cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The end of asymmetric information.

JHPPL 26.5 13 Robinson 4:34 PM Page 1045 The End of Asymmetric Information James C. Robinson University of California, Berkeley The most pernicious doctrine in health services research, the greatest impediment to clear thought and successful action, is that health care is different. Of course the medical sector has features not found elsewhere in the economy and polity, but then there is a uniqueness to every other industry. Each of the salient characteristics of health care, including pro- fessionalism, licensure, nonprofit organization, third-party payment, and heavy government regulation, can be found in other sectors, albeit not bundled in quite the same distinct and dysfunctional manner. The unique- ness doctrine hence proves too much. More importantly, the principle serves as a two-way barrier to entry between the health and nonhealth sectors. In one direction it discourages mainstream economists from importing the principles of industrial organization, game theory, and transactions costs to health care issues by raising a wall of acronyms and institutional trivia that impedes dialogue. In the other direction it fosters a complacency among the virtuosi of health policy analysis, allowing us to achieve fame and fortune in our small pond without fear of competi- tion from denizens of the scholarly shark tank. To some within the health care community, the uniqueness doctrine is self-evident and needs no justification. After all, health care is essential to health. That food and shelter are even more vital and seem to be pro- duced without professional licensure, nonprofit organization, compulsory insurance, class action lawsuits, and 133,000 pages of regulatory pre- scription in the Federal Register does not shake the faith of the orthodox. Journal of Health Politics, Policy and Law, Vol. 26, No. 5, October 2001. Copyright © 2001 by Duke University Press.
Mucinous eccrine naevus: case report and review of the literature

Mucinous eccrine naevus (MEN) is an extremely rare variant of eccrine naevus. There are only nine reported cases in the English literature. We report a 3-month-old boy with a congenital lesion on the lower back, and review the other cases in the literature. In most cases, MEN presents before puberty. The commonest presentation is a unilateral, solitary, brownish nodule without hyperhidrosis occurring on the legs. The diagnosis of this condition is confirmed by the characteristic histopathological features. Treatment options may be considered if symptomatic.
Unified Theories of Cognition: modeling cognitive competence

Abstract In his recent text, Unified Theories of Cognition, Allen Newell offers an exciting mixture of theoretical and methodological advice to cognitive scientists on how to begin developing more comprehensive accounts of human problem solving. Newell's perspective is at once both exciting and frustrating. His concept of a unified theory of cognition (UTC), and his attempt to illustrate a UTC with his Soar problem solving architecture, is exciting because it suggests how scientists might use the computational methods of cognitive science and artificial intelligence to formulate and explore both broader and deeper aspects of intelligence in people and in machines. Newell's perspective is equally frustrating because it dictates a behaviorist methodology for evaluating cognitive models. Newell views a UTC as a simulation of behavior. I explore the surprising similarity of Newell's approach to theory to the approaches of classical behaviorists such as John Watson and Edward Chace Tolman. I suggest that Newell's behaviorist methodology is incompatible with his commitment to building theories in terms of complex computational systems. I offer a modification to Newell's approach in which a UTC provides an architecture in which to explore the nature of competence—the requisite body of knowledge—that underlies an intelligent agent's ability to perform tasks in a particular domain. I compare this normative perspective to Newell's commitment to performance modeling. I conclude that his key theoretical concepts, such as the problem space hypothesis, knowledge level systems, and intelligence as approximation to the knowledge level are fundamentally competence constructs. I raise specific concerns about the indeterminacy of evaluating a UTC like Soar against performance data. Finally, I suggest that competence modeling more thoroughly exploits the insights of cognitive scientists like Newell and reduces the gap between the aims of cognitive science and artificial intelligence.
PROFICIENCY ASSESSMENT STANDARDS IN SECOND LANGUAGE ACQUISITION RESEARCH

The present study aims to sensitize SLA researchers to the importance of documenting and controlling for their participants’ proficiency in the target language, with the goal of establishing more robust proficiency assessment standards in experimental research. First, this article presents a survey of recent (2000–2008) foreign and second-language (L2) acquisition studies that show that such standards have yet to be met. Second, it demonstrates the validity, reliability, and practicality of a cloze (i.e., fill-in-the-blank) test designed to discriminate among L2 learners of French at different proficiency levels. Subject and item analyses are performed on the cloze test scores of 169 L2 learners of French from various language backgrounds. The relationship between these scores and the learners’ language background is examined. Cutoff points between proficiency levels are identified in the data. The test then is shared with scholars so that those working with a similar population of L2 learners of French can also use it.
Proprioception Evaluation of Patients Undergoing Anterior Shoulder Stabilization

This paper presents the initial data from the first clinical usage of a 2nd generation device to measure proprioception of the shoulder or knee. The device was used to evaluate the surgical stabilization of subjects with anterior shoulder instability. Two types of shoulder proprioception were evaluated: Threshold to Detection of Passive Motion (TTDPM) and Reproduction of Passive Position (RPP). Data is presented for 12 subjects 1 year post-surgery. The data demonstrated that the involved limb TTDPM and RPP approached that of the uninvolved limb, and that the values improved as the shoulder was rotated upwards. Both results point to the efficacy of the repair method and the ability of the device to evaluate proprioception.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Boundary Frustration in Multi-Organizational Collaboration

This paper examines collaboration between members of multiple organizations on innovative projects in novel, complex settings. Prior research has identified knowledge differences stemming from collaborators’ organizational membership and expertise as both sources of and barriers to innovation. Through a qualitative study of three innovation projects, comprising interviews with and observations of 85 individuals from 26 organizations, I describes the process of boundary frustration – a social, emotional and cognitive process whereby differences between collaborators are transformed into boundaries that hamper innovation – and consider its antecedents and consequences. Boundary frustration begins when differences between collaborators result in divergent interpretations of each project. Divergent interpretations result in five kinds of social exchanges –excessive discussion, indecision, begrudging acceptance, revisiting, and rejection – that leave collaborators unable to integrate their ideas and thus evoke...
Song overproduction and selective attrition lead to song sharing in the field sparrow (Spizella pusilla)

Male field sparrows settling on particular territories for the first time often sing two or more song types. Vocal experience with neighboring males then leads in most cases to the deletion from the male's repertoires of all but one song type. In 2 years, settling males retained the song type that most closely resembled that of a neighbor. Focal observations in 1 year revealed that the most actively singing neighbor was the one the new birds resembled. Songs were not selected on the basis of their absolute acoustic characteristics, but rather by their resemblance to neighbors' songs. After the attrition process is complete, males retain their song for the rest of their lives. Evidence supports the hypothesis that the actual acquisition of a song need not take place at the time and place as males occupy territories. Rather, males may acquire an abundance of song models earlier in life and then select songs from this repertoire that most closely resemble those of their neighbors. The development of mature repertoires and of local dialects is the outcome of one process in this species.
A Forward Angle Recoding CORDIC Algorithm and Pipelined Processor Array Structure for Digital Signal Processing

Abstract We propose a forward angle recoding (FAR) algorithm to implement a high performance CORDIC (COordinate Rotation DIgital Computer) based VLSI processor array. With a redundant encoding of the underlying rotation angles, we prove that the number of CORDIC iterations can be reduced by more than 50% using the FAR algorithm. For pipelined computation, this reduction of CORDIC iterations leads to the reduction of the pipelining latency and overall computing time. In order to implement the FAR algorithm, we propose a novel CORDIC control unit architecture. The regularity and simplicity of this architecture makes it suitable for VLSI implementation. Next, the potential digital signal processing applications of a FAR-based CORDIC processor array are discussed. We survey the various CORDIC array processor architectures suitable for the implementation of discrete Fourier transform (DFT), fast Fourier transforms (FFT), chirped Z -transform, orthogonal digital filters, and lattice filters.
Fluctuations in astronomical masers

The radiation of astronomical masers fluctuates on the time scale 1/Gamma, where Gamma is the levels' loss rate. These intensity fluctuations reflect fluctuations of the level poulations around their mean, steady state values over the length scale lambda(c) = c/Gamma. In saturated masers, the intensity fluctuations are dominated by passage through the unsaturated core. The effects of the saturated zones and of the seed radiation that the masers amplify can be neglected. These fluctuations may have been detected in recent observations by Clegg and Cordes (1991) of Galactic H II/OH masers, providing a possible direct determination of the saturation intensity Js (= Gamma/2B), an important input parameter for theoretical modeling. Long time-scale variations in the fluctuation amplitudes can provide information on phenomena such as passage of hydrodynamic waves in the maser region. 9 refs.
Enhanced superconductivity in quasi-two-dimensional systems.

We show that the tendency for superconductivity of a weakly coupled 2D electron system can be significantly enhanced if the Fermi energy is close to a logarithmic Van Hove singularity in the density of states. Using results from perturbation theory, supported by quantum Monte Carlo simulations, we calculate ${T}_{c}$ and explore the effects of the quasiparticle lifetime and higher-order interactions on this enhancement. This mechanism suggests possible new directions in the search for 2D excitonic superconductivity.
Three-dimensional separated flow structure over a cylinder with a hemispherical cap

Thin-layer Navier–Stokes solutions are obtained for an incompressible laminar flow over a hemisphere–cylinder at 10°, 30° and 50° incidence to exhibit some three-dimensional separated flow characteristics. Some of the results are compared with a previous water-tunnel investigation for the same body geometry. Good agreement is found, even for some detailed features. Although the geometry is relatively simple, the separated flow surprisingly embraces a number of intricate structural characteristics unique to three-dimensional flows. Particularly noteworthy are the separation sequence at increasing incidence, tornado-like vortices, outward-spiralling vortices, limit cycles, coaxial counter-spiralling patterns and horseshoe vortex systems. Physical insights to these new features are offered.
A functional MRI study of visual oddball: evidence for frontoparietal dysfunction in subjects at risk for alcoholism.

Abstract Attending to rare stimuli interspersed among repetitive frequent stimuli produces a positive scalp potential at 300 to 600 ms after the target stimulus onset; this potential is known as the P300 wave. Although there is clear evidence of low visual P300 in subjects at high risk (HR) for developing alcoholism, the functional neuroanatomical correlates have not been studied. Functional and high-resolution anatomical magnetic resonance images were collected during the performance of a visual oddball task, from six control (low risk—LR) subjects with high P300s and eight HR subjects with low P300s. All the HR subjects were offspring of male alcoholics. The data were analyzed using a randomization-based statistical method that accounts for multiple comparisons, requires no assumptions about the noise structure of the data, and does not require spatial or temporal smoothing. Target counts showed that all subjects performed the task comparably. Analysis of the functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data revealed two areas with significantly lower activation in the HR group when compared to the LR group: the bilateral inferior parietal lobule (BA 40), and the bilateral inferior frontal gyrus (BA 44). Inferior parietal lobule showed significantly lower activation in the HR group in contrast to the LR group, and inferior frontal gyrus was not activated in the HR group but was only activated in the LR group. This finding indicates that a dysfunctional frontoparietal circuit may underlie the low P300 responses seen in HR subjects. This perhaps implies a deficiency in the rehearsal component of the working memory system.
Comparison of Approximate Methods for Calculating the Friction Coefficient and Intrinsic Viscosity of Nanoparticles and Macromolecules

A number of methods for estimating the translational friction coefficient f and the intrinsic viscosity [η] of polymers and nanoparticles have been proposed. These methods range from first-principles “boundary-element” or “bead-model” solutions of the Stokes equation employing a precise description of particle shape, to coarse-grained descriptions of polymer structures and approximate computational methods at an intermediate level of description, and finally to phenomenological estimates that relate f to the surface area of the particle. Analytic treatments normally involve slender-body and various “preaveraging” approximations, etc., that render the calculation analytically tractable, but numerically uncertain. Powerful numerical path-integral methods have become available in recent years that allow the assessment of the accuracy of the various approximate methods. We compare several methods of computing f and [η] to determine their applicability to various classes of particle shapes.
Imitation: Modeling and enhancement effects

The observation of a model performing responses may facilitate the reproduction of those responses by Ss as a function of observing those specific responses (a modeling effect) or as a function of simply observing a performing model (an enhancement effect). To investigate these two components of the modeling stimulus, one group of 5-year-olds observed a model manipulate stimulus objects and then was given an opportunity to play with those objects; a second group played with the same objects after observing the model manipulate different objects. A significant modeling effect and a significant enhancement effect were obtained. Although the magnitude of the enhancement effect was small, the results indicate that a precise assessment of the modeling effect requires an enhancement control condition.
AOTF hyperspectral microscopic imaging for foodborne pathogenic bacteria detection

Hyperspectral microscope imaging (HMI) method which provides both spatial and spectral information can be effective for foodborne pathogen detection. The AOTF-based hyperspectral microscope imaging method can be used to characterize spectral properties of biofilm formed by Salmonella enteritidis as well as Escherichia coli. The intensity of spectral imagery and the pattern of spectral distribution varied with system parameters (integration time and gain) of HMI system. The preliminary results demonstrated determination of optimum parameter values of HMI system and the integration time must be no more than 250 ms for quality image acquisition from biofilm formed by S. enteritidis. Among the contiguous spectral imagery between 450 and 800 nm, the intensity of spectral images at 498, 522, 550 and 594 nm were distinctive for biofilm; whereas, the intensity of spectral images at 546 nm was distinctive for E. coli. For more accurate comparison of intensity from spectral images, a calibration protocol, using neutral density filters and multiple exposures, need to be developed to standardize image acquisition. For the identification or classification of unknown food pathogen samples, ground truth regions-of-interest pixels need to be selected for "spectrally pure fingerprints" for the Salmonella and E. coli species.
Precision segmented reflectors for space applications

A project to develop precision segmented reflectors (PSRs) which operate at submillimeter wavelengths is described. The development of a light efficient means for the construction of large-aperture segmented reflecting space-based telescopes is the primary aim of the project. The 20-m Large Deployable Reflector (LDR) telescope is being developed for a survey mission, and it will make use of the reflector panels and materials, structures, and figure control being elaborated for the PSR. The surface accuracy of a 0.9-m PSR panel is shown to be 1.74-micron RMS, the goal of 100-micron RMS positioning accuracy has been achieved for a 4-m erectable structure. A voice-coil actuator for the figure control system architecture demonstrated 1-micron panel control accuracy in a 3-axis evaluation. The PSR technology is demonstrated to be of value for several NASA projects involving optical communications and interferometers as well as missions which make use of large-diameter segmented reflectors.
On the pricing of European and American foreign currency call options

Abstract This study uses Cox-Ross analysis and dynamic programming techniques to price foreign currency call options. We show that, under certain conditions, the American call price will exceed its European counterpart, while under other conditions the two prices will be identical. We find that the American premium is a complex function of the degree to which an option is in or out of the money, and that this premium is greatest when an option is near in or out. We present empirical evidence which shows that the American model significantly improves upon a European model; however, significant pricing errors associated with the American model remain.
Dendrimer construction and macromolecular property modification via combinatorial methods

The design and utility of a family of isocyanate functionalized branched monomers, as well as others, are described. Use of these monomers in logical combinations for the construction of branched architectures leads to the formation of unique, asymmetric dendritic species possessing multiple functionalities. Ramifications of this combinatorial-based, macromolecular construction technique are discussed with respect to functional group positioning and the potential to create dynamic heterogenous surfaces resembling a molecular “Rubik's sphere.” © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Biotechnol Bioeng (Comb Chem) 61:243–253, 1998/1999.
Locating migrant Latinas in a diverse economies framework: evidence from Chicago

In this article I use an intersectional diverse economies framework and weak theory to build knowledge about migrant Latinas' economic spaces in Chicago. Drawing on qualitative data, I demonstrate how multiple and dynamic identities are linked to economic practices. I show that Latina migrants are not limited to capitalist or noncapitalist forms of economic engagement within neoliberal structures or to single spaces within or outside ethnic economies. Their multiple and dynamic practices shifted, as did their identities and geographies. I captured a snapshot of one migrant Latina economic community and provide insights about the nature and scale of its activities as well as the opportunities, and obstacles it faces. I propose future research and policy resulting from seeing economies differently. What kinds of programs might support collective economies and migrant Latina crafts? How might we re-envision workforce development programs if we see economies differently? What kinds of creative campaigns and a...
SU-GG-T-21: Dosimetry Benefits of Online Adaptive Replanning for Whole Breast Irradiation

Purpose: Interfraction breast shape change (deformation) can be substantial (e.g., large or pendulous breasts in supine position), which, in turn, can degrade dose uniformity in breast. This change cannot be fully corrected for by patient repositioning. We have previously developed an online adaptive replanning technique to address interfraction variations. This work aims to demonstrate that this online replanning scheme can effectively account for the daily variation including setup errors and anatomic changes in whole breast irradiation (WBI). Method and Materials: Daily CT scans collected during IGRT for representative breast cancer patients treated in supine position using a CT‐on‐Rails (CTVision, Siemens) were analyzed. For each patient, a WBI IMRT plan with tangential 6MV beams was generated based on the planning CT using a planning system (Prowess Inc.). An adaptive plan was generated based on each daily CT using the system (RealART, Prowess Inc) with the online replanning algorithms implemented. For comparison, the plan (repositioning plan) with the patient repositioned based on the registration between the daily CT and the planning CT was reconstructed by copying the original plan over to the daily CT with shifts considered. A total of 20 adaptive plans and 20 repositioning plans were generated and compared. Results: DVH comparison shows that the adaptive plans, which are similar to the original plans, are generally superior than the repositioning plan in term of target coverage and/or critical structure sparing. Repositioning plans suffer from reduced target coverage. For example, values of V45Gy (breast volume covered by 45 Gy) and V50Gy are reduced by 10% and 6% respectively, for repositioning plans, while no changes in these values for adaptive plans. Conclusion: Interfractional variations in whole breast irradiation cause dosimetry degradation which cannot be accounted for by patient repositioning, but can be corrected by the online adaptive replanning.
Identification of a Gene (GPR30) with Homology to the G-Protein-Coupled Receptor Superfamily Associated with Estrogen Receptor Expression in Breast Cancer

Using the technique of differential cDNA library screening, a cDNA clone was isolated from an estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast carcinoma cell line (MCF7) cDNA library based upon the overexpression of this gene compared to an ER-negative cell line (MDA-MB-231). Sequence analysis of this clone determined that it shared significant homology to G-protein-coupled receptors. This receptor, GPCR-Br, was abundantly expressed in the ER-positive breast carcinoma cell lines MCF7, T-47D, and MDA-MB-361. Expression was absent or minimal in the ER-negative breast carcinoma cell lines BT-20, MDA-MB-231, and HBL-100. GPCR-Br was ubiquitously expressed in human tissues examined but was most abundant in placenta. GPCR-Br expression was examined in 11 primary breast carcinomas. GPCR-Br was detected in all 4 ER-positive tumors and only 1 of 7 ER-negative tumors. Based upon PCR analysis in hybrid cell lines, the gene for GPCR-Br (HGMW-approved symbol GPR30) was mapped to chromosome 7p22. The pattern of expression of GPCR-Br indicates that this receptor may be involved in physiologic responses specific to hormonally responsive tissues.
Advancing age and immune cell dysfunction: is it reversible or not?

Background: Decline in immune function with advancing age is a hallmark of aging. As a result, infectious diseases cause more morbidity and mortality to the elderly. These age-related changes significantly alter the functionality of both innate and adaptive immune components. Objectives: Although age-associated dysfunction of the immune system is well reported, not much is known about the extrinsic and intrinsic factors that progressively bring about functional changes in immune cell types. Methods: This review focuses on our current understanding of age-associated changes in innate and adaptive immune cell types and how this knowledge could be used to improve the immune competence of elderly individuals. Results/conclusion: Therapeutic approaches to rejuvenate the exhausted immune system in the elderly need more attention.
Likelihood ratio tests in linear mixed models with one variance component

Summary. We consider the problem of testing null hypotheses that include restrictions on the variance component in a linear mixed model with one variance component and we derive the finite sample and asymptotic distribution of the likelihood ratio test and the restricted likelihood ratio test. The spectral, representations of the likelihood ratio test and the restricted likelihood ratio test statistics are used as the basis of efficient simulation algorithms of their null distributions. The large sample x2 mixture approximations using the usual asymptotic theory for a null hypothesis on the boundary of the parameter space have been shown to be poor in simulation studies. Our asymptotic calculations explain these empirical results. The theory of Self and Liang applies only to linear mixed models for which the data vector can be partitioned into a large number of independent and identically distributed subvectors. One-way analysis of variance and penalized splines models illustrate the results.
Influence of the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act on Consumer Beliefs About the Safety and Effectiveness of Dietary Supplements

The authors conducted two studies to examine the influence of the U.S. Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) on consumer beliefs about the safety and effectiveness of dietary supplements. Study 1 manipulated information about Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval in the context of a dietary supplement designed to improve immune system functioning. Study 2 tested the effect of an educational intervention designed to improve knowledge about the DSHEA. Results of Study 1 highlighted deficits in consumer knowledge about FDA regulation of dietary supplements. Results also showed that information about FDA approval failed to have a statistically significant effect on beliefs about safety or effectiveness of the dietary supplement. Results of Study 2 showed that participants who were educated about the regulation of dietary supplements under the DSHEA rated dietary supplements as less safe and less effective than did participants in the control condition. The authors discuss the implications for consumers in the United States and for public policy.
Heterorhabditis bacteriophora as a vector for introducing its associated bacterium into the hemocoel of Galleria mellonella larvae

Abstract The nematode Heterorhabditis bacteriophora serves as a vector enabling its bacterial associate to reach the hemocoel of its host, the seventh-instar larva of Galleria mellonella . At 28.5°C, the LD 50 s of the orally introduced nematode-bacterial complex and the intrahemocoelically injected bacteria are three to six nematodes and one to two cells, respectively.
Influence of Aggregate Gradation on the Performance Properties of Porous Asphalt Mixtures

AbstractThis research investigated the effect of aggregate gradation on the performance of porous asphalt mixtures. Ten aggregate gradations, which represent typical gradations used by 20 different United States highway agencies for open graded friction courses, were compared by evaluating draindown, permeability, Cantabro abrasion loss, indirect tensile strength, and rutting resistance. The results indicated that gradation does influence the performance of porous asphalt mixtures. An increase in the void ratio of the aggregate structure contributes to significant increases in porosity and permeability. Consequently, the indirect tensile strength and durability (as measured by the Cantabro abrasion test) generally decreased as the mixture porosity increased. The 10 mixes showed good moisture resistance characteristics and most of the mixes had no significant difference in tensile strength after the moisture-conditioning procedure. Furthermore, the effects of rutting did not correlate with mixture or aggre...
Effect of minor alloying additions on the solidification of single-crystal Ni-base superalloys

Grain boundary elements, such as carbon and boron, were initially removed from single-crystal alloys, but more recently they have been added back into single-crystal alloys for increased castability and defect tolerance. The mechanism(s) for the increased castability is not completely understood. In this study, carbon was added to the second generation, single crystal, Ni-base superalloy and CMSX-4, to form MC-type carbides. Then either nitrogen or boron was added to the carbon-containing alloy to alter the carbide morphology and the castability of the alloy. The segregation coefficients of the alloying elements in CMSX-4 were measured with varying techniques, but no changes in partitioning were observed. The addition of carbon to CMSX-4 did reduce the number of solidification defects observed in the samples. The addition of carbon and boron to CMSX-4 did not significantly change the number of solidification defects compared to the carbon-only alloy. However, the addition of nitrogen and carbon resulted in an increase in the number of solidification defects in the CMSX-4 samples compared to the baseline CMSX-4 and carbon-containing CMSX-4 samples. The effects of these alloy additions on the carbide morphology and solidification defects are discussed.
Veterans health care: lessons for a national health care system.

Excerpt Americans are becoming increasingly concerned about the status of our health care system. Rising expenditures for health care have not been matched with improved satisfaction, and the incre...
Expression of cyclin D1 in mouse B cell lymphomas of different histologic types and differentiation stages

Abstract The G1 cyclin, cyclin D1, has been implicated in the development of human and mouse tumors. Here we describe immunohistochemical analyses of cyclin D1 for a large panel of mouse B cell tumors. In addition, we characterize cyclin D1 expression in a series of cultured cell lines that represent transformed B cells at different stages of development. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that for low-grade lymphomas, cyclin D1 was expressed by 83% of centroblastic–centrocytic (CBCC) and 14% of small lymphocytic lymphomas (SLL). For high-grade tumors, 28% of B lymphoblastic and 23% of centroblastic tumors expressed cyclin D1, while all immunoblastic lymphomas were negative. Studies of RNA and protein prepared from cultured B lineage tumors showed that cyclin D1 was expressed by all pre-B and most B cell tumors but not by cell lines representative of late B cell differentiation or by plasma cells. Expression of cyclin D1 in the lymphomas was not associated with alterations in the genomic structure of the Fis -1 ( Bcl -1) common proviral integration site or cyclin D1 itself or with cell growth activity as assessed by expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA).
An empirical analysis of the object-oriented database concurrency control mechanism O 2 O 2

Object-oriented databases are becoming increasingly popular in business. Some areas of research interest include formal object-oriented database models, query optimization, analysis and design techniques, and concurrency control. Many of these issues have been well researched as they pertain to the relational model and to centralized databases. Specifically, many studies have concentrated on relational database concurrency control but few have concentrated on object-oriented database concurrency control. Once a concurrency control mechanism is proposed and implemented, the next phase is to analyze its performance using simulation techniques. This paper includes the simulation study for the object-oriented database concurrency control mechanism named O2C2. Contributions of this study include offering a method of simulating concurrency control in an object-oriented database model. This includes extending prior studies that deal only with reading or writing a single data item without implications to the rest of the database. Specifically, the method of simulating concurrency control in an object-oriented database model is applied to the mechanism O2C2. The simulation demonstrates some intuitive, yet important properties about concurrency control in object-oriented databases. For example, as the mix of transactions progresses from operating mostly with instance objects to operating with more class and method definitions, throughput decreases.
Low-temperature growth and ion-assisted deposition.

Using standard molecular-dynamics methods, we have simulated silicon molecular-beam epitaxy on a (100) substrate, subject to a second beam of low-energy argon atoms. We find that the presence of the ion beam has an important effect on the structure of the deposits formed: good crystalline material forms at significantly lower temperatures, where otherwise a thermal beam yields an amorphous deposit. This is because the ion beam provides local excitations, which allow the deposited atoms to find their proper crystal lattice sites.
Reverse Furthest Neighbors in Spatial Databases

Given a set of points $P$ and a query point $q$, the {\em reverse furthest neighbor} (\trfn) query fetches the set of points $p \in P$ such that $q$ is their furthest neighbor among all points in $P\cup\{q\}$. This is the monochromatic \trfn (\mrfn) query. Another interesting version of \trfn query is the {\em bichromatic reverse furthest neighbor} (\brfn) query. Given a set of points $P$, a query set $Q$ and a query point $q\in Q$, a \brfn query fetches the set of points $p\in P$ such that $q$ is the furthest neighbor of $p$ among all points in $Q$. The \trfn query has many interesting applications in spatial databases and beyond. For instance, given a large residential database (as $P$) and a set of potential sites (as $Q$) for building a chemical plant complex, the construction site should be selected as the one that has the maximum number of reverse furthest neighbors. This is an instance of the \brfn query. This paper presents the challenges associated with such queries and proposes efficient, R-tree based algorithms for both monochromatic and bichromatic versions of the \trfn queries. We analyze properties of the \trfn query that differentiate it from the widely studied reverse nearest neighbor queries and enable the design of novel algorithms. Our approach takes advantage of the furthest Voronoi diagrams as well asthe convex hulls of either the data set $P$ (in the \mrfn case) or the query set $Q$ (in the \brfn case). For the \brfn queries, we also extend the analysis to the situation when $Q$ is large in size and becomes disk-resident. Experiments on both synthetic and real data sets confirm the efficiency and scalability of proposed algorithmsover the brute-force search based approach.
"We Have Been Sensitized": Ex-Combatants, Marginalization, and Youth in Postwar Sierra Leone

ABSTRACT Civilians in Makeni, Sierra Leone, describe their relationship with the ex-combatants of the rebel RUF as a state of being “sensitized” to their presence. I argue that “sensitization” connotes civilians’acceptance of ex-combatants living among them, while they refuse to incorporate ex-combatants into the social order. Civilians, although treating the war as a “state of exception,” refuse to grant ex-combatants the grace of belonging to this exceptional time. They question whether youth socialized to violence against elders ever belonged to the social world, thus the possibility of their reintegration is suspended. Ex-combatants’ assertive demands for social acceptance, adoption of reintegration discourse and development practices, and disdain for “useful” work mark them apart from “mainstream” youth, rendering them socially and economically marginal. They are threatening not because of the war but because they represent the vanguard of youth who disdain manual labor and elder control, a long-emergent social trend. [Sierra Leone, states of exception, ex-combatants, youth, transitional justice]
Novel acyl phosphate mimics that target PlsY, an essential acyltransferase in gram-positive bacteria.

PlsY is a recently discovered acyltransferase that executes an essential step in membrane phospholipid biosynthesis in Gram-positive bacteria. Using a bioisosteric replacement approach to generate substrate-based inhibitors of PlsY as potential novel antibacterial agents, a series of stabilized acylphosphate mimetics, including acylphosphonates, acyl αα,-difluoromethyl phosphonates, acyl phosphoramides, reverse amide phosphonates, acylsulfamates and acylsulfamides were designed and synthesized. Several acyl phosphonates, phosphoramides and sulfamates were identified as inhibitors of PlsY from Streptococcus pneumoniae and Bacillus anthracis. As anticipated, these inhibitors were competitive inhibitors with respect to the acylphosphate substrate. Antimicrobial testing showed the inhibitors to have generally weak anti Gram-positive activity with the exception of some acyl phosphonates, reverse amide phosphonates, and acylsulfamates that had potent activity against multiple strains of Bacillus anthracis.
Analysis of cis-acting sequences involved in plus-strand synthesis of a turnip crinkle virus-associated satellite RNA identifies a new carmovirus replication element.

Abstract Satellite RNA C (satC) is a 356-base subviral RNA associated with turnip crinkle virus (TCV). A 3′-proximal element (3′-UCCCAAAGUAU) located 11 bases from the 3′ terminus of satC minus strands can function as an independent promoter in an in vitro RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) transcription system. Furthermore, in the absence of a 5′-proximal element, the 3′-proximal element is required for complementary strand synthesis in vitro. Site-directed mutagenesis was conducted to investigate the functional significance of this element and the 3′ minus-strand terminal sequence “3′-OH-CCCUAU,” which contains the minus-strand 3′-end sequence “3′-OH-CC 1–2 (A/U)(A/U)(A/U)” found in all carmovirus RNAs. Single mutations in the 3′-terminal sequence, which we have named the carmovirus consensus sequence (CCS), suppressed satC plus-strand synthesis to undetectable levels in protoplasts while still permitting some minus-strand synthesis. However, single and multiple mutations introduced into the 3′-proximal element had little or no effect on satC accumulation in protoplasts. In vivo genetic selection (SELEX) of the minus-strand 3′-terminal 21 bases revealed that all satC species accumulating in plants contained the 3′ CCS. In addition, the 3′-proximal element preferentially contained a sequence similar to the CCS and/or polypurines, suggesting that this element may also contribute to accumulation of satC in vivo.
Microwave Processing and Sintering of PZT and PLZT Ceramics

Microwave processing techniques were established for all of the thermal treatment steps necessary to prepare high density PZT and PLZT. The microstructure and ferroelectric properties of the microwave processed materials were compared to conventionally sintered and fast fired PZT. Unique high density, small grain size, PZT and PLZT were obtained by microwave sintering either conventionally or fully microwave processed powders. It was estimated that microwave sintering would use only five percent of the energy used by conventional sintering. The suitability of microwave processing for the production of two modifications (Sr and La) of lead zirconate - lead titanate (PZT) ceramics was investigated in this program. A commercial microwave oven was used to evaluate drying, calcining, binder burnoff, and sintering. These materials were then compared to those produced by fast-firing and conventional sintering methods.
Reciprocity method for obtaining the far fields generated by a source inside or near a microparticle

We show that the far fields generated by a source inside or near a microparticle can be obtained readily by using the reciprocity theorem along with the internal or near fields generated by plane-wave illumination. This method is useful for solving problems for which the scattered fields generated with plane-wave illumination have already been obtained. We illustrate the method for the case of a homogeneous sphere and then apply it to the problem of emission from a dipole inside a sphere that is near a plane interface.
An experimental study with alternate measurement systems for estimation of tire-road friction coefficient

This paper reports research on three different paradigms for the real-time measurement of tire-road friction coefficient on moving vehicles. The three friction estimation systems studied are: (1) vehicle based system: that utilized measurement of vehicle lateral and longitudinal motion, (2) wheel-based system: that utilizes sensors on a special redundant wheel mounted on the vehicle, and (3) tire-based systems: that utilizes measurement of tire deflections from piezoelectric strips embedded in the regular tires of the vehicle. The advantages and limitations of each of the above three measurement systems are analyzed. The vehicle-based system utilizes differential GPS to accurately measure the lateral slip angle and longitudinal slip. The novelty of the vehicle-based system in this paper is that it is designed to work under both acceleration and braking maneuvers for a wide range of slip values. Experimental results are presented for all three types of measurement systems. Compared to the vehicle-based system, the wheel and the tire based systems have significantly better ability to estimate friction reliably in the absence of significant cornering or acceleration/deceleration in the vehicle.
Endophthalmitis: state of the art

Endophthalmitis is an uncommon diagnosis but can have devastating visual outcomes. Endophthalmitis may be endogenous or exogenous. Exogenous endophthalmitis is caused by introduction of pathogens through mechanisms such as ocular surgery, open-globe trauma, and intravitreal injections. Endogenous endophthalmitis occurs as a result of hematogenous spread of bacteria or fungi into the eye. These categories of endophthalmitis have different risk factors and causative pathogens, and thus require different diagnostic, prevention, and treatment strategies. Novel diagnostic techniques such as real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) have been reported to provide improved diagnostic results over traditional culture techniques and may have a more expanded role in the future. While the role of povidone-iodine in prophylaxis of postoperative endophthalmitis is established, there remains controversy with regard to the effectiveness of other measures, including prophylactic antibiotics. The Endophthalmitis Vitrectomy Study (EVS) has provided us with valuable treatment guidelines. However, these guidelines cannot be directly applied to all categories of endophthalmitis, highlighting the need for continued research into attaining improved treatment outcomes.
Functional characterization of the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 Nef acidic domain.

The human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) accessory protein Nef downregulates major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC-I) from the cell surface. It has been proposed that the direct interaction of the acidic cluster (AC) of Nef, 62EEEE65, with the furin binding region (fbr) of PACS-1 is crucial for this Nef function. Contrary to this proposal, evidence is presented here that the four glutamates in Nef do not functionally engage the PACS-1 fbr. (i) The binding of Nef to the PACS-1 fbr in vitro is much weaker than the binding of the canonical furin AC to the PACS-1 fbr. (ii) The mutation of two of the four glutamates in Nef's AC to alanines does not alter Nef's ability to downregulate MHC-I, and triply mutated Nefs exhibit 50% activity. (iii) The introduction of lysine into the AC has little effect on Nef function. (iv) The mutation of all four glutamates to alanine does debilitate Nef MHC-I downregulation, but this quadruple mutation also impairs the ability of Nef to regulate p21-activated protein kinase and enhance viral particle infectivity. (v) The replacement of the Nef AC with the bona fide AC from furin results in the loss of the expected regulatory properties of the furin AC. (vi) The insertion of the conformation-disrupting amino acid proline into the Nef AC does not disrupt MHC-I downregulation. Our results are consistent with an alternative model in which 62EEEE65 plays a stabilizing role in the formation of a ternary complex between Nef, the MHC-I cytoplasmic domain, and AP-1.
Examining relationships between input and language development: some statistical issues

With various descriptions of adults' speech to children in hand, investigators have turned their attention to questions concerning the specific nature and extent of relationships between aspects of input and language development. Answering such questions requires some conceptualization of the potential relationships that may exist. Equally important, though, are the statistical and design issues surrounding the inference of these relationships. An exhaustive discussion of these issues is beyond the scope of this Note. Consequently, we will focus on three specific topics: (1) the use of gain scores; (2) aspects of correlation and alternative procedures that have an impact on the validity and interpretability of statistical findings; and (3) passive observation versus experimental manipulation.
Breeder and batch-dependent variability in the acquisition and performance of a motor skill in adult Long–Evans rats

Reaching tasks are popular tools for investigating the neural mechanisms of motor skill learning and recovery from brain damage in rodents, but there is considerable unexplained variability across studies using these tasks. We investigated whether breeder, batch effects, experimenter, time of year, weight and other factors contribute to differences in the acquisition and performance of a skilled reaching task, the single pellet retrieval task, in adult male Long-Evans hooded rats. First, we retrospectively analyzed task acquisition and performance in rats from different breeding colonies that were used in several studies spanning a 3 year period in our laboratory. Second, we compared reaching variables in age-matched rats from different breeders that were trained together as a batch by the same experimenters. All rats had received daily training on the reaching task until they reached a criterion of successful reaches per attempt. We found significant breeder-dependent differences in learning rate and final performance level. This was found even when age-matched rats from different breeders were trained together by the same experimenters. There was also significant batch-to-batch variability within rats from the same breeder trained by the same experimenter. Other factors, including weight, paw preference and the experimenter, were not as strong or consistent in their contributions to differences across studies. The breeder and batch effects found within the same rat strain may reflect genetic and environmental influences on the neural substrates of motor skill learning. This is an important consideration when comparing baseline performance across studies and for controlling variability within studies.