cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The effects of physiological levels of intermittent pressure on the development of articular cartilage in vitro

A semi-continuous compression/perfusion system has been custom made to allow the application of intermittent hydrostatic pressure, at physiological levels, to regenerating tissues over the long term. To test the system, isolated foal chondrocytes were seeded in resorbable polyglycolic acid meshes and cultured in the system for five weeks. The cell/polymer constructs were subjected to an intermittent hydrostatic pressure of 500 psi and were fed semi-continuously. Assays of the resulting tissue constructs indicate that the reactor supports cartilage development and that physiological intermittent compression enhances the production of extracellular matrix by the chondrocytes. The concentrations of sulfated glycosaminoglycan were found to be at least twice as high as those in control (unpressurized) samples. A correlation between the sulfated glycosaminoglycan content and the compressive modulus in pressurized, but not control, samples suggests that physiological intermittent pressurization not only enhances the production of extracellular matrix but may also influence matrix organization resulting in a stronger construct.
Effects of Powered Mobility Device Interventions on Social Skills for Children with Disabilities: A Systematic Review

Researchers have established a link between motor and social development. Power mobility devices (PMDs) can impact the social skills of children who are unable to move independently. The purpose of this systematic review was to explore the evidence on PMD interventions on social skills outcomes of young children with disabilities (CWD) and to provide guidance for future research on PMD interventions. A systematic search was conducted using three electronic databases: PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature to identify relevant studies. Twelve articles met the inclusion criteria and were included for analyses. Seven studies reported a significant impact of the PMD interventions on social skills. Although theories are supporting the relation between early mobility and social skills, in this review research shows variable results about the impact of PMDs on the social skills of young CWD. The research on this topic appears to be at an early stage, suggestions for further exploration are offered.
ICEBERG THICKNESS AND CRACK DETECTION

Results obtained with an impulse radar system used to profile the thickness of and detect cracks in a tabular iceberg in McMurdo Sound, Antarctica, and an ice island in the Beaufort Sea near Flaxman Island, Alaska, are presented. Graphic records are shown of the radar impulse travel time which clearly reveal, for the first time, the bottom relief of each ice formation. Also detected in the antarctic iceberg was an echo signature from an infiltration-brine layer. The impulse radar signature of a 3-m wide crevasse in the McMurdo Ice Shelf is also shown. The time of flight of the radar impulse in the ice island is compared with a 24.05-m drill hole measurement of the ice thickness. The effective velocity of the radar impulse in the ice island was found to be 0.16 m/ns and the effective dielectric constant of the ice to be 3.5. The findings show that tabular icebergs are flawed by cracks or crevasses which could be expected to propagate through the ice when an iceberg reaches the edge of the pack where it is subject to stresses induced by sea swell and waves.
Physics-guided machine learning for 3-D quantitative quasi-static elasticity imaging

We present a 3D extension of the Autoprogressive Method (AutoP) for quantitative quasi-static ultrasonic elastography (QUSE) based on sparse sampling of force-displacement measurements. Compared to current model-based inverse methods, our approach requires neither geometric nor constitutive model assumptions. We build upon our previous report for 2D QUSE and demonstrate the feasibility of recovering the 3D linear-elastic material property distribution of gelatin phantoms under compressive loads. Measurements of boundary geometry, applied surface forces, and axial displacements enter into AutoP where a Cartesian neural network constitutive model (CaNNCM) interacts with finite element analyses to learn physically consistent material properties with no prior constitutive model assumption. We introduce a new regularization term uniquely suited to AutoP that improves the ability of CaNNCMs to extract information about spatial stress distributions from measurement data. Results of our study demonstrate that acquiring multiple sets of force-displacement measurements by moving the US probe to different locations on the phantom surface not only provides AutoP with the necessary information for a CaNNCM to learn the 3D material property distribution, but may significantly improve the accuracy of the Young's modulus estimates. Furthermore, we investigate the trade-offs of decreasing the contact area between the US transducer and phantom surface in an effort to increase sensitivity to surface force variations without additional instrumentation. Each of these modifications improves the ability of CaNNCMs trained in AutoP to learn the spatial distribution of Young's modulus from force-displacement measurements.
Diagnosis, Prevention and Treatment of Peritonitis:

Recent reports related to the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of peritonitis in patients on chronic peritoneal dialysis are reviewed. The reports deal with modifications of earlier drug therapi...
A Variable-Latency Architecture for Accelerating Deterministic Approaches to Stochastic Computing

Traditional Stochastic Computing methods suffer from high latency due to the required bit stream length and the area incurred from generating them. Using deterministic bit streams reduces this area, greatly improves latency, and produces fully-accurate results. However, even though latency is improved, it is still high. This paper presents multiple novel, variable-latency architectures which exhibit superior performance and energy efficiency when compared to current state-of-the-art designs.
Data normalization strategies in metabolomics: Current challenges, approaches, and tools:

Data normalization is a big challenge in quantitative metabolomics approaches, whether targeted or untargeted. Without proper normalization, the mass-spectrometry and spectroscopy data can provide erroneous, sub-optimal data, which can lead to misleading and confusing biological results and thereby result in failed application to human healthcare, clinical, and other research avenues. To address this issue, a number of statistical approaches and software tools have been proposed in the literature and implemented over the years, thereby providing a multitude of approaches to choose from - either sample-based or data-based normalization strategies. In recent years, new dedicated software tools for metabolomics data normalization have surfaced as well. In this account article, I summarize the existing approaches and the new discoveries and research findings in this area of metabolomics data normalization, and I introduce some recent tools that aid in data normalization.
Retzius-sparing Robot-assisted Radical Prostatectomy Leads to Durable Improvement in Urinary Function and Quality of Life Versus Standard Robot-assisted Radical Prostatectomy Without Compromise on Oncologic Efficacy: Single-surgeon Series and Step-by-step Guide

Abstract Background Retzius-sparing robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RS-RARP) has been shown to improve continence. However, questions remain regarding feasibility and generalizability of technique and outcomes. Objective To compare the outcomes of 140 consecutive standard robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (S-RARP) versus RS-RARP. Design, setting, and participants A total of 70 S-RARPs were performed followed by 70 RS-RARPs. Demographic, pathologic, and functional outcomes were compared preoperatively and through 12 mo. Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite for Clinical Practice (EPIC-CP) was used to compare functional outcomes. Logistic and linear regression analyses were utilized to analyze variables associated with EPIC-CP urinary incontinence and overall quality of life (QOL) scores, and oncologic outcomes. Cox regression analysis was used to analyze incontinence at 12 mo. Surgical procedure RS-RARP versus S-RARP. Measurements Patient and tumor characteristics (age, body mass index, prostate-specific antigen, Charlson Comorbidity Index, Gleason group, clinical stage, and Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System score), perioperative outcomes (console time, estimated blood loss, postoperative complications, and length of stay), oncologic outcomes (positive surgical margin [PSM], and biochemical recurrence), overall and 12-mo continence rates (zero pads and zero to one safety pad), time to continence, potency (erection sufficient for sexual activity), EPIC-CP urinary incontinence, sexual function, and overall QOL scores. Results and limitations Median follow-up for S-RARP versus RS-RARP was 46.3 versus 12.3 mo. RS-RARP versus S-RARP had improved overall continence rates at total follow-up (95.7% vs 85.7%, p = 0.042) and 12-mo follow-up (97.6% vs 81.4%, p = 0.002), and faster return to continence (zero to one safety pad, 44 vs 131 d, p Conclusions RS-RARP significantly improves early and long-term continence without compromising oncologic outcomes and leads to overall improved QOL. Patient summary Retzius-sparing robot-assisted radical prostatectomy is an emerging technique for robotic radical prostatectomy that improves urinary function and quality of life without compromising cancer control.
Effect of Wendler Glottoplasty on Acoustic Measures of Voice

OBJECTIVES Voice therapy has been the primary treatment for voice feminization in transfemale patients due to concerns that surgery worsens voice quality. We aim to determine the impact of Wendler glottoplasty on acoustic measures of voice. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective case series. METHODS Transgender female patients treated for vocal feminization with Wendler glottoplasty at a single tertiary care center were identified. Pre- and postoperative measures were taken with the Kay Elemetrics Real-Time Pitch, Analysis of Dysphonia in Speech and Voice, and Multidimensional Voice Program. RESULTS Twenty-eight patients were included in this study. There were no statistically significant changes in fundamental frequency variation, peak amplitude variation, soft phonation index, noise-to-harmonics ratio, cepstral peak prominence, or cepstral spectral index of dysphonia at a significance level of P < .05. Average speaking fundamental frequency (SF0) increased from 143 Hz after voice therapy to 163 Hz after surgery (P = .0009). Lower range decreased in 61% and increased in 26% of patients. Upper range decreased in 52% and increased in 48% of patients. CONCLUSIONS Wendler glottoplasty does not worsen voice quality based on acoustic measures. Although most patients experience an increase in average SF0, effects on vocal range are variable with approximately half of patients experiencing a reduction and half experiencing an increase in upper pitch limit. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 4 Laryngoscope, 131:583-586, 2021.
Psychosocial evaluation in kidney transplantation

Abstract For patients with end-stage renal disease, kidney transplantation is a well-established treatment option. However, much of the success of a kidney transplant relies on how well the patient follows the prescribed posttransplant medical regimen. Because of this an important component of the evaluation for kidney transplant is a psychosocial evaluation. The purpose of the evaluation is to identify and remediate psychosocial barriers that could interfere with successful posttransplant adherence and management. Several psychosocial factors have been identified as contributing to nonadherence after transplantation, including a history of pretransplant nonadherence, psychopathology, poor social support, substance abuse, and cognitive deficits. Psychosocial providers share the findings of these evaluations with the transplant team, so a plan for remediation and follow-up can be established. Addressing these issues prior to transplantation helps to ensure patients are in the best position possible to care for their new kidneys.
A Fully Transparent, Flexible μECoG Array Based on Highly Conductive and Anti-reflective PEDOT:PSS-ITO-Ag-ITO Thin Films

Integrative neural interfaces combine neurophysiology and optogenetics with neural imaging, providing numerous opportunities for neuroscientists to study the structure, function, and diseases in neural circuits. Such a comprehensive interface demands miniature electrode arrays that are highly transparent, mechanically flexible, and biocompatible. Compared to implanted electrodes, microscale electrocorticogram (μECoG) arrays are less invasive, therefore lowering the risk of infection, seizure, and stroke. Common transparent μECoG arrays are made of a single material and at most two materials, including indium tin oxide (ITO), ultrathin metals, graphene, poly-(3, 4-ethylenedioxythiophene)/ poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS), etc. , making it hard to possess the excellent combination of properties, like high transmittance, low electrical resistance, mechanical flexibility, stability, and biocompatibility. In this paper, we structured an ultra-flexible, fully transparent, highly conductive, and peak-transmittance-tunable μECoG array with a PEDOT:PSS-ITO-Ag-ITO multilayer assembly on a thin Parylene C substrate. Each array consisted of 32 transparent microelectrodes distributed uniformly and divided equally into two 5 mm× 11 mm panels. The transmittance of the PEDOT:PSS-ITO-Ag-ITO assembly under the 550 nm targeted wavelength on the Parylene C substrate was ~7% higher than that of a single ITO layer of the equivalent thickness. The average impedance of the microelectrodes at 1 kHz was ~45 kΩ and increased to ~59 kΩ after four weeks of soaking test, suggesting the stability of the electrodes for long-term electrophysiology recording. Cyclic voltammetry was performed to confirm the increased charge storage capacity. These microelectrodes based on PEDOT:PSS-ITO-Ag-ITO also showed a neglectable signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) changes under blue, green, yellow and red light-emitting diodes (LEDs) compared with no light. In vivo recording from the primary visual cortex (V1) of an anesthetized rat validated the efficacy of the transparent electrodes for recording ECoG activity in living brain tissues.
Allele-specific expression and gene regulation help explain transgressive thermal tolerance in non-native hybrids of the endangered California tiger salamander (Ambystoma californiense).

Hybridization between native and non-native species is an ongoing global conservation threat. Hybrids that exhibit traits and tolerances that surpass parental values are of particular concern, given their potential to outperform native species. Effective management of hybrid populations requires an understanding of both physiological performance and the underlying mechanisms that drive transgressive hybrid traits. Here, we explore several aspects of the hybridization between the endangered California tiger salamander (Ambystoma californiense; CTS) and the introduced barred tiger salamander (Ambystoma mavortium; BTS). We assayed critical thermal maximum (CTMax) to compare the ability of CTS, BTS and F1 hybrids to tolerate acute thermal stress, and found that hybrids exhibit a wide range of CTMax values, with 33% (4/12) able to tolerate temperatures greater than either parent. We then quantified the genomic response, measured at the RNA transcript level, of each salamander, to explore the mechanisms underlying thermal tolerance strategies. We found that CTS and BTS have strikingly different values and tissue-specific patterns of overall gene expression, with hybrids expressing intermediate values. F1 hybrids display abundant and variable degrees of allele-specific expression (ASE), likely arising from extensive compensatory evolution in gene regulatory mechanisms between CTS and BTS. We found evidence that the proportion of genes with allelic imbalance in individual hybrids correlates with their CTMax, suggesting a link between ASE and expanded thermal tolerance that may contribute to the success of hybrid salamanders in California. Future climate change may further complicate management of CTS if hybrid salamanders are better equipped to deal with rising temperatures.
Functional Analysis in the Intellectual Property Valuation, Damages, or Transfer Price Measurement

Intellectual property owners and operators often need to know a value opinion, a damages measurement, or a transfer price determination regarding their intellectual property. Owners and operators may need to know these conclusions for transaction, taxation, licensing, financing, financial accounting, litigation, strategic planning, and other purposes. To develop these valuation, damages, or transfer price conclusions, owners and operators often retain, work with, and rely upon specialists who perform these analyses. Such specialists may include economists, forensic accountants, valuation analysts, licensing experts, industry consultants, and other professionals. For purposes of this discussion, these professionals are referred to collectively as “analysts.”
“Need help? We got you!”: Sources of support for first-generation Latinx student-athletes

Approximately 6% of Latinxs participate in intercollegiate athletics [Lapchick, R. (2020). The 2019 racial and gender report card: College sport. The Institute for Diversity and Ethics in Sport. ht...
Sensitivity analyses of unmeasured and partially-measured confounders using multiple imputation in a vaccine safety study.

Purpose Sensitivity analyses have played an important role in pharmacoepidemiology studies using electronic health records data. Despite the existence of quantitative bias analysis in pharmacoepidemiologic studies, simultaneously adjusting for unmeasured and partially measured confounders is challenging in vaccine safety studies. Our objective was to develop a flexible approach for conducting sensitivity analyses of unmeasured and partially-measured confounders concurrently for a vaccine safety study. Methods We derived conditional probabilities for an unmeasured confounder based on bias parameters, used these conditional probabilities and Monte Carlo simulations to impute the unmeasured confounder, and re-constructed the analytic datasets as if the unmeasured confounder had been observed. We simultaneously imputed a partially measured confounder using a prediction model. We considered unmeasured breastfeeding and partially measured family history of Type 1 diabetes (T1DM) in a study examining the association between exposure to rotavirus vaccination and T1DM. Results Before sensitivity analyses, the hazard ratios (HR) were 1.50 (95% CI, 0.81-2.77) for those partially exposed and 1.03 (95% CI, 0.62-1.72) for those fully exposed with unexposed children as the referent group. When breastfeeding and family history of T1DM were adjusted, the HR was 1.55 (95% CI, 0.84-2.87) for the partially exposed group; the HR was 0.98 (95% CI, 0.58-1.63) for the fully exposed group. Conclusions We conclude that adjusting for unmeasured breastfeeding and partially measured family history of T1DM did not alter the conclusion that there was no evidence of association between rotavirus vaccination and developing T1DM. This novel approach allows for simultaneous adjustment for multiple unmeasured and partially-measured confounders. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Data Sources for Business Intelligence

As organizations' desire for data grows, so does their search for data sources that are both usable and reliable. Businesses can obtain and collect big data in a variety of locations, both inside and outside their own walls. This study aims to investigate the various data sources for business intelligence. For business intelligence, there are three types of data: internal data, external data, and personal data. Internal data is mostly kept in databases, which serve as the backbone of an enterprise information system and are known as transactional systems or operational systems. This information, however, is not always sufficient. If the company wants to answer market and industry questions or better understand future customers, the analytics team may need to look beyond the company's own data sources. Organizations must have access to a variety of data sources in order to answer the key questions that guide their initiatives. Internal sources, external public sources, and collaboration with a big data expert could all be beneficial. Companies who are able to extract relevant data from their mountain of data acquire new perspectives on their business, allowing them to become more competitive.
Hybrid Quantum-Classical Graph Convolutional Network

The high energy physics (HEP) community has a long history of dealing with large-scale datasets. To manage such voluminous data, classical machine learning and deep learning techniques have been employed to accelerate physics discovery. Recent advances in quantum machine learning (QML) have indicated the potential of applying these techniques in HEP. However, there are only limited results in QML applications currently available. In particular, the challenge of processing sparse data, common in HEP datasets, has not been extensively studied in QML models. This research provides a hybrid quantum-classical graph convolutional network (QGCNN) for learning HEP data. The proposed framework demonstrates an advantage over classical multilayer perceptron and convolutional neural networks in the aspect of number of parameters. Moreover, in terms of testing accuracy, the QGCNN shows comparable performance to a quantum convolutional neural network on the same HEP dataset while requiring less than $50\%$ of the parameters. Based on numerical simulation results, studying the application of graph convolutional operations and other QML models may prove promising in advancing HEP research and other scientific fields.
Isolation of nuclei from protozoa and algae.

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on techniques for the mass isolation of nuclei from protozoa and algae. For each cell type discussed in the chapter, information is given on the nuclear-isolation technique as well as on the properties of the isolated nuclei. For each isolation method presented, the methods used for growth and harvesting of the cells involved are also included. Successful application of a particular isolation method depends to some degree on the conditions used for cell growth. In this study, the ease and degree of breakage of the tough outer pellicle of Euglena gracilis depends on the growth medium used. The chapter specifies that certain makes of instruments can be used in developing a particular isolation method. Actual instruments so specified are included in the chapter to serve as guides to successful use of the cited method. Methods presented in the chapter were chosen from the literature on the basis that they were published with microscopic evaluations (light, phase-contrast, or electron microscope) of the purity and intactness of the final nuclear pellet.
Interval sampling methods and measurement error: A computer simulation

A simulation study was conducted to provide a more thorough account of measurement error associated with interval sampling methods. A computer program simulated the application of momentary time sampling, partial-interval recording, and whole-interval recording methods on target events randomly distributed across an observation period. The simulation yielded measures of error for multiple combinations of observation period, interval duration, event duration, and cumulative event duration. The simulations were conducted up to 100 times to yield measures of error variability. Although the present simulation confirmed some previously reported characteristics of interval sampling methods, it also revealed many new findings that pertain to each method's inherent strengths and weaknesses. The analysis and resulting error tables can help guide the selection of the most appropriate sampling method for observation-based behavioral assessments.
CORBA-Based Run Time Architectures for Workflow Management Systems

This article presents five run-time architectures for implementing a Workflow Management System (WFMS). The architectures range from highly centralized to fully distributed. Two of the architectures have been implemented at the Large Scale Distributed Information Systems (LSDIS) Lab at The University of Georgia. All the WFMS architectures are designed on top of a Common Object Request Broker Architecture (CORBA) implementation. The article also discusses the advantages and disadvantages of the architectures and the suitability of CORBA as a communication infrastructure. A minor extension to CORBAâ€™s Interface Definition Language (IDL) is proposed to provide an alternative means of specifying workflows. Simplified examples from the healthcare domain are given to illustrate our workflow technology.
On the Néel temperature of URu2Si2 in high magnetic fields

Abstract Measurements of the magnetic force and torque acting on a polycrystalline sample of the heavy-fermion superconductor URu2Si2 are presented. These measurements are made with a capacitive magnetometer in the vicinity of the antiferromagnetic transition near 17 K, in magnetic fields to 100 kOe. The temperature-dependent susceptibility derived from the magnetic torque is in reasonable agreement with measurements made on a commercial superconducting-quantum-interference-device-based magnetometer. As the field is increased, a depression of the antiferromagnetic transition to lower temperatures is observed, a depression which is consistent with that expected for a spin-density wave.
A Peacock's Tale: Due Process and Free Speech in Academe

The 1973 dismissal of Dr. Erie E. Peacock, Jr., as Head of the Department of Surgery at the University of Arizona College of Medicine set in motion a long, bitter, and expensive dispute. The struggle involved preliminary motions in federal district court, jury trials, four appeals to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, and administrative hearings at the University. In the process, courts and faculty panels considered the issues of protected interests in administrative and teaching positions, procedural due process, academic freedom, and free speech for university personnel. The litigation has legal and practical ramifications in the State of Arizona and nationally. Because of the influence that Dr. Peacock's termination and its aftermath have had upon the university system in Arizona and upon the law affecting academic dismissals generally, as well as the unique longevity of the litigation, a chronicle of his complicated tale of legal and administrative conflict has merit. The history illustrates an avoidable personnel dispute, badly handled by a university; dogged persistence by a proud, somewhat exasperating faculty member resisting a reputation-damaging termination; a legal battle unusual in its duration and intensity; and incalculable damage to faculty morale and to the prestige of a fine educational institution. Perhaps other institutions can learn a valuable lesson in what not to do in comparable situations. In addition, the controversy raises important questions with respect to the required "public concern"' element of speech by academic personnel at public universities, and under what circumstances constitutional protection accompanies their remarks.
Medication use by U.S. crewmembers on the International Space Station

The environment on the International Space Station (ISS) includes a variety of potential physiologic stressors, including low gravity, elevated exposure to radiation, confined living and working quarters, a heavy workload, and high public visibility. This retrospective study examined medication use during long-duration spaceflights (>30 d). Medication records from 24 crewmembers on 20 missions longer than 30 d over a 10 yr period were examined for trends in usage rates, efficacy, and indication, as well as adverse event quality, frequency, and severity. Results were compared with those from crewmembers on shorter space shuttle missions (>16 d) and other reports of medication use by healthy adults. The most frequently used medications on the ISS were for sleep problems, pain, congestion, or allergy. Medication use during spaceflight missions was similar to that noted on the Space Shuttle and in adult ambulatory medicine, except that usage of sleep aids was about 10 times higher during spaceflight missions. There were also 2 apparent treatment failures in cases of skin rash, raising questions about the efficacy or suitability of the treatments used. Many spaceflight-related medication uses (at least 10%) were linked to extravehicular activities, exercise protocols, or equipment and operationally driven schedule changes. It seems likely that alterations in spaceflight mission operations (schedule-shifting and lighting) or hardware (extravehicular activity suits and exercise equipment) could reduce the need for a sizable fraction of medication uses.
'Such Stuff as Dreams are Made On': A Short Primer on Why We should Not Be Ready to Throw Out Affirmative Action

In the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court decision in the affirmative action companion cases of Grutter v. Bollinger and Gratz v. Bollinger, once again much was made of the issue of affirmative action and whether it had outlived its usefulness. In this paper, the background and present state of both the legal concept of affirmative action as well as the social climate are examined. The inevitable conclusion is that though we would like to live in a post-affirmative action world, we are not there yet.
Monotonic convergence of iterative learning control for uncertain systems using a time-varying Q-filter

Time-varying Q-filtering in iterative learning control (ILC) has demonstrated potential performance benefits over time-invariant Q-filtering. In this paper, LTV Q-filtering of ILC is considered for uncertain systems. Sufficient conditions for stability and the important monotonic convergence property are developed for the uncertain system. A class of LTV Q-filters that has particular benefit for rapid motion trajectories is presented, and monotonic convergence conditions are developed. The developed conditions highlight a relationship that the bandwidth can be increased locally and decreased elsewhere to localize high performance at specific times. These conditions are also iteration-length invariant and allow for significant design freedom after analysis enabling online modification of the LTV Q-filter.
The Faithless Employee: A Case Involving the Legal and Accounting Issues Associated with Employee Theft of Company Funds.

This case explores the areas of public accounting/auditing and business law as they relate to the conduct of an employee who intentionally and unlawfully obtains, and, negotiates for his own benefit, his employer’s negotiable instruments (checks). In particular, this case involves an accountant who unlawfully acquired negotiable instruments, purportedly drawn by the employer and made payable to the accountant as a result of the accountant’s improper use of his employer’s computerized accounting system. Because of his position, his knowledge of the system, and the lack of proper accounting controls, he was able to write company checks to himself and to manipulate the deductions to his paycheck.
Multiprocessor systems programming in a high-level data-flow language

The data-flow model of computation is an attractive methodology for multiprocessor programming for it offers the potential for unlimited parallelism detection at no programmer's expense. It is here applied to a distributed architecture based on a commercially available microprocessor (the Inmos Transputer). In this project, we have integrated the high-level data driven principles of scheduling within the Transputer architecture so as to provide high programmability of our multicomputer system. A complete programming environment which translates a complex data-flow program graph into occam has been developed and is presented in this paper. We here describe in detail the mapping from the SISAL high-level constructs into the low-level mechanisms of the Transputer (synchronization, structure representation, etc.). The partitioning issues (granularity of the graph) are presented and several solutions based upon both data-flow analysis (communication costs) and program syntax (program structure) are proposed and have been implemented in our programming environment. Finally, we present and analyze graph allocation and optimization schemes to improve the performance of the resulting occam program.
By Force of Habit: A Consumption-Based Explanation of Plantation of Aggregate Stock Market Behavior

We present a consumption-based model that explains the procyclical variation of stock prices, the long-horizon predictability of excess stock returns, and the countercyclical variation of stock market volatility. Our model has an i.i.d. consumption growth driving process, and adds a slow-moving external habit to the standard power utility function. The latterfeature produces cyclical variation in risk aversion, and hence in the prices of risky assets. Our model also predicts many of the difficulties that beset the standard power utility model, including Euler equation rejections, no correlation between mean consumption growth and interest rates, very high estimates of risk aversion, and pricing errors that are larger than those of the static CAPM. Our model captures much of the history of stock prices, given only consumption data. Since our model captures the equity premium, it implies that fluctuations have important welfare costs. Unlike many habit-persistence models, our model does not necessarily produce cyclical variation in the risk free interest rate, nor does it produce an extremely skewed distribution or negative realizations of the marginal rate of substitution.
Reforming Nevada's Public Employees Pension Plan

The Public Employees’ Retirement System of Nevada provides retirement, survivors and disability benefits for Nevada state and local government employees. It is currently one of the better-funded public-sector pensions, due to sound management and consistent government contributions.However, the true funding health of Nevada PERS is far poorer than most realize, due to accounting standards that are far more lax than those required for private-sector plans. Using fair-market valuation, which is endorsed by the vast majority of professional economists, is used by financial markets to value liabilities and which is required of private-sector plans, Nevada PERS’ funding ratio falls from 70 percent to around 34 percent and its unfunded liabilities would rise from about $10 billion to almost $41 billion.Annual contributions to cover accruing pension costs and amortization of unfunded liabilities would rise from $1.6 billion to an estimated $5.8 billion.As alarming as these figures may be, they are the figures that economists and financial markets believe are the most revealing of the true financial health of the Nevada pension program.Shifting PERS to a defined-contribution, 401(k)-type structure would not make these unfunded liabilities go away. However, it would ensure that benefit obligations are fully funded going forward, ensuring that lawmakers, taxpayers and public employees are clear regarding the pensions promises the government has made and its ability to fulfill them.While a defined-contribution (DC) approach is not perfect, experience with reformed 401(k) plans and the Thrift Savings Plan for federal government employees shows that a DC pension plan can be managed cost-effectively for employees and taxpayers alike.
Microstructure of Ba0.5Sr0.5TiO3 thin films on (100) LaAlO3 with SrRuO3 as electrodes

Abstract Using pulsed-laser deposition, We grew quaternary Ba0.5Sr0.5TiO3 thin films heteroepitaxially on (100) LaAlO3 substrates with conductive SrRuO3 as a bottom electrode. The microstructure of this multilayer of Ba0.5Sr0.5TiO3/SrRuO3/LaAlO3, was characterized by X-ray diffraction and cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy. The heteroepitaxial growth relationship was found to be (h00)Ba0.5Sr0.5TiO3‖(00l)SrRuO3‖(h00)LaAlO3 and (110)Ba0.5Sr0.5TiO3‖⟨100⟩SrRuO3‖⟨110⟩LaAlO3. The high dielectric constant of the crystalline Ba0.5Sr0.5TiO3 thin films and the low leakage current of the Ba0.5Sr0.5TiO3 film sandwiched between a top Au and bottom SrRuO3 electrodes are attributed to the structural perfection of the films and the clean interfaces between layers.
Classical Multidimensional Scaling

Classical multidimensional scaling (CMDS) is a technique that displays the structure of distance-like data as a geometrical picture. It is a member of the family of MDS methods. The input for an MDS algorithm usually is not an object data set, but the similarities of a set of objects that may not be digitalized. The input distance matrix of CMDS is of Euclidean-type. There exists an r-dimensional vector set H such that the Euclidean distance matrix of H is equal to the input one. The set H is called a configuration of the input matrix. In the case that the dimension of the set H is too high to be visualized, we then need to reduce the dimension of the configuration to 2 or 3 for visualization. Sometimes, a little higher dimension is acceptable. CMDS is equivalent to PCA when the input of CMDS is a data set. The data model in CMDS is linked to a complete weighed graph, in which the nodes are objects and the weights are the similarities between the objects. This chapter is organized as follows. In Section 6.1, we introduce multidimensional scaling. In Section 6.2, we discuss the relation between Euclidean distance matrices and Gram matrices. The description of CMDS is in Section 6.3. The algorithm of CMDS is presented in Section 6.4.
Estimating parameters in the two-compartment model of exhaled nitric oxide

INTRODUCTION: The fractional concentration of exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) is a biomarker of airway inflammation. FeNO decreases with increasing flow, which has led to the development of mathematical models whose parameters quantify proximal and distal sources. FeNO measured at the conventional 50 ml/s flow rate is primarily from proximal sources, so the parameters may provide additional insight. Parameters are estimated from FeNO data measured at multiple flow rates, but there is no standard estimation method. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To evaluate and compare a comprehensive set of existing and novel regression-based estimators of parameters from the two-compartment model of exhaled nitric oxide. METHODS: We used simulated multiple flow datasets to assess the statistical properties of the estimators and multiple flow datasets from 1507 schoolchildren from the Southern California Children9s Health Study (CHS) to investigate regression model fit and the sensitivity of estimates across models. RESULTS: A novel non-linear least squares model with log transformation fit CHS participant datasets very well (median adjusted R2 = 0.99), satisfied model assumptions (homoskedasticity), and produced estimators with good statistical properties (e.g., negligible bias). In the CHS, alveolar NO concentration (CaNO) estimates were only moderately correlated across estimation methods whereas bronchial flux estimates were highly correlated. CONCLUSIONS: Since CaNO estimation is a key result of multiple flow FeNO analysis, the sensitivity of CaNO estimates highlights the need for standardized methods. No gold standard is available to validate parameter estimators but our work can guide the selection of estimators in future studies.
Motion after metacarpophalangeal joint reconstruction in rheumatoid disease

Abstract The outcome of reconstruction of the rheumatoid metacarpophalangeal joint may deteriorate with time, especially with respect to active motion. This study assesses active finger motion after crossed intrinsic transfer and Swanson implant arthroplasty at increasing durations of follow-up to determine the effect of time. In a total of 58 patients, 21 hands had the crossed intrinsic transfer operation and 49 had the arthroplasty. Follow-up time averaged 6 years for the crossed intrinsic transfers and 21 months for the arthroplasties. Measurements of metacarpophalangeal, proximal interphalangeal, and distal interphalangeal joint active motion at each follow-up interval were analyzed by the univariate repeated measures analysis of variance method. After crossed intrinsic transfer the overall average active range of motion decreased significantly (18 degrees) at the metacarpophalangeal joint. Proximal interphalangeal and distal interphalangeal average range of motion significantly increased during the first 5 years as a result of increases in flexion. After implant arthroplasty, the overall average metacarpophalangeal range of motion was 42 degrees, which represented an increase of 8 degrees over the preoperative value. Motion analysis at the different follow-up intervals showed that the metacarpophalangeal average range of motion significantly increased during the first 2 years and then gradually declined through the duration of follow-up. Active proximal interphalangeal flexion was also significantly increased during the first 2 postoperative years. The effects of metacarpophalangeal joint reconstruction on active finger joint motion are related to the duration of postoperative follow-up; this concept should be considered when one is planning metacarpophalangeal joint reconstruction in rheumatoid patients.
Standard enthalpies of formation of some carbides, silicides, germanides, stannides and borides of Dysprosium by high temperature direct synthesis calorimetry

Abstract The standard enthalpies of formation for some Dysprosium alloys in the binary systems Dy-X (where X = C, Si, Ge, Sn, B) have been determined by direct synthesis calorimetry at 1473 ± 2 K. The following values of ΔH f 0 in kJ mol −1 of atoms are reported: DyC 2 , −28.6 ± 2.0; DySi, −68.9 ± 2.0; DySi 2 , −54.6 ± 2.1; Dy 5 Si 3 , −64.0 ± 2.1; Dy 5 Ge 3 , −92.8 ± 2.3; Dy 5 Sn 3 , −75.1 ± 2.1; DyB 2 , −30.2 ± 1.3. The results are compared with some earlier experimental data derived from EMF or mass spectrometric measurements, with available calorimetric values for the corresponding compounds of some of the early lanthanide elements, and with predicted values from the semi-empirical model of Miedema and coworkers. The possible correlation between the enthalpies of formation and the systematic changes in the reduced melting temperatures, and the relative molar volumes of the compounds as suggested by Gschneidner are also tested.
Electrophoretic Deposition of Chain Macromolecules: Conformation and Density Profiles, Roughening, and Deroughening

Electrophoretic deposition of polymer chains is studied by computer simulations. Effects of molecular weight (Lc), field (E), and temperature (T) on the growth of the interface width, roughness, and density profiles are examined on a discrete lattice with kink-jump segmental dynamics of chains. Effect of faster segmental dynamics will be pointed out.
p − p Higher Partial Waves and the 3-Meson Model

The pion, the $\ensuremath{\rho}\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\omega}$ vector pair, and a scalar $2\ensuremath{\pi}$ resonance are taken to explain the long-range nuclear forces. The calculated values are fitted to $p\ensuremath{-}p$ phase-shift solutions for various values of the unknown mass and coupling constants.
Long-time impurity confinement as a precursor to disruptions in ohmically heated tokamaks.

The confinement times of impurities in Ohmically heated tokamaks are shown to lengthen considerably as the density-limit boundary is approached and exceeded either by the increase of ${n}_{e}$ itself or by the lowering of ${B}_{T}$ or ${I}_{p}$. Observations made on the Texas tokamak indicate that a change in the balance of diffusion and inward convection mechanisms governing impurity transport precedes the onset of partial or major disruptions. These studies also explain the reason for the wide differences of impurity behavior previously observed among various tokamaks.
Differentiation in the cocoonase producing silkmoth galea: ultrastructural studies.

Abstract The differentiation of the cocoonase zymogen-producing cell groups (organules) is described at the ultrastructural level. Two types of zymogen cells arise early in development. One cell of each type associates specifically with the other and with a single duct cell to form an organule. Each organule elaborates a complex cuticular duct apparatus, in a morphogenetic process that involves specific attachments and movements of the apical cell regions, formation of a pseudoflagellar scaffolding, secretion of cuticular material, and extracellular reorganization of this material. Halfway through development, the zymogen cells retract from the duct apparatus, and th resulting extracellular space (storage vacuole) expands as it fills with cocoonase zymogen. The ultrastructure of the zymogen cells is discussed in terms of their growth and sequential secretory activities. Comparison is made with other insect organules.
Molecular Modeling of Proteins: A Strategy for Energy Minimization by Molecular Mechanics in the AMBER Force Field

Energy minimization is an important step in molecular modeling of proteins. In this study, we sought to develop a minimization strategy which would give the best final structures with the shortest computer time in the AMBER force field. In the all-atom model, we performed energy minimization of the melittin (mostly alpha-helical) and cardiotoxin (mostly beta-sheet and beta-turns) crystal structures by both constrained and unconstrained pathways. In the constrained path, which has been recommended in the energy minimization of proteins, hydrogens were relaxed first, followed by the side chains of amino acid residues, and finally the whole molecule. Despite the logic of this approach, however, the structures minimized by the unconstrained path fit the experimental structures better than those minimized by constrained paths. Moreover, the unconstrained path saved considerable computer time. We also compared the effects of the steepest descents and conjugate gradients algorithms in energy minimization. Previously, steepest descents has been used in the initial stages of minimization and conjugate gradients in the final stages of minimization. We therefore studied the effect on the final structure of performing an initial minimization by steepest descents. The structures minimized by conjugate gradients alone resembled the structures minimized initially by the steepest descents and subsequently by the conjugate gradients algorithms. Thus an initial minimization using steepest descents is wasteful and unnecessary, especially when starting from the crystal structure. Based on these results, we propose the use of an unconstrained path and conjugate gradients for energy minimization of proteins. This procedure results in low energy structures closer to the experimental structures, and saves about 70-80% of computer time. This procedure was applied in building models of lysozyme mutants. The crystal structure of native T4 lysozyme was mutated to three different mutants and the structures were minimized. The minimized structures closely fit the crystal structures of the respective mutants (less than 0.3 A root-mean-square, RMS, deviation in the position of all heavy atoms). These results confirm the efficiency of the proposed minimization strategy in modeling closely related homologs. To determine the reliability of the united atom approximation, we also performed all of the above minimizations with united atom models. This approximation gave structures with similar but slightly higher RMS deviations than the all-atom model, but gave further savings of 60-70% in computer time. However, we feel further investigation is essential to determine the reliability of this approximation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)