cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Implications of VLSI technology for speech processing

In this paper a survey will be made of the state of the art of the application of MOS technology to speech-processing circuits. Projections will be made of the future capabilities of this technology and how it relates to implementation of speech-processing algorithms.The most significant difference between the design of speech-processing systems of the past and the VLSI systems of the future is that VLSI technology can allow essentially complete integration of the system, including the interface circuits, the signal processor, and maybe even the transducer. This implies a major change in system design methodology since many of the most important advantages of VLSI technology will not be realized if each portion of the system is optimized without consideration of the other components. To cope with this problem, designers have in many cases over-simplified the constraints of the other system aspects in order to focus on their particular interests. Several examples will be given of computational techniques, developed for general-purpose computers, that now may become obsolete because of the new constraints of special-purpose VLSI chips.Very large-scale integration (VLSI) has come to mean very different things to different people, and a review will be given of some of the interpretations that are presently in vogue. To many (particularly the computer science community), VLSI implies a technology that has the capability to generate chips of such complexity that the designer of VLSI chips is freed from the constraint of minimizing the circuit area, an almost religious preoccupation of the industrial circuit designer. This then allows a variety of new design styles, such as PLAs, gate arrays, and silicon compilers, that have the capability for a high degree of computer automation. On the other hand, the digital signal processing algorithm community views VLSI as the level of integration that will finally allow low-cost implementation of some of their algorithms. VLSI will therefore finally make possible the development of applications of digital signal processing that will have widespread use. To the technologist and industrial I.C. designer, VLSI refers to an integrated circuit that has more transistors than some arbitrary number that ranges from as low as 1,000 logic gates up to circuits that contain more than 100,000 gates. Often a primary reason in the industrial community for determining whether a chip is of VLSI complexity is the aggressiveness of the public-relations and marketing activity associated with the design. An attempt will be made to integrate these various viewpoints to gain a broader perspective on what the actual impact will be of the future developments of the technology.
Selective Emigration, Cohort Quality, and Models of Immigrant Assimilation

Abstract In this article we identify sample underenumeration, changing cohort quality, and selective emigration as problems that threaten the validity of findings on immigrant socioeconomic assimilation derived from cross-sectional data. Using information on Mexican immigrants from the 1990 U.S. census and a unique binational source of data, we address the effects of these problems on cross-sectional regressions of English proficiency and wage attainment. Our results suggest that the underenumeration of temporary and undocumented migrants biases the estimated effects of human capital variables downward, but that selective emigration does not significantly affect cross-sectional models. We do find, however, that period of entry is a poor proxy for total migrant experience, and when we disentangle duration and cohort effects, we find some evidence for shifts in cohort quality over time, but not the systematic decline seen by others.
The food intake recording software system is valid among fourth-grade children.

Abstract Objectives To assess the validity of the Food Intake Recording Software System (FIRSSt) against observation of school lunch and a 24-hour dietary recall (24hDR); and to test the effects of sequencing, observation and a hair sample as a bogus pipeline on accuracy of dietary report. Design Six-group design systematically varying sequence of self-report (FIRSSt vs 24hDR), observation of school lunch, and hair sample as a bogus pipeline manipulation, with random assignment of participants. Subjects/setting 138 fourth-grade students in 2 elementary schools. Main outcome measures Accuracy of reported food consumption was measured in terms of matches, intrusions, and omissions among the FIRSSt, 24hDR, and as observed at school lunch. Students also completed self-report of performance with FIRSSt. Statistical analysis performed t tests, Pearson correlations, analysis of variance, factor analysis. Results When compared with school lunch observation for one meal, FIRSSt attained 46% match, 24% intrusion, and 30% omission rates, while a dietitian-conducted 24hDR obtained 59% match, 17% intrusion, and 24% omission rates. FIRSSt attained 60% match, 15% intrusion, and 24% omission rates against 24hDR for all meals in the previous day. There was no evidence of sequence of assessment affecting accuracy indicators, but there was a weak effect of school lunch observation on percent intrusions. Obtaining a hair sample reduced the omission rate for FIRSSt vs 24hDR and increased the match rate for 24hDR vs observation, thereby enhancing this as a bogus pipeline procedure. Children generally enjoyed completing FIRSSt. Hispanic children were more likely to report problems using FIRSSt. Applications/conclusions FIRSSt is somewhat less accurate than a dietitian-conducted 24hDR. However, this lower-cost procedure provides a promising method for assessing diet among children. Observation of consumption at school lunch may be reactive and artificially increase agreement. Obtaining a hair sample as a bogus pipeline may be a valuable technique for enhancing the accuracy of dietary assessment among children. J Am Diet Assoc. 2002; 102:380–385 .
Chemistry and adhesive properties of phenylethynyl-terminated phenylquinoxaline oligomers

Abstract As part of a program to develop high performance/high temperature structural resins for potential aeronautical applications, phenylethynyl-terminated phenylquinoxaline oligomers were prepared, characterized, thermally cured and the cured resins were evaluated as adhesives. The phenylquinoxaline oligomers were prepared by conventional and aromatic nucleophilic displacement routes and chain terminated with mono or di(phenylethynyl) groups. The oligomers were melt pressed into thin films, compression molded into tensile and compact tension specimens, and fabricated into titanium-to-titanium single lap shear adhesive specimens. The oligomers were generally compression molded for 1 hr at 350°C under pressures ranging from 0.10 to 1.4 MPa. The phenylquinoxaline oligomer prepared via aromatic nucleophilic displacement exhibited better processability and higher tensile shear strengths than those of the oligomers prepared via the conventional synthetic route. The synthesis, physical and mechanical propert...
Performance Comparisons Of Diode-Pumped Neodymium Laser Materials

The performance of several Nd 3+ doped laser materials were compared in a 1 watt diode-end-pumped configuration. The host materials included in this study were YVO 4 , YAG, BEL, Cr:GSGG, and LNA. Measurements were limited to laser performance on the 4 F 3/2 --> 4 I 11/2 transition. The predictive quality of traditional modelling was examined by generating detailed theoretical performance curves for all the materials. The best theoretical fit to the data was obtained by using cross section values deter-mined by the Birnbaum laser method and quantum efficiencies (QE) greater than 94% for all the materials except BEL and Cr:GSGG. The low QE for Cr:GSGG can be traced to excited state absorption into the Cr bands. bands. Uncertainty in the fit relates to the tradeoff between QE and loss. A performance comparison between coated and uncoated YAG suggests that surface losses contribute more than expected. The data and the model indicate that all materials studied here (except for Cr:GSGG) should display approximately a 55% or greater slope efficiency (optical-to-optical) above 1 watt of pump power if fabricated with a monolithic high reflector and antireflective coating at the appropriate faces. Based on projections from the model and data from the literature LNA has the potential to be a high efficiency and energy storage laser. Utilizing a new 2 watt 20 stripe diode laser array, 1.22 watts at an optical efficiency of 61% was obtained at 1064 nm in the TEM 00 from a Nd:YVO 4 crystal.
Thermodynamics of primary photosynthesis

The thermodynamics of photosynthesis has been much discussed, but recent articles have pointed to some confusion on the subject. The aim of this review is to clarify a limited part of this state of affairs.
Unilateral diaphragmatic paralysis inhibits postnatal lung growth in the piglet.

ABSTRACT: To test the hypothesis that regional growth of lung parenchyma depends on regional distending pressure, left cervical phrenectomy was done in ten 2-month-old piglets. The unilateral diaphragmatic paralysis reduced mean transpulmonary pressure in the left hemithorax from 5.5 ± 1.0 (x ± SD) to 2.5 ± 1.2 cm H2O (p < 0.01, n = 5). When five of the piglets were killed 48 h later, wet lung weight, total protein content, and nucleic acid content did not differ from values in the five sham operated controls. The five remaining phrenectomized piglets were compared to their five sham-operated controls 7 days after surgery. Wet weight of the left lung was reduced by 29% (p < 0.01) and DNA content was reduced by 18% (p < 0.05). Wet weight of the right lung, contralateral to the paralyzed hemidiaphragm, was reduced by 11% (p < 0.05). At this time, body weight, bilateral transpulmonary pressure, and ratios of total protein/DNA and RNA/DNA in lung tissue did not differ from the sham-operated controls. These results suggest that regional growth of lung parenchyma by cell proliferation adjusted to changes in regional transpulmonary pressure caused by the unilateral phrenectomy.
Interface Magnetism and Spin Wave Scattering in Ferromagnet-Insulator-Ferromagnet Tunnel Junctions

Careful tunneling studies in high quality $\mathrm{Co}/{\mathrm{Al}}_{2}{\mathrm{O}}_{3}/{\mathrm{Ni}}_{80}{\mathrm{Fe}}_{20}$ junctions show a junction magnetoresistance (JMR) of 20.2% and 27.1% at 295 and 77 K, respectively, where the latter is in agreement with Julliere's model. The temperature dependence of the JMR can be explained by the temperature dependence of surface magnetization. The decrease of the JMR with increasing dc bias is intrinsic to ferromagnetic junctions. The strong disagreement with recent theories in the low dc bias region can be attributed to magnetic excitations in these junctions, as seen in inelastic tunneling measurements.
Catalytic partial oxidation of methane in supercritical water

Abstract This communication reports on the feasibility of producing methanol and other partial oxidation products from methane during catalytic supercritical-water oxidation in a flow system. Even though only a few experiments were conducted, the results indicate that under a carefully controlled environment, methanol, formic acid, and other partial oxidation products can be selectively produced from methane during catalytic oxidation. The experiments were conducted at a fixed residence time and over a temperature range of 400 °C
Psychometric Characteristics of a Vocational Preference Inventory Short Form

This article presents reliability and validity evidence for Form B of Holland's Vocational Preference Inventory (VPI), a 42-item short form which was further reduced to 30 items for this study. The psychometric properties of this revised scale were assessed by using employees from five Federal Government organizations as respondents (N=2621). Factor analyses, interscale correlations, measures of internal consistency, and criterion group profiles are presented and discussed. All data, with some minor exceptions, support the utility of this form in research studies in which longer instrumentation cannot be used because of space or other limitations. In general, the evidence was supportive of both the construct (factorial) and criterion-related validity of the newly devised 30-item form of the VPI.
Molecular and genetic analysis of the mouse homolog of the Drosophila suppressor of position-effect variegation 3-9 gene.

The Drosophila melanogaster gene suppressor of position-effect variegation 3-9 [Su(var)3-9] encodes a component of heterochromatin with a chromodomain and a SET domain. Here, we describe the cloning of a mouse homolog called Suv39h1 and describe the genomic organization, pattern of expression, and genetic map position. The genomic locus is approximately 10 kb and consists of five exons. The first two exons, 1a and 1b, are alternative first exons and are followed by three common exons. Two mRNAs, encompassing exon 1a or 1b, encode protein isoforms with distinct amino termini, but which are otherwise identical, including the chromodomain and SET domain. Interestingly, only one of the isoforms contains a putative nuclear localization signal. Consistent with other genes encoding proteins associated with chromatin structure, Suv39h1 is expressed in a widespread manner. Interspecific backcross mapping localized Suv39h1 near tattered (Td) and scurfy (sf) on the proximal X Chromosome (Chr). However, analysis of Td/Y and sf/Y mutant stocks indicated that Suv39h1 is not responsible for either mutant phenotype.
A field-deployable colorimetric bioassay for the rapid and specific detection of ribosomal RNA

Abstract Rapid and specific on-site detection of disease-causing or toxin-producing organisms is essential to public health and safety. Many molecular recognition methods target ribosomal RNA sequences due to their specificity and abundance in the cell. In this work RNA targets were identified and quantified using a colorimetric bioassay. Peptide nucleic acid (PNA) probes were used to capture RNA targets, and a micrococcal nuclease digestion was performed to remove all non-target nucleic acids, including single base mismatches flanked by adenines or uracils. Perfectly-matched PNA–RNA hybrids remained intact and were detected using the symmetrical cyanine dye 3,3′-diethylthiadicarbocyanine iodide (DiSC 2 (5)). Assay applicability to complex samples was demonstrated using mixtures containing RNA sequences from two related, harmful algal bloom-causing Alexandrium species. Target RNA was detected even in mixtures with mismatched sequences in excess of the perfect match. The fieldability of the assay was tested with a portable two-wavelength colorimeter developed to quantify the dye-indicated hybridization signal. The colorimeter sensing performance was shown to be comparable to a laboratory spectrophotometer. This quick, inexpensive and robust system has the potential to replace laborious identification schemes in field environments.
s-Dipentacene: Structure, Spectroscopy, and Temperature- and Pressure-Dependent Photochemistry

We report the synthesis, characterization, spectroscopy, and photochemistry of s-dipentacene (see Figure 1). The symmetric addition product dimer of pentacene (s-dipentacene) is formed upon irradiation of a solution of pentacene. The structure of s-dipentacene was determined by X-ray crystallography. The crystals had a space group symmetry of P1 with two molecules per unit cell. One molecule in the unit cell was accompanied by two dichloromethane molecules of solvation. Photodecomposition of s-dipentacene, dispersed in a poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) host matrix, to pentacene was studied. Spectroscopic evidence shows that this photodecomposition proceeds through a trapped intermediate both at low temperature (∼12 K) and at room temperature under high pressure (13 kbar). This intermediate is assigned as a “broken dimer” of two pentacene molecules trapped in the PMMA host. We previously reported similar results in the photolysis of both dianthracene and ditetracene at low temperatures, but this is the f...
Perturbation expansion of the single-particle density matrix†

An expansion theorem for the matrix element of an operator, previously used by Schafroth, is shown to be equivalent to the resolvent method and is used to obtain a perturbation series expansion of the density matrix which is analogous to the Born series of time-independent scattering theory. Green's perturbation formula for the density matrix of N distinguishable particles follows quite easily. The method is applied in the self-consistent field approximation to the potential of an impurity in a solid of arbitrary degeneracy, and for both free and Bloch electrons. The perturbed electron density is given to all orders in the impurity potential, the linear term being what the static dielectric theory gives. For metals at finite temperatures the screening function is damped by a factor which is similar to the damping factor of the Friedel oscillations. The screening condition is discussed briefly in this formulation. The passage from the perturbation expansion to the Thomas-Fermi approximation is pointed out.
Equal-path time-of-flight neutron diffraction

Abstract Measurements of the neutron diffraction patterns of liquids and non-crystalline solids with crystal spectrometer facilities and time-of-flight diffraction techniques are discussed. It is shown that measurements with an equal-path time-of flight diffractometer generally provide the most accurate representation of a total diffraction pattern. The results of neutron diffraction measurements of vitreous silica with a crystal spectrometer and an equal-path time-of-flight diffractometer are contrasted.
A dissociation between visual and motor workspace inhibits generalization of visuomotor adaptation across the limbs

We have previously shown that the pattern of interlimb transfer following visuomotor adaptation depends on whether the two arms share task-space at a given workspace location: when the two arms adapted to a novel visuomotor rotation in unshared, lateral workspaces, transfer of movement direction information occurred symmetrically (i.e., from dominant to nondominant arm, and vice versa). When the two arms shared the same task-space, however, transfer of the same information became asymmetric (i.e., only from dominant to nondominant arm). In the present study, I investigated the effect of a conflict between visual and proprioceptive information of task-space on the pattern of interlimb transfer, by dissociating visual and motor workspaces. I hypothesized that the pattern of interlimb transfer would be determined by the way the motor control system uses available sensory information, and predicted that depending on whether the system relied more on vision or proprioception, transfer would occur either symmetrically or asymmetrically. Surprisingly, the results indicated that despite substantial adaptation to a novel visuomotor rotation, no transfer occurred across the arms when the visual and motor workspaces were dissociated in space. Based on this finding, I suggest that when a conflict exists between visual and proprioceptive information with respect to the sharing of the given task-space by the two arms, it interferes with executive decisions made by the motor control system in determining hand dominance at a given workspace, which results in a lack of transfer across the arms.
Correlation of heterogeneity index score (HIS) of DNA content in bladder cancer recurrence

Automated flow cytometry (FCM) has been used to monitor the effects of therapy and progression of human bladder carcinoma. We have previously reported a computer-based model which has shown a correlation to relative mean DNA content in cell populations analyzed by FCM. Two patients with superficial transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder were followed for several months. Using FCM the patients' tissue samples were examined and heterogeneity index scores (HIS) were determined. Both cases had recurrence. The first patient has increased in grade with a respective increase in HIS within four months (grade I----II, HIS 27.2----80.8). The second patient also has recurrence in three months both times with a grade I tumor and a score of 106.2. High scores reflect large aneuploid populations which have shown to recur. Since such a correlation exists HIS may not only offer a more objective technique with quantitative results to monitor patients but possibly can distinguish the degree of tumor malignancy.
Fine structure of epithelial canal cells in petioles of Xanthium pensylvanicum

Secretory canals were examined in petioles of Xanthium pensylvanicum (Cocklebur) grown under long day illumination to maintain vegetative growth. The fine structure of the canal and its epithelium was studied by electron microscopy of thin section cut transverse to the principal axis of petioles from leaves in an early stage of development. The canal proper is delimited by walls of epithelial cells which protrude into a scallop shaped cavity. In comparison to the surrounding parenchyma, the epithelial cells are smaller, cytoplasmically more dense, and less vacuolate. The epithelium contains pleomorphic starch-free plastids with planar thylakoids frequently stacked into grana; thus, the plastids are presumed photosynthetically active. Mitochondria are abundant and often dense. The cytoplasm is rich in free polysomes, and smooth endoplasmic reticulum predominates over the rough form. Spheroidal granules averaging about 530 nm in diameter are numerous in the epithelium and appear at lower concentration in neighboring cells. Many features of fine structure of the epithelial cells suggest that a high metabolic activity in present in this tissue during this early stage of development. A possible function of the canals is defense against insect predation and animal grazing.
Silicene nanoribbons as carbon monoxide nanosensors with molecular resolution

Applications based on silicene as grown on substrates are of high interest toward actual utilization of this unique material. Here we explore, from first principles, the nature of carbon monoxide adsorption on semiconducting silicene nanoribbons and the resulting quantum conduction modulation with and without silver contacts for sensing applications. We find that quantum conduction is detectably modified by weak chemisorption of a single CO molecule on a pristine silicene nanoribbon. This modification can be attributed to the charge transfer from CO to the silicene nanoribbon and the deformation induced by the CO chemisorption. Moderate binding energies provide an optimal mix of high detectability and recoverability. With Ag contacts attached to a ∼1 nm silicene nanoribbon, the interface states mask the conductance modulations caused by CO adsorption, emphasizing length effects for sensor applications. The effects of atmospheric gases—nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide, and water—as well as CO adsorption density and edge-dangling bond defects, on sensor functionality are also investigated. Our results reveal pristine silicene nanoribbons as a promising new sensing material with single molecule resolution.
Progress and challenges in numerically modelling solid sports balls with application to softballs.

Abstract Much of the work surrounding finite element simulation of bat–ball impacts has focused on techniques describing the ball. Determining the accuracy of these models has been hindered by challenges in experimentally characterizing the ball's response. In the following, dynamic mechanical analysis and an instrumented impact test were used to characterize the solid ball at deformation rates representative of play. The ball was described in the numerical model as a linear viscoelastic material. It was observed that a Prony series model based on small deformation dynamic mechanical analysis did not provide sufficient energy loss upon impact, while a simpler Power Law model, fitted to large deformation data, described the measured energy loss and impact force over a range of speeds. Results of a parametric study are presented as a guide towards tailoring the parameters of the Power Law model to match the measured energy loss and impact force. Discrepancies observed between the experiment and the numerica...
Myths of neuropsychology: further considerations.

The publication of “Myths of Neuropsychology’” (Dodrill, 1997) has stimulated three responses, each of which takes issue with points in the original publication. These three responses especially address Myth #4 (“Above-average performances on neuropsychological tests are expected when intellectual abilities are above average’”) and to a lesser degree Myth #1 (“We have a good knowledge of the constructs that our tests measure’”). The present paper reviews the thoughts and new data which these colleagues have provided in response to the original paper, and it also presents additional data bearing on the issues at hand. Based on the composite of information now available, it is conceded that Myth #4 was not accurately worded in the original paper. This was a mistake, and an alternate wording for Myth #4 is offered. Other changes in the original publication do not appear to be required. In order to resolve many of the issues at hand and thereby advance our profession, research in a number of areas is needed, ...
Influence of Environmental, Structural, and Behavioral Factors on the Presence of Phosphine in Worker Areas During Fumigations in Grain Elevators

Data-logging gas monitors with electrochemical cells sensitive to phosphine (PH3) were used to characterize concentrations of this common grain fumigant in and around grain elevators during fumigations. Twenty-four grain fumigations were observed, and each was monitored over a 5- to 8-day period. Phosphine gas, generated from aluminum phosphide fumigant applied to the grain, generally moved upward toward the grain surface and exited the bin at bin-top openings to the outside air or to enclosed worker areas. The upward air currents appeared to be the result of chimney effects, e.g., pressure differences resulting from buoyant air inside the warm grain and cooler, denser, ambient air. Significant wind effects on the PH3 concentration were also observed in the air between the grain surface and the bin roof. In enclosed areas located at the bin-top level, monitors located near the fill port or the fumigant dispenser recorded PH3 concentrations in excess of the exposure limit of 0.3 parts per million (ppm) about 35% of the time during grain fumigations. Phosphine concentrations between 0.31 and 1.0 ppm were observed 17.3% of the time, and concentrations in the ranges of 1.01-3.0, 3.01-10.0, and >10 ppm constituted 11.8%, 5.5%, and 0.3% of all readings, respectively, in bin-top worker areas. The likelihood of recording PH3 concentrations >0.3 ppm depended on ventilation practices. Fans in tunnels and open windows at aboveground locations appeared to greatly reduce the likelihood of high PH3 concentrations in enclosed areas.
Reply: On Cultural Politics, Sauer, and the Politics of Citation

In "Buried epistemologies," (Annals, AAG 87:3-31) I explored ways that colonial power relations were established on Canada's west coast through the construction of "nature" as a realm separate from "culture," and how today these colonialist relations are reproduced when "nature" is allowed to stand as an ahistorical object that needs no explanation. In his commentary, Sluyter argues that the "Sauerian tradition" has long been occupied with such questions, and suggests that my work would gain greater salience if I would only acknowledge, appreciate, critique, and inform the tradition in which he stands. Perhaps so. But to make this assertion, it seems to me, Sluyter offers a broad, and somewhat misleading, interpretation of the "Sauerian tradition" and considerably misunderstands my own project. Sauer wrote extensively about the cultural and ecological changes wrought by Spanish colonialism but had far less to say about questions of power and politics. I will say more later about the troubling disciplinary nature of Sluyter's remarks. First, however, I wish to locate some points of divergence and convergence between my work and the "Sauerian tradition" as well as to highlight the analytical and political stakes involved in understanding "nature" and "culture" as sites of political struggle, issues that were not central to-and at times were occluded by-Sauer's prolific and influential writings.
Understanding Embryonic Development: A Contemporary View

The immediate causal explanation for cell differentiation is the regulated ontogenic expression of specific sets of genes in cells of each given type. Demonstration of this principle has resulted in a revolutionary reorientation of the study of early development. Imposition of spatial patterns of differential gene expression at the onset of Drosophila and sea urchin development is briefly discussed. The mechanisms by which this process occurs in these two systems differ in fundamental respects. Molecular analysis of differential gene function in the embryo promises to provide a fruitful approach to classically defined questions, such as the nature of induction, regulative development, and cytoplasmic localization.
Necrotizing fasciitis after cesarean delivery.

Objective: To review our experience with the diagnosis and management of necrotizing fasciitis after cesarean delivery. Methods: We reviewed medical records of women with serious post-cesarean wound infections at the University of Alabama at Birmingham between 1987 and 1994 to identify women with necrotizing fasciitis. The diagnosis of necrotizing fasciitis required intraoperative identification of necrotic fascia in febrile women undergoing post-cesarean wound debridement. Results: During the study period, 5048 women had cesarean deliveries, nine of which were complicated by necrotizing fasciitis. The mean (± standard deviation) maternal age was 27 ± 6 years, and the mean maternal weight was 199 ± 64 lb. None of the patients had insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, and none had known peripheral vascular disease. There were no intraoperative complications at cesarean delivery. The mean time from cesarean delivery to the diagnosis of necrotizing fasciitis and reoperation was 10 ± 4 days (range 5–17). All patients had surgical debridement upon consideration of the diagnosis, and all received broadspectrum antimicrobial therapy. Results of wound cultures were available in seven of the women, and all seven were found to have polymicrobial infections. There were two mortalities, one as a result of metastatic breast cancer and another with complications of sepsis. Conclusion: Necrotizing fasciitis is infrequent (1.8 per 1000 women) after cesarean delivery at our institution, but it does result in appreciable morbidity and mortality.
Welcome to the 2010 IEEE International Conference on RFID

It is my great pleasure and honor to welcome you to the 2010 IEEE International Conference on RFID (IEEE RFID 2010), the fourth annual IEEE RFID conference. IEEE RFID yearly attracts researchers, scientists, engineers, and users who are eager to understand the latest developments in RFID technologies and their related disciplines. Mirroring the diversity in its accepted papers, IEEE RFID brings together a broad variety of outstanding individuals, such as you, from the broad spectrum of RFID technologies. Your participation makes IEEE RFID the place for technical interchanges and innovative brainstorming.
Spirocyclic Peptidomimetics Featuring 2,3-Methanoamino Acids

The spirocyclic peptidomimetics cyclo-[{(2S,3S)-cyclo-R}GD{(2S,3S)-cyclo-R}GD] (3) and cyclo-[{(2R,3S)-cyclo-R}GD{(2R,3S)-cyclo-R}GD] (4), containing 2,3-methanoarginine (cyclo-Arg‘) residues, were prepared. Conformations of these molecules were studied via a combination of CD and 1D and 2D NMR, and these data were interfaced with extensive molecular simulations. Conformational biases for molecules 3 and 4 were thereby deduced and were compared with conclusions previously obtained (Burgess, K.; Lim, D.; Mousa, S. A. J. Med. Chem. 1996, 39, 4520) for cyclo-[RGDRGD] (2). Molecule 3 has a relatively clear conformational bias toward a structure with a type II β-turn between the Gly CO and Gly NH atoms, but 4 is more flexible, existing in conformers wherein the Asp and Arg side chains tend to be on opposite faces of the backbone cyclic structure. These conclusions were used to interpret the relative affinities of 2−4 with respect to the vitronectin receptor.
Does brain 5-HIAA indicate serotonin release or monoamine oxidase activity?

The question of whether serotonin is deaminated by MAO before it can be released or after release has occurred was investigated by studying the 5-HT behavioral syndrome in acutely reserpinized rats. The release of serotonin from vesicles by reserpine does not produce the serotonin behavioral syndrome which is an in vivo index of serotonin release and receptor activation. However, if rats are first pretreated with a nonselective monoamine oxidase inhibitor (e.g., tranylcypromine), the injection of reserpine is followed by symptoms which are characteristic of the behavioral syndrome including forepaw treading, hindlimb abduction and head weaving. Neither selective MAO-A or -B inhibition with clorgyline or deprenyl, respectively, nor inhibition of serotonin reuptake with fluoxetine prior to reserpine produced the serotonin behavioral syndrome. However, the combination of clorgyline and deprenyl followed by reserpine does so. These behavioral data along with neurochemical analyses of serotonin and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid levels lead to the conclusion that serotonin does not have to be released before it is metabolized to 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid. Consequently, the levels of 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid in brain reflect MAO activity and not serotonin release or utilization.
Ontogeny of Transport Systems for Cationic Amino Acids in the Placenta

The placenta serves as the functional boundary between the maternal and the fetal circulations and has long been known to deliver amino acids concentratively to the fetus. The amino acid part of our early nutrition is thus effected by the net activity of various transporters. These are positioned both in the microvillous (maternal facing) and the basal (fetal facing) membranes of the syncytiotrophoblast.
Optical fiber-based wave-mixing probe

A fiber-based wave-mixing probe is presented as a simple spectroscopic measurement tool with minimum optical alignment requirements for trace-concentration analytes. For a multi-photon nonlinear laser-induced grating method to become widely accessible, the optical setup must be compact, easy to align and portable. We demonstrate a significant improvement in the forward-scattering (self-diffraction) wave-mixing optical setup using optical fibers for both laser input and signal output interfaces. There is considerable flexibility inherent in the design, since the wave-mixing probe can be used in multiple configurations. Wave-mixing spectroscopy is presented as an effective and sensitive analytical method for trace analysis, offering advantages such as detection in very small sample volumes, remote and in-situ analyses, and convenient and efficient alignment enhancements obtained by the use of optical fibers.
Greatness in the Math Corps family: Integrating ethnographic, corpus, and cognitive approaches to a cultural model

Abstract This study analyzes a cultural model for greatness at the Math Corps, an enrichment mathematics program of primarily African American students from public schools in Detroit, Michigan. Corpus analysis of staff addresses reveals eight interrelated conceptual relationships about greatness, conceptualized as a resource inside individuals motivating success. Compared to contemporary and historical American English corpora, this cultural model differs systematically from general understandings of greatness. Aspects of these conceptual relationships are then elaborated through gestural and graphic modalities. This cultural model produces a framework for decision and action, motivating student success in a challenging educational environment. This study integrates ethnography, corpus linguistics, and discourse analysis in understanding conceptual metaphor and cultural models, both in educational settings and other discourse communities.
The Frequency of Prayer, Meditation and Holistic Interventions in Addictions Treatment: A National Survey

This study examines the prevalence of endorsing the twelve step approach and the use of prayer, meditation, and holistic techniques in a national sample of 139 substance abuse treatment centers. Ninety one percent of the programs endorsed a twelve step orientation. Twenty six percent of the programs actively used prayer and 58% used meditation as a component of treatment. Thirty three percent of the programs used some form of a self-designated holistic technique. There was a divergent range of techniques that were used by programs, falling into four broad categories: (1) nutrition, exercise, relaxation and physical health; (2) recreation and adventure-based activities; (3) religious and spiritual practices; and (4) the use of specific therapy modalities.
Stabilization of Spontaneous Neurotransmitter Release at Ribbon Synapses by Ribbon-Specific Subtypes of Complexin

Ribbon synapses of tonically releasing sensory neurons must provide a large pool of releasable vesicles for sustained release, while minimizing spontaneous release in the absence of stimulation. Complexins are presynaptic proteins that may accomplish this dual task at conventional synapses by interacting with the molecular machinery of synaptic vesicle fusion at the active zone to retard spontaneous vesicle exocytosis yet facilitate release evoked by depolarization. However, ribbon synapses of photoreceptor cells and bipolar neurons in the retina express distinct complexin subtypes, perhaps reflecting the special requirements of these synapses for tonic release. To investigate the role of ribbon-specific complexins in transmitter release, we combined presynaptic voltage clamp, fluorescence imaging, electron microscopy, and behavioral assays of photoreceptive function in zebrafish. Acute interference with complexin function using a peptide derived from the SNARE-binding domain increased spontaneous synaptic vesicle fusion at ribbon synapses of retinal bipolar neurons without affecting release triggered by depolarization. Knockdown of complexin by injection of an antisense morpholino into zebrafish embryos prevented photoreceptor-driven migration of pigment in skin melanophores and caused the pigment distribution to remain in the dark-adapted state even when embryos were exposed to light. This suggests that loss of complexin function elevated spontaneous release in illuminated photoreceptors sufficiently to mimic the higher release rate normally associated with darkness, thus interfering with visual signaling. We conclude that visual system-specific complexins are required for proper illumination-dependent modulation of the rate of neurotransmitter release at visual system ribbon synapses.
Emerging data on the efficacy and safety of fulvestrant, a unique antiestrogen therapy for advanced breast cancer

Introduction: Fulvestrant is an antiestrogen therapy with a unique mechanism of action. Unlike the selective estrogen receptor modulator tamoxifen, fulvestrant has no known estrogen agonist activity and is considered a pure antiestrogen. Its primary mechanism of action is thought to result from downregulation of the estrogen receptor (ER). Considerable data have demonstrated the efficacy of fulvestrant in postmenopausal women with ER-positive advanced breast cancer, both in the first-line setting and following disease progression on tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors. Recent studies report improved benefit with alternative dosing strategies. At all administration schedules, fulvestrant has an excellent safety profile with no significant adverse effects. Areas covered: This article provides a review of the mechanism of action of fulvestrant and the preclinical and clinical data evaluating its use as a form of endocrine therapy. The reader will gain insight into the pharmacologic properties of the drug and i...
Non-stationary motion of a rotating infinitely flattened self-gravitating system near an equilibrium state

An example of a rotating infinitely flattened self-gravitating particle system in steady state is considered. Non-stationary motion of the system in the neighborhood of this equilibrium solution is determined through the sencond-order perturbation. The first order perturbation terms give rise to a configuration of straight bars emanating from the center which become skewed under the influence of the second-order terms. In the case of a single bar, as in a barred spiral, the skewing is in the arms leading or arms trailing sense, according to whether the system is developing away from or approaching the equilibrium state.
High temperature rate constants for H/D + n-C4H10 and i-C4H10

Abstract The reactions of D/H with n-C 4 H 10 and i-C 4 H 10 have been studied with both shock-tube experiments and ab initio transition state theoretical calculations. D-atom profiles were measured behind reflected shock waves using D-atom atomic resonance absorption spectrometry (ARAS) in mixtures with C 2 D 5 I (D-atom precursor, 200 ppm), over the T-range 1063–1327 K, at pressures ≅0.5 atm. D-atom depletion in the present experiments is sensitive only to the reactions, D + n - C 4 H 10 → products ( A ) D + i - C 4 H 10 → products . ( B ) Simulations of the measured D-atom profiles allow for determinations of total rate constants for the processes (A) and (B). The experimental rate constants are well represented by the Arrhenius equations, k A = 2.11 × 10 - 9 exp ( - 5661 K / T ) cm 3 molecules - 1 s - 1 ( 1074 – 1253 K ) k B = 2.57 × 10 - 9 exp ( - 5798 K / T ) cm 3 molecules - 1 s - 1 ( 1063 – 1327 K ) The title reactions have also been characterized using electronic structure theory at the CCSD(T)/cc-pV∞Z//M06-2X/cc-pvtz level of theory. Over the T-range of the present experiments, the ab initio based transition state theory (TST) kinetics predictions for the isotope effects, k D / k H , are near unity. The theoretical predictions are in good agreement with the experimental results and can be represented by the modified Arrhenius equations, k A,THEORY = 6.677 × 10 - 17 T 2.118 exp ( - 2700 K / T ) cm 3 molecules - 1 s - 1 ( 500 – 2000 K ) k B,THEORY = 5.627 × 10 - 20 T 2.934 exp ( - 1225 K / T ) cm 3 molecules - 1 s - 1 ( 500 – 2000 K ) To our knowledge, the present experiments are the first direct measurements for the title reactions and the rate constants from this combined experimental/theoretical effort are recommended for use in combustion modeling. Results from the present studies on n-C 4 H 10 and i-C 4 H 10 along with prior studies on C 2 H 6 and C 3 H 8 suggest the applicability of rate rules for H + Alkanes that are based on generic primary, secondary, and tertiary abstraction sites.
Hereditary angioedema: Safety of long-term stanozolol therapy

Background Attenuated androgens control attacks of hereditary angioedema. Short-term studies of such patients treated at our institution with attenuated androgens demonstrated no adverse effects. However, the side-effect frequencies in patients receiving long-term treatment are relatively less well characterized. Objective To assess the frequencies of various side effects of the attenuated androgen stanozolol in a population of patients with hereditary angioedema treated for 20 to 40 years. Methods Data on side effects in patients who continued stanozolol therapy since 1987 were obtained by means of questionnaire. Patients were evaluated by physical examination; biochemical assays of hepatic function, serum lipids, and prostate specific antigen; and liver ultrasound. Results The minimal initial effective dosage of stanozolol was 0.5 to 2.0 mg daily, although most patients achieved symptomatic control and decreased the dose and frequency as the frequency of attacks decreased. Treatment-related symptoms developed in 10 of 21 patients. No interruption in stanozolol therapy was required because symptoms subsided with a reduction in the stanozolol dosage. Adverse side effects included hirsutism, weight gain, menstrual irregularities or postmenopausal bleeding, acne, and mood changes. Liver enzyme assays revealed no persistent abnormalities. Liver ultrasounds in 8 patients revealed 3 abnormalities deemed unrelated to therapy. Five patients had a reduced high-density lipoprotein, and 2 patients had elevated triglycerides. Conclusion Stanozolol is a safe and effective drug for the long-term management of hereditary angioedema. Clinical implications Stanozolol may be used in the long-term treatment of patients with hereditary angioedema provided such patients are closely supervised with routine clinical, biochemical, and radiologic assessments.
Functional regulation of the opposing (p)ppGpp synthetase/hydrolase activities of RelMtb from Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

The dual-function RelMtb protein from Mycobacterium tuberculosis catalyzes both the synthesis and hydrolysis of (p)ppGpp, the effector of the stringent response. In our previous work [Avarbock, D., Avarbock, A., and Rubin, H. (2000) Biochemistry 39, 11640], we presented evidence that the RelMtb protein might catalyze its two opposing reactions at distinct active sites. In the study presented here, we purified and characterized fragments of the 738-amino acid RelMtb protein and confirmed the hypothesis that amino acid fragment 1−394 contains both synthesis and hydrolysis activities, amino acid fragment 87−394 contains only (p)ppGpp synthesis activity, and amino acid fragment 1−181 contains only (p)ppGpp hydrolysis activity. Mutation of specific residues within fragment 1−394 results in the loss of synthetic activity and retention of hydrolysis (G241E and H344Y) or loss of hydrolytic activity with retention of synthesis (H80A and D81A). The C-terminally cleaved RelMtb fragment proteins have basal activities...
Records for Electronic Databases in the Online Catalog at Middle Tennessee State University

This article recounts a project at the Middle Tennessee State University library to include records for electronic databases in the online catalog. Although electronic databases are accessible via the library's Databases A-Z list and related subject guides, cataloging these resources also provides access via the online catalog, allowing more of the library's resources to be accessible in one place. The project is a collaborative effort between the User Services and Collection Management departments, where there is shared responsibility for the acquisition, service, and maintenance of electronic databases. The benefits of cataloging electronic databases are discussed as well as workflow and processing issues.
The Decline in U.S. Output Volatility

Explanations for the decline in U.S. output volatility since the mid-1980s include: “better policy,” “good luck,” and technological change. Our multiple-break estimates suggest that reductions in volatility since the mid-1980s extend not only to manufacturing inventories, but also to sales. This finding, along with a concentration of the reduction in the volatility of inventories in materials and supplies and the lack of a significant break in the inventory–sales covariance, imply that new inventory technology cannot account for most of the decline in output volatility.