cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Corrosion and Deposits from Combustion of Solid Waste—Part VII: Coincineration of Refuse and Sewage Sludge

Corrosion probe exposures were conducted in the Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, incinerator to determine the effects of burning low-chloride sewage sludge with municipal refuse. Probes having controlled temperature gradients were used to measure corrosion rates for exposure times up to 816 hours. The effects of exposure time, metal temperature, and gas temperature were studied. The results demonstrated that the addition of the sludge reduced the initial corrosion rates of carbon and low-alloy steels to about half that from refuse alone. Little effect was observed on the rates for Types 310 and 347 stainless steels. An aluminized coating on steel resisted corrosion effectively and offers promise as a cost-effective substitute for expensive alloys. In the range 500–900° F the corrosion rates of carbon steel and T22 increased with temperature while those for the stainless steels decreased. Reducing the flue gas temperature from 1500° F to 1100° F reduced corrosion rates significantly and made them less dependent on metal temperature. The addition of low-chloride sludge to refuse is recommended as a corrosion prevention measure and a waste disposal technique.
Modeling the dynamics of DNA electrophoresis on a flat surface

We use molecular dynamics simulations to study the mechanism by which a flat, homogeneous surface can serve as an electrophoretic separation medium for DNA. We find that the mobility of DNA on the surface is a function of the conformation of the adsorbed DNA molecule, and that this mobility is controlled by the attraction between the DNA and the surface. Our results will provide guidelines for the fabrication of surfaces that can be used to separate DNA in a wide size range.
An enzyme-centric approach for modelling non-linear biological complexity

The current challenge of Systems Biology is to integrate high throughput data sets for simulating the complexity of biological networks, exploit the evolution of nature-designed networks that maintain the robustness of a biological system, and thereby generate novel, experimentally testable hypotheses. In order to simulate non-linear biological complexities, we have previously developed an Enzyme-Centric mechanistic modeling approach and validated it using metabolic network in E. coli. The idea is to use prior knowledge of catalytic and regulatory mechanisms of each enzyme within the metabolic network to build a dynamic model for investigating the network level regulation and thus understand the nature design principle behind the network. In this paper, we further demonstrate the application of complex enzyme catalytic and regulatory modules to simulate nonlinear network regulatory patterns vs. simple linear conversion model. We learned and validated that it is essential to incorporate prior knowledge from the literature to simulate non-linear biological complexities. The network expandability is demonstrated and validated with the complex amino acid biosynthetic network with multi-regulations. Also, we demonstrated the compatibility of mechanistic models within close species. Furthermore, the eukaryotic protein factory model for insuring steady mRNA production is simulated and the coupling of RNA transcription and splicing is validated by both mathematical simulation and experimental analysis. We demonstrated the importance of modeling complex enzyme catalytic and regulatory mechanisms to further understand nonlinear network regulatory patterns. The simulations presented in this paper reveal how a living system maintains homeostasis and its robustness to continue functioning while facing environmental stresses or genetic mutations.
Utility of Heidelberg retinal tomography as a screening tool for analyzing retinal nerve fiber layer defects.

CONTEXT Although Heidelberg retinal tomography (HRT)-generated topographic images have been studied extensively for the detection of retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) defects, little is known about the role of HRT-generated surface reflectivity images in the detection of RNFL defects in either patients with glaucoma or glaucoma suspects. AIMS To evaluate the effectiveness of HRT version II (HRT II) optic nerve reflectivity images in uncovering RNFL defects in an outpatient population evaluated for glaucoma. STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS In 102 consecutive eyes from 60 patients evaluated for glaucoma in an academic-based practice, HRT II optic nerve images were prospectively imaged and compared with clinical optic nerve exam techniques to see if HRT II was able to detect RNFL defects overlooked in clinical practice. RESULTS Nine eyes (8.8%) were found to have RNFL defects recognized by screening with HRT II. Of these nine eyes, eight (88.9%) were recognized to demonstrate RNFL defects by conventional examination techniques. One additional eye had an RNFL defect seen on physical exam that was not detected by HRT. CONCLUSION In academic practice, HRT II may be helpful in complementing conventional exam techniques in the recognition and documentation of acquired RNFL loss.
Scholarly Knowledge Development and Dissemination in an International Context: Approaches and Tools for Higher Education.

This paper looks at the process of collaboratively creating and disseminating information resources, such as journals, books, papers, and multimedia resources in higher education. This process has been facilitated and encouraged by two relatively new movements, open-source and, especially, open access. The most definitive expression of the principles of open access is the Budapest Open Access Initiative. It calls for the creation of journals that are freely available via the Internet to anyone. The broad principles of open access can be the foundation for creating many types of information resources–from online textbooks to sophisticated instructional videos. What distinguishes such open access resources is that they are distributed without charge to users and that most of the individual and institutional authors give permission for them to be revised, remixed, and reformed by users, who may then distribute the “new” version of the resource. Much of the work on open access information resources is collabo...
Simulating nonsorted circle development in arctic tundra ecosystems

[1] Nonsorted circles, ubiquitous to the Arctic Tundra region, are patterned ground features with circular semibarren areas surrounded by vegetation. These circles are formed and persist as an ecosystem due to complex soil-water-energy-ice-plant relationships and dynamics in the Arctic. In this paper, we present the first model that captures the dynamics of the physical and biological components of the nonsorted circle ecosystem in order to understand its formation and persistence, especially in a changing climatic environment. We have applied a coupled model describing (1) vegetation dynamics (ArcVeg) and (2) coupled heat and moisture transport with phase change (WIT) in the active layer of the soil where such circles are initiated and developed. We simulated the system behavior during the formation process starting with a random vegetation development. The vegetation provided heterogeneous insulation to the soil surface. During freezing, the noninsulated areas froze first, resulting in preferential ice accumulation in those areas. The ice prevented the vegetation from developing further in those areas and thus developed and stabilized the nonsorted circle pattern. The model produced a nonsorted circle pattern that was well compared to those observed in the field. The model also illustrated that the availability of water was critical for the sustenance and stability of the nonsorted circle. The effect of climatic variations on the freezing process on the other hand did not seem to affect the formation and sustenance of nonsorted circles.
Intraventricular B-cell lymphoma from the breast

We report an unusual case of massive intraventricular spread of B-cell lymphoma of the breast, presenting with rapidly progressive ataxia and impaired cognition with need for ventriculostomy. Rapid resolution followed intravenous dexamethasone and radiation therapy.
Social Networking Web Sites Teaching Appropriate Social Competence to Students With Emotional and Behavioral Disorders

The Internet has opened a variety of different avenues for people to interact with each other. As new digital environments are developed, new sets of social skills are needed to appropriately interact. Students with emotional and behavioral disorders often have deficits in social competence and require specialized training in specific social skills to appropriately participate in specific situations. For students with emotional and behavioral disorders to access the academic and social benefits of social networking Web sites, it is important that the skills for these new environments be taught to them. This article covers ways that classroom teachers can address this need.
The prognostic value of CXCR4 in acute myeloid leukemia.

BACKGROUND CXC chemokine receptor (CXCR4) has been shown to be expressed in a subset of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients and is correlated with a poor prognosis. CXCR4 expression appears to be an independent prognostic factor for survival in a heterogeneous group of AML patients. To better assess its significance, we analyzed CXCR4 expression in a group of AML patients. METHODS The prognostic value of CXCR4 expression in 53 patients with AML presenting between 2003 and 2008 was analyzed. Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded bone marrow biopsy or clot sections were stained using immunohistochemical methods. RESULTS CXCR4 was expressed in 26 patients (49.1%). A patient age of less than 60 years (P=0.023), achievement of complete remission after induction therapy (P<0.001), and no CXCR4 expression (P=0.010) were all associated with better progression-free survival (PFS). Among mutations of NPM1, CEBPA, FLT3 ITD, and FLT3 D835 and expression of CXCR4, only CXCR4 expression was associated with PFS (P=0.010; by log-rank test). By multivariate analysis, CXCR4 expression was an independent prognostic factor (P=0.001 for PFS and P=0.001 for overall survival). CXCR4 expression in patients with a normal karyotype was detected in 15 of 22 patients (68.2%, relative ratio 4.46, P=0.035). Expression of CXCR4 in normal-karyotype AML showed inferior PFS (median 2.0 vs. 10.7 mo, P=0.026) and had a trend toward inferior overall survival (median 10.8 vs. 14.0 mo, P=0.058). CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that CXCR4 expression is associated with poor prognosis in patients with AML. Specifically, CXCR4 expression is common in normal-karyotype AML and is a marker of more aggressive disease in this population. CXCR4 expression could be incorporated into the risk assessment of patients with AML.
Gaze stabilization in active vision—II. Multi-rate vergence control

Abstract Vergence error extraction and vergence servo control is important issues in gaze stabilization. In the previous paper, ‘Purposeful Gazing for Active Vision 1: Vergence Error Extraction’, we have discussed the techniques in fixation point selection and the phase-based vergence disparity extraction algorithm. In this paper, we introduce a feedback information prediction and dynamic vision-based self-tuning control strategy to achieve vergence control. This strategy reflects the nature and function of visual processing involved in vergence control loop and tends to correct some confusion in existing vision-based control system development.
Cretaceous mammals of southern Utah. I. Marsupials from the Kaiparowits Formation (Judithian)

Marsupial mammals are herein described from the Kaiparowits Formation of southcentral Utah, of probable Judithian (Campanian, Late Cretaceous) age. New materials of Iqualadelphis lactea, previously...
Detection of Gaseous and Particulate Fluorides by Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy:

Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) was evaluated for the detection of gaseous and particulate fluorides in air and other gas mixtures. Analytical figures of merit were compared in pure air, pure He, air-He mixtures, and air with a He sheath flow. Particulate samples were also collected on filters and subsequently detected. It was demonstrated that SF6 is a suitable surrogate for calibration and optimization for the detection of HF in air. For gaseous F in air, limits of detection obtained were 40 mg/m3 for the direct measurement in air and 5 mg/m3 when the air sample was sheathed in He. For particulate F in air, limits of detection were 9 mg/m3 for direct measurement in air and 0.5 mg/m3 using He sheath flow. When the particulates were preconcentrated by collection on a filter and subsequently analyzed, the limit of detection for F was improved to 5 μg/m3 for a 10-min sampling time at 10 L/min flow rate using subsequent LIBS measurements in pure He.
Asymptotic value of the pair distribution near a wall

We calculate the asymptotic value of the pair probability density ρ2(r2, r1) for finding a fluid particle at a point r2 far in the interior of a fluid, when it is known that there is a particle at r1 in contact with the walls (rigid) of the container. This value is different from the well‐known expression for the asymptotic value of ρ2(r2, r1) when both r2 and r1 are in the interior of the fluid. Our derivation is based on the virial theorem for total momentum fluctuations in an equilibrium system and makes use of the assumption that there are no long range correlations in a fluid. Application is made of our result to re‐derive simply the expression for the second virial coefficient and the exact equation of state of a hard‐sphere gas in one dimension. Quantum systems are also treated.
Correlation between the Electron Gas Bulk Modulus and c 12 − c 44 of Monovalent Metals

When the shear elastic constants of the monovalent metals are assumed to be due to central forces, the deviation from the Cauchy relations of elasticity can be attributed to the bulk modulus of the electron gas. This modulus may be calculated from the total gas energy using the exchange and correlation contributions due to GellMann and Brueckner (GB) and to Fletcher and Larson (FL). The bulk modulus of Cu based on the FL energies is found to agree quantitatively with the experimental c/sub 12/-c/sub 44/ and to have also the correct volume dependence from 0 to 300 deg K. The bulk modulus of the Na gas at 300 deg K based on the exchange and correlation energies of GB agrees within 6% with c/sub 12/-- c/sub 44/ observed. Comparisons are also made for Ag but no agreement is found. These correlations seem inconsistent in that the same formula should work for both Cu and Na if there are central forces, and the GB result should work for neither because it is supposed to be invalid in the range of real metallic densities. The correlations provide no final criteria for the determination of the proper exchange and correlation energies of themore » electron gas. (auth)« less
Neurotensin injected into the nucleus accumbens blocks the psychostimulant effects of cocaine but does not attenuate cocaine self-administration in the rat

Abstract The neuropeptide neurotensin (NT) has been shown to modulate mesolimbic dopaminergic activity. Neurotensin injected into the VTA produces motor stimulation and release of dopamine in the nucleus accumbens. In contrast, when neurotensin is administered into the nucleus accumbens, it produces neuroleptic-like effects such as attenuation of the locomotor activity elicited by psychostimulants. In the present study, the hypothesis that neurotensin injected into the nucleus accumbens might modulate the psychostimulant and reinforcing actions of cocaine was tested. In experiment one, rats were trained to self-administer cocaine intravenously on an FR5 schedule of reinforcement. Following the establishment of baseline responding, rats were implanted with bilateral cannulae in the nucleus accumbens. One week later, rats were injected into the nucleus accumbens with various doses of neurotensin (4.2, 8.4 and 16.7 μg, total doses bilaterally) immediately prior to the self-administration session. No significant effects were found with any of the doses of neurotensin tested on the self-administration of cocaine. However, in experiment 2, neurotensin at doses of 4.2 and 16.7 μg injected into the nucleus accumbens significantly reduced the locomotor activation induced by an acute injection of cocaine (15 mg/kg i.p.) and a dose of 16.7 μg attenuated the locomotor activation induced by amphetamine (0.75 mg/kg i.p.). Thus, neurotensin in the nucleus accumbens appears to specifically modulate the acute locomotor activating properties of cocaine but not cocaine self-administration. Different mechanisms by which NT interacts with dopamine in the nucleus accumbens may provide a means of selectively altering psychostimulant motor actions without affecting psychostimulant reinforcement.
Relation Between Amygdala Structure and Function in Adolescents With Bipolar Disorder

Abstract Objective Previous study supports the presence of reduced volume and elevated response to emotional stimuli in amygdala in adolescents with bipolar disorder (BD). In the present study, structural and functional magnetic resonance imaging scans were obtained during the same neuroimaging session to examine amygdala structure-function relations in adolescents with BD. We hypothesized that amygdala volume would be inversely associated with amygdala response to emotional stimuli, such that BD participants with the smallest amygdala volumes would exhibit the highest amygdala response. Method Fifty-one adolescents (21 with BD I and 30 control adolescents, ages 10-18 years) underwent structural and functional magnetic resonance imaging scans. Amygdala volume ( n = 49) and signal change ( n = 44) during emotional face processing were compared between groups, and structure-function correlations were examined within the BD group ( n = 16). Results Adolescents with BD showed decreased amygdala volume ( p = .009) and increased amygdala response to emotional faces ( p = .043). There was no significant interaction between diagnosis and emotion type. A significant inverse association between amygdala volume and activation during emotional face processing was observed ( r = −0.54, p = .029). Conclusions Decreased volume and increased response to emotional stimuli in the amygdala in adolescents with BD are consistent with previous reports. This study represents the first report, to our knowledge, of the two findings in the same adolescent BD sample and supports an amygdala structure-function relation characterized by an inverse association between volume and response to emotional stimuli. This preliminary finding requires replication and suggests a possible pathophysiological link between abnormalities in amygdala structure and response to emotional stimuli in BD. J. Am. Acad. Child Adolesc. Psychiatry ,2009;48(6):636-642.
Field-adapted method for high-performance thin-layer chromatographic detection and estimation of chloroquine and desethylchloroquine in urine.

Abstract A high-performance thin-layer chromatographic (HPTLC) method which can be used in remote field locations lacking electricity has been developed for selective and sensitive detection and estimation of chloroquine (Cq), desethylchloroquine (DECq) and two other antimalarial compounds in urine. The method requires a single extraction step and has a detection limit of 0.25 μg/ml for both Cq and DECq. The HPTLC method was coupled with a colorimetric field assay for Cq and metabolites in urine and a field-interfaced, laboratory-based, high-performance liquid chromatographic assay of Cq and DECq in finger-stick blood to survey antimalarial drug use practices in Esmeraldas Province in northwestern Ecuador. Fourteen of 66 patients from whom urine samples were obtained were found to have detectable Cq and DECq. Results of the three assays are compared for these individuals, and the role of the HPTLC method in field studies is assessed.
Flying the flag for the En-ger-land: The Sun's (re)construction of English identity during the 2010 World Cup

The 2010 Federation Internationale de Football Association World Cup, held in South Africa, was a mega sport tourism event. In the nation that claims to be the ‘home of football’, following the progress of the English team and their supporters during the World Cup garners exhaustive newspaper coverage and helps shape the national consciousness about English national identity. Accordingly, this study examined how English national identity was (re)constructed through newspaper narratives about the English national football team and their ‘army’ of supporters, many of whom traveled to South Africa as sport tourists, during the 2010 World Cup. Articles in England's best selling popular newspaper The Sun were examined and interpreted drawing on Guibernau's [(2007) The Identity of Nations (Cambridge: Polity)] strategies for the construction of national identity, Anderson' s [(1983) Imagined Communities: Reflections on the Origin and the Spread of Nationalism (London: Verso)] theory of the imagined community, an...
Preventive therapies of pediatric migraine

Migraine headaches are a common neurological condition in children and adolescents. Frequent headaches can negatively impact a child's school attendance and leisure activities. Secondary effects can be disruptive to family dynamics with parental work absences and stress involved in caring for an ill child. Preventive therapies for pediatric migraine have not been well studied and reproducible data from clinical trials is notable for its paucity in the neurological literature. Antihistamines, B-blockers, and other older therapies have limited data. Many of the newer therapies have been developed from anti-epileptic drugs, which have reproducible safety data from pediatric epilepsy trials. This has generated further interest in evaluation of these newer agents such as topiramate and levetiracetam. However, for children and adolescents who will require preventive therapy to decrease migraine frequency; there is little evidence available for clinicians from randomized controlled trials. Drug Dev Res 68:350–354, 2007. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Variable selection when missing values are present: a case study

We consider variable selection when missing values are present in the predictor variables. We compare using complete cases with multiple imputation using backward selection (backwards stepping) and least angle regression. These are studied using a data set from a rheumatological disease (myositis). We find that the coefficients are slightly different and the estimated standard errors are smaller in the complete cases (not a surprise). This seems to be due to the fact that because the estimated residual variance is small the complete cases are more homogeneous than the full data cases.
Gonadal stromal tumor in black male

Abstract A twentyy five-year-old black male presented with a right testicular mass which had progressively increased in size over three years. He was in good health and noted no other general abnormalities. Taking all malignant precautions, excisional biopsy of the lesion revealed gonadal stromal tumor by frozen section. The testis was left in situ, and the patient has continued to remain asymptomatic.
The indirect impact of casual dining on low-end gaming in destination and local casinos

Abstract The role of casino amenities is an important issue for casino operators and developers seeking to maximize gaming revenues, space utilization, and return-on-investment. The indirect impact of casual restaurant covers on low-denomination slot volume and cash table drop was investigated using daily data from two casinos. One casino primarily served local repeat customers while the other catered to a drive-in tourist business. Using estimates from time-series regression analysis, restaurant covers were significantly related to gaming volumes. The impact of dining volume on low-end slot play was especially strong in the local market casino, resulting in a substantial financial contribution.
Commentary: Soda taxes, obesity, and the shifty behavior of consumers

Rising obesity is a threat to public health, and taxing sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) in order to reduce consumption and thus caloric intake could be a viable policy response. But raising the price of SSB calories will raise the quantity demanded of relatively cheaper calories, and net effect on obesity is unclear. I review the evidence on shifting calorie demand and discuss the viability of soda taxes to achieve improvements in public health.
The effect of a large SWNT diameter distribution on cesium intercalation

Abstract Vapor-phase intercalation of a single-walled carbon nanotube sample with Cs was carried out and monitored in situ by Raman spectroscopy. Results indicate that the endpoint of the intercalation was limited by small interstitial gaps in the nanotube bundles. These small-diameter gaps are present because of the significant number of small-diameter nanotubes (0.9–1.0 nm, as calculated from Raman radial breathing mode frequencies) present in the sample. It is not possible to determine from our Raman spectra whether the early endpoint is the result of diffusion limitation or the equilibrium energetics at the endpoint, although some diffusion limitation is observed near the beginning of the reaction. A simple geometric model for expansion of the nanotube bundles under intercalation is presented; this model reproduces, reasonably well, measured expansions reported by others and explains both diffusion- and equilibrium-limited mechanisms in terms of the larger lattice expansion required for smaller-diameter nanotubes. Staging of the intercalation process, in analogy with the staged intercalation of graphite intercalation compounds, is not observed. Instead, the transverse mode peaks undergo a gradual decrease in intensity and a gradual charge transfer- and electronic coupling-induced downshift.
A Model of Radical Career Change in the Context of Psychosocial Development.

The goal of this study was to gain an understanding of the process of radical career change as experienced in the context of an individual's life history and personal development. Lifespan intervie...
High resolution melting applications for clinical laboratory medicine

Separation of the two strands of DNA with heat (melting) is a fundamental property of DNA that is conveniently monitored with fluorescence. Conventional melting is performed after PCR on any real-time instrument to monitor product purity (dsDNA dyes) and sequence (hybridization probes). Recent advances include high resolution instruments and saturating DNA dyes that distinguish many different species. For example, mutation scanning (identifying heterozygotes) by melting is closed-tube and has similar or superior sensitivity and specificity compared to methods that require physical separation. With high resolution melting, SNPs can be genotyped without probes and more complex regions can be typed with unlabeled hybridization probes. Highly polymorphic HLA loci can be melted to establish sequence identity for transplantation matching. Simultaneous genotyping with one or more unlabeled probes and mutation scanning of the entire amplicon can be performed at the same time in the same tube, vastly decreasing or eliminating the need for re-sequencing in genetic analysis. High resolution PCR product melting is homogeneous, closed-tube, rapid (1-5 min), non-destructive and does not require covalently-labeled fluorescent probes. In the clinical laboratory, it is an ideal format for in-house testing, with minimal cost and time requirements for new assay development.
Numerical simulation of three-dimensional saturated flow in randomly heterogeneous porous media

This paper presents a numerical method for simulating flow fields in a stochastic porous medium that satisfies locally the Darcy equation, and has each of its hydraulic parameters represented as one realization of a three-dimensional random field. These are generated by using the Turning Bands method. Our ultimate objective is to obtain statistically meaningful solutions in order to check and extend a series of approximate analytical results previously obtained by a spectral perturbation method (L. W. Gelhar and co-workers). We investigate the computational aspects of the problem in relation with stochastic concepts. The difficulty of the numerical problem arises from the random nature of the hydraulic conductivities, which implies that a very large discretized algebraic system must be solved. Indeed, a preliminary evaluation with the aid of scale analysis suggests that, in order to solve meaningful flow problems, the total number of nodes must be of the order of 106. This is due to the requirement that Δxi ≪ gli ≪ Li, where Δxi is the mesh size, λi is a typical correlation scale of the inputs, and Li is the size of the flow domain (i = 1, 2, 3). The optimum strategy for the solution of such a problem is discussed in relation with supercomputer capabilities. Briefly, the proposed discretization method is the seven-point finite differences scheme, and the proposed solution method is iterative, based on prior approximate factorization of the large coefficient matrix. Preliminary results obtained with grids on the order of one hundred thousand nodes are discussed for the case of steady saturated flow with highly variable, random conductivities.
A simple linear weighting scheme for Black-Scholes implied volatilities: A note

Abstract This study presents a piecewise linear weighting function for implied volatilities calculated from Black-Scholes call and put prices. A sensitivity analysis is conducted to compare Black-Scholes prices calculated using the weighted implied volatilities to American model prices. The analysis indicates that a relatively simple European model can provide close approximations to American prices.
THE EUCALYPT IN THE SIERRA OF SOUTHERN PERU

In the 180 years since the first Australian eucalypt was described, the genus has achieved global distribution. Prominent among the early introductions was Eucalyptus globulus, the Blue Gum. This species reached the Peruvian Sierra in the latter half of the nineteenth century. It was first planted by Franciscan friars and upper class landowners, and then became a dooryard plant of the landowning peasantry. The tree has become an integral part of the material culture. It is the basic source of construction material and mine timbers, supplanting native woods in the former case and imported wood in the latter. The pattern of the eucalypt on the landscape is dynamically changing in response to increasing demand for wood by the mining companies and local builders of rustic housing.
Initial data for n black holes

Abstract The initial-value problem for N black holes with arbitrary positions, masses, spins and momenta is considered. The momentum constraints are solved on two conformally flat, isometric sheets conneted by N bridges, Solution of the hamiltonian constraint as a semi-linear elliptic boundary-value problem will yield the conformal factor.
From computer geometry to manufacturing algorithms

Abstractly, machining a shape is rather a simple task, that is, one is merely asked to subtractively metamorphose a superset of stock material into the ultimate shape of a given geometric model. In practice, however, there are a multitude of technical considerations that make automating this process rather a formidable and generally unsolved problem. This presentation will discuss some of the practical and technical considerations of machining a desired shape from a block of stock material. When a realistic cost function is introduced where literally Stime is money, T formulating a winning strategy for efficiently eliminating material while optimizing cutter path times as well as automatic tool changes becomes a complex matter involving much mathematical richness. Just as computer architecture affects computing complexity analysis, so machine tool architecture can significantly alter the cost functions and corresponding strategies of various manufacturing algorithms. Finally, the quality of the desired finish, the closeness of the approximation, as it were, has a major influence on what strategies emerge as superior. Further, new technologies are changing the fundamental cost functions so that new strategies are called for. Many examples and some video will be presented to illustrate the issues, especially in cases that may not be intuitive to the uninitiated. No prior manufacturing experience will be assumed for this talk.
The potential utility of a shared medical record in a “first-time” stroke population

This preliminary investigation explored the utilization of a shared medical record for improving treatment compliance and outcome measures for "first-time" stroke victims. It was hypothesized that individuals who had access to information regarding the diagnosis and treatment of their stroke and general stroke-related educational materials would have improved compliance and outcomes when compared with persons with only educational materials. Inpatient teaching was reinforced during outpatient visits. Data were collected at two points in time, comparing the two groups. Chi-square tests showed no differences between the shared-record and control groups regarding baseline demographic characteristics. Subjects reported their intentions to modify health-related behaviors by completing the diet, smoking and medication subscales of Miller's Health Intention Scale. They reported their compliance with treatment on the diet, medication, and smoking subscales of Miller's Health behavior Scale. The Glasgow Outcome Scale and the Global Outcome provided treatment outcome measures. Analysis of outcome measures was performed by means of analysis of variance. At the 6-month follow-up, no differences were seen in health practices. A trend toward better perceived outcome was suggested in the shared medical record group when poorest perceived outcomes were compared. For the most part, subjects in the shared-record group were satisfied with having a copy of their records, took them on visits to physicians, and reported learning more about their strokes. Suggestions for future research include specific treatment information as a variable to be assessed against better measures of health practices. In particular, studies might investigate whether access to personal health and treatment information interacts with the amount of responsibility patients take for their own health and whether this leads to the development of a collaborative relationship with primary health care professionals.
Organized Interest Advertorials: Responding to the 9/11 Terrorist Attack and Other National Traumas

Advertorials are a form of outside lobbying that organized interests use to influence policy makers and attentive publics. It is apparent by their popularity that organized interests consider them ...
Self-directed EMG training for the control of pain and spasticity in paraplegia: a case study.

A 25-year-old paraplegic woman was able to gain control of her debilitating leg and bladder spasms and abdominal pain using self-directed EMG biofeedback. The case is significant in that she previously had only cursory exposure to biofeedback as an undergraduate student and received only minimal support and direction from an instructor. She proceeded through daily home practice using a borrowed EMG unit and audiotapes from Lester Fehmi'sOpen Focus series. Records were kept of the frequency and intensity of her pain and spasms, as well as the frequency and procedures of her home practice. She also maintained a record of specific psychosocial events in her life, which, over time, showed a strong, consistent pattern of influence on the recurrence and severity of her symptoms. The woman's physician declared her medical progress remarkable and encouraged her biofeedback work. At 2-year follow-up, she remains virtually symptom- and medication-free. Her successful biofeedback training program provides support for the value of client-directed biofeedback in selected cases.
Primary central nervous system lymphoma: the role of consolidation treatment after a complete response to high-dose methotrexate-based chemotherapy.

BACKGROUND. The most effective treatment for a new diagnosis of primary central nervous system lymphoma is high-dose methotrexate (MTX)-based chemotherapy followed by whole-brain radiation therapy (WBRT). However, this combined modality treatment carries an increased risk of delayed neurotoxicity. For patients who achieve a complete response (CR) after induction that uses high-dose MTX-based chemotherapy, it is not clear if consolidation treatment is necessary. Therefore, a retrospective study was conducted to assess the impact of consolidation treatment after a CR to initial induction chemotherapy on disease control and survival. METHODS. The authors retrospectively analyzed 122 patients who achieved a CR after initial MTX-based chemotherapy. The benefit of consolidation WBRT, high-dose cytarabine (HDAC), or both on failure-free (FFS) and overall survival (OS) was assessed. RESULTS. With a median follow-up of 60 months, FFS was longer in patients who received WBRT plus HDAC as consolidation treatment (P = .03 by univariate analysis); there was no difference in OS observed among patients who received no consolidation treatment, HDAC alone, WBRT plus HDAC, or WBRT alone. Age and Karnofsky performance scale (KPS) were the only independent prognostic factors. Patients who received WBRT alone or in combination with HDAC had higher rates of neurotoxicity. CONCLUSIONS. Consolidation treatment with WBRT, HDAC, or both does not appear to improve survival in patients who achieved a CR with induction MTX-based therapy. Age, KPS, and risk of delayed neurotoxicity must be considered in the choice of consolidation regimens. Cancer 2008. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
A North Dakota Prevalence Study of Schizophrenia Presenting in Childhood

Abstract Prevalence studies have yet to be completed for many of the DSM-III diagnoses. The diagnosis of childhood schizophrenia is not included in the DSM-III. In DSM-III the same diagnostic criteria for schizophrenia are used for both children and adults. In this report the authors first sought to determine whether schizophrenia presenting in childhood (SC) occurs among a population of children with an early history of pervasive developmental disorder. When no patients with SC were identified, the authors sought to determine the prevalence rate of SC in North Dakota children in general. No patients with SC were found in this population either. About a year after the prevalence study, two children (both male) from the authors' practice developed DSM-III schizophrenia. The authors discuss the use of DSM-III criteria in the diagnosis of SC.
Multiple Testing in the Genomics Era: Findings from Genetic Analysis Workshop 15, Group 15

Recent advances in molecular technologies have resulted in the ability to screen hundreds of thousands of single nucleotide polymorphisms and tens of thousands of gene expression profiles. While these data have the potential to inform investigations into disease etiologies and advance medicine, the question of how to adequately control both type I and type II error rates remains. Genetic Analysis Workshop 15 datasets provided a unique opportunity for participants to evaluate multiple testing strategies applicable to microarray and single nucleotide polymorphism data. The Genetic Analysis Workshop 15 multiple testing and false discovery rate group (Group 15) investigated three general categories for multiple testing corrections, which are summarized in this review: statistical independence, error rate adjustment, and data reduction. We show that while each approach may have certain advantages, adequate error control is largely dependent upon the question under consideration and often requires the use of multiple analytic strategies.
Solution and emulsion polymerization with partially neutralized methacrylic acid

Polymerizations of partially neutralized methacrylic acid (MAA) were performed in both solution and emulsion systems. Polymerizations of MAA in solution were performed at an overall degree of neutralization ranging between 0 and 1. The rate of polymerization of the acid is found to decrease as the degree of neutralization increases due to increased electrostatic repulsion of the dissociated acid species (anions). The degree of neutralization of the unreacted monomer increases as the conversion increases. A kinetic model based on a copolymerization mechanism is used to describe the reaction behavior. Partially neutralized methacrylic acid was also polymerized with styrene in a seeded emulsion system. The reaction rates of both the acid and styrene decrease as the overall degree of neutralization increases. A previously developed emulsion copolymerization kinetic model is extended to account for reaction of the anions and used to investigate the overall “terpolymerization” of the acid, anions, and styrene.
Etch rates for Si-face 4H-SiC using H 2 and a C 3 H 8 partial pressure

In an effort to calibrate nitrogen incorporation into the growing layer, a nitrogen step-doped sample was grown. In an attempt to reduce or eliminate incidental etching during pre- and post- growth temperature ramps, additional samples were etched under different propane partial pressures. With increasing propane partial pressure the etch rate decreases.
Local Fiscal Policy and Establishment Growth

This applied study examines the effects of local taxes and gov- ernment spending on the employment growth of 17,172 Maine estab- lishments that were in operation in 1996 and 1999. Empirical results in- dicate that taxes have a negative effect on an establishment's three-year employment growth rate, although the tax effects are quite small in magnitude. These results are robust to the omission of establishments located in municipalities that cause group effects in the regression analy- sis. The negative tax effects are not statistically significant, however, in regressions that correct for sample selection bias related to establishment closures. In general, the empirical findings do not reveal a significant re- lationship between establishment growth and several types of local gov- ernment spending.
On the convergence of a certain class of iterative procedures under relaxed conditions with applications

We provide sufficient convergence conditions for a certain class of inexact Newton-like methods to a locally unique solution of a nonlinear equation in a Banach space. The equation contains a nondifferentiable term and at each step we use the inverse of the same linear operator. We use Ptak-like conditions that are weaker than earlier ones. Our results apply whenever earlier ones do but not vice versa. A semilocal convergence result is also given based on the contraction mapping principle. Finally, our results apply to solve a nonlinear integral equation of Uryson type appearing in elasticity theory that cannot be solved with existing methods.
Voice problems among teachers: Differences by gender and teaching characteristics

This study describes the effects of teaching activities on voice problems in male (n = 274) and female teachers (n = 280). Over 38% of the teachers studied complained that teaching had an adverse impact on their voice and 39% of those had cut back teaching activities as a result. Compared to males, female teachers more frequently reported a voice problem (38% vs. 26%, p<.05), acute (p<.05), and chronic (p<.05) voice problems, six specific voice symptoms, and five symptoms of physical discomfort. However, there were no gender differences in the perception that a voice problem adversely affected their current or future teaching career. For every type of course taught, women had a higher probability of reporting voice problems compared to men: odds ratio (OR) = 1.7-2.1. Compared with other courses, the teaching of physical education also was associated with an increased risk of developing a voice problem (OR = 3.7, 95% CI: 1.4-9.4) independent of gender, age, hours/day, or years taught. This is the first study to show that in the same occupation, females report a higher frequency of vocal symptoms than males even when teaching characteristics and years employment are similar.
A network flow approach to optimizing hospital bed capacity decisions

The delivery of cost-effective and quality hospital-based health care remains an important and ongoing challenge for the American health care industry. Despite numerous advances in medical procedures and technologies, a growing array of outpatient health care options, limits on inpatient reimbursements, and almost two decades of hospital contraction and consolidation, annual inpatient admissions in the United States are currently at levels not seen since the early 1980s. This combination of increased demand and diminished resources makes planning for hospital bed capacity a difficult problem for health care decision makers. We examine this problem by developing a network flow model that incorporates facility performance and budget constraints to determine optimal hospital bed capacity over a finite planning horizon. Under modest assumptions, we demonstrate that for realistic sized capacity planning problems, our network formulation is not computationally intensive, and allows us to obtain optimal bed capacity plans quickly.
LABORATORY SELECTION FOR BEET ARMYWORM (LEPIDOPTERA: NOCTUIDAE) RESISTANCE TO METHOXYFENOZIDE

Abstract Beet armyworms, Spodoptera exigua (Hubner), were artificially selected in the laboratory for resistance to the insect growth regulator, methoxyfenozide. A field collected beet armyworm colony was separated into three cohorts that were independently selected with three concentrations (0.033 ppm, 0.064 ppm, and 0.125 ppm) of methoxyfenozide incorporated into a meridic diet. These concentrations corresponded closely with the LC10 (0.033 ppm), LC50 (0.072 ppm), and LC90 (0.161 ppm), respectively, for the original colony. After seven generations of continuous exposure to methoxyfenozide, resistance in the colony selected at the low concentration did not increase significantly. In contrast, LC50 values increased 9.7- and 9.4-fold for the colonies selected at the moderate and high concentrations, respectively, over that of the original colony. Crosses between resistant and susceptible individuals indicated that the resistance was heritable. At 4 d after exposure, mortality of offspring from the reciproc...
Better selection of the best

We present a new method of selecting the best of several competing system designs on the basis of expected steady-state performance. The method uses a new form of time-series bootstrap in a sequential hypothesis testing frame-work. We illustrate the efficiency of the new method by comparing its results against the current state of the art in a series of simulation experiments. The new method achieves equal or greater probability of correct selection of the best system with substantial savings in the number of simulation observations required for the decision.