substantial literature devoted to the regulatory practices in developing countries, it generally conceptualizes the quality of regulation as an exogenous policy variable that affects the performance of the telecommunications sector or treats it as a normative recommendation to improve performance.This paper approaches the quality of governance from a different perspective. Understanding how the degree of regulatory governance might be related to the structural characteristics of a developing economy will provide new insights into what factors should be adopted in order to increase effective regulation. It applies to telecommunications the theory known in development economics as the paradox of plenty or the resource curse, by which countries richly endowed with natural resources lag behind in the development of governance institutions. We therefore expect an inverse correlation between natural resource dependence and the quality of regulatory governance in telecommunications.To develop an index of regulatory governance, we use a meta-analytic procedure based on previously published indices of governance quality in telecommunications. This index value is then compared to several measures of natural resource dependence in 53 African countries. The results indicate that, contrary to the predictions of the resource curse hypothesis, highly resource dependent countries tend to have moderate levels of regulatory governance, while resource poor countries display a much wider range of regulatory quality.
Inferring team task plans from human meetings: a generative modeling approach with logic-based prior

We aim to reduce the burden of programming and deploying autonomous systems to work in concert with people in time-critical domains such as military field operations and disaster response. Deployment plans for these operations are frequently negotiated on-the-fly by teams of human planners. A human operator then translates the agreed-upon plan into machine instructions for the robots. We present an algorithm that reduces this translation burden by inferring the final plan from a processed form of the human team's planning conversation. Our hybrid approach combines probabilistic generative modeling with logical plan validation used to compute a highly structured prior over possible plans, enabling us to overcome the challenge of performing inference over a large solution space with only a small amount of noisy data from the team planning session. We validate the algorithm through human subject experimentations and show that it is able to infer a human team's final plan with 86% accuracy on average. We also describe a robot demonstration in which two people plan and execute a first-response collaborative task with a PR2 robot. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first work to integrate a logical planning technique within a generative model to perform plan inference.
The Timing of Total Hip Arthroplasty After Intraarticular Hip Injection Affects Postoperative Infection Risk

Abstract Background The data regarding any association between preoperative intraarticular steroid injection and risk ofperiprosthetic joint infection (PJI) after total hip arthroplasty (THA) are conflicting. The goal of the present study is to evaluate the association of preoperative intraarticular hip injection before THA on the incidence of postoperative PJI. Methods A national database was queried for patients who underwent THA and those patients who underwent prior ipsilateral hip injection. Three cohorts were created: THA within 3 months of ipsilateral hip injection (n = 829), THA between 3 and 6 months after ipsilateral hip injection (n= 1379), and THA between 6 and 12months after ipsilateral hip injection (n=1160). A control group of THAwithout prior injectionwas created for comparison purposes (n=31,229). The rate of postoperative infectionwas compared between injection cohorts and controls. Results The incidence of infection after THA at 3 months (2.41%; odds ratio, 1.9; P = .004) and 6 months (3.74%; odds ratio, 1.5; P Conclusions The present study demonstrates a significant increase in PJI in patients who underwent intraarticular hip injection within 3 months before THA. This association was not noted when THA was more than 3 months after injection.
The broadbandwagon!: A personal view of optical fibre to the home

Abstract Broadband to the home is here again, this time in the form of optical fibre capable of carrying a host of two-way interactive and one-way broadcast audio and video services, ranging from simple telephony to video-on-demand. Although many seem eager to jump on the ‘broadbandwagon’, I claim that the technology, consumer, market and industry are all very hazy and doubtful. Hence, a wise strategy would be to remain on the sidelines and let the broadbandwagon pass by.
Capacity bounds of finite secondary cognitive radio networks

Though there are works that show the asymptotic capacity bounds in a wireless network considering interference constraints from all transmitting nodes, there are no such evaluation of capacity bounds for finite secondary cognitive radio networks where the primaries pose additional constraints. In this paper, we find the bounds for the maximum achievable capacity of a randomly deployed secondary cognitive radio network with finite number of nodes in the presence of primary users, i.e., in the underlay mode. Since solving the functional constrained optimization problem of maximizing the secondary network's capacity subject to other radio constraints is computationally complex, we derive analytical bounds for the solution. We also show how a pre-engineered deployment with the best possible pairings of transmitters and receivers can help attain the best possible system capacity. The bounds are based on the maximum signal to interference and noise ratio (SINR) of all transmitter-receiver pairs and their geometrical placement. The derived bounds provide an insight about the network's maximum and minimum achievable capacities since solving the optimization problem shows in-scalability both in time and search space dimensionality.
Sensitive miRNA expression profiling from low expression total RNA.

B18 MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small single-stranded noncoding RNAs that have been found in animals, plants, viruses and humans. miRNA expression profiling of human tumors has identified signatures associated with diagnosis, staging, progression, prognosis and response to treatment of cancer. Recent studies show that microarray-based assays offer an efficient method for measuring the expression profile of large numbers of miRNAs simultaneously. However, the small size and high sequence homology of miRNAs present major challenges to sample labeling and microarray probe design. We have developed a sensitive and robust multiplexed miRNA profiling assay system that is based on a highly efficient sample labeling methods and sensitive microarray probe design. Here we examined low expression RNA from human cancer cells using the new assay system and found that the miRNA profiles from low expression samples were surprisingly informative, successively classifying low level of miRNA. These findings highlight the potential of miRNA profiling of low expression RNA in cancer diagnosis.
Improving Your Chances: Boosting Citizen Science Discovery

Citizen scientists are playing an increasing role in helping collect, process, and/or analyze data used to study a variety of scientific phenomena. We address the problem of identifying tasks that are rewarding to the citizen scientists, which results in greater participation, leading to more data and better models. We apply our methodology to eBird, whose participants are avid birders interested in observing different species while contributing to science. In order to improve the birders' chances of meeting their goals, we consider the following probabilistic maximum coverage problem: Given a set of locations, select a subset of size k, such that the birders maximize the expected number of observed species by visiting such locations. We also consider a secondary objective that gives preference to birding sites not previously visited. We consider two variants of the probabilistic maximum coverage problem, provide a theoretical analysis, describe several algorithms with provable approximation guarantees, as well as heuristic approaches, and provide empirical results using eBird data. Our algorithms are fast and provide high quality recommendations.
A Comparison of Alternative Bivariate Normal Probability Estimation Procedures for Compound and Min-Max Options

Pricing compound and min-max options requires the estimation of the bivariate normal probability. Using the slower Simpson numerical integration as the accuracy benchmark, four alternative bivariate normal probability estimation methods are compared in terms of accuracy and speed in pricing compound and min-max options. The results show that the methods of Divgi and Drezner-Wesolowsky seem to be preferred for compound options while the method of Divgi performs best on min-max options. The combined results suggest that the Divgi method offers the best combination of speed and accuracy.
Occurrence of fumonisin in forage grass in new zealand.

Fumonisin B1 (FB1) was isolated from samples of forage grass originating in paddocks associated with an idiopathic disease of Canadian wapiti and wapiti-red deer hybrids characterized by “ill thrift” and liver dysfunction. Four of 40 samples contained 1, 3, 6, and 9 ppm (micrograms per gram) of FB1 and 4, 0.5, 2, and 0.5 ppm, respectively, of the methyl ester of FB1. Analyses were done by ion spray mass spectrometry and confirmed by both fast atom bombardment (solids probe) and mass spectral analysis by electron impact ionization of the trifluoroacetate derivative of the base hydrolyzed product (pentolamine) of FB1. This article contains the first report of the presence of fumonisin B1 in grass.
Microcomputers in Applied Settings: The Example of Urban Planning

Two models of the diffusion of computer use and the use of more sophisticated social science methodology in applied settings are posited: Top-down diffusion involves the spread of sophisticated techniques from larger to smaller agencies, while grass-roots diffusion involves the gradual upgrading of methods used in a wider range of settings. Possible examples of the role of microcomputers in fostering both types of diffusion in urban planning are described. The two models imply different kinds of computer training for professionals.
Synthesis of Hard Real-Time Application Specific Systems

This paper presents a system level approach for the synthesis of hard real-time multitask application specific systems. The algorithm takes into account task precedence constraints among multiple hard real-time tasks and targets a multiprocessor system consisting of a set of heterogeneous off-the-shelf processors. The optimization goal is to select a minimal cost multi-subset of processors while satisfying all the required timing and precedence constraints. There are three design phases: resource allocation, assignment, and scheduling. Since the resource allocation is a search for a minimal cost multi-subset of processors, we adopted an A* search based technique for the first synthesis phase. A variation of the force-directed optimization technique is used to assign a task to an allocated processor. The final scheduling of a hard-real time task is done by the task level scheduler which is based on Earliest Deadline First (EDF) scheduling policy. Our task level scheduler incorporates force-directed scheduling methodology to address the situations where EDF is not optimal. The experimental results on a variety of examples show that the approach is highly effective and efficient.
Methyl p‐Toluenethiosulfonate

[4973-66-4] C8H10O2S2 (MW 202.32) InChI = 1S/C8H10O2S2/c1-7-3-5-8(6-4-7)12(9,10)11-2/h3-6H,1-2H3 InChIKey = YSAGJMNZJWNJOL-UHFFFAOYSA-N (methylsulfenylating agent for formation of useful intermediates which have many applications) Alternate Name: methyl thiotosylate. Physical Data: mp 58 °C. Form Supplied in: white solid. Preparative Method: prepared by methylation of sodium p-toluenethiosulfonate with Dimethyl Sulfate (65%).2
The effect of uremic serum on normal human and guinea pig lymphocytes.

SummaryIncubation of normal 51Cr-labeled human and guinea pig lymphocytes with uremic serum or guanidinosuccinic acid did not cause an increase in 51Cr release. Electron microscopic examination of these lymphocytes revealed no abnormalities. It is suggested that the lymphocytopenia of uremia is not due to increased destruction of cells but may be a result of redistribution to other body compartments.
Forest soils adjacent to urban interstates: Soil physical and chemical properties, heavy metals, disturbance legacies, and relationships with woody vegetation

While urban ecology is an expanding field of study, some natural areas within the urban environment remain under-examined. These include naturally regenerating forest communities adjacent to urban interstates. In addition, the status of interstate soils and their relationships with the community composition of forested interstate verges has received little ecological study. The purpose of this study was to examine variation in soil conditions along forested interstate corridors in Louisville, KY and to explore the extent to which soil characteristics (e.g., bulk density, pH) and heavy metals (e.g., Pb, Zn) vary with respect to three factors: interstate (e.g., traffic density), surrounding urban environment (e.g., industrial land use), and interstate construction legacies. Additionally, we explored the relationships between several edaphic factors and woody vegetation structure in these forested verges. We found that the degree and direction of the slope of land towards the interstate and the distance to the interstate pavement were strong determinants of soil characteristics and heavy metal concentrations, suggesting that the movement of de-icing salts, heavy metals, and other pollutants from the interstate was important in determining forest soil conditions along urban interstates. Since within our study area these highways did not extend into rural lands, variation in urban land uses and cover within 26 km of the city center was not large enough to explain variation in soil characteristics or heavy metals, except for a positive correlation between chromium and surrounding industrial land use. We did find that past physical soil disturbance caused by interstate construction (e.g., imported fill) left an important legacy on soil characteristics, heavy metal retention, and woody plant growth patterns in forests adjacent to urban interstates. The legacy of interstate construction on the current forest community structure (e.g., lower species richness) and the future forest (e.g., reduced tree regeneration) may further alter ecosystem productivity and ecosystem services provided by these forests and their soils.
Carbon nanotubes as the sorbent for integrating μ-solid phase extraction within the needle of a syringe

Abstract In this research we report the implementation of micro-solid-phase extraction (μ-SPE) in the needle of a syringe for integrating sampling, analyte enrichment and sample introduction into a single device. Both single- and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were explored as high performance sorbents for μ-SPE in packed and self assembled formats. The need for such a sorbent was critical because the needle probe could hold only a small amount of material (around 300 μg). Conventional C-18 and self-assembled CNTs were found to be ineffective with enrichment factors less than one. However, packed beds of CNTs were found to be excellent sorbent phases, where high extraction efficiencies (as high as 27%) as well as enrichment factors (close to 7) could be achieved. The overall method showed excellent linearity, reproducibility, and low method detection limit (0.1–3 ng/mL for MWNTs). The sorption on CNTs followed Freundlich isotherms, and the functionalized CNTs were more effective for enriching the polar compounds.
The Sentential Calculus Using Rule of Inference R e .

Axiomatizations of the sentential calculus which use R mp ( modus ponens ), have been shown equivalent to axiomatizations similar in all respects except that R mp is replaced by the less restricted rule R e ( rule of excision ) 1 : R e . If S and (…(S⊃S') …), then (… S' …).
Evolving internship issues in school psychology preparation

Current issues relevant to school psychology internships are reviewed. The movement toward professional competencies and behavioral benchmarks as they relate to school psychology internships is discussed, with a concentration on American Psychological Association and National Association of School Psychologists standards. Given the emphasis on observable outcomes and assessment of competencies, implications specific to the internship year at both the specialist and doctoral levels are considered. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
WE‐E‐BRB‐01: Impact Or No Impact of Respiratory Motion On Helical Tomotherapy Dose Delivery

Purpose: In this work, the dosimetric consequences of respiratory motion on helical tomotherapy (HT) treatment delivery are comprehensively investigated. The dependence of dose errors on respiratory‐motion parameters: amplitude, period, phase, and motion direction is examined. The impact of characteristic breathing‐motion induced offsets and drifts on dose errors is also scrutinized, and the influence of target margin and field size on the results evaluated. Method and Materials:Treatment delivery into a moving patient was simulated by incorporating synthetic motion data in the HT dose calculation engine, which includes all relevant treatment dynamics such as MLC opening times, gantry rotation, and couch translations. This allowed for a realistic evaluation of the dosimetric sensitivity of over 12 HT plans (3 margins, 2 field sizes, two clinical lungcancer cases), retrospectively. The prescription dictated a minimum dose of 50 Gy delivered to 95% of the planning target volume (PTV). Results: For PTV equal to the internal target volume (ITV) (which, takes only breathing motion amplitude into account), the results show that mean regular breathing amplitudes engender GTV D95% errors less than 1.5 %, regardless of period, phase or motion direction. Meanwhile, average practical offsets generate less than 3.6 % GTV D95% errors. Results also show that for SI breathing motion, the GTV D95% dose error is virtually the same regardless of margin size. If the gantry period to breathing period ratio is an integer, GTV (or PTV) dose errors may sometimes be sensitive to the breathing phase. Overall, the dose error magnitude is plan specific, increases with increase in amplitude, offset or drift, and depends on motion direction and field size.Conclusion: The dosimetric impact of respiratory motion on HT treatment delivery is plan specific. However, for non phase‐sensitive plans with PTV equal ITV, average regular breathing motion and offsets engender insignificant dosimetric consequences.
Microarray analysis of hepatic gene expression in gallstone-susceptible and gallstone-resistant mice

Cholesterol gallstone disease affects 40 million Americans, and evidence indicates that there is a genetic component to human gallstone disease. In a mouse model of gallstone formation, where mice are fed a lithogenic diet, QTL analysis has been employed to identify the Lith 1 locus on Chromosome (Chr) 2. In order to identify genes in which the difference in expression is independent of factors other than strain-specific genotype, we employed microarray analysis of hepatic gene expression in gallstone-susceptible (C57L/J) and gallstone-resistant (AKR/J) mice. We observed 57 genes with consistent differential expression between C57L/J and AKR/J mice, including many cytochrome, antioxidant, and lipid peroxidation genes. Analysis of differentially expressed genes identified numerous genes involved in fatty acid metabolism. Northern analysis of selected lipid metabolic genes further confirmed the strain-specific differential expression. Literature searches of common regulatory elements within antioxidant systems identified the nuclear transcription factor Nrf2, which maps to the Lith 1 loci. Hepatic Nrf2 gene and protein expression is also increased in strain AKR/J, compared with C57L/J mice, identifying Nrf2 as a putative Lith 1 gallstone gene. These data indicate that microarray analysis may complement QTL analysis to identify systems of regulation and genotypic differences responsible for polygenic diseases.
Late Life Love and Intimacy.

Aging is a complex process that involves factors such as cultural, ethnic, and gender differences and is unique to each individual. Love, sexual intimacy, and sexuality are characteristics that help define individuals and often contribute to how well they will continue to live and age. Enhanced knowledge and healthy attitudes about sexual needs and feelings of older adults living in the community or in long term care settings may help to dispel negative myths, stereotypes, and self-fulfilling attitudes in older adults and in the general public. This awareness will support the perception that full sexual expression is part of the entire extent of adulthood.
40 GHz Adiabatic Soliton Compression of a Mach- Zehnder Modulator Output in a Dispersion Decreasing Fiber with High SBS Threshold

Without using any additional SBS suppression means, 40 GHz 33% RZ pulse train generated by external modulation of a DFB laser diode output was successfully compressed to high-quality 1.3 ps transform-limited soliton pulses using adiabatic soliton compression in 5.45 km long DDF with high SBS threshold. Using the same fiber, as short as 870 fs low-pedestal soliton pulses were produced by higher-order soliton pulse compression.
Computer aided program design experiments: diagrammatic versus textual material

An experiment was conducted to determine if using a computer aided diagrammatic approach to design offered advantages to undergraduate students in the several stages of preparing and implementing programs. Results were obtained which favored the use of a computer aided diagrammatic tool. The greatest benefit was realized in the later stages of coding and implementation rather than in the design stage itself. Overall, the diagrammatic classes completed assignments in 27% less time than the classes using a textual approach without any measurable loss of quality. The research was a joint effort of the Naval Surface Warfare Center and Mary Washington College.
Long-term results of subperiosteal implants combined with cancellous bone grafts

Abstract Twenty-three subperiosteal implants combined with cancellous bone grafts were done at the University of Washington over a four-year period. A modification of the original technique as used with 19 of the patients is described, as well as the follow-up evaluation. The greatest problem occurred at the mucosal-metal junction, resulting in multiple infections and some failures. This technique appears to be comparable with the simple subperiosteal implant but not significantly better.
Distribution of venous remodeling in exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage of horses follows reported blood flow distribution in the equine lung.

Exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH), which has been reported in humans and a variety of domestic animals following strenuous exercise, is most often documented in racehorses. Remodeling of...
Integration of finite element and boundary element methods for calculating the radiated sound from a randomly excited structure

Abstract In this work, boundary element methods and finite element methods are combined with stochastic analysis to calculate noise radiated from a structure subjected to random excitation. A simply supported plate excited by a turbulent boundary layer flow is used to illustrate the developed technology. The auto and cross power spectral terms of the boundary layer are considered for prescribing the excitation. The development is validated through comparison of the numerical results with analytical results and test data available in literature.
Attribute expression of basement faulting : Time versus depth migration

The usual focus of seismic exploration for hydrocarbons is to directly image structural, stratigraphic, and diagenetic features in the “soft” sedimentary sequence. However, understanding the geologic processes that gave rise to these shallow features often requires an understanding of the structural deformation of the more “rigid” basement. In the Fort Worth Basin of north Texas, the end product is usually prestack time-migrated sections which indicate that shallow faulting may be basement-controlled. However, there is some doubt as to whether the collapse features in the sedimentary section are controlled by what appear to be rhombochasms in the basement, or whether these rhombochasms are a velocity push-down artifact caused by infill of the collapse features by a slower velocity material. The goal of this study is to improve the image quality of such basement features by the use of more interpreter-driven detailed velocity analysis and depth versus time migration.
Coherent district reform: A case study of two California school districts

AbstractThe purpose of this paper is to enhance our understanding of districts that are implementing sustainable professional learning in data-driven decision-making (DDDM) to improve student achievement. The data-informed leadership framework, comprised of leadership practices that acknowledge the complexities that play into data use, guided the inquiry. Data collection included semi-structured interviews, observations, and documents. I argue that whole district reform is possible in ways that increased student achievement results on standardized tests across these two districts. Findings indicate that the confluence of: a focus on DDDM, systemic and comprehensive professional learning, and distributed leadership led to consistent student achievement gains over a 3–5-year period. This study suggests that sustainable professional learning in DDDM through structures and processes is critical to how district reform takes place to achieve equitable student results.
The Digital Divide and Internet Voting Acceptance

Governments and corporations are increasingly considering the use of the Internet for individuals to cast votes. Yet, not everyone has access to and is comfortable with the use of technology. This is the problem of the digital divide. This study explores the impact of the digital divide on Internet voting (I-voting). A model of I-voting and the digital divide is proposed. The proposed model suggests that age, income, education and frequency of Internet use have an impact on I-voting utilization. To test the model both an online and paper-based version of the survey was administered to a large sample of citizens. The results of multiple linear regressions indicate that age and income (access and skills) have a significant impact on Internet voting. These findings indicate that, like other e-government services, I-voting is subject to the barriers associated with the digital divide, and this digital divide introduces several challenges to government agencies.
Development directions in integrated anesthesia monitoring

The role of monitoring in anesthesia is to provide to the anesthetist with accurate and reliable information about the state of the patient and the anesthesia delivery system upon which clinical decisions can be based. The proliferation of monitoring devices has created new problems and the need for a more coordinated, integrated approach to the development of anesthesia monitoring systems. A discussion is presented of the principles of this approach, which included physical integration, functional integration, and the application of ergonomics and human factors methodologies. >
Potential Antitumor Agents III: Sodium Salts of α-[N]-Heterocyclic Carboxaldehyde Thiosemicarbazones

Sodium salts of four of the most active antineoplastic agents in a series of α-(N)-heterocyclic carboxaldehyde thiosemicarbazones have been prepared as a means of solubilizing for parenteral administration these extremely insoluble compounds. The sodium salt of 1-formylisoquinoline thiosemicarbazone (II) is soluble in non-aqueous vehicles for injection such as propylene glycol, whereas the sodium salts of 5-hydroxy-1-formylisoquinoline thiosemicarbazone (III), 3-hydroxy-2-formylpyridine thiosemicarbazone (IV), and 5-hydroxy-2-formylpyridine thiosemicarbazone (V) are readily soluble in water. Compounds III and IV, at the optimum effective dosage regimens, caused a greater prolongation of the survival time of mice bearing the L1210 lymphoma than did the parent derivatives, while II and V produced antineoplastic activity against sarcoma 180 and the L1210 lymphoma, respectively, equivalent to that of the parent compounds.
Serial Prostate Biopsies are Associated With an Increased Risk of Erectile Dysfunction in Men With Prostate Cancer on Active Surveillance

Purpose: We determined whether serial prostate needle biopsies predispose men to erectile dysfunction and/or lower urinary tract symptoms over time.Materials and Methods: Men with prostate cancer on an active surveillance protocol were administered the 5-item Sexual Health Inventory for Men and International Prostate Symptom Score questionnaires on protocol entry, and at a cross-sectional point in 2008. All men had at least 1, 10 to 12-core prostate biopsy at protocol entry and yearly surveillance biopsies thereafter were recommended.Results: Of 333 men 231 returned the followup questionnaires. Correlations were found between biopsy number and erectile dysfunction, with increasing biopsy number associated with a decrease in Sexual Health Inventory for Men score (p = 0.04) and a history of 3 or more biopsies associated with a greater decrease in Sexual Health Inventory for Men score than after 2 or fewer biopsies (p = 0.02). Multivariable analysis for biopsy number, age, prostate volume and prostate specif...
Discovering plausible energy and economic futures under global change using multidimensional scenario discovery

The use of scenarios has proven valuable for global change analysis as a means for organizing and communicating information about uncertain future socioeconomic conditions. A small group of well-defined scenarios can provide a set of standard reference cases for assessing the performance of candidate policies under alternative futures. However, traditional methods of defining scenarios may yield storylines that do not align well with the capabilities of downstream models. It can also be difficult to assess whether the number and scope of constructed scenarios most effectively cover the space of possible outcomes. Model-based methods of 'scenario discovery' have recently been proposed that apply statistical data-mining algorithms to a large number of model simulations to identify regions of the stochastic parameter space that lead to unacceptable policy performance. These regions then delineate practically relevant and internally consistent 'discovered scenarios'. To distinguish 'acceptable' from 'unacceptable' policy outcomes, existing methods require pre-specification of a threshold value on a single performance metric. We believe this requirement may present a barrier when decision-makers hold differing views on the relative importance of multiple policy objectives. Therefore, we describe a scenario discovery method that is multidimensional in the outcome space, thus precluding the need for users to agree on a single performance threshold or set of tradeoff weights. We demonstrate application of our approach to the results of ENGAGE, an agent-based model (ABM) of economic growth, energy technology, and carbon emissions. We believe that scenario discovery can add particular value to agent-based modeling, as ABMs typically generate a wider array of possible futures than aggregate-scale models. For this reason, a systematic method for sorting through the many stochastic model simulations to identify policy vulnerabilities and opportunities is essential. We conclude by discussing how our methodology might be applicable to the development of socioeconomic scenarios under the 'representative concentration pathways' (RCP) framework.
Analysis of an offshore medium voltage DC microgrid environment — Part II: Communication network architecture

The microgrid is a conceptual solution proposed as a plug-and-play interface for various types of renewable generation resources and loads. The high-level technical challenges associ- ated with microgrids include (1) operation modes and transitions that comply with IEEE1547 and (2) control architecture and communication. In Part I, the emphasis is on the design of an electrical control architecture for an offshore oil drilling platform powered by wind generation. Engineering a distributed control system having safety critical features, requiring real-time performance is challenging. In this follow-up article we introduce the communication framework for the microgrid scenario under investigation. In all communication networks, scholastic delays and performance are inherent. The only feasible approach is to put bounds on the random processes, qualitatively define the worst cases, and build the distributed control system to be resilient enough to tolerate those behaviors. This is the approach taken by this paper. We propose a communication architecture, discuss performances requirements of the sub-systems, and layout network solutions meeting those specifications. Index Terms—DC Microgrids, Distributed Control Architec- ture, Communication Network Performance and Availability, and Security
Detailed Kinetic Modeling of Conventional Gasoline at Highly Boosted Conditions and the Associated Intermediate Temperature Heat Release

The combustion behavior of conventional gasoline has been numerically investigated by means of detailed chemical-kinetic modeling simulations, with particular emphasis on analyzing the chemistry of the intermediate temperature heat release (ITHR). Previous experimental work on highly boosted (up to 325 kPa absolute) HCCI combustion of gasoline (SAE 2020-01-1086) showed a steady increase in the charge temperature up to the point of hot ignition, even for conditions where the ignition point was retarded well after top dead center (TDC). Thus, sufficient energy was being released by early pre-ignition reactions resulting in temperature rise during the early part of the expansion stroke This behavior is associated with a slow pre-ignition heat release (ITHR), which is critical to keep the engine from misfiring at the very late combustion phasings required to prevent knock at high-load boosted conditions. The experimental results also showed that the amount of ITHR increased with increasing boost and reduced intake temperature. As a result, this experimental work achieved high efficiency (up to 47%) and high power output (up to 16.34 bar IMEPg) without incurring engine knock, and while keeping ultra-low NOx emissions. The ITHR was demonstrated to be fuel dependent as ethanol does not show an increase in the ITHR with boost (2010-01-0338), constraining the combustion timing to be much closer to TDC. The chemistry underlying these phenomena is not yet completely understood. In this numerical study, a chemical-kinetic modeling study of gasoline-fueled boosted HCCI combustion is presented and discussed. A numerical procedure to formulate a gasoline surrogate on the basis of its aromatic, alkene and alkane content and octane indexes was used to match the major properties of the real gasoline. The combustion behavior of this surrogate is modeled using the LLNL mechanism, and the results are compared with the experimental work performed at Sandia. The model successfully reproduces the main aspects of the combustion process shown by the experiments, and it provides insights into the ITHR phenomenon. Finally, a numerical analysis was conducted to explore the chemistry of the ITHR, allowing a correlation between the chemical structure of the fuel and the presence of the ITHR.
Use of allopurinol in preventing hyperuricemia in leukemia and lymphoma

The treatment of leukemia and lymphoma with cytotoxic agents often leads to the overproduction of uric acid due to the rapid breakdown of cellular nucleic acids. This may result in precipitation of uric acid in the urinary tract with severe, sometimes fatal, urinary obstruction. The methods previously available to prevent or treat this complication have not always been adequate. Allopurinol [4–hydroxypyrazolo (3,4–d) pyrimidine] is an inhibitor of xanthine oxidase, the enzyme responsible for the conversion of hypoxanthine and xanthine to uric acid. In man it causes marked inhibition of uric acid production with a decrease in serum and urine uric acid. It has been used in 75 patients with leukemia or lymphoma treated with cytotoxic agents and has consistently prevented or reversed hyperuricemia. No uric acid nephropathy has occurred in this group of patients and allopurinol has caused no significant toxicity. The accumulation of the oxypurines, hypoxanthine and xanthine has been much smaller than the decrease in production of uric acid and no evidence of urinary precipitation of these oxypurines has been seen. The author concludes that allopurinol is an effective and useful agent in reducing the hazard of uric acid nephropathy in patients with leukemias and lymphomas in whom rapid lysis of cells may be expected as a result of therapy.
The Evolution of a University/Inner-City School Partnership A Case Study Account

The factors that hindered and facilitated the development of a collaborative partnership between a university and inner-city public school are described using ethinographic and interview data sources. The main deterrents to the partnership's success included differences in the perception of project goals by university and school staff and the many unscheduled changes at the school site and with project participants. At the end of the first school year, positive outcomes included the development of innovative teaching strategies and collaborative relationships among the teaching staff as well as improvements in the university teacher training program. The authors suggest that partnership is a developmental process and that each proposed partniership be studied closely to determine what strategies will most likely effect change given the parameters of the situation.
The Regional Journal in Sociology: Recent Trends and Observations

We investigate the historical trajectories of several sociological journals published by regional associations, focusing our attention on one of the first regional journals published by the Pacific Sociological Association, Sociological Perspectives. We begin with a discussion of the journal’s origins and look at its professional and geographical development over time. Through a comparative-historical analysis of author affiliations of articles published in regional journals, we find geographic ties are important in shaping the early content of regional journals. However, as time passes, regional ties are stretched to include work from a broadening spectrum of regions and nations. So, while regional sociological journals do appear to maintain their original geographical connections, they also tend to expand their relative geographical influence over time.
A tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor fragment attenuates TNF-alpha- and muramyl dipeptide-induced sleep and fever in rabbits.

It is hypothesized that tumour necrosis factor (TNF) is an endogenous substance involved in sleep responses occurring during bacterial infection. If this hypothesis is correct, then blocking endogenous TNF, using a TNF inhibitor, should attenuate the bacterial cell wall-derived, muramyl dipeptide (MDP)-induced sleep. To test this hypothesis, the effects of intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) injection of a TNF inhibitor, a biologically active fragment of the soluble TNF 55 kDa receptor (TNFRF), on TNF-alpha- and MDP-induced sleep were determined in rabbits. I.c.v. injection of 250 ng human recombinant TNF-alpha- or 150 pmol MDP increased non-rapid-eye-movement sleep (NREMS), decreased rapid-eye-movement sleep (REMS), enhanced electroencephalogram slow-wave activity (SWA) during NREMS and induced fever. Pretreatment of rabbits with 25 micrograms of the TNFRF significantly inhibited TNF-alpha- and MDP-induced sleep and fever responses. Finally, intravenously (i.v.) injected MDP enhanced NREMS, suppressed REMS, enhanced SWA, and induced fever; pretreatment of animals with the TNFRF injected centrally attenuated i.v. MDP-induced sleep responses but not fever. These results suggest that the TNFRF acts as a TNF-alpha antagonist in vivo and support the hypothesis that MDP-induced sleep is partially mediated via brain TNF-alpha.
Orientation and Structure of Pyrazine, Pyrimidine, and Pyridazine in a Lyotropic Liquid Crystal

Abstract High resolution proton magnetic resonance spectra of pyrazine, pyrimidine, and pyridazine partially oriented in a lyotropic mesophase have been obtained and analyzed. The distance ratios calculated from the direct dipole-dipole couplings are compared with those reported for microwave and X-ray studies in the gaseous and solid state as well as those determined from NMR investigations of the above solutes in thermotropic nematic phases. The average orientation of the diazines in the oriented lyotropic phase is such that the applied magnetic field is parallel to the molecular plane. In contrast, the average orientation of benzene, furan, thiophene, p-dithiin, and tetrafluoro-1,3-dithietane is such that the molecular ring is on the average perpendicular to the applied magnetic field. Sine benzene, furan, thiophene, and the diazines orient with the molecular plane parallel to the magnetic field in thermotropic nematic phases, contributions from different orienting factors appear to be operative in the...
North polar cap of Mars: Polar layered deposit characterization and identification of a fundamental climate signal

of the cap (6 10 5 km 2 ) in the 13 images analyzed to date. 3) Assessment of geometric relationships shows that layers are not horizontal, but rather have an apparent dip of approximately 0.5 degrees. We interpret these results as follows: 1) The fundamental 30 m signal is interpreted as a climate signal that may correspond to a 51 kyr insolation cycle. 2) The lateral correlation and broad distribution of these layer sequences strongly imply that layer accumulation processes are widespread across the cap, rather than confined within a single trough or region. 3) Local to regional variability in individual layer thicknesses (and thus accumulation and sublimation rates) is typically less than a factor of 2.5, providing the ability to study regional trends, but often making it difficult to correlate visually the vertical sequences in individual cores. Finally, initial examination of layers located deeper in the stratigraphic sequence within the north polar cap than the 300 m thick Zone 1 provides evidence for a unit less than 100 m thick (Zone 2) in which the fundamental 30 m sequence is not detected. We interpret this as a deposit having formed during a recent high-obliquity phase of Mars, during which time polar volatiles underwent mobilization and were transport equatorward, leaving a polar lag of dust-rich material. The most recent ‘‘ice age’’ (0.5–2 Ma) offers a plausible candidate for this period of ice cap removal and lag deposit formation. An underlying Zone 3 (200 m) contains a dominant 35 m signal, and a lowermost Zone 4 (200 m) contains multiple signals but no dominant one. Together these four zones represent 800 m of vertical stratigraphic section, about one-fourth of the total thickness of the cap. These findings support earlier interpretations that orbital parameter variations could cause significant erosion and possibly complete removal of the polar caps. The interpreted crater retention ages of the layered terrain are consistent with the correlations and vertical sequences described here, suggesting that the polar caps wax and wane throughout geological history, depending on the evolution of orbital parameters. Definition of the 30 m unit signal holds promise for determining 1) the detailed origin of individual layer types, 2) the nature of deposition and sublimation processes and their relation to insolation geometry across the polar cap, and 3) correlation with and comparison to the south polar layered terrain record.
Isolation and Characterization of Pelamis platurus (Yellow-bellied Sea Snake) Postsynaptic Isoneurotoxin

Pelamis platurus (yellow-bellied sea snake) venom contains several neurotoxins, the major toxin, which is most toxic, and two other isotoxins. The second most toxic neurotoxin (Pelamis toxin b) was isolated and characterized. It contains 60 amino acid residues with only one residue difference from the major toxin, Pelamis toxin a. The difference is at the tenth amino acid residue from the acid terminal. The isoelectric point of toxin b is 8.7. Raman spectroscopic examination of toxin b indicates that the toxin contains a considerable amount of antiparallel beta-structure, beta-turn, and random coil without alpha-helix as the amide I band appears at 1673 cm-1 and the amide III band at 1246 cm-1. Circular dichroic studies also indicate a typical beta-sheet structure. The Pelamis toxin b is a typical postsynaptic neurotoxin as it binds to the acetylcholine receptor competitively with a well known toxin, alpha-bungarotoxin. The LD50 of toxin b is 0.185 microgram g-1 in mice by intravenous injection, indicating high toxicity of a postsynaptic neurotoxin.
Migratory Patterns of Wild Chinook Salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha Returning to a Large, Free-Flowing River Basin.

Upriver movements were determined for Chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha returning to the Yukon River, a large, virtually pristine river basin. These returns have declined dramatically since the late 1990s, and information is needed to better manage the run and facilitate conservation efforts. A total of 2,860 fish were radio tagged during 2002–2004. Most (97.5%) of the fish tracked upriver to spawning areas displayed continual upriver movements and strong fidelity to the terminal tributaries entered. Movement rates were substantially slower for fish spawning in lower river tributaries (28–40 km d-1) compared to upper basin stocks (52–62 km d-1). Three distinct migratory patterns were observed, including a gradual decline, pronounced decline, and substantial increase in movement rate as the fish moved upriver. Stocks destined for the same region exhibited similar migratory patterns. Individual fish within a stock showed substantial variation, but tended to reflect the regional pattern. Differences between consistently faster and slower fish explained 74% of the within-stock variation, whereas relative shifts in sequential movement rates between “hares” (faster fish becoming slower) and “tortoises” (slow but steady fish) explained 22% of the variation. Pulses of fish moving upriver were not cohesive. Fish tagged over a 4-day period took 16 days to pass a site 872 km upriver. Movement rates were substantially faster and the percentage of atypical movements considerably less than reported in more southerly drainages, but may reflect the pristine conditions within the Yukon River, wild origins of the fish, and discrete run timing of the returns. Movement data can provide numerous insights into the status and management of salmon returns, particularly in large river drainages with widely scattered fisheries where management actions in the lower river potentially impact harvests and escapement farther upstream. However, the substantial variation exhibited among individual fish within a stock can complicate these efforts.