cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Modified quasilinearization and optimal initial choice of the multipliers part 2—Optimal control problems

This paper considers the problem of extremizing a functionalI which depends on the statex(t), the controlu(t), and the parameter π. The state is ann-vector, the control is anm-vector, and the parameter is ap-vector. At the initial point, the state is prescribed. At the final point, the state and the parameter are required to satisfyq scalar relations. Along the interval of integration, the state, the control, and the parameter are required to satisfyn scalar differential equations. A modified quasilinearization algorithm is developed; its main property is a descent property in the performance indexR, the cumulative error in the constraints and the optimum conditions. Modified quasilinearization differs from ordinary quasilinearization because of the inclusion of a scaling factor (or stepsize) α in the system of variations. The stepsize α is determined by a one-dimensional search so as to ensure the decrease in the performance indexR; this can be achieved through a bisection process starting from α = 1. Convergence is achieved whenR becomes smaller than some preselected value. In order to start the algorithm, some nominal functionsx(t),u(t), π and multipliers λ(t), μ must be chosen. In a real problem, the selection ofx(t),u(t), π can be made on the basis of physical considerations. Concerning λ(t) and μ, no useful guidelines have been available thus far. In this paper, a method for selecting λ(t) and μ optimally is presented: the performance indexR is minimized with respect to λ(t) and μ. Since the functionalR is quadratically dependent on λ(t) and μ, the resulting variational problem is governed by Euler equations and boundary conditions which are linear. Two numerical examples are presented, and it is shown that, if the initial multipliers λ(t) and μ are chosen optimally, modified quasilinearization converges rapidly to the solution. On the other hand, if the initial multipliers are chosen arbitrarily, modified quasilinearization may or may not converge to the solution. From the examples, it is concluded that the beneficial effects associated with the optimal initial choice of the multipliers λ(t) and μ lie primarily in increasing the likelihood of convergence rather than accelerating convergence. However, this optimal choice does not guarantee convergence, since convergence depends on the functional being extremized, the differential constraints, the boundary conditions, and the nominal functionsx(t),u(t), π chosen in order to start the algorithm.
Structural basis of cyclin-dependent kinase activation by phosphorylation.

Cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK)–cyclin complexes require phosphorylation on the CDK subunit for full activation of their Ser/Thr protein kinase activity. The crystal structure of the phosphorylated CDK2–CyclinA–ATPγS complex has been determined at 2.6 A resolution. The phosphate group, which is on the regulatory T-loop of CDK2, is mostly buried, its charge being neutralized by three Arg side chains. The arginines help extend the influence of the phosphate group through a network of hydrogen bonds to both CDK2 and cyclinA. Comparison with the unphosphorylated CDK2–CyclinA complex shows that the T-loop moves by as much as 7 A, and this affects the putative substrate binding site as well as resulting in additional CDK2–CyclinA contacts. The phosphate group thus acts as a major organizing centre in the CDK2–CyclinA complex.
Gifted Programs for the Culturally Different

Gifted learners generally are said to be neglected educationally, but those that are culturally different have their problem compounded, according to this writer. He suggests ways to identify these youngsters and describes the features of the program he believes would be best for them.
Stenting of Aortopulmonary Collaterals in Complex Pulmonary Atresia

Background The optimal treatment of patients with complex pulmonary atresia remains controversial. Surgical unifocalization programs are increasing popular but have not previously or currently gained universal acceptance. Furthermore, not all patients are suitable for attempts at biventricular correction. These patients may become increasingly symptomatic and require palliation. Methods and Results We attempted to palliate 12 patients with progressive symptomatic hypoxemia. Each had at least one stenotic but balloon-dilatable collateral supplying at least three lung segments. It was impossible to traverse the stenotic area with the stent in 1 patient, despite two attempts. Twelve stents were thus deployed in 11 patients. There was no effect in 1 patient who had multiple stenoses distal to the stented area. There was excellent palliation in the remainder, arterial oxygen saturation 45% to 79% before stenting (mean, 64±12%) rising to 67% to 90% (mean, 78±10%, P<.01) at discharge from hospital. One patient w...
Translational Regulation of the DOUBLETIME/CKIδ/ε Kinase by LARK Contributes to Circadian Period Modulation

The Drosophila homolog of Casein Kinase I δ/e, DOUBLETIME (DBT), is required for Wnt, Hedgehog, Fat and Hippo signaling as well as circadian clock function. Extensive studies have established a critical role of DBT in circadian period determination. However, how DBT expression is regulated remains largely unexplored. In this study, we show that translation of dbt transcripts are directly regulated by a rhythmic RNA-binding protein (RBP) called LARK (known as RBM4 in mammals). LARK promotes translation of specific alternative dbt transcripts in clock cells, in particular the dbt-RC transcript. Translation of dbt-RC exhibits circadian changes under free-running conditions, indicative of clock regulation. Translation of a newly identified transcript, dbt-RE, is induced by light in a LARK-dependent manner and oscillates under light/dark conditions. Altered LARK abundance affects circadian period length, and this phenotype can be modified by different dbt alleles. Increased LARK delays nuclear degradation of the PERIOD (PER) clock protein at the beginning of subjective day, consistent with the known role of DBT in PER dynamics. Taken together, these data support the idea that LARK influences circadian period and perhaps responses of the clock to light via the regulated translation of DBT. Our study is the first to investigate translational control of the DBT kinase, revealing its regulation by LARK and a novel role of this RBP in Drosophila circadian period modulation.
Anosmia and hypogeusia in Churg-Strauss syndrome

Churg-Strauss syndrome is a rare disorder that is often misdiagnosed. In this report we describe a 57-year-old man with Churg-Strauss syndrome who presented with symptoms of lessened smell and taste function that occurred approximately 3 months before the onset of his neurological symptoms. Psychophysical testing using a battery of well-validated smell and taste tests revealed that the patient had total anosmia and marked hypogeusia. While one anecdotal report exists in the Spanish literature that alludes to the presence of anosmia in a single case of this syndrome, no further confirmation of such dysfunction has appeared in the literature. These findings support the concept that smell and taste loss may be an early sign of this disorder.
Solubility Properties of the Murine Zona Pellucida

The solubility properties of the zona pellucida surrounding the intact unfertilized murine egg have been investigated. The structural integrity of the zona was shown to be disrupted by several disuffide-bond reducing agents. A correlation was established between the rate of zonae dissolution in mercaptoethanol and the concentration of the sulfhydsyl anion. It was possible to conclude, therefore, that disulfide bonds play a role in maintaining the structural integrity of the murine zona pellucida. The effect of pH on zonae solubility was reinvestigated. Removal of cumulus cells with unbuffered solutions of hyaluronidase or exposure of ova to low pH led to dramatic alterations in the physicochernical properties of the resultant zonae. This study provides the basis for evaluating possible relationships between the occurrence of a zona reaction and changes in the physicochemical properties of the zona pellucida,
Modelling peak shapes obtained by Hough transform

The paper studies peak shapes obtained when using the Hough transform. The work was motivated by the author's finding that Hough transform peaks are sometimes sharper than a priori reasoning would suggest. A mathematical model for the simple case of circle detection has been able to explain this satisfactorily, but the detailed form of the model is somewhat surprising and suggests that high peak sharpness will be a common characteristic of Hough transform peaks.
New Testament Scholarship in Prospect

When, therefore, I am asked to predict fifty years of New Testament scholarship, I must either repent and be serious, or unrepentant, light-hearted, and irresponsibly imaginative. I am still (1959) enough of a liberal to be unable to reject a rational proposition for the sake of a program; so I choose to indulge in wild guesses about the unknowable-without a trace of the professor's usual fear of what the experts in the field may think. In this field there are no experts-a condition that extends academic freedom far beyond its limits in any of our schools.
Assessment of prehospital care and disaster preparedness in a rural Guatemala clinic.

INTRODUCTION: In October 2005, Hurricane Stan impacted Central America, causing severe damage to Guatemala. The main objectives of this study are to report on the effects of Hurricane Stan in rural Guatemala, to assess the responses of a rural clinic during and after the storm, and to identify ways in which the clinic can better prepare for future disasters. The clinic is located in Catarina, San Marcos, Guatemala. Roughly 400-500 patients are attended to each week at the clinic. METHODS: Survey data were obtained during a two-week period using a convenience sample of people at the clinic and in the surrounding community. RESULTS: The major medical problems after the impact of Hurricane Stan included fungal infections, upper respiratory infections, diarrhea, and emotional problems. The most needed supplies included food, electricity, home repair, potable water, communication, and clothing. In the immediate aftermath of event, 61% of the participants could not get to a hospital; however, most did not require medical assistance. CONCLUSIONS: Hurricane Stan had a devastating effect on the San Marcos region of Guatemala. While the clinic could have served as a resource center and a base, it was not prepared to address the community's health needs after the hurricane as there were no previous plans in place for disaster response for the clinic or for the community. Next steps include developing a preparedness plan to utilize the clinic as a local resource center , in the event that the planned national disaster responses are delayed or unable to reach the affected area. Language: en
Incentive efficiency of compensation based on accounting and market performance

Abstract This paper analyzes how earnings and price are used in executive compensation contracts. Risk-averse shareholders collectively design a contract and individually trade in the stock market. In the optimal linear contract the use of earnings and price depends critically on incentive efficiency, i.e., how precisely the measures convey the true outcome. The relative weight of price to earnings exaggerates the true relative importance of price because price impounds traders' overall information while its informational value lies in the incremental information it provides. The use of price allows shareholders to share trading risks with managers.
Digitonide precipitable sterols: a reevaluation with special attention to lanosterol.

The ability of digitonin to precipitate lanosterol from prepared mixtures and biological sources was evaluated. Commercially available lanosterol was determined to be composed of about 60% lanosterol and 40% dihydrolanosterol. Both sterols were only partially precipitated by digitonin under all conditions examined. The presence of cholesterol increased the precipitation of lanosterol, but never to completion. About 40% of the lanosterols from saponified sheep's-wool fat was not precipitated by digitonin. Also14C-labeled lanosterol recovered from rat brain following intracerebral injection of 2-[14C] mevalonate was only 70% precipitated by digitonin. Steric hinderance by the methyl groups at carbon −4 is suggested to explain the poor precipitability of this sterol. In conclusion, lanosterol can not be considered to be a digitonide-precipitable sterol equivalent to cholesterol. Caution should be exercised in situations where digitonin-precipitable sterols are being prepared from sources containing significant concentrations of lanosterol (i.e., mass and/or radiolabel).
The Donald C. & Elizabeth M. Dickinson Research Center at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

AbstractSituated atop Persimmon Hill on Oklahoma City's northeast side, the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Center has spent forty-five years as the crown jewel of the city's attractions. Aside from exhibits featuring world-renowned art works, authentic western memorabilia, and informational displays, researchers and visitors can take advantage of the Donald C. & Elizabeth M. Dickinson Research Center. The archive includes books, serials, films, image collections and more, and curators depend upon this resource in the development of new exhibits. Serials Review learns about the history, materials, and services associated with the Dickinson Research Center.
AIRS observations of deep convective clouds

Large thunderstorms can be identified in the AIRS data as areas where the brightness temperature of the 1231 cm-1 atmospheric window channel in non-polar areas is less than 210 K. Each day about 6000 large thunderstorms are identified, almost exclusively within 30 degrees of the equator. Since the size of the AIRS footprint at nadir is 13.5 km, a brightness temperature of less than 210 K indicates that the top of the anvil of the thunderstorm protrudes well into the tropopause. Such objects are commonly referred to as Deep Convective Clouds (DCC). Our interest in DCC was motivated by the question 'Are severe weather events increasing due to global warming'. Each DCC is a severe weather event, although not on the scale of the much less frequent hurricanes, which can be identified in the AIRS data as clusters of several hundred DCC. The number of DCC per day has been fairly stable over the past four years for the mean of the tropical oceans, but a significant increase can be seen day and night in the Atlantic Ocean. The number of DCC per day shows a strong seasonal and latitudinal dependence, with the peak count lagging the solstice of the latitude zone by about 2 months. The most prominent features in brightness temperature spectra of DCC are due to stratospheric CO2, Ozone and Methane. In the channels with weighting functions below the stratosphere the brightness temperature is typically 205 K, with a characteristic 1 to 2.5 K drop between 1000 and 750 cm-1, equivalent to a 2-4 % drop in emissivity. This is likely due to the presence of cirrus (ice) particles. Some of this analysis of DCC can be extended using past and future operational sounders in polar orbit.
An electron microscopic study of skeletal cell aging. II. The osteocyte.

Abstract An electron microscopic investigation of the distal femoral bone of mice 5, 8, 26, 52 and 104 weeks of age was undertaken to study osteocyte formation and aging. The following major conclusions were drawn from the observations made at the perichondrial zone of the periosteum and metaphyseal trabeculae. Although newly formed osteocytes resembled their active osteoblast precursors for a time, degenerative ultrastructural changes occurred rapidly. This is not to deny the continuing role of osteocytes or their participation in osteolysis, osteoplasis, proteinsynthesis, mucopoly saccharide regulation or mineral homeostasis, for all these activities may occur coincidental with diminishing activity. Degenerative changes in all osteocytes became significantly obvious with increasing age as progressive, irreversible, debilitating age changes occurred and which subsequently lead to death of osteocytes as an end point of the cell's life cycle. Death of osteocytes was rarely observed in 5 and 8 weeks-old mice and occasionally seen at 26. They were noted at 52 weeks and very commonly observed at 104 weeks of age. In young mice, degenerative age changes were, however, not uncommon. In older mice, osteocytes near the bone surfaces also showed considerable degenerative changes. Osteoclastic resorption of lacunar walls resulted in complete cytolysis of osteocytes, save for their nuclei which appear to be entertained by osteoclasts for further digestion. With increasing age the perilacunar walls revealed evidence of repeated phases of osteocytic-osteoclasis and osteocytic-osteoplasis.
The Alzheimer's disease cooperative study prevention instrument project: longitudinal outcome of behavioral measures as predictors of cognitive decline.

Background/Methods: The Alzheimer's Disease Cooperative Study Prevention Instrument Project is a longitudinal study that recruited 644 cognitively healthy older subjects (aged between 75 and 93 years, 58% women) at baseline and evaluated their cognitive change over 4 years. The study was structured like a clinical trial to anticipate a prevention trial and to determine the performance of novel trial instruments in a longitudinal non-interventional trial framework. Behavioral symptoms were assessed at baseline. Results: The existence of participant-reported behavioral symptoms at baseline predicted conversion to Clinical Dementia Rating scale score ≥0.5 over the 4-year period. Conclusions: The results imply that early anxiety and depression may be harbingers of future cognitive decline, and that patients exhibiting such symptoms, even in the absence of co-occurring cognitive symptoms, should be closely followed over time.
Nickel(II) 1,10-Phenanthroline complexes: cis-[Aqua(Bromo) bis (1,10-Phenanthroline)Nickel(II)] Bromide Trihydrate and ( tris (1,10-Phenanthroline)Nickel(II)] Bromide Octahydrate

[Ni(phen)2(H2O)Br]Br·3H2O where phen is 1,10-phenanthroline, is a light-blue material which crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P21/c with Z = 4, a = 10.4300(4), b = 25.310(2), c = 9.7790(9) A and β = 102.932(6)°. The structure was determined at ambient temperature from 5161 reflections with R = 0.0643 and R w = 0.1306. The structure consists of a complex cation, a bromide anion and three waters of hydration. The Ni atom is pseudo-octahedral with a cis arrangement of Br and H2O. This cis geometry persists in solution, as evidenced by 1H NMR spectroscopy, although the Br may be replaced by another H2O. [Ni(phen)3]Br2·8H2O is a light-red material which crystallizes in the monoclinic space group C2/m with Z = 8, a = 23.6320(11), b = 21.4880(13), c = 15.5470(9) A and β = 107.927(3)°. The structure was determined at 120 K from 6820 reflections with R = 0.0733 and R w = 0.1022. The structure consists of a complex cation, two bromide anions and eight waters of hydration. The anions and waters are extensiv...
The fusion of 12C and 16O with 28,29,30Si

Abstract Complete fusion cross sections have been measured for the systems 12 C and 16 O + 28,29,30 Si in the energy ranges 20 MeV ⩽ E 12 C 49 MeV and 21 MeV ⩽ E 16 O ⩽ 61 MeV . Weak structure is observed in the 12 C + 28 Si excitation function while the remaining five systems exhibit an energy dependence which is consistent with smooth behavior. Maximum fusion cross sections for 12 C + 28 Si and 16 O + 28 Si are measured to be ≈ 1000 mb while those for 29,30 Si peak at ≈ 1200 mb. Data have been analyzed in terms of the Bass model and the model of Glas and Mosel.
2.30 Transcriptional Inhibition: Mechanism of Action for CDK Inhibitors in CLL to Overcome Microenvironment-Mediated Protection

Thr183-Tyr185 (p 0.013), belonging to the MAP Kinase signaling pathway, and GSK-3alpha/beta Ser21-9 (p 0.0018) and DVL3 (p 0.04), both responsible for the maintenance of an active -catenin signalling. UM but not M CLL cells also displayed significant linkages between ERK1/2 Thr202-Tyr204, p90 RSK Ser380, and MEK1/2 Ser 217-221 (rho 0.5, p 0.002 in all comparisons), all proteins belonging to the MAP Kinase signaling pathway, thus reflecting an activated proliferation profile in this CLL subset. Conclusion: Overall, the results obtained suggest that specific signaling pathways are constitutively active in circulating CLL cells, particularly if they express CD49d, CD38 and an UM IGHV gene mutational status. This suggests a constitutive receptor engagement by CD49d/BCR-specific ligands allegedly present in blood/plasma. Experiments aimed at investigating the phosphoproteomic profiles of CLL cells whose surface receptors are engaged by specific ligands and/or autologous plasma components are currently ongoing.
EXPERT: expedited simulation exploiting program behavior repetition

Studying program behavior is a central component in architectural designs. In this paper, we study and exploit one aspect of program behavior, the behavior repetition, to expedite simulation. Detailed architectural simulation can be long and computationally expensive. Various alternatives are commonly used to simulate a much smaller instruction stream to evaluate design choices: using a reduced input set or simulating only a small window of the instruction stream. In this paper, we propose to reduce the amount of detailed simulation by avoiding simulating repeated code sections that demonstrate stable behavior. By characterizing program behavior repetition and use the information to select a subset of instructions for detailed simulation, we can significantly speed up the process without affecting the accuracy. In most cases, simulation time of full-length SPEC CPU2000 benchmarks is reduced from hundreds of hours to a few hours. The average error incurred is only about 1% or less for a range of metrics.
Stereological analysis of developing sarcotubular membranes

Stereological methods have been used to estimate the volume and surface densities of SR and T-tubules during the development of chicken pectoralis muscle fibers. Striking changes in the morphology of the SR and T-tubules occur during development: these changes are accompanied by significant changes in the volume and surface densities of these components. Comparisons are made with data, obtained from the literature, on other species. Comparisons are also made between fragmented SR and the SR of whole muscle. It is concluded that the surface density of the SR is an important determinant of its adult morphology.
Affirming Flames: Debriefing Survivors of the World Trade Center Attack

of four commercial airliners and the collapse of the World Trade Center (WTC). This article describes the immediate responses of survivors of the WTC, based on group debriefings and individual crisis intervention sessions held 2 to 3 weeks after the initial event. There is a brief discussion about critical incident stress debriefings followed by a consideration of who needed help and how mental health disaster organizations attempted to organize responses. The “security zone” nearby the site of the WTC is described and the experiences and reactions of survivors are shared. There is a recommendation for national accrediting of training and licensing of mental health disaster responders. [Brief Treatment and Crisis Intervention 2:85–94 (2002)]
Torsional mode frequency and elastic anisotropy in alkali vermiculites

The torsional mode frequency ωt in Cs1−xRbx-Vermiculite has been determined using an angular force constant model and a virtual crystal approximation. The sensitivity of ωt has been examined with respect to the force constants between the Kagome' oxygen frame and the interlayer cations. These force constants were used to calculate the longitudinal elastic constants, C11 and C33 and are consistent with the observed elastic anisotropy in related layer silicates. The observed nonlinear x-dependence of the torsional mode frequency in ternary systems can be related to the polarizability of the interlayer cations (Cs+,Rb+).
Autonomous software-defined coherent optical receivers

A new architecture for software-defined coherent intradyne optical receivers that autonomously identifies and decodes OOK, BPSK, QPSK and 16-QAM formats is demonstrated. Experimental 1056km transmission data are decoded without penalty.
Complications of radiation therapy: The genitourinary tract

ADIATION R effects on normal tissue are inherent in the radiation treatment of patients with cancer. The aim of the radiation therapist is to achieve the highest possible cure rate with the lowest possible complication rate; to avoid these complications entirely would mean lowering the cure rate. Radiation effects may be acute, occurring during the course of treatment, or subacute or chronic, arising months or years after treatment has been completed. One of the basic problems the clinician and radiologist face is to differentiate radiation effect from recurrence of cancer. The anatomic areas covered in this paper include the kidneys, ureters, bladder, male and female genital tracts, and the embryo and fetus. The clinical conditions include lymphoma and neuroblastoma; cancer of the cervix, uterus, ovary, kidney, bladder, prostrate, and rectosigmoid; and vertebral body and spinal cord tumors. The ovary, testis, embryo, and fetus may also be irradiated inadvertently during diagnositc radiologic examination or radioisotope study.
Sequence of the S gene from a virulent British field isolate of transmissible gastroenteritis virus

Subgenomic mRNA from a virulent field isolate of porcine transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV), strain FS772/70, was used to produce cDNA. The cDNA from three overlapping clones was sequenced by the chain termination method and two open reading frames (ORFs) were identified. The largest ORF, 4350bp, encoded a polypeptide of 1449 amino acids of relative molecular mass (Mr) 159811, which contained 33 potential N-linked glycosylation sites, a cysteine-rich region, and a potential transmembrane region. The C-terminal half of this ORF showed homology to the S proteins of four other coronaviruses. The other ORF consisted of the 3'-end of a gene with homology to the carboxyl terminus of the F2 subunit of infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) RNA polymerase.
Does lymph node ratio impact survival in resected periampullary malignancies

Abstract Background Lymph node ratio (LNR) has been associated with long-term survival in patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma; however, this has not been demonstrated in other periampullary malignancies. The purpose of this study was to determine if LNR is associated with survival in other periampullary malignancies. Methods A retrospective review of a prospective database of 522 pancreaticoduodenectomies (PDs) performed between 1988 and 2007 was undertaken. Clinicopathologic data were collected, and LNR was calculated. Patients with positive lymph node (LN) status were placed into the following groups: (1) LNR = 0; (2) LNR ≤0.2; (3) LNR ≤0.4; and (4) LNR >0.4. Results Of the 364 malignancies identified, there were 219 (60%) pancreatic adenocarcinomas, 36 (10%) duodenal adenocarcinomas, 75 (21%) ampullary adenocarcinomas, and 35 (10%) cholangiocarcinomas. Positive LN status affected patient survival in all malignancies studied. Increasing LNR is associated with decreased survival in PA ( P = .03) and AA ( P = .04). Conclusions Positive LN status in all patients with periampullary malignancies is associated with worse survival rates than in those with no evidence of disease. LNR is inversely associated with survival rates in pancreatic and ampullary adenocarcinoma patients.
Lung CuZn-Superoxide Dismutase and Catalase Gene Expression in Premature Rabbits Treated Intratracheally with Antioxidant-Surfactant Liposomes

Tolerance to hyperoxia usually depends on an increase in lung antioxidant enzyme activity. Antioxidant-surfactant liposomes, encapsulating the antioxidant enzymes CuZn-superoxide dismutase (CuZnSOD) and catalase in synthetic surfactant lipids, increase lung antioxidant activity following intratracheal instillation in premature and term rabbits. We investigated whether the exogenous antioxidant enzymes encapsulated in these liposomes inhibit the endogenous antioxidant enzyme synthesis in the premature rabbit lung. Premature rabbits, delivered at 28 days of gestation, were treated intratracheally with antioxidant-surfactant liposomes, surfactant liposomes without antioxidant enzymes, or air placebo at birth and exposed to hyperoxia for 24 h. A comparison group was killed after breathing room air at birth. The right lungs of the pups were assayed for CuZnSOD and catalase activities and DNA content, the left lungs of the same pups were used to quantitate the concentrations of CuZnSOD and catalase mRNA using cRNA probes. Lung CuZnSOD and catalase mRNA quantities increased during exposure to hyperoxia, but were not affected by exogenous antioxidant enzymes. These data suggest that intratracheal instillation of CuZnSOD and catalase does not down-regulate mRNA transcription of these antioxidant enzymes in the premature rabbit lung.
Medicare psychiatric admissions, 1987-2004: does the past offer insights for the future?

In 2005, Medicare implemented a new prospective payment system (PPS) for inpatient psychiatric facilities (IPFs). Analysis of Medicare psychiatric inpatient claims for 1987–2004 provides insights into future experience after implementation. Growth in the under-age-sixty-five disabled population was the dominant factor driving growth in psychiatric admissions. However, from 1987 until the late 1990s, there was a noteworthy increase in the use rate among the older elderly. In the future, growth of the beneficiary population will be especially important for the elderly. How the use rate responds is likely to depend on supply responses to financial incentives inherent in Medicare payment policy.
Systematic study of anisotropic transport and magnetic properties of RAgSb2 (R=Y, La–Nd, Sm, Gd–Tm)

Abstract Anisotropic measurements of the magnetic and transport properties have been performed on high-quality single crystals of the RAgSb2 series of compounds with R=Y, La–Nd, Sm, Gd–Tm. For most of these compounds, strong magnetic anisotropies, created by crystalline electric field (CEF) splitting of the Hund's rule ground state, confine the moments to the basal plane. Additional anisotropy within the basal plane is also observed in DyAgSb2, leading to a series of metamagnetic transitions. All of the compounds order antiferromagnetically at low temperatures except for the nonmagnetic compounds LaAgSb2 and YAgSb2 and the ferromagnetic compound CeAgSb2. For R=Y, La–Nd, and Sm clear de Haas–van Alphen oscillations in fields as low as 30 kOe and at temperatures as high as 25 K can be measured. Throughout the series, the low-temperature transverse magnetoresistance is large [Δρ(H)/ρ(0)≈60 in SmAgSb2 at 55 kOe] and deviates strongly from quadratic behavior with field the dependence of Δρ(H)/ρ(0) ranging between H0.8 and H1.5.
Deterioration mechanism of the carbon-plastic electrode of the Zn-Br2 battery

Abstract The reactivity of bromine with graphite and polyethylene was studied to clarify the deterioration mechanism of the carbon plastic (CP) electrode of the ZnBr 2 battery. At first, intercalation of bromine in highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG) was conducted in aqueous solution. Stages 2, 3, 4, and 5 bromine-graphite intercalation compounds (Br 2 -GICs) were obtained in 19−3,2.9−0.8, 0.8−0.65, and 0.5 mol/1 Br 2 solutions, respectively, and analysed based on a linear diffusion theory. Apparent diffusion coefficients were found to be governed by the final stage structure. Bromine-GICs were electrochemically synthesised and decomposed in 3 mol/l ZnBr 2 solution. Bromine-GICs were ascertained to be generated and decomposed during charge/discharge cycles of the Zn-Br 2 battery. Repeated reaction of Br 2 with pyrolytic graphite (PG), polyethylene (PE), and CP led to C-Br bond formation, along with exfoliation and cracking on the surface. Consequently, this reaction must be the reason for the mechanical deterioration of the CP electrode in the Zn-Br 2 battery.
Function of prefrontal cortex in timing behavior of monkeys.

Three groups of monkeys—with prefrontal lobectomy, cingulectomy, and normal controls—were trained on the DRL operant conditioning schedule. Lever presses by the subjects resulted in food reward, provided no response was made during a predetermined delay period. Subjects were first trained on a 10-sec delay to the criterion of 50% rewarded responses in three consecutive sessions. The delay was then lengthened by steps of 5 sec to a maximum of 70 sec. All subjects met criterion on delays as long as 25 sec. On longer delay settings subjects in each group failed to meet criterion. During the course of training, subjects reduced their response rates and responded with unimodal interresponse time distributions during criterion sessions, with mean interresponse times near the delay settings. The findings that prefrontally ablated and cingulectomized monkeys were unimpaired in reducing their response rates and in developing timing responses are contrary to the hypotheses that frontal lobes are essential to the inhibition of responses, recent memory, or temporal patterning of behavior.
Leaching of polyphase nuclear waste ceramics: microstructural and phase characterization

The leaching of complex polyphase nuclear waste ceramics is described in the context of the geochemically established dissolution behavior of the constituent phases. Static leach tests conducted on ceramic monoliths in deionized water, in simulated silicate, and in brine groundwaters, conforming to Materials Characterization Center standards and an accelerated, microscopic leach test, were used to identify the processes. Dissolution and formation of surface passivation layers are discussed in terms of hydrolysis and the adsorption of the metal hydroxocomplexes onto the monolith surface. The factors observed to affect dissolution are pertinent to the leaching of other polyphase nuclear waste ceramics. 11 figures, 1 table.
Self-Monitoring With a Twist: Using Cell Phones to CellF-Monitor On-Task Behavior

Self-monitoring is regarded throughout the literature as an effective classroom intervention. Researchers have used self-monitoring interventions to improve school-related behavior of students with varying disabilities across a variety of settings. Although research supports the use of self-monitoring, traditional self-monitoring techniques may be unappealing to students and inefficient for use in the classroom. Cell phones hold great promise for increasing the acceptability and efficiency of self-monitoring interventions. The purpose of this article is to describe a self-monitoring technique that incorporates cell phones and text messages. We provide step-by-step instructions for setting up and implementing CellF-Monitoring in a classroom.
Accumulation of secretory granules in pituitary clonal cells derived from the epithelium of Rathke's pouch.

2A8 clonal cells derived from the epithelium of Rathke's pouch of the fetal rat are essentially agranular when grown in vitro, in spite of their active secretion of hormones, i.e., ACTH, prolactin and growth hormone. These cells do not produce detectable amounts of thyrotrophic or gonadotrophic hormones in vitro. When the growth medium (Ham's F10) was supplemented with rat median eminence extract (MEE), l-thyroxin and fresh serum from hypophysectomized rats, some of the 2A8 cells accumulated and stored secretory granules which were characteristic of the cells of the intact pituitary gland. Typical thyrotrophic and gonadotrophic cells also became recognizable and all six anterior pituitary hormones were released into the culture medium. Growth of 2A8 cells in this modified culture medium resulted in an increased production of all hormones with increasing time in culture.
Cytomatrix protein residence times differ significantly between the tract and the terminal segments of optic axons.

Abstract The window method of radiolabeled protein analysis was used to study the transport kinetics of axonally transported cytomatrix proteins as they move through segments of mouse optic axons. Three slow component b (SCb) proteins — actin, a 30 kDa protein, and clathrin — were radiolabeled in the eye and were followed for up to 119 days by quantitative one-dimensional gel electrophoresis. These proteins appeared first in the optic nerve, next in the tract, and last in the superior colliculus. All of the radiolabeled proteins had passed through the optic axons and had been effectively removed from the terminals by 119 days. Two different axonal segments (‘windows’) were examined in detail: a segment of the axon shaft region in the optic tract, and a segment of axon terminal region in the midbrain superior colliculus. The median transmit times of the 3 proteins were 53–100% longer in the colliculus than in the tract, and the pulse transients (the total area under the transport curve in each window) were 180–350% larger in the colliculus than in the tract. These results indicate that at least certain cytomatrix and cytoskeletal proteins have longer residence times in the terminal regions than in the axon proper.
Preserved salivary output and xerostomia-related quality of life in head and neck cancer patients receiving parotid-sparing radiotherapy

Radiotherapy (RT) for head and neck cancers causes salivary dysfunction and diminished xerostomia-related quality of life. We have demonstrated that three-dimensional treatment planning and conformational dose-delivery techniques can minimize RT doses to contralateral parotid glands while providing therapeutic doses to tumors. This study's purpose was to assess parotid salivary function up to 1 year post-RT in patients receiving bilateral neck parotid-sparing RT, and to determine if parotid preservation would significantly improve xerostomia-related quality of life. Unstimulated (UPFR) and stimulated (SPFR) parotid flow rates were collected from 20 head and neck cancer patients. All subjects completed a 15-item xerostomia-related quality of life scale (XeQoLS) prior to RT, at the completion of RT, 1, 3, 6 and 12 months post-RT. Salivary flow rates from spared and treated glands were significantly decreased at the completion of RT. After RT completion, spared UPFR and SPFR function increased and was not significantly different from baseline values. Output from treated glands remained statistically indistinguishable from zero throughout the post-RT period. Subjects had a significantly worse xerostomia-related quality of life at the completion of RT compared to baseline, and XeQoLS responses improved significantly 1 month post-RT. Responses at 1 year were markedly better than at the completion of RT, but still significantly worse than baseline. These findings suggest that despite parotid-sparing RT, salivary flow rates from treated and spared glands and xerostomia-related quality of life decrease at the completion of RT. However, with the use of parotid-sparing RT, contralateral glands are preserved at 1 year post-RT with a concomitant improvement in xerostomia-related quality of life.
Evolutionary computation for database marketing

This paper examines the use of evolutionary computation (EC) techiques, like genetic algorithms and genetic programmes, for data mining and, more specifically, to address problems in database marketing. Beginning with a brief introduction to the basics of genetic search, it provides an overview of two general application areas in database marketing where EC offers distinct advantages: the development of models optimised to specific targeting depths, and models that simultaneously optimise on multiple objectives.
The Theological Relevance of Addressing Caretaker Needs in Cases of Family Elder Abuse

ABSTRACT Family elder abuse/neglect is significant contemporary problem. Although social attention is being given to the needs of the victims, this paper explores the possible theological relevance of also addressing the needs of the caretaker/victimizers. Four major topics are introduced including (1) the reality of family elder abuse/neglect, (2) religious/moral bases for addressing the problem of abuse/neglect, (3) an examination of family caretaker problems, and (4) theological/moral rationale for addressing caretaker needs. This paper hypothesizes that by identifying and addressing the needs of the caretaker, significant steps may also be taken towards possible intervention and prevention.
The linear driving force approximation for cyclic mass transfer in spherical particles

An approach alternative to that of Alpay and Scott (1992) to obtaining an exact, purely periodic solution of the particle diffusion equation is presented. The solution is obtained via Laplace transform, and the intraparticle concentration profile and instantaneous flux at the surface are expressed as trigonometric series expansions with respect to time
Oxygen isotopic variations of snowfall from winter storms in the central Sierra Nevada; Relation to ice growth microphysics and mesoscale structure

Abstract Observations have been made of the ice-crystal morphology of snow which fell at two sampling sites during a warm front followed by a cold front in the Sierra Nevada of the western United States. The snow sampling and ice crystal observations were conducted at Kingvale (KV) and Hobart Mills (HM), California, which are located at almost identical elevations on the upwind and down wind sides of the Sierra Nevada crest, respectively. These observations and several mesoscale features of one of the storms, have been used to study the substantial changes which occurred in the stable oxygen isotopic composition ( δ 18 O) of the precipitation at the two sites. At the beginning of the period of observation, a low level warm front lay across the region and its elevation lowered with time from 2.5 km to 1.7 km. This decrease of the frontal surface height was accompanied by a steady increase in the δ 18 O values. In the pre-cold frontal passage time periods, the δ 18 O values at the upwind site signified warmer origin ice crystal morphology than the downwind site. This is explained by orographic effects and the production of supercooled liquid water at low elevations on the upslope side of the Sierra Nevada. During the passage of the surface cold front, the differences in δ 18 O at the two sites were quite small probably because the orography plays a less significant role in the precipitation production process during such events. The δ 18 O peaked around −13% which translates to an “equivalent temperature” of −10.7°C for ice phase water capture at the upwind site KV. At site HM downwind of the Sierra crest, and 25 km east of KV, the weighted mean ice phase water capture occurred at elevations some 5 to 6°C colder than at KV, because of subsidence and loss of supercooled liquid water in the lower elevations on the lee side.
Webstudio: building infrastructure for web data management

To explore various ideas and algorithms for improving relevance of a search engine, we found it necessary to build an infrastructure to provide large-scale data management and data processing capabilities. WebStudio is an infrastructure we have constructed to provide an integrated development environment (IDE) for researchers and developers to use in quickly building prototypes and conducting experiments at Web-scale. It is also a Web data management system to allow users to easily store, access, and manipulate Web data.
Cinemicrographic determination of cell progression and division abnormalities after treatment with 1, 3 bis(2-chloroethyl)-1-nitrosourea

Abstract Time-lapse photography was used to study cell-cycle progression and cell-division abnormalities in rat 9 L brain tumor cells after treatment in culture with 2 μg/ml and 5 μg/ml of 1 , 3 bis( 2 -chloroethyl)- 1 -nitrosourea (BCNU). Cells treated in G 1 were extensively delayed in reaching the first mitosis after treatment, whereas cells treated in S and G 2 were not. However, cells treated in G 1 returned to nearly normal generation times in the first full post-treatment generation, whereas cells treated in S and G 2 had an abnormally long generation time in that generation. Most cells completed or at least attempted on or two divisions before dying, therby producing a 3 - to 4 -fold increase in cell number before any decrease was evident. Both the length of time required for cells to die and the number of divisions made before the cells died depended on the BCNU concentration to which they were exposed. Nearly all cells underwent abnormal divisions before dying, including tripolar divisions, unsuccessful divisions, divisions with the loss of a non-viable cytoplasmic mass, and unorganized divisions. The length of time that cells remained rounded at division depended on both the BCNU concentration and the generation after treatment. BCNU induced chromosomal aberrations that could be responsible for killing the cells or for the observed division delays and abnormalities.
The effect of sulfate reduction on the thermophilic (55°C) methane fermentation process

The continuously operated suspended growth anaerobic contact system was utilized to estimate the effect of sulfate reduction on the thermophilic (55°C) methane fermentation process. Results indicated that reduction in methanogenesis in the presence of sulfate was due to two separate, but related, processes;i.e. competitive and sulfide inhibition. Although prevention of competitive inhibition would be difficult under normal fermenter operation, sulfide inhibition could be minimized by environmental selection of sulfide tolerant microbial populations through biomass recycle and pH control. Stable fermenter operation was achieved at soluble sulfide concentrations as high as 330 mg/l soluble sulfide. Using batch fermenters, a maximum thermophilic sulfate reduction rate of 3.7 mg SO42−−S/g volatile solids (VS)-day was estimated. The importance of reporting sulfate reduction rates on a biomass basis is demonstrated by a simple population adjustment kinetic model.
Synthesis of several chemotactic peptide antagonists.

Abstract The following peptides have been synthesized using classical mixed anhydride methods: Boc-Leu-Phe-OH, Boc-Phe-Leu-Phe-OH, Boc-Leu-Phe-Leu-Phe-OH and Boc-Phe-Leu-Phe-Leu-Phe-OH. The tri, tetra and pentapeptides inhibit Formyl-Met-Leu-Phe-OH induced release of β-glucuronidase from rabbit peritoneal neutrophils. The antagonists exhibit ID50 concentrations in the range 2.6−5.7×10−7M. The dipeptide was inactive at all concentrations tested.
Experiences in engineering active replication into a traditional three-tiered client-server system

Distributed systems are now widely accepted as a solution to many computing needs. A common distributed system architecture style used today is the three-tiered client-server style; and, a popular technology that realizes this style is the Java Platform, Enterprise Edition (Java EE) Enterprise JavaBeans (EJB) technology. Basic EJB-based tiered architectures, however, do not address dependability requirements completely. This paper reports on experiences in expanding a basic EJB-based three-tiered client-server architecture to incorporate an active replication strategy to address reliability and performance concerns. The strategy was developed by formally modeling the component interactions in an actively-replicated server environment and refining that formal model into an extended EJB-based system architecture and implementation. Performance statistics are presented that show the success of the active replication approach for achieving improved reliability and performance with tradeoffs between these two important system qualities.