cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Tax Credits for Debt Reduction

The incentives for domestic investment in debtor countries are influenced by the terms of their external obligations and by the system of taxation utilized to provide government revenue for debt payments. It is well known that existing debt contracts could be altered to improve the incentives for investment but this has proven difficult to accomplish, perhaps because individual creditors have incentives not to agree to such changes. In this paper we show that a simple tax credit scheme that can be implemented unilaterally by the debtor government can overcome at least some of the inefficiencies caused by existing debt contracts.
Anti-Luck Virtue Epistemology and Divine Revelation

Anti-Luck Virtue Epistemology (ALVE) states that for S to have knowledge, S must have a virtuously formed safe true belief. S’s belief that p is safe if, in most near-by possible worlds where S’s belief is formed in the same manner as in the actual world, S’s belief is true. S’s safe belief that p is virtuously formed if S’s safe belief is formed using reliable and well-integrated cognitive processes and it is to S’s credit that she formed the belief. In this paper, I offer a novel counterexample to ALVE. I offer a case where an individual forms a belief on the basis of divine revelation. Intuitively the person has knowledge, but ALVE predicts otherwise. The upshot is not only that we have a counter example to ALVE, but also, that ALVE may not serve the needs of an adequate religious epistemology.
Relating permeability to the structural setting of a fault‐controlled hydrothermal system in southeast Oregon, USA

[1] It is generally accepted that high-permeability pathways are required to bring hydrothermal fluids to the surface from depth at elevated temperatures, and these pathways are commonly associated with faulting. The orientation and mode of fractures that develop as a result of fault slip are dependent on the state of stress and the geometry of the fault system, which in turn control the near-fault permeability structure. We hypothesize that temperature data collected in fault-controlled hydrothermal systems may be used to delineate the extent of the near-surface breakdown region of the controlling fault, and may provide insight regarding the fault geometry and stress field. Here we present a geostatistical analysis of 1550 ground and spring temperature measurements in an area of active hydrothermal discharge located at Mickey Hot Springs in southeast Oregon. Indicator kriging was used to treat heterogeneity across the site prior to in-category simulation of temperature as a continuous variable. The analysis indicates that zones of high, medium, and low temperature at the site arise from different physical mechanisms, which we propose are related to the underlying modes of fracturing and the dominant mechanisms of heat and mass transport (i.e., by advection or diffusion). The findings of this study suggest that thermal-hydrologic data of the type presented here may be useful for understanding fault zone characteristics, and for developing conceptual models of fault-controlled fluid flow.
Finding subtypes of transcription factor motif pairs with distinct regulatory roles

DNA sequences bound by a transcription factor (TF) are presumed to contain sequence elements that reflect its DNA binding preferences and its downstream-regulatory effects. Experimentally identified TF binding sites (TFBSs) are usually similar enough to be summarized by a 'consensus' motif, representative of the TF DNA binding specificity. Studies have shown that groups of nucleotide TFBS variants (subtypes) can contribute to distinct modes of downstream regulation by the TF via differential recruitment of cofactors. A TF(A) may bind to TFBS subtypes a(1) or a(2) depending on whether it associates with cofactors TF(B) or TF(C), respectively. While some approaches can discover motif pairs (dyads), none address the problem of identifying 'variants' of dyads. TFs are key components of multiple regulatory pathways targeting different sets of genes perhaps with different binding preferences. Identifying the discriminating TF-DNA associations that lead to the differential downstream regulation is thus essential. We present DiSCo (Discovery of Subtypes and Cofactors), a novel approach for identifying variants of dyad motifs (and their respective target sequence sets) that are instrumental for differential downstream regulation. Using both simulated and experimental datasets, we demonstrate how current motif discovery can be successfully leveraged to address this question.
Xenopus axin-related protein: A link between its centrosomal localization and function in the Wnt/β-catenin pathway

The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway regulates cell proliferation and cell fate determination in multiple systems. However, the subcellular localization of Wnt pathway components and the significance of this localization for the pathway regulation have not been extensively analyzed. Here we report that Xenopus Axin-related protein (XARP), a component of the β-catenin destruction complex, is localized to the centrosome. This localization of XARP requires the presence of the DIX domain and an adjacent region. Since other components of the Wnt pathway have also been shown to associate with the centrosome, we tested a hypothesis that the β-catenin destruction complex operates at the centrosome. However, XARP mutants with poor centrosomal localization revealed an enhanced rather than decreased ability to antagonize the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Our data are consistent with the idea that the inactivation of XARP at the centrosome is an important regulatory point in Wnt signaling. Developmental Dynamics 239:261–270, 2010. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Erythrocyte sodium-potassium-stimulated adenosine triphosphatase activity is not related to obesity.

Abstract Altered erthrocyte sodium potassium (Na,K)-stimulated adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) activity has been cited as having pathophysiologic significance in morbidly obese man. Previous studies have failed to consider obese patients after weight loss and, therefore, did not clarify the role of ATPase deficiency as a cause or effect of the obese state. To define more completely the possible alteration of cellular thermogenesis in obesity, a study was made of three groups of people: (1) normal weight controls; (2) morbidly obese; and (3) formerly morbidly obese patients who had lost over 100 pounds after gastric bypass surgery. Erythrocyte ATPase activity was determined by use of an assay that coupled ATPase activity with NADH oxidation in the presence of excess pyruvate kinase, lactic dehydrogenase, and phosphoenolpyruvate. This coupled assay produced a continuous slope so that activity could be calculated from the initial, maximal, linear portion of the decay trace. Results did not demonstrate any statistically significant differences in Na,K-ATPase activity between groups by analysis of variance. A nonsignificant correlation of 0.086 was seen between obesity index and Na,K-ATPase activity. It is concluded that (1) erythrocyte Na, K-ATPase activity is similar in both normal and obese individuals, (2) erythrocyte Na,K-ATPase does not change with weight loss, and (3) therefore, disordered erythrocyte thermogenesis does not have a role in the development or maintenance of obesity.
Improving supply chain robustness and preventing counterfeiting through authenticated product labels

Counterfeiting is a serious problem impacting customers and producers in the global economy. We design authenticated product labels (APL), a cryptography based practical counterfeit detection method. Our solution can be used by customers, distributors, and law enforcement alike. APLs not only detects counterfeit goods, but also deters counterfeiting by provably pinpointing its source in the supply chain. Counterfeiting is a serious problem impacting customers and producers in the global economy. We design authenticated product labels (APL), a cryptography based practical counterfeit detection method. Our solution can be used by customers, distributors, and law enforcement alike. APLs not only detects counterfeit goods, but also deters counterfeiting by provably pinpointing its source in the supply chain.
The Location of Export-Oriented Foreign Direct Investment in the Caribbean Basin

This paper analyzes the location of export-oriented manufacturing investment. The analysis focuses on direct investment in the Caribbean Basin, using micro data for all reported manufacturing plant openings from 1984–87. We test a broad range of influences on country selection and compare the results with the existing literature on foreign direct investment in less-developed countries. The probability of country selection was estimated with a conditional logit model. The estimates were then used to predict the location of Caribbean Basin investments made in 1988 and 1989. Twelve independent variables were tested. Six variables had a statistically significant, positive relationship with plant location: per capita GNP, exchange rate devaluation, the length of income tax holidays, the size of free trade zones, political stability, and manufacturing concentration. Negative relationships were found for the wage rate, inflation rate, transportation cost, and profit repatriation restrictions.
Delamination modelling in a double cantilever beam

The simulation of the delamination process in composite structures is quite complex, and requires advanced FE modelling techniques. Failure analysis tools must be able to predict initiation, size and propagation of delamination process. The objective of the paper is to present modelling techniques able to predict a delamination in composite structures. Four different ways of modelling delamination growth of a double cantilever beam test (DCB) are proposed. The first two approaches were based on a cohesive zone model: the interface being represented either by using delamination elements or non-linear springs. The idea of the third approach was to use a fracture mechanics criterion, but to avoid the complex moving mesh techniques it often implies. The interface between the two layers was simulated with solid elements representing the matrix, which were eliminated when their energy release rate exceeded the critical value. The energy release rate was computed using the virtual crack closure technique (VCCT). In the last approach, the interface behaviour was modelled by a tiebreak contact. Coincident nodes were tied together with a constraint relation and remained joined, until when the maximum interlaminar stresses was reached. Once this value was exceeded, the nodes associated with that constraint were released to simulate the initiation of delamination. The comparison of the results of the first three modelling techniques with experimental data showed that very good correlation was achieved. Poor results were obtained using tiebreak contact. It was due to the criterion used, since when the critical interlaminar stress was reached, the delamination was experienced before the critical energy release rate was reached.
Professional Development in Inquiry-Based Science for Elementary Teachers of Diverse Student Groups.

As part of a larger project aimed at promoting science and literacy for culturally and linguistically diverse elementary students, this study has two objectives: (a) to describe teachers' initial beliefs and practices about inquiry-based science and (b) to examine the impact of the professional development intervention (primarily through instructional units and teacher workshops) on teachers' beliefs and practices related to inquiry-based science. The research involved 53 third- and fourth-grade teachers at six elementary schools in a large urban school district. At the end of the school year, teachers reported enhanced knowledge of science content and stronger beliefs about the importance of science instruction with diverse student groups, although their actual practices did not change significantly. Based on the results of this first year of implementation as part of a 3-year longitudinal design, implications for pro- fessional development and further research are discussed. 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 41: 1021-1043, 2004 As the school-age population in the nation becomes progressively more diverse, it is vital to develop a knowledge base that promotes academic achievement and equity for all students. This need is particularly critical in science education, as science achievement scores of U.S. students lag behind those of students in other developed nations (U.S. National Research Center for TIMSS, 1996). Furthermore, the science-achievement gaps between mainstream and nonmain- stream students in this nation have persisted over several decades (Campbell, Hombo, & Mazzeo, 2000). Thus, closing the gaps among racial/ethnic groups while improving science achievement of all students constitute the dual goals of science education.
Split spectrum processing: optimizing the processing parameters using minimization

Abstract A major limitation to ultrasonic NDE is the noise produced by interfering scatterers such as grain boundaries, etc. effectively masking the flaw. The effect is more severe in some types of material, thereby making it necessary to use some forms of signal processing techniques to improve the signal-to-noise ratio. Split spectrum processing is one such technique introduced about half a decade ago. However, even though the technique has proved useful in signal-to-noise ratio enhancement, its application appears to have been limited perhaps because of the prevailing ambiguity in optimizing the processing parameters. This Paper provides experimental confirmation of a recently postulated procedure for optimizing the choice of processing parameters in split spectrum processing and demonstrates its application to signal-to-noise ratio enhancement in welds, centrifugally cast stainless steel and carbon-epoxy composites.
A motion tracking system for hand activity assessment

A video-based hand-motion detection and tracking system is developed for the purpose of automated hand activity level assessment in a factory workplace. While the basic approach follows the sequential Bayesian estimation principle, a unique verification step is proposed to validate the quality of estimates. An experimental simulated workplace assembly line workstation is developed. The proposed system shows satisfactory performance and robustness due to the novel verification step.
Motion-games in brain injury rehabilitation: an in-situ multi-method study of inpatient care

In this project, we explored how commercial motion-based video games were used in a rehabilitation hospital with patients who have had a brain injury (BI). We interviewed therapists and observed game sessions. Major findings included: (a) the social aspects of gaming were highly valued; (b) therapists had varied physical, cognitive and social goals when using games; and (c) therapists made game decisions primarily based on familiarity versus choosing games that best match therapeutic goals and patient profiles. Our exploration exposed a need for decision tools to help therapists make evidence-based decisions about commercial games; i.e. to help them choose games that match session goals and patient profiles. We have expanded our research to include diary studies in order to gather data for 'seed cases' for decision tools that use case-based reasoning.
Separation of Peptides and Oligonucleotides Using a Monolithic Polymer Layer and Pressurized Planar Electrophoresis and Electrochromatography

The rapid separation of mixtures of six peptides using porous polymer monolithic layers in electrophoresis and pressurized planar electrochromatography modes has been achieved. The separations in the former mode were performed on a generic hydrophobic poly(butyl methacrylate-co-ethylene dimethacrylate) layer with no ionizable functionalities and required 2 min. This layer also enabled the separation of three oligonucleotides. The separation in the pressurized planar electrochromatographic mode was carried out using a negatively charged layer prepared via cografting of 2-acrylamido-2-methyl-1-propanesulfonic acid and 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate on top of the generic hydrophobic monolith and was completed in 1 min.
Identification of NOM1, a nucleolar, eIF4A binding protein encoded within the chromosome 7q36 breakpoint region targeted in cases of pediatric acute myeloid leukemia

Abstract Proteins that contain the recently described MIF4G and/or MA3 domains function in translation, cell growth, proliferation, transformation, and apoptosis. Examples of MIF4G/MA3 containing proteins and their functions include eIF4G, which serves as a scaffold for assembly of factors required for translation initiation, programmed cell death protein 4 (Pdcd4) that inhibits translation and functions as a tumor suppressor, and NMD2, which is essential for nonsense-mediated mRNA decay. MIF4G and MA3 domains serve as binding sites for one or more isoforms of the eIF4A family of ATP-dependent DEAD-box RNA helicases that are required for translation and for nonsense-mediated decay. In this report, we describe the characterization of a novel MIF4G/MA3 family member called NOM1 (nucleolar protein with MIF4G domain 1) that was identified at the chromosome 7q36 breakpoint involved in 7;12 translocations associated with certain acute leukemias of childhood. NOM1, which includes a previously described EST called c7orf3, encodes a ubiquitously expressed transcript composed of 11 exons and an approximately 3 kb 3′ UTR that contains several Alu repeats. The predicted NOM1 protein contains one MIF4G domain and one MA3 domain and, consistent with data obtained with other MIF4G/MA3 proteins, interacts with members of the eIF4A family of helicases. Database searches reveal that NOM1 homologs exist in several organisms and that at least two of these are essential genes. Finally, like its Saccharomyces cerevisiae homolog Sgd1p, NOM1 localizes predominantly to the nucleolus. These data demonstrate that NOM1 is a new member of the MIF4G/MA3 family of proteins and suggest that it may provide an essential function in metazoans.
A Mini Challenge: Build a Verifiable Filesystem

We propose tackling a “mini challenge” problem: a nontrivial verification effort that can be completed in 2–3 years, and will help establish notational standards, common formats, and libraries of benchmarks that will be essential in order for the verification community to collaborate on meeting Hoare’s 15-year verification grand challenge. We believe that a suitable candidate for such a mini challenge is the development of a filesystem that is verifiably reliable and secure. The paper argues why we believe a filesystem is the right candidate for a mini challenge and describes a project in which we are building a small embedded filesystem for use with flash memory.
A pump-operated urine collector for infants

T H E illustrated device has been unusually successful for collecting adequate 24 hour urine specimens from infants. I t grew from the observation that when gravity is used to convey urine to a reservoir bottle in conventional collection apparatus, failures occur because the collecting bag often tends to overfill or spill during voiding. With this contraption, a noncollapsible cup catches urine and a "sump-pump" is arranged to empty the cup as fast as urine collects. The essential units are shown in Fig. 1 and are readily fashioned from common materials.
Neurophysiological study of subacute combined degeneration

Three patients with subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord due to vitamin B12 deficiency showed a characteristic pattern of abnormalities on neurophysiological tests which corresponded to the clinical signs and symptoms. Peripheral nerve conduction studies showed an axonal degeneration peripheral neuropathy. Brain stem auditory evoked responses were normal; visual evoked responses were mildly abnormal and somatosensory evoked responses were moderately abnormal. These studies shed light on the pathology of this disorder and can aid in its diagnosis.
Subcellular RNA sequencing reveals broad presence of cytoplasmic intron-sequence retaining transcripts in mouse and rat neurons

Recent findings have revealed the complexity of the transcriptional landscape in mammalian cells. One recently described class of novel transcripts are the Cytoplasmic Intron-sequence Retaining Transcripts (CIRTs), hypothesized to confer post-transcriptional regulatory function. For instance, the neuronal CIRT KCNMA1i16 contributes to the firing properties of hippocampal neurons. Intronic sub-sequence retention within IL1-β mRNA in anucleate platelets has been implicated in activity-dependent splicing and translation. In a recent study, we showed CIRTs harbor functional SINE ID elements which are hypothesized to mediate dendritic localization in neurons. Based on these studies and others, we hypothesized that CIRTs may be present in a broad set of transcripts and comprise novel signals for post-transcriptional regulation. We carried out a transcriptome-wide survey of CIRTs by sequencing micro-dissected subcellular RNA fractions. We sequenced two batches of 150-300 individually dissected dendrites from primary cultures of hippocampal neurons in rat and three batches from mouse hippocampal neurons. After statistical processing to minimize artifacts, we found a broad prevalence of CIRTs in the neurons in both species (44-60% of the expressed transcripts). The sequence patterns, including stereotypical length, biased inclusion of specific introns, and intron-intron junctions, suggested CIRT-specific nuclear processing. Our analysis also suggested that these cytoplasmic intron-sequence retaining transcripts may serve as a primary transcript for ncRNAs. Our results show that retaining intronic sequences is not isolated to a few loci but may be a genome-wide phenomenon for embedding functional signals within certain mRNA. The results hypothesize a novel source of cis-sequences for post-transcriptional regulation. Our results hypothesize two potentially novel splicing pathways: one, within the nucleus for CIRT biogenesis; and another, within the cytoplasm for removing CIRT sequences before translation. We also speculate that release of CIRT sequences prior to translation may form RNA-based signals within the cell potentially comprising a novel class of signaling pathways.
Directed positioning of nuclei in living Paramecium tetraurelia: Use of the laser optical force trap for developmental biology

We have constructed a laser optical force trap (“laser tweezers”) by coupling an Nd:YAG laser to an optical microscope with a high numerical aperture objective. The laser beam (approximately 0.1 W power) is focused to a diffraction-limited spot at the specimen plane of the objective: the wavelength chosen (1,064 nm) is not strongly absorbed by most biological materials and is thus not ablative. Because the intensity of the laser beam increases towards the center of the focal spot, small particles brought near the spot will be attracted to the center and held there. Movement of the laser beam will tend to move any trapped particles with it. The laser tweezers can permit precise, nondestructive repositioning of small structures inside a living cell, without recourse to micromanipulators. Initial work has involved the use of laser tweezers on cells of Paramecium tet-raurelia held by a rotocompressor. We have been able to trap and reposition small organelles, especially the highly refractile structures known as crystals. Using a trapped crystal as a “tool”, we have been able to push micronuclei and other structures for many micrometers to virtually any desired location in a cell. In spite of extended exposure of specific structures and of individual cells to the laser beam, no damage has been detectible. Exposed cells, which were removed from the rotocompres-sor and cultured, showed complete viabilty. The laser tweezers technique shows tremendous potential for applications to the study of many fundamental cellular and developmental phenomena in paramecia and other ciliates. For example, we intend to use this technique to investigate temporal and spatial characteristics of nuclear determining regions during sexual reorganization in Paramecium. © 1992 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Coherent plasmons in InSb

We study coherent plasmons in the narrow-gap semiconductor InSb by measuring the far-infrared electromagnetic radiation they emit. These collective oscillations are excited with ultrashort, near-infrared laser pulses having photon energy far above the semiconductor band gap. Coherent plasmon behavior is characterized as a function of temperature, doping density, optically injected carrier density, and spatial confinement.
Thrust reversing effects on horizontal tail effectiveness of twin-engine fighter aircraft

The Langley Research Center has conducted an experimental program to determine the interference effects of thrust reversing on horizontal tail effectiveness of a twin engine, general research fighter model at approach (Mach number 0.15) and in-flight (Mach number 0.60 and 0.90) speeds. Twin vertical tails were tested at three longitudinal locations. Two nonaxisymmetric nozzle reverser concepts were studied. The effects of thrust reversing on horizontal tail effectiveness were found to be very dependent upon vertical tail locations. At approach speeds thrust reverser operation usually resulted in large variations in horizontal tail effectiveness as either nozzle pressure ratio or model angle of attack was varied. Either increases or decreases in tail effectiveness ocurred due to reverse operation depending upon tail location. At in-flight conditions there were always decreases in tail effectiveness due to reverser operation regardless of vertical tail location.
Deep ultraviolet (254 nm) focal plane array

We report the synthesis, fabrication and testing of a 320 × 256 focal plane array (FPA) of back-illuminated, solarblind, p-i-n, AlxGa1-xN-based detectors, fully realized within our research laboratory. We implemented a novel pulsed atomic layer deposition technique for the metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) growth of crackfree, thick, and high Al composition AlxGa1-xN layers. Following the growth, the wafer was processed into a 320 × 256 array of 25 μm × 25 μm pixels on a 30 μm pixel-pitch and surrounding mini-arrays. A diagnostic mini-array was hybridized to a silicon fan-out chip to allow the study of electrical and optical characteristics of discrete pixels of the FPA. At a reverse bias of 1 V, an average photodetector exhibited a low dark current density of 1.12×10-8 A/cm2. Solar-blind operation is observed throughout the array with peak detection occurring at wavelengths of 256 nm and lower and falling off three orders of magnitude by 285 nm. After indium bump deposition and dicing, the FPA is hybridized to a matching ISC 9809 readout integrated circuit (ROIC). By developing a novel masking technology, we significantly reduced the visible response of the ROIC and thus the need for external filtering to achieve solar- and visible-blind operation is eliminated. This allowed the FPA to achieve high external quantum efficiency (EQE): at 254 nm, average pixels showed unbiased peak responsivity of 75 mA/W, which corresponds to an EQE of ~37%. Finally, the uniformity of the FPA and imaging properties are investigated.
Investigating the relationship between superior‐subordinate relationship quality and employee dissent

The purpose of this study was to examine how subordinates’ perceptions of superior‐subordinate relationship quality (LMX) related to their strategies for expressing dissent. Employees from various organizations completed self‐report survey instruments. Results indicated that subordinates who perceived having high‐quality relationships with their supervisors reported using significantly more articulated dissent than subordinates who perceived having low‐quality relationships with their supervisors. Conversely, subordinates who perceived having low‐quality relationships with their supervisors reported using significantly more latent dissent than subordinates who perceived having high‐quality relationships with their supervisors.
The efficacy of the laryngeal reflex in conscious sedation

The Jorgensen technique and nitrous oxide-oxygen sedation were evaluated for the risk of aspiration. Participants were studied in the supine, semisupine, and Trendelenburg positions. Use of a narcotic in an intravenous sedative technique increases the hazard of aspiration. In a study of the risk of aspiration in nitrous oxide-oxygen sedation and the Jorgensen technique, aspiration occurred in one patient under the latter. It could be attributed to the presence of a narcotic in the mixture. No depression of the laryngeal reflex occurred in participants in the supine and semisupine positions who were given nitrous oxide-oxygen analgesia.
Production of 3He in terrestrial rocks

I consider possible nuclear sources for in situ production of 3He in rocks. The in situ cosmogenic production of 3He and 3H (which decays to 3He with a half-life of 12.34 a) occurs due to both “cosmogenic” and “radiogenic” nuclear reactions as has been discussed in the literature. The subject is in a state of flux because of new experimental data on the distribution of 3He in terrestrial samples. In situ cosmogenic production of 3He(3H) in rocks has been documented recently. Evidence for the presence of in situ cosmogenic 3He in an alluvial diamond sample has also been found. Some diamonds have been found to contain 3He at concentration levels of ∼ 50· 10−2 cm3/g diamond, and 3He4He ratios of (70–300) ·10−6. I discuss the propagation of cosmic-ray secondaries in the atmosphere and in rocks, and present estimates for the rates of nuclear disintegrations due to neutrons, fast μ-mesons and capture of negative muons up to equivalent depths underground of 104 g cm−2 (0- ∼ 30 m rock). For the same rock depths, I also present estimates for the production rates of sub-MeV radiogenic neutrons from granite, clays and shales and basalt. Cosmogenic spallation and thermal neutron cosmogenic and radiogenic production rates of 3He can be obtained from the production rates given.
Synthesis of 2- and 5-diphospho-myo-inositol pentakisphosphate (2- and 5-PP-InsP5), intracellular mediators

Abstract The title pyrophosphates were prepared in good overall yield from a readily available bis-disiloxanylidene derivative of myo -inositol.
Power and Effect Size in Supply Chain Research

Over the past three decades supply chain management (SCM) has evolved from its origins as a nascent field of study, through construct definition, identification of the field’s central issues, and e...
Charge and length of hospital stay analysis of radical retropubic prostatectomy and transperineal prostate brachytherapy

AbstractPurpose: For the treatment of clinically localized prostate cancer radical retropubic prostatectomy with its attendant hospital stay should be associated with higher charges than transperineal prostate brachytherapy. We report a comparative case series to determine patient charges and length of hospitalization of 2 modalities of monotherapy for localized prostate cancer.Materials and Methods: A total of 35 consecutive patients with clinically localized prostate cancer underwent radical retropubic prostatectomy (16) or transperineal prostate brachytherapy (19) at the Arthur James Cancer Hospital and Research Institute. Complete charge and length of hospital stay data were collected for each patient. Total charges were calculated and the 2 modalities were compared.Results: Charge data were available in 33 cases. Average total charges in the prostatectomy and brachytherapy groups were $15,097 and $21,025, respectively ($5,928 difference, p <0.0001). The difference increased further when outliers were...
Weeki Wachee, City Of Mermaids: A History Of One Of Florida'S Oldest Roadside Attractions

The scholarly study of how Americans spend their leisure time has accelerated in the past two decades. Some works like Roy Rosenzweig's Eight Hours for What We Will: Workers and Leisure in an Indus...
How green was Cooksonia? The importance of size in understanding the early evolution of physiology in the vascular plant lineage

Because of the fragmentary preservation of the earliest Cooksonia-like terrestrial plant macrofossils, younger Devonian fossils with complete anatomical preservation and documented gametophytes often have received greater attention concerning the early evolution of vascular plants and the alternation of generations. Despite preservational deficits, however, possible physiologies of Cooksonia-like fossils can be constrained by considering the overall axis size in conjunction with the potential range of cell types and sizes, because their lack of organ differentiation requires that all plant functions be performed by the same axis. Once desiccation resistance, support, and transport functions are taken into account, smaller fossils do not have volume enough left over for an extensive aerated photosynthetic tissue, thus arguing for physiological dependence on an unpreserved gametophyte. As in many mosses, axial anatomy is more likely to have ensured continued spore dispersal despite desiccation of the sporophyte than to have provided photosynthetic independence. Suppositions concerning size constraints on physiology are supported by size comparisons with fossils of demonstrable physiological independence, by preserved anatomical detail, and by size correlations between axis, sporangia, and sporangial stalk in Silurian and Early Devonian taxa. Several Cooksonia-like taxa lump fossils with axial widths spanning over an order of magnitude—from necessary physiological dependence to potential photosynthetic competence—informing understanding of the evolution of an independent sporophyte and the phylogenetic relationships of early vascular plants.
Measuring Family Reunion Travel Motivations

Abstract The study developed a Family Reunion Travel Motivation Scale (FRTMS) measuring family reunion travelers’ motivations. Through a rigorous scale development process, the final model of the scale exhibits excellent levels of psychometric properties. Details of each step are described in this paper. The 15-items scale contains four dimensions labeled as: (a) family history and togetherness, (b) immediate family cohesion, (c) family communication, and (d) family adaptability. Furthermore, canonical correlation analysis was conducted to empirically test the associations between travel motivation and family leisure activity choice. The finding suggested that family reunion tourists’ selection of activities correlated with their travel motivations. Both practical and theoretical implications were discussed.
The thyrotropin receptor (TSH-R) is not an oncogene for thyroid tumors: structural studies of the TSH-R and the alpha-subunit of Gs in human thyroid neoplasms

The development and progression of thyroid tumors are associated with phenotype-specific mutations of genes involved in growth control. Thyroid cell growth is controlled in part by the interaction of TSH with its receptor, with subsequent activation of the GTP-binding protein and its effector, adenylyl cyclase. The resulting increase in intracellular cAMP stimulates growth in thyrocytes. The TSH receptor (TSH-R) is a seven-transmembrane domain receptor. Intracellular domains of the TSH-R important for signal transduction and which may serve as targets for mutational activation have been defined. In addition, mutations at specific loci of the alpha-subunit of G-protein in human thyroid tumors have been described. We examined 92 benign and malignant neoplastic thyroid tissues for possible mutations of the intracytoplasmic domains of the TSH-R known to be involved in signal transduction and for mutations within the hot spots of Gs alpha. Screening was carried out by single strand conformation polymorphism (TSH-R) or denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (Gs alpha) of polymerase chain reaction-amplified tumor DNA. No mutations were observed in the cytoplasmic domains of the TSH-R, except for a neutral base substitution in codon 460 (GCG [Ala]-->GCA [Ala]) in 3 tumors, which was also present in constitutional DNA from the affected individuals. A heterozygous mutation of codon 201 of Gs alpha (GGT [Arg]-CAT [His]) was observed in a nodule from an adenomatous goiter. In addition, a codon 227 mutation (CAG [Glu]-CAT [His]) was identified in a follicular adenoma. We conclude that mutational activation of the intracytoplasmatic domains of the TSH-R is not a significant mechanism of thyroid tumorigenesis, whereas putative activating mutations within exons 8 and 9 of Gs alpha occur infrequently in some benign follicular tumors.
Participant stakeholder evaluation as a design process

This paper discusses participant stakeholder evaluation and its use in designing an evaluative protocol for inter-firm development and sharing of web-based learning modules. Participant stakeholder evaluation involves participants as researchers who design and evaluate evaluative protocols. It has a strong link with participatory action research and collaborative inquiry methods where the line is blurred between “the researcher” and “the researched.”Participatory evaluation methods were used as a method in support of system design to help define features of learning modules, define content, and to enhance usability and effectiveness in work contexts. Preliminary results strongly suggest that these techniques are successful in uncovering usability issues during the process of design, were instrumental in helping define an architecture for learning modules, help to increase user acceptance, and inform company strategy
Determination of inlet transmission and conversion efficiencies for in situ measurements of the nocturnal nitrogen oxides, NO3, N2O5 and NO2, via pulsed cavity ring-down spectroscopy.

Pulsed cavity ring-down spectroscopy is a highly sensitive method for direct absorption spectroscopy that has been applied to in situ detection of NO3, N2O5 and NO2 in the atmosphere from a variety...
Feedback controller design for tracking a single fluorescent molecule

In this paper, we revisit the problem of tracking a single fluorescent molecule in a laser-scanning confocal microscope. We utilize optimal control theory to design a feedback controller and use numerical simulation to analyze its ability to track a molecule in two dimensions. A major theme in this paper is the inclusion of all relevant experimental limitations including moderate signal-to-noise fluorescence detection and the finite-bandwidth response of an electromechanical translation stage. The results presented here demonstrate the experimental feasibility of tracking single fluorescent molecules with diffusion coefficients as large as 0.1 μm2/ms. We show that for molecules that are even moderately confined along a third dimension (as, for example, by microscope cover slides), the two-dimensional tracking algorithm appears to be robust and effective. We expect this technology to enable single-molecule experiments with long observation times and high time-resolution.
Motivations and uses: An evaluation of users' use of a chat reference service

This poster presents an evaluation of NCknows, a state-wide chat reference service in North Carolina, to explore users' motivation for using this service and how they use the information provided to them in real life situations, which reflects the value of the service to them. Users were interviewed by email or telephone two weeks after their chat sessions with NCknows. The findings suggest that most users were motivated by tasks or projects with which they were involved or by some aspect of their personal life. Over sixty percent of users reported they used the information provided to them to fulfill the information needs that motivated them to use the service. Non-use or partial use cases were also categorized for a better understanding of how the service aided users.
GI bleeding, colon varicosities, and visceral enlargement as a manifestation of Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome.

w t A white male presented with fatigue, pallor, and black stools for 4 months. Past medical history revealed aricosities of right lower extremity since childhood, urinary ladder hemangioma, and hemorrhoids. Physical examination as mostly benign except for severe pallor and bluish-purple emangiomas along with varicose veins of right lower limb Figure A) and right gluteal region (Figure B). The stool test for ccult blood was positive. Hemoglobin was 2.8 g/dL, and heatocrit was 10.1%. Following transfusion therapy, he underent upper gastrointestinal and small bowel follow-through. o focal mucosal abnormalities were seen in the stomach or uodenum. A plain abdominal X-ray was normal except for ultiple round calcifications in the lower abdomen (Figure C). olonoscopy revealed large dilated tortuous veins in the rectoigmoid with hyperemic, edematous, and friable mucosa that bled asily on manipulation of the scope (Figure D). An emergent omputed tomography scan revealed hepato-spleenomegaly with rominent hepatic veins (Figure E). The inferior vena cava and onadal veins were markedly dilated (Figure F). Walls of the ecto-sigmoid were tremendously thickened and had multiple alcified phleboliths (Figures F and G). Scattered varicosities
Resonant waveguide–grating switching device with nonlinear optical material

The design and analysis of a dielectric guided-mode resonance filter (GMRF) utilizing a nonlinear material for the waveguide is presented. Small changes to the parameters of a GMRF have a large impact on its resonance. A nonlinear material can provide a small change in the refractive index of the waveguide, altering the resonance of the device and resulting in modulation of the transmitted and reflected output of the filter. Numerical results show that nonlinear switching from 100% transmission to 100% reflection can be accomplished with less than 100 kW/cm2 using a simple design.
Cryptic invasion by a non-native genotype of the common reed, Phragmites australis, into North America

Cryptic invasions are a largely unrecognized type of biological invasion that lead to underestimation of the total numbers and impacts of invaders because of the difficulty in detecting them. The distribution and abundance of Phragmites australis in North America has increased dramatically over the past 150 years. This research tests the hypothesis that a non-native strain of Phragmites is responsible for the observed spread. Two noncoding chloroplast DNA regions were sequenced for samples collected worldwide, throughout the range of Phragmites. Modern North American populations were compared with historical ones from herbarium collections. Results indicate that an introduction has occurred, and the introduced type has displaced native types as well as expanded to regions previously not known to have Phragmites. Native types apparently have disappeared from New England and, while still present, may be threatened in other parts of North America.
Printed circuits for studying rock mass permeability

The purpose of this technical note is to describe an analog technique for studying the interconnection of joints, the equivalent flow path lengths and hence the permeability in any direction along a plane through a rock mass. The joint geometry, whether for a specific site or as a statistical simulation, is drawn as an array of joint traces. The drawing is translated directly into a printed circuit which allows the active network and equivalent pathlengths through the geometry in different directions to be established rapidly. The technique has several advantages including the fact that surface and underground excavation geometries can be simulated easily and different joint apertures can be modelled. (Author/TRRL)
The Destruction of Exergy During the Combustion Process for a Spark-Ignition Engine

The second law of thermodynamics provides the mechanism for assessing the quality of energy. The non-conserved property used for this assessment is called exergy, availability or available energy. For the internal combustion engine, the exergy of the fuel is distributed among work, heat transfer, exhaust, and is destroyed by several processes. The major destruction of exergy for the internal combustion engine is during the combustion process. This paper documents this destruction for a wide range of engine operating parameters, design parameters, and fuels. A 5.7 liter, spark ignition, automotive engine was selected for this study. Operating parameters that were examined included equivalence ratio, speed, load and spark timing. Design parameters that were examined included compression ratio, expansion ratio and the use of turbocharging. Combustion parameters and oxidizer were examined as well. The fuels examined included isooctane (base), methane, propane, hexane, methanol, ethanol, hydrogen and carbon monoxide. For the part load base case (1400 rpm and a bmep of 325 kPa) using isooctane, the destruction of exergy was 21% of the fuel exergy. For many of the engine operating and design parameters, this destruction was relatively constant (between about 20 and 23%). The parameters that resulted in the greatest change of the exergy destruction were (1) exhaust gas recirculation, and (2) inlet oxygen concentration. In general, the amount of the destruction of exergy during the combustion processes was associated with the level of the combustion temperatures.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Mechanistic considerations for human relevance of cancer hazard of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate

Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is a peroxisome proliferator agent that is widely used as a plasticizer to soften polyvinylchloride plastics and non-polymers. Both occupational (e.g., by inhalation during its manufacture and use as a plasticizer of polyvinylchloride) and environmental (medical devices, contamination of food, or intake from air, water and soil) routes of exposure to DEHP are of concern for human health. There is sufficient evidence for carcinogenicity of DEHP in the liver in both rats and mice; however, there is little epidemiological evidence on possible associations between exposure to DEHP and liver cancer in humans. Data are available to suggest that liver is not the only target tissue for DEHP-associated toxicity and carcinogenicity in both humans and rodents. The debate regarding human relevance of the findings in rats or mice has been informed by studies on the mechanisms of carcinogenesis of the peroxisome proliferator class of chemicals, including DEHP. Important additional mechanistic information became available in the past decade, including, but not limited to, sub-acute, sub-chronic and chronic studies with DEHP in peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) α-null mice, as well as experiments utilizing several transgenic mouse lines. Activation of PPARα and the subsequent downstream events mediated by this transcription factor represent an important mechanism of action for DEHP in rats and mice. However, additional data from animal models and studies in humans exposed to DEHP from the environment suggest that multiple molecular signals and pathways in several cell types in the liver, rather than a single molecular event, contribute to the cancer in rats and mice. In addition, the toxic and carcinogenic effects of DEHP are not limited to liver. The International Agency for Research on Cancer working group concluded that the human relevance of the molecular events leading to cancer elicited by DEHP in several target tissues (e.g., liver and testis) in rats and mice can not be ruled out and DEHP was classified as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B).
Construction, schematism, and imagination

Kant maintains that mathematical judgments are synthetic — that we cannot ground them merely through reflection on their constituent concepts. Instead, he argues, we must construct those concepts, i.e., “exhibit a priori the intuition which corresponds to” them, grounding our judgments on what can be made evident only through such construction. (A 713/B 741)1 I first sketch an interpretation of Kant’s doctrine, focusing on the construction of arithmetical concepts. I then go on to indicate how an understanding of Kant’s view concerning arithmetical construction can shed light on his views concerning imagination.