cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Template for Analyzing and Projecting Labor Market Indicators

This note is a reference guide for the unemployment template, an econometric tool that allows researchers to analyze and project labor market indicators for any country with sufficient data coverage. Section I explains the motivation behind designing a new surveillance tool to study labor markets, and summarizes the key features of the template. Section II details the data inputs needed and their sources. Section III describes the methods used to estimate the employment-growth elasticity, a measure of the extent to which employment responds to output. Section IV outlines the medium-term outlook table and projection charts created by the template once the inputs are customized to generate an appropriate elasticity. Finally, Section V presents a discussion on how to interpret the results produced by the template, and of the issues that arise from projecting labor market indicators.
Review of the Tertiary microbombyliids (Diptera: Mythicomyiidae) in Baltic, Bitterfeld, and Dominican amber

The Tertiary amber fossil Mythicomyiidae are reviewed. One genus is described as new: Carmenelectra Evenhuis, gen.n. from Baltic amber; five species are described as new: Glabellula grimaldii Evenhuis, sp.n., Glabellula brunnifrons Evenhuis, sp.n., Mythicomyia dominicana Evenhuis, sp.n., Mythenteles baltica Evenhuis, sp.n., and Carmenelectra shechisme Evenhuis, sp.n. A new genus, Borissovia, gen.n. is described for the Cretaceous species Proplatypygus rohdendorfi Zaitzev. A total of 6 genera and 11 species of Mythicomyiidae are currently known from Tertiary amber. All Tertiary amber species are placed in extant genera except for those in the extinct genera Carmenelectra and Proplatypygus.
The Remarkable Capacities of (6,0) Carbon and Carbon/Boron/Nitrogen Model Nanotubes for Transmission of Electronic Effects

We have found that at least some (6,0) carbon and carbon/boron/nitrogen model nanotubes possess a remarkable capability for transmitting electronic effects along their full lengths. This can be triggered by even a rather minor asymmetric perturbation at one or both ends of the system. We have analyzed these quite striking effects as they are manifested in the computed electrostatic potentials and local ionization energies on the tube surfaces and, in one instance, in a reorganization of the framework structure. These observations, and some implications, are presented and discussed
“Seat Belt Sweepstakes” - An Incentive Program

As part of an overall effort to support the National Highway Traffic Safety Administrations's (NHTSA) national program to increase seat belt usage, General Motors instituted an employee seat belt use incentive program at the General Motors Technical Center in Warren, Michigan. This program was responsible for raising seat belt use at the Tech Center from 36% to 70% during its 5 1/2 month duration. The program was patterned, in part, after research work done by Professor E. Scott Geller of the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University under a grant from the General Motors Research Laboratories and a program conducted by Berg Electronics (a DuPont subsidiary). The intent of the program was to provide sufficient positive incentive to employees to buckle up for an extended period of time, thereby establishing a seat belt use habit that will continue after the incentives are no longer offered. This program was different from most other efforts to increase seat belt use in that prizes were available to participating individuals if, and only if, overall seat belt use on the site achieved a predetermined level. This paper presents the methodology and results of that program.
Identification and characterization of a L-tyrosine decarboxylase in Methanocaldococcus jannaschii.

Abstract Methanofuran is the first coenzyme in the methanogenic pathway used by the archaeon Methanocaldococcus jannaschii , as well as other methanogens, to reduce CO 2 to methane. The details of the pathway for the biosynthesis of methanofuran and the responsible genes have yet to be established. A clear structural element in all known methanofurans is tyramine, likely produced by the decarboxylation of l -tyrosine. We show here that the mfnA gene at M. jannaschii locus MJ0050 encodes a thermostable pyridoxal phosphate-dependent l -tyrosine decarboxylase that specifically produces tyramine. Homologs of this gene are widely distributed among euryarchaea but are not specifically related to known bacterial or plant tyrosine decarboxylases.
The Unjustified Judicial Creation of Class Certification Merits Trials in Securities Fraud Actions

The class action device is vital to deterring securities fraud and remedying its victims. Nonetheless, the federal courts have begun to convert the class certification process into a premature trial on the merits, thereby precluding victims of securities fraud from pursuing otherwise valid claims of financial wrongdoing. In particular, in a series of important decisions, the federal courts have required plaintiffs to prove the essential elements of their securities fraud claims at the preliminary class certification stage.This article demonstrates why this trend should end. The judicial creation of class certification merits trials in securities fraud cases is inconsistent with the federal securities laws and Supreme Court precedent. Moreover, as this article also shows, the judicial resolution of the merits of a securities fraud claim at the class certification threshold infringes on the Seventh Amendment right to trial by jury. Nor can class certification merits trials be excused by any legitimate policy concerns. The harm purportedly averted by such trials is illusory. The supposed risk that the threat of class certification and post-certification discovery costs will produce in terrorem settlements is unfounded and even illogical. Finally, this article concludes that the harm caused by class certification merits trials is substantial. This new procedure will over-deter the very type of private securities fraud claims that both supplement Securities and Exchange Commission enforcement actions and compensate victims for losses caused by securities fraud.
Detection of damper winding currents and the damping coefficient of a synchronous machine using a predictor corrector estimator

The authors propose a nonlinear estimator for detecting instantaneous state and determining up-to-date parameters of a synchronous generator. Simulation results illustrate the performance of this predictor corrector estimator (PCE) with different weighting matrices. With a proper choice of the weighting matrix Q, the PCE gives excellent results, converging globally. >
Have You Spoken With Your Paraeducator Today

The current educational climate emphasizes the inclusion of students with disabilities in general education. This results in an increased effort to enhance and maintain an inclusive environment. Co...
Time-Distance Helioseismology with f Modes as a Method for Measurement of Near-Surface Flows

Travel times measured for the f mode have been used to study flows near the solar surface in conjunction with simultaneous measurements of the magnetic field. Previous flow measurements of Doppler surface rotation, small magnetic feature rotation, supergranular pattern rotation, and surface meridional circulation have been confirmed. In addition, the flow in supergranules due to Coriolis forces has been measured. The spatial and temporal power spectra for a six-day observing sequence have been measured.
Effect of repeated isokinetic concentric and eccentric contractions on quadriceps muscle fatigue

Using the Kin-Com (Chattecx Corp, Hixson, TN) isokinetic dynamometer, 20 university females (age = 21.6 ± 1.4 years, wt = 61.73 ± 7.3 kg, ht = 162.81 ± 5.8 cm) performed concentric and eccentric isokinetic contractions at nine different velocities. At each velocity, subjects performed two submaximal and one maximal concentric and eccentric familiarization contractions. Three alternating concentric and eccentric maximal contractions followed a 1-min rest between the familiarization and maximal contractions. One minute of rest was also provided between the test contractions and the next set of familiarization contractions. The peak torque (PT) and average torque (AT) for the first and ninth set of contractions were analyzed with separate repeated measures ANOVAs. The results demonstrated no significant differences for the interaction or for the test main effect for either PT or AT. This suggests that with appropriate rest intervals, as many as 96 submaximal and maximal concentric and eccentric contractions can be performed without fatigue affecting assessment of PT and AT.
Modifications to blackbody radiation in a one-dimensional photonic bandgap structure

Summary form only given, as follows. The Planck blackbody law is usually derived in a large cavity limit in which the density of electromagnetic modes is treated in the free space continuum limit. However, in a one-dimensional (lD) photonic bandgap (PBG) material, the normal mode structure is manifestly different from in free space, and hence the form of the blackbody spectrum can be radically altered. We calculate the modified blackbody frequency and wave-number spectrum in the simple example of 1D thin-film GaAs/AlGaAs PBG structure. Specifically, we compute the cavity-modified blackbody distribution as a function of frequency and wavevector and compare it to the experiment. The total power and the Lambertian angular distribution can be drastically modified depending on the location of the bulk blackbody spectral peak with respect to the photonic bandgap. In Sample A, the spectral peak is aligned with the photonic band edge, leading to mission enhancement. In Sample B, the blackbody peak is centered at the bandgap leading to suppression of emission. In both cases the angular distribution differs from the Lambertian expected for a bulk thermal emitter.
PTSD Substance abuse comorbidity and treatment utilization

The present study investigates the prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among a sample of treatment-seeking substance abusers and examines the relationship between PTSD comorbidity and rates of inpatient substance abuse treatment. Eighty-four patients (48 male and 36 female) admitted for detoxification at a private hospital were administered self-report measures of lifetime stressor events, PTSD symptomatology, and prior treatment history. Approximately one quarter of the sample was found to present with significant PTSD symptomatology. Women were more likely than men to have been physically and sexually abused, and women reported experiencing a greater number of traumatic events. Consequently, more women than men were classified as having possible PTSD. With respect to inpatient substance abuse treatment admission rates, the PTSD group reported a greater number of hospitalizations than their non-PTSD counterparts. Implications of these findings for routine trauma screening and more effective treatment for substance abusers with concomitant PTSD are highlighted.
Deporting Radicals, Deporting La Migra: The Hayat Case in Lodi

This article will examine the nature of deportation as a logic that upholds state sovereignty and constructions of citizenship through technologies of exclusion, discipline, and `removal'. Regulations of immigrant populations by the state rely on notions of unwanted bodies that contaminate or threaten the national body politic and so must be cleansed from national territory. My research focuses on the impact of post-9/11 policies of surveillance, detention, and deportation of Muslim immigrants that were part of the US state's War on Terror and were bolstered by ideas of protecting `national security' from `internal' and `external' terrorist threats. The paranoia and nativism accompanying this siege mentality overlooks the ways in which deportation is, on the one hand, an economic policy of the neoliberal state that disciplines labor and depresses wages, and on the other, is also a political instrument for repressing movements that oppose US polices at home and abroad.
Differences in Response Initiation and Behavioral Flexibility Between Adolescent and Adult Rats

Adolescence is a period of increased vulnerability to psychiatric illnesses such as addiction, mood disorders, and schizophrenia. Rats provide a useful animal model for investigating the differences in behavior and biology between adults and adolescents that stem from ongoing brain development. We developed the Cued Response Inhibition Task, or CRIT, to assess response inhibition and initiation processes by measuring the ability of rodents to withhold a response during an inhibitory cue and then to respond promptly after cue termination. We found no difference between adult and adolescent rats in the ability to appropriately inhibit a response during cue presentation. Adolescents, however, were unable to initiate a response as quickly as adults after cue termination. Further, we observed that this difference in responding was abolished after adolescent rats aged to adulthood with no additional training. In a separate experiment, adult and adolescent rats were trained in CRIT and then trained in another protocol in which the response inhibitory cue from CRIT was used as a Pavlovian cue predictive of reward. Adolescents demonstrated more reward-seeking behavior during the previously inhibitory Pavlovian cue than adults, indicative of greater behavioral flexibility. Taken together, these data suggest that, compared with adults, adolescent rats (a) are less able to initiate a response after response inhibition, (b) equally inhibit behavioral responses, and (c) are more adept at flexibly switching behavioral patterns. Furthermore, this study characterizes a task that is well suited for future pharmacological and electrophysiological investigations for assessing neuronal processing differences between adolescents and adults.
The synthesis and reagent properties of tetrakis-(3,5-dichlorophenyl)borate

Abstract Cesium tetrakis(3,5-dichlorophenyl)borate shows similar precipitation and gravimetric properties as tetrakis(m-chlorophenyl)- and tetrakis(p-chlorophenyl)borates. Its overall stability is worse than those of the chloro-substituted borates but it is more stable toward acid attack.
ED-17GENETIC MODULATION OF NEUROCOGNITIVE FUNCTION AND OUTCOMES IN GLIOMA PATIENTS

BACKGROUND: Genetic polymorphisms associated with neurocognitive function (NCF) in glioma patients have not been studied. Determining such markers may help identify patients at increased risk for treatment related neurotoxicity, suggesting possible targets for treatment, and facilitate development of new neuroprotective therapies to improve the patients' quality of life. METHODS: To identify the effect of genetic variants on NCF, we compared the genotype frequencies of 10,967 SNPs mapping to 580 genes from five pathways: Inflammation, DNA repair, Metabolism, Neurocognitive, and TERT, in 233 newly diagnosed glioma patients with neurocognitive evaluations before surgical resection. Five neuropsychological tests that measured memory (Hopkins Verbal Learning Test – Revised [HVLT-R]), processing speed (Trail Making Test A [TMTA]), and executive function (Controlled Oral Word Association [COWA], and Trail Making Test B (TMTB]) were examined. RESULTS: Nineteen SNPs were associated with TMTA, 12 SNPs with TMTB, two SNPs (MCPH1 rs6999296 and TANK rs270952) were associated with COWA, and one SNP (RAD51L1 rs9323505) was associated with HVLT-R Total Recall (FDR ≤ 0.05). For TMTA, the strongest signals were in IRS1 rs6725330 in the inflammation pathway (P = 2.59E-10; P adjusted = 1.21E-06), ERCC4 rs1573638 in DNA repair pathway (P = 3.46E-07; P adjusted = 0.00036), and ABCC1 rs8187858 in metabolism pathway (P = 6.63E-07; P adjusted = 0.0001). For TMTB, the strongest associations were in NOS1 rs11611788 in inflammation pathway (P = 1.85E-8; P adjusted = 8.63E-05), POLE rs5744761 in DNA repair pathway (P = 6.06E-07; P adjusted = 0.0013), and IL16 rs1912124 in inflammation pathway (P = 6.06E-07; P adjusted = 0.0014). Joint effect analysis found significant gene-dosage effects for TMTA (P trend = 9.46e -16) and TMTB (P trend =6.69e-15). CONCLUSION: Genetic polymorphisms in the Inflammation, DNA repair, Metabolism, Neurocognitive, and TERT pathways are associated with neurocognitive impairment in glioma patients and may affect clinical outcomes.
Synthesis and characterization of a novel ‘3F’-based fluorinated monomer for fluorine-containing polyimides

Abstract A novel ‘3F’ fluorinated diamine monomer based on trifluoroacetophenone was synthesized via a straightforward, high yielding two-step procedure. Trifluoroacetophenone was reacted with 4-nitrophenyl phenyl ether to yield the 3F-dinitro compound, which was subsequently reduced to afford the fluorinated diamine, 1,1-bis[4-(4-aminophenoxy)phenyl]-1-phenyl-2,2,2-trifluoroethane (3FEDAM). New amorphous and semicrystalline polyimides based on 3FEDAM were prepared and characterized by differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis and wide-angle X-ray scattering (WAXS). In particular, the 3FEDAM-pyromellitic anhydride-phthalic anhydride material exhibited a glass transition temperature of 308°C and a melting temperature of 476°C, which are quite similar to the values reported for ‘6F’-based systems. The semicrystalline nature was confirmed by WAXS analysis, and is consistent with the excellent solvent resistance observed for these polyimides.
The influence of microstructure on fatigue crack propagation in polyoxymethylene

An analysis of the influence of crystalline microstructure on fatigue crack propagation in poly-oxymethylene is presented. A series of test specimens containing a variety of diverse micro-structures was prepared through controlled thermal treatments of plaques from four different lots of polyoxymethylene. Extensive characterization of the crystalline microstructure was carried out in order to permit a direct comparison between the fatigue behaviour and crystalline microstructure. The degree of crystallinity and tie molecule density were both found to have a significant affect on fatigue crack propagation rate while average spherulite size did not appear to influence fatigue behaviour. Additionally, the fatigue fracture surfaces of many of the test specimens were examined. Three distinct surface topographies were observed and found to correlate with different stages of crack growth. In the region near the end of fatigue crack propagation, closely spaced surface markings that resemble fatigue striations were observed.
197 NALOXONE INDUCED GUT ISCHEMIA DURING RESUSCITATION OF EXPERIMENTAL NEONATAL SEPTIC SHOCK

197 NALOXONE INDUCED GUT ISCHEMIA DURING RESUSCITATION OF EXPERIMENTAL NEONATAL SEPTIC SHOCK
Rare earth element scavenging in seawater

Abstract Examinations of rare earth element (REE) adsorption in seawater, using a variety of surface-types, indicated that, for most surfaces, light rare earth elements (LREEs) are preferentially adsorbed compared to the heavy rare earths (HREEs). Exceptions to this behavior were observed only for silica phases (glass surfaces, acid-cleaned diatomaceous earth, and synthetic SiO2). The affinity of the rare earths for surfaces can be strongly affected by thin organic coatings. Glass surfaces which acquired an organic coating through immersion in Tampa Bay exhibited adsorptive behavior typical of organic-rich, rather than glass, surfaces. Models of rare earth distributions between seawater and carboxylate-rich surfaces indicate that scavenging processes which involve such surfaces should exhibit a strong dependence on pH and carbonate complexation. Scavenging models involving carboxylate surfaces produce relative REE abundance patterns in good general agreement with observed shale-normalized REE abundances in seawater. Scavenging by carboxylate-rich surfaces should produce HREE enrichments in seawater relative to the LREEs and may produce enrichments of lanthanum relative to its immediate trivalent neighbors. Due to the origin of distribution coefficients as a difference between REE solution complexation (which increases strongly with atomic number) and surface complexation (which apparently also increases with atomic number) the relative solution abundance patterns of the REEs produced by scavenging reactions can be quite complex.
Does residential location matter to the employment of TANF recipients? Evidence from a dynamic discrete choice model with unobserved effects☆

Abstract We study the factors affecting the employment probability of temporary assistance for needy families (TANF) recipients using recent quarterly panel data from Atlanta, Georgia. A central focus of our study is to determine whether the TANF recipient's proximity to job opportunity and the availability of childcare affect her probability of full-time employment. Both static and dynamic models of employment choice are estimated that control for unobserved individual effects. We estimate models separately for a sub-sample of TANF recipients living in public housing, whose residential locations can be considered exogenously determined. We find substantial evidence that individual and family characteristics (such as, the education of the recipient and the number of children and adults in her family) are important determinants of the employment probability of welfare recipients. On the other hand, location-related variables are found to be relatively unimportant.
Ignition and flame quenching of quiescent fuel mists

A model is proposed for the ignition of quiescent multidroplet fuel mists which assumes that chemical reaction rates are infinitely fast, and that the sole criterion for successful ignition is the generation, by the spark, of an adequate concentration of fuel vapour in the ignition zone. From analysis of the relevant heat transfer and evaporation processes involved, ex­pressions are derived for the prediction of quenching distance and minimum ignition energy. Support for the model is demonstrated by a close level of agreement between theoretical predictions of minimum ignition energy and the corresponding experimental values obtained using a specially designed ignition apparatus in which ignition energies are measured for several different fuels, over wide ranges of pressure, mixture composition and mean drop size. The results show that both quenching distance and mini­mum ignition energy are strongly dependent on droplet size, and are also dependent, but to a lesser extent, on air density, equivalence ratio and fuel volatility. An expression is derived to indicate the range of drop sizes over which the proposed model is valid.
Determination of high-frequency current distribution using EMTP-based transmission line models with resulting radiated electromagnetic fields

Application of BPL technologies to existing overhead high-voltage power lines would benefit greatly from improved simulation tools capable of predicting performance - such as the electromagnetic fields radiated from such lines. Existing EMTP-based frequency-dependent line models are attractive since their parameters are derived from physical design dimensions which are easily obtained. However, to calculate the radiated electromagnetic fields, detailed current distributions need to be determined. This paper presents a method of using EMTP line models to determine the current distribution on the lines, as well as a technique for using these current distributions to determine the radiated electromagnetic fields.
Transverse/sigmoid sinus dural arteriovenous fistulas presenting as pulsatile tinnitus.

Objective/Hypothesis: Transverse/sigmoid sinus dural arteriovenous fistula (TSDAVF) is a diagnostically elusive entity that is critical for the otologist to account for, when confronted by pulsatile tinnitus in the face of normal otoscopy. Left untreated, TSDAVF may result in catastrophic outcome. We have previously proposed a grading system specifically for TSDAVF based on venous restrictive disease. Our objective was to assess the validity of this grading system for clinical severity and therapeutic outcome. Methods: Through a retrospective review of 41 patients with TSDAVF, we evaluated clinical presentation, diagnostic evaluation, therapy, and outcome. Patients were classified into four grades based on the severity of venous restrictive disease as determined by superselective angiography. Our treatment algorithm combined compression therapy, transarterial embolization, and for more severe grades, surgery. Results: Pulsatile tinnitus was the chief complaint of all the patients in this series, and of 90% of all cases of TSDAVF treated at our institution. While angiography remains the gold standard, magnetic resonance imaging/magnetic resonance arteriography is far superior to computed tomography scanning in detecting dural arteriouvenous fistulas. As normal venous outflow gives way to aberrant cortical venous drainage in higher grades, there is a dramatically increased risk for adverse consequences with therapeutic intervention. Using our treatment algorithm, 82% of patients achieved clinical resolution of symptoms. Half of these patients had complete angiographic obliteration of their TSDAVF. Conclusions: The TSDAVF-specific grading system for the severity of venous restrictive disease is reflective of clinical presentation, fundamental in planning treatment, and predictive of therapeutic outcome.
Selective Induction of Na,K-ATPaseα3 Subunit mRNA Abundance in Cardiac Myocytes by Retinoic Acid

Retinoic acid (RA) is a high affinity ligand for a nuclear receptor which regulates transcription in target cells. Specific effects of RA on cardiac development and myocardial cell hypertrophy have been demonstrated; however, little information exists concerning RA-mediated regulation of cardiac genes. This study was initiated to investigate whether RA regulates Na,K-ATPase subunit gene expression in primary cultures of neonatal rat cardiac myocytes. Northern blot analyses demonstrated that NA, K-ATPaseα3 subunit mRNA content was stimulated three-fold by RA. The effect of RA onα3 subunit gene expression was selective as RA treatment had no effect on either Na,K-ATPaseα1,α2 orβ1 subunit mRNAs. A stimulatory effect of RA on Na,K-ATPaseα3 gene transcription was not evident in either transient transfection or nuclear run-on studies, suggesting that augmentation ofα3 mRNA content by RA was due to a post-transcriptional mechanism. Finally, RA diminished the magnitude of the thyroid hormone (T3)-mediated increase in Na,K-ATPaseβ1 subunit mRNA, while RA had no effect on the stimulation ofα3 mRNA content by T3.
Modeling 4-D Seismic Responses In a Gas Reservoir

It is well known that differential pressure change will induce time-lapse seismic attribute changes by acting on both the rock matrix and the pore fluids. It would be very helpful for seismic amplitude interpretation if we can separate the time lapse seismic attribute changes induced by rock matrix and pore fluids respectively. Based on petrophysical data and laboratory rock physics data from a North Sea gas reservoir, this study showed that the overall time-lapse seismic responses can be approximated by the arithmetical sum of time-lapse seismic property change induced by dry rock matrix and by pore fluids respectively. Identify and separation of the differential pressure effects could bring a new insight regarding discrimination between pore pressure and saturation changes.
Calcium Sensitising Agents in Heart Failure

Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a common cardiovascular disorder that is characterised, in part, by a decreased cardiac output reserve. Accordingly, there is ongoing interest in the role of positive inotropic agents (e.g. adrenergic agonists and phosphodiesterase type III inhibitors, which mediate their cardiovascular effects via a cyclic adenosine monophosphate-dependent mechanism) in the treatment of CHF. However, enthusiasm for positive inotropic therapy in CHF has been dampened by the results of clinical trials, which have shown that these drugs are associated with an increased risk of mortality. Calcium sensitising agents are a heterogeneous group of positive inotropic agents that mediate their cardiovascular actions (at least in part) by increasing the sensitivity of the contractile elements to calcium. Increased sensitivity to calcium may be related to changes in calcium binding to troponin C, or to direct effects on the actin-myosin complex. In addition, the inhibition of phosphodiesterase type III may contribute to the positive inotropic action of calcium sensitising agents. Five agents with calcium sensitising properties (pimobendan, levosimendan, MCI-154, EMD-53998 and CGP-48506) have been studied as possible therapies for CHF. All of these agents have demonstrated a positive inotropic action in isolated cardiac tissue and in animal models of CHF. In clinical trials, pimobendan, the most extensively studied of these drugs, was well tolerated and was associated with improved exercise tolerance during the first 6 months of therapy; however, it was also associated with a nonsignificant trend towards increased mortality. Because many of the calcium sensitising agents also inhibit phosphodiesterase type III activity, the long term safety of these agents is uncertain. Large-scale survival trials are required to determine the long term safety and efficacy of these agents before their role in the treatment of CHF can be defined.
Identifying the time of step change in the mean of autocorrelated processes

Control charts are used to detect changes in a process. Once a change is detected, knowledge of the change point would simplify the search for and identification of the special cause. Consequently, having an estimate of the process change point following a control chart signal would be useful to process analysts. Change-point methods for the uncorrelated process have been studied extensively in the literature; however, less attention has been given to change-point methods for autocorrelated processes. Autocorrelation is common in practice and is often modeled via the class of autoregressive moving average (ARMA) models. In this article, a maximum likelihood estimator for the time of step change in the mean of covariance-stationary processes that fall within the general ARMA framework is developed. The estimator is intended to be used as an “add-on” following a signal from a phase II control chart. Considering first-order pure and mixed ARMA processes, Monte Carlo simulation is used to evaluate the perform...
Model-Based Assessment of Two Variable CAM Timing Strategies for HCCI Engines: Recompression vs. Rebreathing

The paper discusses the development and application of a single-cylinder HCCI engine model within the framework of a 1-D engine simulation software (GT-Power® ). The HCCI combustion model includes a predictive burn model based on the in-cylinder conditions, along with methods to estimate in-cylinder NOx production and ringing intensity. The validation of the model was done by comparing simulation results with available experimental data, highlighting the comparison between two different HCCI variable cam timing strategies (recompression and rebreathing). A comparative study of the two valve strategies was carried out with the validated model and the entire operational range of the strategies was compared and analyzed for the constraints that limit further load extension. Recompression was found to be more efficient than rebreathing in the low load operating region. However, the rebreathing strategy was found to span a wider operational range compared to recompression at all speeds.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Efficient synthesis of exo-N-carbamoyl nucleosides: application to the synthesis of phosphoramidate prodrugs.

An efficient protection protocol for the 6-exo-amino group of purine nucleosides with various chloroformates was developed utilizing N-methylimidazole (NMI). The reaction of an exo-N6-group of adenosine analogue 1 with alkyl/and aryl chloroformates under optimized conditions provided the N6-carbamoyl adenosines (2a–j) in good to excellent yields. The reaction of N6-Cbz-protected nucleosides (5a–c) with phenyl phosphoryl chloride (7) using t-BuMgCl followed by catalytic hydrogenation afforded the corresponding phosphoramidate pronucleotides (8a–c) in excellent yield.
PGI12: ESTIMATING POTENTIAL UTILIZATION OF ESOMEPRAZOLE BY ASSESSING GERD SYMPTOM CONTROL ON TRADITIONAL PPI'S

OBJECTIVES: Approximately one-half of the American population experiences weekly symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). With the hypothesis that not all patients are completely symptom free on proton pump inhibitor's (PPI's), the pharmaceutical industry is formulating more potent anti-secretory drug therapies. In November of 2000 the FDA approved esomeprazole for the treatment of Erosive Esophagitis (EE). Esomeprazole is a more potent inhibitor of gastrin and gastric acid, with clinical studies demonstrating quicker symptom relief with more complete 24-hour acid control. If complete acid control translates into better long-term symptom relief for chronic symptomatic GERD it may play a vital role in refractory GERD patients. The purpose of this cross-sectional survey study is to estimate the percentage of patients actively treated with PPI's (omeprazole and lansoprazole), who perceive control of their symptoms. The Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS), a validated rating scale to assess GERD patients' quality of life, was utilized. The study hypothesis is that 80% of the patients will perceive their symptom control is very good or excellent. METHODS: An unblinded self-administered questionnaire, including the GSRS, was mailed to 300 patients who were currently receiving GERD maintenance therapy with a PPI. Patients were asked questions regarding the duration and severity of symptoms, dosing of medication, contributing lifestyle factors and debilitation of disease. RESULTS: 153 questionnaires were returned fully completed, a 51% response rate. The surveyed patients were 60 ± 14 years with 89% of respondents being male. Of the PPI's prescribed 86% and 14% were lansoprazole and omeprazole respectively. The median total score of the GSRS was 19, representing mild to moderate patient symptomatology. CONCLUSIONS: 66% of respondents treated with currently prescribed PPI's had very good or excellent symptom control, however the need exists for a more effective PPI for adequate symptom control in 34% of patients.
High-resolution field-cycling NMR studies of a DNA octamer as a probe of phosphodiester dynamics and comparison with computer simulation.

Phosphorus-spin longitudinal relaxation rates of the DNA duplex octamer [d(GGAATTCC)]2 have been measured from 0.1 to 17.6 T by means of conventional and new field-cycling NMR methods. The high-resolution field-cycling method is identical to a conventional relaxation experiment, except that after preparation the sample is moved pneumatically from its usual position at the center of the high-resolution magnet upward to a lower field above its normal position and then returned to the center for readout after it has relaxed for the programmed relaxation delay at the low field. This is the first measurement of all longitudinal relaxation rates R1 of a nuclear species in a macromolecule over virtually the entire accessible magnetic field range. For detailed analysis, three magnetic field regions can be delineated: (i) dipolar relaxation dominates at fields below 2 T, (ii) chemical shift anisotropy (CSA) relaxation is roughly constant from 2 to 6 T, and (iii) a square-law increasing dependence is seen at field...
Value ascribed to objects: multivariate elucidation of a conceptual structure☆

Abstract The study asks if there is a consistent mental conception used to evaluate the affective meaning of objects and if the content of this conception can be related to two components of a conceptual framework in value theory based on the concepts of inherent and instrumental value. Forty-one subjects responded to three research instruments based on the same 16 test objects: pair comparisons with a nine-point similarity/dissimilarity scale, a semantic instrument of 25 value terms, and assessment of like or dislike for each object. Analysis subjected the matrix of similarity data obtained for each individual to cluster analysis resulting in a dendrogram for each considered to represent that individual's interpretation of the relationships among the kinds of value held for the 16 objects. Individual dendrograms were compared to each other using an objective criterion based on proximity and location of objects within the dendrogram structure. This produced a matrix of comparisons used as the data matrix for principal component analysis which located the forty-one subjects as points within a component space. Data from the two semantic instruments were used to interpret the patterns of the dendrograms of the cluster analysis and scatter diagrams of the principal component analysis. Results indicated a group structure composed of two principal value criteria which concurred with the two components of C. I. Lewis' conceptual framework. The concept of inherent value (the ability of an object to provide intrinsic satisfaction directly) was associated with a criterion of liking or disliking an object. The concept of instrumental value (the ability of an object to provide intrinsic satisfaction through providing a service) was associated with normative and utilitarian evaluations.
Self-reported reasons for breastfeeding cessation among low-income women enrolled in a peer counseling breastfeeding support program.

Background:Peer counseling programs have demonstrated efficacy in improving breastfeeding rates in the low-income population, but there is little research concerning why women enrolled in these programs ultimately discontinue breastfeeding.Objective:This study aimed to describe the self-reported reasons for discontinuing breastfeeding among women who are receiving peer counseling support by participant characteristics and timing of discontinuation.Methods:This study is a secondary analysis of data collected from 7942 participants who discontinued breastfeeding while enrolled in a peer counseling breastfeeding support program from 2005 to 2011. Reasons for discontinuing breastfeeding were assessed in relation to participant characteristics and weaning age using chi-square analyses and Kruskall-Wallis analyses of variance.Results:The most common reasons reported for discontinuing breastfeeding were mother’s preference (39%) and low milk supply (21%), although reasons differed by age of infant weaning (P < ....
Effects of Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate on Mixed Liposome Solubilization

It is well-known that harshness and skin irritation are related to surfactant−skin lipid interactions. Delipidization of the stratum corneum is caused by surfactant penetration into extracellular lipid bilayers, disrupting the lipid microstructure and, thereby, impairing skin-barrier properties. The main objective of this work was to investigate the mechanisms of interactions of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) with liposomes as model membranes. Vesicle-to-micelle structural transitions that occur as a result of the interaction of SDS with liposomes (1:1 phosphatidylcholine/phosphatidic acid) were studied by monitoring the optical density, surface tension, and monomer concentration. Two inflections appeared on the turbidity curve, which allowed the determination of surfactant concentrations corresponding to the onset and completion of the solubilization of liposomes. The effective surfactant-to-lipid mole ratios in the surfactant-saturated lipid bilayers (Rsat) and in the lipid-saturated mixed micelle (Rsol) ...
NMDA as well as non-NMDA receptors mediate the neurotransmission of inspiratory drive to phrenic motoneurons in the adult rat

The neurotransmission of bulbospinal respiratory drive is believed to involve primarily non-NMDA receptors located in the phrenic motonucleus (PMN). This conclusion is based on studies carried out mainly on in vitro brainstem-spinal cord preparations of the neonatal rat. The present study was undertaken to investigate the transmitter/receptor mechanisms in the PMN which are involved in the neurotransmission of inspiratory drive, using an in vivo adult rat model. Microinjections of glutamate, NMDA and AMPA into the PMN elicited an increase in the phrenic nerve (PN) background discharge. These injections did not alter significantly the frequency of spontaneously occurring PN bursts confirming that mechanisms responsible for respiratory rhythm reside in the supraspinal structures. Microinjections of an NMDA receptor blocker (AP-7), in concentrations that did not alter the responses to a non-NMDA receptor agonist (AMPA), reduced the PN amplitude significantly. Similarly, microinjections of a potent non-NMDA receptor blocker (NBQX), in concentrations that did not alter responses to NMDA, reduced the PN amplitude significantly. Sequential microinjections, within an interval of 5 min, of AP-7 and NBQX into the PMN, resulted in a dramatic reduction in the spontaneous PN bursts. The reduction of PN amplitude started immediately after the microinjection of AP-7 and NBQX, either alone or in combination, and reached a maximum within 5-10 min. These results indicate that, unlike in the neonatal rat, both NMDA and non-NMDA receptors located in the PMN play a significant role in the neurotransmission of the inspiratory drive in the adult rat.
Formation of alkanethiol and alkanedithiol monolayers on GaAs(001).

The formation of alkanethiol (H−(CH2)n−SH, n = 8−18) and 1,8-octanedithiol (HS−(CH2)8−SH) monolayer films on n-type GaAs(001) has been systematically studied. We observed a nonlinear dependence of the film thickness on molecular length, which is drastically different from monolayer films of the same molecules on metals. For 8 ≤ n ≤ 14, the films are only 3−4.5 A thick, significantly smaller than the corresponding molecular length. For n = 16 and 18, the measured film thicknesses were 9 and 11 A, respectively, consistent with molecules orienting with a tilt angle of ∼60° from the surface normal. Unlike the alkanethiols, the thickness of the 1,8-octanedithiol monolayer is almost the same as its molecular length, indicating that dithiol molecules orient vertically with only one thiol end group bound to the GaAs surface. Additional support for this conclusion comes from the fact that X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy of the 1,8-octanedithiol monolayer clearly resolves two types of S atoms in the monolayer: th...
Analyst coverage, syndicate structure, and loan contracts

This paper examines the effect of information intermediaries, specifically financial analysts, on the non-price terms and syndicate structure of bank loans. We find that loans to firms with higher analyst coverage have significantly less intensive covenant restrictions, a lower likelihood of requiring collateral and a lower likelihood of having performance-pricing provisions. Furthermore, our results document a negative relation between analyst coverage and loan maturity, implying that banks become more information-sensitive when lending to firms with large analyst coverage. We also find evidence that lenders tend to form less concentrated syndicate when the number of analysts increases.
Finite element simulations of compositionally graded InGaN solar cells

Abstract The solar power conversion efficiency of compositionally graded In x Ga 1− x N solar cells was simulated using a finite element approach. Incorporating a compositionally graded region on the InGaN side of a p-GaN/n-In x Ga 1− x N heterojunction removes a barrier for hole transport into GaN and increases the cell efficiency. The design also avoids many of the problems found to date in homojunction cells as no p-type high-In content region is required. Simulations predict 28.9% efficiency for a p-GaN/n-In x Ga 1− x N/n-In 0.5 Ga 0.5 N/p-Si/n-Si tandem structure using realistic material parameters. The thickness and doping concentration of the graded region was found to substantially affect the performance of the cells.
Poly-N-Acetylglucosamine Is Not a Major Component of the Extracellular Matrix in Biofilms Formed by icaADBC-Positive Staphylococcus lugdunensis Isolates

Staphylococcus lugdunensis is a pathogen of heightened virulence that causes infections resembling those caused by Staphylococcus aureus rather than those caused by its coagulase-negative staphylococcal counterparts. Many types of S. lugdunensis infection, including native valve endocarditis, prosthetic joint infection, and intravascular catheter-related infection, are associated with biofilm etiology. Poly-N-acetylglucosamine (PNAG), a polysaccharide synthesized by products of the icaADBC locus, is a common mechanism of intercellular adhesion in staphylococcal biofilms. Here we report the characterization of ica homologues and the in vitro biofilm formation properties of a collection of S. lugdunensis clinical isolates. Isolates formed biofilms in microtiter wells to various degrees. Biofilm formation by most isolates was enhanced with glucose but diminished by sodium chloride or ethanol. icaADBC homologues were found in all S. lugdunensis isolates tested, although the locus organization differed substantially from that of other staphylococcal ica loci. icaR was not detected in S. lugdunensis, but a novel open reading frame with putative glycosyl hydrolase function is located upstream of the ica locus. icaADBC sequence heterogeneity did not explain the variability in biofilm formation among isolates. PNAG was not detected in S. lugdunensis extracts by immunoblotting with an anti-deacetylated PNAG antibody or wheat germ agglutinin. Confocal microscopy with fluorescently labeled wheat germ agglutinin showed a paucity of PNAG in S. lugdunensis biofilms, but abundant extracellular protein was visualized with SYPRO Ruby staining. Biofilms were resistant to detachment by dispersin B and sodium metaperiodate but were susceptible to detachment by proteases. Despite the genetic presence of icaADBC homologues in S. lugdunensis isolates, PNAG is not a major component of the extracellular matrix of in vitro biofilms formed by this species. Our data suggest that the S. lugdunensis biofilm matrix contains proteinaceous factors.
Survey of organic molten salt phases for gas chromatography

Abstract The organic molten salts tetra- n- hexylammonium benzoate, tetra- n- heptylammonium chloride, 1-methyl-3-ethylimidazolium chloride, ethylpyridinium bromide, tri- n- butylbenzylphosphonium chloride, tetra- n- butylammonium tetrafluoroborate, and sodium isovalerate are evaluated as stationary phases for gas chromatography. They all behave as stable isotropic liquids over a temperature range of at least 50°C, and in most cases, greater than 100°C. As a series these salts provide a range of liquid phases spanning temperatures from room temperature to ca . 290°C. The principal solute-retaining forces are orientation and proton donor interactions, the magnitude of which depends on the identity of the salt. The physical and chemical properties of the organic molten salts are compatible with their use in gas chromatography to separate a wide range of sample types including alcohols, halocarbon compounds, substituted benzene and naphthalene derivatives, and essential oils. Calcium nitrate tetrahydrate is also evaluated as an example of a hydrated melt. Excessive retention of polar solutes and poor peak shape make its general use impractical.
The dominant firm in health insurance

Blue Cross, the largest insurer of hospital costs in most parts of the U.S., has a varying market share by area. This paper examines the factors affecting the market share of Blue Cross by state. The regression analysis finds that the Blue Cross discount has an important impact upon market structure and that certain regulatory factors have had an impact while others, such as the premium tax, have not. Hypotheses related to the effects of consumer demand and the structure of the industry on Blue Cross market share are also tested and largely rejected.