cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A constrained optimization approach to solving certain systems of convex equations

Abstract This research presents a new constrained optimization approach for solving systems of nonlinear equations. Particular advantages are realized when all of the equations are convex. For example, a global algorithm for finding the zero of a convex real-valued function of one variable is developed. If the algorithm terminates finitely, then either the algorithm has computed a zero or determined that none exists; if an infinite sequence is generated, either that sequence converges to a zero or again no zero exists. For solving n -dimensional convex equations, the constrained optimization algorithm has the capability of determining that the system of equations has no solution. Global convergence of the algorithm is established under weaker conditions than previously known and, in this case, the algorithm reduces to Newton’s method together with a constrained line search at each iteration. It is also shown how this approach has led to a new algorithm for solving the linear complementarity problem.
18F-FDG PET/CT oncologic imaging at extended injection-to-scan acquisition time intervals derived from a single-institution 18F-FDG-directed surgery experience: feasibility and quantification of 18F-FDG accumulation within 18F-FDG-avid lesions and background tissues

18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) is a well-established imaging modality for a wide variety of solid malignancies. Currently, only limited data exists regarding the utility of PET/CT imaging at very extended injection-to-scan acquisition times. The current retrospective data analysis assessed the feasibility and quantification of diagnostic 18F-FDG PET/CT oncologic imaging at extended injection-to-scan acquisition time intervals. 18F-FDG-avid lesions (not surgically manipulated or altered during 18F-FDG-directed surgery, and visualized both on preoperative and postoperative 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging) and corresponding background tissues were assessed for 18F-FDG accumulation on same-day preoperative and postoperative 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging. Multiple patient variables and 18F-FDG-avid lesion variables were examined. For the 32 18F-FDG-avid lesions making up the final 18F-FDG-avid lesion data set (from among 7 patients), the mean injection-to-scan times of the preoperative and postoperative 18F-FDG PET/CT scans were 73 (±3, 70-78) and 530 (±79, 413-739) minutes, respectively (P < 0.001). The preoperative and postoperative mean 18F-FDG-avid lesion SUVmax values were 7.7 (±4.0, 3.6-19.5) and 11.3 (±6.0, 4.1-29.2), respectively (P < 0.001). The preoperative and postoperative mean background SUVmax values were 2.3 (±0.6, 1.0-3.2) and 2.1 (±0.6, 1.0-3.3), respectively (P = 0.017). The preoperative and postoperative mean lesion-to-background SUVmax ratios were 3.7 (±2.3, 1.5-9.8) and 5.8 (±3.6, 1.6-16.2), respectively, (P < 0.001). 18F-FDG PET/CT oncologic imaging can be successfully performed at extended injection-to-scan acquisition time intervals of up to approximately 5 half-lives for 18F-FDG while maintaining good/adequate diagnostic image quality. The resultant increase in the 18F-FDG-avid lesion SUVmax values, decreased background SUVmax values, and increased lesion-to-background SUVmax ratios seen from preoperative to postoperative 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging have great potential for allowing for the integrated, real-time use of 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging in conjunction with 18F-FDG-directed interventional radiology biopsy and ablation procedures and 18F-FDG-directed surgical procedures, as well as have far-reaching impact on potentially re-shaping future thinking regarding the “most optimal” injection-to-scan acquisition time interval for all routine diagnostic 18F-FDG PET/CT oncologic imaging.
Effect of tamoxifen on bone fractures in older nursing home residents.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the association between tamoxifen (TAM) treatment and rate of bone fractures in older, nursing home residents. PARTICIPANTS: A total of 93,031 women, aged 65 years and older, whose data were part of the 1993 New York State MDS and for whom there was documentation of treatment with at least one medication. SETTING: New York State long-term care facilities. DESIGN: Cross-sectional study via secondary analysis of 1385 matched sets of residents. Each set included one resident who was receiving TAM treatment and up to four residents who were not. MEASUREMENTS: Measurements included age, ethnicity, TAM treatment, hormone replacement therapy, vision impairment, any bone fractures, and, specifically, hip fractures. RESULTS: During the 1.5-year period for which bone fractures are documented in the 1993 MDS, the fracture rates were: 7.62% in women not treated with TAM, 3.20% in women receiving 10 mg TAM daily, and 6.73% in women receiving 20 mg TAM daily. The odds ratio (OR) for bone fractures among women receiving 20 mg TAM daily compared with nontreated women was 0.916 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.720–1.164; P =.472), and was 0.312 (95% CI: 0.112–0.865; P =.025) for those receiving 10 mg daily. The rates of hip fracture were 4.98%, 2.40%, and 4.57% for controls and women receiving 10 mg and 20 mg TAM daily, respectively. Whereas the hip fracture rate for women receiving 20 mg daily was statistically similar to that of the controls (OR =.963; 95% CI: 0.718–1.291; P =.800), the difference between the controls and those receiving 10 mg daily approached significance (OR: 0.313; 95% CI: 0.096–1.018; P =.054). CONCLUSION: Although standard treatment of 20 mg TAM daily offers no apparent protection against bone fracture in older nursing home residents, a daily 10 mg dose seems to be protective. J Am Geriatr Soc 46:968–972, 1998.
Zero-point corrections and temperature dependence of HD spin-spin coupling constants of heavy metal hydride and dihydrogen complexes calculated by vibrational averaging.

Vibrational corrections (zero-point and temperature dependent) of the H−D spin−spin coupling constant JHD for six transition metal hydride and dihydrogen complexes have been computed from a vibrational average of JHD as a function of temperature. Effective (vibrationally averaged) H−D distances have also been determined. The very strong temperature dependence of JHD for one of the complexes, [Ir(dmpm)Cp*H2]2 + (dmpm = bis(dimethylphosphino)methane) can be modeled simply by the Boltzmann average of the zero-point vibrationally averaged JHD of two isomers. For this complex and four others, the vibrational corrections to JHD are shown to be highly significant and lead to improved agreement between theory and experiment in most cases. The zero-point vibrational correction is important for all complexes. Depending on the shape of the potential energy and J-coupling surfaces, for some of the complexes higher vibrationally excited states can also contribute to the vibrational corrections at temperatures above 0 ...
Wary shift or risky shift

The risky shift paradigm was taken into a real-world stiuation, i.e., the classroom. Thirty-five students were asked to decide what type of evaluation system they would prefer for grading purposes in their course. It was found that the individual-to-group decision produced a significant wary rather than a risky shift. The authors suggest that the real-world situation involving real risk may have been responsible for the wary shift. Further comments recommend caution in the confidence with which one might generalize risky-shift findings to the real world.
T-for-H substitution in methane: a hot-atom reaction with walden inversion?

Abstract Trajectory studies of the hot-atom reactions of tritium with methane have been made in which all six atoms were tracked. Abstraction of H by T is direct reaction, as expcted, but T-for-H substitution is a concerted process involving at least four atoms. These are indications that it may proceed with inversion of the methane structure.
Apoptosis-related proteins and proliferation markers in the orbitofrontal cortex in major depressive disorder.

Abstract Background In major depressive disorder (MDD), lowered neural activity and significant reductions of markers of cell resiliency to degeneration occur in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). It is still unclear whether changes in other relevant markers of cell vulnerability to degeneration and markers of cell proliferation are associated with MDD. Methods Levels of caspase 8 (C8), X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP), direct IAP binding protein with low pI (DIABLO), proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and density of cells immunoreactive (-IR) for proliferation marker Ki-67 were measured in postmortem samples of the left orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) of subjects with MDD, and psychiatrically-normal comparison subjects. Results There was significant increase in C8, a higher ratio of DIABLO to XIAP, lower packing density of Ki-67-IR cells, and an unexpected age-dependent increase in PCNA in subjects with MDD vs. controls. PCNA levels were significantly higher in MDD subjects unresponsive to antidepressants or untreated with antidepressants. The DIABLO/XIAP ratio was higher in MDD subjects without antidepressants than in comparison subjects. Limitations Qualitative nature of responsiveness assessments; definition of resistance to antidepressant treatment is still controversial; and unclear role of PCNA. Conclusions Markers of cell vulnerability to degeneration are increased and density of Ki67-positive cells is low MDD, but accompanied by normal XIAP levels. The results suggest increased vulnerability to cell pathology in depression that is insufficient to cause morphologically conspicuous cell death. Persistent but low-grade vulnerability to cell degeneration coexisting with reduced proliferation readiness may explain age-dependent reductions in neuronal densities in the OFC of depressed subjects.
The optimum approach to analysis of elastic continua

Abstract The optimization of structures requires many analyses. This provides the incentive to reasses analysis approaches and select one which insures that complex numerical analyses of structures are performed efficiently. This paper classifies the decisions of analysis which, in turn, classify analysis methods. By example and rationale it examines analysis alternatives and selects the more attractive ones for maximizing analysis accuracy per unit of analysis effort. In the process, it reviews some important analysis issues. New arguments are furnished on the question of the force versus the displacement method, coarse vs. refined models, and finite elements vs. finite differences. The paper identifies error control as the key issue. It indicates that lack of a theoretical basis for directly controlling undesirable errors makes published comparisons of methods and operators of questionable value. This lack insures that arguments for one alternative over another must often be less than rigorous. It is concluded that the optimum unmixed analysis approach uses an integral equation formulation, displacement behavior states, intersecting operators, low order extra degree articulation, and determinate error control.
Hybrid photonic signal processing for radio frequency signals

Photonics previously has been used in the all-analog and all-digital domain for processing of Radio Frequency (RF) Signals. This paper highlights recent work by the Riza group on a new hybrid analog-digital approach to RF signal processing and controls. Specifically, novels works will be described in the design of RF processing components such as fiberoptic attenuator, fiber-optic programmable delay lines, and optical transversal filters.
Tensile stress concentration and compressive failure in cemented granular material

Grain crushing and pore collapse are important micromechanical processes responsible for hydrostatic and shear-enhanced compactions in porous rocks. These processes initiate from extensile microcracks which emanate from grain contacts. Microstructural observations indicate that such extensile cracking is inhibited in the vicinity of cemented grain contacts. The finite element technique was used to simulate the tensile stress concentration and normal stiffness in a cemented aggregate. The detrital grains were assumed to be elastically identical spheres bonded by cement layers of finite thickness. The numerical simulations show that the maximum tensile stress concentration is located near the triple junction (among grain, cement and pore space), and its magnitude is significantly less than that for an uncemented system. The development of microcracking near a cemented contact is readily inhibited unless the applied stress exceeds a critical value which is at least an order of magnitude greater than that for the onset of Hertzian fracture.
ACE - adaptive courseware environment

Abstract The Adaptive Courseware Environment (ACE) is a WWW-based tutoring framework which combines methods of knowledge representation, instructional planning, and adaptive media generation to deliver individualized courseware via the WWW. ACE is based on a domain model of the subject matter, a pedagogical model on how to teach a curriculum, and learner modeling on different levels, e.g., preferences, interests, and knowledge. Based on these three components individualized web-content (HTML, Java, pictures) is generated and presented to the learners. Taking into account the interests and the knowledge of a learner ACE can adapt different aspects of the instructional process, e.g., adapting the curriculum by selection of content, adapting the presentation of contents by choosing appropriate media and combining them, adapting the teaching strategies for specific contents, annotating hyperlinks, and by recommending appropriate hyperlinks and contents. Currently three systems have been realized on the basis ...
Effect of moisture on the rate of solvent extraction of soybeans and cottonseed meats

While continuous extraction by percolation of flaked soybeans and cottonseed meats of different moisture contents by hexane and by trichloroethylene showed variations at the end of 60 minutes as great as 5.47% residual oil, the variations over the range of practical plant operation conditions are too small to be a significant factor. Moisture affects the rate of extraction of soybean flakes and cottonseed meat flakes by trichloroethylene less than the rate of extraction by hexane.
Nucleotide sequence of a growth-related mRNA encoding a member of the prolactin-growth hormone family

As part of the proliferative response to serum, mouse 3T3 cells produce a set of growth-related mRNAs identified by hybridization to cloned cDNAs. One of these mRNAs, which is about 1 kilobase long, appears within a few hours after stimulation of resting cells with serum or platelet-derived growth factor and reaches a high level during the transition from the G1 to the S phase of growth. This mRNA is translated in vitro into a protein of approximately 25 kilodaltons. The corresponding cloned cDNA of 791 base pairs has been sequenced; it contains a single open reading frame that encodes a protein of 224 amino acids with extensive sequence homology to mammalian prolactins. The initial 29-amino acid segment of the encoded protein resembles the signal sequences of prehormones. That the growth-related protein is not mouse prolactin is indicated by comparison of its predicted amino acid composition with that of mouse prolactin and by the distinct fragment patterns seen when restricted mouse DNA is probed with the cloned cDNA or rat prolactin cDNA. Therefore, the growth-related protein appears to be a new member of the prolactin-growth hormone family. Because of its relationship to prolactin and growth hormone and its association with cell proliferation, the protein has been called "proliferin."
Muscle activity in rapid multi-degree-of-freedom elbow movements: Solutions from a musculoskeletal model

The activity of certain muscles that cross the elbow joint complex (EJC) are affected by forearm position and forearm movement during elbow flexion/extension. To investigate whether these changes are based on the musculoskeletal geometry of the joint, a three-dimensional musculotendinoskeletal computer model of the EJC was used to estimate individual muscle activity in multi-degree-of-freedom (df) rapid (ballistic) elbow movements. It is hypothesized that this model could reproduce the major features of elbow muscle activity during multi-df elbow movements using dynamic optimal control theory, given a minimum-time performance criterion. Results from the model are presented and verified with experimental kinematic and electromyographic data from movements that involved both one-df elbow flexion/extension and two-df flexion/extension with forearm pronation/supination. The model demonstrated how the activity of particular muscles is affected by both forearm position and movement, as measured in these experiments and as previously reported by others. These changes were most evident in the flexor muscles and least evident in the extensor muscles. The model also indicated that, for specific one- and two-df movements, activating a muscle that is antagonistic or noncontributory to the movement could reduce the movement time. The major features of muscle activity in multi-df elbow movements appear to be highly dependent on the joint's musculoskeletal geometry and are not strictly based on neural influences or neuroanatomical substrates.
2.5 Gbit/s/channel laser driver design for four-channel parallel optic transceiver using SiGe BiCMOS technology

A laser driver for a four-channel parallel fibre optic transceiver operating up to 2.5 Gbit/s is designed using a 0.35 /spl mu/m SiGe BiCMOS process. An 850 nm vertical cavity surface emitting laser diode array is used as a light source. The measurement was performed under the case temperature range 0-80/spl deg/C at 3.1 to 3.5 V power supply variations. Using a gigabit Ethernet filter, a 45% eye mask margin has been achieved at -4 dBm average optical power and 7 dB extinction ratio at 40/spl deg/C. The rise/fall time is less than 100 ps. The measured deterministic jitter is under 60 ps and the random jitter under 4 ps RMS.
Intravenous self-administration of mephedrone, methylone and MDMA in female rats.

Male rats will intravenously self-administer (IVSA) the substituted cathinone stimulants (“bath salts”) mephedrone (4-methylmethcathione) and methylone (3,4-methylenedioxymethcathinone) robustly, whereas the IVSA of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is inconsistent in many rat models. There are no data available on the self-administration of these drugs in female rats, thus a study was undertaken to contrast them directly. Groups of female Wistar rats were trained to self-administer mephedrone, methylone or MDMA (0.5 mg/kg/inf) under a Fixed-Ratio (FR) 1 schedule of reinforcement for 14 sessions. Following the acquisition interval, animals were evaluated in FR (0.0, 0.125, 0.25, 0.5, 1.0, 2.5 mg/kg/inf) and PR (0.125, 1.0 mg/kg/inf) dose-substitution procedures. The results show that female rats acquired the self-administration of all three compounds with intakes in mephedrone-trained rats that were significantly higher than that of methylone-trained or MDMA-trained rats. In dose-substitution under either FR or PR contingencies, however, the potencies of all three drugs were similar within the original training groups. The mephedrone-trained animals exhibited higher intakes of all drugs during dose-substitution, indicating lasting consequences of the training drug. Abuse liability of these three compounds is therefore predicted to be similar in established stimulant users but may differ in liability if they are primary drugs of initiation.
The Communicative Function of Pelvic Fin-Flickering in Etroplus Maculatus (Pisces, Cichlidae)

1. Fin-flickering (calling) is exhibited only by adult fish when they are caring for the young. This behavior is especially frequent when the parents are alarmed. The calling frequency of the parents was as much as 17 times greater during disturbed conditions than during undisturbed conditions. 2. During disturbed conditions the duration and frequency of calling were significantly greater on the third day that the fry were free-swimming than on any of the other test days. This increase in calling is discussed in connection with other behavioral and histological changes that have been deported to occur on day 3. 3. The parents alternate in the care of the school. The times spent with the school by each parent are not significantly different whether observed during disturbed or undisturbed conditions. 4. On each test day the vertical and horizontal dispersion of the school decreased as calling increased, causing the school to become more compact. The distance from the center of the school to the parent changed significantly only on day 6 of free-swimming, decreasing as calling increased. 5. During the free-swimming stage of development the fry make continual physical contact with the body of the parents, a behavior termed glancing. Glancing rates were unaffected by changes in calling frequency on days 1 and 3 of free-swimming. However, on day 6 and on subsequent days glancing decreased as the calling frequency increased. 6. The changes in school activity as a function of increased calling, which were seen on day 6 but not on day 3, are discussed in light of their adaptive significance.
Alpha chloralose and nocturnal physiological patterns.

Sleep physiological patterns were examined following a single oral dose (500 mg) of the hypnotic drug alpha chloralose. The drug increased SW sleep and decreased REM sleep without affecting total sleep time or the amount of stage 2. These changes were accompanied by a shift to slower frequencies and greater EEG synchrony, as well as a decrease in the number of spontaneous arousals in all stages of sleep, and throughout the night of medication. Except for a slight decrease in eye movement density, the drug had no systematic effects on phasic phenomena such as electrodermal or cardio-respiratory fluctuations, nor was there a systematic change in basal heart and breathing rates.
MuseumAfrica: Colonial Past, Postcolonial Present

Abstract This article uses the history of Johannesburg's MuseumAfrica (formerly the Africana Museum) to determine what happens when we enter a museum informed by its particular history. Tracing this museum's story – from its founder's arrival in South Africa in 1902 to the near present – it asserts that by probing the biographies of the museum, its personnel, and its objects its present state is rendered newly understandable. This process of uncovering biography and what is here termed backstory then becomes a methodology capable of being used in multiple postcolonial institutions.
Nutrition Support in Severe Acute Pancreatitis

Nutritional support can improve the outcome from severe acute pancreatitis in two ways: first by providing the building blocks for tissue repair and recovery, and second, by modulating the inflammatory response and preventing organ failure, both of which are responsible for most of the morbidity and mortality associated with the disease. This review discusses the evidence on which these statements are based.
On the Basalts and Andesites of Devonshire, known as ‘Felspathic Traps’

I. Previous Literature. 1797. W. G. Maton. Observations relative chiefly to the Natural History, Picturesque Scenery, and Antiquities of the Western Counties of England. Salisbury, vol. i. pp. 95-97 (describes the Thorverton stone). 1811. J.F. Berger. Observations on the Physical Structure of Devonshire and Cornwall. Trans. Geol. Soc. vol. i. pp. 100-102 (describes the amygdaloid of Poucham [probably Pocombe], Upton Pyne, 1 and Thorverton). 1821. Rev. J. J. Conybeare. On the Geology of the neighbourhood of Okehampton, Devon (" memoranda on the Red Marle" at end); Annals of Philosophy, new series, vol. ii. pp. 165, 166 (describes the amygdaloid of Thorverton, Silverton, and Radden [Raddon Court] quarries). 1835. Sir H. T. De la Beche. " Note on the Trappean Rocks associated with the (New)Red Sandstone of Devonshire," Prec. Geol. Soc. vol. ii. (1833-8) pp. 196-8 (mentions the trappean rocks "near Tiverton, Thorverton, Silverton, Kellerton Park, Crediton, and Exeter," and gives the geological history of those at Washfield, near Tiverton. 1839. Sir H. T. De la Beche. Report on the Geology of Cornwall, Devon, and West Somerset (Geol. Survey Memoir)pp. 199-204, 211, 212, 215, 216, 489. 1839 ? (no date). One-inch Geological Survey Maps, Sheets 21, 22, 24, 26 (almost all the important exposures are included in Sheets 21 and 22). 1865. W. Vicary, F.G.S. On the Feldspathic Traps of Devonshire. Trans. Devon. Assoc. vol. i. pt. iv. pp. 43--49 (gives additional localities and fuller details of the macroscopical characters of the rocks). 1890. R. N. Worth, F.G.S. The Igneous Constituents
Thermal decomposition and dehydration of magnesium perchlorate hexahydrate

Abstract The dehydration and thermal decomposition kinetics of magnesium perchlorate hexahydrate have been studied using thermograviinetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry and x-ray diffraction techniques in conjunction with isothermal gas evolution vs. time measurements. For Mg(ClO4)2-6H2O dehydration occurs in a complex manner in three distinct temperature regions between 148–197, 248–278 and 344–395°C. Each region is associated with the removal of 2H2O. For Mg(ClO4)2 between 369 and 429°C the fractional decomposition, α, vs. time curves are sigmoidal and consist of an induction period, an acceleratory period followed by a short decay stage up to α $ 0.5 and a slow decay stage from α ~ 0.5 to completion. Above 417°C this long decay stage is replaced by an acceleratory stage. Activation energies for the induction, acceleratory, first and second decay stages are 78.6 ± 2.0, 65.3 ± 5.6, 48.9 ± 6.4 and 58.0 ± 11.1 kcal mol−1, respectively. The results suggest that decomposition proceeds via the formation of an intermediate, (MgO-MgClO4), which dissociates at low temperatures and decomposes rapidly to MgO above 417°C. The principal effects of exposure to 60Co gamma rays prior to thermal decomposition is to reduce the induction period and increase the rate of the acceleratory period. These results have been interpreted as the introduction of additional nucleation sites by the irradiation and are consistent with previously reported data on irradiation effects on thermally decomposed inorganic solids.
An engineering method for reliability analyses of mechanical structures for long fatigue lives

Abstract Reliability analyses of mechanical structures designed for long fatigue lives require: some information on the probability distribution of material fatigue strength at long fatigue lives. In order to address this need, three-parameter P-S-N curves are adopted to represent the results of fatigue tests based on the conventional method. The parameters of the P-S-N curves are estimated by using the least squares fitting method and maximizing the correlation coefficient. The three-parameter P-S-N curves obtained are then used to estimate the fatigue strengths for different survival probabilities at an arbitrarily long fatigue life. These fatigue strengths are used to define the probability distribution of fatigue strength at the long fatigue life when a normal. distribution is used to approximate the probability distribution of fatigue strength. The method is illustrated by analyzing the results of fatigue tests of steel #45 (Chinese steel) notched specimens subject to axial loads with a stress concentration factor kt = 2·0. Then, the method is applied to the fatigue reliability analysis of the runner of a hydraulic turbine. It is shown here that the reliability at long lifetimes can be easily estimated by the proposed engineering method and the conventional method may give a non-conservative design at long fatigue lives due to the assumption of bi-linear P-S-N curves.
Hough Forest Random Field for Object Recognition and Segmentation

This paper presents a new computational framework for detecting and segmenting object occurrences in images. We combine Hough forest (HF) and conditional random field (CRF) into HFRF to assign labels of object classes to image regions. HF captures intrinsic and contextual properties of objects. CRF then fuses the labeling hypotheses generated by HF for identifying every object occurrence. Interaction between HF and CRF happens in HFRF inference, which uses the Metropolis-Hastings algorithm. The Metropolis-Hastings reversible jumps depend on two ratios of proposal and posterior distributions. Instead of estimating four distributions, we directly compute the two ratios using HF. In leaf nodes, HF records class histograms of training examples and information about their configurations. This evidence is used in inference for nonparametric estimation of the two distribution ratios. Our empirical evaluation on benchmark datasets demonstrates higher average precision rates of object detection, smaller object segmentation error, and faster convergence rates of our inference, relative to the state of the art. The paper also presents theoretical error bounds of HF and HFRF applied to a two-class object detection and segmentation.
Management of giant omphalocele with rapid creation of abdominal domain

Abstract Background The management of giant omphaloceles (GO) can be quite difficult when there is absence of abdominal domain. Coverage with delayed closure has been described. We present a technique to create an adequate peritoneal domain. Methods This is a retrospective review of our experience using an intraperitoneal tissue expander (IPTE) to create adequate abdominal domain in 2 patients with GO. Results In 2 children with unrepaired GO, an IPTE was placed into the pelvis and was inflated to the target volume over 3 to 4 weeks. At the definitive operation for the closure of the abdominal defect, the IPTE was removed, allowing reduction of all the viscera into the peritoneal cavity and achieving complete abdominal wall closure. The patients are now 1 year postoperative, each having a normal abdomen and enjoying normal growth and development. Conclusion Intraperitoneal tissue expander placement can create the needed domain over several weeks in GO. Its use in 2 cases was associated with satisfactory complete abdominal wall closure in short order. This technique should be considered as a treatment option.
Workshop on geophysical grain flows

“Geophysical Grain Flows: Fluid-Grain Interactions in Coastal Sand Transport” was the focus of a workshop held from March 10 to 14 on Amelia Island, Fla. The workshop was sponsored by the National Science Foundation and the University of Florida. Approximately thirty-five participants from ten different countries attended, representing universities, government laboratories, and private companies. During the workshop, one of the largest and strongest storms in the recorded history of North America impacted the eastern half of the United States. The local response of the beach at Amelia Island to this storm was striking and somewhat surprising. There was substantial accretion and widening of the beach. While the morphological changes in the beach profile were of medium to large scale, it is intriguing to realize that the changes resulted from the integrated motion of an uncountable number of sand grains, each moving more or less independently, yet cumulatively producing a wider beach.
Role of Refugia in Recovery from Disturbances: Modern Fragmented and Disconnected River Systems

Habitats or environmental factors that convey spatial and temporal resistance and/or resilience to biotic communities that have been impacted by biophysical disturbances may be called refugia. Most refugia in rivers are characterized by extensive coupling of the main channel with adjacent streamside forests, floodplain features, and groundwater. These habitats operate at different spatial scales, from localized particles, to channel units such as pools and riffles, to reaches and longer sections, and at the basin level. A spatial hierarchy of different physical components of a drainage network is proposed to provide a context for different refugia. Examples of refugia operating at different spatial scales, such as pools, large woody debris, floodplains, below dams, and catchment basins are discussed. We hope that the geomorphic context proposed for examining refugia habitats will assist in the conservation of pristine areas and attributes of river systems and also allow a better understanding of rehabilitation needs in rivers that have been extensively altered.
Memes and Mutation: Societal Implications of Evolutionary Agents in Push Technologies

Push technologies are rapidly moving toward autonomous and evolutionary intelligent agents for seeking, organizing, and creating information via the Web and other pervasive and innovative information technologies. We describe and define autonomous and evolutionary agents designed for push technologies. Memes, which are messages one agent broadcasts to another, causing the agent to evolve are introduced and we explore how memes will influence evolutionary agents. We develop the social implications of meritorious and malevolent memes exchanged by evolutionary agents. In the conclusion we explore the interactions among humans, evolutionary agents, and memes in order to reflect upon the future. Finally, we raise a series of future research questions regarding genetic determination of evolutionary agents, whether it is possible to predict if a meme will be meritorious or malevolent, and ask whether it is desirable to legislate the evolution of agents that are evolved from malevolent memes. Our contribution is to raise awareness of the movement toward push technologies deploying evolutionary agents and its promise and caveats, as well as to provide future research directions.
Differentiation method-dependent expression of leptin in adipocyte cell lines.

Abstract Leptin, the product of the ob gene, is expressed exclusively in adipose tissue. However, adipocyte cell lines, such as 3T3-L1 adipocytes, have generally been reported to express extremely low levels of leptin mRNA. We compared 3T3-L1's to the closely related line 3T3-F442A, and to another murine adipocyte line, TA1. TA1 cells, when differentiated by indomethacin/insulin treatment, express leptin at levels greater than those of 3T3-L1 adipocytes differentiated by the traditional methylisobutylxanthine/dexamethasone/insulin protocol. However, when 3T3-L1's are differentiated in the presence of indomethacin/insulin their expression levels of leptin increase dramatically. 3T3-F442A preadipocytes also express high levels of leptin when differentiated in the presence of T 3 and insulin, but when differentiated in the presence of indomethacin/insulin, expression levels drop precipitously. These changes in leptin mRNA and protein expression are not reflected by changes in CCAAT/enhancer binding protein-α (c/EBPα), peroxizomal proliferator activated receptor-γ (PPARγ), lipoprotein lipase (LPL), fatty-acid binding protein aP2 or uncoupling protein-2 (UCP2) mRNA levels, and suggest a mechanism unique to the leptin gene.
“Legacy: San Lazaro” the integration of composition, performance, and computer programming

Abstract This paper discusses my work as a composer, performer and designer of interactive computer music systems. A composition for saxophone and interactive system is examined.
Labor market adjustment to political conflict Changes in the labor market in El Salvador during the 1980s

Abstract I use household survey data for the 1980s to examine changes in the labor market of El Salvador. The findings suggest that the labor market does adjust to conflict: there have been significant effects of conflict on the regional distribution of employment, on international migration, on internal migration in the areas directly affected. Other indicators, such as labor force participation and self-employment rates, show outcomes are lower in the areas that were affected by conflict, but were lower even before the conflict began. And for earnings, the level of real hourly earnings has fallen substantially in all areas in the 1980s.
On Subgroups of Prime Index

The proof of this is usually based on the fact that the transitive multiplication action of G on the left coset space of H has a kernel K given by the largest normal subgroup of G contained in H. This consideration leads to the divisibility of [G : H]! by the index [G : K] = [G : H] [H : K]. The assumption on [G : HI then implies that [H : K] = 1, so H = K is normal in G. (See, for instance, [1, p. 123], [2, p. 44].) This proof, although short, is not suitable for beginning students since they are far from having the theory of group actions at their disposal. In teaching a beginning abstract algebra course, I found a proof for Theorem 1 that is both quick and possible for students at the level of such a course to understand. Moreover, the idea of this proof led to several criteria for the normality of subgroups of prime index (in any group G). Since such criteria do not seem to be available in standard textbooks or even in the
The Effect of Bed Temperature on Mass Transfer between the Bubble and Emulsion Phases in a Fluidized Bed

The rate of interphase mass transfer between the bubble and emulsion phases of a bubbling fluidized bed is of primary importance in all models for fluidized bed reactors. Many experimental studies have been reported, however, all these investigations have been carried out in fluidized beds operated at room temperature. In this work, the effect of the bed temperature on the interphase mass transfer is reported. Single bubbles containing argon – used as a tracer – were injected into an incipiently fluidized bed maintained at the required temperature. The change in argon concentration in the bubble was measured using a suction probe connected to a mass spectrometer. The effects of bed particle type and size, bubble size, and bed temperature on the mass transfer coefficient were examined experimentally. The interphase mass transfer coefficient was found to decrease with the increase in bed temperature and bubble size, and increase slightly with increase in particle size. Experimental data obtained in this study were compared with some frequently used correlations for estimation of the mass transfer coefficient. Le taux de transfert de matiere interphasique entre les phases a bulles et a emulsion d'un lit fluidise bullant est de premiere importance dans tous les modeles de reacteurs a lits fluidises. Beaucoup d'etudes experimentales ont ete presentees; toutefois, toutes ces recherches ont ete menees dans des lits fluidises fonctionnant a la temperature ambiante. Dans ce travail, on decrit l'effet de la temperature du lit sur le taux de transfert de matiere. Des bulles simples contenant de l'argon &n0150; utilise comme traceur &n0150; ont ete injectees dans un lit fluidise naissant maintenu a la temperature requise. Le changement de concentration d'argon dans la bulle est mesure a l'aide d'une sonde de succion reliee a un spectrometre de masse. Les effets du type et de la taille des particules de lit, de la taille des bulles et de la temperature de lit sur le coefficient de transfert de matiere sont examines de facon experimentale. On a trouve que le coefficient de transfert de matiere interphasique diminuait avec l'augmentation de la temperature du lit et de la taille des bulles, et augmentait legerement avec l'augmentation de la taille des particules. Les donnees experimentales obtenues dans cette etude sont comparees avec quelques correlations frequemment utilisees pour l'estimation du coefficient de transfert de matiere.
Game theoretic design for polarimetric MIMO radar target detection

Polarimetric radar systems allow the flexibility of transmitting arbitrarily polarized waveforms that match the scattering profiles of the target. Since different types of targets have varying profiles, the advantages of a polarimetric radar system can fully be exploited only when the type of target is accurately estimated. However, accurate estimation requires a significant amount of training data, which can be expensive. We propose a polarimetric design scheme for distributed multiple input multiple output (MIMO) radar target detection. We formulate the selection of transmit polarizations using a game theoretic framework by examining the impact of all possible transmit schemes on the detection performance with different available target profiles (see also Gogineni and Nehorai, 2011 [1]). This approach does not require training data, and we show a significant performance improvement due to the polarimetric design. Other radar design problems can also be solved using this game theoretic approach.
Phase transitions in a probabilistic cellular automaton: Growth kinetics and critical properties

We investigate a discrete-time kinetic model without detailed balance which simulates the phase segregation of a quenched binary alloy. The model is a variation on the Rothman-Keller cellular automaton in which particles of type A (B) move toward domains of greater concentration of A (B). Modifications include a fully occupied lattice and the introduction of a temperature-like parameter which endows the system with a stochastic evolution. Using computer simulations, we examine domain growth kinetics in the two-dimensional model. For long times after a quench from disorder, we find that the average domain sizeR(t) ∼ t 1/3, in agreement with the prediction of Lifshitz-Slyozov-Wagner theory. Using a variety of methods, we analyze the critical properties of the associated second-order transition. Our analysis indicates that this model does not fall within either the Ising or mean-field classes.
Nitrate reduction in a simulated free-water surface wetland system

The feasibility of using a constructed wetland for treatment of nitrate-contaminated groundwater resulting from the land application of biosolids was investigated for a site in the southeastern United States. Biosolids degradation led to the release of ammonia, which upon oxidation resulted in nitrate concentrations in the upper aquifer in the range of 65-400 mg N/L. A laboratory-scale system was constructed in support of a pilot-scale project to investigate the effect of temperature, hydraulic retention time (HRT) and nitrate and carbon loading on denitrification using soil and groundwater from the biosolids application site. The maximum specific reduction rates (MSRR), measured in batch assays conducted with an open to the atmosphere reactor at four initial nitrate concentrations from 70 to 400 mg N/L, showed that the nitrate reduction rate was not affected by the initial nitrate concentration. The MSRR values at 22 °C for nitrate and nitrite were 1.2 ± 0.2 and 0.7 ± 0.1 mg N/mg VSS(COD)-day, respectively. MSRR values were also measured at 5, 10, 15 and 22 °C and the temperature coefficient for nitrate reduction was estimated at 1.13. Based on the performance of laboratory-scale continuous-flow reactors and model simulations, wetland performance can be maintained at high nitrogen removal efficiency (>90%) with an HRT of 3 days or higher and at temperature values as low as 5 °C, as long as there is sufficient biodegradable carbon available to achieve complete denitrification. The results of this study show that based on the climate in the southeastern United States, a constructed wetland can be used for the treatment of nitrate-contaminated groundwater to low, acceptable nitrate levels.
On the prewhitening nature of optimum filters

A discussion is presented concerning the prewhitening nature of optimum filters. The discussion is straightforward and avoids some of the lengthy (and sometimes awkward) developments previously advanced.
Thermal Conductivity of Porous Silicon Carbide Derived from Wood Precursors

Biomorphic silicon carbide (bioSiC), a novel porous ceramic derived from natural wood precursors, has potential applicability at high temperatures, particularly when rapid temperature changes occur. The thermal conductivity of bioSiC from five different precursors was experimentally determined using flash diffusivity and specific heat measurements at temperatures ranging from room temperature to 1100°C. The results were compared with values obtained from object-oriented finite-element analysis (OOF). OOF was also used to model and understand the heat-flow paths through the complex bioSiC microstructures.
Using MEMS-based storage in computer systems---MEMS storage architectures

As an emerging nonvolatile secondary storage technology, MEMS-based storage exhibits several desirable properties including high performance, high storage volumic density, low power consumption, low entry cost, and small form factor. However, MEMS-based storage provides a limited amount of storage per device and is likely to be more expensive than magnetic disk. Systems designers will therefore need to make trade-offs to achieve well-balanced designs. We present an architecture in which MEMS devices are organized into MEMS storage enclosures with online spares. Such enclosures are proven to be highly reliable storage building bricks with no maintenance during their economic lifetimes. We also demonstrate the effectiveness of using MEMS as another layer in the storage hierarchy, bridging the cost and performance gap between MEMS storage and disk. We show that using MEMS as a disk cache can significantly improve system performance and cost-performance ratio.
Myosin and actin filament lengths in diaphragms from emphysematous hamsters

In vitro studies of the diaphragm from emphysematous animals have, in some instances, shown an alteration in its sarcomere length-tension relationship and a decreased maximal specific tension. To our knowledge, it has never been determined whether such functional changes may be indicative of ultrastructural adaptations, e.g., changes in filament lengths and thus cross-bridge number. To address this, we compared filament lengths in diaphragms from hamsters in which emphysema was induced by endotracheal instillation of elastase (E) 5 mo before the hamsters were killed with those from control hamsters (C; saline instillation). Diaphragms were then fixed by vascular perfusion with buffered glutaraldehyde in situ at airway pressures set to approximate the physiological range of lung volumes from residual volume (RV) to total lung capacity (TLC). Ultrathin sections (50–70 nm) were taken parallel to the muscle fiber axis and examined by electron microscopy (x33,000). Sarcomere and filament length measurements were calibrated using an actin periodicity of 39 nm and an M-band width of 86 nm to correct for dimensional changes during preparation. Emphysema increased the change in lung volume from -20 to +25 cmH2O airway pressure (from RV to TLC) by approximately 88%, and the displacement volume of excised lung at 0 cmH2O airway pressure was increased by approximately 138% on average. Neither myosin (C = 1.592 +/- 0.027; E = 1.572 +/- 0.035 micron; P = 0.72) nor actin (C = 1.210 +/- 0.035; E = 1.221 +/- 0.014 micron; P = 0.76) filament lengths were affected by emphysema. Thus, filament length changes do not underlie the diaphragm functional adaptations observed previously in emphysema.
Treatment of Delirium in the Context of Anti–N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptor Antibody Encephalitis

Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry - Vol. 54 - N° 3 - p. 233-234