cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Aggressive intrapartum management of lethal fetal anomalies: Beyond fetal beneficence

Objective To evaluate management recommendations from the current literature for patients whose fetuses are certain to have lethal anomalies or absent (or virtually absent) cognitive function. These recommendations include termination of pregnancy or, for cases in the third trimester, nonaggressive intrapartum management, avoiding cesarean delivery for fetal indications. Methods We report our experience with several patients who voiced opposition to nonaggressive intrapartum care and present a rationale for selectively aggressive, intrapartum management for some of these cases. Results Four women whose fetuses had lethal anomalies requested aggressive intrapartum management. for three of the four, standard aggressive management of labor resulted in vaginal delivery of live-born infants who died shortly thereafter. The patients found comfort in the live births. The fourth patient accepted a recommendation to avoid fetal monitoring during labor, and the fetus was stillborn. This patient found the intrapartum experience to be very stressful. Conclusion When a patient's desire to avoid an intrapartum stillbirth is strong enough that substantial psychological harm might result from one, the physician's beneficencebased obligation to her and respect for maternal autonomy justify selectively aggressive intrapartum therapy, even if no beneficence-based obligation to the fetus exists.
Convolution tails, product tails and domains of attraction

A distribution function is said to have an exponential tail F(t) = F(t, ∞) if e αu F(t+u) is asymptotically equivalent to F(t), t→∞, t→∞, for all u. In this case F(lnt) is regularly varying. For two such distributions, F and G, the convolution H=F*G also has an exponential tail. We investigate the relationship between H and its components F and G, providing conditions for lim H/F to exist. In addition, we are able to describe the asymptotic nature of H when the limit is infinite, for many cases. This corresponds to determining both the domain of attraction and the norming constants for the product of independent variables whose distributions have regularly varying tails. In addition, we compare the tails of H=F*G with H 1=F 1*G 1when F is asymptotically equivalent to F and G is equivalent to G 1. Such a comparison corresponds to the “balancing” consideration for the product of independent variables in stable domains of attraction. We discover that there are several distinct comparisons possible.
Structure and growth of scales of yellow perch of Green Bay

Abstract The appearance of the scales of yellow perch differs with the location on the fish's body. Comparison of scales of Green Bay perch taken above and below the lateral line reveals the former to have more sharply defined circuli and to exhibit fewer false annuli and less of the shading that impedes accurate assessment of age. Estimates of age from modes in length-frequency distributions and from scale readings were the same for age-groups O, I, and II. Older age groups could not be detected in length distributions, but the similarity of all annuli makes it acceptable to conclude that the annulus is in fact a year-mark at ages beyond the II group. Scales of yellow perch may exhibit new growth in the latter part of May whereas others may not have started growing even in late July. The time of annulus formation varies with calendar year, with age (new growth starts earlier in the younger fish), and possibly with locality. Ages usually can be read from scales collected during the period of annulus forma...
Nanoengineered particles for enhanced intra-articular retention and delivery of proteins.

Localized intra-articular delivery of anti-inflammatory proteins can reduce inflammation in osteoarthritis but poses a challenge because of raid clearance within few hours of injection. A new class of polymer is developed that forms self-assembled nanoparticles ranging from 300 to 900 nm and demonstrates particle size dependent prolonged retention in intra-articular joint spaces compared to bolus protein over a period of 14 d.
Echo Virus Type 13. I. Isolation and Characteristics.

Summary1) The originally distributed ECHO-13 prototype virus, Hamphill 2–188–20 passage 7, is a mixture of ECHO virus types 1 and 13. ECHO-1 was found in higher titer than ECHO-13 during passage and only the former was isolated at terminal dilution. It was necessary to neutralize ECHO-1 virus with antiserum to demonstrate the presence of ECHO-13 in this mixture and this apparently did not alter its antigenic properties. ECHO-13 virus was successfully reisolated in pure form from the original rectal swab eluate after 4 years storage. 2) Plaque purified strains of reisolated 2–188–20 virus and a Del Carmen 11–4–1 virus isolate were examined as possible ECHO-13 prototypes. The plaque purified 11–4–1 strain produced a broader spectrum antiserum in monkeys in early test bleedings and produced a higher infectivity titer in MKCC. It has been accepted as prototype ECHO-13 by the Committee on Enteroviruses. 3) The biologic properties of ECHO-13 virus in certain animals, chick embryos, cell culture and cell culture...
High pressure polymerization of perfluorostyrene

Abstract Perfluorostyrene was prepared by reaction between pentafluorophenyllithium and tetrafluoroethylene and its physical behavior and thermal polymerization were studied in the temperature and pressure ranges 17-155° and 6800-20 000 atm respectively. When highly superpressed the monomer becomes viscous and often glassy. The polymerization rates range from 10 -3 to more than 10 2 per cent h -1 . They generally increase with temperature and pressure. Polymer intrinsic viscosities range from 0.07 to 0.41 dlg -1 . In liquid phase polymerizations they increase with pressure and decrease with temperature. In the glassy phase, polymer of lower intrinsic viscosity is formed; in the crystalline phase, higher polymer is formed.
The “Blurring” of Special Education in a New Continuum of General Education Placements and Services:

For nearly 10 years, the response-to-intervention (RTI) policy initiative has engendered enthusiasm at federal, state, and local levels and among various stakeholders. Nevertheless, there are basic and important disagreements about its nature and purpose. The authors describe two groups with contrasting perspectives on RTI in an effort to examine its multiple meanings, to argue that neither group has a credible plan to educate children and youth with severe learning needs, and to encourage all interested parties to think productively about what they want to accomplish in the name of RTI.
CRITICAL IN VITRO FACTORS IN EVALUATION OF GASTRIC ANTACIDS. I. POLYPEPTIDE INHIBITION.

In vitro investigation of a wide range of antacid materials contained in various commercially available dosage forms has indicated demonstrable differences in both the degree and rate of neutralization and in buffering capacities. Results obtained by using pH-titration curves reveal that the type of dosage form exerts an influence on the antacid properties of the same chemical compound. Inhibition of antacid activity of some compounds was observed when polypeptides were added to the artificial gastric fluid. It is thus conceivable that antacid activity could be completely curtailed if similar conditions are encountered in the human system.
IEEE Fellows—Class of 2010 [Society Briefs]

Lists the IEEE Computational Intelligence Society members that were elevated to Fellow in 2010.
A double-barrel superficial temporal artery-to-superior cerebellar artery (STA–SCA) and STA-to-posterior cerebral artery (STA–PCA) bypass for revascularization of the basilar apex

Basilar apex aneurysms are challenging lesions for both microsurgical and endovascular therapy. In patients in whom direct clipping and coil embolization are not options, cerebral revascularization and occlusion of the basilar artery is a possible treatment strategy. We report a patient with a large basilar apex aneurysm treated by double-barrel anastomoses of the superficial temporal artery to the superior cerebellar artery (STA-SCA) and the STA to the posterior cerebral artery (STA-PCA) followed by occlusion of the basilar artery below the SCAs. A double-barrel bypass augments blood flow to the brainstem. We report a novel bypass option for augmenting blood flow to the basilar apex and brainstem.
In Silico Dynamics of Carbon Monoxide in the Active Site Pocket of Nitrogenase

The Nitrogenase enzyme system catalyzes the reduction of dinitrogen (N2) to, the more biologically utilizable, ammonia at the site of an unusual [Fe7S9MoC] cofactor named "FeMo-co". The mechanism of enzymatic nitrogen fixation remains a mystery due to the transient nature of the reaction intermediates, and many investigators have sought to look at the reversible inhibitor carbon monoxide (CO) as an analogue to the dynamics and kinetics of the natural substrate. Previous work has proposed that a μ2-CO can bind to the Fe-2 and Fe-6 of a 4Fe-4S (Fe-[2,3,6,7]) face of FeMo-co, and dependent on binding conditions, as a terminal ligand. We investigated the ligand-active site dynamics around FeMo-co for CO using the molecular dynamics package GROMACS, for both wild type and key residue mutants. The purpose of investigation was to determine: if the Fe-2 or Fe-6 served as a more sterically accessible binding site for terminal CO, the location of any active site pockets to trap CO near FeMo-co, and to probe the dynamics of the proximal gas channel entrance to the active site. The results of this research can be used to improve the existing model for reversible CO inhibition dynamics of Nitrogenase. Furthermore, these data will lead to new kinetics experiments involving CO and in vitro active site mutagenesis. Finally, our conclusions can be abstracted to provide clues about the short-lived active site behavior of the substrate N2.
Bilateral hearing loss as a manifestation of neuromyelitis optica.

A 54-year-old woman with definite neuromyelitis optica (NMO) presented with bilateral hearing loss that progressed to complete deafness over 2 days. Otoscopy, tympanometry, otoacoustic emission testing, and brainstem auditory evoked potentials (figure 1) were consistent with central lesions bilaterally. MRI showed T2 hyperintensities and restricted diffusion near the cochlear nuclei, more prominent on the right (figure 2). Hearing loss resolved after administration of IV methylprednisolone followed by plasmapheresis. The cochlear nuclei are located in the dorsal medulla, adjacent to the fourth ventricle. Such periventricular regions highly express aquaporin-4 and have been implicated as sites of brain involvement in NMO.1,2
Identification and analysis of keratin polypeptides from isolated rat vaginal epithelium.

Under the influence of estradiol, the vaginal epithelium undergoes a process of growth and differentiation known as cornification. To analyze the biosynthetic changes that underlie this phenomenon in rats, it was necessary to first isolate the vaginal epithelium from hormonally stimulated animals. This was accomplished by two different methods: enzymatic digestion with a trypsin/pancreatin solution, which produced a disaggregated population of cells from the living epithelial layers; or disruption of basement membrane adhesion with a chaotropic salt solution (2 m NaSCN), which produced intact, full thickness tissue sheets. Extended extraction of the cells and sheets with an alkaline urea buffer followed by analysis of these extracts on denaturing polyacrylamide gels revealed that both preparations contained six major polypeptides in the mol wt range of 50,000–60,000 daltons. Differential solubilization indicated that these proteins are keratin subunits, and amino acid analysis confirmed this for the 53,00...
Central pattern generating and recognizing in olfactory bulb: A correlation learning rule

Abstract A learning rule called an input correlation rule that can simplify exploration of the behavior of learning, generating, and classifying patterns in the vertebrate olfactory system is proposed. We apply this correlation rule to a set of fully interconnected coupled oscillators that comprises a dynamical model of the olfactory bulb so as to form “templates” of oscillators with strengthened interconnection in respect to inputs classed as “learned.” We obtain a content addressable memory in which phase coherent oscillation provides for central pattern generation and recognition. We use this analog model neural network to simulate dynamic features of the olfactory bulb in detail by numerical integration and multivariate analysis. The model classifies 100% correctly for incomplete inputs, testing inputs about their training centroids, and distortion by noise that is defined as input to nontemplate elements. The model also allows substantially overlapping templates, which implies that it possesses a large information capacity. For multiple inputs the model gives correct output of the forms A and B, A and not B, B and not A, or neither. The initial conditions of the model at the time of onset of input play no role in classification. Classification is achieved within 20 to 50 ms of simulated run time, even though convergence to a limit cycle requires up to 10 cycles (200 ms). The repetition rate of convergence from one pattern to the next in the model exceeds 10 patterns/s.
Interfacial Structure, Thermodynamics, and Electrostatics of Aqueous Methanol Solutions via Molecular Dynamics Simulations Using Charge Equilibration Models

We present results from molecular dynamics simulations of methanol−water solutions using charge equilibration force fields to explicitly account for nonadditive electronic interaction contributions to the potential energy. We study solutions across the concentration range from 0.1 to 0.9 methanol mole fraction. At dilute concentrations, methanol density is enhanced at the liquid−vapor interface, consistent with previous molecular dynamics and experimental studies. Interfacial thickness exhibits a monotonic increase with increasing methanol mole fraction, while surface tensions display monotonic decrease with methanol concentration, in qualitative agreement with experimental data and previous molecular dynamics predictions using polarizable force fields. In terms of interfacial structure, in keeping with predictions of traditional force fields, there is a unique preferential orientation of methanol molecules at the interface. Moreover, there is a free energetic preference for methanol molecules at the inte...
Examining the influence of cross‐cultural training on cultural intelligence and specific self‐efficacy

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between cultural intelligence (CQ) and specific self‐efficacy (SSE), and the effect of training on CQ and SSE.Design/methodology/approach – Pre and post‐test surveys were administered to 110 US government contracting trainees, in four separate training settings, to measure the effects of training on mean CQ and SSE scores. Two administrations included pre and post‐test surveys. One was designed as a post‐test only, while the fourth was taken from 25 contracting officers in a recurring training setting. Statistical analyses were performed through the use of t‐tests to measure the significance of the change in means across training classes.Findings – It was found that training using a lecture format significantly improved mean levels of CQ on the cognitive and behavioral dimensions, while less significantly improving motivational CQ. SSE scores from pre‐ to post‐training were also only marginally improved. An additional finding showed signif...
Symmetric and Asymmetric Structures of Hurricane Boundary Layer in Coupled Atmosphere–Wave–Ocean Models and Observations

AbstractIt is widely accepted that air–sea interaction is one of the key factors in controlling tropical cyclone (TC) intensity. However, the physical mechanisms for connecting the upper ocean and air–sea interface with storm structure through the atmospheric boundary layer in TCs are not well understood. This study investigates the air–sea coupling processes using a fully coupled atmosphere–wave–ocean model, especially the coupling-induced asymmetry in surface winds, sea surface temperature, air–sea fluxes, and their impacts on the structure of the hurricane boundary layer (HBL). Numerical experiments of Hurricane Frances (2004) with and without coupling to an ocean model and/or a surface wave model are used to examine the impacts of the ocean and wave coupling, respectively. Model results are compared with the airborne dropsonde and surface wind measurements on board the NOAA WP-3D aircraft. The atmosphere–ocean coupling reduces the mixed-layer depth in the rear-right quadrant due to storm-induced ocean...
Effect of lesion characteristics on outcome of directional coronary atherectomy

Abstract Directional coronary atherectomy, a new transluminal procedure for treatment of obstructive lesions in coronary arteries by excision and removal of tissue, was performed on 447 lesions in 382 procedures. Successful outcome, defined as a reduction of stenosis by ≥20% with a The atherectomy success rate was >80% and the combined atherectomy and angioplasty success rate was >90% for complex morphologic features such as eccentric lesions, lengthy lesions, lesions with abnormal contour, angulated lesions, ostial lesions and lesions with branch involvement. In the presence of calcific deposition, atherectomy success rate was 52% for primary lesions and 83% for restenosed lesions. Among angiographically complex lesions, calcium was the predictor for failed atherectomy (p In summary, directional coronary atherectomy is safe and effective for treatment of obstructive lesions in coronary arteries in selected cases. In particular, it achieves a high success rate in lesions with complex morphologic characteristics, such as eccentricity, abnormal contour and ostial involvement.
Ground surface scattering and clutter suppression in ground-penetrating radar applications

A scattering and imaging, clutter characterization and suppression study is carried out to demonstrate the feasibility of sensing buried targets in a terrain environment with a rough ground surface. The investigation is pertinent to detection performance analysis and prediction for a vehicle-based, ultra-wideband, ground-penetrating radar system. In the electromagnetic domain, the scattering response of the terrain scene is computed with a parallelized finite-difference time-domain solver; subsequent multistatic image formation is obtained with a time-reversal based approach. In the image domain, the distribution of the ground clutter is analyzed, and a statistical polarimetric clutter reduction method is applied to improve the signal-to-background ratio.
Network of flexible capacitive strain gauges for the reconstruction of surface strain

Monitoring of surface strain on mesosurfaces is a difficult task, often impeded by the lack of scalability of conventional sensing systems. A solution is to deploy large networks of flexible strain gauges, a type of large area electronics. The authors have recently proposed a soft elastomeric capacitor (SEC) as an economical skin-type solution for large-scale deployment onto mesosurfaces. The sensing principle is based on a measurable change in the sensor's capacitance upon strain. In this paper, we study the performance of the sensor at reconstructing surface strain map and deflection shapes. A particular feature of the sensor is that it measures surface strain additively, because it is not utilized within a Wheatstone bridge configuration. An algorithm is proposed to decompose the additive in-plane strain measurements from the SEC into principal components. The algorithm consists of assuming a polynomial shape function, and deriving the strain based on Kirchhoff plate theory. A least-squares estimator (LSE) is used to minimize the error between the assumed model and the SEC signals after the enforcement of boundary conditions. Numerical simulations are conducted on a symmetric rectangular cantilever thin plate under symmetric and asymmetric static loads to demonstrate the accuracy and real-time applicability of the algorithm. The performance of the algorithm is further examined on an asymmetric cantilever laminated thin plate constituted with orthotropic materials mimicking a wind turbine blade, and subjected to a non-stationary wind load. Results from simulations show good performance of the algorithm at reconstructing the surface strain maps for both in-plane principal strain components, and that it can be applied in real time. However, its performance can be improved by strengthening assumptions on boundary conditions. The algorithm exhibits robustness in performance with respect to load and noise in signals, except when most of the sensors' signals are close to zero due to over-fitting form the LSE.
Short-term effects of thoracic spinal manipulations and message conveyed by clinicians to patients with musculoskeletal shoulder symptoms: a randomized clinical trial

AbstractStudy design:Randomized clinical trial.Objectives:To evaluate the effects of high-velocity, low-amplitude thrust manipulations (HVLATMs) and various messages on patients with musculoskeletal shoulder symptoms.Background:Previous studies indicated that HVLATM directed at the thoracic spine and ribs resulted in improvements of shoulder range of motion, pain, and disability in patients with musculoskeletal shoulder symptoms. These studies did not explore if the outcome was dependent on thrust location, clinician communication with the patient, or if there were any lasting effects.Methods:A consecutive sample of 100 patients with shoulder pain was randomized into four groups. Patients received one intervention session including: six thoracic HVLATM (spine versus scapula), a message about HVLATM (neutral versus positive), and standardized home exercises. Outcome measures included shoulder Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), NPRS with impingement testing, and Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI). Me...
Metal cluster catalysis. 2. Selective reduction of nitrobenzene catalyzed by rhodium carbonyl cluster anions. Evidence for water gas shift reaction

Abstract The rhodium cluster complex, Rh6(CO)16, has been found to catalyze the homogeneous reduction of nitrobenzene to aniline at temperatures above 80 °C in the presence of N,N-dimenthylbenzylamine, using any one of the following reducing gases: (1) H2/CO, (2) H2, (3)CO/H2O. The reductions are highly selective and aniline was the only product detected. The same result was obtained using Amberlyst A-21 resin beads which contained polymerbound N,N-dimethylbenzylamine moieties which, in turn, immobilize the rhodium clusters. It was shown, by using D2O, and following deuterium incorporation into the resulting aniline, that the water is the source of hydrogen when CO/H2O was used. When nitrobenzene is absent, this catalyst system promotes the water—gas shift reaction. Unlike aromatic nitro groups, aliphatic nitro groups were not reduced. However, the water—gas shift reaction was catalyzed. The kinetics of aniline formation were first order in nitrobenzene and the effect of pressure on the reaction is described. Use of the resin catalyst led to lower rates and a remarkably air sensitive catalyst system relative to the homogeneous reactions.
Information systems for collaborating versus transacting: Impact on manufacturing plant performance in the presence of demand volatility

Research at the nexus of operations management and information systems suggests that manufacturing plants may benefit from the utilization of information systems for collaborating and transacting with suppliers and customers. The objective of this study is to examine the extent to which value generated by information systems for collaborating versus transacting is contingent upon demand volatility. We analyze a unique dataset assembled from non-public U.S. Census Bureau data of manufacturing plants. Our findings suggest that when faced with volatile demand, plants employing information systems for collaborating with suppliers and customers experience positive and significant benefits to performance, in terms of both labor productivity and inventory turnover. In contrast, results suggest that plants employing information systems for transacting in volatile environments do not experience such benefits. Further exploratory analysis suggests that in the context of demand volatility, these two distinct dimensions of IT-based integration have differing performance implications at different stages of the production process in terms of raw-materials inventory and finished-goods inventory, but not in terms of work-in-process inventory. Taken together, our study contributes to theoretical and managerial understanding of the contingent value of information systems in volatile demand conditions in the supply chain context.
BLADDER NECK COMPETENCY AT REST IN WOMEN WITH INCONTINENCE

Abstract Purpose We determine the presence of an open bladder neck during video urodynamic studies and relate that finding to the presence of stress urinary incontinence. Materials and Methods Patients presenting with urinary incontinence, voiding dysfunction or pelvic floor prolapse underwent video urodynamics. With the patient upright and after 200 ml. contrast material had been instilled into the bladder the bladder neck was viewed to determine if it was open or closed. At that point the abdominal leak point pressure was measured. Results Of 102 women, average age 56.5 years (range 31 to 82), 13% had an open bladder neck and demonstrable stress incontinence on video urodynamics with an average abdominal leak point pressure of 45 cm. water (range 26 to 90). Of those with stress incontinence on urodynamics 23% had an open bladder neck. No continent patient had an open bladder neck. Conclusions The presence of an open bladder neck with the bladder filled to 200 ml. correlates strongly with the presence of stress incontinence.
Uniform distribution of eigenfunctions on compact hyperbolic surfaces

On demontre que les fonctions propres {φ k } du laplacien sur une surface hyperbolique compacte X devient uniformement distribuee sur X quand k→∞
Theoretical and phenomenological constraints on preon models and roles of supergroups

Abstract Models of massless composite quarks and leptons are proposed on the basis of the following requirements: 1. (1) Confining hypercolor gauge forces which are asymptotically free with a scale Λ H in the TeV range. 2. (2) Anomaly free gauge sector. 3. (3) Anomaly matching between preons and composite fermions for consistency of an unbroken chiral symmetry. 4. (4) Decoupling of heavy preons via a parity doubling of the composite fermions that contain them. 5. (5) Massless composite fermions contain the minimal number of valence preons that make a hypercolor singlet. Exotics are excluded or assumed to be massive. 6. (6) Indices of composites do not exceed 1. 7. (7) Pauli principle is satisfied with a completely symmetric spatial wave function. 8. (8) The preonic chiral symmetries contain SU(3) × SU(2) × U(1). When the symmetry is broken down to this group, the only remaining massless fermions fall just into the patterns of observed families. 9. (9) Unobserved processes such as proton decay, e + e − → μ ± e ∓ , eN→ μ N, υ →e γ , K L → μ ± e −+ , K + → π + ± μ ∓ , Δm (K L −K S ), and anomalous magnetic moments of e and μ are suppressed or do not occur. 10. (10) A mechanism for SU(2) w breaking that generates masses for quarks and leptons exists. We find that requirement (4) always imposes the structure of representations of supergroups SU( N / M ). Unlike supersymmetric models, the grading here is between left-handed and right-handed fermions rather than between bosons and fermions. Only the even subgroup of the supergroup is a symmetry, but preons and composite fermions must be classified in irreducible representations of SU( N / M ) as if the full supergroup were a symmetry. Using supertableaux techniques, we find and classify all models containing 3 preons in a composite fermion. We study models in which the preons fall into one of these structures with respect to hypercolor: (i) A single irreducible representation R of any hypercolor, group (including direct products) with R × R × R ∼ 1, (ii) Two irreducible representations R 1 , R 2 of hypercolor with R 1 R 2 ∗ R 2 ∗ ∼ 1, and (iii) Three irreducible representations satisfying R 1 R 2 R 3 ∼ 1. We treat the hypercolor group G H and the representations R i as unknowns and follow a strategy for finding constraints on G H and R i which lead to all possible models consistent with conditions (1)–(5), then (6)–(7) and finally (8)–(10). Explicitly we construct many models that satisfy conditions (1)–(6). One model of type (i) satisfies requirement (7) but no model of type (i) satisfies the additional requirements (8)–(10). Only two classes of models of type (ii) and one class of type (iii) are found to pass tests (1)–(7). Among then we find an SU(3) × SU(2) × U(1) embedding which satisfies the remaining physical requirements (8)–(10). Δm (K L − K S ) provides the most severe bounds on the hypercolor scale Λ H .
Proximal regulatory domains of rat atrial natriuretic factor gene.

BACKGROUND At least three cis-acting regulatory elements are required for expression of the rat atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) gene. One distal cis-acting regulatory element lies more than 640 base pairs from the transcription initiation site. METHODS AND RESULTS In this report, we identify two other proximal regulatory elements that lie within 609 base pairs of the transcription initiation site. One proximal regulatory element contains an activator protein-1 (AP-1)-like binding site and is recognized by the AP-1 protein, the c-fos/c-jun proto-oncogene heterodimer in vitro. The second regulatory element contains a cyclic AMP-responsive element (CRE)-like recognition site. CONCLUSIONS In vitro binding of the c-fos/c-jun heterodimer to ANF gene sequences suggests that the heterodimer may play a role in the regulation of gene transcription in vivo. This observation may also explain the correlation between c-fos/c-jun expression and ventricular ANF gene expression found in hypertrophic states. Nuclear extracts from normal cardiocytes contain proteins that bind these regulatory elements but do not appear to bind at the AP-1 site, suggesting that the levels of fos/jun heterodimer in nonhypertrophied cardiocytes are quite low.
Dollars and Decisions: Fiscal Policy and Administration in the American States

Books reviewed in this article: Glenn Beamer, Creative Politics: Taxes and Public Goods in a Federal System David Brunori, State Tax Policy: A Political Perspective Kurt M. Thurmaier and Katherine G. Willoughby, Policy and Politics in State Budgeting
NMR lineshape in the vortex lattice state of near-optimally doped YBa2Cu3O7−δ

Abstract NMR measurements of the linewidth of planar 17 O in near-optimally doped YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7− δ in the vortex lattice state are reported. We find that the lineshape, i.e. magnetic field probability distribution, is much broader than what is expected based on the calculated distribution arising from the vortex supercurrents. We can qualitatively account for this anomalously large NMR linewidth measured at low temperatures by postulating that the broadening is caused by antiferromagnetism in the vortex core.
Individual Tissue Weight to Total Body Weight Relationships and Total, Polar, and Nonpolar Lipids in Tissues of Hatchery Lake Trout

Abstract Individual tissue or organ weight to total body weight relationships, total lipid, and major lipid subclasses were measured in 3- and 4-year-old hatchery-reared Lake Superior Isle Royale strain “lean” lake trout Salvelinus namaycush to obtain a more in-depth understanding of the major lipid compartments of lake trout for use in predicting the distribution and disposition of xenobiotics in these fish. No significant (P > 0.05) differences between males and females were observed in individual tissue or organ weight to total body weight relationships. The weight of internal organs and tissues made up approximately 11% of body weight, while the remaining carcass accounted for 85%. Muscle accounted for slightly more than half of the carcass weight. Dorsal and ventral muscle were approximately equal in proportions. Mean (±SD) calculated whole-body total lipid for the lake trout was 15.2% (±2.2%). No significant (P > 0.05) differences between males and females were observed in total lipid content or in ...
Single-crystal growth of mixed (La, Eu, Y, Ce, Ba, Cs) hexaborides for thermionic emission

Abstract Single crystal LaB 6 , EuB 6 , CeB 6 , BaB 6 , (La, Eu)B 6 , (La, Y)B 6 , (La, Ba)B 6 , (La, Cs)B 6 , (Eu, Y)B 6 and (Eu, Ba)B 6 , hexaborides have been grown from an aluminium flux using oxide powders. Crystals of ~1 mm or more per side have been synthesized. Longer, rod-like shapes were produced by exponential cooling. Deviations from Vegards law were observed for the (La, Eu)B 6 system. No deviations from stoichiometry could be detected in blue or purple LaB 6 or in LaB 6 in which the melt stoichiometry was varied. Thermionic emission of over 1 A/cm 2 has been obtained at 1225°C from a (100) LaB 6 crystal.
International Relations Theory, Foreign Policy Substitutability, and “Nice” Laws

Two logical problems appear to have impeded the development of an integrative understanding of international and foreign policy phenomena. The first has to do with the potential for foreign policy substitutability: through time and across space, similar factors could plausibly be expected to trigger different foreign policy acts. The second concerns the potential existence of “sometimes true,” domain-specific laws. It is the logical opposite of the substitution problem, suggesting that different processes could plausibly be expected to lead to similar results. Neither problem appears to be well understood in the current literature; if anything, both are ignored. Nevertheless, they are potentially important. Together, they suggest that scholars who are interested in developing a cumulative base of integrative knowledge about foreign policy and international relations phenomena need to rethink both their focus on middle-range theory and their application of the standard approaches. We recommend reconsideration of some of the “grand” theoretical approaches found in the “traditional” literature. A new synthesis of tradition and science and of grand, middle, and narrow approaches appears to be needed. Finally, in contrast to the arguments of proponents of a systems-level approach, we argue that the most fruitful avenues for theorizing and research are at the microlevel in which the focus is on decision making, expected utility calculations, and foreign policy interaction processes.
Metaphor Comprehension and Performance on Metaphor-Related Language Tasks A Comparison of Good and Poor Readers

The performance of third- and fifth-grade good and poor readers was compared in order to determine if (a) they differed in their ability to comprehend literal and metaphoric language, (b) they differed in their ability to perform metaphor-related language tasks, and (c) their ability to comprehend metaphoric language was related to their performance on the metaphor-related language tasks. Results of separate 2 x 2 (group by grade) ANOVAs indicated that while there was no difference in performance between the two groups on the literal comprehension task, there were significant differences in their performance on both the metaphor comprehension task and on the metaphor-related language tasks. The findings also indicated differences in the pattern of correlations among the good and poor reading groups' metaphor scores and their scores on the metaphor-related language tasks. The results are discussed from a metacognitive perspective with implications for reading instruction.
Provenance of heavy minerals in beach sands, southeastern Brazil: from Rio Grande to Chui (Rio Grande do Sul State)

Abstract The sands in the fore- and backshore zones between Rio Grande and Chui (Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil) are predominantly composed of quartz, but in some places heavy-mineral concentrations appear as dark patches on the surface of the backshore. Opaques (ilmenite, magnetite, leucoxene, limonite) are the predominant minerals. The predominant transparent species are epidote, augite, hypersthene, and hornblende. Minor quantities of tourmaline, staurolite, garnet, zircon, rutile, kyanite, and andalusite are also present. There are two heavy-mineral associations in the study area: (1) a northern assemblage in which epidote, augite, hypersthene and hornblende slightly predominate; and (2) a southern assemblage in which the opaques predominate. The primary source of the heavy minerals was the igneous—metamorphic rocks of the Sul-Riograndense Shield and the basalts from Serra Geral Formation. Minerals from these sources were incorporated in the coastal sediments during the Quaternary eustatic changes in sea level and, as the coastal plain evolved, were spread over the beaches. The inner continental shelf, underlain predominantly by Pleistocene sands, is the main present-day source of the shoreline sediments. Modern rivers supply negligible heavy minerals to the shore; most fluvial sediment is trapped in the lagoons which parallel the shoreline. The northern heavy-mineral association is probably related to the small fraction of fluvial material reaching the ocean through the Rio Grande inlet and bringing mafic minerals to the beach. The La Coronilla headland and mostly the Chui cliffs contribute minerals to the south part of the area causing the development of heavy-mineral concentrations. Based on direct observations of modern beach dynamics and on sedimentary structures observed in trenches, three processes are inferred to have concentrated the heavy minerals: (1) the swash and backwash in stormy weather or during the strongest tides; (2) flow of sheets of water into or out of berm-top spillover and/or channels; and (3) eolian winnowing action. The concentrates occur principally between Albardao lighthouse and Chui village, where the black sands extend for some tens of kilometers. The concentration of heavy minerals in the deposit near Chui reaches 47% by weight. In this concentrate opaques make up to 72% of which ilmenite forms 58.4%; rutile and zircon show maximum local values between 5 and 6%.
In vivo percutaneous absorption of hydrocortisone in psoriatic patients and normal volunteers

Our objective was to determine the percutaneous absorption of hydrocortisone in psoriatic skin. [ 14 C]-Hydrocortisone formulated as a 0.5% cream was applied to sharply defined erythematous plaques with silvery scales on the dorsal forearm of four hospitalized psoriatic patients. An average 2.32 ±' 1.4 (SD) percent of the applied dose was absorbed. The absorption of the same dose from the dorsal forearm of six normal subjects was 2.45 ±'1.2%. We conclude that for presumably stable psoriatic plaques, the percutaneous absorption of hydrocortisone is the same as for normal skin.
With similar visual angles, larger displays improve spatial performance

Large wall-sized displays are becoming prevalent. Although researchers have articulated qualitative benefits of group work on large displays, little work has been done to quantify the benefits for individual users. We ran two studies comparing the performance of users working on a large projected wall display to that of users working on a standard desktop monitor. In these studies, we held the visual angle constant by adjusting the viewing distance to each of the displays. Results from the first study indicate that although there was no significant difference in performance on a reading comprehension task, users performed about 26% better on a spatial orientation task done on the large display. Results from the second study suggest that the large display affords a greater sense of presence, allowing users to treat the spatial task as an egocentric rather than an exocentric rotation. We discuss future work to extend our findings and formulate design principles for computer interfaces and physical workspaces.
An empirical comparison of forgetting models

This paper presents a comparative study of several forgetting models. We compare the performance of these forgetting models in measuring the amount of forgetting following a break in an environment where learning and forgetting occur intermittently. Comparisons are made of the performance of each model with respect to empirical data from a procedural inspection task. We identify models that perform better for predicting forgetting and, hence, performance following breaks in intermittent tasks. Results are presented indicating the efficiency, stability, and balance of each model with respect to predictive performance. Accurate predictions of performance are important for management in determining labor costing, scheduling, and setting time standards.
Insulin-Like Growth Factor (IGF) Binding Protein 2 Functions Coordinately with Receptor Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase β and the IGF-I Receptor To Regulate IGF-I-Stimulated Signaling

Insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) is a mitogen for vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) and has been implicated in the development and progression of atherosclerosis. IGF binding proteins (IGFBPs) modify IGF-I actions independently of IGF binding, but a receptor-based mechanism by which they function has not been elucidated. We investigated the role of IGFBP-2 and receptor protein tyrosine phosphatase β (RPTPβ) in regulating IGF-I signaling and cellular proliferation. IGFBP-2 bound RPTPβ, which led to its dimerization and inactivation. This enhanced PTEN tyrosine phosphorylation and inhibited PTEN activity. Utilization of substrate trapping and phosphatase-dead mutants showed that RPTPβ bound specifically to PTEN and dephosphorylated it. IGFBP-2 knockdown led to decreased PTEN tyrosine phosphorylation and decreased AKT Ser473 activation. IGFBP-2 enhanced IGF-I-stimulated VSMC migration and proliferation. Analysis of aortas obtained from IGFBP-2(-/-) mice showed that RPTPβ was activated, and this was associated with inhibition of IGF-I stimulated AKT Ser473 phosphorylation and VSMC proliferation. These changes were rescued following administration of IGFBP-2. These findings present a novel mechanism for coordinate regulation of IGFBP-2 and IGF-I signaling functions that lead to stimulation of VSMC proliferation. The results have important implications for understanding how IGFBPs modulate the cellular response to IGF-I.
Overview of Energy Recovery Linacs

Existing Energy Recovery Linacs (ERLs) are successfully operated as kW-class average power infrared Free Electron Lasers (FELs). Various groups worldwide actively pursue ERLs as a technology of choice for a number of new applications. These include high brilliance light sources in a wide range of photon energies utilizing both spontaneous and FEL radiation production techniques, electron cooling of ion beams, and ERL-based electron-ion collider. All of these projects seek in various ways to extend performance parameters possible in ERLs beyond what has been achieved in existing relatively small scale demonstration facilities. The demand is for much higher average currents, significantly larger recirculated beam energies and powers and substantially improved electron sources. An overview of the ongoing ERL projects will be presented along with the summary of the progress that is being made in addressing the outstanding issues in this type of accelerators.
On the geometry of tensor network states

We answer a question of L. Grasedyck that arose in quantum information theory, showing that the limit of tensors in a space of tensor network states need not be a tensor network state. We also give geometric descriptions of spaces of tensor networks states corresponding to trees and loops. Grasedyck's question has a surprising connection to the area of Geometric Complexity Theory, in that the result is equivalent to the statement that the boundary of the Mulmuley-Sohoni type variety associated to matrix multiplication is strictly larger than the projections of matrix multiplication (and re-expressions of matrix multiplication and its projections after changes of bases). Tensor Network States are also related to graphical models in algebraic statistics.
Reaction of hexafluorobenzene with trimethylsilyl ethers

Abstract Hexafluorobenzene reacts readily with a variety of trimethylsilyl ethers ROSiMe 3 (R=CF 3 CH 2 , FCH 2 CH 2 , H(CF 2 ) n ,CH 2 ( n =2, 4), CF 3 (CF 2 ) 6 CH 2 , CF 3 (CF 2 ) 5 CH 2 CH 2 , Me 3 SiOCH 2 CH 2 , C 6 F 5 OCH 2 CH 2 , C 6 H 5 , 4-FC 6 H 4 ) to give from mono- to hexapolyfluoroalkoxy- and polyfluoroaryloxy-benzenes. The structure of C 6 (OCH 2 CF 3 ) 6 has been confirmed by single-crystal X-ray analysis. The perfluorinated ether C 6 F 5 OCF 2 CF 3 may be synthesized from C 6 F 5 OCH 2 CF 3 by chlorination and subsequent fluorination with SbF 3 /SbCI 5 . The chlorination of 5,6,7,8-tetrafluoro-1,4-benzodioxane is also discussed.
Management Trade‐Offs of Internal Control and External Auditor Expertise

Managers of organizations establish control systems to reduce the agency costs inherent in those organizations. Control systems include both internal and external control mechanisms, some of which may be viewed as substitutes for each other. We develop a model of the demand for external auditor industry expertise and then examine whether managers substitute such expertise for certain closely related internal control mechanisms in their overall control systems. Using a sample of municipalities, we find evidence that managers who do not hire internal auditors or who hire accounting personnel with low levels of accounting expertise tend to hire external auditors with higher levels of industry expertise. We interpret this to be a conscious trade‐off on the part of the managers, which appears to be linked to the costs of hiring the internal mechanisms in question.
Utilization of Post-Occupancy Evaluations in LEED Certified K-12 Schools

Post-occupancy evaluation (POE) focuses on the requirements that occupants have in terms of “health, safety, security, functionality and efficiency, psychological comfort, aesthetic quality and satisfaction” (Federal Facilities Council, 2001). Postoccupancy evaluations provide an opportunity to integrate multiple priorities including building performance and occupant requirements, which contributes to buildings becoming more sustainable. This research looks at the application of POE among LEED® Certified K-12 schools, and whether or not they address the imperative to include children’s perspectives about their everyday environments. Data for this study comes from a survey of LEED® Certified K-12 schools. Results show that two-thirds of the schools surveyed did not conduct a POE. Reasons identified include lack of awareness of the purpose and benefits of a POE, as well as a lack of funding. Of the 10 schools that did conduct a POE, only 2 (7% overall) included students in the process.
Insulin resistance syndrome and Alzheimer's disease: age- and obesity-related effects on memory, amyloid, and inflammation.

Insulin plays an important role in memory and other aspects of brain function. The insulin resistance syndrome, characterized by chronic peripheral insulin elevations, reduced insulin activity, and reduced brain insulin levels, is associated with age-related memory impairment and Alzheimer's disease (AD). Our work has focused on specific mechanisms through which this association is forged, including the effects of peripheral hyperinsulinemia on memory, inflammation, and regulation of the β-amyloid peptide that plays a key role in AD pathophysiology. Our data suggest that excessive insulin invokes synchronous increases in levels of Aβ and inflammatory agents, effects that are exacerbated by age and obesity. This constellation of events may have deleterious effects on memory. Treatments focused on preventing or correcting insulin abnormalities may be of therapeutic benefit for adults with age-related memory impairment and AD.