cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Two Improvements in Omega Windfinding Techniques

Abstract A one-dimensional local spline smoothing technique is applied to Omega navigational signals for the purpose of windfinding. Wind profiles so produced depend largely on two parameters of the smoothing procedure: the nodal spacing, which determines the smallest resolvable scale, and a filtering wavelength, which produces the necessary smoothing of the phase data, and prevents representational distortion of any power from the unresolved scales. Phase “noise” from stationary test sondes is superimposed on synthetic Omega signals to compare wind profiles obtained with this new procedure with profiles computed using other techniques. Is it shown that the effect of aircraft maneuvers on Omega wind accuracy is not completely removed by the normal practice of evaluating all phase derivatives at a common time. Additional improvements in accuracy of 2–3 m s−1 can be obtained by a “rate-aiding” technique using aircraft navigational data.
Ian Johnson, A Mosque in Munich: Nazis, the CIA, and the Rise of the Muslim Brotherhood in the West

I picked up this book with some trepidation. After all, one of the most persistent myths about Islamist extremism is that the United States created it by means of its sponsorship of the Afghan muja...
Co-Design of Multi-Band High-Efficiency Power Amplifier and Three-Pole High- $Q$ Tunable Filter

This letter reports a novel methodology for co-design of broadband power amplifiers (PAs) and high- Q tunable filters. It is for the first time demonstrated that the tunable filter's input port can be synthesized to directly match the transistor's output, thus eliminating the conventional broadband/band-reconfigurable matching network of the PA. This leads to minimized circuit size, volume, and loss. In this letter, a three-pole tunable bandpass filter is designed as the output matching network of a 10 W GaN PA, yielding optimal fundamental and harmonic impedances. Simulation and measured results show that the co-designed PA-filter module exhibits desired Chybeshev filter behavior while achieving efficient PA performance in the passband over a 400-MHz tuning range from 2.95-3.35 GHz. Specifically, 51%-67% efficiency, ≈ 10 W output power, ≈ 10 dB gain were measured throughout the entire frequency range.
Assessing suicide risk in the school-age child.

Abstract Subtle messages, overt warning signs, and a cry for help usually precede suicide plans and attempts in school-age children. Health care providers who overcome attitudes or values that hamper assessment can identify these warnings and help prevent suicide. To assess suicide risk, school nurses and teachers must identify risk factors (eg, child abuse or incest) and evaluate the child's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Suicide assessment uses art, play, activity, and interviews with family and teachers. Health care providers who understand suicide thoughts, methods, and risk factors can identify children at risk and help prevent suicide.
An Integrated Design System for Fans, Compressors, and Turbines: Part 1 — Overview

In the early 1990s, a team of Honeywell fan, compressor, and turbine aerodynamic designers concluded that major savings in design time and cost could be achieved with a new aero design system. The range of turbomachinery in company engines, the manufacturing methods used for airfoils, and the different design activities set the scope of the new aerodynamic design system. Emphasis was placed on making the system general, flexible, and easy to use. The end result was a new aero design system with a lot of functionality packed into a single, easy to use program. The new system contains both geometry generators and a 2-D through-flow solver. The system has many special features that have provided savings from productivity improvements and reductions in design cycle time. Overall, use of the system has provided a net cumulative savings of over $6 million since 1992.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Chimeric Protein Engineering

Protein stability can be enhanced by the incorporation of non-natural amino acids and semi-rigid peptidomimetics to lower the entropic penalty upon protein folding through preorganization. An example is the incorporation of aminoisobutyric acid (Aib, α-methylalanine) into proteins to restrict the Φ and Ψ backbone angles adjacent to Aib to those associated with helix formation. Reverse-turn analogs were introduced into the sequences of HIV protease and ribonuclease A that enhanced their stability and retained their native enzymatic activity. In this work, a chimeric protein, design_4, was engineered, in silico, by replacing the C-terminal helix of full sequence design protein (FSD-1) with a semi-rigid helix mimetic. Residues 1–16 of FSD-1 was ligated in silico with the N-terminus of a phenylbipyridyl-based helix mimetic to form design_4. The designed chimeric protein was stable and maintained the designed fold in a 100-nanosecond molecular dynamics simulation at 280 K. Its β-hairpin adopted conformations that formed three additional hydrogen bonds. Compared to FSD-1, design_4 contained fewer peptide bonds and internal degrees of freedom; it should, therefore, be more resistant to proteolytic degradation and denaturation.
The Journal Editor as Well-Intentioned Steward

A personal narrative is presented that explores the author’s experience as editor of the “Academy of Management Journal,” during the years 1988-1990.
C-Terminal octapeptide of cholecystokinin decreases food intake in obese men

Six of eight obese men ate significantly less food during an intravenous infusion of the C-terminal octapeptide of cholecystokinin (CCK-8, 4 ng . kg-1 . min-1) than during a saline infusion in a double blind experimental paradigm. Subjects stopped eating sooner during CCK-8. CCK-8 did not change the rate of eating. No overt side effects were reported or observed. This is the first report of the satiety effect of CCK-8 in obese humans and it suggests that the therapeutic potential of CCK-8 for the treatment of obesity deserves investigation.
"Reasonable suspicion" about tough immigration legislation: enforcing laws or ethnocentric exclusion?

We examined whether support for tough immigration legislation reflects identity-neutral enforcement of law or identity-relevant defense of privilege. Participants read a fabricated news story in which law-enforcement personnel detained a person due to “reasonable suspicion” that he was an undocumented immigrant. We manipulated descriptions of the detainee so that he was either (a) an undocumented immigrant (both studies), (b) a documented immigrant (Study 1), or (c) a U.S. citizen (Study 2) of either Mexican or Canadian origin. Participants in both studies endorsed tougher punishment of an undocumented detainee and rated tough treatment as more fair when the detainee was of Mexican than Canadian origin (regardless of documentation status). Across both studies, the patterns of ethnocentric exclusion— harsher treatment toward Mexican immigrants than Canadian immigrants—were particularly pronounced among participants who defined American identity in terms of assimilation to Anglocentric cultural values (e.g., being able to speak English). Overall, results suggest that people may support tough measures to restrict immigration to defend against symbolic threats— especially threats that cultural “others” pose to Anglocentric understandings of American identity.
Atrial Augmentation of Surface Electrocardiographic Leads in Study of Complex Arrhythmias

A relatively simple and safe technique for augmenting atrial potentials while continuous surface electrocardiographic leads are being recorded on a single channel direct-writing electrocardiograph machine is described. In addition to obviating the need for special multichannel recorders, this technique permits recording of a single lead in which both atrial and ventricular depolarizations are clearly recognizable. The technique is particularlv suitable in coronary care units where it may be desirable to conserve floor space, and in physicians' offices and other areas not equipped with a multitude of recording apparatus. The use of the needle technique is extremely fast and particularly useful in severe shock and near terminal situations.
Optimization of Piezoelectric Resonance Effect in a Piezoelectric Transformer Plasma Source

Optimization of the piezoelectric resonance effect in a piezoelectric transformer plasma source (PTPS) is investigated. The PTPS utilizes a piezoelectric transformer (PT) effect to generate large electric potentials and aid in plasma formation in the plasma source. Finite-element simulations are used in conjunction with observations of device operation in order to optimize the PT effect used by the plasma source. Simulations were used to determine optimal crystal rotation for electromechanical coupling and evaluate the geometry of the plasma source in order to maximize the generated voltage. Input impedance measurements and an estimate of the mechanical quality were used to verify the effectiveness of device construction changes to reduce mechanical clamping.
Chloride Released from Three Permeable Pavement Surfaces after Winter Salt Application

Few studies exist on how chloride from chloride-based deicers is transported in infiltration-based stormwater control measures. In 2009, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) constructed a 0.4 ha parking lot in Edison, New Jersey, that was surfaced with permeable interlocking concrete pavers (PICP), pervious concrete (PC), and porous asphalt (PA). Each surface type has four equally sized, lined sections that direct all infiltrate to separate 5.7 m3 collection tanks. The USEPA acute criterion for aquatic life (860 mg/l) was exceeded in events immediately following a snow event. Concentrations of the infiltrate exceeded the detection limit (5 mg/l) year round but did not exceed the USEPA chronic toxicity (230 mg/l) after April. The chloride concentration decreased with cumulative rainfall since previous snow event, and a power regression described this relationship. In the power regression, the coefficient (b) described the initial concentration following a snow event, and the exponent (m) described the rate in which chloride was flushed through the system with infiltrating water. PC had the largest coefficient (5,664) and largest absolute exponent (−0.92), followed closely by PICP (b = 4,943 and m = −0.87), and distantly by PA (b = 2,907 and m = −0.67). The differences in release rate were proportional to the measured surface infiltration rates of 4,000; 2,400; and 200 cm/h for PC, PICP, and PA, respectively. These results will assist those who manage or regulate stormwater where receiving waters are chloride impaired.
Echocardiographic spectrum of mitral valve motion in children with and without mitral valve prolapse: the nature of false positive diagnosis.

To examine problems in echocardiographic diagnosis of mitral valve prolapse, multiple crystal cross-sectional echocardiography and single crystal recordings derived from the multiple crystal array were used to study 45 clinically normal children aged 3 to 15 years (Group A), 26 children aged 2 to 10 years with known mitral valve prolapse (Group B), 12 children with a catheterization-proved large left to right shunt at the ventricular level (Group C) and 8 children with catheterization-proved left ventricular outflow tract obstruction (Group D). Children in Groups A and B were not studied hemodynamically. Children in Groups C and D had no evidence of mitral valve prolapse on angiography and were studied echocardiographically to determine the effect of changes in ventricular shape on the patterns of mitral valve motion. In the real time cross-sectional studies, normal patients demonstrated a spectrum of mitral valve motion in which the bodies of the anterior and posterior leaflets became slightly horizontal with systolic ejection. The mitral apparatus assumed a curvilinear funnel shape. Arching of the leaflets into a horizontal configuration was more striking in the presence of either left ventricular dilatation in left to right shunt or involvement of the anterior mitral anulus in subaortic stenosis (two patients) and was associated with false positive M mode tracings suggesting mitral valve prolapse. This latter configuration was easily differentiated from the superior motion of the body of the leaflets in true prolapse. Studies of single crystal M mode recordings derived from the cross-sectional array in known locations from six normal patients revealed M mode patterns of pseudoprolapse in tracings derived from the leaflet body and patterns of normal motion at the free edge. In contrast, superior-posterior prolapse visualized in cross-sectional studies in patients with the click-murmur syndrome was associated with abnormal M mode recordings from all parts of the leaflet, including the free edge, although the abnormalities were most striking in tracings derived from the leaflet body. The M mode echocardiographic findings of mitral valve prolapse in both normal patients and patients with the click-murmur syndrome were dependent upon transducer angulation and the portion of the valve examined. The critical differentiation of the spectrum of normal valve motion from prolapse requires careful evaluation of echoes from the free edge of the leaflet where the posterior and anterior leaflet echoes coapt in early systole.
Satellite attitude analysis using the vicarious cold calibration method for microwave radiometers

A method for estimating the pitch and roll errors of a satellite with an onboard conical scanning microwave radiometer is described. The method makes use of the vicarious cold calibration algorithm which derives a stable cold brightness temperature (TB) over ocean. This cold TB is sensitive to the Earth Incidence Angle (EIA) of the radiometer. Given no pitch or roll errors, the EIA can be modeled as a function of the Earth radius and altitude of the satellite. Deviation from this EIA can then be used to estimate the pitch and roll errors. The pitch/roll algorithm is applied to the current spaceborne microwave radiometer WindSat to show its performance, and the results are compared to the derived pitch and roll of WindSat that are found using a different attitude analysis method.
A sharp lithosphere–asthenosphere boundary imaged beneath eastern North America

Although a rigid lithosphere (about 100 km of crust and uppermost mantle) moving over a weaker asthenosphere (a few hundred kilometres of more deformable rock) is a widely accepted aspect of plate tectonics, the properties of the boundary between them are poorly understood. When compressional waves (P-waves) from an earthquake encounter an interface at an angle, some of the energy is converted to shear waves (or S-waves). These ‘converted’ waves can be used to construct an image of the interface. Based on converted waves recorded in eastern North America, the lithosphere–asthenosphere boundary has been resolved as a sharp gradient that cannot be explained by thermal gradients alone, indicating that the boundary is controlled by melt or high water content in the asthenosphere. Plate tectonic theory hinges on the concept of a relatively rigid lithosphere moving over a weaker asthenosphere, yet the nature of the lithosphere–asthenosphere boundary remains poorly understood. The gradient in seismic velocity that occurs at this boundary is central to constraining the physical and chemical properties that create differences in mechanical strength between the two layers. For example, if the lithosphere is simply a thermal boundary layer that is more rigid owing to colder temperatures, mantle flow models1,2 indicate that the velocity gradient at its base would occur over tens of kilometres. In contrast, if the asthenosphere is weak owing to volatile enrichment3,4,5,6 or the presence of partial melt7, the lithosphere–asthenosphere boundary could occur over a much smaller depth range. Here we use converted seismic phases in eastern North America to image a very sharp seismic velocity gradient at the base of the lithosphere—a 3–11 per cent drop in shear-wave velocity over a depth range of 11 km or less at 90–110 km depth. Such a strong, sharp boundary cannot be reconciled with a purely thermal gradient, but could be explained by an asthenosphere that contains a few per cent partial melt7 or that is enriched in volatiles relative to the lithosphere3,4,5,6.
Age-related abnormalities in expression of mRNAs encoding synapsin 1A, synapsin 1B, and synaptophysin in the temporal cortex of schizophrenics.

Synaptic abnormalities have been implicated in schizophrenia. In order to investigate synaptic pathology in schizophrenia, we examined levels of mRNAs encoding synaptophysin, synapsin 1A and synapsin 1B in the left temporal cortex from schizophrenics (n = 24) and from normal control individuals with no history of psychiatric illness (n = 10). Levels of synaptic mRNAs in the left superior temporal and left middle temporal gyrus declined significantly with age in schizophrenics, but not in controls. Dividing the diagnostic groups according to age (below and above 75 years), the data revealed that in "young" schizophrenics (age 75 years) the levels of synaptic mRNAs in temporal cortex did not differ from age-matched controls. These findings further support the hypothesis that developmental synaptic abnormalities may be involved in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia.
The Influence of Gender and Age on Halstead-Reitan Neuropsychological Test Performance

Age-cohort differences for seven tests from the Halstead-Reitan Neuropsychological Battery, for overall performance on the Impairment Index, and for a multivariate composite of the seven scores, were examined for 427 subjects falling into six age groups (15-24, 25-34, 35-44, 45-54, 55-64, and 65 years and over). Univariate and multivariate-discriminant analyses were performed. Poorer performance was observed across age-cohorts (linear trend) for all tests and the Impairment Index. A very modest Age-Cohort (linear trend) x Gender interaction was observed only for the Category Test. Decline in Category Test performance across age-cohorts was more pronounced for women than for men. For women, the best discrimination among age groups was observed for the Category Test. For men, Tactile Performance Localization Test discriminated best. The poorest discrimination among age groups was seen for Finger-Tapping for men and Tactile Performance Test--Total (time score) for women. Results were consistent with a model of specific nested within general decline. Although linear-trend across age groups was observed for all tests, the strongest discriminations were associated with neuropsychological tests of abstraction and complex problem-solving performance.
Role of adenosine receptor subtypes in methamphetamine reward and reinforcement

The neurobiology of methamphetamine (MA) remains largely unknown despite its high abuse liability. The present series of studies explored the role of adenosine receptors on MA reward and reinforcement and identified alterations in the expression of adenosine receptors in dopamine terminal areas following MA administration in rats. We tested whether stimulating adenosine A1 or A2A receptor subtypes would influence MA-induced place preference or MA self-administration on fixed and progressive ratio schedules in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Stimulation of either adenosine A1 or A2A receptors significantly reduced the development of MA-induced place preference. Stimulating adenosine A1, but not A2A, receptors reduced MA self-administration responding. We next tested whether repeated experimenter-delivered MA administration would alter the expression of adenosine receptors in the striatal areas using immunoblotting. We observed no change in the expression of adenosine receptors. Lastly, rats were trained to self-administer MA or saline for 14 days and we detected changes in adenosine A1 and A2A receptor expression using immunoblotting. MA self-administration significantly increased adenosine A1 in the nucleus accumbens shell, caudate-putamen and prefrontal cortex. MA self-administration significantly decreased adenosine A2A receptor expression in the nucleus accumbens shell, but increased A2A receptor expression in the amygdala. These findings demonstrate that MA self-administration produces selective alterations in adenosine receptor expression in the nucleus accumbens shell and that stimulation of adenosine receptors reduces several behavioral indices of MA addiction. Together, these studies shed light onto the neurobiological alterations incurred through chronic MA use that may aid in the development of treatments for MA addiction.
A portrait of older homeless men: Identifying hopelessness and adaptation

Using participant observation as a homeless shelter volunteer and through face-to-face long interviews with four homeless elders (50+) and six service providers throughout the Greater Cincinnati Metropolitan area, data revealed unique coping strategies and patterns of service use of older homeless people. A state of hopelessness characterized many older homeless people who adapted and functioned in their culture of poverty. Sources of hopelessness were identified. Unique adaptations were noted for certain individuals who either learned to use the services opportunities provided or learned to exploit/abuse the service network. This group of people have found a social niche in which they can function and meet basic survival needs.
Adenoid cystic carcinoma metastatic to the fingers: A case report

When a patient presents with a tender lesion on the fingertip, the index of suspicion for a malignant tumor is low. One of the more common causes of a painful mass in the finger pulp is the benign glomus tumor. These neoplasms arise from the glomus, a system of neuromyoarterial canals. Lesions are characterized by extreme tenderness and cold intolerance. Multiple tumors may be present in the same digit. The treatment of choice is surgical excision of the lesions, which may be shelled out.‘,2 In contrast, malignant neoplasms of the hand are extremely uncommon, making up 2% of all hand tumors. When they occur. the majority are primary in the hand rather than metastatic.’ Because of the propensity for invasion and recurrence, the treatment approach to a malignant lesion requires the use of wide surgical margins (sometimes including amputation of the digit) and/or radiotherapy. We report a case of a metastatic lesion to the finger pulp that showed many clinical and histologic similarities to a glomus tumor. leading to a delay in diagnosis and proper treatment. sponded to radiotherapy. Later that year the patient noted a tender 2 mm lesion on the distal portion of the left ring finger, that was clinically thought to be a glomus tumor. The mass enlarged and became increasingly painful over the next few months (Fig.
A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO BONDS AND SWAPS

This paper provides a practical introduction to the fixed income capital markets (bonds and swaps). It is intended to provide the practical, institutional aspects of the markets together with the fundamental concepts used in today’s capital markets. In line with their ubiquity throughout the markets, derivatives (swaps) are introduced early. There are two central themes running throughout the paper which are central to the modern fixed income capital markets: Mark-to-market valuation by calculating the present value (PV) of cash flows off a yield curve; Measuring risk as the change in the present value resulting from changes in the yield curve.
A hierarchical domain decomposition method for rigorous conductor modeling of signal integrity in multi-scale integrated circuits

We present a hierarchical multi-solver domain decomposition method to accurately analyzing the signal integrity problems in multi-scale integrated circuits. Particularly, we discuss in detail a 3-D full wave method to model the conductor loss due to finite conductivities in metals. The proposed multi-solver non-conformal domain decomposition method follows a hierarchical domain partitioning strategy and the original problem is decomposed into non-overlapping subregions. A finite element domain decomposition method is adopted for the dielectric subregion with complex geometries and non-uniform material properties. While for the conductor subregion, a surface integral equation domain decomposition method is applied. To further improve the convergence in the DDM iterations, optimized transmission conditions are introduced to enforce the field continuities across sub-domain interfaces. Moreover, a hierarchical multi-level fast multiple method is adopted to address the low frequency issues particularly in IC applications. Rigorous numerical experiments validate the potential benefits offered by the proposed method.
Leucine Uptake and Incorporation by Convolvulus Tissue Culture Cells and Protoplasts under Severe Osmotic Stress

The uptake and incorporation of radioactive leucine by Convolvulus arvensis L. suspension culture cells were studied under various osmotic conditions to provide information about the effects of osmotic stress at the cellular level and about the suitability of various osmotica for stabilizing protoplasts. When manitol, sorbitol, sucrose, or a mixture of CaCl2 and KCl was added to the cells at a concentration normally used to stabilize protoplasts, the uptake of leucine was inhibited by 50 to 60% and incorporation by 37% with no major differences detected among these osmotica. NaNO3 of a similar osmotic strength exerted considerably more inhibition, an inhibition that was reversed by as little as 10 mM simultaneous CaCl2. None of the osmotica altered leucine or protein leakage from the tissue. In general, external solute concentrations below 0.36 osmolal slightly enhanced uptake and incorporation. At successively higher concentrations, uptake and incorporation decreased in a linear fashion, with no apparent discontinuity in the rate of decrease as the cells plasmolyzed. Cycloheximide inhibited both the uptake and the incorporation of leucine in all osmotic situations tested, exerting a much stronger inhibition upon the uptake by control tissue than upon that by cells in osmotica. Different cellulase enzyme preparations varied considerably in their effects on subsequent leucine uptake and incorporation.
Localization and differential interaction of R7 RGS proteins with their membrane anchors R7BP and R9AP in neurons of vertebrate retina

G protein signaling in the retina is crucially regulated by the R7 family of regulators of G protein signaling (RGS) proteins, which act to stimulate the rate of G protein inactivation. Recent findings indicate that R7 RGS proteins form complexes with two newly identified membrane anchors: RGS9 Anchor Protein (R9AP) and R7 Binding Protein (R7BP), which play essential roles in modulating the expression and localization of R7 RGS proteins. Here we demonstrate that the four R7 RGS proteins: RGS6, RGS7, RGS9 and RGS11 differentially associate with two membrane anchors. R9AP was found to form complexes with RGS9 and RGS11 which were substantially enriched in the photoreceptors. In contrast, complexes of R7BP with R7 RGS proteins were predominantly localized to the synaptic projections of retina neurons, suggesting their involvement in regulation of synaptic transmission between retina neurons. Furthermore, studies of knockout mice revealed that R9AP is necessary for the expression of only RGS9 but not for RGS6, 7 or 11. Together these data suggest that R7 RGS proteins in the retina are present as macromolecular complexes with their membrane anchors that could differentially regulate their function in various retina neurons.
Abnormal myocardial blood flow in children with mild/moderate aortic stenosis

Objective To quantify myocardial blood flow in infants and children with mild or moderate aortic stenosis using adenosine-infusion cardiac magnetic resonance. Background It is unclear whether asymptomatic children with mild/moderate aortic stenosis have myocardial abnormalities. In addition, cardiac magnetic resonance-determined normative myocardial blood flow data in children have not been reported. Methods We studied 31 infants and children with either haemodynamically normal hearts (n=20, controls) or mild/moderate aortic stenosis (n=11). The left ventricular myocardium was divided into six segments, and the change in average segmental signal intensity during contrast transit was used to quantify absolute flow (ml/g/minute) at rest and during adenosine infusion by deconvolution of the tissue curves with the arterial input of contrast. Results In all the cases, adenosine was well tolerated without complications. The mean pressure gradient between the left ventricle and the ascending aorta was higher in the aortic stenosis group compared with controls (24 versus 3 mmHg, p<0.001). Left ventricular wall mass was slightly higher in the aortic stenosis group compared with controls (65 versus 50 g/m2, p<0.05). After adenosine treatment, both the absolute increase in myocardial blood flow (p<0.0001) and the hyperaemic flow significantly decreased (p<0.001) in children with mild/moderate aortic stenosis compared with controls. Conclusion Abnormal myocardial blood flow in children with mild/moderate aortic stenosis may be an important therapeutic target.
Lectotypification of Pleuridium subulatum and P. acuminatum

Two widespread, polymorphic, but morphologically similar species of Pleuridium have long confused botanists. The sexual condition (autoicous versus paroicous) and perichaetial leaf lamina thickness (unistratose versus bistratose) morphologically distinguish Pleuridium subulatum from P. acuminatum. Additional evidence from cytological voucher specimens revealed that two chromosome numbers (n = 13 and n = 26) are congruent with the two respective taxa. Pleuridium subulatum (Hedw.) Rabenh. is lectotypified by a specimen from the herbarium of J. Hedwig and Pleuridium acuminatum Lindb. by a specimen from the herbarium of S. O. Lindberg).
Storage and retrieval of compressed images

In this paper, we propose a new technique for the storage and retrieval of compressed images. Here, the images are compressed using vector quantization and the codebook is used to generate a feature vector. This feature vector is used as an index to access the images in the database. This technique combines image compression with image indexing. In addition, it has lower storage and computation requirements compared with other techniques reported in the literature. >
Insights from a conference on implementing comparative effectiveness research through shared decision-making

For decades, investigators have conducted innovative research on shared decision-making (SDM), helping patients and clinicians to discuss health decisions and balance evidence with patients’ preferences for possible outcomes of options. In addition, investigators have developed and used rigorous methods for conducting comparative effectiveness research (CER), comparing the benefits and risks of different interventions in real-world settings with outcomes that matter to patients and other stakeholders. However, incorporating CER findings into clinical practice presents numerous challenges. In March 2012, we organized a conference at Washington University in St Louis (MO, USA) aimed at developing a network of researchers to collaborate in developing, conducting and disseminating research about the implementation of CER through SDM. Meeting attendees discussed conceptual similarities and differences between CER and SDM, challenges in implementing CER and SDM in practice, specific challenges when engaging SDM...
Self-tuning cavity resonator

A self-tuning cavity resonator has been proposed in this paper. An example cavity reveals that the resonant frequency can be tuned over a range of 30 MHz (4%) with a reflection coefficient as small as -37 dB. An experimental system is being developed at Michigan State University to explore the full potential of the self-tuning cavity.
An algorithm to synchronize the time of a computer to universal time

Describes an algorithm that synchronizes the time of a computer clock to UTC with an uncertainty due to all causes of about 1 ms RMS. The method uses periodic calibration data obtained via dial-up telephone access to the NIST automated computer time service. The interval between calibrations can be chosen to provide optimum time accuracy or reduced accuracy at reduced cost based on a preliminary evaluation of the statistical performance of the clock. The computer can serve as a primary network time server or can be used stand-alone whenever precise time-stamps are required. >
Prevalence of Hyperinsulinemia Associated With Body Mass Index, Genetic Predisposition, and Lifestyle in College Freshmen Students

Abstract Objective: College lifestyle places an individual at greater risk for the development of insulin resistance (IR) and disease. The aim of this study was to establish a baseline measurement of insulin, and other variables influencing IR in college freshmen. Participants: Twenty-two men and women, 18 to 19 years of age, during first month of college. Methods: Following 12-hour fast, subjects reported to the laboratory for determination of body mass index (BMI) and completion of questionnaire determining ethnicity, family history, and patterns of diet, exercise, and stress. Blood samples were obtained and analyzed for glucose and insulin. Results: Mean insulin value for men (14.9 ± 1.86 μU/mL) was normal, and that for women (17.3 ± 1.74 μU/mL) was slightly elevated. When subjects were grouped by BMI, genetic predisposition, and summated lifestyle risk, fasting insulin values were significantly different. Eight of 22 subjects were hyperinsulinemic (insulin >19 μU/mL). Conclusion: Hyperinsulinemia is p...
The future of community-based services for the old-old: technological and ethical challenges.

This paper reviews current demographic and programmatic trends with respect to the frail elderly. These trends include the projected growth in population of those 65 and older between now and 2030; the rapidly improving economic status of the 'older adult population and its effect on views of what the elderly's share of public money should be; the increasing diversity, fragmentation, and complexity of the gerontological services network and its effect on this cohort; the needs of growing numbers of third and fourth generation families that are unable to care for the needs of their 85-and-older relatives; and the questionable quality, inadequate funding, and resulting stigma attached to many existing community services. It is noted that community workers are also challenged by recent technological advances in community-based treatment, such as the wide range of in-home advanced medical and communication technologies now available to the elderly. In light of these trends, the paper addresses questions of staffing, training, and organizational design for services and makes suggestions concerning the future design of community-based care for the oldest old. References are included. (TE) *********** ***** ******************* ********* ** *********** ******* ***** ** Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document. ***** **** ******** ********** ********* ********** ******* *****!******* ***** The Future of Community-Based Services for the Old-Old: Technological and Ethical Challenges* Lenard W. Kaye, D.S.W. Associate Professc.r Graduate School of Social Work & Social Research Bryn Mawr College 300 Airdale Road Bryn Mawr, PA 19010 4r 03 U $ DEPARTMENT Of EDUCATION Office of Educational Research and Improvement om.1 EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES INFORMATION CENTER (ERIC) C) his document has been reproduced as received from the parson or organization originating it CD 0 Minor changes have been made to improve reproduction Quality Points of view or opinions slated in this doCu mint do not necessarily represent &foot OE RI position or policy "PERMISSION TO REPRODUCE THIS MAT RIAL HAS BEEN GRANTED BY TO THE EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES INFORMATION CENTER (ERIC)" * An earlier version of this paper was presented at the symposium "The Old-Old: Preparing for Future Cohorts of the Elderly" at the 35th Annual Meeting of the American Society on Aging, March 20, 1989, Washington, D.C. BEST COPY AVAILABLE 4 The Future of Community-Based Services for the Old-Old: Technological and Ethical Challenges*
Migration and paraethnography in Honduras

I analyze emigration from Honduras to the United States through the lens of the anthropology of knowledge. Whereas Honduran nonmigrants describe migration as a personal choice, migrants claim to be motivated by generalized social forces. Relatively abstract and systematic explanations of migration exemplify what Douglas Holmes and George Marcus call “paraethnographies,” forms of ethnography found within the discourse of the subjects of ethnographic research. Paraethnography has been employed in other settings to show how people use context-dependent information to challenge abstract models of behavior, but, here, it contextualizes the particular within the general, performing an opposite function than that described by Holmes and Marcus.
The Effects of Atmospheric Boundary Layer Turbulence upon Transport Category Aeroplane Drag

An example of the effect of atmospheric boundary layer turbulence upon aeroplane drag, taken from flight data, is presented and discussed. FAR/EASR 25 Transport Airplane airworthiness requirements, and their predecessor codes, traditionally stipulate for takeoff weight scheduling, a Gross-to-Net Performance decrement of –0.8% in First, Second, Third and Final Segment single-engine climb or acceleration performance. The decrement allows for non-optimum climb performance effects, including that due to indication system tolerances, pilot technical error, AFM/MEL-approved configuration deviations, inservice propulsion system condition (minor damage and/or wear), and atmospheric turbulence. Multiengine turboprop transport aeroplane performance flight data has been obtained and compared for flight in smooth mid-altitude air and low-altitude rough air; in this case, vertical shear-driven turbulence within a deeplydeveloped atmospheric boundary layer, with a turbulence power level roughly one order of magnitude below continuous gust structural design power levels. The analysis indicated an overall result that, between the two turbulence conditions, during rough air flight, the mean drag increased in magnitude equivalent of a loss of performance of –0.4%. It also indicated a drag rise sensitivity to vertical gusts, which was similar in magnitude whether the gusts were positive or negative, and of a magnitude such that the allowable gross-to-net 0.8% was exceeded for gusts which resulted in normal ‘g’ increments greater than about 0.25g.
Mediated Online Searching and Digital Reference

Digital reference is an important research area with the potential to enhance information delivery to library patrons. The process of digital reference involves the challenges and problems of an in...
Frequency control of semiconductor lasers

The requirement of a stable single-wavelength coherent source [1] for high-speed, long-distance optical-fiber communication systems has imposed severe conditions on the frequency control of semiconductor lasers. The two main candidates for a dynamic single-wavelength source are (1) the DFB and DBR lasers and (2) the interference lasers. In this paper, we first review the performances of interference lasers of the internal-reflection type. Then, we compare the outstanding features and problems of the Bragg lasers and the interference lasers of both internal- and external reflection types. Finally, we propose a new laser structure, called the interference-DFB laser, to take advantage of the interference and DFB lasers. An analysis of this laser also provides valuable insights in understanding the behavior of the DFB laser.
Regulation of Neutrophil Extracellular Trap Formation by Anti-Inflammatory Drugs

The formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) is a newly described phenomenon that increases the bacteria-killing ability and the inflammatory response of neutrophils. Because NET generation occurs in an inflammatory microenvironment, we examined its regulation by anti-inflammatory drugs. Treatment of neutrophils with dexamethasone had no effect, but acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) treatment prevented NET formation. NETosis was also abrogated by the presence of BAY 11-7082 [(E)-3-[4-methylphenylsulfonyl]-2-propenenitrile] and Ro 106-9920 [6-(phenylsulfinyl)tetrazolo[1,5-b]pyridazine], two structurally unrelated nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) inhibitors. The decrease in NET formation mediated by ASA, BAY-11-7082, and Ro 106-9920 was correlated with a significant reduction in the phosphorylation of NF-κB p65 subunit, indicating that the activation of this transcription factor is a relevant signaling pathway involved in the generation of DNA traps. The inhibitory effect of these drugs was also observed when NET generation was induced under acidic or hyperthermic conditions, two stress signals of the inflammatory microenvironment. In a mouse peritonitis model, while pretreatment of animals with ASA or BAY 11-7082 resulted in a marked suppression of NET formation along with increased bacteremia, dexamethasone had no effect. Our results show that NETs have an important role in the local control of infection and that ASA and NF-κB blockade could be useful therapies to avoid undesired effect of persistent neutrophil activation.
Wave Propagation in the Pulmonary Circulation

A mathematical model of the entire pulmonary circulation of the dog, based on branching elastic tubes, is shown to yield a useful description of the propagation of pulmonary vascular pressure and flow waves. The pressure and flow pulses throughout the model are computed from the pressures measured at the arterial and venous ends of the system. Computed flow pulses at each end of the system agree with experimental findings. Contour changes in the pressure and flow pulses are shown to be primarily due to dispersion and amplitude changes associated with reflected waves. Wave reflections are distributed throughout the model, and no specific site can be designated as the major source for reflections. Blood pressure and flow computed from the model remain pulsatile in the microcirculation; pressure pulses are attenuated but flow pulses pass essentially unchanged through the microcirculation. The computed results support the conclusion previously drawn from experimental evidence that pressure and flow pulses in ...
Americans’ Well-Being: Differences Among Population Groups

Any study of the distributions of perspectives on well-being in American society should find out whether particular perspectives occur more often in one social group or social category than in another. This chapter reports such an analysis. When we think of social conditions we tend to think of the rich and the poor, the educated and uneducated, men and women, the old and the young, and so forth. Such images often involve stereotypes of the life of the relatively well-off, the roles of the housewife and mother, or the restricted lives of senior citizens. Though differences among these groups may sometimes be overdramatized and almost caricatured, they frequently do serve as indicators of social conditions that are shared by large proportions of the people so categorized.
Development and Evolution of the Amniote Integument: Current Landscape and Future Horizon

This special issue on the development and evolution of the amniote integument begins with a discussion of the adaptations to terrestrial conditions, the acquisition of water-impermeability of the reptilian integument, and the initial formation of filamentous integumentary appendages that prepare the way towards avian flight. Recent feather fossils are reviewed, and a definition of feathers is developed. Hierarchical models are proposed for the formation of complex structures, such as feathers. Molecular signals that alter the phenotype of integumentary appendages at different levels of the hierarchy are presented. Tissue interactions and the roles of keratins in evolution are discussed and linked to their bio-mechanical properties. The role of mechanical forces on patterning is explored. Elaborate extant feather variants are introduced. The regeneration/gene mis-expression protocol for the chicken feather is established as a testable model for the study of biological structures. The adaptations of the mammalian distal limb end organs to terrestrial, arboreal and aquatic conditions are discussed. The development and cycling of hair are reviewed from a molecular perspective. These contributions reveal that the structure and function of diverse integumentary appendages are variations that are superimposed on a common theme, and that their formation is modular, hierarchical and cyclical. They further reveal that these mechanisms can be understood at the molecular level, and that an integrative and organismal approach to studying integumentary appendages is called for. We propose that future research should foster interdisciplinary approaches, pursue understanding at the cellular and molecular level, analyze interactions between the environment and genome, and recognize the contributions of variation in morphogenesis and evolution.
Judicial Review of the Voting Rights Act (2006): The Court Should Bail-Out

In 1965 Congress passed the Voting Rights Act (VRA), arguably the crown jewel of civil rights legislation; it was a dramatic effort to uproot processes denying African-Americans Fifteenth Amendment protections. In an exceptional expression of federal power, the VRA granted the national government a direct role in overseeing state and local elections. This oversight led to an immediate increase in African American voter participation. It also structured a long-term conflict over the authority to control electoral processes. Central in this conflict is the singling-out of some jurisdictions for section 5 “preclearance.” These “covered” jurisdictions, targeted by an automatic formula, require approval from the Department of Justice (DOJ) or the District Court in D.C. before implementing any changes to their electoral systems. Originally established as a temporary measure, set to expire in 1970, section 5 has been renewed (and even expanded) by Congress four times — most recently in 2006 for an additional twenty-five years. This oversight of elections is seen by many as a federal intrusion on state authority that can only be justified by extreme circumstances. For most of the Act’s history bailout was little used. With its lack of use, its importance has been overlooked. In Northwest Austin Municipal Utility District No. 1 (NAMUDNO) v. Holder (2009) — the most recent Supreme Court challenge to the constitutionality of the VRA — the Court dodged the constitutional question by expanding the types of jurisdictions eligible for bailout. The pace of jurisdictions terminating coverage has significantly increased since NAMUDNO. Of the total successful bailout actions since 1965, 30 percent occurred in the three years after the Supreme Court’s 2009 decision. The largest number of jurisdictions bailing-out in one year occurred in the twelve month period from the end of 2011 to the beginning of 2012, and the total number of bailed-out jurisdictions is set to nearly double again in the second half of 2012. Because of bailout the number of jurisdictions subject to preclearance is rapidly shifting. Bailout permitted the Court to avoid constitutional questions in NAMUDNO, but bailout enables more; it provides a constitutional basis for the Court to uphold preclearance. Given its amplified use, constitutional evaluations of the VRA would be greatly augmented by assessing bailout. This paper argues the Court should uphold section 5 of the VRA because of the existence, and increased use, of the bailout process. In order to make this argument this paper will: (1) review contemporary debates regarding the constitutionality of preclearance; (2) explore the history of the VRA; (3) examine empirical evidence justifying preclearance; (4) explain Congress’s power to regulate elections; and (5) examine legal doctrines related to preclearance. The importance of the bailout process will be explored in each section to illustrate preclearance as a constitutionally justified use of congressional power.