cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Barriers to D&E practice among family planning subspecialists.

Abstract Objective Over 95% of all second-trimester abortions are managed by dilation and evacuation procedures (D&E) and account for nearly 9% of all abortions in the United States annually. The Fellowship in Family Planning (FFP) offers subspecialty training in abortion and contraception to obstetrician–gynecologists and family medicine physicians. Twenty years after the FFP founding, we report on the abortion practice characteristics and specific barriers these subspecialists face. Study Design We surveyed obstetrician–gynecologist family planning (FP) subspecialists by email regarding second-trimester abortion training and practice barriers with a focus on D&E. Results Our response rate was 62% (105/169) of all fellowship-affiliated physicians. Respondents were composed primarily of young women working in academic settings in the West and Northeast regions. Nearly all FP subspecialists have been trained to 24 weeks’ gestation and currently provide D&Es, with an average of nearly 200 per year. D&E practice barriers vary by geographical location and degree of “regional restrictiveness.” FP subspecialists practicing in more abortion-restrictive regions were four times more likely to report a personal main barrier (such as concern for safety) than other types of main barriers (p=.05). Providing D&Es in a hospital operating room was associated with 2.8 times higher odds of reporting an institutional or coworker main barrier (p=.02). High-volume D&E practice was associated with three times lower odds of reporting an institutional/coworker main barrier (p=.02). Conclusions By identifying the barriers to D&E practice experienced by FP subspecialists, we can begin to develop a coordinated approach to eradicating modifiable barriers and, ultimately, improve access for women seeking D&E services.
Low Temperature and Low Energy Radiofrequency Modification of Atrioventricular Nodal Slow Pathways in Pediatric Patients

OBJECTIVES To report our experience using low temperature and energy in the modification of the slow pathway in pediatric patients with atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia. BACKGROUND A concern in performing a slow pathway modification is the possible damage of the normal AV conduction system. Lesion size has been shown to have a linear relationship with temperature. Previous reports have used energy of 25-50 W that generate temperatures of 60 degrees C -70 degrees C for successful procedures. METHODS Report of results of attempted AV nodal slow pathway modification in 17 consecutive pediatric patients < 15 years of age at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia from April 1995 to November 1997 using low temperature and energy. RESULTS There were 18 successful slow pathway modifications with 1 recurrence in 17 patients. The maximum energy used during successful lesions was 32.7 +/- 13.8 W (range 15-50 W) with a mean energy of 26.4 +/- 13.3 W (range 12-48 W). The peak temperature during these lesions was 55.1 degrees C +/- 4.1 degrees C (range 48 degrees C-64 degrees C) with a mean temperature of 47.9 degrees C +/- 2.7 degrees C (range 44 C-540C). The mean number of radiofrequency lesions required for a successful modification was 5.8 +/- 6.7 (median 4.0, range 1-26). Patients have been followed for 2.08 +/- 0.79 years. CONCLUSIONS Slow pathway modification can be performed successfully with a low incidence of recurrence in the pediatric patient using low energy and temperature. It is possible that this may lead to smaller lesions.
The nature of the transition state for enzyme-catalyzed phosphoryl transfer. Hydrolysis of O-aryl phosphorothioates by alkaline phosphatase.

There has been much speculation that enzymes change the nature of the transition state for phosphoryl transfer from the dissociative transition state observed in solution reactions to an associative transition state at the enzyme's active site. This proposal can be tested by comparing linear free energy relationships (LFERs) for nonenzymatic and enzymatic reactions, provided that the specificity of the enzyme's binding site does not perturb the dependence of rate on the intrinsic reactivity of a series of substrates. The shallow binding groove of Escherichia coli alkaline phosphatase (AP) and its wide specificity suggest that this enzyme may be suited for such an approach. A second requirement of this approach is that the actual chemical step is rate-limiting. Comparisons of the reactions of aryl phosphorothioates and aryl phosphates support the previous conclusion that a nonchemical step limits kc,$& for reactions of aryl phosphates, but suggest that the chemical cleavage step is rate-limiting for the aryl phosphorothioates. We therefore determined the dependence of the rate of AP-catalyzed cleavage of a series of aryl phosphorothioates on the intrinsic reactivity of the substrates. The large negative values of group = -0.8 for the enzymatic reaction (kcat/&) and - 1.1 for the nonenzymatic hydrolysis reaction suggest that there is considerable dissociative character in both the enzymatic and nonenzymatic transition states. Despite the wide specificity of AP, certain substrates deviate from the LFER, underscoring that extreme care is required in applying LFERs to enzymatic reactions. The large negative value of Pleaving pup suggests that AP can achieve substantial catalysis via a transition state with dissociative character,
DRB-induced premature termination of late adenovirus transcription

Exposure of HeLa cells to 5, 6-dichloro-1-β-D-ribofura-nosylbenzimidazde (DRB) late in the course of adenovirus 2 infection results in the inhibition of virus-specific RNA synthesis from all parts of the previously identified, very long (∼ 28 kilobases) late transcriptional unit, except for the first ∼ 400–800 nucleotides. It is suggested that DRB acts not as an inhibitor of RNA chain initiation, but rather causes ‘premature’ chain termination close to the promoter. A practical aspect of these findings may be that RNA sequences near promoter sites that are responsible for mRNA formation can be isolated from DRB-treated cells.
Synthesis of tritium‐labelled 5‐chloro‐2′,3′‐dideoxy‐3′‐fluorouridine (935u83) ‐ a selective anti‐HIV agent

[5'- 3 H]-5-Chloro-2',3'-dideoxy-3'-fluorouridine (1 ; R=[ 3 H]) was prepared at a specific activity of 10.2 Ci/mmol suitable for development of a radioimmunoassay procedure. The synthetic sequence employed controlled oxidation of unlabelled 1 to the 5'-aldehyde (2), isolation as the imidazolidine adduct (3), regeneration of the free aldehyde, reduction with [ 3 H]NaBH 4 , and purification by preparative TLC. The radiochemical purity was 98.0%
IL-18 promoter polymorphisms correlate with the development of post-injury sepsis.

Abstract Background. Interleukin (IL)-18 is a proinflammatory cytokine involved in the regulation of cell-mediated and innate immune responses to infection, trauma, and inflammation. Elevated levels of IL-18 have been noted to correlate with organ dysfunction after injury. This study evaluates the relationship between IL-18 promoter polymorphisms and the development of sepsis after injury. Methods. DNA was extracted from peripheral leukocytes of trauma patients with an injury severity score of 16 or greater. Patient clinical course was followed for the development of sepsis as an endpoint. Two SNPs (−607bp and −137bp) were amplified using polymerase chain reaction. Alleles were identified via agarose gel separation. Genotypes were then determined and correlated with patient data. Postinjury IL-18 levels were determined by enzyme-linked immunoassay. Results. Sixty-six patients were evaluated; 36 (52%) developed sepsis. Each SNP had 2 alleles and 3 genotypes. The SNP at −607bp had an allelic frequency of 59% for C and 41% for A; whereas −137bp was a G 79% of the time and a C 21% of the time. Individually, each SNP had no direct correlation between the patient's genotype and development of infection. However, when the −607bp CA genotype was combined with the −137bp GC genotype (CA/GC), only 4 patients (27%) developed sepsis ( P =.02). Conclusions. This study supports the conclusion that IL-18 genetic promoter polymorphisms correlate with the development of postinjury sepsis. Further investigation is needed to identify the impact of variation in genotype across a range of genes involved in connected regulatory pathways. (Surgery 2003;134:351-6.)
Predictions of induced radioactivity for spacecraft in low earth orbit.

Abstract Predictions of the induced radioactivity in representative structural materials (aluminum and stainless steel) have been made for spacecraft in low Earth orbit (LEO) with emphasis on determining the importance of different space radiation sources, secondary particle contributions, and the spatial dependence expected within spacecraft. Orbit parameters corresponding to those of the recently recovered long duration exposure facility (LDEF) satellite are used, which are also very similar to the orbit parameters planned for Space Station Freedom.
Selected Parameters of Response Organization in Mildly Mentally Retarded Children

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of response organization on reaction time (RT) and movement time (MT) of mildly mentally retarded children. Two groups of 30 subjects each were formed: a retarded group 9 yr. of age and a normal group matched for chronological age. Subjects were randomly assigned to one of three precued conditions in which they were told that the forthcoming response would be performed with the right or left hand (precue hand), be to the right or left side (precue direction), or cross or not cross the body midline (precue midline). The retarded group performed significantly more slowly than the normal group on both RT and MT. Both groups, however, were able to utilize precued hand information as opposed to other precued variables, indicating that knowing which hand to use is important when organizing responses.
Rapid adaptation to neuronal membrane effects of ethanol and low temperature: Some speculations on mechanism

There is increasing evidence that ethanol exerts its primary effect at neuronal membranes by influencing specific lipid--protein or lipid--lipid interactions that control the state of organization of a specific membrane component; for example, a specific lipid--protein complex that controls a particular physiological property. This implies that tolerance to ethanol is the result of a change in the composition and/or state of organization of this critical membrane component. This altered state confers ethanol resistance. It may or may not have an effect on function in the absence of ethanol. One basis for these speculations comes from experiments using a sensitive and specific neurophysiological assay -- the rate of decay of posttetanic potentiation (PTP) at an identified synapse in an isolated, perfused Aplysia ganglion. We review evidence that PTP decay rate is strikingly accelerated by ethanol (a membrane-fluidizing agent) and strikingly decelerated below a transition temperature, presumably reflecting a transition in the structure of a membrane component. The ethanol and low-temperature effects are antagonistic. The system develops adaptation (tolerance) to either ethanol or low temperature within hours of its exposure. Tolerance persists for at least 12 hours, the longest interval tested thus far. In the absence of ethanol and at normal temperature the system behaves normally, that is it shows no "physical dependence". The system also has the remarkable property that when it becomes tolerant to either of these treatments, it shows tolerance to the other treatment that normally has the opposite effect. Therefore, the adaptation to either treatment cannot be a simple change in membrane composition governing overall membrane fluidity. A hypothesis which could explain the bidirectional cross-tolerance is considered in which adaptation to both treatments involves a shift from a homogeneous to a more heterogeneous composition of the critical membrane component, for example increasing heterogeneity in boundary lipid surrounding a critical membrane protein. It is becoming increasingly clear that ethanol exerts its primary effect by altering cell membrane structure -- by "fluidizing" or expanding neuronal and other membranes [1 - 6]. This effect results when ethanol, a somewhat hydrophobic molecule, intercalates between some fatty acid chains of membranes, reducing the degree of order of their alignment and increasing the lateral mobility of some membrane components. Decrease in the order of the fatty acid chains results in a measurable expansion of the membrane; and the change in fluidity is reflected in the change in mobility of appropriate probes that can be dissolved in the membrane [6, 7]. It is presumed that the physiological effects of ethanol are consequences of its fluidization of some critical membrane components; and that tolerance to ethanol is based on some form of resistance to this fluidization...
Predictive Modeling and Experimental Verification of Temperature and Concentration in Rapid Freeze Prototyping With Support Material

Rapid freeze prototyping is a solid freeform fabrication method that uses water freezing into ice as the build material. Each layer of geometry is deposited and allowed to freeze before the next layer is added in order to additively create a three-dimensional ice part. A sacrificial support material is needed for the fabrication of complex ice parts. Identifying a suitable support material and understanding the interaction between the build and support materials is the motivation behind this study. A temperature prediction model and a concentration prediction model are presented. Experimental results have been obtained to validate these models.
Detrimental effects of prenatal cocaine exposure : illusion or reality ?

ABSTRACT Objective The primary purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of prenatal cocaine exposure, while controlling for other factors that influence infant outcome. Method These preliminary data are from an ongoing prospective study of prenatal cocaine and/or crack exposure. Detailed information is collected about the use of cocaine, crack, alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, and other drugs during each trimester of pregnancy. Results Women who use cocaine and/or crack during pregnancy differ from those who do not. The women who use cocaine are older, more likely to be black, and less likely to be married. They also use more tobacco, alcohol, and marijuana during pregnancy than do nonusers of cocaine. When these differences between the exposure groups are controlled, preliminary analyses indicate there is no significant effect of prenatal cocaine use on infant growth and morphology.
Selectivity in the initial C-H bond cleavage of n-butane on PdO(101).

We used temperature programmed reaction spectroscopy (TPRS) and molecular beam reflectivity measurements to investigate the initial dissociation of n-butane isotopologues on PdO(101) and determine kinetic parameters governing the selectivity of initial C–H(D) bond cleavage. We observe differences in the reactivity of the n-butane isotopologues on PdO(101) due to kinetic isotope effects, and find that the initial dissociation probability decreases with increasing surface temperature for each isotopologue. We performed an analysis of the dissociation kinetics using a model that is based on a precursor-mediated mechanism for n-butane dissociation and enables quantification of kinetic parameters for selective C–H bond cleavage by considering differences in the reactivity among the n-butane isotopologues. From the analysis, we estimate that 49% of the n-butane molecules which react during TPRS do so through 1° C–H bond cleavage when the initial coverage of n-butane lies between ∼40% and 100% of the saturation coverage of the molecular precursor state. For dissociation in the limit of zero coverage, we estimate that the conditional probability for 1° C–H bond cleavage is equal to ∼87% and varies only weakly with surface temperature from 300 K to 400 K. Analysis of the temperature dependent rate data further predicts that the barrier for 1° C–H bond cleavage is 3.5 kJ mol−1 lower than that for 2° C–H bond cleavage for n-butane dissociation on PdO(101) in the limit of zero coverage. Our results provide evidence that the selectivity for 1° C–H bond cleavage on PdO(101) increases as the n-butane coverage decreases below ∼40% of the saturation value. We speculate that intermolecular interactions among the n-butane species are responsible for the apparent coverage dependence of the C–H bond selectivity for n-butane dissociation on PdO(101).
46,XX DSD: the masculinised female

The 46,XX disorders of sex development (DSDs) cause virilisation or masculinisation of the female foetus. The final common pathway of all 46,XX DSDs is excess dihydrotestosterone (DHT) or potent foreign androgen in the genital tissue during the critical period of sexual differentiation. Whereas the foetal testis is source of androgen in the male, it is the foetal adrenal that produces the DHT precursors in the female. By understanding the principles of human steroid biosynthesis, the pathogenesis of each disorder may be logically deduced, and treatment strategies are rationally constructed. In practice, however, therapies for many of these diseases are fraught with complications and caveats, and current approaches leave much room for improvement. This review discusses these diseases, their pathogenesis and approaches to therapy. We emphasise areas where improved treatments are sorely needed.
Rapid singular value decomposition for time-domain analysis of magnetic resonance signals by use of the lanczos algorithm

Time-series analysis has become an integral part of signal interpretation in magnetic resonance and other experiments. As an example, linear prediction with singular value decomposition (LPSVD) (I, 2) and the related method, Hankel SVD (HSVD) (3)) have been recently applied to problems in NMR (2)) 2D NMR (4), 2D electron spin-echo spectroscopy (2D ESE) (5,6), Fourier transform ESR correlation spectroscopy ( 7)) time-resolved femtosecond spectroscopy (8)) and nonstationary neurological currents ( 9). The minimal goal of time-series analysis is to separate signal from noise. Spectral transform methods, such as FFT filtering (IO), maximum entropy ( MEM ) ( I I ) , and LPZ ( 12)) replace the original data with a new time series (or its spectrum) that has an enhanced signal-to-noise ratio. In contrast spectral decomposition methods, such as LPSVD or HSVD, which assume a certain functional form for the time series, provide both a recipe for separating signal from noise and a listing of the harmonic components contained in the original data. This harmonic list simplifies spectral analysis and can be used to (1) extend the noise-reduced time series, (2) selectively reconstruct certain regions of the harmonic spectrum, and (3) data-compress the signal. The substantial benefits of spectral decomposition are often offset by the requirements of considerable computational time and memory storage. For a time series of N data points spectral transform techniques usually require computational time of O(N logzN) to O(N’) and storage of O(N) whereas spectral decomposition, such as HSVD, requires computational time of 0( N3) and storage of O(N2). We have investigated a new approach for solving the spectral decomposition problem which is based on the Lanczos algorithm (LA) (13). In the past the LA has provided an effective means for solving slow-motional magnetic resonance spectra ( 14, 15) as well as other complicated problems in chemical physics ( 16, 17). The LA is an extremely fast method for solving large eigenelement problems when either (1)
Morphology of retinal axon arbors induced to arborize in a novel target, the medial geniculate nucleus. II. Comparison with axons from the inferior colliculus.

Specific neonatal lesions in ferrets can induce retinal axons to project into the medial geniculate nucleus (MGN). In the accompanying paper (Pallas et al., this issue), we described the morphology of these retinal ganglion cell axons. Those results and others (Roe et al. [1993] J. Comp. Neurol. 334:263) suggest that these axons belong to the W class of retinal axons. In this paper, the retino-MGN axons are compared with the normal inputs to the MGN from the brachium of the inferior colliculus (BIC). We first sought to determine further the extent to which a novel target might influence retinal axon arbor morphology. The second issue concerns retinal topography. Ferrets with retinal projections to the MGN have a two-dimensional retinotopic map in the MGN and the primary auditory cortex rather than the one-dimensional tonotopic map normally present (Roe et al. [1990] Science 250:818). To investigate whether there might be an anatomical substrate for a two-dimensional retinotopic map in the MGN, we compared the space-filling characteristics of the retino-MGN axons with the IC-MGN axons. Our results show that the branched retino-MGN axons resemble normal retinal W axons much more closely than they resemble the normal inputs to MGN. In addition, most of the axon arbors from the BIC are elongated along the rostrocaudal (isofrequency) axis, whereas the branched retino-MGN axons are more spatially restricted, suggesting an anatomical substrate for a retinotopic map in the MGN of the rewired ferrets. © 1994 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Bioassay apparatus for rodent olfactory preferences under laboratory and field conditions

A bioassay apparatus is described which automatically registers frequency and the total time that rodents investigate sample odors. The apparatus provides free access for wild rodents, and its rugged weatherproof construction allows outdoor use for extended time periods. The photocell light source is covered by an infrared filter and it can be operated continuously or for preset time intervals. When the apparatus was utilized for rat sex attractant research, many of the odorants preferred by tame laboratory rats were also attractive to wild rodents under field conditions.
Adverse events following Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccines in the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System, 1990-2013.

Objective To characterize adverse events (AEs) after Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccines reported to the US Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS), a spontaneous reporting surveillance system. Study design We searched VAERS for US reports after Hib vaccines among reports received from January 1, 1990, to December 1, 2013. We reviewed a random sample of reports and accompanying medical records for reports classified as serious. All reports of death were reviewed. Physicians assigned a primary clinical category to each reviewed report. We used empirical Bayesian data mining to identify AEs that were disproportionally reported after Hib vaccines. Results VAERS received 29 747 reports after Hib vaccines; 5179 (17%) were serious, including 896 reports of deaths. Median age was 6 months (range 0-1022 months). Sudden infant death syndrome was the stated cause of death in 384 (51%) of 749 death reports with autopsy/death certificate records. The most common nondeath serious AE categories were neurologic (80; 37%), other noninfectious (46; 22%) (comprising mainly constitutional signs and symptoms); and gastrointestinal (39; 18%) conditions. No new safety concerns were identified after clinical review of reports of AEs that exceeded the data mining statistical threshold. Conclusion Review of VAERS reports did not identify any new or unexpected safety concerns for Hib vaccines.
Relativistic corrections to the electric dipole and the magnetic dipole single photon transition amplitudes of a composite system

Abstract By considering the interaction of a composite system with the quantized radiation field in an approximately relativistic canonical theory we derive expressions for the electric dipole and the magnetic dipole single photon transition amplitudes of a composite system, including all their relativistic corrections of order v2/c2.
Sensitivity of the ice-divide position in Greenland to climate change

Model calculations of depth-age relations for deep ice cores in central Greenland are sensitive to stability of the ice-divide position. In addition, the folding of layers observed in the deep ice could be instigated by divide migration changing the velocity and particle paths of ice flow. We use simple steady-state calculations to show that lateral divide migration of between 10 km and 50 km and elevation change of approximately 100 m is likely on glacial-interglacial time scales, enough to affect model dating. The ice-divide location appears to be most sensitive to the position of the ice-sheet margins. By contrast, the ice-divide elevation is most sensitive to the accumulation rate, the temperature profile, and the ice-stiffness profile.
Rooted tree graphs and de Bruijn graphs

The de Bruijn graph G n illustrates all possible transitions in an n-stage binary shift register. Most feedback functions for an n-stage shift register partition the state space into cycles whose combined lengths total 2n. These cycles are equivalent to factors in the de Bruijn graph. Short cycles from two special feedback functions can be merged to create two subsets of the de Bruijn sequences. Rooted tree graphs count the number of sequences in these two subsets. This methodology can be generalized to construct most de Bruijn sequences and to count the sizes of these other subsets1,2.
Mind-Body Medicine Therapies for a Range of Depression Severity: A Systematic Review

Objective Of the 34 million adult Americans (17%) using mind-body medicine therapies, 8 million (24%) have anxiety/depression. The evidence for using mind-body therapies to address varying depressive symptoms in populations with and without other chronic comorbidities is reviewed. Methods Systematic literature searches of PubMed (Medline), Embase, CINAHL, and the seven databases encompassed by Current Contents, Web of Science, and Web of Knowledge were conducted. Studies designed as prospective control-comparison, adult population, English, at least 2 weeks long, sample size >30, and with primary or secondary outcome as depression measured on an established scale were included. Methodologic quality was evaluated using the modified Scale for Assessing Scientific Quality of Investigations (SASQI) for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM). Results Ninety papers of about 2900 met both inclusion and exclusion criteria; 60% of them scored a SASQI >9 and were deemed of sufficient quality to be included in the review; 74% of these selected quality papers demonstrated positive effects on the improvement of depressive symptoms. All mind-body modalities included in the study had at least one positive study. For cancer patients, several studies noted the positive effects of yoga and combination therapies on depression severity. For both diagnosed depression and fibromyalgia, several studies noted the positive effects of mindfulness on depression severity. Conclusion The use of evidence-based mind-body therapies can alleviate depression severity. They could be used with established psychiatric treatments of therapy and medications. The likely long-term increased cost-effectiveness of integrating these therapies deserves further investigation.
Asperger syndrome: diagnosis and external validity

This article provides an overview of the history and clinical features of Asperger syndrome and considers guidelines for clinical assessment and treatment. A review of issues related to external validity is provided that points out the limitations of current research and lists several potentially beneficial areas of investigation into the nosologic status of the condition. It concludes with a discussion of the unequivocal need of individuals with severe social disabilities for comprehensive and adequate educational services and other treatments, regardless of the fact that the validity and usefulness of this specific diagnostic concept is far from resolved.
A Bayesian model for cluster detection

SUMMARY The detection of areas in which the risk of a particular disease is significantly elevated, leading to an excess of cases, is an important enterprise in spatial epidemiology. Various frequentist approaches have been suggested for the detection of “clusters” within a hypothesis testing framework. Unfortunately, these suffer from a number of drawbacks including the difficulty in specifying a p-value threshold at which to call significance, the inherent multiplicity problem, and the possibility of multiple clusters. In this paper, we suggest a Bayesian approach to detecting “areas of clustering” in which the study region is partitioned into, possibly multiple, “zones” within which the risk is either at a null, or non-null, level. Computation is carried out using Markov chain Monte Carlo, tuned to the model that we develop. The method is applied to leukemia data in upstate New York.
Innovation in the public sector: Dilemmas in the use of Ad Hoc processes

Increasingly, public sector executives are using ad hoc groups and processes—what we term “parallel processes”—as a vehicle for innovation. The central question is, however, when parallel processes are developmental and when they are bypasses that avoid critical issues. This paper reviews some potential weaknesses in the use of such groups by examining several cases that show how they can impede the actual implementation of the innovation. We propose a transitional perspective that regards parallel process as scaffolding, enabling new ideas and behaviors to grow strong enough to eventually allow their transfer to the permanent structure.
Transport Theory of Waves in Randomly Distributed Scatterers

Electrical Engineering Wave Propagation and Scattering in Random Media A volume in the IEEE/OUP Series on Electromagnetic Wave Theory Donald G. Dudley, Series Editor This IEEE Classic Reissue presents a unified introduction to the fundamental theories and applications of wave propagation and scattering in random media. Now for the first time, the two volumes of Wave Propagation and Scattering in Random Media previously published by Academic Press in 1978 are combined into one comprehensive volume. This book presents a clear picture of how waves interact with the atmosphere, terrain, ocean, turbulence, aerosols, rain, snow, biological tissues, composite material, and other media. The theories presented will enable you to solve a variety of problems relating to clutter, interference, imaging, object detection, and communication theory for various media. This book is expressly designed for engineers and scientists who have an interest in optical, microwave, or acoustic wave propagation and scattering. Topics covered include: * Wave characteristics in aerosols and hydrometeors * Optical and acoustic scattering in sea water * Scattering from biological materials * Pulse scattering and beam wave propagation in such media * Optical diffusion in tissues and blood * Transport and radiative transfer theory * Kubelka--Munk flux theory and plane-parallel problem * Multiple scattering theory * Wave fluctuations in turbulence * Strong fluctuation theory * Rough surface scattering * Remote sensing and inversion techniques * Imaging through various media About the IEEE/OUP Series on Electromagnetic Wave Theory Formerly the IEEE Press Series on Electromagnetic Waves, this joint series between IEEE Press and Oxford University Press offers outstanding coverage of the field with new titles as well as reprintings and revisions of recognized classics that maintain long-term archival significance in electromagnetic waves and applications. Designed specifically for graduate students, practicing engineers, and researchers, this series provides affordable volumes that explore electromagnetic waves and applications beyond the undergraduate level. See page il of the front matter for a listing of books in this series.
Assessment of the Effects of Drop Size Distribution Variations Retrieved from UHF Radar on Passive Microwave Remote Sensing of Precipitation

Abstract Vertical profiles of drop size distribution (DSD) parameters are produced from data collected with the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration 915- and 50-MHz Doppler radars at Darwin, Australia, for the 1993–94 monsoon season. An existing algorithm is used to retrieve gamma size distribution parameters from the VHF and UHF Doppler radar spectra. The clear-air mean velocities and spectral widths obtained from the VHF radar are used to fit DSDs accurately to UHF spectra. Uncertainties in retrieved precipitation parameters are estimated from errors in both VHF and UHF spectra. The statistics of the retrieved profiles of DSD parameters are summarized and compared with surface disdrometer data from a site near Darwin. Retrieved vertical profiles of gamma DSDs are input to a microwave radiative transfer model to determine realistic variations in upwelling 10- and 19-GHz brightness temperatures due to uncertainties in drop size distribution. These brightness temperature variations are the...
Upper mantle anisotropy beneath Japan from shear wave splitting

In this study, we utilize data from 64 broadband seismic stations of the Japanese F-net network to investigate the threedimensional pattern of anisotropy in the subduction system beneath Japan. We have compiled a database of approximately 1900 high-quality splitting measurements, selected by visual inspection of over 25,000 records of S, SKS, and SKKS phases at F-net stations, covering a wide range of incidence angles, incoming polarization angles, and backazimuths. Analysis of the variations of measured splitting parameters with these parameters allows us to consider complexities in structure such as multiple anisotropic layers, dipping symmetry axes, and small-scale lateral variations in anisotropic properties. Here we focus on the presentation of the splitting measurements themselves; a detailed interpretation in terms of tectonics and mantle flow is beyond the scope of this paper. In the southern part of the F-net array, along the Ryukyu arc, we find that fast directions are consistently trench-parallel, with splitting times of 1 s or more. Moving northward along the array, the measured splitting patterns become more complicated, with significant variations in apparent splitting parameters that indicate complex anisotropic structure. Additionally, measured fast directions vary significantly over short length scales, and stations separated by less than 100 km often exhibit very different splitting behavior. This increase in complexity of anisotropic structure coincides geographically with the complicated slab morphology of the subducting Pacific plate. At stations on Hokkaido, to the north, and Kyushu, to the south, we see some evidence that the fast direction of anisotropy may rotate from trench-parallel close to the trench to subduction-parallel further away from the trench, which may correspond either to a change in stress conditions and/or volatile content, or to a change in flow regime. © 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Time scales of response to antisymmetric surface fluxes in an aquaplanet GCM

The intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ) shifts in response to hemispheric asymmetries in extratropical energy forcings. This study investigates the response time scale of this shift in an aquaplanet global climate model coupled to a slab ocean. A steady antisymmetric perturbation is abruptly added to the slab-ocean heat flux convergence in midlatitudes. The time scale of the ITCZ shift scales linearly with the heat capacity of the combined ocean-atmosphere system, and the shift is amplified by subtropical clear-sky radiation and cloud radiative feedbacks.
A Dual-Process Model of Cheating Intentions:

Although prior pedagogy research indicates significant relationships between several student characteristics and cheating intentions, no research has examined the simultaneous effect of cognition and anticipated emotions on such intentions. To explore the possibility that imagined outcomes—prompted by anticipated emotions—and select cognitive factors antecede cheating intentions, the authors developed and tested a model that relates anticipated regret, anticipated elation, locus of control, and personal expertise to willingness to cheat. The empirical results, which rely on five extant scales and a new multiitem vignette measure of cheating intentions, validate this dual-process model. Also, the results show that anticipated elation is a source of value for students, which positively affects their willingness to cheat.
A critical evaluation of oxidation versus reduction during metamorphism of L and LL group chondrites, and implications for asteroid spectroscopy

Modal mineralogies of individual, equilibrated (petrologic type 4-6) L and LL chondrites have been measured using an electron microprobe mapping technique, and the chemical compositions of coexisting silicate minerals have been analyzed. Progressive changes in the relative abundances and in the molar Fe/Mn and Fe/Mg ratios of olivine, low-Ca pyroxene, and diopside occur with increasing metamorphic grade. Variations in olivine/low-Ca pyroxene ratios (Ol/Px) and in metal abundances and compositions with petrologic type support the hypothesis that oxidation of metallic iron accompanied thermal metamorphism in ordinary chondrites. Modal Ol/Px ratios are systematically lower than normative Ol/Px ratios for the same meteorites, suggesting that the commonly used C.I.P.W. norm calculation procedure may not adequately estimate silicate mineral abundances in reduced chondrites. Ol/Px ratios calculated from VISNIR reflectance spectra of the same meteorites are not in agreement with other Ol/Px determinations, possibly because of spectral complexities arising from other minerals in chondrites. Characteristic features in VISNIR spectra are sensitive to the proportions and compositions of olivine and pyroxenes, the minerals most affected by oxidative metamorphism. This work may allow spectral calibration for the determination of mineralogy and petrologic type, and thus may be useful for spectroscopic studies of asteroids.
NUMERICAL STUDY OF STRATIFIED CHARGE COMBUSTION IN WAVE ROTORS

A wave rotor may be used as a pressure-gain combustor effecting non-steady flow, and intermittent, confined combustion to enhance gas turbine engine performance. It will be more compact and probably lighter than an equivalent pressure-exchange wave rotor, yet will have similar thermodynamic and mechanical characteristics. Because the allowable turbine blade temperature limits overall fuel/air ratio to sub-flammable values, premixed stratification techniques are necessary to burn hydrocarbon fuels in small engines with compressor discharge temperature well below autoignition conditions. One-dimensional, unsteady numerical simulations of stratified-charge combustion are performed using an eddy-diffusivity turbulence model and a simple reaction model incorporating a flammability limit temperature. For good combustion efficiency, a stratification strategy is developed which concentrates fuel at the leading and trailing edges of the inlet port. Rotor and exhaust temperature profiles and performance predictions are presented at three representative operating conditions of the engine: full design load, 40% load, and idle. The results indicate that peak local gas temperatures will result in excessive temperatures within the rotor housing unless additional cooling methods are used. The rotor itself will have acceptable temperatures, but the pattern factor presented to the turbine may be of concern, depending on exhaust duct design and duct-rotor interaction.
A Multiresolutional Estimated Gradient Architecture for Global Optimization

In this paper we present a novel optimization algorithm that estimates gradients over regions to search for optima of a non-convex function on both a local and global scale. The proposed architecture is based on three concepts: using the memory of previously evaluated points, multiresolutional search, and the estimation of gradients at these different resolutions to direct the search. This multiresolution estimated gradient architecture (MEGA) shows promise to perform competitively when compared to standard global searches. Comparisons on the Rosenbrock, Griewank, and sinusoidal test functions show that MEGA can converge faster than particle swarm optimization, particularly as dimensionality of a problem increases.
Associations and outcomes of septic pulmonary embolism.

Background: Septic pulmonary embolism is a serious but uncommon syndrome posing diagnostic challenges because of its broad range of clinical presentation and etiologies. Objective: To understand the clinical and radiographic associations of septic pulmonary embolism in patients presenting to an acute care safety net hospital. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of imaging and electronic health records of all patients diagnosed with septic pulmonary embolism in our hospital between January 2000 and January 2013. Key Results: 41 episodes of septic pulmonary embolism were identified in 40 patients aged 17 to 71 years (median 46); 29 (72%) were men. Presenting symptoms included: febrile illness (85%); pulmonary complaints (66%) including pleuritic chest pain (22%), cough (19%) and dyspnea (15%); and those related to the peripheral foci of infection (24%) and shock (19%). Sources of infection included: skin and soft tissue (44%); infective endocarditis (27%); and infected peripheral deep venous thrombosis (17%). 35/41 (85%) were bacteremic with staphylococcus aureus. All patients had peripheral nodular lesions on chest CT scan. Treatment included intravenous antibiotics in all patients. Twenty six (63%) patients required pleural drainage and/or drainage of peripheral abscesses. Seven (17%) patients received systemic anticoagulants. Eight (20%) patients died due to various complications. Conclusion: The epidemiology of septic pulmonary embolism has broadened over the past decade with an increase in identified extrapulmonary, non-cardiac sources. In the context of an extrapulmonary infection, clinical features of persistent fever, bacteremia and pulmonary complaints should raise suspicion for this syndrome, and typical findings on the chest CT scans confirm the diagnosis. Antibiotics, local drainage procedures and increasingly, anticoagulation are keys to successful outcomes.
Evaluation of periapical injection of ketorolac for management of endodontic pain

Effective pain management of the endodontic emergency patient is often a problem. Ketorolac tromethamine is the first nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug available for intramuscular injection in the United States. Although its analgesic efficacy is comparable with opiates after intramuscular injection, to date no study has evaluated its efficacy after intraoral periapical injection. Fifty-two endodontic emergency patients were injected (injection routes = intraoral infiltration/intramuscular deltoid) on a double-blind basis with either: (i) placebo/placebo, (ii) 30 mg ketorolac/placebo, (iii) placebo/30 mg ketorolac, or (iv) 2% mepivicaine with 1:20 K levonordefrin/placebo. Infiltration injection of ketorolac at on oral site produced significant analgesic effects, particularly in treating pain of mandibular origin. These results suggest that intraoral injection of ketorolac may prove to be a useful adjunct in the management of endodontic pain patients. Further studies are required to replicate these findings and to develop optimal treatment combinations.
Down, Set, Hike: The Economic Impact of College Football Games on Local Economies

This paper provides an empirical examination of the economic impact of spectator sports on local economies. Confirming the results of other ex post analyses of sports in general, this paper finds no statistically significant evidence that college football games in particular contribute positively to a host’s economy. Our analysis from 1970-2004 of 63 metropolitan areas that play host to big-time college football programs finds that neither the number of home games played, the winning percentage of the local team, nor winning a national championship has a discernable impact on either employment or personal income in the cities where the teams play. While successful college football teams may bring fame to their alma mater, fortune appears to be a bit more elusive.
Children's blood lead and standardized test performance response as indicators of neurotoxicity in metropolitan New Orleans elementary schools

This study analyzes pre-Katrina variation in aggregate student performance and children’s blood lead (BPb) in 117 elementary school districts in metropolitan New Orleans. Fourth grade student achievement on Louisiana Educational Assessment Program (LEAP) tests were analyzed as a function of BPb for children 1–6 years old within school districts, controlling for student–teacher ratios, percent of students eligible for a free or discounted lunch, and school racial demography. Measures of performance across subject areas (English Language Arts, Science, Mathematics, and Social Studies) include school Achievement Test Scores (ATS) and indices of agreement and variation in student achievement. ATS are measured on a 5-point scale, corresponding to achievement categories of advanced = 5 to unsatisfactory = 1. Regression results show that median BPb ( mg/dL) and percent of children with BPb � 10 mg/dL are significantly associated with reductions in test scores across all subjects and depress variation in student performance across achievement categories. These data suggest that assisting children with improved school performance requires alleviation of pre-school Pb exposure and its associated neurotoxic damage. Cost–benefit calculations suggest that it is more cost effective to pay for onetime primary prevention instead of paying continuous expenses focused on reversing neurotoxic damage.
The Local Connection Local Government Performance and Satisfaction With Democracy in Argentina

In light of extensive decentralization in much of the world, analyses of citizen satisfaction with democracy that treat citizens as subjects of their national governments alone are incomplete. In this article, the author uses regression analysis of unique survey data from Argentina to explore the relationship between local government performance and citizen satisfaction with democracy. She demonstrates that there is indeed an important link between local government performance and citizen system support but also that citizens distinguish between qualitatively different types of government performance. Certain measures of local government performance, such as corruption, have ramifications for citizens' evaluations of the functioning of their democracy and even for citizens' faith in democracy per se. At the same time, other types of local government performance, such as local bureaucratic inefficiency, do not reverberate beyond the local sphere. These results suggest mixed implications for future democrat...
Synthesis of Substituted Indazoles via [3+2] Cycloaddition of Benzyne and Diazo Compounds

Ethyl diazoacetate 2-(Trimethylsilyl)phenyl trifluromethanesulfonate Tetrabutylammonium fluoride Keywords: indazoles; cycloaddition; benzyne; diazo compounds; explosion hazard; intermediate; disubstituted diazo compounds; mechanism; acyl migration; by-product formation; waste disposal
Limit of nanophotonic light-trapping in solar cells

Establishing the fundamental limit of nanophotonic light-trapping schemes is of paramount importance and is becoming increasingly urgent for current solar cell research. The standard theory of light trapping demonstrated that absorption enhancement in a medium cannot exceed a factor of 4n2 / sin2 θ, where n is the refractive index of the active layer, and θ is the angle of the emission cone in the medium surrounding the cell. This theory, however, is not applicable in the nanophotonic regime. Here we develop a statistical temporal coupled-mode theory of light trapping based on a rigorous electromagnetic approach. Our theory reveals that the standard limit can be substantially surpassed when optical modes in the active layer are confined to deep-subwavelength scale, opening new avenues for highly efficient next-generation solar cells.