cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
On stiffly stable implicit linear multistep methods.

Sufficient conditions for a consistent linear multistep method to be stiffly stable are given. These conditions involve properties of the stability mapping from the extended complex plane onto itself.
The cyclic AMP control system in the development of Dictyostelium discoideum. II. An allosteric model.

Abstract An allosteric model for the synthesis and release of cAMP by cells of Dictyostelium discoideum is developed, and matched to experimental data on autonomous and refractory periods, delay and release times, and relaying thresholds. In addition, the model predicts recruitment and center inhibition effects, and chemotactic sorting out of cells to form a descending gradient of cAMP content down the slug. This gradient is tied to an opposing gradient in stored reserves which assigns cells with the highest compliment of stored reserves to the prespore region.
Community approaches to preventing mother-to-child HIV transmission: perspectives from rural Lesotho

This paper examines the cultural and structural difficulties surrounding effective prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission (PMTCT) in rural Lesotho. We argue for three strategies to improve PMTCT interventions: community-based research and outreach, addressing cultural and structural dynamics, and working with the relevant social groups that impact HIV prevention. These conclusions are based on interviews and participant observation conducted within the rural Mokhotlong district and capital city of Maseru, involving women and men of reproductive age, grandmothers serving as primary caretakers, HIV/AIDS programme staff, and medical professionals. Qualitative analysis focused on rural women's socio-medical experience with the four measures of PMTCT (educational outreach, voluntary counselling and testing, antiretroviral interventions, and safe infant feeding). Based on these results, we conclude that intervention models must move beyond a myopic biomedical 'best-practices' approach to address the social groups and contextual determinants impacting vertical HIV transmission. Given the complexities of effective PMTCT, our results show that it is necessary to consider the biomedical system, women and children, and the community as valuable partners in achieving positive health outcomes.
Effect of Cortisone and X-radiation on RNA and Glycogen Content of Rat Hepatocytes.

Rats were treated with cortisone, x radiation and both agents in combination, and the effects noted on RNA and glycogen content of liver. Under various conditions of treatment, RNA content incrsased promptly to different degrees and returned to normal values at different times. Comparison of RNA content/liver in the present study, with those of DNA/nucleus in previous study, indicates that, in animals which received cortisone alone, the maximum increase in RNA was obtained 24 hours prior to a fali in concentration of DNA. However, accumulation of RNA in rats which received x-radiation or both cortisone and x- radiation was 48 hours earlier than when the fall of DNA became significant. X radiation or cortisone administration caused glycogen accumulation in liver, the former transiently, the latter in more dramatic and prolonged manner. X radiation, prior to administration of cortisone, modified the response and decreased glycogen accumulation. Changes in glycogen content in contradistinction to RNA could not be correlated with those of DNA. (auth)
Institutional effectiveness as process and practice in the American community college

Institutional effectiveness is defined in light of the requirements of the six regional accrediting agencies, common terms are delineated, and the processes and practice of institutional effectiveness in community colleges is explored.
Cellular Mechanisms of Estradiol-Mediated Masculinization of the Brain

The sexual differentiation of reproductive physiology and behavior in the rodent brain is largely determined by estradiol aromatized from testicular androgens. The cellular mechanisms by which estradiol masculinizes the brain are beginning to emerge and revealing novel features of brain development that are highly region-specific. In the preoptic area, the major site controlling male sexual behavior, estradiol increases the level of the COX-2 enzyme and its product, prostaglandin E2 which promotes dendritic spine synaptogenesis. In the ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus, the major site controlling female reproductive behavior, estradiol promotes glutamate release from synaptic terminals, activating NMDA receptors and the MAP kinase pathway. In the arcuate nucleus, a major regulator of anterior pituitary function, estradiol increases GABA synthesis, altering the morphology of neighboring astrocytes and reducing formation of dendritic spines synapses. Glutamate, GABA and the importance of neuronal-astrocytic cross-talk are emerging as common aspects of masculinization. Advances are also being made in the mechanistic basis of female brain development, although the challenges are far greater.
The many roles of starburst amacrine cells

Starburst amacrine cells release two classical neurotransmitters, ACh and GABA. In a tour de force of paired-cell recording, Zheng et al. now show that the starburst cells are mutually excitatory during early development but mutually inhibitory in adult animals. The change occurs by remodeling of both the cholinergic and the GABAergic synapses between starburst cells. The finding gives a precise mechanistic basis for the developmental waves of activity in the retina.
Room-temperature quantum oscillations in Ge junctionless MOSFETs at the scaling limit

Quantum effects play a significant role in the characteristics of nanoscale devices. Observation of quantum phenomena is often limited to low temperature measurements. Shrinking device sizes to the scaling limit of several nanometers can make quantum energy gap overcome thermal broadening, so that quantum characteristics become prominent even at room temperature. In this abstract, by combining the junctionless MOSFET structure and a novel V-groove etch process [1], we demonstrate germanium on insulator (GeOI) junctionless pMOSFETs with ultra-thin channel thickness (Tch) and sub-10nm channel length (Lch). Devices with Lch from 6 to 15 nm show strong quantum oscillations in Ids-Vgs characteristics at room temperature. Control devices, with thicker channels, show large Ion/Ioff ratios of > 105, and high drain currents of 650 mA/mm.
Processing of deviant information in inference and descriptive tasks with simultaneous and serial presentation

Abstract The weighting of deviant scores was studied in simultaneous and serial number-averaging tasks. In the Descriptive Task subjects were instructed to estimate the mean of each set of numbers; in the Inference Task subjects were instructed to use sample information to infer a population mean; and in the Discounting Task subjects were instructed to disregard a deviant or unrepresentative number when inferring a population mean. Results for the Discounting Task showed that a deviant number within a sample was discounted with either simultaneous or serial presentation. In the Descriptive Task, a deviant number was weighted at least as much as other numbers. In the Inference Task there was a tendency to discount deviant numbers, but this tendency was much less with serial presentation than with simultaneous presentation. The processing of deviant information thus differed between descriptive and inference tasks, but this difference was attenuated with serial presentation.
Impact of family history of alcoholism on glutamine/glutamate ratio in anterior cingulate cortex in substance-naïve adolescents.

Abstract Neuroimaging studies of individuals with family histories of alcoholism provide evidence suggesting neurobiological risk factors for alcoholism. Youth family history positive (FH+) for alcoholism exhibit increased impulsivity compared to family history negative (FH−) peers in conjunction with altered functional activation in prefrontal cortex, including anterior cingulate cortex (ACC). This study examined glutamate (Glu) and glutamine (Gln), amino acids vital to protein synthesis, cellular metabolism and neurotransmission, acquired from ACC and parieto-occipital cortex (POC) using magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) at 4T. Participants were 28 adolescents (13 male, 12–14 yrs) and 31 emerging adults (16 male, 18–25 yrs), stratified into FH− and FH+ groups. Significantly higher ACC Gln/Glu was observed in emerging adults versus adolescents in FH− but not FH+ groups. In FH− adolescents, higher impulsivity was significantly associated with higher ACC Gln/Glu. In FH+ emerging adults, higher impulsivity was negatively associated with ACC Gln/Glu. No differences or associations were observed for POC. These findings provide preliminary evidence that family history of alcoholism is associated with a neurochemical profile that may influence normative age differences in glutamatergic metabolites and their association with impulse control, which together could confer greater genetic risk of addiction later in life.
The effects of feeding frequency on growth of juvenile Atlantic halibut, Hippoglossus hippoglossus L.

Four experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of feeding frequency on growth of juvenile Atlantic halibut, Hippoglossus hippoglossus L. Fish (22–75 g) fed three (3 ×) or five times per day (5 × day−1) under constant light and temperature (13±1°C) consumed significantly more feed than fish fed 1 × day−1 but by the end of the experiment only fish fed 5 × day−1 were heavier and had greater specific growth rates (SGR). Under simulated winter conditions (9L:15D, 5±1°C), halibut (∼300 g) fed every other day consumed more feed, had a greater SGR and final weight compared with fish fed every third day. Feed conversion ratios were not different among treatment groups in any of the experiments. These results suggest that growth rates may be improved by feeding juvenile halibut more than 1 × day−1.
Telerobotic surgery for right and sigmoid colectomies: 30 consecutive cases.

Background This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of using a robotic assistant for colon resections. This report describes the experience, advantages, and disadvantages of using the DaVinci system for a colectomy on the basis of 30 consecutive cases managed by a minimally invasive surgery fellowship–trained surgeon.
Nano-crystals of titanium dioxide in aluminum oxide: A transparent self-cleaning coating applicable to solar energy

Abstract A novel coating on soda-lime glass provided both self-cleaning properties, when exposed to sunlight, and high optical transparency (up to 91%). This coating was obtained from a dispersion of titanium dioxide nanocrystals in an aqueous hydrochloric acid solution of aluminum triisopropoxide. Applying this suspension to the glass substrate, and then heating 400 °C, resulted in a coating remaining on the glass surface. Interestingly, the transmission of light through the coated glass is slightly increased by circa 1–2% in the visible region (400–850 nm). The alumina/titanium dioxide coated glass exhibits photocatalytic activity on exposure to ultraviolat light (255 and 366 nm) in a laboratory setting and when placed in natural sunlight. A preliminary field test was conducted where samples of uncoated glass and alumina/titanium dioxide coated glass where placed outdoor side-by-side for two months. Uncoated glass samples became soiled resulting in a decreased transparency to circa 73–80%T at 580 nm (90%T at 580 nm when clean). In contrast the coated glass samples decreased only slightly to circa 90%T at 580 nm (91%T at 580 nm when clean). Substrates other than soda lime glass were also coated with a film of alumina/titanium dioxide without adversely affecting the properties of the substrate while providing photocatalytic activity.
Study of igniter design and applications to low smoke solid rockets

A simple analysis of igniter design is described which is sufficiently general to be applicable to any 'basket'-type housing containing one or more charges. The gas equation of state is used in conjunction with the experimentally determined propellant burning-rate law to predict the pressure-time histories in the igniter housing and the rocket motor. Typical numerical results are presented for three cases which represent three experimental conditions tested in a project on low-smoke motors where the requirements on the exhaust were sufficiently stringent to preclude condensible matter from the igniter. Pressure was measured continuously in time at two locations in the igniter housing and at the head end of the motor case. The agreement between theoretical and experimental results is felt to be encouraging considering the complexity of the problem and the many simplifications in the analysis.
Formation and Colloidal Stability of DMPC Supported Lipid Bilayers on SiO2 Nanobeads

Supported lipid bilayers (SLBs) of 1,2-dimyristoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DMPC) were formed on 20−100 nm silica (SiO2) nanobeads, and the formation was accompanied by an 8 nm increase in diameter of the SiO2, consistent with single nanobeads surrounded by a DMPC bilayer. Complete SLBs were formed when the nominal surface areas of the DMPC matched that of the silica, SADMPC/SASiO2 = 1, and required increasing ionic strength and time to form on smaller size nanobeads, as shown by a combination of nano-differential scanning calorimetry (nano-DSC), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and zeta potential (ζ) measurements. For 5 nm SiO2, where the nanoparticle and DMPC dimensions were comparable, DMPC fused and formed SLBs on the nanobeads, but it did not form single bilayers around them. Instead, stable agglomerates of 150−1000 nm were formed over a wide surface ratio range (0.25 ≤ SADMPC/SASiO2 1 mM NaCl, charge shielding, as measured by zeta potential measurements ...
From the Special Issue Editors... Special Issue on Psychology and Decision Analysis

Decision analysis and the psychology of judgment and decision making are two distinct fields linked by common foundations and overlapping communities of researchers. Progress in psychological science is important to decision analysis because it provides insights about when decision analysis is likely to be needed as well as the practical problems we may encounter in implementing analytic processes in real world settings. This special issue includes four contributions to the psychology of decision making that are relevant to prescriptive decision analysis. The first article proposes a theoretical account of when choice heuristics are likely to perform well (or not) relative to normative benchmarks. The second contribution examines how decision makers aggregate multiple sources of information. The third article reports a survey study of real-world risk-taking behavior, and the fourth article investigates the sensitivity of probability assessments to time horizons.
Crystal structures of two platinum-bipyrimidine complexes: Pt(bpm)Cl2·dmf and Pt(bpm)(dmso)(SO4)·H2O

Red Pt(bpm)Cl2·dmf forms a stacked structure which has Pt…Pt separations of 3.423(2) A and 3.447(2) A with Pt…Pt…Pt angles of 155.39(3)o. The unit cell isP-1, witha=6.712(4) A,b=10.0765(6) A,c=11.551(3) A, α=106.732(12)o, β=103.65(4)o, γ=90.46(3)o, andZ=2. The structure refined to anR(F) of 0.046 using 181 parameter and 2165 reflections withI>1σ(I). The yellow complex Pt(bpm)(dmso)(SO4)·H2O does not stack in the solid state: the shortest Pt…Pt separation is 4.638(2) A. The unit cell is alsoP-1, witha=8.060(3) A,b=9.560(3) A,c=9.7534(18) A, α=90.62(2)o, β=99.43(3)o, γ=90.66(3)o, andZ=2. The structure refined to anR(F) of 0.039 using 208 parameters and 3689 reflections withI>1σ(l).
A Cul4 E3 Ubiquitin Ligase Regulates Histone Hand-Off during Nucleosome Assembly

Summary Nucleosome assembly following DNA replication and gene transcription is important to maintain genome stability and epigenetic information. Newly synthesized histones H3-H4 first bind histone chaperone Asf1 and are then transferred to other chaperones for nucleosome assembly. However, it is unknown how H3-H4 is transferred from the Asf1-H3-H4 complex to other chaperones because Asf1 binds H3-H4 with high affinity. Here, we show that yeast Rtt101 Mms1 E3 ubiquitin ligase preferentially binds and ubiquitylates new histone H3 acetylated at lysine 56. Inactivation of Rtt101 or mutating H3 lysine residues ubiquitylated by the Rtt101 Mms1 ligase impairs nucleosome assembly and promotes Asf1-H3 interactions. Similar phenotypes occur in human cells in which the ortholog of Rtt101 Mms1 , Cul4A DDB1 , is depleted. These results indicate that the transfer of H3-H4 from the Asf1-H3-H4 complex to other histone chaperones is regulated by a conserved E3 ligase and provide evidence for crosstalk between histone acetylation and ubiquitylation in nucleosome assembly.
On proper coverings of Artin stacks

Abstract We prove that every separated Artin stack of finite type over a noetherian base scheme admits a proper covering by a quasi-projective scheme. An application of this result is a version of the Grothendieck existence theorem for Artin stacks.
Osmotic permeability of Novikoff hepatoma cells.

Abstract The osmotic permeability coefficient (Pf) for water movement across Novikoff hepatoma cells was found to be 82 ± 3 (S.E.) · 10−5 cm · s−1 at 20°C. The corresponding diffusional permeability coefficient for 3HHO (Pd) was 97 ± 10 (S.E.) · 10−5 cm · s−1, therefore the ratio P f P d is close to unity. The apparent activation energy for water filtration was 10.4 ± 0.4 (S.E.) kcal · mol−1. This value is significantly greater than the activation energy for the self diffusion of water. The product of the hydraulic permeability coefficient and the viscosity coefficient for water was temperature-dependent. However, the product of the hydraulic permeability coefficient and the viscosity coefficient for membrane lipid did not vary with temperature. These data are interpreted as evidence for water movement across a lipid membrane barrier rather than through aqueous channels.
The novel anticoagulants: The surgeons' prospective

Anticoagulants can complicate the approach to the management of patients undergoing operative interventions. We review new anticoagulants that have been introduced recently to the market or that are undergoing investigations for treatment of nonvalvular atrial fibrillation and venous thromboembolism prophylaxis: Dabigatran, rivaroxaban, apixiban, and edoxaban.
Alterations in systemic complement component 3a and 5a levels in patients with cerebral arteriovenous malformations.

Abstract The role of the complement cascade in the pathophysiology of cerebral arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is largely undefined. Complement subcomponents, C3a and C5a, are potent anaphylatoxins and key mediators of immuno-inflammatory response. Complement activation may contribute to the pro-inflammatory state observed in AVM. Thus, we sought to determine the systemic levels of C3a and C5a and their response to treatments in patients with AVM. Blood samples of 18 patients undergoing treatment for unruptured AVM, and from 30 healthy control participants, were obtained at four times: (i) pre-treatment, (ii) 24-hours post-embolization, (iii) 24-hours post-resection, and at 1-month follow-up. Plasma concentrations of C3a and C5a were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The pre-treatment mean plasma C3a level was significantly higher in patients with AVM (1817 ± 168 ng/mL) compared to controls (1126 ± 151 ng/mL). The mean C3a level decreased 24-hours after embolization (1482 ± 170 ng/mL) and remained at statistically similar levels 24-hours after resection (1511 ± 149 ng/mL) and at 1-month follow-up (1535 ± 133 ng/mL). Mean C3a levels at the three time points were higher than control levels. The baseline mean plasma C5a level was significantly elevated in patients with AVM (13.1 ± 2.2 ng/mL) compared to controls (3.9 ± 1.5 ng/mL). Mean C5a level decreased post-embolization (8.2 ± 2.3 ng/mL) and remained at similar levels post-resection (8.5 ± 3.0 ng/mL) and at 1-month follow-up (7.7 ± 2.9 ng/mL). Mean C5a levels at the three time points were significantly higher than the control levels. We conclude that systemic C3a and C5a levels in patients with AVM are elevated at baseline, decrease significantly after embolization, and remain at the new baseline levels after surgery and 1-month follow-up.
Theoretical study of the spectroscopy of Al2

Abstract The electronic states of Al 2 + below about 40 000 cm −1 are studied using a CASSCF/MRCI approach in a large Gaussian basis set. The computed spectroscopic constants, excitation energies, Einstein coefficients, and radiative lifetimes should give insight into the spectroscopy of this ion.
Estradiol-17β and thyrotropin-releasing hormone stimulate prolactin release from the pituitary gland of a teleost fish in vitro

The effects of estradiol-17 beta (E2) and thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) on prolactin (PRL) release were investigated using the organ-cultured rostral pars distalis (RPD) of the tilapia, Oreochromis mossambicus. Spontaneous PRL release into hyperosmotic medium increased in a dose-related manner following E2 pretreatment in vitro. In addition, TRH stimulated a dose-related increase in PRL release from E2-preincubated RPD's, but had no effect on tissues not previously exposed to E2. The maximal PRL response, nearly three times control levels, occurred at 50 nM TRH. Higher doses of TRH were less effective in stimulating PRL release. These findings indicate that TRH may be an important hypothalamic prolactin-releasing factor in the tilapia. Furthermore, the marked potentiation of the action of TRH on PRL release following exposure to E2 suggest that there may be a shift in the control of PRL secretion with changes in the reproductive state of the tilapia.
Economic Conditions and Congressional Elections: An Attempt to Control for the Depression

There are reasons to give special attention to the depression of the 1930s when attempting to estimate the relationship between economic conditions and congressional election results. In this analysis, a separate independent variable is used to account for the effects of the depression. Regression equations are estimated with and without the depression variable in order to allow for comparison. The relationship between economic conditions and election results is different when the depression variable is included.
Sizing the US destroyer fleet

Abstract For the US Navy to be successful, it must make good investments in combatant ships. Historically a vital component in these decisions is expert opinion. This paper illustrates that the use of quantitative methods in conjunction with expert opinion can add considerable insight. We use the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) to gather expert opinions. Then, distributions are derived based on these expert opinions, and integrated into a mixed integer programming model to derive a distribution for the “effectiveness” of a fleet with a particular mix of ships. These ideas are applied to the planning scenario for the 2015 conflict on the Korean Peninsula, one of the two key scenarios that the Department of Defense uses for planning.
Temperature dependence of index of refraction, reflection, and extinction coefficient of liquid sulfur in the 0.4-2.0-[mgr ]m wavelength range.

The index of refraction n and the extinction coefficient k of liquid sulfur in the 0.4–2.0-μm wavelength region were measured at several temperatures between 121 and 183°C. From these data the reflectance R was calculated. These parameters show a change in behavior with increasing temperature. The n vs temperature curves for λ = 0.4 and 0.45 μm show an earlier rise with temperature compared with those for longer wavelengths. Results for cooling the liquid from around 180°C reveal an overall difference relative to heating the liquid from 121°C. Values of n for the supercooled liquid down to 85°C are given. A discussion of the results is presented.
Physiological and pathological functions of P2X7 receptor in the spinal cord

ATP-mediated signaling has widespread actions in the nervous system from neurotransmission to regulation of proliferation. In addition, ATP is released during injury and associated to immune and inflammatory responses. Still, the potential of therapeutic intervention of purinergic signaling during pathological states is only now beginning to be explored because of the large number of purinergic receptors subtypes involved, the complex and often overlapping pharmacology and because ATP has effects on every major cell type present in the CNS. In this review, we will focus on a subclass of purinergic-ligand-gated ion channels, the P2X7 receptor, its pattern of expression and its function in the spinal cord where it is abundantly expressed. We will discuss the mechanisms for P2X7R actions and the potential that manipulating the P2X7R signaling pathway may have for therapeutic intervention in pathological events, specifically in the spinal cord.
CuO nanoparticle filled vinyl-ester resin nanocomposites: Fabrication, characterization and property analysis

Abstract Both unmodified cupric oxide (CuO) nanoparticles and those functionalized with a bi-functional coupling agent methacryloxypropyl-trimethoxysilane (MPS) were used to fabricate vinyl-ester resin polymeric nanocomposites. The nanoparticle functionalization was observed to have a significant effect on the physical properties of the cupric oxide filled vinyl-ester resin nanocomposite. Thermal degradation study by thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA) showed the increased thermo-stability in the functionalized-nanoparticle-filled vinyl-ester resin nanocomposites as compared with the unmodified-nanoparticle-filled counterparts. The more uniform particle dispersion and the chemical bond between nanoparticle and vinyl-ester resin were found to contribute to the increased thermal stability and enhanced tensile strength.
Synthesis, characterization, and luminescent properties of dinuclear gold(I) xanthate complexes: X-ray structure of [Au2(nBu-xanthate)2]

The synthesis and characterization of gold(I) complexes of butyl xanthate [Au(2)((n)()Bu-xanthate)(2)], 1, and ethyl xanthate [Au(2)(Et-xanthate)(2)], 2, are described. These complexes are readily prepared from the reaction between Au(THT)Cl (THT = tetrahydrothiophene) and the corresponding xanthate ligands as the potassium salts. The two xanthate complexes are characterized by (1)H NMR, IR, mass spectrometry, elemental analysis, and UV-vis techniques. Thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential thermal analysis (DTA) show that the gold xanthate complexes decompose to yield mainly gold metal at approximately 200 degrees C, confirmed by X-ray powder diffraction. Excitation of the complexes at 450 nm in the solid state at 77 K produces a strong red emission at ca. 690 nm with a broad asymmetric profile tailing to 850 nm. The dinuclear gold(I) xanthate complex, [Au(2)(nBu-xanthate)(2)], 1, is the first structurally characterized binary Au(I) xanthate. The Au...Au distance in the eight-membered ring is 2.8494(15) A while the shortest intermolecular Au...Au interaction between independent units is 3.64 A. The angle between the planes containing the molecules in the unit cell is approximately 69.56 degrees. The light green plates of [Au(mu-S(2)COBu(n))](2) crystallize in the orthorhombic space group P2(1)2(1)2 with a = 37.254(14) A, b = 7.287(3) A, c = 6.054(2) A, alpha = beta = gamma = 90 degrees, Z = 4, and V = 1643.4(11) A(3).
Differing Discourses on Early Childhood Teacher Development

While there appears to be growing consensus among researchers and national policy advisors about what a preschool teacher is expected to know and be able to do, little is known about the views of those who are expected to enact these standards. The purpose of this study was to examine the perspectives of key stakeholders involved in one state's efforts to create a system of early childhood teacher preparation and professional development. Our aim was to understand both the similarities and differences between current standards and the views of those in the field. The findings reveal several tensions between current policy expectations and what stakeholders view as important for teachers to be able to know and do.
The representation and processing of coreference in discourse

A model is presented that addresses both the distribution and comprehension of different forms of referring expressions in language. This model is expressed in a formalism (Kamp & Reyle, 1993) that uses interpretive rules to map syntactic representations onto representations of discourse. Basic interpretive rules are developed for names, pronouns, definite descriptions, and quantified descriptions. These rules are triggered by syntactic input and interact dynamically with representations of discourse to establish reference and coreference. This interaction determines the ease with which coreference can be established for different linguistic forms given the existing discourse context. The performance of the model approximates that observed in studies of intuitive judgments of grammaticality and studies using online measures of language comprehension. The model uses the same basic interpretive mechanisms for coreference within and between sentences, thereby linking the domain traditionally studied by generative linguists to domains that have been of concern primarily to psychologists and computational linguists.
Outcome of therapy-related acute promyelocytic leukemia with or without arsenic trioxide as a component of frontline therapy

Although the majority of patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) have de novo disease with no clear underlying etiology, an increasing number of cases have been linked to prior exposure to chemotherapy, in particular to topoisomerase II inhibitors.1,2 Recent work has demonstrated specific hot spots in the breakpoint region of the PML and RARA genes, underscoring the causative role of topoisomerase II inhibitors in the etiology of these leukemias.3–5 In addition to topoisomerase II inhibitors, many other classes of cytotoxic agents (such as alkylating agents and nucleoside analogues), as well as radiotherapy alone, have been linked to therapy-related acute myeloid leukemias in general6–13 and therapy-related APL (t-APL) in particular.1 Many of these studies did not specify all the cytogenetic subtypes of the patients with therapy-related acute myeloid leukemias. Treatment with regimens containing all-trans-retinoic acid (ATRA) has revolutionized outcomes in APL.14 More recently, arsenic trioxide (ATO), either alone or in combination with ATRA, was shown to be effective and less toxic than chemotherapy as frontline therapy for APL.15–17 Previous reports have established outcomes of patients with t-APL,1,2,18 comparing them with de novo APL. However, to the best of our knowledge, none included patients who were treated with ATO as a part of their initial therapy. The objective of the current study was to characterize clinical parameters and treatment outcomes of 29 patients with t-APL at the study institution, 19 of whom were treated with a frontline ATO-containing regimen.
Enhanced contrast sensitivity in auditory cortex as cats learn to discriminate sound frequencies.

To better understand the nature and time course for learning-induced cortical reorganization, we examined frequency-specific changes in auditory cortex as cats gradually improved at a difficult sound frequency discrimination task. Three adult cats were trained to discriminate between a tone pip at a fixed target frequency (S−) and a higher deviant frequency (S+). An adaptive training schedule led to an efficient estimate of the frequency discrimination threshold (FDT), which was used to track daily performance. Each cat was also implanted with an array of microwires in auditory cortex. Tone pips with different frequency and amplitude were used to map receptive fields. Onset responses were correlated with training time and the cat's ability to discriminate frequencies. Although lifetime of the neural implants varied among cats, each provided sufficient neural recording to relate at least 3 weeks of learning to response changes in the cortex. An improved FDT was associated with a differential decrease in response strength between the S− frequency and S+ frequencies. Response to the training frequencies gradually located in a local minimum compared to adjacent frequencies (p < 0.001, Cohen's d=0.50). Cortical changes were consistent with a theory of bimodal generalization that enhances stimulus classification by reducing similarity between reinforced and nonreinforced stimuli. Such a strategy may be especially appropriate during an early stage of learning to discriminate similar sounds and differ from later strategies required for fine discrimination.
Biohydrogen gas production from food processing and domestic wastewaters

The food processing industry produces highly concentrated, carbohydrate-rich wastewaters, but their potential for biological hydrogen production has not been extensively studied. Wastewaters were obtained fromfour different food-processing industries that had chemical oxygen demands of 9 g/L (apple processing), 21 g/L (potato processing), and 0.6 and 20 g/L (confectioners A and B). Biogas produced fromall four food processing wastewaters consistently contained 60% hydrogen, with the balance as carbon dioxide. Chemical oxygen demand (COD) removals as a result of hydrogen gas production were generally in the range of 5–11%. Overall hydrogen gas conversions were 0.7–0.9 L-H2/L-wastewater for the apple wastewater, 0.1 L/L for Confectioner-A, 0.4–2.0 L/L for Confectioner B, and 2.1–2.8 L/L for the potato wastewater. When nutrients were added to samples, there was a good correlation between hydrogen production and COD removal, with an average of 0.10±0.01 L-H2/gCOD. However, hydrogen production could not be correlated to COD removal in the absence of nutrients or in more extensive in-plant tests at the potato processing facility. Gas produced by a domestic wastewater sample (concentrated 25 ×) contained only 23±8% hydrogen, resulting in an estimated maximum production of only 0.01 L/L for the original, non-diluted wastewater. Based on an observed hydrogen production yield fromthe effluent of the potato processing plant of 1.0 L-H 2/L, and annual flows at the potato processing plant, it was estimated that if hydrogen gas was produced at this site it could be worth as much as $65,000/year. 2004 International Association for Hydrogen Energy. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Acoustic matching of superconducting films to substrates

Acoustic mismatch theory is used to estimate phonon transmission coefficients for various superconductor/substrate interfaces. It is shown that the conventionally employed substrates offer the largest acoustic mismatch to many of the commonly studied superconductors, thereby leading to unnecessarily large phonon-trapping and other nonequilibrium effects. Most available experimental results are shown to be in reasonable agreement with the theoretical estimates.
Anomalies in the irreversibility line and upper critical field of the electron-doped superconductor Sm1.85Ce0.15CuO4−y

Abstract We report the observation of anomalies in the irreversibility line H ( T ∗ ) and resistive upper critical field H c2 ( T ) for two different samples of the electron-doped superconductor Sm 1.85 Ce 0.15 CuO 4− y , a specimen consisting of magnetically aligned single-crystal grains and a single crystal. The irreversibility line conforms to a power a law dependence in the H-T plane with an exponent that changes at T ∗ T c ≅0.5 and H ≅1 kOe m ≅1.8 in low fields to m ≅4.2 in high fields, for applied magnetic fields parallel to the c -axis. These observations may indicate two different temperature and/or field dependences for the pinning potential. A single value of m =1.6 is observed for the exponent of the irreversibility line for H ⊥ c in the field and temperature range studied. The resistively determined H c2 ( T ) data taken with H ‖ c show the same power law behavior, with a change in the value of the exponent at T T c ≅0.5 and H ≅10 kOe from m =1.6 in low fields to m =2.4 in high fields. For H ⊥ c , the H c2 ( T ) data are characterized by a single exponent m =1.4 in the field and temperature range studied.
A unique methodology for the stability robustness of multiple time delay systems

Abstract The stability robustness is considered for linear time invariant (LTI) systems with rationally independent multiple time delays against delay uncertainties. The problem is known to be notoriously complex, primarily because the systems are infinite dimensional due to delays. Multiplicity of the delays in this study complicates the analysis even further. And “rationally independent” feature of the delays makes the problem prohibitively challenging as opposed to the TDS with commensurate time delays (where time delays are rationally related). A unique framework is described for this broadly studied problem and the enabling propositions are proven. We show that this procedure analytically reveals all possible stability regions exclusively in the space of the delays. As an added strength, it does not require the delay-free system under consideration to be stable. Our methodology offers a resolution to this question, which has been studied from variety of directions in the past four decades. None of these respectable investigations can, however, deliver an exact and exhaustive robustness declaration. From this stand point the new method has a unique contribution.
Standing the test of time variations.

In his News Focus story “Renewables test IQ of the grid” (10 April, p. [172][1]), D. Charles describes the widely held belief that large-scale use of renewables will become viable with a smart electric grid and short-term energy storage devices (such as pumped storage and batteries). However, the problems of integrating renewables with the electricity grid in a low-carbon world are much larger. Renewables are a time-varying source of energy that does not automatically match the demand-side time variations. Electricity demand varies daily, over a 3-day weather-related cycle, weekly, and seasonally. The seasonal variation in electric demand in much of the country is greater than a factor of 2, with seasonal mismatches between renewable production and demand. In a low-carbon world, the major energy options (nuclear, fossil fuels with carbon-dioxide sequestration, and renewables) have high capital costs and low operating costs. These high–capital-cost systems for electricity generation operate most economically when they are at full load all the time. For renewables, this is the maximum output given solar or wind conditions. To optimize their operation and to meet the storage needs of renewables requires systems that can store large amounts of energy and can do so on a daily to seasonal basis. The only existing such technologies are large hydroelectric dams—but there is not enough water storage capacity to meet the need. There is limited ongoing work on several new technologies. For example, in nuclear-hydrogen peak electricity systems, the nuclear reactor operates at steady state on a continuous basis ([ 1 ][2]). At times of low electricity demand, steam and electricity from the reactor are converted to hydrogen and oxygen by a solid-oxide high-temperature electrolyzer. At times of peak electricity demand, the reactor sends electricity to the grid and the electrolyzer is operated in reverse on hydrogen and oxygen from storage as a high-temperature fuel cell to produce electricity. Large-scale seasonal hydrogen storage is economical with use of current underground natural gas storage technologies. Eliminating greenhouse gas emissions from electricity production and large-scale use of renewables is not possible until we develop multiple, seasonal, energy storage systems with fast response capability to address mismatches between electricity production and demand. ![Figure][3] Hydroelectric dam. Dams such as this one can store large amounts of energy on a flexible schedule, but they have insufficient water storage capacity globally to be our sole renewable energy source. CREDIT: JUPITERIMAGES 1. [↵][4] 1. C. W. Forsberg, 2. M. S. Kazimi , 4th OECD-NEA Information Exchange Meeting on the Nuclear Production of Hydrogen, 14 to 16 April 2009, Oakbrook, IL; . [1]: /lookup/doi/10.1126/science.324.5924.172 [2]: #ref-1 [3]: pending:yes [4]: #xref-ref-1-1 "View reference 1 in text"
Evidence-based instruction: assessing student work using rubrics and citation analysis to inform instructional design

This paper presents the findings of a study carried out by librarians in Champlain College who developed a two-pronged authentic assessment approach to measure the information literacy (IL) levels and determine the information seeking habits of students while conducting research for academic purposes. Librarians devised and developed an IL rubric and a citation analysis checklist for the assessment of first-year annotated bibliography assignment papers. This paper illustrates the merits of rubric-based, citation analysis assessment measures using authentic student coursework as a highly effective method of determining student outcomes assessment and information seeking habits while engaging in academic research. Findings from this study also suggest that authentic assessment is an extremely useful tool for instruction librarians to identify areas of IL that require further instructional support. This study is of importance to librarians wishing to adopt rubric-based and citation analysis authentic methods for student outcomes assessment. This paper is based on a presentation of the same name delivered at LILAC 2014.
Multiple Weighted Objectives Heuristic for the Redundancy Allocation Problem

A new heuristic is proposed and tested for system reliability optimization. The multiple weighted objective heuristic is based on a transformation of the problem into a multiple objective optimization problem, and then ultimately, transformation into a different single objective problem. The multiple objectives are to simultaneously maximize the reliability of each individual subsystem. This is a logical approach because system reliability is the product of the subsystem reliabilities, so if they are maximized, the system reliability will also be high. This new formulation and associated heuristic are then based on solving a sequence of linear programming problems. It is one of the very few optimization approaches that allow for linear programming algorithms and software to be used for the redundancy allocation problem when mixing of functionally equivalent components is allowed. Thus, it represents an efficient solution method that relies on readily available optimization tools. The heuristic is tested on many example problems, and compared to competing solution approaches. Overall, the heuristic performance is observed to be very good on the tested problem, and superior to the max-min heuristic regarding both efficiency, and performance
Outcomes after out-of-hospital endotracheal intubation errors ,

Summary Introduction We sought to evaluate the association between three key out-of-hospital endotracheal intubation (ETI) errors and patient outcomes. Methods We prospectively collected multicenter data on out-of-hospital ETI attempted by Emergency Medical Service (EMS) rescuers. We probabilistically linked these data to statewide EMS, death and hospital discharge data sets. The key ETI error events were (1) endotracheal tube misplacement or dislodgement, (2) multiple ETI attempts (≥4 laryngoscopies) and (3) failed ETI. The primary outcomes were death (survival to hospital discharge) and secondary complications identified through ICD-9 discharge diagnoses. Using Cox regression with heavyside functions, we identified the associations between out-of-hospital ETI errors and early (in the field or emergency department) and later (on or after hospital admission) death. We censored non-linked cases, adjusted for important clinical covariates, and used a shared frailty regression model to account for clustering by EMS agency. We evaluated the associations between out-of-hospital ETI errors and secondary complications using univariable odds ratios with exact 95% confidence intervals. Results Of 1954 out-of-hospital ETI, 444 (22.7%) patients experienced one or more ETI errors, including tube misplacement or dislodgement in 61 (3%), multiple ETI attempts in 62 (3%) and failed ETI in 359 (15%). Of the 1196 (61%) cases linked to outcomes, 872 (73%) died and 323 (27%) survived to hospital discharge. ETI errors were not associated with early death (tube misplacement or dislodgement: Hazard Ratio 0.98, 95% CI 0.65–1.47; multiple ETI attempts: 1.22, 0.80–1.85; failed ETI: 1.10, 0.88–1.39) or later death (tube misplacement or dislodgement: 0.40, 0.10–1.62; multiple ETI attempts: 1.77, 0.23–13.30; failed ETI: 0.76, 0.47–1.25). Pneumonitis was associated with failed ETI ( n =20, 19%; univariable OR 2.54; 95% CI 1.24–5.25). Conclusion Out-of-hospital ETI errors are not associated with mortality. Failed out-of-hospital ETI increases the odds of pneumonitis.
A Combined Machinery and Control Systems Laboratory

This paper shows how, in the interest of emphasizing the systems concept, rotating machines have been integrated into a systems laboratory. Small machines provide the mechanical flexibility necessary in the emphasis of the systems concept, yet essential machine characteristics are retained. The paper also demonstrates how machine characteristics are interpreted to provide information for the analysis for an electromechanical system which includes the machine as a component.
Sold!: auction methods for multirobot coordination

The key to utilizing the potential of multirobot systems is cooperation. How can we achieve cooperation in systems composed of failure-prone autonomous robots operating in noisy, dynamic environments? We present a method of dynamic task allocation for groups of such robots. We implemented and tested an auction-based task allocation system which we call MURDOCH, built upon a principled, resource centric, publish/subscribe communication model. A variant of the Contract Net Protocol, MURDOCH produces a distributed approximation to a global optimum of resource usage. We validated MURDOCH in two very different domains: a tightly coupled multirobot physical manipulation task and a loosely coupled multirobot experiment in long-term autonomy. The primary contribution of the paper is to show empirically that distributed negotiation mechanisms such as MURDOCH are viable and effective for coordinating physical multirobot systems.
Antiarrhythmic efficacy, pharmacokinetics and safety of N-acetylprocainamide in human subjects: comparison with procainamide.

Abstract The antiarrhythmic efficacy and pharmacokinetics of N-acetylprocainamide (NAPA), the major metabolite of procainamide, were investigated in 23 patients with chronic, high frequency ventricular ectopic depolarizations. An extensive trial design incorporated the approaches of (1) generation of dose-response relations, (2) randomized crossover, and (3) prolonged electrocardiographic monitoring. Seven patients with reproducible suppression of arrhythmias (70 percent or greater reduction in frequency) were thus identified. The mean plasma concentration of acecainide associated with efficacy was 14.3 /gm/ml (range 9.4 to 19.5) and with side effects (primarlly gastrointestinal) was 22.5 μg/ml (10.6 to 37.9). The antiarrhythmic response to procainamide did not predict response to acecainide; this finding implies that estimates of the antiarrhythmic contribution of acecainide concentrations achieved during long-term procainamide therapy are unlikely to be meaningful in a given person. The mean half-life of elimination after a single 500 mg dose of acecainide was 7.5 hours; this had prolonged significantly (p