cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A method for measuring cerebral glucose metabolism in vivo by 13C-NMR spectroscopy.

Current methods for estimating the rate of cerebral glucose utilization (CMRglc) typically measure metabolic activity for 40 min or longer subsequent to administration of [13C]glucose, 2-[14C]deoxyglucose, or 2-[18F]deoxyglucose. We report preliminary findings on estimating CMRglc for a period of 15 min by use of 2-[6-13C]deoxyglucose. After a 24-hr fast, rats were anesthetized, infused with [1-13C]glucose for 50 min, and injected with 2-[6-13C]deoxyglucose (500 mg/kg). During the subsequent 12.95 min the estimated value of CMRglc was 0.6 ± 0.4 micromol/min/g (mean ± SD, N = 7), in agreement with values reported for anesthetized rats studied with the 2-[14C]deoxyglucose method and other 13C-NMR methods that measure CMRglc. In rats injected with bicuculline methiodide (a known stimulant of CMRglc), CMRglc increased by more than 75% during 12.95 min following injection of bicuculline (Wilcoxon signed rank test, P = 0.042, N = 8). Magn Reson Med 48:1063–1067, 2002. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Stability in Competition

After the work of the late Professor F. Y. Edgeworth one may doubt that anything further can be said on the theory of competition among a small number of entrepreneurs. However, one important feature of actual business seems until recently to have escaped scrutiny. This is the fact that of all the purchasers of a commodity, some buy from one seller, some from another, in spite of moderate differences of price. If the purveyor of an article gradually increases his price while his rivals keep theirs fixed, the diminution in volume of his sales will in general take place continuously rather than in the abrupt way which has tacitly been assumed.
Confirmation of standard error analysis techniques applied to EXAFS using simulations

Proper application of error analysis techniques remains uncommon in most EXAFS analyses. Consequently, many researchers in the community remain distrustful of parameter-error estimates. Here, we demonstrate the accuracy of conventional methods through r-space fits to simulated data. Error estimates are determined as a function of r by averaging many scan simulations in r-space. The statistical-χ2 value can then be calculated. Since χ2 corresponds to the degrees of freedom in a fit, we check Stern's rule for the number of independent data points in an EXAFS spectra. Finally, we apply these simple methods to real data from a Cu foil, highlighting the overwhelming role of systematic errors in theoretical backscattering functions and pointing to the ultimate power of the EXAFS technique if such errors could be removed.
Depression and diabetes: factors associated with major depression at five-year follow-up.

Background : In patients with diabetes, comorbid depression has been shown to be associated with increased medical symptom burden, additional functional impairment, poor self-care, increased risk of macrovascular and microvascular complications, higher medical costs, and greater mortality. Objective : The authors performed a longitudinal observation to assess the pathway between diabetes complications and subsequent depression. Method In a prospective study of primary-care patients with diabetes (N = 2,759), the authors determined, from automated data and chart review, whether macrovascular or microvascular events or coronary, cerebrovascular, or peripheral vascular procedures during follow-up were associated with meeting criteria for major depression at 5-year follow-up. Results : After controlling for baseline severity of depression symptoms and history of depression, having one-or-more coronary procedures during follow-up, and baseline severity of diabetes symptoms were strong predictors of having major depression at 5-year follow-up. Conclusion : The risk of major depression among persons with diabetes is increased by previous depression history, baseline diabetes symptoms, and having had cardiovascular procedures.
Caesium and strontium diffusion through sodium montmorillonite at elevated temperature

SUMMARY Counter ionic migration rates of dilute Cs+ and Sr2+ against sodium in a Na-montmorillonite gel are measured using a radially perfused diffusion cell. Enhanced or surface diffusion for caesium is observed both at ambient and elevated temperature. To quantify these surface diffusivities the ion-exchange properties of the diffusing species are required. Thus, exchange isotherms for caesium against sodium on montmorillonite at 22 and 90°C are given for 10−1, 10−2, and 10−3M background NaCl concentrations. Caesium counterion surface diffusivities at 22 and 90°C are 2.2*10−6 and 8.0 * 10−6 cm2 s−1, respectively. These values are found to be essentially independent of background ionic strength over the range 10−3 to 10−1m NaCl. Experimental evidence of enhanced transport through Na-montmorillonite for the divalent cation Sr2+ is also confirmed with a surface diffusivity of 2 * 10−6 cm2 s−1 at 22°C and in 10−1m NaCl.
Fluid mixing in particulate fluidized beds

Abstract A hydrodynamic mathematical model is developed for particulate batch fluidization. Longitudinal dispersion in such systems is predicted analytically. It is governed by the particle wake: its size and shedding rate. The wake size is evaluated from photographs and the shedding rate is calculated from boundary layer flow. The predicted Peclet numbers compare very well with experimental data in the flow range of 40
How to manage the evolution of a computerized information system

Existing computerized fiscal and patient information systems do not seem well suited for the mental health field. To design its own system, an institution would do better to form an information system staff rather than to use an outside software house, because doing it externally is less responsive, slower, and, for some tasks, simply impossible. The in-house staff must be selected to be competent generalists, at ease with computer technology. Working in close and friendly cooperation with various user groups, the systems evolve out of small beginnings. As the users gain working experience with early versions of a system, they are able to refine their goals, with the result that the final system meets their needs well, even though it may seem to be different from what was originally expected.
A Statistical Approach to Estimating Costs of Propagating Hatchery Rainbow Trout

Abstract A statistical cost function is estimated and used to calculate the marginal cost and average total cost of production of rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss in Colorado. The marginal cash costs in the short run to produce another rainbow trout caught by anglers from the existing hatchery system is US$0.61, which is less than three different estimates of the marginal recreational benefit of harvesting another rainbow trout. However, the average total cash costs and long-run economic cost per catchable-size rainbow trout harvested by a recreational angler are estimated as $1.85 and $2.69, respectively. These costs are considerably higher than the $1.10 average benefit of a rainbow trout caught.
Lévy-statistics for partially equilibrated systems

We examine deviations from Boltzmann-Gibbs statistics for a certain class of partially equilibrated systems of finite size. We find that such systems are characterized by the Levy distribution whose non-extensivity parameter is related to the number of internally equilibrated subsystems and to correlations among them. This concept is applicable to relativistic heavy ion collisions.
The effect of salinity on survival, bioenergetics and predation risk in the mud crabs Panopeus simpsoni and Eurypanopeus depressus

The effect of salinity on survival, bioenergetics and predation risk was studied in two common mud crabs in the Gulf of Mexico, Eurypanopeus depressus and Panopeus simpsoni. Eurypanopeus survived better at low salinities (the 28-day LC50 of E. depressus was 0.19 PSU compared with 6.97 PSU for P. simpsoni). While low salinity increased energy expenditure and reduced food consumption and absorption, resulting in lower scope for growth, identical responses to salinity occurred in both species. Both species also had similar salinity-dependent patterns of hyper-osmoregulation. Because these physiological mechanisms could not explain differences between the two species in salinity tolerance, we explored the effect of salinity on competition for refugia. Eurypanopeus had higher resource holding potential for refugia, especially at low salinity. As a consequence it had lower predation risk to blue crabs in laboratory experiments. The higher tolerance by E. depressus for low salinities, and greater resource holding potential for refugia may explain why it has a more euryhaline distribution than P. simpsoni.
Aggregation of surface mine soil by interaction between VAM fungi and lignin degradation products of lespedeza.

The external mycelium of a vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizal (VAM) fungus was effective in aggregating a sandy loam minesoil. The polysaccharide nature of the soil binding agent on hyphal surfaces and on the surfaces of sand particles in contact with the hyphae within the aggregate was demonstrated with the periodic acid-Schiff reagent staining reaction. A possible stabilizing mechanism for macroaggregates was proposed that involves a coupling reaction between glucosamines in the hyphal walls of the fungus with phenolic compounds released during lignin degradation of sericea lespedeza root tissue.
Effects of exposure to smoking on the microbial flora of children and their parents

This review presents our studies that investigated the effects of exposure to direct and indirect smoking on the colonization with pathogenic bacteria and organisms that interfere with their growth. The flora of smokers (S) contained less aerobic and anaerobic organisms with interfering capability and more potential pathogens as compared with non-smokers (N-S). The high number of pathogens and the low number of interfering organisms found in the nasopharynx of smokers revert to normal levels after complete cessation of smoking. A high recovery rate of potential pathogens and low number of interfering organisms were observed in otitis media prone (OMP) children. This was not related to their parents smoking habits. The flora of S parents contains more potential pathogens that are similar to the one recovered from their OMP children, and less interfering organisms as compared to N-S parents. Parents that smoked were more often colonized by potential pathogens than parents that did not smoke. The flora of healthy children of S parents contained high number of potential pathogens similar to the one found in their parents and OMP children. Concordance with pathogens in the parent was high among the OMP children of S parents but this was not observed in OMP children of N-S. A higher recovery rate of potential pathogenic organisms was observed in OMP children of both S and N-S parents, as compared to healthy children whose parents were N-S. Since S parents harbor more potential pathogens and less interfering organisms they may serve as a source of pathogens that can colonize and/or infect their children. These studies illustrate the adverse effects of direct and indirect exposure to smoking on colonization with potential pathogens.
Middle aortic coarctation.

Background Middle aortic coarctation (MAC), a variant of middle aortic syndrome, is a rare entity with only ∼200 cases described in the literature. It classically presents with early onset and refractory hypertension, abdominal angina, and lower extremity claudication. Although endovascular repair has been described for focal stenoses, open bypass remains the standard to restore abdominal inflow and correct renovascular hypertension. Methods We describe an unusually late presentation of MAC in a 52-year-old man from El Salvador with refractory hypertension since age 8 requiring 5 antihypertensive medications. He presented with acute chest pain and severe hypertension. He denied mesenteric and peripheral vascular symptoms. Distal pulses were not palpable. Creatinine was 1.9 mg/dL (peak 4.0 mg/dL). Computed tomography angiography demonstrated coarctation of the descending thoracic aorta with extensive collateralization. Results After control of blood pressure, the patient's singular anatomy dictated a descending thoracic aorta–infrarenal aortic bypass using a 16-mm woven Hemashield tube graft via a left fifth-interspace anterolateral thoracotomy and left retroperitoneal incision. The graft was tunneled through the posterior left hemidiaphragm. Patient had excellent recovery, with decrease in antihypertensive medications (5 to 2), restoration of all distal pulses, and no neurologic complications. Postoperative creatinine was 0.9 mg/dL. Conclusions MACs are rare entities with presentation usually in youth or adolescence, comprising only 0.5–2% of all aortic coarctation cases. Etiologies include congenital, acquired, inflammatory, and infectious causes. If untreated, most patients do not survive past the fourth decade because of the sequelae of renovascular hypertension including myocardial infarction, heart failure, intracranial hemorrhage, and aortic rupture. Depending on technical considerations, open surgical bypass remains the standard repair for MAC.
Multi-objective hybrid PSO using µ-fuzzy dominance

This paper describes a PSO-Nelder Mead Simplex hybrid multi-objective optimization algorithm based on a numerical metric called µ -fuzzy dominance. Within each iteration of this approach, in addition to the position and velocity update of each particle using PSO, the k-means algorithm is applied to divide the population into smaller sized clusters. The Nelder-Mead simplex algorithm is used separately within each cluster for added local search. The proposed algorithm is shown to perform better than MOPSO on several test problems as well as for the optimization of a genetic model for flowering time control in Arabidopsis. Adding the local search achieves faster convergence, an important feature in computationally intensive optimization of gene networks.
Failure of the Quasimonochromatic Approximation for Ultrashort Pulse Propagation in a Dispersive, Attenuative Medium

The dynamical evolution of an ultrashort pulse, whose initial temporal envelope is infinitely smooth with compact support, is considered as it propagates through a temporally dispersive, attenuative medium characterized by two resonance lines. As the propagation distance increases, the accuracy of the popular group velocity description decreases monotonically, whereas the accuracy of the mathematically well-defined asymptotic description and its derivative energy velocity description increase.
Comparison of sedimentation rates measured by paleomagnetic and the ionium methods of age determination

Abstract Rates of sedimentation based on 230 Th measurements for 14 deep sea cores are compared with those derived from magnetic reversal studies on the same cores. The results are completely compatible. In some cases 231 Pa and 14 C dates are also available; again the agreement is satisfactory. The average rate of accumulation of CaCO 3 -free sediment based on our results is about 2 meters/million years. Rates below one half meter per million years have not been found. This conclusion is at variance with that of Goldberg and his coworkers who find that rates less than one half meter per million years are rather common in major portions of the deep ocean. This discrepancy is shown to be largely the result of interpretation of the 230 Th data. When ‘best’ fit lines are substituted for the ‘steepest fits’ of Goldberg and his coworkers the discrepancy between the two sets of data largely disappears.
The changing personality of U.S.–japanese joint ventures: A value chain mapping paradigm

This article maps in the “value chain X time” space the changing personality of joint ventures with Japanese firms. The key findings are that (1) newly created joint ventures between U.S. and Japanese firms have shifted away from Japan-bound, marketing / distribution-specific activities to manufacturing and especially research and development activities; (2) newly created joint ventures tend to be more narrowly focused along the value chain and generally more global in scope; (3) divorce in joint ventures tend to mirror findings under (1) and occur almost invariably in downstream activities; and (4) finally, newly created joint ventures tend to be concentrated in industrial sectors in which Japan has established its world leadership.
Rattlesnake envenomation in 12 New World camelids.

Background: Rattlesnake envenomation of New World camelids is a seasonal problem with often dramatic clinical signs. Hypothesis: The purpose of this study was to identify the clinical signs, laboratory results, treatment methods, and outcome for rattlesnake envenomation in New World camelids. Animals: Medical records from 1988 to 2004 were searched for New World camelids presented for rattlesnake bite or clinical signs suspected to be related to recent envenomation. Twelve records were identified. Methods: From these records a retrospective study was performed. Results: Nine camelids presented for acute disease (2/9 arrived dead), whereas 3 presented for subacute onset of disease. Swelling of the lips, head and neck, tachypnea, dyspnea, tachycardia, and lethargy were the most common presenting signs. Snake bites were most commonly located to the muzzle (10/12). Common complete blood count (CBC) and serum biochemical abnormalities were neutrophilia, lymphopenia, increased muscle enzyme activity, hypoalbuminemia, hyperglycemia, hypokalemia, and thrombocytopenia. Treatment included combinations of intravenous fluid therapy, antimicrobials, anti-inflammatory drugs, tetanus prophylaxis, tracheostomy, supplemental oxygen, antivenom, total parenteral nutrition, and nursing care. Five of the 10 animals with acute onset of clinical signs survived, and all animals with subacute presentation died. The mortality rate for New World camelids with severe local tissue reaction and systemic signs of envenomation was 58%. Clinical Importance: New World camelids that sustain rattlesnake envenomation and severe facial swelling precluding prehension and mastication have a guarded prognosis for survival. Aggressive treatment is recommended to optimize the chances of survival. Animals with less severe local tissue reaction and absence of systemic signs have a better prognosis.
Quantitative characterization of the lipid encapsulation of quantum dots for biomedical applications.

The water solubilization of nanoparticles is key for many applications in biomedicine. Despite the importance of surface functionalization, progress has been largely empirical and very few systematic studies have been performed. Here we report on the water solubilization of QDs using lipid encapsulation. We systematically evaluate the monodispersity, zeta potential, stability, and quantum yield (QY) for QDs encapsulated with single and double acyl chain lipids, pegylated double acyl chain lipids, and single alkyl chain surfactant molecules with charged head groups. We show that charged surfactants and pegylated lipids are important to obtain monodisperse suspensions with high yield and excellent long-term stability.
Handling cross site scripting attacks using cache check to reduce webpage rendering time with elimination of sanitization and filtering in light weight mobile web browser

In this paper we propose a new approach to prevent and detect potential cross-site scripting attacks. Our method called Buffer Based Cache Check, will utilize both the server-side as well as the client-side to detect and prevent XSS attacks and will require modification of both in order to function correctly. With Cache Check, instead of the server supplying a complete whitelist of all the known trusted scripts to the mobile browser every time a page is requested, the server will instead store a cache that contains a validated “trusted” instance of the last time the page was rendered that can be checked against the requested page for inconsistencies. We believe that with our proposed method that rendering times in mobile browsers will be significantly reduced as part of the checking is done via the server, and fewer checking within the mobile browser which is slower than the server. With our method the entire checking process isn't dumped onto the mobile browser and as a result the mobile browser should be able to render pages faster as it is only checking for “untrusted” content whereas with other approaches, every single line of code is checked by the mobile browser, which increases rendering times.
3722 Endoscopic ultrasound predictors of long term survival in esophageal carcinoma.

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) has been proven to be the most accurate staging modality for esophageal cancer (EsoCa). However, the ability of EUS to predict outcomes or prognosis is unclear.We prospectively followed patients who had EUS for EsoCa staging to determine if EUS can predict survival in EsoCa. Methods: 204 consecutive patients undergoing EUS for EsoCa staging were studied over a 66 month (mo.) period. Survival data was determined in 196 patients. Median survival was calculated for each T-stage and N-stage as determined by EUS. Kaplan Meier survival curves were generated for each stage and Cox regression was used to test for statistically significant differences in survival adjusting for age, sex, and histology (adeno CA vs. squamous cell CA). The differences in survival in T stage and N stage were adjusted for N stage and T stage respectively. Results: The incidence of each T and N stage was Tis (7), T1 (24), T2 (47), T3 (93), T4(28), Tx (5) and N0 (53), N1 (145), Nx (6). Median follow-up after EUS exam was 35.4 mos. ranging from 12 to 66 mos. Median survival in mos. for each stage was Tis (26.7), T1 (21.6), T2 (19.5), T3 (15.6), T4 (6.5) and N0 (25.0), N1 (13.5). Overall there was a significant difference in the ability of EUS determined T stage to predict survival (p=0.001), with patients having higher EUS T stages succumbing sooner. This difference remained significant after adjusting for age, sex, and histology (P=.035). Patients with local disease (Tis, T1, T2) determined by EUS live significantly longer when compared with patients with advanced disease (T3, T4) (HR=2.0, 95%CI 1.34-2.95). Patients with EUS N stage 0 had significantly longer survival than patients with EUS N stage 1 [25.0 mos. vs. 13.5 mos.] (p
Foster children who decide to be called by a new first name: links to extreme defences, identity and attachment:

This case-based study describes three foster children in the US, who decided to be called by a new first name at a time when hopes of reunification were fading and parental rights were being terminated. Two children decided on their own to be called by a different first name. The third child accepted the idea, which was suggested by her foster mother. Children embraced the name changes because they felt lost and wanted to fit in. For two children, the decision represented an extreme defence. With the name change, the children were able to ward off extreme anxiety and pain set in train by the impending decision about termination, but they also cut themselves off prematurely from their identities and from powerful attachment feelings. Encouraged in therapy to talk about feelings and memories associated with her real name, the third child was better able to integrate past and present, and to move forward. A sudden decision on the part of a foster child to be called by a new first name should alert others to ...
Fusion-related technology transfer at the Argonne National Laboratory

The passage of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 set the stage for the implementation of technology transfer at the national laboratories. The major technology transfer mechanism promoted was the publication of papers in the open literature. The basic idea was that taxpayer-funded research should be made available to all taxpayers. It should be noted that the primary mission of the laboratories was, and still is, to meet the Department of Energy`s (DOE) research goals and objectives. Depending upon the nature of the research, technology transfer may or may not be applicable.
Image-guided optical spectroscopy in diagnosis of osteoarthritis by combining spectral and spatial a-priori information

A multi-modality imaging approach and instrument that integrate optical imaging system and near-infrared spectroscopy into an x-ray tomosynthesis setup have been employed to perform a clinical study of image-guided spectroscopy on osteoarthritis (OA) in the finger joints. The multiwavelength spectroscopy of the joints using x-ray-guided spatial constraints provides 3D images of oxygen saturation and water content with high resolution and improved quantitative capability. Based on the recovered quantitative results from 18 healthy volunteers and 22 patients, we observed that oxygen saturation and water content were significant discriminators for differentiation of healthy joints from diseased ones. The recovered images appear to show that the OA joints have high water values and decreased oxygen saturation.
A brief, critical review of research on impaired control over alcohol use and suggestions for future studies.

Impaired control, defined as "a breakdown of an intention to limit consumption" (Heather et al. J Stud Alcohol 1993; 54, 701), has historically been considered an important aspect of addiction. Despite recognition of its importance to addiction and potential value as an early indicator of problem drinking risk, we argue that impaired control over alcohol use has not received sufficient research attention. In an effort to spark further research, the present critical review offers brief discussion of the current state of knowledge regarding impaired control and avenues for future research. Three main research areas are addressed: (i) epidemiology; (ii) measurement issues; and (iii) potential mechanisms underlying relationships between impaired control and subsequent problem drinking. Measurement issues include complexities involved in self-report assessment of impaired control, development and validation of human and animal laboratory models, and impaired control's relationship to other constructs (i.e., impulsivity and other difficulties with self-control; symptoms of dependence such as craving). We discuss briefly 2 potential mechanisms that may help to explain why some drinkers experience impaired control while others do not: neurobiological dysfunction and family history/genetics. Suggestions for future research are focused on ways in which the impaired control construct may enhance prediction of who might be at particular risk of subsequent problem drinking and to facilitate intervention to reduce problem alcohol use. Language: en
Complexity and algorithms for convex network optimization and other nonlinear problems

Nonlinear optimization algorithms are rarely discussed from a complexity point of view. Even the concept of solving nonlinear problems on digital computers is not well defined. The focus here is on a complexity approach for designing and analyzing algorithms for nonlinear optimization problems providing optimal solutions with prespecified accuracy in the solution space. We delineate the complexity status of convex problems over network constraints, dual of flow constraints, dual of multi-commodity, constraints defined by a submodular rank function (a generalized allocation problem), tree networks, diagonal dominant matrices, and nonlinear Knapsack problem's constraint. All these problems, except for the latter in integers, have polynomial time algorithms which may be viewed within a unifying framework of a proximity-scaling technique or a threshold technique. The complexity of many of these algorithms is furthermore best possible in that it matches lower bounds on the complexity of the respective problems. In general nonseparable optimization problems are shown to be considerably more difficult than separable problems. We compare the complexity of continuous versus discrete nonlinear problems and list some major open problems in the area of nonlinear optimization.
Thermodynamics for proton dissociations from aqueous l -histidine at temperatures from 278.15 K to 393.15 K and at the pressure 0.35 MPa: apparent molar volumes and apparent molar heat capacities of the protonated cationic, neutral zwitterionic, and deprotonated anionic forms☆

Abstract Apparent molar volumes Vφand apparent molar heat capacitiesCp, φ were determined for individual solutions of aqueous l -histidine, of aqueous l -histidine with equimolal HCl, and of aqueous l -histidine with equimolal NaOH at molalities m = (0.015 to 0.66 )mol · kg − 1, at temperatures T = (278.15 to 393.15 ) K, and at the pressure p = 0.35 MPa. Apparent molar volumes were generated from density measurements obtained with a vibrating-tube densimeter. Apparent molar heat capacities were generated from heat capacity measurements with a twin fixed-cell, power-compensation, differential-output, temperature-scanning calorimeter. These results were then fitted by regression to empirical equations to describe the (Vφ,m , T) and (Cp, φ, m, T) surfaces for each of the three systems. These regression equations were then used to calculate the changes in partial molar volumeΔrVm and partial molar heat capacityΔrCp, m as functions of m and T for both the first and second proton dissociation reactions for protonated aqueous l -histidine. The changes in enthalpy ΔrHmand entropyΔrSm and the acid dissociation molality quotientQa were then obtained as functions of m and T for each proton dissociation reaction by integration, using our (ΔrCp, m, m,T ) results and literature values for ΔrHmandQa . Our results illustrate the unique thermodynamic properties of the cationic, neutral zwitterionic, and anionic forms of l -histidine in aqueous solution.
Vigorous physical activity, mental health, perceived stress, and socializing among college students.

Abstract Purpose. To examine cross-sectional associations between vigorous physical activity, mental health, perceived stress, and socializing among 4-year college students. Design. A national cross-sectional sample of 4-year colleges in the United States. Setting. Ninety-four 4-year colleges in the United States. Subjects. A total of 14,804 undergraduate students. Measures. Self-report vigorous physical activity, perceived stress (measured using the Cohen Perceived Stress Scale), mental health (measured using the SF-36), and socializing (assessed using self-report number of friends and hours spent socializing). Analysis. Logistic regression models accounting for clustering within schools were estimated to examine the association between vigorous physical activity, mental health, perceived stress, and socializing. Adjusted models included high school vigorous physical activity and sociodemographic characteristics. Results. Students who met vigorous physical activity recommendations were less likely to rep...
Hybrid layered video encoding and caching for resource constrained environments

Video playback on a mobile device is a resource-intensive task. Since the battery life of a mobile device decreases with time, it is desirable to have a video representation which adapts dynamically to the available battery life during the playback process. A novel Hybrid Layered Video (HLV) encoding scheme is proposed, which comprises of content-aware, multi-layer encoding of texture and a generative sketch-based representation of the object outlines. Different combinations of the texture- and sketch-based representations are shown to result in distinct video states, each with a characteristic power consumption profile. Further, a smart content-aware caching scheme is proposed which is suitable for low-latency dissemination of HLV over the Internet. The proposed HLV representation, combined with the proposed caching scheme, is shown to be effective for video playback and dissemination on power-constrained mobile devices.
The formation of the Hubble sequence of disc galaxies: the effects of early viscous evolution

ABSTRA C T We investigate a model of disc galaxies whereby viscous evolution of the gaseous disc drives material inwards to form a protobulge. We start from the standard picture of disc formation through the settling of gas into a dark halo potential well, with the disc initially coming into centrifugal equilibrium with detailed conservation of angular momentum. We derive generic analytic solutions for the disc‐halo system after adiabatic compression of the dark halo, with free choice of the input virialized dark halo density profile and of the specific angular momentum distribution. We derive limits on the final density profile of the halo in the central regions. Subsequent viscous evolution of the disc is modelled by a variation of the specific angular momentum distribution of the disc, providing analytic solutions to the final disc structure. The assumption that the viscous evolution time-scale and the star formation time-scale are similar leads to predictions of the properties of the stellar components. Focusing on small ‘exponential’ bulges, i.e., ones that may be formed through a disc instability, we investigate the relationship between the assumed initial conditions, such as halo ‘formation’, or assembly, redshift zf, spin parameter l, baryonic fraction F, and final disc properties such as global star formation time-scale, gas fraction, and bulge-to-disc ratio. We find that the present properties of discs, such as the scalelength, are compatible with a higher initial formation redshift if the redistribution by viscous evolution is included than if it is ignored. We also quantify the dependence of final disc properties on the ratio F/l , thus including the possibility that the baryonic fraction varies from galaxy to galaxy, as perhaps may be inferred from the observations.
Fracture of unsaturated polyester and the limitation of layered silicates

In this work, we explain why the incorporation of organically modified nano-clay into unsaturated polyester resins, unlike epoxy, does not improve their fracture toughness despite continuing aggressive research activities based on this approach. The mechanism behind this phenomenon is explored by studying the effect of mixing method on improving the degree of exfoliation in simple nanocomposites and its final effect on fracture behaviour. Rheometry and X-ray diffraction show that the two mixing methods lead to different degrees of exfoliation. The mechanical properties primarily depend on clay content and are less sensitive to degree of exfoliation. In the case of toughness, there is no observable effect of degree of exfoliation. This despite the increased fracture surface area evident in SEM images of the sample with finer exfoliation as compared with those of the sample with a lower degree of exfoliation. Dispersed silicate layers influence the toughness by increasing the tortuosity of the crack path locally while micron scale intercalated tactoids can result in crack deflection. Both of these mechanisms depend on localized plasticity for significant energy dissipation. Since unsaturated polyester has very low localized plasticity below ∼90°C, one cannot significantly improve its room temperature toughness by manipulating the micro-/nanostructure of the nanocomposite the nanocomposite without incorporating another material. This new understanding of the fracture behavior of unsaturated polyesters and their nanocomposites allows for the development of more complex toughened systems. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 55:1303–1309, 2015. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Clinical signs of cerebellar dysfunction in schizophrenia, alcoholism, and their comorbidity.

Abstract Abnormalities of cerebellar structure and function, long recognized as a hallmark of chronic alcohol abuse, have also occasionally been noted in patients with schizophrenia. We used a four-point rating scale to assess clinical signs of cerebellar dysfunction in men meeting DSM-IV criteria for schizophrenia ( N =34) and alcohol dependence ( N =15) as well as normal control subjects ( N =28). Compared to controls, alcoholics had impaired ratings of gait ataxia and instability of stance with eyes closed, and schizophrenics had impaired ratings of stance with eyes closed. The incidence of dysdiadochokinesia was greater in schizophrenics, but not alcoholics, than controls. The incidence of gait and stance abnormalities was higher in both patient groups relative to controls: within the schizophrenic group, 50–70% of those with positive signs for gait or stance impairment were comorbid for alcoholism, while only 25% of those with positive signs for dysdiadochokinesia were comorbid for alcoholism. The presence of dysdiadochokinesia in the schizophrenic group suggests cerebellar dysfunction that is independent of the effects of alcohol. By contrast, clinical signs of cerebellar dysfunction of gait and stance in patients with schizophrenia may be secondary to the effects of alcohol on the cerebellum.
Clinical Implications of the Molecular Basis of Familial Hypercholesterolemia and Other Inherited Dyslipidemias

In this issue of Circulation , van der Graaf and colleagues1 studied 1430 children, aged 4 to 18 years, who were referred to an academic pediatric lipid clinic in the Netherlands because of dyslipidemia from July 1989 to January 2008. The objective was to determine what proportion of those with the phenotype of autosomal dominant hypercholesterolemia (ADH) had mutations in the genes encoding the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR), apolipoprotein B (APOB), and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin 9. Article see p 1167 Inclusion criteria for ADH included a low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) level >95th percentile for age and sex and an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern of hypercholesterolemia, defined as at least 1 biological parent on treatment for hypercholesterolemia and a family history of hypercholesterolemia and cardiovascular disease (CVD).1 Exclusion criteria included children with secondary causes of hypercholesterolemia, a body mass index cut-off at the 75th percentile for age and sex, those referred through the national cascade screening program, and those from families with a known molecular diagnosis. Of the 269 children who remained after applying the exclusion criteria, 255 (95%) carried a functional mutation (LDLR 95%; APOB 5%). No mutations in proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin 9 were detected. The authors concluded that in the vast majority of children with the ADH phenotype, a causative mutation can be identified, and that most of the large-effect genes underlying ADH are known. This result differed from several other reports that found widely different mutation detection rates that varied from 20% to 90%2,–,6 and were likely due to different use of inclusion and exclusion criteria and the more extensive molecular dissection employed in this study. What is the implication of the results of this study for clinicians? For pediatricians and family practitioners, it must be appreciated that the …
An efficient algorithm for parametric fault simulation of monolithic IC's

An efficient methodology for performing fault simulation experiments as part of an IC failure diagnosis system is described. The methodology uses regression models that relate IC performance directly to process disturbances inherent in all IC fabrication processes. An efficient algorithm for establishing the structure of such models based on data obtained from coupled process and circuit simulators is developed. It selects a minimum number of significant input parameters and automatically establishes an optimum order polynomial regression model. Moreover. the regression models obtained contain information about the structure of the dependence of IC performances on the process disturbances, which can be coded in a dependency tree for each IC performance and used directly for diagnostic purposes. The algorithm belongs to the class of artificial neural network approaches and has been implemented in a program called MULREG (multilayer regression). Two examples of analyzing MULREG are given. >
Clinical trials in cardiology: pinnacle or inflection point?

Controlled clinical trials conduct the research that completes the causal argument between a treatment and a disease’s control. Yet, this pinnacle of clinical research is itself afflicted. Chronic problems with recruitment failure vitiate the potency of our research efforts. In addition, the collision of end-point multiplicity (the drive to measure multiple end points) with the requirement of statistical parsimony (ie, the need to reduce the number of interpretable end points to control the overall type I error) induces a core inefficiency in clinical trial productivity by reducing the number of endpoints findings that are generalizable to the population at large. Unless clinical trialists engage these problems with vigor and imagination, our pinnacle may be nothing more than an inflection point leading to decline.
MICROBIAL DEGRADATION OF PESTICIDES

Abstract : Microbial degradation of various organochlorine, organophosphorus and carbamate pesticides by aquatic and soil microorganisms was studied. Bacteria, fungi, and an alga (Cylindrospermum sp.) metabolized DDT to water-soluble products. DDT, DDA, and 2-chlorosuccinic acid were not detected; however, 1,1-dichloro-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)ethane, 1,1-dichloro-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)ethylene, DDD, DDE, DDM, DBH, DBP and PCPA were detected. The degradation of DDT metabolites yielded: DDM, DBH and DBP from DDA; DBH and DBP from DDM; and DBH from DBP. Microorganisms were found capable of converting diphenylmethane, and analog of DDT, to 1,1,1',1'-tetraphenyldimethyl ether. Pseudomonas putida converted bis(P-chlorophenyl)acetic acid to bis(P-chlorophenyl)methane, 4,4'-dichlorobenzhydrol and 4,4'-dichlorobenzophenone by cometabolism. The organism also dehalogenated 4,4'-dichlorobenzhydrol and 4,4'-dichlorobenzophenone and converted diphenylmethane to benzhydrol and benzophenone as well as cleaving diphenylmethane and benzhydrol to phenylacetic and phenylglycolic acids, respectively. Arthrobacter sp. metabolized PCPA to 4-chloro-3-hydroxyphenyl-acetic acid. DDT and its breakdown products had no significant effect on respiration of microbial communities or algal productivity. The biodegradability of DDT analogs was related to their chemical structure.
Total hip arthroplasty with cement in patients who have rheumatoid arthritis a minimum ten-year follow-up study

One hundred and six consecutive total hip arthroplasties with cement were performed by one surgeon, at least ten years before the time of the present clinical and radiographic review, in seventy-five patients who had adult-onset rheumatoid arthritis. Two patients (three hips) were lost to follow-up. Seven (7 per cent) of the remaining 103 hips were revised. The revisions were performed because of infection (three hips), dislocation (two hips), or aseptic loosening (two hips). Of the ninety-eight hips that were not lost to follow-up or revised because of infection or dislocation, eight (8 per cent) had radiographic loosening of the acetabular component and two (2 per cent) had radiographic loosening of the femoral component. Although the prevalence of radiographic loosening of the acetabular component was four times greater than the prevalence of radiographic loosening of the femoral component, the prevalence of revision because of aseptic loosening of the acetabular component was identical to that for the femoral component (one component each). These results compared favorably with those of total hip arthroplasty with cement, performed by the same surgeon, for the treatment of other diagnoses. Loosening of the acetabular component was significantly associated with a younger age at the time of the index operation (p = 0.03) and with acetabular osteolysis (p = 0.0006). Of forty-eight hips in thirty-two patients who survived for at least ten years, 96 per cent (forty-six hips) were considered by the patients to have a satisfactory result. At the time of the latest follow-up, twenty-four (75 per cent) of the patients had no pain in the hip. Although eighteen patients (56 per cent) could walk without support at a minimum of ten years after the operation, we found that the functional results for patients who had rheumatoid arthritis were inferior to those observed for patients who had had a total hip arthroplasty with cement, performed by the same surgeon, for the treatment of other diagnoses.
Prosuming Identity: The Production and Consumption of Transableism on Transabled.org

Prosumption refers to the blurring of production and consumption. Although this has always been present (Ritzer, 2009), the contemporary era creates an environment in which prosumption can flourish...
Payer status is associated with the use of prophylactic inferior vena cava filter in high-risk trauma patients

Background It is controversial whether patients at high risk for pulmonary embolism (PE) should receive prophylactic inferior vena cava filters (IVC) filters. This lack of clarity creates the potential for variability and disparities in care. We hypothesized there would be differential use of prophylactic IVC filters for patients at high risk for PE on the basis of insurance status. Methods We performed a retrospective analysis using the National Trauma Databank (2002–2007). We included adult patients at high risk for PE (traumatic brain injury or spinal cord injury) and excluded patients with a diagnosis of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) or PE. Logistic regression was performed to control for confounders and a hierarchical mixed effects model was used to control for center. Results A prophylactic filter was placed in 3,331 (4.3%) patients in the study cohort. Patients without insurance had an IVC filter placed less often compared with those with any form of insurance (2.7% vs 4.9%, respectively). After adjusting for confounders, we found that patients without insurance were less likely to receive a prophylactic IVC filter, even when we controlled for center (OR 5.3, P Conclusion When guidelines lack clarity, unconscious bias has the potential to create a system with different levels of care based on socioeconomic disparities.
Prevalence and Predictors of Renal Functional Abnormalities of High Grade Vesicoureteral Reflux

Purpose: The association of vesicoureteral reflux, febrile urinary tract infections and renal parenchymal damage is well recognized. We determined the prevalence and predictors of renal functional abnormalities in children with high grade vesicoureteral reflux.Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records and dimercapto-succinic acid scans of 774 consecutive children with primary high grade vesicoureteral reflux (grade IV-V) seen at our institution between 1998 and 2011. For multivariate analysis we analyzed variables associated with renal functional abnormalities, such as presentation history, age, gender and reflux grade, in a logistic regression model.Results: Of the children 698 (90%) and 76 (10%) had grade IV and V reflux, respectively. Dimercapto-succinic acid scans revealed renal functional abnormalities in 291 children (37.6%), including 240 (34%) with grade IV and 51 (67%) with grade V reflux. Univariate analysis showed that age greater than 1 year (OR 2.95, p <0.001), gr...
Circuit simulation by hierarchical waveform relaxation

A circuit analysis method, the hierarchical waveform relaxation technique, that uses multilevel decomposition and relaxation techniques is presented. Sufficient conditions for the convergence of the process are discussed, and a dynamic circuit restructuring technique that uses the concept of sensitivity based subcircuit merging and repartitioning within the hierarchical framework to improve the robustness of the simulation algorithm as well as the speed of convergence is presented. The algorithm is implemented in the circuit simulation program PYRAMID, and test results are compared with those obtained by other methods of analysis. The comparison indicates that this method produces better results than had previously been possible for a large range of circuits of practical interest, particularly strongly coupled digital bipolar and FET circuits containing bidirectionality and feedback, and it is demonstrated that the relative improvement of the method scales with the size of the circuit. >