cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Oral Reading Fluency: Accuracy of Assessing Errors and Classification of Readers Using a 1-Min Timed Reading Sample

Children in general education are classified by measures of oral reading fluency (ORF) to determine the level of support needed for reading. In addition, teachers use ORF measures with children who receive special education services to determine whether they are making progress toward their reading goals. In this descriptive study, the authors examined the accuracy of scoring for the 45 preservice teachers using the ORF subtest of the Dynamic Indicator of Basic Early Literacy Skills (R. H. Good & R. A. Kaminski, 2002) for 1st- and 6th-grade readers. Preservice teachers correctly classified a 1st-grade reader by using cutoff points. However, 48.8% of preservice teachers incorrectly classified the 6th-grade reader when an alternative classification was more appropriate. The authors make practical recommendations for teachers to ensure accuracy of scoring with timed reading measurements.
Structural aspects of materials with static stripe order

Abstract A growing number of cuprate superconductors show evidence of an intrinsic spatial electronic inhomogeneity on a nanometer length scale. Corresponding observations were made with a variety of probes sensitive to the sample’s surface or bulk as well as to its average or local structure. Charge and spin stripe correlations constitute one class of inhomogeneity initially derived from neutron scattering data on La-based cuprates. By now magnetic excitation spectra with very similar dispersions were observed in several systems, suggesting that incommensurate spin fluctuations are a universal property of the cuprates. In contrast, it proves much harder to obtain a unified picture for the charge stripe correlations as observed with scattering and tunneling techniques. This article reviews the evidence of charge stripe correlations and their interactions with the crystal lattice in the La-based compounds, which are presently the only cuprates with confirmed static spin and charge stripe order. Particular emphasis is put on the relationship between stripe order and average and local structure properties, isotope effects, phonon anomalies, and doping dependencies. A second important topic concerns new insights obtained in studies of stripes under extreme conditions such as high magnetic fields and high pressure. Furthermore, the tilting of stripes in orthorhombic lattices will be discussed, as well as the possibility of diagonal charge stripes below the metal insulator transition, and alternative models for the stripe phase.
Entrepreneurial Environment and the Prevalence of Diabetes in U.S. Counities

Objective. To examine whether the presence of an entrepreneurial culture in a community is associated with county-level diabetes prevalence in the U.S. after accounting for high level of spatial clustering of prevalence rates observed in prior research. Methods. We perform a county-level spatial regression analysis of CDC diabetes prevalence rates. We measure entrepreneurial culture as the number of businesses with 0 to 4 employees per 1,000 residents. Results. The level of entrepreneurial culture in a community is associated with lower rates of diabetes. Our findings show that the key measure of entrepreneurial culture has expected effects on county diabetes rates. However, we show that failure to control for spatial error dependence in previous research leads to an overestimation of the effects of entrepreneurial culture on diabetes prevalence. Conclusion. Policies aimed at curbing diabetes prevalence should utilize the business community as a key agent of social change. Researchers should also utilize spatial regression techniques when analyzing county-level diabetes prevalence rates, because of high level of spatial clustering of rates.
The Subadult Plumage of Male Purple Martins: Variability, Female Mimicry and Recent Evolution

Like a number of other passerine birds year-old male purple martins, Progne subis, often breed in a ♀-like plumage. We have examined delayed plumage maturation in martins by testing assumptions and predictions derived from two hypotheses advanced to explain their appearance and behavior: the sexual selection hypothesis and the female mimicry hypothesis. First, we examine the success of subadults of different appearance 1) in dominance interactions with adults and with other subadults and 2) at entering colonies with different numbers of adults. Second, we compare the mating success of subadults of different appearance. Finally, we examine predictions from the female mimicry hypothesis concerning the appearance of subadults with regard to geographic variation in colony size and with regard to historical changes in colony size in Eastern North America.
Complex eigenvector scaling from mass perturbations

Abstract This paper presents an approach to normalize experimentally extracted complex eigenvectors so that their outer product gives transfer function residues. The approach, an implementation of the mass perturbation strategy, is exact for arbitrary perturbation magnitudes and number of sensors when the modal space is complete and is robust against modal truncation. It is shown that improvements over a sensitivity solution are significant when the relation between the eigenvalue and the perturbation magnitude is strongly nonlinear.
Load testing of Web sites

Developers typically measure a Web application's quality of service in terms of response time, throughput, and availability. Poor QoS translates into frustrated customers, which can lead to lost business opportunities. At the same time, company expenditures on a Web site's IT infrastructure are a function of the site's expected traffic. Ideally, you want to spend enough, and no more, allocating resources where they will generate the most benefit. For example, you should not upgrade your Web servers if customers experience most delays in the database server or load balancer. Thus, to maximize your ROI, you must determine when and how to upgrade IT infrastructure. One way to assess IT infrastructure performance is through load testing, which lets you assess how your Web site supports its expected workload by running a specified set of scripts that emulate customer behavior at different load levels. I describe the QoS factors load testing addresses, how to conduct load testing, and how it addresses business needs at several requirement levels.
Acute diclofenac treatment attenuates lipopolysaccharide-induced alterations to basic reward behavior and HPA axis activation in rats.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) counteract stress hormone and pro-inflammatory cytokine activation, and are being considered as therapeutics for Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis. Previous data from our laboratory revealed that repeated treatment with the NSAID diclofenac attenuated lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced alterations to reward behavior, implicating a role for NSAIDs in alleviating depressive-like behavior. To extend these findings, we sought to determine whether acute treatment with diclofenac would attenuate LPS-induced alterations to basic reward behavior, as well as neuroendocrine and neuroimmune function. Male, Wistar rats (n=8–9/grp) pressed a lever for sucrose pellet reward and after establishing a steady baseline were exposed to an injection of saline (1 ml/kg, SC) or diclofenac (2.5 mg/kg, SC) 30 min prior to a second injection of saline or LPS (20 μg/kg, IP). In saline pre-treated rats, LPS significantly reduced rate of sucrose pellet self-administration and total reinforcers obtained, suggestive of an anhedonia response. In addition, LPS increased corticosterone release, increased plasma intereleukin (IL)-1β release, increased IL-1β and IL-6 mRNA in hippocampus, increased corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) mRNA in pituitary, and decreased CRH-1 mRNA in pituitary. Importantly, the behavioral and neuroendocrine effects, but not neuroimmune effects, produced by LPS were significantly attenuated in rats pre-treated with diclofenac. These new data provide a comprehensive assessment of the acute effects of diclofenac on LPS exposure in rats and confirm a role for NSAIDs in attenuating endotoxin-induced anhedonia. Of particular importance, the data reveal that the observed effects are mediated via the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis at the level of the pituitary or above.
Protection of graphite electrodes from oxidation

Abstract In high temperature environments graphite has excellent physical properties. However, when it is exposed to oxidizing atmospheres it does not form solid oxides that could provide protection against further attack. Thus, the problem of protecting graphite electrodes against oxidation in air above 1000 °C has not yet been solved satisfactorily. This paper is concerned with a study to reduce oxidation of graphite electrodes with an inexpensive protective coating. The proposed coating was not designed to be inert to oxygen but to lower the graphite loss noticeably during a steel melting operation. This coating is composed basically of two layers that become modified when the coated graphite part is used. The first layer deposited onto graphite acts as a diffusion barrier for carbon. This layer also has to withstand oxidation because pores within graphite could contain oxygen. The second layer behaves as an oxygen retention material. The plasma spraying technique was deliberately selected to perform the coating. Nevertheless, the process chosen was found to avoid noxious reactions that could occur between the coating components. Coated graphite samples were first tested at 1600–1700 °C in air under isothermal as well as under cyclic conditions. After it had been exposed for 6 h at 1700 °C, the coating did not spall off and still provided protection to the graphite. Furthermore, industrial graphite electrodes were coated and tested in a steel making plant. The coating was found to reduce the graphite loss significantly.
Prostate cancer: Does genetic score justify early prostate biopsy?

A newly developed genetic risk score derived from studies of several single nucleotide polymorphisms has the potential to improve the prediction of prostate cancer detection on biopsy for men with PSA levels of 1–3 ng/ml. Understanding the score's characteristic differences from biomarkers is important in order to utilize it correctly.
A simple new shoreline change model

A simple new shoreline change model has been developed and calibrated/evaluated with several sets of high quality field data. The model is based upon the general observation that the shoreline tends to approach an equilibrium position exponentially with time when subjected to constant forcing. The model represents the shoreline response to cross-shore processes only and is extremely efficient, requiring only readily obtainable wave and water-level data as input. Shoreline changes are forced by changes in the local water surface elevation due to a combination of local tide, storm surge and wave-induced setup. The model contains three adjustable parameters, representing a baseline condition from which equilibrium shoreline displacements are calculated, and two rate constants, all of which are evaluated by minimizing the error between model hindcasts and several historical shoreline data sets. Several possible forms for the rate parameters, incorporating local wave and sediment properties, were considered and evaluated. At most sites, the model has proven successful in predicting large-scale shoreline response to local water level and wave forcing. The combination of model accuracy and efficiency, along with the minimal data required to drive the model, make it a potentially useful tool in many coastal engineering applications. As more high-quality shoreline, wave and water-level data sets become available, significant improvements can be made in the determination of the rate parameter governing the time scale of the beach response.
Existence of solutions for discontinuous differential equations

Existence of solutions to initial value problems involving a discontinuous differential equation is studied. Under fairly weak conditions, existence of Caratheodory solutions is proven. Comparisons to theorems in the literature are given and motivation for the result is also discussed.
A proposed revision of current ICD-9-CM malnutrition code definitions

Abstract Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) is as common today in adult medical and surgical patients as it was when it was first identified more than 25 years ago. Under the current diagnosis-related group (DRG) payment system, malnutrition is considered a comorbidity or complicating condition. Thus, the identification and coding of malnutrition through the use of the International Classification of Diseases , ninth edition, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM) malnutrition codes can potentially change a patient's DRG and subsequently increase the amount of reimbursement a hospital receives. Unfortunately, the definitions for the current ICD-9-CM malnutrition diagnosis codes were developed principally in relation to clinical syndromes of primary PEM seen in pediatric age groups in less developed countries, rather than in relation to syndromes seen in hospitalized adult patients in industrialized societies. This discrepancy often leads to confusion and inconsistency when institutions attempt to code adult patients for malnutrition. Furthermore, inaccurate coding can result in inadequate reimbursement or rejection of a claim. Clearly, a separate description of the different forms of PEM seen in adults is needed not only for optimal application of nutrition support therapies but also for accurate medical records, quality assurance procedures, and reimbursement purposes. On the basis of 20 years of experience providing nutrition support to hospitalized adult patients, this article presents a schema developed at the Deaconess Hospital (Boston, Mass) that attempts to better define adult PEM using the ICD-9-CM malnutrition codes. The purpose of this article is to foster discussion and ultimately promote general agreement about a definition of adult PEM. J Am Diet Assoc. 1996; 96:370-373 .
A Randomized Trial of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Primary Care-based Buprenorphine

Abstract Objective To determine the impact of cognitive behavioral therapy on outcomes in primary care, office-based buprenorphine/naloxone treatment of opioid dependence. Methods We conducted a 24-week randomized clinical trial in 141 opioid-dependent patients in a primary care clinic. Patients were randomized to physician management or physician management plus cognitive behavioral therapy. Physician management was brief, manual guided, and medically focused; cognitive behavioral therapy was manual guided and provided for the first 12 weeks of treatment. The primary outcome measures were self-reported frequency of illicit opioid use and the maximum number of consecutive weeks of abstinence from illicit opioids, as documented by urine toxicology and self-report. Results The 2 treatments had similar effectiveness with respect to reduction in the mean self-reported frequency of opioid use, from 5.3 days per week (95% confidence interval, 5.1-5.5) at baseline to 0.4 (95% confidence interval, 0.1-0.6) for the second half of maintenance (P Conclusions Among patients receiving buprenorphine/naloxone in primary care for opioid dependence, the effectiveness of physician management did not differ significantly from that of physician management plus cognitive behavioral therapy.
Effectiveness of Dipping with Phosphate, Lactate and Acetic Acid Solutions on the Quality and Shelf‐life of Pork Loin Chop

Extending the shelf-life of pork loin chops by dipping in 2% acetic acid (AA), 10% sodium lactate (SL), or 10% trisodium phosphate (TSP), compared to the undipped control (CONT), was demonstrated. TSP had the highest pH and water-holding capacity. However, TSP had a dry and dark visual appearance on the loin chop surface, while AA was similar to pale, soft, and exadative (PSE) pork, CONT and SL had obvious putrid odor with TPC exceeding 10 CFU/g at d 6 and d 9, respectively. Pork loin chops dipped in 10% sodium lactate solution resulted in better visual appearance and lower microbial counts, suggesting a possible extension of the shelf-life to 6 d under refrigeration. Les cotes de porc trempees dans l'acide acetique a 2%, la lactate de sodium a 10%, ou le phosphate de sodium a 10% se conservent mieux que les cotes non traitees. Les cotes trempees dans le lactate de sodium a 10% ont une bonne apparence et une qualite microbiologique superieure, la duree de conservation par refrigeration dans ce cas pouvant etre etendue a 6 jours.
Thioreductase activity of retina cognin and its role in cell adhesion.

Retina cognin (R-cognin) is a 50-kDa protein on the surface of embryonic chick retina cells that mediates cell-cell recognition and neuronal differentiation. It is developmental stage- and tissue-specific in its expression. The partial cDNA clone for R-cognin is nearly identical to that of chicken protein disulfide isomerase (chicken PDI) and enzyme with thioreductase activity. The R-cognin clone extends from beyond the 3' polyadenylation site up to the boundary between PDI exons 1 and 2, with the putative R-cognin equivalent of PDI exon 1 remaining uncloned. The question posed here was whether the sequence-specific properties of PDI were significant in the action of R-cognin. We show that R-cognin, like PDI, has thioreductase activity as revealed by RNase renaturation enzymatic assays. We then asked if this thioreductase activity was involved in the mediation of cell adhesion and recognition in developing chick retina. We show, through cell aggregation assays, that both R-cognin and chicken PDI enhance chick retina cell aggregation but not that of cells from other CNS tissues. We also show that treating R-cognin and chicken PDI with the thioreductase inhibitor 5,5'-dithio-bis (2-nitrobenzoic acid), which covalently binds to the functional cysteines of the thioreductase active sites, reduces the enhancement of cell aggregation. Thus R-cognin acts, in part, by catalyzing a covalent protein-protein linkage at the cell surface.
Current uses of ultrasound in the evaluation of the breast

Ultrasound is an important imaging modality in evaluating the breast. One of the most common uses of ultrasound is to help distinguish benign from malignant breast disease, primarily with gray-scale ultrasound but also with Doppler ultrasound. Another common use is to provide guidance for interventional procedures. Less common uses include assisting in staging of breast cancer and evaluating patients with implants. Recently there has been an interest in using ultrasound to screen asymptomatic women for breast cancer, as is done with mammography. Further studies must be performed to assess if this reduces mortality from breast cancer. Although primarily used to image the female breast, ultrasound also can be used to evaluate breast-related concerns in men. Uses of contrast-enhanced ultrasound are still experimental and would add an invasive component to an otherwise noninvasive study.
Evolution of frequency modulation

SOME 60 years ago the electric-power industry began the development of a system of distribution which all are now agreed was not the right system. I am referring of course to the low-voltage d-c system. The inevitableness of its replacement by the high-voltage a-c system is now obvious to everyone, although the literature of the transition stage reflects a period of violently conflicting opinion.
Energy Efficient Block-Partitioned Multicore Processors for Parallel Applications

Due to the increasing power consumption in modern computing systems, energy management has become an important research area in the last decade. Recently, multicore has emerged to be an energy efficient architecture that exploits parallelisms in modern applications. However, as the number of cores on a single chip continues to increase, it has been a grand challenge on how to effectively manage the energy efficiency of multicore-based systems. In this paper, based on the voltage island and dynamic voltage and frequency scaling (DVFS) techniques, we investigate the energy efficiency of block-partitioned multicore processors, where cores are grouped into blocks with the cores on one block sharing a DVFSenabled power supply. Depending on the number of cores on each block, we study both symmetric and asymmetric block configurations. We develop a system-level power model (which can support various power management techniques) and derive both block- and system-wide energy-efficient frequencies for systems with block-partitioned multicore processors. Based on the power model, we prove that, for embarrassingly parallel applications, having all cores on a single block can achieve the same energy savings as that of the individual block configuration (where each core forms a single block and has its own power supply). However, for applications with limited degrees of parallelism, we show the superiority of the buddy-asymmetric block configuration, where the number of required blocks (and power supplies) is logarithmically related to the number of cores on the chip, in that it can achieve the same amount of energy savings as that of the individual block configuration. The energy efficiency of different block configurations is further evaluated through extensive simulations with both synthetic as well as a real life application.
A new look at the effects of unbalanced voltages upon synchronous and induction machines

Abstract Recently developed polyphase machine demonstration and analysis software is used to explore a phenomenon whose effects have been observed for many years: namely, that under certain conditions, significant imbalances in stator currents of polyphase AC machines (and thus in the phase power distribution and the internal steady-state magnetic field) can result from relatively minor imbalances in machine terminal voltage at certain loading levels. Using standard steady-state equivalent circuit models of synchronous and induction machines, it is shown that the presence of severe levels of current imbalance can be easily and effectively demonstrated. It is also shown how these effects can be readily simulated and analyzed in order to help underscore the need for stringent voltage imbalance limits.
Ultrastructure of merkel cells in the hard palate of the squirrel monkey (Saimiri sciureus)

The distribution and ultrastructure of Merkel cells in the hard palate was investigated in the squirrel monkey (Saimiri sciureus) after fixation by vascular perfusion. Merkel cells were clustered at the base of the epithelial rete pegs of the hard palate. They were characterized by concentrations of dense-cored granules and closely associated intraepithelial nerve endings. Numerous spiny processes extending from the Merkel cell were intercalated with adjacent keratinocytes, probably serving to detect and amplify movement of adjacent cells. These spiny processes contained a rigid core of parallel microfilaments which were interrelated with cytoplasmic filament bundles located beneath the cell membrane. Transitional cells containing dense-cored granules and well developed tonofibrils appear to be related to both Merkel cells and keratinocytes. The findings of this study suggest that Merkel cells are highly adapted for detection of movement in adjacent keratinocytes, as well as movement of the epithelium with respect to the underlying connective tissue.
Discourse Methods and Critical Practice in Professional Communication The Front-Stage and Back-Stage Discourse of Prognosis in Medicine

A set of discourse-based methods—genre theory, genre analysis, and discourse analysis—can provide a descriptive basis for a critical analysis of the multiple connections between discourse practices and their underlying concepts and categories within professions. To illustrate this theoretical and methodological project, this article analyzes prognosis in the discourse of medicine. Using Goffman’s (1959) distinction between front-stage and back-stage discourse, the author suggests that a back-stage discourse of prognosis points to problems with prognosis in the front-stage discourse of medical encounters between oncologists and patients who have been diagnosed with cancer. The analysis shows that the oral genre of treatment discussion in oncology encounters is organized to allow practitioners to do, appear to do, or avoid doing difficult work like presenting a prognosis. The article suggests that discourse-based methods have the potential to become the basis for productive critical engagement between pract...
Paediatric injuries incurred by being run over by a riding lawn mower: United States, 2002-2008.

Lawn mowers constitute a significant injury threat to children in the United States. Routine surveillance of injuries associated with riding mowers is needed in an effort to aid in the evaluation of the effectiveness of prevention efforts, such as changes in machine design. Because 25% of the injuries resulted in amputations and over half resulted in hospitalization, the potential severity of these injuries warrants further prevention efforts. Prevention efforts that group lawn mowers into a single category may not be highly productive as injuries associated with riding lawn movers vary widely in their cause, age groups affected and severity. These include assurances that children are not present in a yard when riding lawn mower is in use, never allowing children to ride as a passenger on a riding lawn mower, and increased awareness among riding lawn mower operators that children may be present. While passive protection in the form of better design of machines is a mainstay of prevention, continued education of operators, bystanders and child care providers is still needed.
Baseflow and Stormflow Transport of Nutrients from Mixed Agricultural Watersheds

(...) In two watersheds, 123 and 32.1 ha in size, containing woodland, pasture, and row crops, the majority of N moved from the watersheds in the storm runoff; however, 25 to 50% of the N transport was via baseflow. Using 10-yr averages, 5.0 and 2.8 kg/ha of mineral N were annually transported from the 123-ha watershed via 242 and 196 mm of storm runoff and baseflow, respectively; from the 32-ha watershed, 3.6 and 3.2 kg/ha of mineral N were annually transported via 144 and 198 mm of storm runoff and baseflow, respectively. (...)
An experimental investigation of consolidation in thermoplastic filament winding

Abstract Consolidation is a phase in composites manufacturing during which heat and pressure are applied with the intention of obtaining a monolithic structure from discrete plies, simultaneously remove voids and volatiles, achieve desired fibre volume fractions in the part and obtain correct dimensional tolerances. Final performance of a part will depend on its consolidated state. In most manufacturing processes consolidation follows after all the individual plies are laid in a desired fashion. However, in in-situ manufacturing techniques such as filament winding and pultrusion, the consolidation occurs as the plies are laid down. Hence the relative importance of mass, momentum and energy transport are different in such processes. This paper conducts an experimental investigation of consolidation in thermoplastic filament winding. Various approaches to characterize consolidation and the suitability of these approaches in describing consolidation quality in the filament winding process is evaluated. Experiments were conducted to identify dominant mechanisms during consolidation and also the role played by process variables on the quality of consolidation. The results show that the macro phenomena, such as resin flow, are dominant in determining consolidation quality in thermoplastic filament winding, within the processing window used. Further, it was seen that within a given range of process variables, increasing tension and temperature enhanced consolidation, while too high or too low a winding speed proved to be detrimental to obtaining effective consolidation.
Velocity-field dependence in GaAs

We show that the shape of the velocity versus electric-field curves in GaAs is closely related to the value of the low-field mobility. We propose a simple empirical relation that interpolates the V(F) curves in a wide range of the low-field mobilities and demonstrate that this interpolation is in a very good agreement with experimental data and Monte Carlo results.
Evaluations of the Overjustification Effect

The utility of reinforcement-based procedures has been well established in the behavior analysis literature and is commonly used in educational settings. However, the overjustification effect is one commonly cited criticism of programs that use tangible items as reinforcers. In the current studies, we evaluated the effects of tangible rewards contingent on engagement with leisure activities. We further evaluated the amount of engagement after the reward condition was discontinued. In Studies 1 and 2, tangible rewards were delivered for engaging with a preferred activity when only one leisure activity or several activities were available, respectively. Study 1 results did not support the overjustification hypothesis. Study 2 participants showed a decrease in activity engagement following the reward condition. It was not clear whether this was a result of extended exposure or overjustification. Thus, in Study 3, we extended exposure to preferred activities in one context without rewards. Study 3 results suggested that extended exposure to a preferred activity had effects that look similar to the overjustification effect but are probably best described as satiation.
Constriction of a microwave-induced plasma by a magnetic pinch

Abstract The microwave-induced plasma has been widely studied as a spectrochemical excitation source. The plasma is generally maintained in a quartz tube, and energy coupled via a cavity or antenna. Previous work has shown the importance of the electron density; plasma performance is improved as the instrumental parameters are adjusted to increase the electron density. Another method to increase the electron density is to constrict the plasma. Additionally, energy losses via wall-collision would be decreased if the plasma were moved away from the walls. This communication presents such a study, in which the plasma is ‘pinched’ by the application of an external magnetic field. Preliminary results show an increase in intensity by a factor of two. The constriction also tends to improve the atomization processes. Measurements performed on plasmas which contain carbon monoxide show a greater increase in the carbon atomic emission than the carbon monoxide molecular emission.
The Rank-Frequency Form of Zipf's Law

Abstract Suppose that there are K regions in a country, with Ni people and Mi cities in the ith region. Let Ni be large, Mi random, given Ni , and such that the distribution of M i N i –1, given Ni , converges to a limiting distribution F, with F(x) ∼ Cx γ as x → 0, γ > 0. Let L (r) be the size of the rth largest city in the country. If, given Mi and Ni , there is a Bose-Einstein allocation of the Ni people to the Mi cities in region i, independently for the various regions, then a plot of L (r) against r will be approximately proportional to r –(1+α), for 1 + α = γ–1.
Darwin's causal pluralism

Historians of Biology have divided nineteenth century naturalists into two basic camps, Functionalists and Structuralists. This division is supposed to demarcate the alternative causal presuppositions working beneath research programs. If one is functionally oriented, then organic form will be contingent upon the causal powers of the environment. If structurally oriented, one argues for nonfunctional mechanisms (e.g., internal laws of growth) to account for organic form.
The Effects of Level of Knowledge upon Human Problem Solving in a Process Control Task

The question of what the operator of a dynamic system needs to know was investigated in an experiment using PLANT, a generic simulation of a process. Knowledge of PLANT was manipulated via different types of instructions, so that four different groups were created: 1) Minimal instructions only; 2) Minimal instructions + guidelines for operation (Procedures); 3) Minimal instructions + dynamic relationships (Principles); 4) Minimal instructions + Procedures + Principles. Subjects then controlled PLANT in a variety of familiar and unfamiliar situations. Despite the fact that these manipulations resulted in differences in subjects' knowledge as assessed via a written test at the end of the experiment, instructions had no effect upon achievement of the primary goal of production; however, those groups receiving Procedures controlled the system in a more stable manner. Principles had no apparent effect upon subjects' performance. There was no difference between groups in diagnosis of unfamiliar events. Language: en
Identification of NF-κB in the marine fish Stenotomus chrysops and examination of its activation by aryl hydrocarbon receptor agonists

Abstract Members of the Rel family of proteins have been identified in Drosophila, an echinoderm, Xenopus, birds and mammals. Dimers of Rel proteins form the transcription factor nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) that rapidly activates genes encoding cytokines, cell surface receptors, cell adhesion molecules and acute phase proteins. Evidence suggests that xenobiotic compounds also may alter the activation of NF-κB. This study had a dual objective of identifying members of the Rel family and examining their activation by xenobiotic compounds in a marine fish model, scup (Stenotomus chrysops). A DNA-protein crosslinking technique demonstrated that liver, kidney and heart each had at least three nuclear proteins that showed specific binding to an NF-κB consensus sequence, with molecular weights suggesting that the proteins potentially corresponded to mouse p50, p65 (RelA) and c-rel. In addition, an ≈35kD NF-κB binding protein was evident in liver and kidney. The 50 kD protein was immunoprecipitated by mammalian p50-specific antibodies. The presence of Rel members in fish implied by those results was confirmed by RT-PCR cloning of a Rel homology domain (an apparent c-rel) from scup liver. NF-κB activation occurred in vehicle-treated fish, but this appeared to decrease over time. In fish treated with 0.01 or 1 mg 3,3′,4,4′,5-pentachlorobiphenyl per kg, NF-κB activation in liver did not decrease, and there was a 6–8-fold increase in activation 16–18 days following treatment. Treatment with 10 mg benzo[a]pyrene/kg had no effect on NF-κB-DNA binding, either at 3 or 6 days following treatment. The data show that the Rel family of proteins is present in fish, represented at least by a p50/105 homologue, and support a hypothesis that some aryl hydrocarbon receptor agonists can activate NF-κB in vivo.
Relative MTTF-Based Incentive Scheme for Availability-Based Replication in P2P Systems

When P2P systems are used for data sensitive systems, the data availability has become an important issue. The availability-based replication using individual node availability is the most popular method keeping high data availability efficiently. However, since the individual node availability is derived by the individual lifetime information of each node, the availability-based replication may select useless replicas. In this paper, we explore the relative MTTF (Mean Time To Failure)-based incentive scheme for the more efficient availability-based replication. The relative MTTF is used to classify the guaranteed replicas which can get the incentive node availability, and these replicas help reduce the data traffic and the number of replicas without losing the target data availability. Results from trace-driven simulations show that the replication using our relative MTTF-based incentive scheme achieves the same target data availability with 41% less data traffic and 24% less replicas.
The quantitative genetics of sex allocation in the andromonoecious perennial, Solanum carolinense (L.)

The quantitative genetics of allocation to sexual functions was examined in the andromonoecious plant, Solanum carolinense. A restricted maximum likelihood (REML) analysis was employed to determine heritabilities and genetic and environmental correlations for flower number, the proportion of those flowers that were male, and the size of flower parts (corolla diameter, pistil length, and anther length and width) in each of three populations used in a diallel crossing design. All floral characters were highly heritable. The sizes of flower parts were positively genetically correlated with one another, which will restrict the independent evolution of these parts. Negative genetic and environmental correlations exist between flower size and proportion male flowers, indicating the potential for the evolution of individuals with either many, small male flowers or few, large, cosexual flowers. The high heritabilities of the traits examined as well as the genetic correlations among them indicate the potential for the evolution of gender specialization in this species, because flower size and number have the potential to affect sex-specific reproductive success.
Inhibition of monocyte adhesion on brain-derived endothelial cells by NF-kappaB decoy/polyethylenimine complexes.

Background The nuclear factor (NF)-κB plays a key role in inflammatory reactions of the endothelium by controlling the expression of surface-adhesion molecules and other inflammatory mediators, which facilitate the attachment of monocytes and lymphocytes to the endothelial surface. We investigated the inhibition of monocyte adhesion by NF-κB transcription factor decoys complexed with polyethylenimines (PEIs) of different molecular weights and structures (800, 25, and 2.7 kDa PEI). Methods Formation, size and stability of the PEI/decoy complexes were investigated by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and photon correlation spectroscopy. The efficiency of the complexes was studied in a cell adhesion assay using the murine brain-derived endothelial cell line bEnd5, activated with lipopolysaccharide as inflammatory model. U-937 monocytes were fluorescently labeled with BCECF-AM to permit quantitative measurement of adhesion. Expression of endothelial cell adhesion molecules was determined at the mRNA level by RT-PCR and at the protein level by ELISA. Results Depending on the N/P ratio, decoys formed complexes of <200 nm in size with all PEIs, which were stable against degradation by nucleases and dissociation by albumin. Treatment of bEnd5 and U-937 cells with NF-κB decoys complexed with 25 and 2.7 kDa PEI reduced the number of adherent U-937 cells and decreased the levels of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 mRNA and protein. The effects were specific, time-dependent and increased with higher N/P ratios of complexes and lower cytotoxicity of polymers. In contrast, the efficiency of the 800 kDa PEI was much lower compared to the other polymers. Conclusions Complexes of NF-κB decoy and PEIs effectively inhibited the adherence of monocytes on endothelial cells, which could be a promising strategy for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Developmental and tissue specific control of the heat shock induced 70 kDa related proteins in the flesh fly, Sarcophaga crassipalpis

Abstract Heat shock (40–43°C) induces two proteins in Sarcophaga crassipalpis that are immunologically related to the heat shock 70 protein family in Drosophila. These Sarcophaga heat shock proteins, Mr of 65 and 72 kDa, show developmental and tissue-specific expression. Heat shock protein 65 is expressed in the brain and integument of third-instar larvae at 43°C. Expression of heat shock protein 65 in both tissues ceases at pupariation and heat shock protein 72 is the protein induced at 43°C throughout the rest of development. Tissue specificity for the expression of these two heat shock proteins can be observed in 3-day-old adult males: brain and integument express heat shock protein 72 while the terminalia and flight muscle express heat shock protein 65. Both a developmental and temperature switch can be seen in the male terminalia: day-1 terminalia express heat shock protein 72 at either 40 or 43°C, on day-2 heat shock protein 72 is expressed at 40°C but heat shock protein 65 is expressed at 43°C, thereafter the terminalia express primarily heat shock protein 65 at either heat shock temperature. Control of heat shock protein expression in S. crassipalpis is thus considerably more complex than the Drosophila literature suggests.
Acute coccidioidomycosis with erythema nodosum in children

Summary An acute febrile illness has been described, caused by the fungus Coccidioides immitis , characterized by initial systemic symptoms commonly followed by erythema nodosum, and accompanied by a marked specific sensitivity to the products of the fungus. It is common among children. The prognosis, in contrast to that of coccidiodal granuloma which is caused by the same organism, is favorable. While the endemic focus is in the west, migration of persons in theincubation period could permit the disease to break out sporadically in other localities.
ZINC AND COPPER BALANCE STUDIES IN INFANTS RECEIVING TOTAL PARENTERAL NUTRITION (TPN)

The adequacy of the recommended parenteral intakes of Zn and Cu was studied in 12 infants (X±SE: 3.3±1.4 mo, range 0.25-17 mo) who were NPO and who received TPN supplemented with Zn and Cu (100 μg/kg/d and 10 μg/kg/d, respectively) as recommended by AMA guidelines. Zn and Cu serum measurements and 24 hr balances were obtained at baseline, 1, and 2 wk. Results of the Zn and Cu determinations are shown. Normal serum Zn: 52-163 μg/dl; normal serum Cu: 65-145 μg/dl) Serum levels were low at baseline, 1 and 2 wk for Zn in 4/12, 3/12, and 0/6 infants and for Cu in 5/12, 3/12, and 1/6 infants, respectively. Balances were negative at baseline, 1 and 2 wk for Zn in 6/12, 2/12, and 1/6 infants and for Cu in 5/12, 1/12, and 0/6 infants, respectively. Only infants with intestinal drainage (i.e., nasogastric, ileostomy) were in negative balance at 1 and 2 wk. Conclusions: 1) These preliminary data suggest that the recommended parenteral Zn and Cu intakes are adequate for most infants. 2) Infants with intestinal drainage may require supplemental Zn and Cu. 3) Changes in Zn balances were not reflected in serum Zn levels.
The icon as a problem in cognition and social construction: complexity and consensual domains in technical rhetoric

Suggests that current theories about how even the simplest elements of graphical design function in professional communication do not adequately convey the complexity of the element's actual role in communication. By showing how producers of computer interfaces rely on the possibility of multiple interpretive trajectories in the use of any sign and how users of such signs respond in ways that are far from being totally predictable, we argue that it is best to think of the communication act not as a simple exchange of information between two minds (producer and user) but rather as a field of possibilities that requires flexibility and an experimental attitude from both the producer and the user. Examining theoretical developments in the history of physics and cognitive science, we contend that the dominant paradigms of understanding communication-the old cognitive (or computational) model and the social constructionist model as currently employed in the fields of composition and technical communication-fall short of accounting for even fairly straightforward exchanges of information. In place of the communication triangle that both of the old models rely upon, we offer a new model that uses the concept of "consensual domains" as the basis for a general theory of rhetoric. As a starting point for our investigation, we present the history of a still evolving sign-the trash-can icon in the user interface of the Macintosh operating system-from the perspective of a single (also still evolving) human user.
Characterization and permeation properties of ZSM‐5 tubular membranes

ZSM-5 zeolite membranes with reproducible properties were prepared by in-situ synthesis on porous {alpha}- and {gamma}-alumina tubular supports and characterized by XRD, SEM and electron microprobe analysis. Single-gas permeances for H{sub 2}, CH{sub 4}, N{sub 2}, CO{sup 2}, n-butane, and i-butane increase over some temperature range, but some gases exhibit maxima or minima. The highest ideal selectivities at room temperature are 299 for N{sub 2}/SF{sub 6}, 392 for H{sup 2}/n-butane, and 2,820 for H{sub 2}/i-butane. These membranes can separate n-butane/i-butane, H{sub 2}/n-butane and H{sub 2}/i-butane mixtures. All n-butane/i-butane separation selectivities have maxima as a function of temperature and are higher than ideal selectivities because n-butane inhibits i-butane permeation. Thus, separation is not by size selectivity, but is due to pore blocking. Temperature dependencies of single-gas permeances and separation selectivities depend strongly on the location of zeolite crystals and the location is determined by preparation procedure. Ideal selectivities also depend strongly on the preparation procedure. When the zeolite forms a continuous layer on the inside surface of the support tubes, pure i-butane permeates faster than pure n-butane so that the single-gas permeances are not determined just by molecular size. The i-butane permeance also increases much more with temperature than the n-butanemore » permeance. The permeation behavior may be the result of permeation through nonzeolitic pores in parallel with zeolite pores. When zeolite crystals are dispersed throughout the pores of {alpha}-alumina supports, permeances are lower and gas permeation and separation properties are quite different. Ideal selectivities are lower, pure n-butane permeates faster than i-butane, and the permeances increase much less with temperature. Separation selectivities are lower but can be maintained to higher temperatures.« less
Green tea catechin intervention of reactive oxygen species-mediated ERK pathway activation and chronically induced breast cell carcinogenesis

Long-term exposure to low doses of environmental carcinogens contributes to sporadic human breast cancers. Epidemiologic and experimental studies indicate that green tea catechins (GTCs) may intervene with breast cancer development. We have been developing a chronically induced breast cell carcinogenesis model wherein we repeatedly expose non-cancerous, human breast epithelial MCF10A cells to bioachievable picomolar concentrations of environmental carcinogens, such as 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK) and benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P), to progressively induce cellular acquisition of cancer-associated properties, as measurable end points. The model is then used as a target to identify non-cytotoxic preventive agents effective in suppression of cellular carcinogenesis. Here, we demonstrate, for the first time, a two-step strategy that initially used end points that were transiently induced by short-term exposure to NNK and B[a]P as targets to detect GTCs capable of blocking the acquisition of cancer-associated properties and subsequently used end points constantly induced by long-term exposure to carcinogens as targets to verify GTCs capable of suppressing carcinogenesis. We detected that short-term exposure to NNK and B[a]P resulted in elevation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to Raf-independent extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway activation and subsequent induction of cell proliferation and DNA damage. These GTCs, at non-cytotoxic levels, were able to suppress chronically induced cellular carcinogenesis by blocking carcinogen-induced ROS elevation, ERK activation, cell proliferation and DNA damage in each exposure cycle. Our model may help accelerate the identification of preventive agents to intervene in carcinogenesis induced by long-term exposure to environmental carcinogens, thereby safely and effectively reducing the health risk of sporadic breast cancer.