cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Prebreakdown current behavior in DC volume breakdown in transformer oil

The phenomenology of prebreakdown events in transformer oil is investigated using high-speed electrical and optical diagnostics. Data collection using a coaxial test setup terminating into a 50/spl Omega/ load line to simulate a matched impedance system allows very fast risetimes. Transmission line type current sensors and capacitive voltage dividers with temporal resolution of 300 ps provide information about the discharge voltage and current. Steady, DC currents ranging from a few nA with less than 10 kV of applied voltage, to a few /spl mu/A prior to full breakdown are measured using an electrometer. Prebreakdown events are measured with positive and negative charging voltages with respect to ground. Light emission from the discharge is measured using a series of fast photomultiplier tubes, (risetimes 800 ps), that observe positive and negative electrode tips and center of the channel. Preliminary results on self-breakdown (breakdown voltage +44 kV) with a 2.35 mm gap show a DC (seed) current of several hundred nA with prebreakdown spikes of a few mA immediately before final breakdown. Periodicity of the current spikes combined with a general increase in magnitude prior to full breakdown has been observed. Data collection using a negative charging line, with respect to ground with enhanced field at the cathode, indicates current spikes that are typically 25 to 50% faster than spikes using a positive charging line with enhanced field at the anode. Detailed optical diagnostics along with high-speed electrical diagnostics of the pre-breakdown phase will address the physical mechanisms initiating volume breakdown.
DNA and RNA and the cytoarchitecture of human frontal cortex.

DNA and RNA were studied in the layers of human prefrontal cortex by quantitative microchemical analyses on microtome-prepared serial frozen sections. Eleven cortical specimens from six autopsy brains were assayed. The mean total number of cells per mm3 of fresh cortex was estimated from DNA values. The number in layer I (61,000) was falsely high because of the inclusion of cells from the pia mater. From a plateau of 82,000-86,000 in layers II, IIIa and IIIb, the number of cells rose to 91,000 and 113,000 in layers IIIc and IV, respectively. The mean number was slightly lower in layer V, then gradually rose through layer VI to 127,000 cells in white matter. Per unit dry weight, DNA and cells varied much less than per unit volume; values averaged 14 per cent higher in layers II and IV than in neighbouring layers and in white matter were 20 per cent lower than in layer I. Intracortical patterns of RNA and RNA/cell reflected chiefly the distribution of neuronal cell bodies. Per unit fresh volume, RNA roughly paralleled DNA in layers I-V; through layer VI and into white matter RNA declined as DNA rose, reflecting the decline in neurons and increasing predominance of glial cells of lower RNA content. Per unit dry weight, RNA rose 50 per cent from layer I to layer II; a plateau of high values extended through layers II-V, then RNA declined rapidly through layer VI to a level in white matter that was 28 per cent of the value in layer II. Mean RNA/cell in cortex was 9-8 pg, with a maximum in layer IIIb (11.4 pg); in subcortical white matter it was 5.3 pg.
A Flexible Classifier Design Framework Based on Multiobjective Programming

We propose a multiobjective programming (MOP) framework for finding compromise solutions that are satisfactory for each of multiple competing performance criteria in a pattern classification task. The fundamental idea for our formulation of classifier learning, which we refer to as iterative constrained optimization (ICO), evolves around improving one objective while allowing the rest to degrade. This is achieved by the optimization of individual objectives with proper constraints on the remaining competing objectives. The constraint bounds are adjusted based on the objective functions obtained in the most recent iteration. An aggregated utility function is used to evaluate the acceptability of local changes in competing criteria, i.e., changes from one iteration to the next. Although many MOP approaches developed so far are formal and extensible to large number of competing objectives, their capabilities are examined only with two or three objectives. This is mainly because practical problems become significantly harder to manage when the number of objectives gets larger. We, however, illustrate the proposed framework in the context of automatic language identification (LID) of 12 languages and three dialects. This LID task requires the simultaneous minimization of the false-acceptance and false-rejection rates for each of the 15 languages/dialects, and, hence, is an MOP problem with a total of 30 competing objectives. In our experiments, we observed that the ICO-trained classifiers result in not only reduced error rates but also a good balance among the many competing objectives when compared to those classifiers that minimize an overall objective. We interpret our experimental findings as evidence for ICO offering a greater degree of freedom for classifier design.
Hormonal control of renal water excretion

Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) is clearly the hormone of paramount importance in the regulation of water excretion by the mammalian kidney. However, other hormones also influence renal water excretion and this portion of the symposium will examine how some of these hormones exert their effects. Because of the interrelationships of endocrine systems in homeostasis, almost any known hormone might be construed as having some effect; however, we shall consider here only those hormones which are thought to have major effects on renal handling of water. In theory, these effects might be mediated directly by hormonal alteration of renal tubular permeability to water, renal hemodynamics, tubular fluid and plasma electrolyte concentrations, collecting duct sensitivity to ADH or tubular fluid delivery to concentrating and diluting segments of the nephron. As will be apparent from this review, some hormones are known to combine several of these actions while the actions of others remain uncertain.
Reciprocal Associations between Boys’ Externalizing Problems and Mothers’ Depressive Symptoms

Although much has been written about the utility of applying transactional models to the study of parenting practices, relatively few researchers have used such an approach to examine how children influence maternal well-being throughout their development. Using a sample of males from predominantly low-income families, the current study explored reciprocal relations between boys' overt disruptive behavior (boys' ages 5 to 10 years) and maternal depressive symptoms. We then examined this model with youth-reported antisocial behaviors (ASB) and maternal depressive symptoms when the boys were older, ages 10 to 15. In middle childhood, evidence was found for both maternal and child effects from boys' ages 5 to 6 using both maternal and alternative caregiver report of child aggressive behavior. In the early adolescence model, consistent maternal effects were found, and child effects were evident during the transition to adolescence (boys' ages 11 to 12). The findings are discussed in reference to reciprocal models of child development and prevention efforts to reduce both maternal depression and the prevalence of child antisocial behavior.
Characterization of a fetal urogenital sinus mesenchymal cell line U4F: Secretion of a negative growth regulatory activity

Mesenchymal cell lines derived from fetal rat urogenital sinus organ cultures have been characterized to establish an in vitro system for addressing growth and differentiation regulatory factors involved in mesenchymal-epithelial interactions during prostate morphogenesis. A continuous cell line was developed and designated U4F. Immunocytochemical analysis showed vimentin intermediate filament content confirming a mesenchymal origin. Previous studies with urogenital sinus organ cultures have reported the expression of a negative growth activity, which is stimulatory to protein synthesis and secretion and alters phenotypic morphology of NBT-II bladder epithelial cells. Subconfluent and confluent U4F monolayers did not produce this growth inhibitory activity. Foci of stacked cells were observed 3 wk postconfluency, which evolved into multicellular spheroids. The negative growth activity was expressed in the conditioned medium coordinate with spheroid formation. Transplanted spheroids continued to express the growth inhibitory activity. Morphologic analysis of spheroids showed a cellular capsule and a core of extracellular matrix. A continuous cell strain (U4F1) with altered phenotypic properties, arose spontaneously from long-term U4F cultures. The U4F1 cell strain did not form spheroids, yet expressed the negative growth activity constitutively in monolayer culture. Analyses of physicochemical, immunological, and biological properties showed the activity is identical in conditioned media from urogenital sinus organ cultures, U4F spheroids, and U4F1 monolayers. Based on the combined properties, this activity cannot be ascribed to previously characterized negative growth factors. The establishment of this mesenchymal cell culture system will aid in the further identification of paracrine-acting growth and differentiation regulatory factors secreted by fetal mesenchyme.
Social Work Roles in America's Changing Health Care

SUMMARY Legislative reform of health care is dead but major changes are taking place in the marketplace and by states. Managed care, cost containment, corporatization and prepayment are revolutionizing health care. What do these portend for social work's future survival in changing locations, tasks, skills and attitudes? Suggested areas of strength and opportunity as well as needed changes are proposed.
277 CHANGES IN SENSITIVITY TO RICINUS COMMUNIS TOXIN (RICIN) OF RABBIT JEJUNUM DURING THE SUCKLING PERIOD

Pinocytosis is the predominant route of penetration of macromolecules across the small bowel epithelium of newborn animals. We have developed a model system to study this process on jejunal mucosal explants using ricin. Ricin is a potent toxin which inhibits protein synthesis by a mechanism involving binding to galactose surface residues, internalization of its enzymatic component and inactivation of the 60 S ribosomal subunit. Protein synthesis (3H-leucine incorporation) in jejunal explants from fetal, suckling and adult rabbits was measured in organ culture following an initial exposure (30 min, 25°) to ricin (1-25 μg). The rate of inhibition of protein synthesis was age dependent (Fig). High in the fetus, it increased further to a maximum at day 6 postnatally, then decreased rapidly in suckling animals to adult levels at weaning. The high sensitivity to ricin during the colostral period may be related to the following factors currently under study: 1) colostral-milk components stimulating a high rate of endocytosis, 2) transitional maturation changes in membrane properties and 3) changes in sensitivity at the target ribosomal site. The model presented is useful to study modifiers and events influencing mucosal permeability in the developing small intestine.
Urea losses in flooded soils with established oxidized and reduced soil layers

Laboratory batch incubation experiments were conducted to determine in fate of urea-15N applied to floodwater of four rice soils with established oxidized and reduced soil layers. Diffusion-dependent urea hydrolysis was rapid in all soils, with rates ranging from 0.0107 to 0.0159 h-1 and a mean rate of 0.0131 h-1. Rapid loss of 53%–65% applied urea-15N occurred during the first 8 days after application, primarily by NH3 volatilization. At the end of 70 days, an additional 20%–30% of applied urea-15N was lost, primarily through nitrification-denitrification processes. The soil types showed significant differences in total applied urea-15 recovery. Conversion of urea-15N to N2-15N provided direct evidence of urea hydrolysis followed by nitrification-denitrification in flooded soils.
A plug-and-play brain-computer interface to operate commercial assistive technology.

AbstractPurpose: To determine if a brain-computer interface (BCI) could be used as a plug-and-play input device to operate commercial assistive technology (AT), and to quantify the performance impact of such operation. Method: Using a hardware device designed in our lab, participants (11 with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, 22 controls) were asked to operate two devices using a BCI. Results were compared to traditional BCI operation by the same users. Performance was assessed using both accuracy and BCI utility, a throughput metric. 95% confidence bounds on performance differences were developed using a linear mixed model. Results: The observed differences in accuracy and throughput were small and not statistically significant. The confidence bounds indicate that if there is a performance impact of using a BCI to control an AT device, the impact could easily be overcome by the benefits of the AT device itself. Conclusions: BCI control of AT devices is possible, and the performance difference appears to be ...
Using the NCDB for cancer care improvement: an introduction to available quality assessment tools.

Improving the quality of cancer care requires high-quality data, mechanisms to feed back information to hospitals, systems to act on the data, and participation of providers. The purpose of this review is to describe how the National Cancer Database (NCDB) can be utilized to improve the quality of cancer care in the United States through a variety of benchmarking reports and data feedback mechanisms available to hospitals approved by the Commission on Cancer (CoC). J. Surg. Oncol. 2009;99:488–490. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Dual-truncation Delta Sigma digital-to-analogue convertors

ΔΣ digital-to-analogue convertors are described which are able to provide an analogue output signal with high linearity and low quantisation error. Simulations indicate that the performance of the proposed structures is far superior to that of the commonly used single-bit single-truncation convertors
Aminothienopyridazine inhibitors of tau aggregation: Evaluation of structure–activity relationship leads to selection of candidates with desirable in vivo properties

Abstract Previous studies demonstrated that members of the aminothienopyridazine (ATPZ) class of tau aggregation inhibitors exhibit a promising combination of in vitro activity as well as favorable pharmacokinetic properties (i.e., brain-penetration and oral bioavailability). Here we report the synthesis and evaluation of several new analogues. These studies indicate that the thienopyridazine core is essential for inhibition of tau fibrillization in vitro, while the choice of the appropriate scaffold decoration is critical to impart desirable ADME-PK properties. Among the active, brain-penetrant ATPZ inhibitors evaluated, 5-amino-N-cyclopropyl-3-(4-fluorophenyl)-4-oxo-3,4-dihydrothieno[3,4-d]pyridazine-1-carboxamide (43) was selected to undergo maximum tolerated dose and one-month tolerability testing in mice. The latter studies revealed that this compound is well-tolerated with no notable side-effects at an oral dose of 50 mg/kg/day.
The Systems Approach to the National Health Problem

The practice of medicine is presently undergoing considerable modification due to technological innovations. There is a constant flow of new drugs, new treatment methods, new diagnostic techniques and new administrative procedures. In some respects, this plethora of new developments has proved an embarrassment to the medical system. New drugs are marketed and then withdrawn as side effects are manifested; pre-paid medical plans and hospitalization insurance rates are continually modified to keep pace with the new services provided; and the average practitioner has difficulty keeping abreast of new developments while trying to provide maximum service to his patients. In order to enable this system to function effectively in the face of increasing technical advances, the medical profession will have to draw on the resources of systems analysis. This is the only way in which the interrelationships of the different parts of the system can be understood, hopefully to the point where it will be possible to predict the effects on any particular part of the system of changes made in other parts. Since the feedback loops of large social systems such as the medical system are still not well understood, the use of gaming and simulation procedures is proposed as a first step toward such a systems study.
Fiber optic affinity ligand sensor for quantification of petroleum and bioremediation

A novel system incorporating optical fiber long-period grating (LPG)-based sensors for rapid detection of biological targets is presented to address the current need for highly responsive, inexpensive, instrumentation for in-situ subsurface bioremediation technologies. With the appropriate configuration, the LPG sensor is able to measure key environmental parameters. The sensor allows for highly sensitive, real-time, refractive index measurements and by applying affinity coatings to the fiber surface, specific binding of molecules can be accomplished using swellable polymers or ligand-based affinity coatings. Advantages of the sensors have are that they are highly responsive, low profile, and can be serially multiplexed within a single-ended probe-like arrangement. This arrangement can be utilized either locally for site characterization or as a distributed sensor to map contaminant levels at multiple depths over a large area. The performance advantages make optical fiber sensors ideal for detection of environmental targets in drinking water, groundwater, soil, and other complex samples. This paper presents recent long-period grating-based sensor results that demonstrate the potential for bioremediation as well as a variety of other chemical and biological sensing applications.
Coding properties of Oxytricha trifallax ( Sterkiella histriomuscorum ) macronuclear chromosomes: analysis of a pilot genome project

The macronuclear genomes of spirotrichous ciliates are almost entirely polyploid, single-gene chromosomes (“nanochromosomes”). We recently performed a pilot genome project for a member of this group, Oxytricha trifallax (Sterkiella histriomuscorum), in which ∼2000 nanochromosomes were cloned at random and end-sequenced. Here we describe the global properties of the coding regions predicted for these molecules, including nucleotide composition, codon usage, and intron properties. In identifying splice donor, acceptor and branch sites, we found that longer introns in Oxytricha have a stronger signal at the donor site than do smaller introns, as has been found for Caenorhabditis elegans and Drosophila, despite the overall small size of the introns. A systematic search for multi-gene chromosomes identified 11 candidate nanochromosomes. We compare the results from this large dataset with those obtained from earlier studies and with statistics recorded from ciliates and other eukaryotes.
Questions and Answers of Session II

AUDIENCE MEMBER: You showed us data from two sets of experiments. One is related to the dynamics of transmitter release from the presynaptic terminal. Another one is related to the saturation of a transmitter, glutamate, on its postsynaptic receptors. But, in your conclusion, you didn’t mention these two systems have any relationship. If you change the presynaptic release, would that influence the saturation of the postsynaptic receptor?
Detailed Characterization of Carbohydrate Linkage and Sequence in an Ion Trap Mass Spectrometer: Glycosphingolipids

Electrospray ionization with a quadrupole ion trap (qIT) mass analyzer has been utilized to ascertain structural detail obtained with glycoconjugate samples. In this report, an isomeric disialyl glycosphingolipid sample extracted from human brain tissue was evaluated for sequence, branching, and linkage information. Results were obtained that were qualitatively comparable with triple-quadrupole instruments (Q1q2Q3) with major carbohydrate fragments from C1-O glycosidic rupture and additional fragments that provided a determination of sphingosine andN-acyl heterogeneity of the ceramide moiety. In unique contrast, however, the qIT extended carbohydrate understanding through multistep mass spectrometric (MSn) studies providing for the first time pyran cross-ring cleavages that define the interresidue linkage structure for glycolipids. This was achieved by selecting secondary fragments (MS2) free from the energy sinks of facile bond rupture that dominate product ion spectra. Isolation and activation of these substructures result in a more uniform distribution of fragments, providing structural insights previously inaccessible by tandem mass spectrometry.
Tectonic and Depositional Model of the Arabian and Adjoining Plates During the Silurian–Devonian

During the Late Ordovician and Early Silurian, the western part of the Arabian Peninsula was covered by polar glaciers that advanced from the south pole in African Gondwana. During this period, nondeposition, erosion, or marginal marine conditions prevailed in eastern and northern Arabia. When the glaciers melted in the Early Silurian, sea level rose sharply and the paleo-Tethys Ocean transgressed the Arabian and adjoining plates depositing a thick, organic-rich shale directly over the glaciogenic and periglacial rocks and related unconformities. The post-glacial sequence coarsens upward reflecting the passage of a coastline prograding northward from African and Arabian Gondwana to northern Arabia. A sea level drop in the Late Silurian placed the study area in a terrestrial environment; however, as sea level recovered in the Early Devonian, a carbonate sequence blanketed most of the area. The transgression, however, was interrupted by regional uplift and local orogenic movements in the Middle and Late Devonian. These movements constitute the onset of Hercynian tectonism, which resulted in erosion of the older sequences, depositional hiatuses, and regional facies changes.
Real-time SLAM with piecewise-planar surface models and sparse 3D point clouds

This paper reports on the use of planar patches as features in a real-time simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) system to model smooth surfaces as piecewise-planar. This approach works well for using observed point clouds to correct odometry error, even when the point cloud is sparse. Such sparse point clouds are easily derived by Doppler velocity log sensors for underwater navigation. Each planar patch contained in this point cloud can be constrained in a factor-graph-based approach to SLAM so that neighboring patches are sufficiently coplanar so as to constrain the robot trajectory, but not so much so that the curvature of the surface is lost in the representation. To validate our approach, we simulated a virtual 6-degree of freedom robot performing a spiral-like survey of a sphere, and provide real-world experimental results for an autonomous underwater vehicle used for automated ship hull inspection. We demonstrate that using the sparse 3D point cloud greatly improves the self-consistency of the map. Furthermore, the use of our piecewise-planar framework provides an additional constraint to multi-session underwater SLAM, improving performance over monocular camera measurements alone.
Properties of lipid bilayer membranes separating two aqueous phases: Determination of membrane thickness***

Lipid membranes formed from egg phosphatidyl choline and n-tetradecane in aqueous 0·1 M -NaCl are shown to be 61 ± 10 A in thickness. The determination of thickness is based on quantitative measurement of the intensity of light reflected from the membrane and on knowledge of the refractive index of the membrane determined from Brewster angle data. The 61 A thickness of these membranes is compatible with the view that the structure is a bimolecular leaflet similar to the postulated structural form of the lipid component of biological membranes.
Aromatase inhibitor-associated arthralgia syndrome

Aromatase inhibitors (AIs) are widely used as an adjuvant endocrine treatment in postmenopausal women with early-stage breast cancer. Clinical trials have assessed 5 years of AI therapy, either as an alternative to tamoxifen for primary adjuvant therapy of breast cancer, or after 5 years of adjuvant tamoxifen. Treatment of 2-3 years' duration after 2-3 years of tamoxifen has also been studied. AI therapy brings side effects related to estrogen deprivation, and this side effect profile differs in clinically relevant ways from that seen with tamoxifen. In particular, the selective estrogen receptor modulatory effects of tamoxifen contribute to menopausal symptoms, vaginal discharge, and the rare but worrisome risks of thromboembolism and uterine carcinoma. By contrast, the low levels of estrogen achieved with aromatase inhibition contribute to menopausal symptoms, vaginal dryness and sexual dysfunction, and accelerated bone demineralization with risk of osteoporosis and osteoporotic fracture. Clinical experience also suggests that AI therapy is associated with a novel musculoskeletal side effect consisting of an arthralgia syndrome. The actual incidence of AI-associated arthralgias or musculoskeletal symptoms is not known, though such symptoms are quite prevalent and appear more commonly with AI use than with tamoxifen. Arthralgias can be a reason for discontinuation of AI treatment. The possible mechanisms of AI-associated arthralgia are unclear. Estrogen deficiency causes bone loss, which in turn contributes to arthralgia. Less well-studied functions of estrogen include regulating immune cells and cytokines involved in bone remodeling, and modulating pain sensitivity at the level of the central nervous system. Arthralgia and arthritis have seldom been rigorously differentiated in clinical trials of AIs. Assessment of inflammatory and rheumatologic markers, as well as detailed evaluation of patient symptoms using appropriate quality-of-life instruments, may be warranted in order to understand both the symptoms and the etiology of the arthralgia syndrome. Treatment options for arthralgia (primarily non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are currently inadequate, but areas of active research include high-dose vitamin D and new-targeted therapies to inhibit bone loss.
Artificial Control of Nitrate Respiration through the lac Promoter Permits the Assessment of Oxygen-Mediated Posttranslational Regulation of the nar Operon in Pseudomonas aeruginosa

In this study, oxygen and nitrate regulation of transcription and subsequent protein expression of the unique narK1K2GHJI respiratory operon of Pseudomonas aeruginosa were investigated. Under the control of PLAC, P. aeruginosa was able to transcribe nar and subsequently express methyl viologen-linked nitrate reductase activity under aerobic conditions without nitrate. Modulation of PLAC through the LacI repressor enabled us to assess both transcriptional and posttranslational regulation by oxygen during physiological whole-cell nitrate reduction.
Towards high performing hospital enterprise systems: an empirical and literature based design framework

Our understanding of enterprise systems (ES) is gradually evolving towards a sense of design which leverages multidisciplinary bodies of knowledge that may bolster hybrid research designs and together further the characterisation of ES operation and performance. This article aims to contribute towards ES design theory with its hospital enterprise systems design (HESD) framework, which reflects a rich multidisciplinary literature and two in-depth hospital empirical cases from the US and UK. In doing so it leverages systems thinking principles and traditionally disparate bodies of knowledge to bolster the theoretical evolution and foundation of ES. A total of seven core ES design elements are identified and characterised with 24 main categories and 53 subcategories. In addition, it builds on recent work which suggests that hospital enterprises are comprised of multiple internal ES configurations which may generate different levels of performance. Multiple sources of evidence were collected including electro...
New millimeter wave source

The generation of monochromatic current modulation of an intense relativistic electron beam for producing high power millimeter wave is studied theoretically. The frequency mismatch, gap electric breakdown and electromagnetic isolation of the cavities are investigated by particle simulation for various beam parameter and geometric configuration.© (1994) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Extracting context from the web to help visually impaired pedestrians develop cognitive maps of their environments

A rich cognitive map of an environment can enhance an individual's experience within the space. However, acquiring knowledge about an environment can be challenging for people with visual impairments. They often need support by sighted people to understand what is in the environment, associate meaning to these objects and places, identify where different objects and places are positioned, and their spatial relationship with each other. In this talk, I will present how the power of the Web can be leveraged in ubiquitous computing tools to help a user learn an environment. I will discuss what information is required by visually impaired pedestrians, when and where to provide this information, and also how to collect and present it. Finally, I will describe how this work can be extended to benefit the general population.
Rings of finite representation type and modules of finite Morley rank

This paper deals with rings whose modules have very pleasant decomposition properties: the right pure semisimple rings. The category of right modules over such a ring is, in many ways, similar to the category of modules over a semisimple artinian ring. Yet it is still an open question whether or not pure semisimplicity actually is a two-sided property (and hence [30] coincides with being of finite representation type). Most of the arguments in this paper are model-theoretic-algebraic in nature: it seems that ideas from model theory, and from the model theory of modules, find natural application in the context considered here. The paper is organized into three sections. The first is introductory and with it I attempt to make the other sections accessible to a reasonably wide readership. In the second section are gathered together various equivalents to right pure semisimplicity. Their equivalence is given a comparatively short, unified, essentially model-theoretic-algebraic proof. The main theorem, in the third section, is that a ring is of finite representation type if and only if all its (right) modules have finite Morley rank. A number of related results are developed. Most of these involve some model theory in their statement, but many are, in essense, algebraic. Since a good deal of information has been compressed into the introductory section, this section should, perhaps, first be read through quickly, and then referred back to as the need arises. This section also is meant to serve as background to a sequel, in which I consider pp formulas and types in terms of the corresponding matrices, and in which the main aim is more purely algebraic. The global conventions are: R denotes a ring with identity; “module”
Classification issues in the analysis of complex travel behavior

Researchers have devoted considerable effort to identifying homogeneous travel-behavior groups, each of which also has distinctive sociodemographic characteristics. Interest in these efforts has been fueled by both theoretical and applied concerns. From a theoretical perspective, if such behaviorally and sociodemographically homogeneous groups cari be identified, we would have an improved understanding of the determinants of travel. From an applied perspective, because spatial choice models assume behavioral homogeneity within each sociodemographically defined subgroup, one would like to be able to identify groups that are homogeneous with respect to both behavior and sociodemographics. Most previous efforts to define such groups have classified individuals on the basis of one-day travel records. In this paper we review these efforts, note the problems inherent in using one-day travel records for identifying homogeneous travel-behavior groups, and use standard grouping procedures to classify individuals on the basis of behavior observed over a longer time period (five weeks). Using multi-day travel data means that the travel measures employed in classifying individuals are different from and more complex than those used with one-day data. We identify five travel-behavior groups, each of which has distinctive socio-demographic characteristics. Considerable intra-group variability remains, however, even though the groups are classified on the basis of longer-term behavior. The paper concludes with an examination of the implications of day-to-day variability in individual travel for classification procedures.
On the origin of deformation microstructures in austenitic stainless steel: part I—microstructures

Abstract A comprehensive characterization of room temperature deformation microstructures was carried out by transmission electron microscopy for ion irradiated and deformed AISI 316LN austenitic stainless steel. Deformation microstructures were produced by a recently developed disk-bend test method and also by a uniaxial tensile test. Cross-slip was dramatically suppressed by the radiation-induced defects and slip occurred predominantly by planar glide of Shockley partial dislocations. Deformed microstructures consisted of piled-up dislocations, nanotwin layers, stacking faults, and defect-reduced dislocation channel bands. Analyses revealed that all these features were different manifestations of the same type of deformation band, namely a composite of overlapping faulted layers produced by Shockley partial dislocations.
Single-incision versus hand-assisted laparoscopic colectomy: a case-matched series.

Background Single-incision laparoscopic colorectal surgery is an emerging modality. We incorporated this technique as an alternative to hand-assisted laparoscopic surgery. We investigated intraoperative and short-term outcomes following single-incision laparoscopic colectomy compared with hand-assisted laparoscopic colectomy.
Ecological simulation model of Los Angeles Harbor

A quasi-steady state numerical ecosystem model was designed to help evaluate the potential impact of various scenarios of effluent treatment and of a landfill on the distribution of phytoplankton and inorganic nutrients in Los Angeles and Long Beach harbors Formulations included (a) tidal circulation, (b) phytoplankton growth and oxygen production as a function of temperature, light, and nutrients, (c) grazing by zooplankton, (d) respiration and nutrient regeneration by the benthos, (e) biochemical oxidation of organics, and (f) nitrification Phytoplankton nitrogen, ammonium, nitrate, and oxygen were the state variables, which were simulated with diel and spatial variability for a range of seasonal conditions. Physical circulation was indicated to be a primary factor governing the distribution of state variables, and the landfill resulted in significant alterations. Simulated phytoplankton stocks approximated the upper range of reported concentrations, indicating a satisfactory prediction of bloom conditions. The model indicated that while light may usually regulate maximum phytoplankton levels, under bloom conditions nutrient limitation may also be important Most of the outer Los Angeles Harbor was affected by the effluent, as shown by comparison to the case with zero input Simulations for secondary versus primary treatment converged a short distance from the outfall in response to high BOD oxidation rates. In general, total phytoplankton crop was not greatly affected by the change from primary to secondary treatment, and predation on phytoplankton was small
Calculation of the transport properties of liquid aluminum with equilibrium and non-equilibrium molecular dynamics

Abstract In this paper, we utilize the techniques of equilibrium and non-equilibrium molecular dynamics to calculate the shear viscosity and the self-diffusion coefficient of liquid aluminum. We use the embedded-atom method potential for these calculations.
Hardness of dense α- and β-Si3N4 ceramics

On montre que la durete des nitrures de silicium de forme α est superieure a celle des nitrures de forme beta
The generation of high biomass from chlororespiring bacteria using a continuous fed-batch bioreactor.

A continuous fed-batch reactor system was developed to rapidly obtain dense chlororespiring cultures of Anaeromyxobacter dehalogenans strain 2CP-C. A syringe pump continuously delivered concentrated 2,6-dichlorophenol (50–150 mM) to an anaerobic reactor vessel at a rate that sustained linear growth but prevented the substrate toxicity of chlorophenol. Dechlorination was not significantly inhibited by end product phenol up to 8 mM. A cell density of 76.8 mg protein l−1 was obtained in 24 h. Specific growth rates averaged 0.033 h−1at 50% substrate limitation, which was in agreement with the maximum specific growth rate of 0.068 h−1. This reactor system provides an efficient, cost-effective, and convenient method to rapidly obtain dense dechlorinating biomass and is promising to accelerate investigations of enzymes involved in chlororespiration.
Delayed progression of condylar cartilage degeneration, by reduction of the discoidin domain receptor 2, in the temporomandibular joints of osteoarthritic mouse models

Objective To determine whether reduction of the discoidin domain receptor 2 (Ddr2) delays the progression of condylar cartilage degeneration in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) of mouse models with osteoarthritis (OA). Methods Double-heterozygous (Col11a1- and Ddr2-haploinsufficiency, Col11a1+/−;Ddr2+/−) mice were generated. TMJs of Ddr2+/− mice were subjected to partial discectomy. Condylar cartilage from the TMJ of Col11a1+/−;Ddr2+/− mice, surgically treated (discectomy) Ddr2+/− mice, and their corresponding controls was characterized by means of histology and evaluated using a scoring system specific to mouse joints. Results The progression of condylar cartilage degeneration was significantly delayed in the TMJ of Col11a1+/−;Ddr2+/− mice compared with those of the Col11a1+/− mice. The progression of condylar cartilage degeneration in the TMJ of Ddr2+/− mice following discectomy was also significantly delayed when compared with their wild-type littermates. Conclusion Reduced expression of Ddr2 delays the progression of condylar cartilage degeneration, induced either by type XI collagen haploinsufficiency or by a partial discectomy, in TMJ.
A study of carry‐under phenomena in vapor liquid separation

Vapor-liquid separation by gravity becomes more difficult when the system volumetric capacity decreases and power density increases. An analytical and experimental study of the carry-under problem (vapor entrained in the downcomer) was conducted on the effects of parameters on the amount of carry- under. Experiments were carried out on an atmospheric air-water loop and a high- pressure steam-water loop. A nondimensional correlation was derived for both air- water and steam-water data. (D.L.C.)
A parallel implementation of genetic programming that achieves super-linear performance

This paper describes the successful parallel implementation of genetic programming on a network of processing nodes using the transputer architecture. With this approach, researchers of genetic algorithms and genetic programming can acquire computing power that is intermediate between the power of currently available workstations and that of supercomputers at intermediate cost. This approach is illustrated by a comparison of the computational effort required to solve a benchmark problem. Because of the decoupled character of genetic programming, our approach achieved a nearly linear speed up from parallelization. In addition, for the best choice of parameters tested, the use of subpopulations delivered a super-linear speed-up in terms of the ability of the algorithm to solve the problem. Several examples are also presented where the parallel genetic programming system evolved solutions that are competitive with human performance.
The Role of Twelve-Step-Related Spirituality in Addiction Recovery

This paper reviews empirical studies conducted on the role of spirituality and religiosity (S/R) characteristics in 12-step recovery among program members followed up after substance abuse treatment and those assessed independent of formal treatment. Aspects of spiritual functioning that change in relation to program participation and those S/R characteristics that were found to mediate the association between program involvement and drinking-related outcomes are discussed. In addition, a review is provided of 12-step program studies investigating S/R-related predictors of clinical outcomes relevant to risk of relapse among members in long-term recovery. To further examine the role of S/R characteristics in recovery, a study was conducted on long-term AA members to assess the relationship of S/R characteristics and AA program involvement to craving for alcohol and emotional distress after controlling for relevant demographic variables. Feeling God’s presence daily, believing in a higher power as a universal spirit, and serving as an AA sponsor were all predictive of positive outcomes.
Effects of dispersion on SOA nonlinear impairments with DPSK signals

We investigate experimentally the effects of uncompensated and compensated chromatic dispersion on the nonlinear optical impairments induced by an SOA on DPSK signals detected with a balanced receiver.
DSM-III personality disorders in generalized anxiety, panic/agoraphobia, and obsessive-compulsive disorders

In an earlier report, we stated that personality profiles of patients with panic disorder/agoraphobia (n = 187) and obsessive-compulsive disorder ([ODC] n = 51) were similar, albeit more pronounced in OCD, suggesting that the link between panic disorder/agoraphobia and DSM-III personality disorders (PDs) or traits may be nonspecific. The present report extends the comparative study of DSM-III PDs/traits, as assessed by the Personality Diagnostic Questionnaire (PDQ), by adding a third diagnostic group of 39 patients with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). The personality assessment of panic disorder/agoraphobia and GAD patients yielded virtually identical results on the PDQ and Eysenck Personality Inventory (EPI). Because GAD lacks the prominent panic, phobic, and obsessive-compulsive symptoms of other anxiety disorders, the present findings provide strong support for a nonspecific link between panic disorder/agoraphobia and DSM-III PDs/traits and for the presence of common personality characteristics in anxiety disorders.
The elderly guardianship hearing: A socio-legal encounter

Abstract This study examines guardianship hearings for the aged as socio-legal encounters. The legal encounter is similar to the encounter as Goffman (1961) describes it in the following ways: it is an event bounded in time and space; and, it involves the temporary formation, and then dissolution, of a “we” in action. This study demonstrates that the legal encounter differs from the encounter that Goffman describes in the following ways: it is structurally constrained by guardianship law; it has a “prep-period,” suggesting that boundaries may be more stagelike than absolute; and the legal encounter does not operate as a fully consensual gathering. Analysis focuses on the structure of, and the interaction within the hearing, as both affect the adjudication process and the elderly proposed ward. Implications for legal representation of the elderly client are probed in the context of the guardianship hearing as focused encounter.
Electrophysiological correlates of hyperalgesic priming in vitro and in vivo

We have modeled the transition from acute to chronic pain in the rat. In this model (termed hyperalgesic priming) a chronic state develops after a prior inflammatory process or exposure to an inflammatory mediator, in which response to subsequent exposure to prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is characterized by a protein kinase Ce-dependent marked prolongation of mechanical hyperalgesia. To assess the effect of priming on the function of the nociceptor, we have performed in vitro patch clamp and in vivo single-fiber electrophysiology studies using tumor necrosis factor α to induce priming. In vitro, the only change observed in nociceptors cultured from primed animals was a marked hyperpolarization in resting membrane potential (RMP); prolonged sensitization, measured at 60 minutes, could not be tested in vitro. However, complimentary with behavioral findings, in vivo baseline mechanical nociceptive threshold was significantly elevated compared to controls. Thirty minutes after injection of PGE2 into the peripheral receptive field, both primed and control nociceptors showed enhanced response to mechanical stimulation. However, 60 minutes after PGE2 administration, the response to mechanical stimulation was further increased in primed but not in control nociceptors. Thus, at the level of the primary afferent nociceptor, it is possible to demonstrate both altered function at baseline and prolonged PGE2-induced sensitization. Intrathecal antisense (AS) to Kv7.2, which contributes to RMP in sensory neurons, reversibly prevented the expression of priming in both behavioral and single-fiber electrophysiology experiments, implicating these channels in the expression of hyperalgesic priming.
Relationships between plasma adiponectin and body fat distribution, insulin sensitivity, and plasma lipoproteins in Alaskan Yup'ik Eskimos: the Center for Alaska Native Health Research study.

Adiponectin, a protein, secreted by adipose tissue has anti-atherogenic, anti-inflammatory, and insulin-sensitizing actions. We examined the relationship between plasma adiponectin and adiposity, insulin resistance, plasma lipids, glucose, leptin and anthropometric measurements in adult 316 men and 353 women Yup’ik Eskimos in Southwest Alaska. Adiponectin concentration was negatively associated with BMI, percent of body fat, sum of skin folds, waist circumference, triglycerides, insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), fasting insulin, and leptin in both men and women, and also with glucose in women. Adiponectin concentration correlated positively with high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) concentration, and also with low density lipoprotein cholesterol in women. Insulin sensitive individuals (HOMA-IR < 3.52, n = 442) had higher plasma adiponectin concentrations than more insulin resistant individuals (HOMA-IR ≥ 3.52, n = 224): 11.02 ± 0.27 μg/mL vs. 8.26 ± 0.32 μg/mL, P <.001. Adiponectin concentrations did not differ between groups of participants with low and high level of risk for developing coronary heart disease. No difference in plasma adiponectin levels was found among Yup’ik Eskimos and Caucasians matched for sex, age and BMI. In conclusion, circulating adiponectin concentrations were most strongly associated with sum of skin folds in Yup’ik men and with HDL-C levels, sum of skin folds, waist circumference, insulin and triglycerides concentrations in Yup’ik women.