cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Simulation of Aperiodic Bipedal Sprinting

Synthesis of legged locomotion through dynamic simulation is useful for exploration of the mechanical and control variables that contribute to efficient gait. Most previous simulations have made use of periodicity constraints, a sensible choice for investigations of steady-state walking or running. Sprinting from rest, however, is aperiodic by nature and this aperiodicity is central to the goal of the movement, as performance is determined in large part by a rapid acceleration phase early in the race. The purpose of this study was to create a novel simulation of aperiodic sprinting using a modified spring-loaded inverted pendulum (SLIP) biped model. The optimal control problem was to find the set of controls that minimized the time for the model to run 20 m, and this problem was solved using a direct multiple shooting algorithm that converts the original continuous time problem into piecewise discrete subproblems. The resulting nonlinear programming problem was solved iteratively using a sequential quadratic programming method. The starting point for the optimizer was an initial guess simulation that was a slow alternating-gait "jogging" simulation developed using proportional-derivative feedback to control trunk attitude, swing leg angle, and leg retraction and extension. The optimized aperiodic sprint simulation solution yielded a substantial improvement in locomotion time over the initial guess (2.79 s versus 6.64 s). Following optimization, the model produced forward impulses at the start of the sprint that were four times greater than those of the initial guess simulation, producing more rapid acceleration. Several gait features demonstrated in the optimized sprint simulation correspond to behaviors of human sprinters: forward trunk lean at the start; straightening of the trunk during acceleration; and a dive at the finish. Optimization resulted in reduced foot contact times (0.065 s versus 0.210 s), but contact times early in the optimized simulation were longer to facilitate acceleration. The present study represents the first simulation of multistep aperiodic sprinting with optimal controls. Although the minimized objective function was simple, the model replicated several complex behaviors such as modulation of the foot contact and executing a forward dive at the finish line. None of these observed behaviors were imposed explicitly by constraints but rather were "discovered" by the optimizer. These methods will be extended by addition of musculotendon actuators and joints in order to gain understanding of the influence of musculoskeletal mechanics on gait speed.
GNAS mutations are associated with mucin production in low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasms, villous adenomas, and carcinomas

We read with interest the article by Singhi et al [1] in a recent issue of Human Pathology. The authors reported that a GNASmutation was present in about one-third of both lowgrade and high-grade disseminated appendiceal mucinous neoplasms, and thus, GNAS mutation cannot be used to distinguish between lowand high-grade neoplasms. These tumors are uncommon, and there are limited reported data on the underlying molecular changes in appendiceal mucinous tumors.Wepreviously reported 100%KRASmutations in a cohort of 31 low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasms [2]. Using polymerase chain reaction techniques to evaluate the codon 201 region of exon 8 of theGNAS gene, a subsequent evaluation of our tumors has revealed aGNASmutation in 17 (53.1%) of our 32 mucinous neoplasms. The GNAS mutations were closely divided: 9 were R201C, and 8 were the R201H variant. A total of 8 surgical specimens from the 15 (53.3%) tumors with a GNAS mutation demonstrated excess mucin. Five of the 8 had a simultaneous mucinous cystic lesion involving the ovary, interpreted by the surgical pathologist to have originated in the appendix. The other 3 contained omental mucin. Only 2 (13.3%) of the 15 tumors with wild-type GNAS demonstrated mucin beyond the appendiceal lumen, both with peritoneal implants. We also studied 6 villous adenomas of the appendix, and all contained a GNAS mutation. However, of 9 adenocarcinomas of the appendix, only 2 were mutated, and one of these 2 contained copious mucin histologically. Recent large-scale systematic analyses of variants in cancer have revealed numerous potential candidate cancer genes. One such study identified a nonsynonymous base change at codon 201 of the α-subunit of the stimulatory G protein (GNAS) [3]. This protein serves as a ubiquitously expressed signal transducer that transmits hormonal and growth factor signals to effector proteins, particularly activation of the membrane-associated enzyme adenylate cyclase [4]. Mutations that occur at GNAS codon 201 have been shown to constitutively activate the gene and lead to constitutive cAMP signaling. Other in vitro studies suggest that mutant GNAS might play a direct role in prominent mucin production, the hallmark of appendiceal mucinous neoplasms [5]. Our results provide significant clinical evidence for a relationship between GNAS mutations and mucin production in appendiceal tumors, both the low-grade mucinous neoplasms as well as appendiceal villous adenomas and adenocarcinomas. Our results further suggest that it would be of interest to evaluate other mucinous tumors for possible GNAS genetic changes.
The monos memory transitor: Application in a radiation-hard nonvolatile RAM

Abstract The MONOS (metal-oxide-nitride-oxide-silicon) device is a prime candidate for use as the nonvolatile memory element in a radiation-hardened RAM (random-access memory). The endurance, retention and radiation properties of MONOS memory transistors have been studied as a function of post nitride deposition annealing. Following the nitride layer deposition, all devices were subjected to 800°C oxidation step and some were then annealed at 900°C in nitrogen. The nitrogen anneal produces an increase in memory window size of approximately 40%. The memory window center of the annealed devices is shifted toward more positive voltages and is more stable with endurance cycling. Endurance cycling to 10 9 cycles produces a 20% increase in memory window size and a 60% increase in decay rate. For a radiation total dose of 10 6 rads (Si), the memory window size is essentially unchanged and the decay rate increases approximately 13%. A combination of 10 9 cycles and 10 6 rads (Si) reduces the decades of retention (in sec) from 6.3 to 4.3 for a ±23- V 16- μ sec write/erase pulse.
Contending the Limits of Political Space

Unsettling Accounts: Neither Truth nor Reconciliation in Confessions of State Violence. By Leigh A. Payne Durham, NC: Duke University Press, 2008. 374 pp. $23.95 Paperback (ISBN: 0822340828). The relationship between the state and violence has always been an intimate one (Weber, 1946). The interstate system continues to develop through violent epistemological and material histories of nation-building (that is, colonialism, imperialism, capitalism) that result in egregious forms of state sponsored violence against communities who resist such authoritarian practices. Our “post-colonial” World Order continues to struggle with structurally embedded global inequalities that have contributed to deeply divided societies and impeded possibilities for democratic state transformations. The literature on conflict resolution, transitional justice, democracy, and human rights suggest that the state continues to be a central figure in the production of justice and democracy. Accordingly, the state must confront and redress past atrocities in order to build and institutionalize new democratic frameworks. Leigh A. Payne joins this conversation by charting what she calls “unsettling accounts,” confessions of torture, disappearing, and killing by authoritarian state agents, as a way to challenge the legitimacy of state sponsored violence. Payne argues that these public confessions break the silence of state violence and contribute to reconciliation, justice, and democratic processes because they “do not settle accounts with the past; rather, they unsettle them” (p. 2). This unsettling does not reconcile the past; it provides a dynamic space of political participation that can “contest prevailing views that have impeded the promotion of democratic values” (p. 291). In other words, justice and reconciliation are not served in the moment of political speech, legal frameworks, nor within the mechanisms of Truth and …
Structure of plasma-sprayed zirconia coatings tailored by controlling the temperature and velocity of the sprayed particles

The correlation between particle temperature and velocity with the structure of plasma-sprayed zirconia coatings is studied to determine which parameter most strongly influences the coating structure. The particle temperature and velocity are measured using an integrated optical monitoring system positioned normal to the spraying axis. The total porosity, angular crack distribution, and thermal diffusivity are correlated with the particle temperature and velocity. Results show that the temperature of the sprayed particles has a larger effect on the coating properties than the velocity in the conditions investigated.
Optimal current paths for model electrochemical systems

Optimal control theory is used to determine process limits for a well-stirred fuel cell and a diffusive flow fuel cell, both operating with nonzero flows and in a finite time. Current paths and optimal end states are determined for cells constrained to provide either maximum work output, maximum effectiveness, or maximum profit. A constant current path is found to optimize these three criteria of process performance for the well-stirred fuel cell. In the diffusive flow fuel cell qualitatively different, nonmonotonic current trajectories are obtained for maximum work and maximum profit.
The role of relationships in the transition from doctoral student to independent scholar

Little research and practice has focused specifically on Stage 2 of the doctoral student experience – the critical transition from ‘dependence to independence’. In the United States, a student completes coursework, passes candidacy exams, and begins the dissertation proposal process during Stage 2. Given the distinct experiences associated with this stage, it is important for researchers, faculty and administrators to understand each stage fully. Our goal is to shed light on how students begin to enact the academic career during this critical transition by specifically exploring the role of relationships in the identity development process. We rely on a theoretical framework that brings together sociocultural perspectives of learning and developmental networks to reveal a connection between relationships and learning. This study highlights the effects of relationships and interactions on particular strategies and experiences associated with Stage 2 of doctoral education, and therefore students' identity d...
Whole Blood and Plasma Ascorbic Acid Concentrations in Patients with Pellagra and Associated Deficiency Diseases.

Summary and ConclusionsWhole blood and plasma ascorbic acid determinations made on 70 patients in the nutrition clinic of the Hillman Hospital indicate that 55 of these persons had a whole blood concentration of ascorbic acid lower than in normal controls. In 8 of the 70 cases, the concentration was so low as to suggest that depletion may have been advanced. Most of these patients had clinical evidence of other deficiencies, such as pellagra, beriberi and riboflavin deficiency, but no significant correlation could be made between the blood ascorbic acid values and the symptoms of these deficiency states, nor indeed of scurvy itself. These observations seem pertinent in view of the fact that they were made in late June, at a period when leafy vegetables and berries had been available to the patients for some time, and probably indicate that ascorbic acid deficiency is still greater at other periods. These studies give strong support to the concept that natural-occurring deficiency diseases exist as complex...
Acquisition of English comparative adjectives

Two experiments investigated the acquisition of English comparative adjective forms, Adj + er and more Adj. In Experiment 1, 72 children, four- and seven-years-old, indicated their preferences for the synthetic or periphrastic comparative form for 16 adjectives in a forced-choice judgement task; their responses were compared to those of a group of adults (Graziano-King, 2003). In Experiment 2, a group of 29 children, ranging in age from 5;1 to 10;9, and a group of 11 adults performed a forced-choice judgement task, similar to that of Experiment 1, and an elicited production task, responding to the same 32 adjectives for both tasks. The two studies together support an acquisition trajectory of three stages. In the first stage, children show no preference for either form of the comparative; in the second, they adopt a suffixation rule; and in the third, they abandon the general rule and become conservative learners, eventually reaching the adult target.
In situ activation analysis of marine sediments with252Cf

A seabed nuclear probe has been developed which permits the measurement of up to 33 elements at the parts per thousand to parts per million levels in continental shelf areas. The probe consists of a neutron irradiation source,252Cf, which neutron activates the elements in the minerals of interest. These resulting radioactive elements emit characteristic gamma radiation which is analyzed in situ in 2- to 10 min counting intervals with a Ge(Li) detector system. Details of the irradiation source, the Ge(Li) detector, and spectra taken in situ in a marine environment are discussed with respect to the detection of the minerals at concentrations of economic interest.
Climate change from fossil fuel generated CO2 and energy policy

Projections of the magnitude of global climatic change from combustion generated CO2 are both uncertain and controversial, due in large measure to ignorance of the physical mechanisms involved. Analysis indicates that the uncertainties can be considerably narrowed by considering only the most immediate time frame of possible climatic impact, thereby leading to the possibility of rationally assessing the scope of the threat and the need for remedial action.
Measurement of the second order molecular hyperpolarizability of C60− by nondegenerate four-wave mixing

Abstract We have determined the second order molecular hyperpolarizability γ for the charged species C60− by use of coherent anti-Stokes Raman spectroscopy (CARS) vibrational lineshape analysis. We find γ is 2.4 (± 1.0) × 10−33 esu, a value that is >65 times larger than the corresponding value for the neutral species and is comparable to values for highly conjugated organic polymers like polydiacetylene. The observed increase in γ with addition of charge to the fullerene cage has encouraging implications for the use of charge-transfer and endohedral fullerene complexes in future photonics devices.
Sedative, memory, and performance effects of hypnotics

The sedative, amnestic, and performance disruptive effects of benzodiazepine (Bz) receptor selective and non-selective hypnotics were studied in 23 healthy, normal subjects, aged 26.8±1.0 years. Triazolam (0.25 and 0.50 mg), zolpidem (10 and 20 mg) and placebo were administered, double-blind, at bedtime in a repeated measures design. During an awakening 90 min later (at approximate peak concentration of each drug) a 30-min performance battery which included memory, vigilance, and psychomotor tasks was completed. Each drug and dose impaired memory (both immediate and delayed), vigilance, and psychomotor performance relative to placebo. Among active drugs impairment was greatest with zolpidem 20 mg, next triazolam 0.50 mg, then zolpidem 10 mg, and finally triazolam 0.25 mg. Next morning delayed recall was also impaired by all drugs and doses (i.e. anterograde amnesia). The amnestic and performance-disruptive effects paralleled the relative hypnotic effects of the drugs and doses. No receptor selectivity in these pharmacodynamic effects was observed.
Trans-[Dichlorobis(triphenylphosphine) nickel (II)]•(C2H4Cl2)2: a clathrate of the allogon of Venanzi's tetrahedral complex

Abstract The synthesis of the clathrate compound [NiCl2(PPh3)2]·(C2H4Cl2)2 and a complete X-ray analysis are described. [NiCl2(PPh3)2]·(C2H4Cl2)2 is orthorhombic with a = 23.486(6), b = 20.298(6), c = 8.290(3) A, space group Pbca, Z = 4; R = 0.063. The inclusion compound contains square-planar moieties trans-[NiCl2(PPh3)2] and dichloroethane molecules which do not appear to interact chemically. The X-ray structure of tetrahedral [NiCl2(PPh3)2] has been re-investigated and relevant relationships of molecular parameters between the two allogons are reported.
Analysis of Field Failure Data on HMWPE- and XLPE-Insulated High-Voltage Distribution Cable

The paper summarizes the results from Phase I of EPRI Research Project 1782-1 (EPRI Report EL-3501). Fifteen utilities supplied data on failures and operating parameters for more than 34,000 miles of HMWPE- insulated cables and 47,000 miles of XLPE-insulated cables. Data reduction and statistical analyses identified important predictors of high failure rates. For HMWPE, these are age, operating stress, and year of installation. Age and insulation wall thickness are the most important predictors of high failure rates for XLPE cable.
Active performance enhancement of spray cooling

The effect of synthetic (zero-net-mass-flux) jets on a water spray and on its cooling performance in the non-boiling regime was experimentally investigated. Particle Image Velocimetry and Shadowgraphy were used to evaluate the global and detailed spray characteristics, respectively, under several modes of flow control. Temperature measurements were performed to assess the effects of spray control on the heat transfer. Heat transfer improvements were achieved with flow control, compared to the baseline case, where the mode of control, together with spray properties and the distance between the spray and the hot surface play an important role in cooling enhancement.
Contribution of acetylcholine, vasoactive intestinal polypeptide and nitric oxide to CNS-evoked vagal gastric relaxation in the rat

Several in vitro models of gastric relaxation have elucidated a role of nitric oxide (NO) and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) in non-adrenergic, non-cholinergic (NANC) vagally mediated gastric relaxation. However, these models do not necessarily mimic the events leading to gastric relaxation in the whole animal. We have recently described a vagally mediated gastric relaxation evoked by micro-injection of substance P (SP) into the nucleus raphe obscurus (NRO). The present study was performed to elucidate whether this CNS-stimulated in vivo gastric relaxation involved acetylcholine, NO and VIP. Atropine (1 mg kg-1 i.v.), reduces both the rapid nadir and sustained gastric relaxation evoked by SP in the NRO, and the residual responses are abolished by NG-Nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (L-NAME, 10 mg kg-1 i.v.), an NO synthase inhibitor. Blockade of NO synthase alone is not sufficient to abolish the effect of SP into the NRO on intragastric pressure. A VIP antagonist, [p-chloro-D-Phe6, Leu17]VIP (32 micrograms i.v.) alone, or with the addition of L-NAME, does not affect the nadir of the gastric relaxation in response to SP microinjected into the NRO; however, both antagonists reduce the CNS-evoked sustained intragastric pressure relaxation. We conclude that, in CNS-evoked gastric relaxation, inhibition of cholinergic pathways is potentially important for both the rapid nadir and sustained gastric relaxation, and both NO and VIP contribute to sustained gastric relaxation.
Diffusion of Implanted Nitrogen in Silicon at High Doses

Nitrogen implantation is used to retard gate oxide growth thereby making it particularly usefulfor dual- VT and System On A chip technologies. This paper discusses the diffusion behavior and the concomitant defect evolution at high doses of implanted nitrogen in silicon. This paper shows that as the nitrogen implant dose is increased, the extent of nitrogen diffusion reduces. This paper also reports based onTEM studies, that upon annealing at 750°C, 5 × 10014 N2 +/cm2, 40 keV implant produces Type I extended defects. However, 2 × 1015 N2 +/cm2, 40 keV implant, produces a continuous amorphous layer to a depth ofabout 800 to 900 A from the surface. In addition, upon annealing at 750°C, the 2 × 1015 N2 +/cm2, 40 keV implant produces Type V or solid solubility defects in addition to End of Range or Type II defects.
The Influence of Adolescent Substance Use and Socialization on Deviant Behavior in Young Adulthood

This study examined the impact of adolescent substance use on adult substance use and criminal behavior. Longitudinal data from 657 participants were assessed over 12 years (1969-1981). Latent variable models were used to determine what effect, if any, adolescent drug use had on later deviance. In addition, constructs relevant to traditional theories of social control, such as the extent of socialization and obedience to rules, were also included as predictors. The results showed that a general drug use factor in adolescence significantly predicted adult illicit substance use, theft, and interpersonal aggression. Drug-related accidents (automobile and other) were also predicted from adolescent drug use. These findings are consistent with several theories suggesting that different forms of deviance may influence each other over time.
Toward a Theory of Constitutional Amendment

Constitutional design proceeds under the assumption that institutions have predictable consequences, but modern political science has not pursued the empirical verification of these predicted consequences with much vigor. I shall attempt to link the theoretical premises underlying one important aspect of constitutional design, the amendment process, with the empirical patterns revealed by a systematic, comparative study of constitutions. An examination of all amendments in the 50 American states since 1776 reveals patterns that are then confirmed using data from 32 national constitutions. The interaction of the two key variables affecting amendment rate can be described by an equation that generates predicted amendment rates close to those found in the cross-national empirical analysis. A constitution's length measured in number of words, the difficulty of an amendment process, and the rate of amendment turn out to have interlocking consequences that illuminate principles of constitutional design.
Which Kleene semigroups are finite

Abstract The set of idempotents in any given D -class of a Kleene semigroup is rational. We use Simon's Theorem to obtain some finitude results.
Alfred Emile Cornebise, Ranks and Columns: Armed Forces Newspapers in American Wars (Contributions to the study Of Mass Media and Communications, No.38), Greenwich, Conn.: Greenwood Press, 1993, 232 pp. Cloth, $49.95.

(1994). Alfred Emile Cornebise, Ranks and Columns: Armed Forces Newspapers in American Wars (Contributions to the study Of Mass Media and Communications, No.38), Greenwich, Conn.: Greenwood Press, 1993, 232 pp. Cloth, $49.95. American Journalism: Vol. 11, No. 2, pp. 180-181.
AMS radiocarbon dating of bone osteocalcin

Abstract AMS 14C values have been obtained on collagen and osteocalcin fractions in a suite of modern, Holocene and late Pleistocene bone samples of varying collagen content. These studies were undertaken to examine the accuracy of 14C age determinations on osteocalcin in bone samples where collagen and collagen-derived organic products are retained in significantly reduced concentrations. In a series of bones of assumed similar age, large discordances in the 14C values of the osteocalcin and collagen fractions are observed. For the samples we have examined, these discordances are always associated with reduced concentrations of collagen contained in the bones.
Transitioning the External Applicant Into a Cardiology Training Program.

Match day brings mixed emotions for trainee applicants matching into programs outside their own residency program. Although the joy of matching into a cardiology fellowship program is insurmountable, the pressure of having to move to a new place and the nervousness about working with new people
Solubilized elastin as a substrate for elastase and elastase inhibitor determinations

Abstract This paper describes a test for elastase which employs oxalic acid-solubilized elastin as the substrate. The test described is more sensitive than those using insoluble elastin-dye complexes and more specific than the recently introduced tests using synthetic peptide-esters. It can be used in the presence of other proteins, including serum, and is especially suited for the study of serum elastase inhibitors in health and disease.
On the value distribution theory of elliptic functions

The Nevanlinna characteristic of a nonconstant elliptic function φ (z) satisfiesT(r, φ)=Kr 2 (1+o(1)) asr→∞ whereK is a nonzero constant. In this paper, we completely answer the following question: For which polynomialsQ(z, u 0,...,u n ) inu 0,...,u n , having coefficientsa(z) satisfyingT(r, a)=o(r 2) asr→∞, will the meromorphic functionh Q (z)=Q(z, ϕ(z),...,ϕ(n)(z)) either be identically zero or satisfyN(r, 1/h Q )=o(r 2) asr→∞? In fact, we answer this question for rational functionsQ(z, u 0,...,u n ) inu 0,...,u n , and also obtain analogous results for the Weierstrass functions ζ(z) and σ(z).
The third persona: An ideological turn in rhetorical theory

Wander finally answers his critics (who had various rejoinders to his “The Ideological Turn in Modern Criticism,” CSSJ, Spring 1983), with an extension of his original position, including development of the concept of “the third persona.”
Genetic regulation and pattern formation: A study of the yellow locus in Drosophila melanogaster

Many of the yellow alleles found in Drosophila melanogaster result in a unique pattern of phenotypic expression. These patterns follow the morphologically distinct cell types of the cuticle, so that for one allele all the bristles of the head and thorax might be mutant, while most of the fly appears wild type. A comparison of many different y mutants demonstrates that the yellow phenotype is expressed independently in most if not all the different cell types which form the cuticle. Control of this expression appears to reside at the yellow locus itself.
Serosal inflammation (pleural and pericardial effusions) related to tyrosine kinase inhibitors

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have dramatically changed the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and are increasingly used in other malignancies. Despite the apparent selectivity of these agents significant side effects can occur mainly due to off target kinase inhibition. Clinical consequences of serosal inflammation, including pleural and pericardial effusions, have emerged as a frequent adverse event associated with dasatinib while occurring much less frequently during imatinib and nilotinib therapy. The pathogenesis is uncertain but may involve inhibition of platelet derived growth factor or expansion of cytotoxic T and natural killer cells. The development of serosal inflammation with dasatinib poses a significant challenge to physicians, as it cannot be predicted, the time of onset is variable, and management frequently requires repeat invasive procedures.
Effect of digoxin on ST-segment changes detected by ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring in healthy subjects

Digoxin causes false-positive ST depression during exercise stress testing, but it is unknown if digoxin produces ST depression during ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring. Fifty healthy volunteers underwent both exercise stress testing and ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring before and after 14 days of digoxin (0.25 mg/day) administration. Significant ST depression was defined as greater than or equal to 1 mm of horizontal or downsloping ST depression 80 ms after the J point lasting for greater than or equal to 60 seconds. During therapy, 13 subjects (26%) had at least 1 episode of ST depression and 5 subjects (10%) had multiple episodes of ST depression detected by ambulatory monitoring. Ten subjects (20%) had ST depression that occurred during exercise that was detected by both stress test and ambulatory monitoring. Three subjects (6%) had ST depression that was detected on the ambulatory recording only at times other than during the stress test. Stratification of demographic and clinical variables did not predict digoxin-induced ST depression. Thus, digoxin causes false-positive ST depression detected by ambulatory monitoring. The incidence is similar to that observed during stress testing, but also occurs at heart rates lower than that achieved during stress tests. Ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring will be less useful in the noninvasive assessment of coronary artery disease in patients receiving digoxin.
A general framework for convexity analysis in deterministic global optimization

In previous work, we, and also Epperly and Pistikopoulos, proposed an analysis of general nonlinear programs that identified certain variables as convex, not ever needing subdivision, and non-convex, or possibly needing subdivision in branch and bound algorithms. We proposed a specific algorithm, based on a generated computational graph of the problem, for identifying such variables. In our previous work, we identified only independent variables in the computational graph. Here, we examine alternative sets of non-convex variables consisting not just of independent variables, but of a possibly smaller number of intermediate variables. We do so with examples and theorems. We also apply variants of our proposed analysis to the well-known COCONUT Lib-1 test set. If the number of such non-convex variables is sufficiently small, it may be possible to fully subdivide them before analysis of ranges of objective and constraints, thus dispensing totally with the branch and bound process. Advantages to such a non-adaptive process include higher predictability and easier parallizability. We present an algorithm and exploratory results here, with a more complete empirical study in a subsequent paper.
Minority Representation in Special Education A Persistent Challenge

Overrepresentation of minority students in special education has been a concern for more than 3 decades. Such overrepresentation has triggered a number of legal challenges, educational reforms, and legislative actions. However, a question still remains in the field: Have there been any recent changes or improvements? We addressed this question by analyzing data published by the federal government. Racial representation along with regional variations and state poverty rates were examined. The results indicated that American Indian/Alaskan Native and African American students were overrepresented in high-incidence disabilities (i.e., emotional and behavioral disorders, learning disabilities, and mental retardation); that significant regional variations existed in minority representation, but that these variations were not correlated with state poverty rates; and that racial representation in certain disability categories was negatively correlated with state poverty rates for certain racial groups.
Impact of Obesity on Ventricular Size and Function in Children, Adolescents and Adults With Tetralogy of Fallot After Initial Repair

Obesity is epidemic in congenital heart disease, with reported rates of 16% to 26% in children and 54% in adults. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of obesity on ventricular function and size in patients after initial repair for tetralogy of Fallot (TOF). Cardiac magnetic resonance studies in normal-weight (body mass index percentile 2 , p = 0.020) and left ventricular end-diastolic volumes indexed to ideal body weight (mean 90 ± 22 vs 75 ± 15 ml/m 2 , p
COMPARING DISTORTION ON SKETCH MAPS AND MDS CONFIGURATIONS

The mental images on which an individual bases spatial decisions are often distorted versions of real-world geography. Distortion in these images is studied by extracting paired distance estimates and by requesting a sketch of a place drawn from memory. Reliance upon either technique to elicit large-scale spatial information assumes that distortion in the congnitive map is not introduced by the technique (sketching or configuration) used to construct it. Both techniques have been used in this study to produce cognitive maps for a common set of landmarks in Seattle. Map distortions are analyzed and compared to determine that significant differences result from the technique used.
Iron and manganese profiles in a coastal pond with an anoxic zone

Abstract The concentrations of iron and manganese in the waters of a coastal pond with an anoxic zone (Oyster Pond, Falmouth, Mass.) have been determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry as a function of depth. The iron and manganese profiles exhibit marked maxima at a depth corresponding to the surface of the anoxic bottom layer. In mid-August the pond was apparently mixed and the maxima were disrupted.
Demonstration of accuracy and clinical versatility of mutual information for automatic multimodality image fusion using affine and thin-plate spline warped geometric deformations.

Abstract This paper applies and evaluates an automatic mutual information-based registration algorithm across a broad spectrum of multimodal volume data sets. The algorithm requires little or no pre-processing, minimal user input and easily implements either affine, i.e. linear or thin-plate spline (TPS) warped registrations. We have evaluated the algorithm in phantom studies as well as in selected cases where few other algorithms could perform as well, if at all, to demonstrate the value of this new method. Pairs of multimodal gray-scale volume data sets were registered by iteratively changing registration parameters to maximize mutual information. Quantitative registration errors were assessed in registrations of a thorax phantom using PET/CT and in the National Library of Medicine's Visible Male using MRI T2-/T1-weighted acquisitions. Registrations of diverse clinical data sets were demonstrated including rotate—translate mapping of PET/MRI brain scans with significant missing data, full affine mapping of thoracic PET/CT and rotate—translate mapping of abdominal SPECT/CT. A five-point thin-plate spline (TPS) warped registration of thoracic PET/CT is also demonstrated. The registration algorithm converged in times ranging between 3.5 and 31 min for affine clinical registrations and 57 min for TPS warping. Mean error vector lengths for rotate—translate registrations were measured to be subvoxel in phantoms. More importantly the rotate—translate algorithm performs well even with missing data. The demonstrated clinical fusions are qualitatively excellent at all levels. We conclude that such automatic, rapid, robust algorithms significantly increase the likelihood that multimodality registrations will be routinely used to aid clinical diagnoses and post-therapeutic assessment in the near future.
Serum total cholesterol concentrations and awareness, treatment, and control of hypercholesterolemia among US adults.

To the Editor: The report by Ford et al1 showed, disappointingly, that the average serum total cholesterol concentration of US adults in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) declined by only 0.4 mmol/L (2 mg/dL) between 1988 to 1994 and 1999 to 2000. Ford et al1 commented that “the epidemic of obesity may have slowed the trend” but did not quantify the degree to which this speculation might be true. Between 1988 to 1994 and 1999 to 2000, the mean weight of adults in NHANES increased 4.1 kg, from 75.9 to 80.0 kg (Dr. Earl Ford, personal communication, May 15, 2003). A pooled estimate from clinical trials indicates that a 1-kg weight loss lowers …
Separable image warping with spatial lookup tables

Image warping refers to the 2-D resampling of a source image onto a target image. In the general case, this requires costly 2-D filtering operations. Simplifications are possible when the warp can be expressed as a cascade of orthogonal 1-D transformations. In these cases, separable transformations have been introduced to realize large performance gains. The central ideas in this area were formulated in the 2-pass algorithm by Catmull and Smith. Although that method applies over an important class of transformations, there are intrinsic problems which limit its usefulness.The goal of this work is to extend the 2-pass approach to handle arbitrary spatial mapping functions. We address the difficulties intrinsic to 2-pass scanline algorithms: bottlenecking, foldovers, and the lack of closed-form inverse solutions. These problems are shown to be resolved in a general, efficient, separable technique, with graceful degradation for transformations of increasing complexity.
Characterization of Corn-Soy Breakfast Cereals by Generalized Procrustes Analyses

ABSTRACT Understanding the quality of products containing a substantial amount of soy protein is essential to meet the demand for soy foods that are acceptable to American consumers. In this study, the effects of sugar and feed moisture contents on the sensory characteristics of extruded corn-soy breakfast cereals were investigated, and the relationships among the product sensory and physical properties and extruder system responses were characterized by generalized procrustes analysis (GPA). Corn meal-soy protein isolate mixes were extruded at feed moistures of 21, 23, and 25% and sugar levels of 0, 5, and 10%. Descriptive sensory attributes, physical properties, and extruder responses were measured. GPA results showed that the breakfast cereal sensory attributes were primarily affected by the sugar-addition level. Products with sugar added at the 5% level were associated with soy and off-flavors, but increasing sugar to 10% yielded an association with crunchiness and hardness. Feed moisture content had ...
Solar EUV and XUV energy input to thermosphere on solar rotation time scales derived from photoelectron observations

[1] Solar radiation below ∼100 nm produces photoelectrons, a substantial portion of the F region ionization, most of the E region ionization, and drives chemical reactions in the thermosphere. Unquantified uncertainties in thermospheric models exist because of uncertainties in solar irradiance models used to fill spectral and temporal gaps in solar irradiance observations. We investigate uncertainties in solar energy input to the thermosphere on solar rotation time scales using photoelectron observations from the FAST satellite. We compare observed and modeled photoelectron energy spectra using two photoelectron production codes driven by five different solar irradiance models. We observe about 1.7% of the ionizing solar irradiance power in the escaping photoelectron flux. Most of the code/model pairs used reproduce the average escaping photoelectron flux over a 109-day interval in late 2006. The code/model pairs we used do not completely reproduce the observed spectral and solar rotation variations in photoelectron power density. For the interval examined, 30% of the variability in photoelectron power density with equivalent wavelengths between 18 and 45 nm was not captured in the code/model pairs. For equivalent wavelengths below ∼16 nm, most of the variability was missed. This result implies that thermospheric model runs based on the solar irradiance models we tested systematically underestimate the energy input from ionizing radiation on solar rotation time scales.
(Un)Worthy: Latina battered immigrants under VAWA and the construction of neoliberal subjects

In the United States recognition as a battered immigrant can lead to legalization and citizenship for abused women when provisions in the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) are applied. To successfully utilize VAWA towards these ends, however, a battered immigrant woman also receives a lesson in cultural restructuring required of citizenship; VAWA establishes the regulations and standards necessary to remake abused immigrants into neoliberal subjects. This essay examines the experiences of undocumented Latina immigrants within the VAWA legal paradigm and explores the ways in which the process artfully crafts the good neoliberal citizen.
Energy sources for first-feeding zoeae of king crab Paralithodes camtschatica (Tilesius) (Decapoda, Lithodidae)

The occurrence of first zoeae of king crab Paralithodes camtschatica (Tilesius) and potential phytoplankton food was monitored during April 1987 in Auke Bay, Alaska. The most abundant phytoplankton were Thalassiosira spp. and Skeletonema costatum (Greville) with fewer Chaetoceros spp. Copepod nauplii were the most abundant Zooplankton. Laboratory experiments were done to see if these potential foods, at concentrations simulating those observed to coexist with the larvae, could provide first-feeding king crab zoeae with a positive energy balance. The percentage of zoeae I molting to stage II when grazing on pure cultures of T. nordenskioldii Cleve (4000 cells · ml−1), C. debilis Cleve (2400 cells · ml−1) and S. costatum ( 16 000 cells · ml−1 ) were 96, 5 and 27 %, respectively. Thalassiosira spp. concentrations in the chlorophyll maximum were up to 10 times higher than necessary for 100% of the larvae to molt successfully to stage II. S. costatum was abundant enough in the chlorophyll maximum layer to provide supplemental energy for the zoeae. Chaetoceros spp. were not abundant enough to allow the zoeae to molt if that genus was the sole source of energy. While the percentage of zoeae molting to stage II showed some relationship to cell concentration or algal taxon, these factors had no effect on development time, even at concentrations less than optimal. The first zoeae were not efficient at capturing copepod nauplii or barnacle nauplii when they existed at abundance levels observed in the bay. The results indicated that some diatom taxa are an important energy source for first-feeding king crab larvae and that hatching concurrently with the spring phytoplankton bloom may be an important factor affecting their survival. Factors which modify phytoplankton species succession and formation of a strong chlorophyll maximum layer during the planktonic phase of larval king crab may also be important in determining survival of first feeding larvae.
Impact of beta-blockade premedication on image quality of ECG-gated thoracic aorta CT angiography.

BackgroundThoracic aortic aneurysm is one of the most common aorta pathologies worldwide, which is commonly evaluated by computed tomography angiography (CTA). One of the routine methods to improve the image quality of CTA is heart rate reduction prior to study by beta-blockade administration.PurposeTo assess the effect of beta-blockade on image quality of the ascending aorta in electrocardiography (ECG)-gated dual-source CTA (DSCTA) images.Material and MethodsIn this retrospective study, ECG-gated thoracic aorta CTA images of 40 patients without beta-blocker administration were compared with ECG-gated images of 40 patients with beta-blockade. Images of the aorta were analyzed objectively and subjectively at three levels: sinus of Valsalva (sinus), sinotubular junction (STJ), and mid ascending aorta (MAA). Quantitative sharpness index (SI) and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) were calculated and two radiologists evaluated the image quality using a 3-point scale.ResultsMean heart rate in beta-blocker and non-be...
Big data: techniques and technologies in geoinformatics

Currently, big data is a hot and rather mysterious term in both professional business groups and academic science communities. This book provides a good overview of examples about valuable applicat...
Albumin, steroid hormones and the origin of vertebrates

Albumin, the major serum protein, binds a wide variety of lipophilic compounds including steroids, other lipophilic hormones and various phytochemicals and xenobiotics that bind to receptors for steroids and other lipophilic hormones. Despite albumin's low affinity (K(d) approximately 10(-4) M to 10(-6) M) for these lipophilic compounds, the high concentration of albumin in serum makes this protein a major carrier of steroids and lipophilic hormones and a regulator of their access to receptors. Albumin also functions as a sink for xenobiotics, diminishing the binding of xenobiotics to hormone receptors and other cellular proteins. This protects animals from endocrine disruption by xenobiotics. We propose that these properties of albumin were important in protochordates and primitive vertebrates, such as jawless fish, about 600 to 530 million years ago, just before and during the Cambrian period. It is at that time that the ancestral receptors of adrenal and sex steroids - androgens, estrogens, glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, and progestins - arose in multicellular animals. Albumin regulated access of steroids to their receptors, as well as protecting animals from endocrine disruptors, such as phytochemicals, fungal chemicals and phenolics, and other chemicals formed at hydrothermal vents by geochemical processes. Thus, animals in which albumin expression was high had a selective advantage in regulating the steroid response and avoiding endocrine disruption by xenobiotics.
Control of transformed focus morphology in chicken cell cultures infected with Rous sarcoma virus.

Summary Factors that control focus morphology in cell cultures infected with Bryan strain Rous sarcoma virus (B-RSV) were examined. Cloning experiments with the roundc-cell (morphr) and fusiform cell (morphf) variants of RSV (Temin, 1960), confirmed that the two mutant viruses breed true and that these two distinct focus types were under the control of the virus genome. Three subvariants of the morphr focus type were described which failed to breed true in cloning experiments. It was concluded that this type of focus variation was not due to virus mutation. Variation in focus morphology was observed when RSV was plated on chick embryo fibroblast cell lines from different sources, as reflected in the relative frequency of expression of the three morphr focus types. These variations were exhibited between fibroblast cell lines of different genetic background, indicating that the cell genome had an influence on focus expression. Focus expression also varied in fibroblast cell lines from chickens of different ages. The strongest host influence on focus expression was observed with fibroblast cell lines derived from selected individual tissue of single embryos. The latter two factors (age and tissue origin) suggested that the differentiated state of the cells also influences RSV focus morphology.