cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Empirical study of session-based workload and reliability for Web servers

The growing availability of Internet access has led to significant increase in the use of World Wide Web. If we are to design dependable Web-based systems that deal effectively with the increasing number of clients and highly variable workload, it is important to be able to describe the Web workload and errors accurately. In this paper we focus on the detailed empirical analysis of the session-based workload and reliability based on the data extracted from actual Web logs often Web servers. First, we address the data collection process and describe the methods for extraction of workload and error data from Web log files. Then, we introduce and analyze several intra-session and inter-session metrics that collectively describe Web workload in terms of user sessions. Furthermore, we analyze Web error characteristics and estimate the request-based and session-based reliability of Web servers. Finally, we identify the invariants of the Web workload and reliability that apply through all data sets considered. The results presented in this paper show that session-based workload and reliability are better indicators of the users perception of the Web quality than the request-based metrics and provide more useful measures for tuning and maintaining of the Web servers.
BioWarehouse: Relational Integration of Eleven Bioinformatics Databases and Formats

BioWarehouse is an open-source project for integrating bioinformatics databases within a relational database warehouse. It has two key features. A comprehensive database schema models many different bioinformatics datatypes. A set of loader tools permits loading of public bioinformatics databases, and of standard bioinformatics formats, into that database schema. Thus, multiple databases can be queried together within a single common schema. The supported databases are BioCyc, CMR, ENZYME, Eco2DBase, Genbank, Gene Ontology, KEGG, NCBI Taxonomy, and UniProt. The supported formats are BioPAX (protein interactions subset only) and MAGE-ML.
Computer based training telecommunications courseware

Computer based courseware offer students the flexibility of self pace learning. In the telecommunication concentration at New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) we developed a set of courseware modules that integrate remote access, animation, self-pace learning, and performance evaluation test. This is a part of the telecommunication curricula offered to the undergraduate population in the Electrical Engineering Technology program. The courseware material was developed and tested jointly with Lucent Technologies. In this paper we present a courseware designed to introduce students to many telecommunications concepts necessary for learners pursuing curricula in computer and data communications.
Chlorin e6 sensitized photovoltaic cells: effect of co-adsorbents on cell performance, charge transfer resistance, and charge recombination dynamics

The effect of dye-aggregation-preventing co-adsorbents, cholic acid and deoxycholic acid, on the performance of dye-sensitized solar cells constructed using a metal-free sensitizer, chlorin e6 adsorbed onto TiO2 surface is investigated. Absorption and fluorescence studies of chlorin e6 provided the spectral coverage, whereas electrochemical studies allowed estimation of the free energy of charge injection. B3LYP/6-31G* studies were performed to visualize location of the Frontier orbitals and their contribution to the charge injection when they were surface-modified on TiO2. The concentration of the co-adsorbent and soaking time was optimized for improved cell performance. Better dye regeneration efficiency for co-adsorbed cells compared to the cells with no co-adsorbent was revealed by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Femtosecond transient absorption studies were performed to probe the kinetics of charge injection and charge recombination on the TiO2/chlorin e6/co-adsorbent electrodes. Such studies showed slower by an order of magnitude charge recombination rates for electrodes co-adsorbed either with cholic acid or deoxycholic acid while maintaining almost the same charge injection rates, thus rationalizing the importance of co-adsorbents on the overall cell performance.
Genetics of the Mandelate Pathway in Pseudomonas aeruginosa

The linkage of genes governing synthesis of enzymes functional in the conversion of l(+)-mandelate to benzoate in Pseudomonas aeruginosa was studied. These genes were found to be linked in a fashion consistent with regulatory mechanisms known to govern synthesis of this inducible pathway. Surprisingly, linkage was also observed between the mandelate genes and those governing the synthesis of functionally related enzymes that participate in the catabolism of anthranilate and benzoate. These latter genes are grouped in at least three regulatory units. Some theoretical explanations for high intensity of linkage among functionally related genes whose expression is not induced by a common metabolite are discussed.
Learning to use, useful for learning: a usability study of Google apps for education

Using results from an original survey instrument, this study examined student perceptions of how useful Google Apps for Education (GAFE) was in students' learning of core concepts in a first-year college composition course, how difficult or easy it was for students to interact with GAFE, and how students ranked specific affordances of the technology in terms of its usability and usefulness. Students found GAFE relatively easy to use and appreciated its collaborative affordances. The researchers concluded that GAFE is a useful tool to meet learning objectives in the college composition classroom.
Characterization of Sobolev and BV Spaces

Abstract The main results of this paper are new characterizations of W 1 , p ( Ω ) , 1 p ∞ , and BV ( Ω ) for Ω ⊂ R N an arbitrary open set. Using these results, we answer some open questions of Brezis (2002) [10] and Ponce (2004) [25] .
Nature of the Lunar Mascons

The hypothesis that there was once water on the Moon can account for the lunar mass concentrations—mascons—recently deduced to be present beneath the circular maria.
Effectively vertical transmission of a Drosophila‐parasitic nematode: mechanism and consequences

Summary 1. Long-term control of insects by parasites is possible only if the parasite populations persist. Because parasite transmission rate depends on host density, parasite populations may go extinct during periods of low host density. Vertical transmission of parasites, however, is independent of host density and may therefore provide a demographic bridge through times when their insect hosts are rare. 2. The nematode Howardula aoronymphium, which parasitises mycophagous species of Drosophila, can experience both horizontal and effectively vertical transmission, relative rates of which depend, in theory at least, on the density of hosts at breeding sites. 3. A nine-generation experiment was carried out in which nematodes were transmitted either exclusively vertically or primarily horizontally. This experiment revealed that these parasites can persist and exhibit positive population growth even when there is only vertical transmission. 4. Assays at the end of the experiment revealed that the vertically transmitted nematodes had suffered no inbreeding depression and that they were similar to the horizontally transmitted nematodes in terms of virulence, infectivity, within-host growth rate, and fecundity. Thus, vertical transmission of H. aoronymphium did not appear to compromise the ability of these parasites to control Drosophila populations.
A cross frequency performance comparison of dual polarization attenuation correction algorithms at X and S band

The Midlatitude Continental Convective Clouds Experiment (MC3E) was conducted in northern Oklahoma during the summer of 2011. This experiment provided a unique opportunity wherein a network of X-band radars was deployed within the range of dual polarized C-band and S-band radars. While the X-band network concept is popular, as can be seen by the success of the Collaborative Adaptive Sensing of the Atmosphere (CASA) project, careful microphysical observations comparing X-band and non-attenuated S-band are rare. This paper shows preliminary results of X-band network retrievals of microphysical compared with S-band.
Influence of methylparaben as a solid-state plasticizer on the physicochemical properties of Eudragit RS PO hot-melt extrudates.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the properties of methylparaben as a solid-state plasticizer for Eudragit® RS PO during a hot-melt extrusion process. Extruded matrices containing different levels of methylparaben and Eudragit® RS PO, were prepared by feeding the powder blend through a hot melt extruder. The melt viscosity of the polymer blends was assessed by torque rheometry using a Brabender Plasticorder. The physicochemical properties of the extruded methylparaben-containing polymer matrix were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray diffraction. Solid state nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) was used to study the possible interaction between methylparaben and Eudragit® RS PO polymer. The results demonstrated that the glass transition temperature of the Eudragit® RS PO decreased with increasing levels of methylparaben in the extrudate, due to an increase in the chain mobility of Eudragit® RS PO. The crystallinity of methylparaben was absent following hot-melt processing. At increasing levels of methylparaben in the extrudates, a decrease in the melt viscosity was seen due to a plasticization of the polymer. Rheological properties of the extrudates containing methylparaben were compared with the extrudates containing conventional plasticizers. It was found that methylparaben was as effective as triethyl citrate (TEC) in reducing torque during the extrusion process. Solid state NMR spectra indicated a change in the chemical shift of Eudragit® RS PO plasticized with methylparaben, which could be ascribed to an interaction between the hydroxyl group of the methylparaben and the ester group of the Eudragit® RS PO polymer. The results of this study demonstrated that methylparaben could be used as a solid-state plasticizer for the Eudragit® RS PO polymer when a hot melt extrusion technique was employed in the preparation of sustained release tablets.
Simplified quantitative electron microscopy of biopolymers

Shape and molecular weight of DNA can be obtained with a new method involving spontaneous surface adsorption of DNA or of other macromolecules from a solution which contains formaldehyde and a critical amount of cytochrome c. Subsequent transfer to specimen grids and electron microscopy shows individual molecules suitable for quantitative evaluation. Adsorption of DNA and fd bacteriophages is proportional to (time)0.75. Contour lengths of double-stranded DNA are not influenced by formaldehyde. A modification of this method requires only 2 × 10−5 μg DNA.
Spatial localization using interfering photon density waves: contrast enhancement and limitations

In most of the optical methods proposed for imaging an absorbing object embedded in a turbid medium, data is collected using a single source and detector scanned mechanically across the surface of the medium. In this study we exploited destructive interference of diffusive photon- density waves originating from two sources to localize one absorbing (or fluorescent) object in a scattering medium. A frequency-domain instrument is described for scanning several laser- beam spots across the surface of a turbid medium using 1D (or 2D) acousto-optical deflectors and detecting the signals with a gated, intensified CCD camera at a modulation frequency of 246 MHz. The localization of multiple objects arranged in the form of a spatial grating was investigated theoretically with an analytic model by combining the magnitude and phase of the signals detected from the objects. A novel grating pattern comprising several destructively interfering lines, which acts as spatial frequency filter, is discussed. The results were compared with those obtained using a single-source/single-detector scanning configuration. We show that the FWHM (full-width half-maximum) of the signal detected using the single- source/single-detector configuration establishes a limiting spatial scale over which multiple objects can be resolved. Beyond this limit the resolution can only be increased under severe penalty of contrast and signal loss.
Retention behavior of long chain quaternary ammonium homologues and related nitroso-alkylmethylamines

Abstract Several chromatographic methods have been utilized to study the retention behavior of a homologous series of n-alkylbenzyldimethylammonium chlorides (ABDAC) and the corresponding nitroso-n-alkylmethylamines (NAMA). Linear correlation of the logarithmic capacity factor (k′) with the number of carbons in the alkyl chain provides useful information on both gas chromatographic (GC) and high-performance liquid chromatographich (HPLC) retention parameters of unknown components. Under all conditions empolyed, GC methodology has proved effective in achieving complete resolution of the homologous mixture of NMA despite its obvious inadequacy in the separation of EZ configurational isomers. Conversely, normal-phase HPLC on silica demonstrates that the selectivity (α) value for an EZ pair is much higher than that for an adjacent homologous pair. In the reversed-phase HPLC study, three different silica-based column systems were examined under various mobile phase conditions. The extent of variation in k′ was found to be a function of the organic modifier, counter-ion concentration, eluent pH, nature of counter-ion, and the polarity and type of stationary phase. The k′—[NaClO4] profiles showed similar trends between the ABDAC and the NAMA series, supporting the dipolar electronic structures of the latter compounds. Mobile phase and stationary phase effects on component separation are described. The methodology presented establishes the utility of HPLC separation techniques as versatile analytical tools for practical application.
Increasing CO2 and plant-plant interactions: effects on natural vegetation

Plant species and functional groups of species show marked differences in photosynthesis and growth in relation to rising atmospheric CO2 concentrations through the range of the 30 % increase of there cent past and the 100 % increase since the last glaciation. A large shift was found in the compositional mix of 26 species of C3’s and 17 species of C4’s grown from a native soil seed bank in a competitive mode along a CO2 gradient that approximated the CO2 increase of the past 150 years and before. The biomass of C3’s increased from near zero to 50 % of the total while that of the C4’s was reduced 25 % as CO2 levels approached current ambient. The proposition that acclimation to rising CO2 will largely negate the fertilization effect of higher CO2 levels on C3’s is not supported. No signs of photo synthetic acclimation were evident for Avena sativa, Prosopis glandulosa, and Schizachyrium scoparium plants grown in subambient CO2. The effects of changing CO2 levels on vegetation since the last glaciation are thought to have been at least as great, if not greater, than those which should be expected for a doubling of current CO2 levels. Atmospheric CO2 concentrations below 200 ppm are thought to have been instrumental in the rise of the C4 grasslands of North America and other extensive C4 grasslands and savannas of the world. Dramatic invasion of these areas by woody C3 species are accompanying the historical increase in atmospheric CO2 concentration now in progress.
Sourcing strategy and cross-organizational career development

IT departments have gone through many ups and downs in recruiting IT talent due to changes in the focus of IT departments over the last three decades, from back-office application development to strategic exploration of applications/technologies today. Complicating the recruitment and retention of IT talent may include several factors such as: Rapid changes in technologies and the lag between the talent needs and educational institutions' ability to provide this talentThe evolving sourcing (outsourcing as well as insourcing trends) and how it disrupts a reasonable career development path for professional growth for new IT recruitsSignificant amount of IT investment is tied to the maintenance of current infrastructure and staying current with the changing technology related threats (e.g. security) and opportunities (e.g. social media) calls for different types of talent that is becoming hard to recruit and retainLack of effective knowledge retention or management strategies to capture the expertise of those that leave an IT departmentLoss of knowledge associated with application/technology that has been outsourced to external partnersInadequate resource and time needed to support the development of talent as they seek to professionally grow, and others
Experimental measurement of the effects of torque on the dynamic behavior and system parameters of planetary gears

Abstract Experiments designed to capture the independent motion of spur planetary gear components show the influence of mean operating torque on system parameters and dynamic response. All natural frequencies increase with higher torque, but the natural frequencies of modes with significant planet bearing deflection are particularly sensitive to torque. Current lumped-parameter models do not consider the anisotropic nature of planet bearing stiffnesses, but this research shows that the accuracy of these models is increased when the radial and tangential planet bearing stiffness components are calculated separately. These bearing stiffnesses depend on the mean bearing forces in the two directions. A finite element/contact mechanics model provides accurate calculation of the anisotropic, load-dependent planet bearing stiffnesses and the load-dependent mesh stiffnesses. An analytical model using these values accurately predicts changes in the experimentally measured natural frequencies of modes with high strain energy in the planet bearings for varying mean torque. Experiments also show changes in the mode shapes and damping ratios with changing torque.
Circadian rhythmicity in susceptibility of mice to sublethal Coxsackie B3 infection.

We have reported a circadian periodicity of mortality following exposure of mice to equal numbers of proliferating Diplococcus pneumoniae at different times of day1 and these findings have been confirmed by other investigators2,3. We report here a daily rhythmicity in the susceptibility of mice to Coxsackie B3 virus.
Coronary events in world leaders.

Girardi and colleagues' report in this issue suggests that most world leaders remain in power after a coronary event. In the United States, a president's physician, along with a White House physici...
Dynamic Finite Element Analysis of an Elastic-Plastic Half-Space Indented by a Rigid Sphere

Dynamic indentation of an elastic-plastic half-space by a rigid sphere was studied with the finite element method. A parametric analysis was performed to examine the effects of indentation velocity and yield strength of the half-space material on dynamic contact deformation. Velocity effects are discussed in the context of simulation results of global and local contact parameters, such as mean contact pressure, contact area, and equivalent plastic strain. The evolution of deformation as the material response transitions from elastic to fully-plastic deformation during dynamic contact is interpreted in light of numerical results. This study elucidates the effect of dynamic contact loading on the deformation behavior of elastic-plastic materials for a wide range of length scales where a continuum mechanics description holds.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Eliminating analgesic meperidine use with a supported formulary restriction.

PURPOSE: Meperidine is a commonly used analgesic despite unique disadvantages compared with other opioid analgesics. The objective of this study was to measure the effects of a meperidine formulary restriction on the prescribing of parenteral opioid analgesics. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was performed at a single 750-bed tertiary care teaching hospital in Rochester, NY. The formulary restriction limited meperidine to use exclusively for rigors or procedural sedation and was supported by an educational initiative and a computerized order entry system. Independent computerized pharmacy records were used to capture all doses of parenteral morphine, meperidine, and hydromorphone administered to patients in the emergency department or on a medical or surgical inpatient floor during data-collection periods. Baseline data were collected during two 3-day periods before the formulary restriction; then comparison data were collected during three 3-day periods over 15 months after the formulary restriction. RESULTS: The number of administered doses of meperidine per day decreased from 37.5 (20.8% of parenteral opioid doses before the restriction) to 0.22 (0.1% of parenteral opioid doses, P = .001). The total number of opioid doses and morphine doses given did not change, whereas the number of hydromorphone doses increased significantly postrestriction, from 16.0 doses per day (8.9% of total) to 59.7 doses per day (29.5%) (P = .009). CONCLUSION: Meperidine formulary restriction, supported by an educational program and computerized order entry, effectively eliminated analgesic meperidine use. Hydromorphone use increased proportionately to offset the decreased use of meperidine.
Native homing endonucleases can target conserved genes in humans and in animal models

In recent years, both homing endonucleases (HEases) and zinc-finger nucleases (ZFNs) have been engineered and selected for the targeting of desired human loci for gene therapy. However, enzyme engineering is lengthy and expensive and the off-target effect of the manufactured endonucleases is difficult to predict. Moreover, enzymes selected to cleave a human DNA locus may not cleave the homologous locus in the genome of animal models because of sequence divergence, thus hampering attempts to assess the in vivo efficacy and safety of any engineered enzyme prior to its application in human trials. Here, we show that naturally occurring HEases can be found, that cleave desirable human targets. Some of these enzymes are also shown to cleave the homologous sequence in the genome of animal models. In addition, the distribution of off-target effects may be more predictable for native HEases. Based on our experimental observations, we present the HomeBase algorithm, database and web server that allow a high-throughput computational search and assignment of HEases for the targeting of specific loci in the human and other genomes. We validate experimentally the predicted target specificity of candidate fungal, bacterial and archaeal HEases using cell free, yeast and archaeal assays.
A computational model for cerebral cortical dysfunction in autism spectrum disorders

Background Perturbations to the microscopic level balance between synaptic excitation and inhibition and neuron organization in the cerebral cortex are suggested to underlie autism spectrum disorder (ASD) traits. The mechanism linking these perturbations to cognitive behaviors in ASD is unknown. This study strives to bridge this gap by generating clinically testable diagnostic and pharmacological predictions based on the effect of synaptic imbalance and neuron distribution on a computational local circuit model of the cerebral cortex. Methods We use a computational microscopic model of the cerebral cortex that incorporates N -methyl-D-aspartate and gamma-aminobutyric acid synaptic kinetics. We employ the model circuit during model tasks similar to visually guided and gap oculomotor saccade tasks and interpret qualitative model predictions of saccade hypometria and dysmetria. We consider the effects of varying the excitatory to inhibitory synaptic balance, neuron density, and neuron clustering in this model. Results An increase of synaptic excitation over synaptic inhibition results in increased hypometria and dysmetria. Similar effects by either reduced inhibition or increased excitation suggest that a variety of pharmacological compounds can be used for both screening and medical management. On the other hand, any change to the microscopic neuron anatomy that increases the effective maximum distance between excitatory neurons decreases hypometria but has no affect on dysmetria. Conclusions Perturbations to a computational model of a local cerebral cortical circuit can account for saccade hypometria and dysmetria reported in ASD studies. This approach may provide a direct link between cerebral cortical function and ASD behaviors.
Stabilizability and stable-proper factorizations for linear time-varying systems

The objective of this paper is to study in detail stabilizability and stable-proper factorizations for linear time-varying discrete-time systems. Our main results are: (i) If a linear-time-varying system can be stabilized by dynamic state feedback, then it can also be stabilized by memoryless state feedback. (ii) A complete characterization of the existence of stable-proper factorizations for linear time-varying input/output operators. This characterization is nontrivial; there exist input/output operators that do not admit stable-proper factorizations.
Decreased fibrinolytic potential in patients with idiopathic avascular necrosis and transient osteoporosis of the hip.

A thrombotic etiology has been suggested as the cause of idiopathic avascular necrosis of the hip, although the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms are unknown. Transient osteoporosis of the hip has also been suggested to represent bone marrow edema that may be related to ischemia. We evaluated four patients with idiopathic avascular necrosis and one patient with transient osteoporosis of the hip for thrombotic potential placing a special emphasis on the fibrinolytic system. All five patients had identifiable abnormalities of fibrinolysis. Four patients had elevated levels of plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI-1) and one patient had an inadequate increase in tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) post venous occlusion. Serum triglycerides were increased in three of the patients. These findings suggest an association between decreased fibrinolytic potential and the subsequent development of avascular necrosis and transient osteoporosis of the hip. These patients should have an evaluation of the fibrinolytic system with tPA and PAI-1 levels as well as a lipid profile. © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Acid-Based Parameters on pH-Impedance Testing Predict Symptom Improvement With Medical Management Better Than Impedance Parameters

Acid-Based Parameters on pH-Impedance Testing Predict Symptom Improvement With Medical Management Better Than Impedance Parameters
Modernizing Natural History: Berkeley’s Museum of Vertebrate Zoology in Transition

Throughout the twentieth century calls to modernize natural history motivated a range of responses. It was unclear how research in natural history museums would participate in the significant technological and conceptual changes that were occurring in the life sciences. By the 1960s, the Museum of Vertebrate Zoology at the University of California, Berkeley, was among the few university-based natural history museums that were able to maintain their specimen collections and support active research. The MVZ therefore provides a window to the modernization of natural history. This paper concentrates on the directorial transitions that occurred at the MVZ between 1965 and 1971. During this period, the MVZ had four directors: Alden H. Miller (Director 1940-1965), an ornithologist; Aldo Starker Leopold (Acting Director 1965-1966), a conservationist and wildlife biologist; Oliver P. Pearson (Director 1966-1971), a physiologist and mammalogist; and David B. Wake (Director 1971-1998), a morphologist, developmental biologist, and herpetologist. The paper explores how a diversity of overlapping modernization strategies, including hiring new faculty, building infrastructure to study live animals, establishing new kinds of collections, and building modern laboratories combined to maintain collections at the MVZ's core. The paper examines the tensions between the different modernization strategies to inform an analysis of how and why some changes were institutionalized while others were short-lived. By exploring the modernization of collections-based research, this paper emphasizes the importance of collections in the transformation of the life sciences.
In the eyes of the beholder: student interpretations of sexuality lessons

This exploratory study examines student interpretations of pleasure and danger messages about sex in sexuality lesson plans. Scripting theory suggests that students do not simply hear and enact sexual scripts presented to them in sexuality education, but instead actively interpret, revise, weigh and attach meaning to these messages. We conducted a qualitative content analysis of student essays that responded to four sexuality education lesson plans. Our data show that, regardless of the content of the lessons, the interpretations of the pleasure and danger messages vary widely, with some students interpreting a lesson as completely danger‐focused, others interpreting it as completely pleasure‐focused and still others arguing its objectivity. We discuss several themes evident in the data that suggest reasons for this variation. We conclude that understanding the complex process of interpreting sex education messages is important to understanding how to make sex education maximally effective.
Rapid shallow breathing index – a key predictor for noninvasive ventilation

The rapid shallow breathing index (RSBI) is the ratio determined by the frequency (f) divided by the tidal volume (VT). An RSBI <105 has been widely accepted by healthcare professionals as a criteria for weaning to extubation and has been integrated into most mechanical ventilation weaning protocols. We hypothesized that the converse of using the RSBI for weaning might be useful in predicting the need for noninvasive ventilation. Advancements in technology have made it easier to accurately attain bedside RSBI measurements. The purpose of this study was to ascertain a threshold value of RSBI that could predict the need for noninvasive ventilation (NIV) in patients presenting with acute respiratory distress to the critical care area (Cat 1) in the emergency department.
Changes in hemodynamics after rescue surfactant administration.

Objective To evaluate the hemodynamic changes occurring after rescue surfactant dosing in relation to the clinical respiratory response in preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome. Study design We studied 20 infants who received surfactant (poractant alfa) after failing continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) beyond 2 h of life. Consecutive echocardiograms were performed before the surfactant dose, 10 min after and 1 h after the surfactant dose. Superior vena cava flow, right ventricular output, atrial and patent ductus arteriosus diameter and direction of shunting were measured. A surfactant responder (SR) was defined as an infant whose inspired fraction of oxygen was reduced to air (0.21) by 3 h after surfactant administration. A surfactant non-responder (SNR) was defined as an infant who remained on more than 0.21 at 3 h postsurfactant administration. Concurrent physiological parameters (heart rate, transcutaneous CO2, mean arterial blood pressure, mean airway pressure) were also recorded. Subject characteristics were compared relative to noted hemodynamic effects. Results Of the 20 infants enrolled in the study, 12 were SR. These infants received surfactant earlier and had increased measures of systemic blood flow after receipt of surfactant compared with baseline. SNR did not have changes in systemic blood flow from baseline after surfactant dosing. There was no change in ductal shunting or atrial shunting between the two groups. Conclusions A good clinical response to rescue surfactant is seen in infants who received surfactant earlier and is associated with increase in systemic blood flow. Timing of rescue surfactant administration needs to be further evaluated in larger prospective studies.
Uptake rate constants and partition coefficients for vapor phase organic chemicals using semipermeable membrane devices (SPMDs)

Abstract To fully utilize semipermeable membrane devices (SPMDs) as passive samplers in air monitoring, data are required to accurately estimate airborne concentrations of environmental contaminants. Limited uptake rate constants (kua) and no SPMD air partitioning coefficient (Ksa) existed for vapor-phase contaminants. This research was conducted to expand the existing body of kinetic data for SPMD air sampling by determining kua and Ksa for a number of airborne contaminants including the chemical classes: polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, organochlorine pesticides, brominated diphenyl ethers, phthalate esters, synthetic pyrethroids, and organophosphate/organosulfur pesticides. The kuas were obtained for 48 of 50 chemicals investigated and ranged from 0.03 to 3.07 m3 g−1 d−1. In cases where uptake was approaching equilibrium, Ksas were approximated. Ksa values (no units) were determined or estimated for 48 of the chemicals investigated and ranging from 3.84E+5 to 7.34E+7. This research utilized a test system (United States Patent 6,877,724 B1) which afforded the capability to generate and maintain constant concentrations of vapor-phase chemical mixtures. The test system and experimental design employed gave reproducible results during experimental runs spanning more than two years. This reproducibility was shown by obtaining mean kua values (n = 3) of anthracene and p,p′-DDE at 0.96 and 1.57 m3 g−1 d−1 with relative standard deviations of 8.4% and 8.6% respectively.
PHOTONIC BAND STRUCTURES OF TWO-DIMENSIONAL SYSTEMS CONTAINING METALLIC COMPONENTS

By use of the plane-wave method, we calculate the photonic band structure for electromagnetic waves of E and H polarization propagating in a system consisting of an infinite array of identical, infinitely long, parallel, metal cylinders of circular cross section, embedded in vacuum, whose intersection with a perpendicular plane forms a simple square or triangular lattice. The dielectric function of the metal from which the cylinders are formed has the simple, free-electron form \ensuremath{\epsilon}(\ensuremath{\omega})=1-(${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\omega}}}_{\mathit{p}}^{2}$/${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\omega}}}^{2}$), where ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\omega}}}_{\mathit{p}}$ is the plasma frequency of the conduction electrons. For electromagnetic waves of both polarizations, the problem of obtaining the photonic band structure is reduced to the solution of a standard eigenvalue problem despite the frequency dependence of the dielectric constant of the two-dimensional, periodic system. For electromagnetic waves of E polarization the photonic band structure at low filling fractions of the metallic cylinders is a slightly perturbed version of the dispersion curves of electromagnetic waves in vacuum, except for the appearance of a band gap below the lowest frequency band, whose width increases with increasing filling fraction. A band gap between the first and second bands is present in the photonic band structure of the square lattice, but no band gap is found in the band structure of the triangular lattice. In the case of electromagnetic waves of H polarization the photonic band structure at low filling fractions of the metallic cylinders is also, for the most part, a slightly perturbed version of the dispersion curves of electromagnetic waves in vacuum, but possesses additional, nearly dispersionless, bands in the frequency range \ensuremath{\omega}${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\omega}}}_{\mathit{p}}$. A possible origin of these flat bands is described.
Dissociation of Granulation and Epithelization in Wounds of Rabbits by Means of Topically Applied Hydrocortisone1

The belief that physiologically the epidermis and dermis are intimately related is supported by the concomitant changes which take place in both of these layers during the phases of hair growth and their various responses to injury (1). In experiments where an area of skin has been surgically removed, the process of healing has been found to begin with the growth of granulation tissue, over which the epithelium later migrates (2, 3).
HIV knowledge and risk behaviors among women in law enforcement in Bogota, Colombia: Potential role as community Educators

As HIV infection is increasing among women, evaluation, prevention, and education campaigns need to target this vulnerable population, Because of their frequent and accepted contact with members of the community, female law officers, if knowledgeable, could be well suited to provide information/education related to HIV/STD transmission. A survey of HIV/AIDS knowledge and risk behaviors was administered to 120 law enforcement women (LEW) and 60 women from the general population (GPW) in Bogota, Colombia. LEW indicated a very high (90%) understanding of basic HIV knowledge. Although most (52%) of the LEW did not report high-risk behaviors, 29% indicated having unprotected sex during menses, and 17% had unprotected anal sex. This contrasts, however, with GPW, who were of similar age, but had a significantly higher prevalence (73%) of risky behaviors (P=.004). Moreover, 52% of the GPW reported having unprotected anal sex, and approximately half of this group (55%) indicated having unprotected sex during menses. Alcohol and drug users were also more prevalent in the GPW: 14% frequently used alcohol and 3% inhaled drugs during sexual encounters, contrasted to 2% of LEW reporting alcohol use. GPW were four times more likely than LEW, to engage in high-risk sexual practices [95% confidence interval (CI)=1.9–10.4, P=0.034]. Multivariate analyses indicated that alcohol and/or drug use were significantly associated with high-risk sexual practices [odds ratio (OR)=4.7, 95% confidence intervals (CI)=1.3–18.4, P=.02). Improved educational HIV/AIDS programs are needed, particularly for women in the general population, who use alcohol/drugs during sexual encounters, which account, at least in part, for their high-risk behaviors. Women in law enforcement, who appear knowledgeable and exhibit safer behaviors, could be useful educators for GPW. Because of their professional role in the community, training for LEW in HIV/AIDS education/prevention programs should be considered.
Development and Validation of the Health Competence Beliefs Inventory in Young Adults With and Without a History of Childhood Cancer

Background Adolescent and young adult survivors of childhood cancer are a vulnerable population. Health beliefs may be related to necessary follow-up care.
Modulation of apoptosis during herpes simplex virus infection in human cells

Human herpes simplex virus (HSV) is cytolytic and has profound impacts on its host cells. Consequences of HSV infection include the induction of apoptosis and the concomitant synthesis of proteins which act to block this process. We review recent evidence showing how this important human pathogen modulates the fundamental cell death process.
Multiple target detection through DFT processing in a sequential mode operation of real or synthetic arrays

A multiple target detection technique based on the discrete processing of data collected in a sequential mode operation is presented. In this approach, the firing of the elements is sequential, with one or more elements receiving. The data are collected over all the existing (n/sub 1/, n/sub 2/) paths. An information sequence is computed by combining equiphase data. After windowing, interpolation, and fast Fourier transform (FFT) processing, a scatterer is detected as a peak in the amplitude spectrum. No phase-shifting or tapering hardware is needed. Three examples are presented: (1) a real array operating in parallel mode, (2) a real array operating in sequential mode, and (3) a synthetic array operating in sequential mode. Discrete Fourier transform (DFT) processing in sequential mode significantly improves the detection performance. >
Simulating heterogeneous crowd behaviors using personality trait theory

We present a new technique to generate heterogeneous crowd behaviors using personality trait theory. Our formulation is based on adopting results of a user study to derive a mapping from crowd simulation parameters to the perceived behaviors of agents in computer-generated crowd simulations. We also derive a linear mapping between simulation parameters and personality descriptors corresponding to the well-established Eysenck Three-factor personality model. Furthermore, we propose a novel two-dimensional factorization of perceived personality in crowds based on a statistical analysis of the user study results. Finally, we demonstrate that our mappings and factorizations can be used to generate heterogeneous crowd behaviors in different settings.
Attitudes Toward Mental Health Services in Hispanic Older Adults: The Role of Misconceptions and Personal Beliefs

Focusing on misconceptions and personal beliefs associated with depression, the present study explored predictors of attitudes toward mental health services in a sample of 297 Hispanic older adults living in public housing (M age = 76.0 years, SD = 7.74). Results from a hierarchical regression analysis showed that negative attitudes towards mental health services were predicted by advanced age, belief that having depression would make family members disappointed, and belief that counseling brings too many bad feelings such as anger and sadness. Findings suggest that interventions designed to promote positive attitudes toward mental health services of older Hispanics should address misconceptions and personal beliefs.
DAMAGE BY VISIBLE LIGHT TO THE BILIRUBIN-DNA COMPLEX

The effects of new environmental agents on child health is a subject of considerable interest. Of special concern are the long-term effects of such agents and more specifically their carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, and teratogenicity which is a function of their ability to modify cellular DNA. The purpose of this study is to determine the effects of bilirubin and/or its photodecomposition products on the ultra-structural arrangement of the DNA molecule. Mammalian and bacterial DNA solutions were illuminated under a phototherapy unit (Vita-Lite), 2μW/cm2 in the 410-500 nm wavelength band for 6 hours in the presence or absence of bllirubin. Bilirubin was found to form a complex with the DNA molecule and in the presence of light there results: (1) a decrease in the sedimentation coefficient of the DNA, (2) an increase in the thermal denaturation temperature and (3) no significant change in the buoyant density. These findings suggest that the bilirubin-DNA complex results from the intercalation of the bilirubin between the DNA strands. Upon irradiation the bilirubin is activated and this is accompanied by a cleavage of phosphodiester bonds which maintain the DNA structure. Studies on the mutagenicity of bilirubin and its photodegradation products are proceeding. These observations emphasize the importance of long-term follow-up in children with hyperbilirubinemia treated with phototherapy.
Multiscale analysis of composite materials and structures

Abstract The manuscript presents a nonlinear multiscale computational procedure based on the philosophy of multilevel methods and which exploits the similarity between the classical engineering global–local design practice and multilevel methods. Both approaches separate the system response into the global and local effects. While classical substructuring-based schemes separate the global and local effects on the basis of domain decomposition principles often resorting to intuition and understanding the physics of the problem, multilevel approaches, carry out de facto a spectral decomposition automatically as part of the solution process. Seven multiscale problems were considered to validate the present formulation.
Wild-Type MIC Distributions and Epidemiological Cutoff Values for Posaconazole and Voriconazole and Candida spp. as Determined by 24-Hour CLSI Broth Microdilution

We tested 16,191 strains of Candida against posaconazole and voriconazole, using the CLSI M27-A3 broth microdilution (BMD) method (24-h incubation), in order to define wild-type (WT) populations and epidemiological cutoff values (ECVs). From 2001 to 2009, 8,619 isolates of Candida albicans, 2,415 isolates of C. glabrata, 2,278 isolates of C. parapsilosis, 1,895 isolates of C. tropicalis, 508 isolates of C. krusei, 205 isolates of C. lusitaniae, 177 isolates of C. guilliermondii, and 93 isolates of C. kefyr were obtained from over 100 centers worldwide. The modal MICs (μg/ml) for posaconazole and voriconazole, respectively, were as follows: for C. albicans, 0.016 and 0.007; for C. glabrata, 0.5 and 0.06; for C. parapsilosis, 0.06 and 0.007; for C. tropicalis, 0.03 and 0.015; for C. krusei, 0.25 and 0.12; for C. lusitaniae, 0.03 and 0.007; for C. guilliermondii, 0.12 and 0.03; and for C. kefyr, 0.06 and 0.007. The ECVs (μg/ml [% of isolates that had MICs equal to or less than the ECV]) for posaconazole and voriconazole, respectively, were as follows: 0.06 (98.5) and 0.03 (98.9) for C. albicans, 2 (96.2) and 0.5 (90.4%) for C. glabrata, 0.25 (99.3) and 0.12 (97.9) for C. parapsilosis, 0.12 (97.6) and 0.06 (97.2) for C. tropicalis, 0.5 (99.8) and 0.5 (99.4) for C. krusei, 0.12 (95.6) and 0.03 (96.6) for C. lusitaniae, 0.5 (98.9) and 0.25 (98.3) for C. guilliermondii, and 0.25 (100.0) and 0.015 (100.0) for C. kefyr. In the absence of clinical breakpoints (CBPs) for posaconazole, these WT distributions and ECVs will be useful in surveillance for emergence of reduced susceptibility to posaconazole among Candida spp. Whereas a CBP for susceptibility of ≤1 μg/ml has been established for voriconazole and all species of Candida, it is notable that ECVs for this agent range from 10- to >100-fold lower than the CBP, depending on the species of Candida. The CBP is inadequate in detecting the emergence of voriconazole resistance among most Candida species encountered clinically. The CBPs for voriconazole should be reassessed, with consideration for development of species-specific CBPs.
In situ X-ray Investigation of Hydrogen Charging in Thin Film Bimetallic Electrodes

Hydrogen uptake and discharge by thin metallic films under potentiostatic control was studied using x-ray diffraction at the National Synchrotron Light Source (NSLS). The formation of metal-hydrogen phases in Pd, Pd-capped Nb and Pd/Nb multilayer electrode structures was deduced from x-ray diffraction data and correlated with the cyclic voltammetry (CV) peaks. The x-ray data was also used to construct a plot of the hydrogen concentration as a function of cell potential for a multilayered thin film. {copyright} {ital 1997 Materials Research Society.}
Androgen-dependent protein interactions within an intron 1 regulatory region of the 20-kDa protein gene

The 20-kDa protein gene is androgen regulated in rat ventral prostate. Intron 1 contains a 130-base pair complex response element (D2) that binds androgen (AR) and glucocorticoid receptor (GR) but transactivates only with AR in transient cotransfection assays in CV1 cells using the reporter vector D2-tkCAT. To better understand the function of this androgen-responsive unit, nuclear protein interactions with D2 were analyzed by DNase I footprinting in ventral prostate nuclei of intact or castrated rats andin vitro with ventral prostate nuclear protein extracts from intact, castrated, and testosterone-treated castrated rats. Multiple androgen-dependent protected regions and hypersensitive sites were identified in the D2 region with both methods. Mobility shift assays with 32P-labeled oligonucleotides spanning D2 revealed specific interactions with ventral prostate nuclear proteins. Four of the D2-protein complexes decreased in intensity within 24 h of castration. UV cross-linking of the androgen-dependent DNA binding proteins identified protein complexes of approximately 140 and 55 kDa. The results demonstrate androgen-dependent nuclear protein-DNA interactions within the complex androgen response element D2.