cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of nutrient media on photobiological hydrogen production by Anabaena variabilis ATCC 29413

This study reports a factor 5.5 increase in hydrogen production of Anabaena variabilis ATCC 29413 using Allen-Arnon medium compared with BG-11 and BG-11o media. The results were obtained with a flat panel photobioreactor made of acrylic and operated in two stages at 30oC. Stage 1 aims at converting carbon dioxide into biomass by photosynthesis while Stage 2 aims at producing hydrogen. During Stage 1, the photobioreactor is irradiated with 65 umol/m2/s of light and sparged with a mixture of air and carbon dioxide. During Stage 2, irradiance is increased to 150 umol/m2/s and the photobioreactor is sparged with pure argon. The parameters continuously monitored are (1) the cyanobacteria concentration, (2) the pH, (3) the dissolved oxygen concentration, (4) the nitrate and (5) the ammonia concentrations in the medium, and (6) the hydrogen concentration in the effluent gas. The three media BG-11, BG-11o, and Allen-Arnon are tested under otherwise similar conditions. The light to biomass energy conversion efficiency varied between 5.5 and 10.5% and was similar for all media. The cyanobacteria concentrations during Stage 2 were 1.10 and 1.17 kg dry cell/m3 with BG-11 and Allen-Arnon media, respectively, while it could not exceed 0.76 kg dry cell/m3 with medium BG-11o. The average specific hydrogen production rates were about 1 and 0.9 L/kg dry cell/h in media BG-11 and BG-11o, respectively. In contrast, it was about 5.6 L/kg dry cell/h in Allen-Arnon medium. The maximum light to hydrogen energy conversion efficiencies achieved were 0.26%, 0.16%, and 1.32% for BG-11, BG-11o, and Allen-Arnon media, respectively. The larger specific hydrogen production rates, efficiencies, and cyanobacteria concentrations achieved using Allen-Arnon medium are attributed to the presence of vanadium, and higher concentrations of molybdenum, magnesium, calcium, sodium, and potassium in the medium.
Time course of the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) abnormality in human stroke

Diffusion-weighted MRI can rapidly detect acute cerebral ischemic injury as hyperintense signal changes, reflecting a decline in the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) of water through brain parenchyma, whereas ADC is elevated in the chronic stage because of increased extracellular water content. To determine the time course of these ADC changes, we analyzed 157 diffusion-weighted MRI studies performed at varying time points from the initial ischemic event from 101 patients. Data were expressed as the relative ADC (rADC), the ratio of lesion to control regions of interest. We observed two phases in the time course of rADC changes in acute human stroke: a significant (p or = 7 days). We suggest that the persistent reduction of rADC within the first four days may reflect ongoing or progressive cytotoxic edema to a greater degree than extracellular edema and cell lysis.
Vaginal versus robotic hysterectomy and concomitant pelvic support surgery: a comparison of postoperative vaginal length and sexual function.

Abstract Study Objective To compare the change from pre- to postoperative total vaginal length (TVL) in women who underwent either a total vaginal hysterectomy (TVH) with uterosacral ligament suspension (USLS) or a robotic hysterectomy (RH) with colpopexy (SCP). Secondary objectives included comparing sexual function, pelvic floor function, and prolapse recurrence between routes of surgery. Design This was a retrospective cohort study (Canadian Task Force classification II-2). Setting This was conducted at 1 tertiary academic medical center over a 2-year period. Patients Women who underwent either TVH/USLS or RH/SCP. Interventions Baseline and postoperative POP-Q Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification exams were recorded as well as postoperative validated questionnaires. Twenty-nine subjects were needed in each group to detect a 1.5-cm difference in TVL. Measurements and Main Results There were 38 TVH/USLS and 46 RH/SCP participants. RHs were either total (28/46 [61%]) or supracervical (18/46 [39%]). The mean postoperative follow-up was 9.5 ± 3.1 months. For the primary outcome, women in the TVH/USLS group had a decrease in TVL, whereas women in the RH/SCP group had an increase in TVL (−0.6 ± 1.0 cm vs 0.5 ± 0.8 cm, p Conclusion Vaginal length decreased after vaginal hysterectomy with pelvic support surgery compared with RH with pelvic support surgery, with no differences in postoperative sexual function or pelvic floor function between groups.
Confessions of a behavior therapist in primary care: The odyssey and the ecstasy

As the pressures surrounding health care reform continue to mount, there has been a corresponding emphasis on re-integrating health and behavioral health services. This trend promises to provide behaviorally trained clinicians with numerous opportunities to practice in medical settings. The de facto mental health system in the United States is the primary care system; yet, there are few behavioral health practitioners practicing “on site” in primary care practice groups. This is unfortunate, because research studies and clinical experience suggest that physicians have very favorable attitudes toward behavioral procedures and use them regularly in medical practice. This article attempts to summarize key learning experiences from a 5-year primary care integration project at Group Health Cooperative, organized by three behaviorally trained psychologists. The major principles underpinning effective health and behavioral health integration will be examined. Main sources of organizational and disciplinary resistance, along with some “tried and true” strategies for countering that resistance, are highlighted. The concept of primary mental health care is introduced, as a distinctive form of behavioral health service that shares many of the philosophies of primary medical care. Changes in the structure of clinical practice are inevitable in primary care and, accordingly, moving to a consultation model is a more viable method for delivering services. The defining characteristics of the consultant, versus therapist, model will be highlighted, as will the core clinical services that are most valued in primary care settings. Finally, key practice style adjustments will be discussed to highlight how much the practice of behavior therapy must change to accommodate the demands of the primary care setting.
Characterization of the apoptotic effects of human tumor necrosis factor: development of highly rapid and specific bioassay for human tumor necrosis factor and lymphotoxin using human target cells.

Abstract Currently available bioassays for most cytokines require several days and therefore must be performed under sterile conditions. In this report we describe a bioassay for tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and lymphotoxin (LT) that is extremely rapid and specific and does not require sterile conditions. Using tritiated thymidine release, we could conveniently monitor degradation of DNA into small fragments following the incubation of human myelogenous leukemia ML-1a cells with TNF. The assay showed that TNF-dependent DNA fragmentation was potentiated by cycloheximide and occurred within 90 min. Treatment of cells to TNF lead to apoptosis as indicated by thymidine release, DNA laddering on agarose gels and morphological alterations. Under these conditions, plasma membrane were not damaged as indicated by lack of chromium release. This effect was linear with TNF concentration. This assay had high throughput, did not require sterile conditions, could be carried out in the absence of serum, and was sensitive only to TNF and LT and not to interferon (IFN)-α, IFN-β, IFN-γ, transforming growth factor β, interleukin-4, leukemia inhibitory factor and granulocyte-monocyte colony stimulating factor; all cytokines known to inhibit different cell types. Besides detection of TNF in biological fluids, this assay may prove useful for the identification of novel inhibitors of TNF action.
Interaction of monoclonal antibodies to electroplaque acetylcholine receptors with the α-bungarotoxin binding site of goldfish brain

Polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies raised against acetylcholine receptors from Torpedo californica and Electrophorus electricus electroplaque were tested for interaction with the [ 125 I]α-bungarotoxin binding protein of goldfish brain. A subset of monoclonal antibodies which recognize the main immunogenic region of the α subunit of the Electrophorus acetylcholine receptor interacted at high affinity with the [ 125 I]α-bungarotoxin binding protein. Using immunofluorescence, these antibodies were shown to label the same layers of the optic tectum as [ 125 I]α-bungarotoxin.
The evolution of reproductive structures in seed plants: a re‐examination based on insights from developmental genetics

The study of developmental genetics is providing insights into how plant morphology can and does evolve, and into the fundamental nature of specific organs. This new understanding has the potential to revise significantly the way we think about seed plant evolution, especially with regard to reproductive structures. Here, we have sought to take a step in bridging the divide between genetic data and critical fields such as paleobotany and systematics. We discuss the evidence for several evolutionarily important interpretations, including the possibility that ovules represent meristematic axes with their own type of lateral determinate organs (integuments) and a model that considers carpels as analogs of complex leaves. In addition, we highlight the aspects of reproductive development that are likely to be highly labile and homoplastic, factors that have major implications for the understanding of seed plant relationships. Although these hypotheses may suggest that some long-standing interpretations are misleading, they also open up whole new avenues for comparative study and suggest concrete best practices for evolutionary analyses of development.
First Year Engineering Projects to Senior Capstone Design: Are Students Gaining Technical and Professional Skills?

Innovative curriculum reforms have been instituted at several universities and colleges with the intention of developing the technical competence and professional skills of engineering students. First Year Engineering Project (FYEP), or Freshman Design courses have been integrated into undergraduate engineering curricula across the country. Many of these courses provide students with hands-on engineering opportunities early in the curriculum. Senior Capstone Design (SCD) courses are ubiquitous in engineering programs, incorporating technical knowledge and real-world problem solving. Previous research has shown that project-driven classes like FYEP and SCD increase the professional and technical design skills of students. While research into first year and senior design skills development has been more robust, scant research investigating the transformation of skills between freshman design experiences and senior design experiences has been performed. This research project investigates the longitudinal technical and professional skill development of mechanical engineering students at the University of Colorado at Boulder. An overview of First-Year Engineering Projects and the mechanical engineering Senior Capstone Design project course is detailed. Technical and professional skill objectives are discussed within the paper. Pre and post skill surveys were utilized in both First-Year Engineering Projects and the Senior Capstone Design classes. Initial results indicate that student skills deteriorate between the end of the first-year and beginning of the senior year.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Impact of an educational intervention on steroid prescribing and dosing effect on patient outcomes in COPD exacerbations

*The increasing number of patients affected by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and associated exacerbations has led to both rising hospital admissions and significant economic impact. Evidence-based guidelines have been formulated for COPD management recommending the use of low dose, oral corticosteroid therapy in the treatment of exacerbations. However, fewer than 50% of physicians’ prescribing practices appropriately reflect the published clinical guidelines on the use of systemic corticosteroids in these patients.
Predictors of outcome following hip fracture rehabilitation

Objective To determine the potential predictors of functional outcome after hip fracture rehabilitation in a large acute inpatient rehabilitation facility. Design Retrospective chart review study. Setting Large acute inpatient rehabilitation hospital. Participants Patients admitted with a primary admitting diagnosis of hip fracture (n = 753). Patients were excluded if their hip fracture was the result of high-velocity trauma and if their stay was shorter than 48 hours (196 patients). Methods Independent variables included body mass index, gender, ethnicity, smoking history, alcohol consumption, past living situation, past ambulatory status, medical history, prealbumin level, medications that increase the risk of falling, and evidence of prior osteoporosis workup and treatment. These data were entered into a password-encrypted database. Univariate analyses were carried out to evaluate the relationship between independent variables and main outcomes, and multivariate analyses were performed to assess the impact of medical history of diabetes adjusting for other covariates. Main Outcome Measurements Discharge location; length of rehabilitation hospital stay (LOS); Functional Independence Measure (FIM) gain, which is calculated as the FIM discharge – FIM admission ; and length of stay efficiency (LOSE), which is calculated as the FIM gain divided by the LOS, and measures the rate of FIM change. Results Patients with diabetes had a worse LOSE ( P = .0008). Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that patients who have a medical history of diabetes have a 0.33 reduction of LOSE compared with other patients. Predictors of better LOSE included younger age ( P P P = .0003). Conclusion We have found several significant patient characteristics that portend a better functional outcome after hip fracture. These include younger age, female gender, absence of diabetes mellitus, independent prefracture ambulation, not living alone before fracture, and being prescribed fewer medications that predispose to falling during rehabilitation. On the contrary, one of our most interesting findings is that patients with diabetes made slower gains, had a longer LOS and were less likely to be discharged directly home from the acute rehabilitation facility. There are numerous factors that may contribute to this, and suggestions are made for future research.
Stochastic response of tension leg platforms to wind and wave fields

Abstract The dynamic behavior of tension leg platforms (TLPs) under the simultaneous action of random wind and wave fields is investigated in this study. Computationally efficient time and frequency domain analysis procedures are developed to analyze wind-wave-current-structure interaction problems. The aerodynamic load effects are described by the space-time description of the random wind field. The hydrodynamic loads are expressed in terms of a combination of viscous and potential effects. A numerically accurate and computationally efficient computer code based on the boundary element method (BEM) is developed for evaluating diffraction and radiat. forces. In the time domain, ARMA (autoregressive and moving average) and discrete convolution and differentiation, and a hybrid combination of these are utilized to generate the time histories describing wind- and wave-related processes and the resulting response. In the frequency domain, the concept of Hermite polynomial expansion of the nonlinear drag force is extended to describe the multi-directional drag forces in terms of bivariate and trivariate expansions correct up to the quadratic terms. A stochastic decomposition technique is developed which significantly enhances the efficiency of the frequency domain analysis of complex systems. A numerical scheme involving iterative and perturbation techniques is utilized to evaluate the second-order response statistics. The response of a typical TLP in six degrees of freedom shows excellent agreement between the time and frequency domain analyses. The influence of the various loading components on the TLP response is delineated. The sensitivity of the platform response to environmental loading conditions and the mechanical and hydrodynamic characteristics of the platform is studied. The frequency domain approach developed here retains the effects of nonlinear interactions and offers accuracy that is comparable to the time domain approach at a fraction of the computational effort. The utilization of the analysis procedure developed here is not limited to the analysis of compliant offshore structures, rather immediate applications exist for other nonlinear stochastic dynamic systems.
An assessment on the accuracy of time-domain reflectometry for measuring the characteristic impedance of transmission lines

An assessment of time-domain reflectometry (TDR) for measuring the characteristic impedance Z/sub TL/ of transmission lines is performed. The assessment includes the accuracy of measuring ZTL as a function of TDR electrical impedance Z/sub o/, the ability to measure impedance perturbations as a function Of ZTL and Z/sub o/, and the ability to differentiate between transmission lines of similar ZTL. The information presented will be especially useful for those using 50 /spl Omega/ TDR systems to characterize transmission lines having characteristic impedances less than about 30 /spl Omega/.
Model order selection for multidimensional innovations based detection in airborne radar

This paper investigates the model order selection problem for use with the multidimensional autoregressive (MAR) process in airborne radar detection processing which uses an innovations based detection algorithm (IBDA). Results indicate that a low order model should be used to accurately portray the return signal spectrum. Specifically, this paper investigates the use of the Akaike (1971) information criterion for model order selection. Examples are included for physically modeled data sets as well as actual radar data sets.
Hydrogen Peroxide Has Opposing Effects on IKK Activity and I κ B α Breakdown in Airway Epithelial Cells

Recent studies have advanced our knowledge about the signal transduction cascade involved in the activation of nuclear factor (NF) κ B, including the identification and characterization of I κ B kinases (IKKs). Although exposure to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in vitro can activate NF- κ B, this response is not universal and depends on the cell type and transformation state. In this study, we examined the effects of H2O2 on IKKs and activation of NF- κ B in primary normal human bronchial epithelial (NHBE) cells. Our results demonstrate that treatment with H2O2 increased IKK activity, phosphorylation, and ubiquitination of I κ B α in NHBE cells. However, there was no significant proteolytic degradation of I κ B α , nuclear translocation of p65, or NF- κ B DNA binding activity in cells treated with H2O2. Treatment with H2O2 also inhibited tumor necrosis factor (TNF)- α –induced I κ B α breakdown, NF- κ B DNA binding activity, and NF- κ B–dependent transcription but had no effect on TNF- α –induced I κ B α phosp...
Cerebral infarction in older age Nature or (lack of) nurture

Adverse experiences in childhood are pervasive, with a large population-based study reporting at least 1 adverse experience, such as parental divorce, maternal or paternal depression/anxiety, or sexual abuse, in 73% of respondents.1 Further, half of the respondents reported 2 or more adversities, highlighting the tendency for these exposures to cluster. Observational studies have found that experiences and exposures early in life are associated with development of psychiatric and medical conditions in adulthood. To date, the clinical importance and causal pathways to explain relationships between childhood adverse events and development of nonpsychiatric disease later …
Circuit model of a phase-shifting transformer for analog power flow emulation

This paper focuses on the development of a phase shifting transformer model designed to be utilized in analog simulation (emulation). Simulation of power systems is necessary for both operation and planning and depends on suitable models of the components in the system. Analog computation as a technology for the analysis of large scale power systems represents a viable alternative to traditional digital methods as it provides certain advantages, such as speed and parallelism. Prior research in this field has modeled generators, loads and transmission lines. The transformer model proposed here provides a more accurate depiction of the network and captures the behavior of phase shifting transformers. The transformer is modeled in analog form. The circuit model is constructed and verified via software simulation using Analog Behavioral Models (ABMs) in PSpice and compared with industrial grade numerical simulator for validation.
Adherence of Diamond Films Produced by Microwave Plasma Deposition on Sialon Tool Inserts

The adherence of diamond films produced by microwave-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (CVD) on SiAlON tool inserts was assessed by scratch, indentation and machining tests on aluminum alloys. While the films are nominally adherent during handling and mild cutting operations, the measured adherence values are appreciably lower than values associated with conventional CVD coatings on cobalt-tungsten carbide cutting inserts. An indentation type adhesion test using polished substrates was found to yield reproducible behavior for interfacial crack extension at loads ranging from 15 to 150 kg. The “critical load” in scratch testing was found to be less than 10 N.
When "Need Plus Supply" Does Not Equal Demand: Challenges in Uptake of Depression Treatment in HIV Clinical Care

Objective:Depression is common among patients in HIV care and is associated with worse HIV-related health behaviors and outcomes. Effective depression treatment is available, yet depression remains widely underdiagnosed and undertreated in HIV care.Methods:As part of a multisite, randomized trial of depression treatment in HIV clinical care, the proportion of positive depression screens that resulted in study enrollment and reasons for nonenrollment were examined.Results:Over 33 months, patients completed 9,765 depression screens; 19% were positive for depression, and of these 88% were assessed for study eligibility. Of assessed positive screens, 11% resulted in study enrollment. Nonenrollment after a positive screen was sometimes dictated by the study eligibility criteria, but it was often related to potentially modifiable provider- or patient-level barriers.Conclusions:Addressing patient- and provider-level barriers to engaging in depression treatment will be critical to maximize the reach of depression...
Demand for Manufacturers' Services for Bakery Products and Fruits and Vegetables

Abstract The historic rise in food manufacturing in the United States was largely the result of a shift from home to factory processing. To help explain this shift, the household demand for factory processing services is separated from the demand for the other components of manufactured food. The “observed” household demand for food processing services is then viewed as a residual demand; the difference between the household's consumer demand and its own supply of services. Demand relations are estimated for factory processing services related to two major categories of food, fruits and vegetables and bakery products. The broad conclusions are that the income elasticities for processing services for both categories of food are less than or equal to unity; and, that the price elasticities which reflect household substitution of factory processing for home processing are at least as great (in absolute value) as the respective income elasticities.
Urinary bladder adenocarcinoma arising in a spina bifida patient

Urinary bladder adenocarcinomas are rare malignancies accounting for approximately 2.5% of all urothelial neoplasms. Intestinal metaplasia of the urothelium indicates the presence of intestinal-type goblet cells and was generally observed to coexist with or to precede the diagnosis of bladder adenocarcinomas. Controversy continues of whether intestinal metaplasia is an acquired precancerous lesion, secondary to different insults to the urothelium, or a concomitant lesion in glandular carcinogenesis. Patients with neurogenic bladders are particularly at risk for developing bladder cancer, mostly squamous cell carcinoma and rarely adenocarcinoma. In these patients, chronic irritation of the urothelium as well as long-term indwelling urinary catheters were the most significant risk factors. Spina bifida is a congenital developmental abnormality that may result in neurogenic bladder. There is only one previously reported case of urothelial carcinoma with associated squamous metaplasia of the bladder occurring in a spina bifida patient. We report the first case of bladder adenocarcinoma associated with intestinal metaplasia occurring in a spina bifida occulta patient. The patient had a complicated clinical course and suffered recurrent urinary tract infections, renal calculi, and urinary incontinence and was managed with intermittent as well as indwelling catheterization.
Solving the software protection problem with intrinsic personal physical unclonable functions.

Physical Unclonable Functions (PUFs) or Physical One Way Functions (P-OWFs) are physical systems whose responses to input stimuli (i.e., challenges) are easy to measure (within reasonable error bounds) but hard to clone. The unclonability property comes from the accepted hardness of replicating the multitude of characteristics introduced during the manufacturing process. This makes PUFs useful for solving problems such as device authentication, software protection, licensing, and certified execution. In this paper, we focus on the effectiveness of PUFs for software protection in offline settings. We first argue that traditional (black-box) PUFs are not useful for protecting software in settings where communication with a vendor's server or third party network device is infeasible or impossible. Instead, we argue that Intrinsic PUFs are needed to solve the above mentioned problems because they are intrinsically involved in processing the information that is to be protected. Finally, we describe how sources of randomness in any computing device can be used for creating intrinsic-personal-PUFs (IP-PUF) and present experimental results in using standard off-the-shelf computers as IP-PUFs.
A cost-intelligent application-specific data layout scheme for parallel file systems

I/O data access is a recognized performance bottleneck of high-end computing. Several commercial and research parallel file systems have been developed in recent years to ease the performance bottleneck. These advanced file systems perform well on some applications but may not perform well on others. They have not reached their full potential in mitigating the I/O-wall problem. Data access is application dependent. Based on the application-specific optimization principle, in this study we propose a cost-intelligent data access strategy to improve the performance of parallel file systems. We first present a novel model to estimate data access cost of different data layout policies. Next, we extend the cost model to calculate the overall I/O cost of any given application and choose an appropriate layout policy for the application. A complex application may consist of different data access patterns. Averaging the data access patterns may not be the best solution for those complex applications that do not have a dominant pattern. We then further propose a hybrid data replication strategy for those applications, so that a file can have replications with different layout policies for the best performance. Theoretical analysis and experimental testing have been conducted to verify the newly proposed cost-intelligent layout approach. Analytical and experimental results show that the proposed cost model is effective and the application-specific data layout approach achieved up to 74% performance improvement for data-intensive applications.
Standardized Income Inequality Data for Use in Cross-National Research

This article introduces the first version of a new, standardized data tool that can be used to test models of global income allocation, the Standardized Income Distribution Database (SIDD). It is based on a comprehensive collection of income distribution data compiled by the United Nations University's World Institute for Development Economics Research (UNU-WIDER 2000). International and intertemporal inconsistencies in these data have historically limited its use. We estimate adjustment factors for different scopes of coverage, income definitions, and reference units which, when applied to the raw data, bring all data to a common standard based on national coverage, gross income, and household per capita inequality. Criterion validity checks confirm that these adjustments boost the correlation between measured income inequality and national social indicators. The SIDD is also clean, free of duplicates, and easy to access. The SIDD will be useful both to students reading income inequality and to those conducting broad cross-national research on the relationship between income inequality and a range of important outcomes, such as health, criminality, and social support.
Adoption of technological innovations in the m-commerce industry

The banking industry has globalised as a result of the many technology innovations created by the internet. The electronic commerce (e-commerce) industry is a result of these technological innovations that have revolutionised the way both consumers and businesses conduct business. In the past decade, banks have encouraged the use of e-commerce and most people are now comfortable conducting their banking online. More recently, mobile commerce (m-commerce) has started to gain momentum and an increasing amount of people are conducting their banking on mobile phone devices instead of through the internet. Mobile banking is a technological innovation that people adopt in different ways depending on internal and external environmental influences. In this paper, a social cognitive theoretical framework is adopted to understand an individual's intention to adopt mobile banking. A conceptual model is proposed, which helps to explain how environmental influences affect an individual's intention to adopt mobile banking. Implications for mobile banking and m-commerce industry are stated along with suggestions for future research on technological innovations.
Locally connected VLSI architectures for the Viterbi algorithm

The Viterbi algorithm is a well-established technique for channel and source decoding in high-performance digital communication systems. Implementations of the Viterbi algorithm on three types of locally connected processor arrays are described. The restriction is motivated by the fact that both the cost and performance metrics of VLSI favour architectures in which on-chip interprocessor communication is localized. Each of the structures presented can accommodate arbitrary alphabet sizes and algorithm memory lengths. >
Econometric Issues in Modeling Returns and Managerial Efficiency in the Hedge Fund Industry

The main focus of this paper is to explore the potential econometric im-provements that can be achieved in estimating hedge fund returns. Specifically, we examine the effects of incorporating the following three adjustments to estimating managerial efficiency; (1) a selection bias adjustment model, (2) a nonlinear specification; and (3) a fixed effect model. Diagnostic tests confirm the importance of these adjustments in modeling hedge fund return. We propose a model that incorporates all three issues while retaining simplicity and computational efficiency. Using hedge fund data over the period 1996-2008, our basic results show that when selectivity, nonlinearity, and fund heterogeneity are taken into account, a more robust estimate of the effect of key variables has on hedge fund return can be obtained and the overall explanatory power of the model can be improved.
Kuhn’s Structure of Scientific Revolutions

Kuhn’s (1970) model of scientific development provides a metaphor for delineating the processes associated with personal identity development as well as the process of change in psychotherapy. In early development, self may be viewed as functioning as a scientist in the scientific community of family relationships. Later, the individual may become both scientist and scientific community. In the face of crisis, the scientific community may expand slightly to include client and therapist who engage in a process described by Kelly as one in which “constructions are devised or delineated and then tested out.” (as cited in Neimeyer, 1987, p. 220). Often beginning at a point of personal crisis, client and therapist move through phases toward resolution of current distress (Mahoney, 1980; Mahoney, 1988) in a manner similar to Kuhn’s periods of revolutionary science.
Verification of enhanced dynamic torque per ampere capability in saturated induction machines

An easily implemented technique for dynamic torque per ampere enhancement under high levels of motor saturation is described and validated via substantial experimental results presented in this paper. A saturation model assuming only d-axis saturation is utilized in field oriented control of the experimental system and the results are compared to theoretical predictions based on the same saturation model. In order to help users optimize this technique, the paper discusses motor selection issues for the production of this dynamic torque enhancement. An experimental illustration of the use of the torque enhancement principle to break away a load with high static friction is presented to demonstrate the practical application of the concept. Measurement methods used to evaluate the dynamic properties of the electromagnetic torque are presented in sufficient detail that users have appropriate tools for performing such work. >
Evaluation of methods for calculating volume fraction in Eulerian-Lagrangian multiphase flow simulations

The present work addresses numerical methods required to compute particle volume fraction or number density. Local volume fraction of the lth particle, α l , is the quantity of foremost importance in calculating the gas-mediated particle-particle interaction effect in multiphase flows. A general multiphase flow with a distribution of Lagrangian particles inside a fluid flow discretized on an Eulerian grid is considered. Particle volume fraction is needed both as a Lagrangian quantity associated with each particle and also as an Eulerian quantity associated with the grid cell for Eulerian-Lagrangian simulations. In Grid-Based (GB) methods the particle volume fraction is first obtained within each grid cell as an Eulerian quantity and then the local particle volume fraction associated with any Lagrangian particle can be obtained from interpolation. The second class of methods presented are Particle-Based (PB) methods, where particle volume fraction will first be obtained at each particle as a Lagrangian quantity, which then can be projected onto the Eulerian grid. Traditionally, the GB methods are used in multiphase flow, but sub-grid resolution can be obtained through use of the PB methods. By evaluating the total error, and its discretization, bias and statistical error components, the performance of the different PB methods is compared against several common GB methods of calculating volume fraction. The standard von Neumann error analysis technique has been adapted for evaluation of rate of convergence of the different methods. The discussion and error analysis presented focus on the volume fraction calculation, but the methods can be extended to obtain field representations of other Lagrangian quantities, such as particle velocity and temperature.
Centrocentral Anastomosis with Autologous Nerve Graft Treatment of Foot and Ankle Neuromas

Painful neuromatas in the foot and around the ankle can be difficult to treat. Five patients of clinically and histologically proven neuromas underwent centrocentral union with autologous transplan...
Ge Transport and Epitaxy on [111] Si in the Ge/Pd2Si/Si System

Solid phase epitaxy in the amorphous(a)-Ge/Pd 2 Si/Si system has been investigated in the temperature range of 600 to 750 °C. The top Ge started to migrate into the suicide layer at 600 °C. After longer time annealing the mixed Ge released from the suicide matrix and formed a laterally uniform epitaxial Ge 70 Si 30 layer on the [111] Si substrate. A minimum yield of 0.1 was achieved for a 800 A-thick Ge 70 Ge 30 layer.
Psychological science and sound public policy: Video recording of custodial interrogations.

Interrogation-induced false confessions virtually guarantee that the innocent suspects who made them will be wrongly prosecuted and convicted. One widely endorsed recommendation for curbing such miscarriages of justice is to video record custodial interrogations in their entirety, the belief being that the resulting audiovisual record will enable trial fact finders to make more accurate assessments of the voluntariness and veracity of suspects' statements. Psychological science, however, highlights a variety of potential pitfalls associated with the video-recording practice. Some can be avoided with proper implementation of the practice, and in these instances research-based policy recommendations are provided to successfully accomplish this objective. Others, unfortunately, are not as easily sidestepped, and in these instances criminal-justice practitioners should heed the adage "Forewarned is forearmed" when making use of video-recorded interrogations.
Potentiation of lymphomagenesis by methylnitrosourea in mice transgenic for LMO1 is blocked by O6-alkylguanine DNA-alkyltransferase.

Potentiation of lymphomagenesis by methylnitrosourea in mice transgenic for LMO1 is blocked by O 6 -alkylguanine DNA-alkyltransferase
How well do individual first pass perfusion images correlate with fully quantitative myocardial blood flow pixel maps

Methods 27 subjects (17 male; age 62 ± 11 years) with coronary artery disease as defined by quantitative coronary angiography were included in this study. Greater than 70% luminal coronary stenosis of the major epicardial coronaries was present in 2/3 of the subjects. Perfusion imaging was performed using a saturation recovery steadystate free precession dual-sequence method at 1.5 T during Regadenoson vasodilator stress and at rest, using 0.05 mmol/kg Gadolinium-DTPA. Pixel-wise MBF maps were calculated from a mid-ventricular motion-corrected image series. Myocardial regions of interest were manually traced on the perfusion image series to restrict analysis to the myocardium. The MBF pixel values were then correlated with individual perfusion image signal intensities on a pixel-by-pixel basis for each perfusion image in the series (Pearson’s correlation coefficient).
Multilevel Associations of Neighborhood Poverty, Crime, and Satisfaction With Blood Pressure in African-American Adults

Background African-American adults experience the highest rates of elevated blood pressure (BP), and this disparity may be linked to socioeconomic and neighborhood-related disadvantage. Based on a bioecological stress-buffering framework, relations of poverty and neighborhood environmental perceptions with BP were assessed using multilevel regression in at-risk African-American adults. Methods This cross-sectional study used baseline data that were collected in 2008 as part of the Positive Action for Today's Health (PATH) trial (N = 409), a community-based intervention to increase walking in low-income, high-crime neighborhoods. BP and perceived neighborhood crime and satisfaction were investigated as individual-level indicators of health and neighborhood environment. Census block groups (N = 22) served as geographic proxies for neighborhoods, and poverty was obtained using 2010 U.S. Census data, to characterize the neighborhood-level socioeconomic environment. Results There were no individual-level direct associations. Significant cross-product interactions demonstrated that with higher perceived crime, high satisfaction was associated with lower systolic (γ = 3.34) and diastolic (γ = -1.37) BP, but low satisfaction was associated with higher systolic (γ = 15.12) and diastolic (γ = 7.57) BP. Neighborhood-level poverty was associated with diastolic (γ = 11.48, SE = 4.08, P = 0.008) and systolic BP (γ = 12.79, SE = 6.33, P = 0.052). Variance in BP across block groups was low (intraclass correlation coefficients = 0.002-0.014) and there were no significant random effects. Conclusions Results supported hypotheses, with greater neighborhood satisfaction linked to lower systolic and diastolic BP when perceived crime was high. Neighborhood poverty was also linked to higher systolic and diastolic BP. Prevention efforts should further investigate whether attending to issues of poverty and related neighborhood perceptions reduces high BP in at-risk African-American communities.
Removal of Selected Metals from Wastewater Using a Constructed Wetland.

Removal of selected metals from municipal wastewater using a constructed wetland with a horizontal subsurface flow was studied. The objective of the work was to determine the efficiency of Cu, Zn, Ni, Co, Sr, Li, and Rb removal, and to describe the main removal mechanisms. The highest removal efficiencies were attained for zinc and copper (89.8 and 81.5%, respectively). It is apparently due to the precipitation of insoluble sulfides (ZnS, CuS) in the vegetation bed where the sulfate reduction takes place. Significantly lower removal efficiencies (43.9, 27.7, and 21.5%) were observed for Li, Sr, and Rb, respectively. Rather, low removal efficiencies were also attained for Ni and Co (39.8 and 20.9%). However, the concentrations of these metals in treated water were significantly lower compared to Cu and Zn (e.g., 2.8 ± 0.5 and 1.7 ± 0.3 μg/l for Ni at the inflow and outflow from the wetland compared to 27.6 ± 12.0 and 5.1 ± 4.7 μg/l obtained for Cu, respectively). The main perspective of the constructed wetland is the removal of toxic heavy metals forming insoluble compounds depositing in the wetland bed. Metal uptake occurs preferentially in wetland sediments and is closely associated with the chemism of sulfur and iron.
Management of acute pain in children.

The pathophysiology, assessment, and pharmacologic management of acute pain in infants and children are reviewed, and the mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, clinical efficacy, adverse effects, and dosages of opioid analgesics, nonopioid analgesics, and local anesthetics used for regional blocks are discussed. The pathophysiology of pain and the physiologic rationale for treatment of pain are similar in children and adults. Severe pain can be controlled by i.v. or epidural administration of opioid analgesics. Neonates are more susceptible to the depressant effects of opioids, and opioid analgesia must be administered with caution in infants who are not receiving mechanical ventilation because of the associated risk of respiratory depression. Patient-controlled analgesia is a useful technique in older children. Acetaminophen and NSAIDs are useful for relieving milder pain of noninflammatory and inflammatory origin, respectively. Epidural or intrathecal administration of local anesthetics provides regional analgesia with minimal physiologic alterations. Topical application of local anesthetics is effective for many minor procedures. A variety of pain management techniques are available for the management of acute pain in pediatric patients. The development of drugs having fewer adverse effects and noninvasive administration techniques will be important research priorities in the coming years.
The Object-Oriented Advantage

How useful is object-oriented programming? The second part of this book is starting out with a discussion of software engineering principles, such as abstraction and modularity, information hiding and encapsulation, and their potential to increase software productivity and reuse. The chapter explains how object-oriented concepts improve the software engineering process. Several examples illustrate the improvement in quality and productivity.
Modeling an Excitable Biosynthetic Tissue with Inherent Variability for Paired Computational-Experimental Studies.

To understand how excitable tissues give rise to arrhythmias, it is crucially necessary to understand the electrical dynamics of cells in the context of their environment. Multicellular monolayer cultures have proven useful for investigating arrhythmias and other conduction anomalies, and because of their relatively simple structure, these constructs lend themselves to paired computational studies that often help elucidate mechanisms of the observed behavior. However, tissue cultures of cardiomyocyte monolayers currently require the use of neonatal cells with ionic properties that change rapidly during development and have thus been poorly characterized and modeled to date. Recently, Kirkton and Bursac demonstrated the ability to create biosynthetic excitable tissues from genetically engineered and immortalized HEK293 cells with well-characterized electrical properties and the ability to propagate action potentials. In this study, we developed and validated a computational model of these excitable HEK293 cells (called “Ex293” cells) using existing electrophysiological data and a genetic search algorithm. In order to reproduce not only the mean but also the variability of experimental observations, we examined what sources of variation were required in the computational model. Random cell-to-cell and inter-monolayer variation in both ionic conductances and tissue conductivity was necessary to explain the experimentally observed variability in action potential shape and macroscopic conduction, and the spatial organization of cell-to-cell conductance variation was found to not impact macroscopic behavior; the resulting model accurately reproduces both normal and drug-modified conduction behavior. The development of a computational Ex293 cell and tissue model provides a novel framework to perform paired computational-experimental studies to study normal and abnormal conduction in multidimensional excitable tissue, and the methodology of modeling variation can be applied to models of any excitable cell.