cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
APPLICABILITY OF AN OCCUPATIONAL GOAL-EXPECTANCY MODEL IN PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTING ORGANIZATIONS*

A cognitive goal choice model incorporating goal and expectancy constructs is presented to describe and better understand the occupation-position choice decision process. The sample consists of 136 public accountants employed by two large CPA firms. The model is tested using within-subject analysis and a split-sample validation procedure. The findings suggest that the model is useful in explaining and predicting professional accountants' goal choice behavior.
Optical Detection of Magnetic Resonance for a Deep-Level Defect in Silicon

Optical detection of magnetic resonance is reported for the 0.97-eV luminescence in neutron-irradiated silicon. The resonance is of an excited triplet ($S=1$) state of the defect, which is not the radiative state, known to be a singlet ($S=0$). The spectrum is unusual in that it is characteristic of a statically distorted defect (from ${C}_{3v}$ to ${C}_{1h}$), but with residual dynamic tunneling effects where random strain stabilizes mixtures of the static ${C}_{1h}$ distortions. Vacancy-related models previously suggested for the defect are tentatively ruled out.
Squaring down of non-strictly proper systems

In an earlier work, a procedure for squaring down proper systems by static and dynamic compensators has been developed. The compensators designed there have the following properties: (a) they are asymptotically stable; (b) the additional finite zeros induced by them are assignable to the open left half complex plane; and (c) they preserve the fundamental properties such as stabilizability, detectability, infinite zero structure and minimum phase nature of the original system. The earlier design procedure is extended to non-strictly proper systems while retaining all the above-mentioned properties.
Modular code generation from synchronous block diagrams: modularity vs. code size

We study modular, automatic code generation from hierarchical block diagrams with synchronous semantics. Such diagrams are the fundamental model behind widespread tools in the embedded software domain, such as Simulink and SCADE. Code is modular in the sense that it is generated for a given composite block independently from context (i.e., without knowing in which diagrams the block is to be used) and using minimal information about the internals of the block. In previous work, we have shown how modular code can be generated by computing a set of interface functions for each block and a set of dependencies between these functions that is exported along with the interface. We have also introduced a quantified notion of modularity in terms of the number of interface functions generated per block, and showed how to minimize this number, which is essential for scalability. Finally, we have exposed the fundamental trade-off between modularity and reusability (set of diagrams the block can be used in).In this paper we explore another trade-off: modularity vs. code size. We show that our previous technique, although it achieves maximal reusability and is optimal in terms of modularity, may result in code replication and therefore large code sizes, something often unacceptable in an embedded system context. We propose to remedy this by generating code with no replication, and show that this generally results in some loss of modularity. We show that optimizing modularity while maintaining maximal reusability and zero replication is an intractable problem (NP-complete). We also show that this problem can be solved using a simple iterative procedure that checks satisfiability of a sequence of propositional formulas. We report on a new prototype implementation and experimental results. The latter demonstrate the practical interest in our methods.
Weight Gain Does Not Preclude Increased Ubiquitin Conjugation in Skeletal Muscle: An Exploratory Study in Tumor-Bearing Mice

Background and Hypothesis: At least 13 studies have shown that the ubiquitin-proteasome system mediates muscle wasting in weight-losing cancer subjects. We hypothesized that cancer
Spontaneous magnetic order in random dipolar solids

Randomly positioned dipoles tend to align at low temperatures due to interactions with a mean field. Random dipolar positions lead to fluctuations which can inhibit ordering, even at T=0. We show fluctuations dominate the mean field at low densities of dipoles, preventing order at any temperature. At high densities, in contrast, the mean field dominates and ordering is possible.
g J Value for the Atomic Ground State of Fermium

The atomic-beam magnetic-resonance method has been used to measure ${g}_{J}=1.16052\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.00014$ for the atomic ground state of fermium I. An intermediate-coupling calculation with parameters extrapolated from lower actinides, and with corrections for diamagnetic and relativistic effects, yielded the value ${g}_{J}=1.1606$. The agreement between the measured and calculated values of ${g}_{J}$ establishes the fermium ground state as the $^{3}H_{6}$ level of the $5{f}^{12}7{s}^{2}$ configuration. The neutral fermium atoms were obtained by heating Fm${\mathrm{F}}_{3}$ and its Ho${\mathrm{F}}_{3}$ carrier in the presence of ZrC and tungsten.
The influence of Hume on American public administration

This article examines the influence of David Hume’s ideas on American public administration. Hume’s ideas have indirectly, via their impact on modern philosophy, encouraged both support for and criticism of empiricist approaches in public administration. Also Hume’s ideas on constitutionalism, because of their influence on the writings and designs of the founders of the Constitution, provide what is arguably his most important legacy for the practice of public administration.
Modeling Grain Size During Hot Deformation of IN 718

Aerospace gas turbine disks operate in an environment of relatively high stresses caused by centrifugal forces and elevated temperatures. These severe conditions necessitate the need for materials with high temperature strength and good low cycle fatigue resistance. One class of alloys used for this task is the nickel base superalloys, out of which, IN 718 is the most widely used in the aerospace industry. The properties of IN 718 are attributed to the combined effects of the chemistry, heat treatment, and microstructure. The chemistry is tailored not only for solid solution strengthening but also for precipitation hardening developed during heat treatment, which combined with a fine grained microstructure lead to excellent mechanical properties such as low cycle fatigue resistance and elevated temperature strength. The properties of a gas turbine disk are sensitive to the microstructure, in particular the grain size, which is dependent on the processing history. The ability to precisely control the microstructural development during forging is dependent on controlling the process so that the workpiece is deformed within a safe region where no microstructural damage or flow instabilities occur. The microstructural mechanisms during deformation may themselves vary within the age region and it is desirable to determine themmore » within the range of parameters that are commonly used in industrial processing. The objective of this work is to establish a relationship between the grain size and the process control parameters i.e., temperature and strain rate, in the hot working of IN 178.« less
Predictors of outcome for uvulopalatopharyngoplasty.

The objective of this study was to assess the value of preoperative fiberoptic nasopharyngoscopy with the Muller maneuver (FNMM) and cephalometric radiography in predicting response to uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) in patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. Fifty-three such patients having significant obstruction at the soft palatal level and variable degrees of obstruction at the base-of-tongue level underwent both diagnostic procedures before UPPP. Outcome was assessed by the apnea-plus-hypopnea index (AHI) as determined by polysomnography, which was performed before and after surgery. As a group, patients exhibited a significant 10-point reduction in AHI (46.5 to 36.7). However, 17 (32.1%) were judged to be responders as defined by a reduction of the AHI by an increment of 50% or greater with respect to baseline. Of all the cephalometric variables assessed, soft palate length was the only one that differed between responders and nonresponders (45.5 mm versus 42.6 mm, respectively). However, this difference only approached significance (P = .067). Similarly, FNMM results did not discriminate between responders and nonresponders. These results indicate that preoperative cephalometric radiography and FNMM cannot be reliably used to enhance surgical success.
Comparative studies on ebv antigens by immuno‐fluorescence and immunoperoxidase techniques

Three groups of EBV antigens, VCA, MA and EA, were compared by the techniques of electron microscopic immunoperoxidase (IP) and immuno-fluorescence (IF). P3HR-1 and EBV superinfected Raji cells served as targets for labelled sera from patients with BL, NPC and IM or from healthy donors. 125I peroxidase-labelled antibodies were also prepared to determine, autoradiographically, the penetration of the complex into the cell system, and to monitor the incubation and washing procedures. The development of a gentle sedimentation technique proved critical in handling the fragile target cells. VCA and MA were readily identified and localized by both procedures without significant modification of the basic techniques. Indentification of early antigens by IP required modification of the fixation method to include a brief treatment in acetone. The diffuse early antigen (EAD) was found to be associated with cellular ribosomes.
Optimal pricing for a target profit: Case study on a veterinary diagnostic laboratory

Abstract When social sector is with an intention of meeting a target level of profits instead of simply aiming for zero profit or maximizing the profit, a proper pricing policy needs to be set up. At present time, a Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory performs a large number of test on various animal tissues and has never had the appropriate prices for changing these expensive tests. This study presents a model to optimally pricing for firms such as the laboratory with a target profit motive instead of the normally expected maximum profit objective. We make suggestions for the laboratory on the basis of the results obtained and a sensitivity analysis. This model can also help other similar social organizations to define their pricing strategy.
Oppositionists and group norms: The reciprocal influence of whistle-blowers and co-workers

Who blows the whistle — a “loner” or a well-liked “team player”? Which of them is more likely to lead a successful opposition to perceived organizational wrongdoing? The potential influence of co-worker pressures to conform on whistle-blowing activity or the likely effects of whistle-blowing on the group have not been addressed. This paper presents a preliminary model of whistle-blowing as an act of nonconformity. One implication is that the success of an opposition will depend on the characteristics of the whistle-blower and how the complaint is pursued. Specific hypotheses and general suggestions for future research and practice are offered.
Partial Leaching of Granule-Associated Proteins from Rice Starch during Alkaline Extraction and Subsequent Gelatinization

Starch granule-associated proteins, including granule-bound starch synthase (GBSS), were found to be partially lost during alkaline extraction of rice starch. Variability in amount of loss of GBSS and other granule proteins was found among different rice lines. Also, part of the GBSS and other granule proteins leached out during gelatinization of the alkali-extracted rice starch. Confocal laser scanning microscopy revealed that some protein still existed in gelatinized starch granules prepared from starch isolated using alkaline extraction. The starch that retained more GBSS and other granule proteins after alkaline extraction tended to have more protein in the isolated gelatinized starch granules, indicating that proteins resistant to alkaline extraction also tended to resist leaching during gelatinization. The study suggests that leaching of granule-associated proteins may contribute to variations in paste properties of alkali-extracted starches.
A new wide input range high efficiency photovoltaic inverter

This paper investigated the requirements and future trends for photovoltaic inverter. Then a high efficiency dual mode resonant converter is proposed as the MPPT stage for photovoltaic inverter. A detailed analysis for operation features of proposed converter is given where the PV panel characteristics have been considered. The experimental results with PV panels show that the proposed converter can function as MPPT stage well and no shoot through occurs during mode transition. Also the weighted efficiency of a 2kW DC/DC stage is around 97.7%.
What makes a face memorable? The relationship between face memory and emotional state reasoning

Face processing models suggest a neural and functional dissociation exists between processing facial identity and expressive states. This may explain why the relationship between the ability to read emotional meaning from expressive cues and the ability to remember faces based on appearance cues remains a relatively uncharted area of inquiry. One of the fundamental ways that the human face differs from other visual objects is that people read complex social meaning into faces. Thus, we hypothesized that an important part of face memory is the extent to which people read such meaning into faces. Specifically, we predicted that (a) individual differences in the ability to decode emotional messages from expressive faces would be positively associated with the ability to encode and subsequently remember a separate set of neutral faces in the same participants, and (b) that stimulus-level differences in the extent to which a separate group of raters ascribed emotionality to these same neutral faces would also be positively associated with face memory. We report evidence supporting both of these hypotheses. These findings suggest that individual differences in emotional state reasoning from faces, on both the decoder and encoder levels, are meaningfully associated with the ability to remember facial identity.
Reduced interference by gray squirrels with 4-poster deer treatment bait stations by using timed-release bait

When white-tailed deer, Odocoileus virginianus, feed on corn bait dispensed by 4-poster tick control devices, they rub against paint rollers impregnated with acaricide. Gray squirrels, Sciurus carolinensis, also feed on the corn bait in the feeding troughs of 4-posters, but in doing so, leave abundant corn fragments and meal that impede the flow of uneaten corn into the troughs. Large accumulations of fragments and meal adversely affect the operation of 4-posters and their use by deer. A battery-operated closure mechanism controlled by a photo sensor was developed to block the flow of corn into the troughs during the day when squirrels are active and deer infrequently visit 4-posters. The effectiveness of the diurnal corn restriction (DCR) concept and restriction mechanism was tested in a field trial at a tick-infested site in Maryland. DCR effectively eliminated accumulation of whole corn, partially eaten corn and corn meal in corn troughs associated with squirrel feeding. At the same time, deer usage of 4-posters was not diminished. Journal of Vector Ecology 33 (2): 325-332. 2008.
Exposure to Salt and Organic Acids Increases the Ability of Listeria monocytogenes To Invade Caco-2 Cells but Decreases Its Ability To Survive Gastric Stress

maximum cell numbers are not dependent on the alternative sigma factor B in the presence of NaCl and organic acids at concentrations typically found in foods; (ii) growth inhibition of L. monocytogenes through the addition of organic acids is pH dependent; (iii) the ability of L. monocytogenes to invade Caco-2 cells is affected by growth phase, temperature, and the presence of salt and organic acids, with the highest relative invasion capabilities observed for cells grown with SL or NaCl at 37°C and pH 7.4; (iv) growth of L. monocytogenes in the presence of NaCl, SD, or SL reduces its ability to survive exposure to gastric fluid; and (v) exposure of L. monocytogenes to gastric fluid reduces the enhanced invasiveness caused by growth in the presence of NaCl or SL. These findings suggest that virulence-associated characteristics that determine the L. monocytogenes infectious dose are likely to be affected by food-specific properties (e.g., pH or the presence of salt or organic acid).
Interacting with the GALATEA film analysis system

GALATEA is an interactive animated graphics system providing a tool for the man-machine analysis of moving images recorded on film. The system relies on the user's recognition of phenomena of interest and his manipulation of simple graphical objects to build up a kinegram, an animated representationof the film. Display of the kinegram superimposed on the original film facilitates the entry and refinement of the animation. The net result is an analysis by synthesis. In this paper we describe the current production version of GALATEA from the standpoint of the user. Included are a functional description of the constituent hardware, demonstration of various aspects of system behavior, and some examples of interactions common in user applications.
China in the World Market: Chinese Industry and International Sources of Reform in the Post-Mao Era

1. China as a latecomer in world industrial markets 2. The outside world as an impetus for change in China 3. Tailor to the world: China's emergence as a global power in textiles 4. Beating the system with industrial restructuring: China's response to the multifiber arrangement (MFA) 5. China looms large: reform and rationalization in the textile industry 6. Industrial change in the shadow of the MFA: the role of top-level strategy, mid-level intervention, and low-level demand in China's textile industry 7. Chinese shipbuilding: the modest origins of an emerging industrial giant 8. Dangerous currents: navigating boom and bust cycles in international shipbuilding 9. Chinese shipbuilding and global surplus capacity: making a virtue out of necessity 10. Market-oriented solutions for industrial adjustment: the changing pattern of state intervention in Chinese shipbuilding 11. Who did what to whom?: making sense of the reform process in China's shipbuilding industry 12. External shocks, state capacity, and national responses for economic adjustment: explaining industrial change in China 13. China in the contemporary international political economy Appendix: contours of the research effort.
A SIP-based medical event monitoring system

The medical industry is transitioning to Internet-based communication as the field of telemedicine broadens to include medical event monitoring systems. A medical event monitor generates different types of messages and alerts for healthcare providers, institutions and patients. We describe how the Session Initiation Protocol (SIP), a signaling protocol for Internet conferencing, telephony, presence, event notification and instant messaging, can be used to create a medical event monitoring system. SIP can work on a variety of devices; its adoption as the protocol of choice for third generation wireless networks allows for a robust and scalable environment that can easily extend across institutions. First, we describe the basics of SIP and how it can be used for event notifications. Secondly, we describe the use of medical logic modules (MLMs) in a clinical event monitoring system and we propose a SIP medical event monitoring system that can combine the use of MLMs, such as the Arden Syntax, with SIP event notification. We also propose an alternate method of event notification with the use of XML filters to deliver only relevant notifications. Finally, we discuss the different types of devices and wireless protocols that can be incorporated within the system, creating an integrated architecture.
Downregulation of Fasting-Induced cAMP Response Element-Mediated Gene Induction by Leptin in Neuropeptide Y Neurons of the Arcuate Nucleus

States of increased metabolic demand such as fasting modulate hypothalamic neuropeptide gene expression and decrease circulating leptin levels. This study tested the hypotheses that fasting stimulates gene induction mediated by cAMP response element (CRE)-dependent increases in gene transcription and that fasting-induced decreases in leptin can regulate this CRE-mediated gene induction. Using C57BL/6J mice transgenic for a CRE-lacZ construct, an immunocytochemical study showed that fasting activated reporter gene expression in the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus (Arc) in a small subset of neurons and increased phosphorylation of CRE binding protein. The increase of beta-galactosidase expression caused by fasting was inhibited by a protein kinase A inhibitor, Rp-8-Br-cAMPS, when the compound was microinjected into the medial basal hypothalamus, and enhanced by intraperitoneal injection of selective phosphodiesterase inhibitors. In situ hybridization studies showed that neuropeptide Y (NPY) mRNA levels increased in the Arc during fasting, whereas proopiomelanocortin (POMC) mRNA levels decreased. Double labeling of mRNA and beta-galactosidase immunoreactivity in the fasted brain indicated that the subpopulation of the neurons expressing beta-galactosidase all produced NPY but not POMC. To study the possible involvement of decreased circulating leptin during starvation on CRE-mediated gene induction, leptin was administered intraperitoneally to fasted mice. Leptin significantly attenuated both beta-galactosidase expression and NPY gene expression stimulated by fasting, suggesting that leptin inhibits fasting-stimulated NPY gene expression at least in part through downregulation of CRE-mediated gene induction in the Arc. Leptin-induced modification of CRE-mediated gene induction in the Arc may play an essential role in the central regulation of feeding behavior and energy expenditure.
On the State of Coastal Hazards Mapping

Dr. David M. Bush is Assistant Professor in the Department of Geosciences at the State University of West Georgia in Carrollton, GA. Dr. Bush received his BS in Geology from the State University of New York, College at Oneonta, and both his MS and PhD in Geology from Duke University. His graduate research focused on the sediments and storm processes along the northern Puerto Rico shelf and shoreline. He was a post-doctoral Research Associate with the Program for the Study of Developed Shorelines at Duke University for four years. His current research focuses on coastal storm impacts, coastal hazards assessment, risk mapping, and property damage mitigation. He is senior author of Living with the Puerto Rico Shore, Living by the Rules of the Sea , and Living on the Edge of the Gulf: The West Florida and Alabama Coasts. At West Georgia Dr. Bush teaches courses in risk assessment, geomorphology, and oceanography. Rob Young is an Assistant Professor of Geology at Western Carolina University. He received a BS in Geology from the College of …
Research Literature in Occupational Therapy, 2001–2005

One method to determine trends in occupational therapy research is to survey the literature published in occupational therapy journals. This study describes the types and topics of articles published in five promi nent occupational therapy journals over a 5-year span. Feature articles published between 2001 and 2005 were analyzed to determine the types of articles and research and subject areas. The percentage of research articles published between 2001 and 2005 increased from 65% to 78% of all articles published and is higher than previous reports. More than 70% of the research articles used designs that substantially contribute to the evidence base for occupational therapy (defined by Kielhofner, Hammel, Finlayson, Helfrich, & Taylor [2004] as correlational–comparison, experimental, qualitative, and meta-analysis). Of the research articles, 60% addressed pediatric, physical disability, and rehabilitation topics. The 5-year period showed a trend of increasing frequency of geriatric and pediatric topics in research reports. Scholars should emphasize research designs that build the evidence for occupational therapy approaches and practices and focus on research topics of highest value to society.
Total airport and airspace model (TAAM) parallelization combining sequential and parallel algorithms for performance enhancement

This paper describes how to achieve a desired speedup by careful selection of appropriate algorithms for parallelization. Our target simulation is the total airport and airspace model (TAAM), a worldwide standard for aviation analysis. TAAM is designed as a sequential program, and we have increased its speed by incorporating multithreaded algorithms with minimal changes to the underlying simulation architecture. Our method was to identify algorithms that are bottlenecks in the computation and that can be executed concurrently, producing a hybrid sequential and parallel simulation. Our results show a performance gain that varied between 14% and 33%.
Concentrations of monocar☐ylic and dicar☐ylic acids and aldehydes in southern California wet precipitations: Comparison of urban and nonurban samples and compositional changes during scavenging

Rain and snow samples collected at nine southern California sites and time series rain samples obtained during 13 rain events were studied for their content of polar organic compounds, including C1–C9 monocar☐ylic acids, C2– C10 α, ω-dicar☐ylic acids, C1–C2 aldehydes and C2–C3 α-dicarbonyls. Formic (0.1–33 μM), acetic (0.3–24 μM), oxalic (0.2–28 μM), succinic (0.03–7.3 μM) and malonic (0.01–5.5 μM) acids, in addition to formaldehyde (0.3–37 μM), are the dominant species. The concentrations of the monocar☐ylic and dicar☐ylic acids in bulk rain were inversely proportional to the amount of rainfall, however, those of aldehydes remained almost unchanged. The relative abundances of the major compounds are similar among the samples and no significant trend was found to differentiate urban and nonurban samples. However, some minor dissolved components showed different distributions; e.g. phthalic acid/benzoic acid ratios and α-dicarbonyl/aldehyde ratios for urban samples are higher than those of nonurban samples. The monocar☐ylic and dicar☐ylic acids in the bulk rainwaters were found to constitute 11–44% of the measured organic and inorganic anions and are important contributors to the lowering of pH in Los Angeles rain samples. During wet precipitation events, the rain fluxes of the polar organic compound classes, generally decreased as a function of time, suggesting a rapid removal from the air. The concentration ratios of monoacids to aldehydes, diacids to aldehydes and formic acid to acetic acid showed a decrease during early stages of precipitation, suggesting a preferential scavenging of car☐ylic acids over aldehydes and C1 acid over C2 acid.
Mechanisms of oxidative stress and alterations in gene expression by Libby six-mix in human mesothelial cells

Exposures to an amphibole fiber in Libby, Montana cause increases in malignant mesothelioma (MM), a tumor of the pleural and peritoneal cavities with a poor prognosis. Affymetrix microarray/GeneSifter analysis was used to determine alterations in gene expression of a human mesothelial cell line (LP9/TERT-1) by a non-toxic concentration (15×106 μm2/cm2) of unprocessed Libby six-mix and negative (glass beads) and positive (crocidolite asbestos) controls. Because manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD; SOD2) was the only gene upregulated significantly (p < 0.05) at both 8 and 24 h, we measured SOD protein and activity, oxidative stress and glutathione (GSH) levels to better understand oxidative events after exposure to non-toxic (15×106 μm2/cm2) and toxic concentrations (75×106 μm2/cm2) of Libby six-mix. Exposure to 15×106 μm2/cm2 Libby six-mix elicited significant (p < 0.05) upregulation of one gene (SOD2; 4-fold) at 8 h and 111 gene changes at 24 h, including a 5-fold increase in SOD2. Increased levels of SOD2 mRNA at 24 h were also confirmed in HKNM-2 normal human pleural mesothelial cells by qRT-PCR. SOD2 protein levels were increased at toxic concentrations (75×106 μm2/cm2) of Libby six-mix at 24 h. In addition, levels of copper-zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu/ZnSOD; SOD1) protein were increased at 24 h in all mineral groups. A dose-related increase in SOD2 activity was observed, although total SOD activity remained unchanged. Dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (DCFDA) fluorescence staining and flow cytometry revealed a dose- and time-dependent increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) production by LP9/TERT-1 cells exposed to Libby six-mix. Both Libby six-mix and crocidolite asbestos at 75×106 μm2/cm2 caused transient decreases (p < 0.05) in GSH for up to 24 h and increases in gene expression of heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) in LP9/TERT-1 and HKNM-2 cells. Libby six-mix causes multiple gene expression changes in LP9/TERT-1 human mesothelial cells, as well as increases in SOD2, increased production of oxidants, and transient decreases in intracellular GSH. These events are not observed at equal surface area concentrations of nontoxic glass beads. Results support a mechanistic basis for the importance of SOD2 in proliferation and apoptosis of mesothelial cells and its potential use as a biomarker of early responses to mesotheliomagenic minerals.
Pulse Distortion Caused by Cylinder Diffraction and Its Impact on UWB Communications

One of the characteristics of ultrawideband (UWB) signals is pulse distortion, which is inherently determined by their huge bandwidth. Using a cylinder model as an example, pulse distortion and its impacts on UWB system performance have been investigated, based on the closed-form impulse response first derived in this paper. Although a lot of papers have addressed the pulse-distortion issue, quantifying the impacts of pulse distortion on system performance appears to be novel. The simulation results show that the SNR loss caused by template mismatch could reach as high as 4 dB. It is also found that the range error caused by pulse distortion is much larger than the Cramer-Rao lower bound; thus, it is another fundamental source of errors limiting the accuracy of times of arrival of a received signal. These results have direct applications in timing synchronization and positioning.
Sudden Unexpected Death in North Carolina (SUDDEN): methodology review and screening results

Objectives This paper describes the methodology for a prospective, community-based study of sudden unexpected death in Wake County, North Carolina. Methods From 1 March to 29 June 2013, data of presumed cardiac arrest cases were captured from Wake County Emergency Medical Services. Participants were screened into the presumed sudden unexpected death group based on specific and sequential screening criteria, and medical and public records were collected for each participant in this group. A committee of independent cardiologists reviewed all data to determine final inclusion/exclusion of each participant into registry. Results We received 398 presumed cardiac arrest referrals. Of these, 105 participants, age 18–65 years old, were identified as presumed sudden unexpected deaths. The primary reason for exclusion was survival to hospital (38%). Ninety-five per cent of participants in the presumed sudden unexpected death group experienced an unwitnessed death. Hypertension was present in almost 50%, while dyslipidaemia and diabetes mellitus were present in almost 25% of the same group. In addition, the presumed sudden unexpected death group includes 67.6% males (95% CI 58 to 76) whereas the control group only included 58.9% (95% CI 46 to 55) males. Conclusions Participant identification and data collection processes identify presumed sudden unexpected death cases and secure medical and public data for screening and final adjudication. The study infrastructure developed in Wake County will allow its expansion to other counties in North Carolina. Preliminary data indicate the study presently focuses on a population demographically representative of North Carolina.
Making Ribosomes: Pre-rRNA Transcription and Processing

Ribosomes are essential, intricate cellular machines that translate mRNA into protein in all cells. The process of building a ribosome is highly complex. The ribosomal RNA (rRNA) has to be properly synthesized, processed, and assembled with ribosomal proteins in the cell nucleolus. Studies carried out in yeast have significantly increased our understanding of the mechanisms driving ribosome assembly in eukaryotes. This chapter will briefly review ribosome assembly in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and discuss what is known about ribosome assembly in other yeast species.
PEBL: Web page classification without negative examples

Web page classification is one of the essential techniques for Web mining because classifying Web pages of an interesting class is often the first step of mining the Web. However, constructing a classifier for an interesting class requires laborious preprocessing such as collecting positive and negative training examples. For instance, in order to construct a "homepage" classifier, one needs to collect a sample of homepages (positive examples) and a sample of nonhomepages (negative examples). In particular, collecting negative training examples requires arduous work and caution to avoid bias. The paper presents a framework, called positive example based learning (PEBL), for Web page classification which eliminates the need for manually collecting negative training examples in preprocessing. The PEBL framework applies an algorithm, called mapping-convergence (M-C), to achieve high classification accuracy (with positive and unlabeled data) as high as that of a traditional SVM (with positive and negative data). M-C runs in two stages: the mapping stage and convergence stage. In the mapping stage, the algorithm uses a weak classifier that draws an initial approximation of "strong" negative data. Based on the initial approximation, the convergence stage iteratively runs an internal classifier (e.g., SVM) which maximizes margins to progressively improve the approximation of negative data. Thus, the class boundary eventually converges to the true boundary of the positive class in the feature space. We present the M-C algorithm with supporting theoretical and experimental justifications. Our experiments show that, given the same set of positive examples; the M-C algorithm outperforms one-class SVMs, and it is almost as accurate as the traditional SVMs.
Anti-CD43 inhibition of T cell homing.

The homing of lymphocytes from the blood is controlled by specialized processes of lymphocyte–endothelial cell interaction. Interference with these processes offers the potential to manipulate lymphocyte traffic, and thus to modulate normal and pathologic immune and inflammatory responses. We selected antilymphocyte monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) for inhibition of lymphocyte binding in vitro to lymph node high endothelial venules (HEV), specialized vessels that support lymphocyte recruitment into lymph nodes. mAb L11 blocks T cell binding to lymph node and Peyer's patch HEV and inhibits T cell extravasation from the blood into organized secondary lymphoid tissues. In contrast, L11 has no effect on lymphocyte binding to purified vascular ligands for L-selectin, α4β7, or LFA-1, suggesting that it inhibits by a novel mechanism. The L11 antigen is CD43, a sialomucin implicated in vitro in regulation of lymphocyte activation, whose expression is often dysregulated in the Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome. CD43 represents a novel target for experimental and therapeutic manipulation of lymphocyte traffic and may help regulate T cell distribution in vivo.
Detection of lines and boundaries in speckle images-application to medical ultrasound

Describes an approach to boundary detection in ultrasound speckle based on an image enhancement technique. The enhancement algorithm works by filtering the image with "sticks", short line segments which are varied in orientation to achieve the maximum projected value at each point. In this paper, we present three significant extensions to improve the performance of the basic method. First, we investigate the effect of varying the size and shape of the sticks. We show that these variations affect the performance of the algorithm in very fundamental ways, for example by making it more or less sensitive to thinner or more tightly curving boundaries. Second, we present a means of improving the performance of this technique by estimating the distribution function of the orientation of the line passing through each point. Finally, we show that images can be "stained" for easier visual interpretation by applying to each pixel a false color whose hue is related to the orientation of the most prominent line segment at that point. Examples are given to illustrate the performance of the different settings on a single image.
Successful strategies for hand-rearing underdeveloped Okapi Okapia johnstoni: a case study at Cincinnati Zoo

The aim of publishing this paper is to add to the knowledge and aid hand-rearing of Okapi Okapia johnstoni in captivity. The calf in this case study had a mass of 10.92 kg at birth (expected mean mass at birth c. 19.6 kg, n= 7) and by the time it was 3 hours old it had not nursed or stood on its own. Hand-rearing strategies discussed include: plasma transfer, development and testing of a new milk formula for neonates, the need for interspecies interaction and successful reintroduction to the adult group. Miscellaneous medical procedures are also considered.
Synthesis of nanoelectronic circuits on delay-insensitive cellular arrays

The difficulties of designing nanoscale circuits include the need for regular circuit structure and controlling the timing requirements. A cellular array has highly regular structure. The cells are adjacent to each other and are able to process signals based on simple transition rules. In delay-insensitive circuits the delay on a signal path does not affect circuit behavior. The combination of delay-insensitive circuit style and cellular arrays makes it possible to implement nanoscale circuits. This paper proposes a technique to synthesize and implement logic functions in Reed-Muller form onto cellular arrays. The resulting circuits have delay-insensitivity and high modularity.
Construction of a Llama Bacterial Artificial Chromosome Library with Approximately 9-Fold Genome Equivalent Coverage

The Ilama is an important agricultural livestock in much of South America. The llama is increasing in popularity in the United States as a companion animal. Little work has been done to improve llama production using modern technology. A paucity of information is available regarding the llama genome. We report the construction of a llama bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) library of about 196,224 clones in the vector pECBAC1. Using flow cytometry and bovine, human, mouse, and chicken as controls, we determined the llama genome size to be 2 . 4 × 1 0 9 bp. The average insert size of the library is 137.8 kb corresponding to approximately 9-fold genome coverage. Further studies are needed to further characterize the library and llama genome. We anticipate that this new library will help facilitate future genomic studies in the llama.
The “Devil Theory” One More Time

Organized labor membership as a percentage of the labor force has been doing poorly during recent decades. Many managers still do not appreciate that union fortunes are closely related to workers' perceptions of their overall well-being. The “Devil Theory” of unions, i.e., they are “punishment” for employer insensitivity or worse, contains at least a grain of truth. Perceived job insecurity, unfairness and ill treatment generally—stimulated by new AFL-CIO leadership committed to active organizing—could well reverse a decades-long trend in union membership losses.
Protection of embryonated eggs infected with infectious bronchitis or Newcastle disease virus by polypeptides.

ConclusionPolylysine was found to exert a marked protective effect in embryonated eggs subsequently infected with recently isolated infectious bronchitis virus. This protective effect was significantly less after several egg passages and with strains of infectious bronchitis which were completely egg adapted. Embryonated eggs infected with Newcastle disease virus were also protected by polylysine.
The acute care physical therapy HIV/AIDS patient population: a descriptive study

This study was based on an analysis of an existing database compiled from 475 medical records of people living with HIV/AIDS admitted to an acute-care hospital in New York City in 2004. The characteristics of patients with HIV infection that received physical therapy were determined. Differences between patients with HIV infection that did and did not receive physical therapy, as well as predictors of receipt of physical therapy, were identified. The physical therapy subgroup (n = 69) had a mean age of 48.3 years, consisted of more men than women, and was predominately black, with public health insurance. Admissions were commonly due to non-AIDS-defining illness as the primary diagnoses, accompanied by several comorbidities. Admissions often presented with functional deficits, incurred a prolonged length of stay, and required assistance at discharge. Differences existed between the physical therapy subgroup and the non-physical therapy subgroup (n = 406). Predictors of receipt of physical therapy were functional status on admission and length of stay.
Further evidence for the regulation of acetyl-CoA carboxylase activity by a glutamate- and magnesium-activated protein phosphatase in the pancreatic beta cell: defective regulation in the diabetic GK rat islet.

We previously identified and characterized a glutamateand magnesium-sensitive PP2A-like phosphatase (GAPP), which dephosphorylated and activated acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) in the islet β cell. Herein, we studied potential regulatory mechanisms by which GAPP is activated by glutamate and magnesium, and also quantitated the degree of activation, by glutamate- and magnesium, of ACC in normal rat islets and islets derived from the diabetic Goto-Kakizaki (GK) rat, a model for type 2 diabetes in humans. Our findings indicate that magnesium, but not glutamate, specifically activates the post-translational carboxylmethylation (CML) of the 36 kDa catalytic subunit of GAPP. Okadaic acid (OKA), which inhibits GAPP-mediated activation of ACC, also reduced the magnesium-stimulated CML of the catalytic subunit of GAPP in all the β cell preparations studied. These data suggest that the CML step may be necessary for magnesium- and glutamate-mediated activation of ACC. We also observed a marked attenuation in magnesium-and glutamate-facilitated activation of ACC activity in islets derived from the GK rat. Together, our findings raise an interesting possibility that inhibition of GAPP-catalyzed inactivation of ACC (and subsequent reduction in the generation of long-chain fatty acids) could contribute toward the abnormalities in insulin secretion demonstrable in this animal model for type 2 diabetes.
Vibrational Mismatch of Metal Leads Controls Thermal Conductance of Self-Assembled Monolayer Junctions

We present measurements of the thermal conductance of self-assembled monolayer (SAM) junctions formed between metal leads (Au, Ag, Pt, and Pd) with mismatched phonon spectra. The thermal conductance obtained from frequency domain thermoreflectance experiments is 65 ± 7 MW/m2 K for matched Au–alkanedithiol–Au junctions, while the mismatched Au–alkanedithiol–Pd junctions yield a thermal conductance of 36 ± 3 MW/m2 K. The experimental observation that junction thermal conductance (per molecule) decreases as the mismatch between the lead vibrational spectra increases, paired with results from molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, suggest that phonons scatter elastically at the metal–SAM interfaces. Furthermore, we resolve a known discrepancy between measurements and MD predictions of SAM thermal conductance by using a contact mechanics model to predict 54 ± 15% areal contact in the Au–alkanedithiol–Au experimental junction. This incomplete contact obscures the actual junction thermal conductance of 115 ± 22 MW...
One for Ten Dollars, Two for Thirty: The Value of the National Flood Insurance Program Dwelling Policy for the Insured

Attaching “national” to flood insurance is a strange concept, if one really thinks about it. Insurance protection against flood damage is quite a different beast on coastal Long Island, New York, and Florida, than, say, an area within a desert climate in the southwest United States. Yet, geography does not play a role in the standard flood policy’s terms and conditions. A one-size-fits-all national program is what we have. Ninety percent of all natural disasters in the United States are flood-related, 1
Ownership Status and Length of Stay in Skilled Nursing Facilities Does Endogeneity Matter

In 1998, Medicare implemented the Prospective Payment System for post-acute care provided by skilled nursing facilities. This system paid a fixed price per day above the cost of care, creating an incentive to provide longer length of stays to increase revenues. In this paper, we examine whether there are systematic differences in length of stay for post-acute care patients between for-profit and not-for-profit skilled nursing facilities. Based on the financial incentives inherent in the reimbursement system, we develop a conceptual framework that argues for-profits will provide a greater number of days of care to increase profits relative to not-for-profits. We find significant differences in length of stay by ownership, but once patient selection into a facility is accounted for using two-staged residual inclusion, there is no statistical differences in length of stay between for-profit and not-for-profit facilities.
Epidemic Analysis of 266 Cases With Bacterial Meningitis or Encephalitis

Objective To provide scientific evidence for the similar nationwide study by understanding the epidemic characteristics and pathogeny spectrum of bacterial meningitis and encephalitis.Methods Cases with bacterial meningitis and encephalitis were investigated,with the blood samples and/ or CSF samples from surveillance cases were collected for laboratory testing.Results From the May,2007 to December,2010,266 cases was reported and investigated.The male-to-female ratio was 1.56∶1,the average age of cases was 8.7 years old,and 73.7% of cases were children under 10 years old.Cases occurred all the year round,with no obvious seasonal peak.19.9% of cases had been vaccinated at least one of vaccines among encephalitis vaccine,meningococcal vaccine and Hib vaccine.92.4% of cases used the antibiotics before the collection of samples.The main bacterial pathogeny spectrum of laboratory-confirmed bacterial meningitis/encephalitis cases were Streptococcus pneumoniae,Cryptococcus neoformans,Neisseria catarrhalis and Hib.Conclusion The epidemic characteristics and pathogeny spectrum is preliminary understood.It may provide the experience for the national surveillance of bacterial meningitis or encephalitis and other syndrome.