cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Red: an intelligent, rapid, accurate tool for detecting repeats de-novo on the genomic scale.

With rapid advancements in technology, the sequences of thousands of species’ genomes are becoming available. Within the sequences are repeats that comprise significant portions of genomes. Successful annotations thus require accurate discovery of repeats. As species-specific elements, repeats in newly sequenced genomes are likely to be unknown. Therefore, annotating newly sequenced genomes requires tools to discover repeats de-novo. However, the currently available de-novo tools have limitations concerning the size of the input sequence, ease of use, sensitivities to major types of repeats, consistency of performance, speed, and false positive rate. To address these limitations, I designed and developed Red, applying Machine Learning. Red is the first repeat-detection tool capable of labeling its training data and training itself automatically on an entire genome. Red is easy to install and use. It is sensitive to both transposons and simple repeats; in contrast, available tools such as RepeatScout and ReCon are sensitive to transposons, and WindowMasker to simple repeats. Red performed consistently well on seven genomes; the other tools performed well only on some genomes. Red is much faster than RepeatScout and ReCon and has a much lower false positive rate than WindowMasker. On human genes with five or more copies, Red was more specific than RepeatScout by a wide margin. When tested on genomes of unusual nucleotide compositions, Red located repeats with high sensitivities and maintained moderate false positive rates. Red outperformed the related tools on a bacterial genome. Red identified 46,405 novel repetitive segments in the human genome. Finally, Red is capable of processing assembled and unassembled genomes. Red’s innovative methodology and its excellent performance on seven different genomes represent a valuable advancement in the field of repeats discovery.
Fitness of the internal environment body fluids are potent buffers of concentrative properties such as osmotic pressure as well as pH

Abstract Chemical reactions in aqueous solutions sometimes yield products whose total concentrative property values differ from those of the reactants. The actual span of these differences compared with the theoretical span for a completed reaction reflects the degree of reaction progress and may be measured in terms of several of such properties as osmotic pressure, refractive index, specific gravity, electrical conductivity and viscosity. Owing to the non-additive nature of the concentrative properties in certain chemical reactions it is observed that in the face of “challenge” by acids, bases and some salts, a variety of solutions, including body fluids, manifest the power to buffer the concentrative properties. Buffering systems of this sort can be described quantitatively by means of “β coefficients” and buffer capacities, and they are frequently found to be more effective stabilizers than systems for pH, in vivo and in vitro. It is suggested that concentrative property buffering is a relatively ubiquitous characteristic among body fluids and certain other aqueous solutions, constituting an inertial or elastic component of body fluids which facilitates homeostasis and adds to the physiologic fitness of the internal environment.
Impact Evaluation of Servsafe Participants

Abstract With an increase of food prepared away from home, safe food handling practices of food handlers is a top priority. A survey was developed with 12 food safety knowledge questions and 12 food safety/food handling practice questions. Demographic information was obtained. A random sample of 10% of licensed operators (n=569) and 25% of ServSafe participants in Nebraska (n=576) were selected for the survey. The Dillman mail survey method was used to obtain responses. A 41% response rate was obtained from ServSafe participants and a 30% response rate was obtained from the random sample. An increase (p=0.05) in food safety knowledge was found for ServSafe trained managers. For a question on Staphylococcus aureus, 49% of the random sample knew the correct answer compared with 83% of those receiving the ServSafe training. Only 43% of the random sample knew the temperature danger zone compared to 76% of the ServSafe trained managers. Survey participants were asked to list the temperature that they held hot foods during serving. For the random sample, temperatures ranged from 120-350°F with an average of 154.8°F±29.2. The ServSafe participants listed temperatures from 130-190°F with an average of 146.3°F±10.9. Practices that ServSafe participants stated that they made after attending a workshop were: implemented/monitored temperatures, changed cooling techniques, changed sanitation procedures, changed food storage practices, implemented proper handwashing procedures, and changed thawing practices. On average, each ServSafe manager trained 15 people in their establishment after attending a workshop. Results indicate that ServSafe participants increased their food safety knowledge and made safe handling practice changes that would reduce the risk of food borne illness.
A Monte Carlo comparison of the binary and interpolation search algorithms

This paper provides performance comparisons of the traditional binary search and the interpolation search for nearly uniformly distributed ordered arrays of keys. The algorithms for the search routines are given along with performance statistics.
Amorphous polyolefins: A relationship between molecular structure, submolecular motion, and mechanical behavior

Abstract : The thermomechanical spectra of two series of amorphous polyolefins represented by ((CH2)m-C(CH3)2)n and ((CH2)m-C(CH3)(C2H5))n where m = 1, 2, and 3, are presented from -180C to a point above the glass transition temperature. The polymers were obtained by cationic polymerization of alpha-olefins. The mechanical spectra show a maximum in glass transition temperature and secondary transition temperature for the second member of each series. This maximum is interpreted in terms of a proposed intermolecular interlocking considered to be at a maximum for the second member of the series, and serving to restrict the submolecular motions associated with the transitions. The proposal is discussed in terms of its consequences upon free volume, density, cohesive energy density, and chain flexibility. (Author)
Computer and web-enabled simulations for anesthesiology training and credentialing

Although mannequin patient simulator-based training and credentialing has received extensive favorable attention during the last decade, some critics have argued that the expense and the logistics of participating in such exercises may limit the recommendation of widespread mandatory use of this technology. The ubiquitous availability of personal computers and the World Wide Web makes computer and web-enabled simulation an alternative technology that may address some of these criticisms. In this article, the history, technology, application, and future use of computer and web-enabled simulation for anesthesiology training and credentialing is discussed.
Microwave leakage during patient treatment

In light of the BRH proposed draft standard for microwave leakage of 10 mW/cm2, microwave leakage measurements were taken under two conditions. The first used a microwave tissue equivalent phantom in which leakage cata was accumulated as a function of net forward power and aperture-to-skin distance (SSD). This is similar to the BRH setup. In the second condition, during actual microwave hyperthermia treatments data was accumulated on several patients at different anatomical sites. The results of these experiments show a marked increase of microwave leakage occurring during patient treatment than that which can be predicted from static phantom results.
High power self-similar radiation pulse in a free electron laser

Abstract Using 1D short wavelength (8 μm) Compton free electron laser (FEL) equations with slippage, we explore propagation of a high power pulse down a tapered undulator FEL travelling wave amplifier. For an appropriate taper, a short pulse (∼300 fs FWHM) with regular features will propagate self-similarly as it grows in power, slipping through a much longer electron pulse. The power spectrum of the pulse is nearly Gaussian with no sidebands. The electron energy is depressed by ∼33%, but slippage causes the peak pulse intensity to be about the same as the electron beam power density, ∼10 TW/cm 2 .
Palladium Complexes of a P2C Ligand Containing a Central Carbene Moiety

Palladium(II) complexes of the PCHP pincer ligand were prepared from PdCl2, a “proto-pincer” P2CH2, and base. The resulting (PCHP)PdCl was converted to (PCHP)PdOTf. (PCHP)PdCl did not react with NaN(SiMe3)2 but produced (PCHP)PdR (R = Me, Et, Ph) upon reaction with the corresponding organolithium, Grignard, or organozinc reagent. Trityl cation abstracted a hydride from (PCHP)PdCl to yield cationic Pd carbene complex (P2C)PdCl. Analysis of the structural data points to minimal π-interaction between the carbene center and palladium.
Institutional ownership and firm performance: The case of bidder returns

Abstract We employ corporate takeover decisions to investigate the impact of institutional ownership on corporate performance. The OLS regressions of bidder gains on institutional ownership indicate a positive relation between the two. However, we find institutional ownership to be significantly determined by firm size, insider ownership and the firm's presence in the S&P 500 index. Thus, when bidder gains are regressed on the predicted values of institutional ownership in two-stage regressions, the recursive estimates do not confirm the relationship shown by the OLS regressions. Furthermore, we do not find any evidence that active institutional investors (e.g., CalPERS) as a group enhance efficiency in the market for corporate control. These findings cast doubt on the superior selection/monitoring abilities of institutional investors.
A preparation of enamines

Enamine (III) entstehen aus den N-Silyl-aminen (I) und den Oxo-Verbindungen (II) in hohen Ausbeuten.
Do some authoritarian governments foster physical quality of life

A recent claim that the populations of “populist authoritarian” governments have relatively high physical quality of life is tested empirically and found to be true. Analysis of life expectancy in 103 countries shows that although political rights contribute to the prediction of life expectancy, net of GNP per capita, one category of authoritarian governments, here called the “constrained authoritarians,” has higher than expected physical quality of life. Of interest is the additional finding that location in sub-Saharan Africa has a strong negative impact on life expectancy, net of GNP and political rights.
Hyper oxygen-permeable rigid contact lenses as an alternative for the treatment of pediatric aphakia.

Purpose.To establish the safety and efficacy of a hyper oxygen-permeable rigid contact lens material, Menicon Z, for the fitting of aphakic infant eyes.Methods.A prospective study was performed on 16 eyes of 10 newly aphakic infants. Aphakic fittings were performed postoperatively with the Dyna Z in
Design and methods for evaluating an early childhood obesity prevention program in the childcare center setting

Many unhealthy dietary and physical activity habits that foster the development of obesity are established by the age of five. Presently, approximately 70 percent of children in the United States are currently enrolled in early childcare facilities, making this an ideal setting to implement and evaluate childhood obesity prevention efforts. We describe here the methods for conducting an obesity prevention randomized trial in the child care setting. A randomized, controlled obesity prevention trial is currently being conducted over a three year period (2010-present). The sample consists of 28 low-income, ethnically diverse child care centers with 1105 children (sample is 60% Hispanic, 15% Haitian, 12% Black, 2% non-Hispanic White and 71% of caregivers were born outside of the US). The purpose is to test the efficacy of a parent and teacher role-modeling intervention on children’s nutrition and physical activity behaviors. . The Healthy Caregivers-Healthy Children (HC2) intervention arm schools received a combination of (1) implementing a daily curricula for teachers/parents (the nutritional gatekeepers); (2) implementing a daily curricula for children; (3) technical assistance with meal and snack menu modifications such as including more fresh and less canned produce; and (4) creation of a center policy for dietary requirements for meals and snacks, physical activity and screen time. Control arm schools received an attention control safety curriculum. Major outcome measures include pre-post changes in child body mass index percentile and z score, fruit and vegetable and other nutritious food intake, amount of physical activity, and parental nutrition and physical activity knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs, defined by intentions and behaviors. All measures were administered at the beginning and end of the school year for year one and year two of the study for a total of 4 longitudinal time points for assessment. Although few attempts have been made to prevent obesity during the first years of life, this period may represent the best opportunity for obesity prevention. Findings from this investigation will inform both the fields of childhood obesity prevention and early childhood research about the effects of an obesity prevention program housed in the childcare setting. Trial registration number: NCT01722032
White Residential Segregation in U.S. Metropolitan Areas: Conceptual Issues, Patterns, and Trends from the U.S. Census, 1980 to 2010

Racial and ethnic diversity continues to spread to communities across the United States. Rather than focus on the residential patterns of specific minority or immigrant groups, this study examines changing patterns of White residential segregation in metropolitan America. Using data from the 1980 to 2010 decennial censuses, we calculate levels of White segregation using two common measures, analyze the effect of defining the White population in different ways, and, drawing upon the group threat theoretical perspective, we examine the metropolitan correlates of White segregation. We find that White segregation from others declined significantly from 1980 to 2010, regardless of the measure of segregation or the White population used. However, we find some evidence consistent with the group threat perspective, as White dissimilarity is higher in metro areas that are more diverse, and especially those with larger Black populations. Nevertheless, our findings indicate that Whites having been living in increasingly integrated neighborhoods over the last few decades, suggesting some easing of the historical color line.
Synthesis and spectroscopic characterization of red-shifted spironaphthoxazine based optical switch probes.

Spironaphthoxazine (NISO) is an efficient optical switch probe that has applications in high contrast detection of Forster resonance energy transfer (FRET) using optical lock-in detection (OLID). NISO exists in two distinct states, spiro (SP) and merocyanine (MC), that can be independently controlled by using alternate irradiation with near ultraviolet and visible light. Unfortunately, the SP-state of NISO has an absorption centered at 350 nm, which may lead to phototoxic effects when manipulating the probe within a living cell. To overcome this problem we introduce new, red-shifted amino-substituted NISO probes compared to NISO that undergo an efficient SP to MC transition in response to irradiation by using 405-nm light, which is less damaging to living cells. This study details the synthesis of amino-substituted NISO and their N-hydroxysuccinimide ester and maleimide derivatives and their use in generating covalent attached protein conjugates. This study also presents a characterization of the spectroscopic and optical switching properties of these red-shifted NISO probe in solution.
A qualitative analysis of groundhook tuned vibration absorbers for controlling structural vibrations

AbstractThe primary purpose of this study is to investigate the dynamic characteristics of semi-active groundhook tuned vibration absorbers (TVAs), using closed-form equivalent models of such systems. Closed-form, equivalent models of groundhook TVAs are developed and compared analytically with those for passive TVAs. Additionally, closed-form solutions of groundhook equivalent TVA models are obtained and are used for a parametric study to evaluate the dynamic characteristics of such systems as various parameters change. The numerical results are compared with passive TVAs which have been studied extensively in the past. The results indicate tat groundhook TVAs, with off-state damping levels within a critical value, are capable of lowering the magnitude of resonant peaks without increasing vibration. In contrast, increasing damping in passive TVAs results in a reduction in the amplitude of resonant peaks, at the expense of increased vibrations at the tuned frequency. The results further indicate that incr...
3D profilometry: next requests from the industrial viewpoint

Optical 3D Profile measurements have seen an increasing use in industry from electronics packaging to turbine engine airfoils. This paper will review a number of industrial applications of optical 3D profilometry, what has been achieved, and where new opportunities may be arising. Based upon the current applications, we will identify some of the key barriers to successful implementation, and what is needed to address these barriers from an industrial perspective. Finally, this paper will suggest some possible development areas that may greatly expand the application and acceptance of 3D profilometry.
Effects of Linking Methods on Detection of DIF

Studies of differential item functioning under item response theory require that item parameter estimates be placed on the same metric before comparisons can be made. The present study compared the effects of three methods for linking metrics: a weighted mean and sigma method (WMS); the test characteristic curve method (TCC); and the minimum chi-square method (MCS), on detection of differential item functioning. Both iterative and noniterative linking procedures were compared for each method. Results indicated that detection of differentially functioning items following linking via the test characteristic curve method gave the most accurate results when the sample size was small. When the sample size was large, results for the three linking methods were essentially the same. Iterative linking provided an improvement in detection of differentially functioning items over noniterative linking particularly with the .05 alpha level. The weighted mean and sigma method showed greater improvement with iterative linking than either the test characteristic curve or minimum chi-square method.
Variability and inflation: Evidence from developed and developing countries

Variations of a reduced-form equation for inflation determination are specified with ARCH processes for 34 countries. Results of testing for and estimation of the ARCH specifications show significant results in nearly half, but in five of those, tests suggest the presence of an AR(4) process which may invalidate the test for ARCH. Use of predicted conditional standard deviations of inflation, rather than the unconditional measure used previously, shows no evidence of a correlation of variability and inflation.
SHAREHOLDER RETURNS FOR INTERNATIONALMERGERS IN THE U.S.

The number of mergers in the U.S.A. increased from 2,339 in 1983 to 3,701 in 1987—an increase of 58.23 per cent. Over the same time period the value of mergers increased from $51.89 billion to $167.48 billion—an increase of 323 per cent. Merger activities of this magnitude can be expected to attract a great deal of attention, and they have.
Segmentation of intravascular ultrasound images: a machine learning approach mimicking human vision

Abstract This paper describes an approach for fully automated segmentation of intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) images that mimics the procedure performed by human experts. The approach requires no manual initialization or interaction, and is integrated into our previously developed system for reconstruction of coronary arteries by data fusion of IVUS and X-ray angiography. The fusion system is used in an ongoing clinical study assessing the relationships among vessel curvature, plaque thickness, and hemodynamic shear stress. The improved automatic segmentation of IVUS images has resulted in a substantial decrease in the time needed for analysis, thus allowing for an increase in the size and scope of the clinical study. Preliminary results from 10 in vivo cases are presented.
Real-time flood forecasting coupling different postprocessing techniques of precipitation forecast ensembles with a distributed hydrological model. The case study of may 2008 flood in western Piemonte, Italy

Abstract. In this work, we compare the performance of an hydrological model when driven by probabilistic rain forecast derived from two different post-processing techniques. The region of interest is Piemonte, northwestern Italy, a complex orography area close to the Mediterranean Sea where the forecast are often a challenge for weather models. The May 2008 flood is here used as a case study, and the very dense weather station network allows us for a very good description of the event and initialization of the hydrological model. The ensemble probabilistic forecasts of the rainfall fields are obtained with the Bayesian model averaging, with the classical poor man ensemble approach and with a new technique, the Multimodel SuperEnsemble Dressing. In this case study, the meteo-hydrological chain initialized with the Multimodel SuperEnsemble Dressing is able to provide more valuable discharge ranges with respect to the one initialized with Bayesian model averaging multi-model.
The Rationale of Scheffé's Method and the Simultaneous Test Procedure

A simple rationale for Scheffe's Method and Gabriel's Simultaneous Test Procedure is presented. Examples of both methods are provided.
The Effects of Identity-Relevance and Task Difficulty on Task Motivation, Stress, and Performance

Tested the hypothesis that the identity-relevance of a performance domain would predict task motivation, stress, and actual performance. Psychology majors and non-majors (N = 94) completed either moderately difficult or very difficulty questions from a standardized verbal aptitude test. Before the test participants were told that performance on the test was either predictive of success as a psychologist (identity-relevant condition) or were given no information on the predictive ability of the test (control condition). Results revealed that only psychology majors evidenced higher motivation and stress in the identity-relevant condition in comparison to the control condition. The results of actual test performance revealed that when identity-relevance was high, psychology majors tended to do better than non-majors on a task of moderate difficulty, but tended to do worse on a task of high difficulty. Implications of the results for identity-relevance as a motivational and emotional lynchpin for performance are discussed.
Parasitism of the glassy-winged sharpshooter, Homalodisca coagulata (Homoptera: Cicadellidae): Functional response and superparasitism by Gonatocerus ashmeadi (Hymenoptera: Mymaridae)

Abstract The functional response by the egg parasitoid, Gonatocerus ashmeadi, and superparasitism of Homalodisca coagulata eggs were found to be related to host age and density when studied under laboratory conditions. Several aspects relating to parasitism of 1-, 3-, 5-, 7-, 9-day-old H. coagulata eggs were measured under varied densities ranging from 1:1 to 1:60 parasitoid to host ratios. The functional response for the parasitoid to host eggs of all age groups closely fit the Type II model that describes responses to changing densities. The instantaneous attack rate and handling time of the parasitoid were similar for H. coagulata eggs of various ages. The number of host eggs parasitized varies significantly with host density and age, but not when analyzed by a host age × density interaction. However, host age and density, as well as the host age × density interaction, contribute significantly to the differences found in length of the development time of G. ashmeadi within host eggs. This parasitoid showed a significantly greater tendency toward superparasitism at parasitoid-to-host ratios ⩽10:100. The maximum number of parasitoid eggs found in a single host egg was 18. The frequencies of superparasitism for G. ashmeadi display a random distribution over all observed host densities. Our results also suggest G. ashmeadi eliminates the supernumerary parasitoids through physiological suppression.
La Música en Nueva Nursia

Abstract If the publication of any monograph concerned with the history of Australian music is a significant event, then one published in a foreign language, Spanish in this instance, is even more so. But when the book concerned is a translation of an unpublished manuscript written in English by a Spanish-born Australian musician we are forced again to confront certain familiar questions about Australian commitment to our own musical history and its documentation.
Kinetics of T lymphocyte apoptosis and the cellular immune response in SIVmac239-infected rhesus macaques

Background Although increased apoptosis is a central feature of AIDS, little is known about its kinetics or relationship to the early host response in acute HIV/SIV infection. Methods Ex vivo apoptosis in freshly isolated peripheral blood and lymph node lymphocytes was monitored longitudinally in SIVmac239-infected rhesus macaques by flow-cytometric detection of active caspase-3, cleaved poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase, and fragmented DNA. Results Increased apoptosis of multiple lymphocyte subsets was observed in the first 2 weeks following SIV infection. Apoptosis of CD4+ T lymphocytes was of low magnitude but peaked earlier than other T lymphocyte subsets. A 10- to 36-fold increase in CD8+ T lymphocyte apoptosis coincided temporally with onset of the SIV-specific cellular immune response and enrichment of caspase-3-positive cells within recently proliferating, activated CD8+ T lymphocytes. Conclusions The virus-specific T lymphocyte response to primary infection and generalized non-specific immune activation contribute to the pathogenesis of apoptosis in acute SIV infection.
Solid waste policy should be directed by fundamental principles, not ill-founded feelings

Abstract This paper first reviews underlying misconceptions about landfill and incinerator safety that lead to public rejection of these solid waste management methods. It then briefly analyzes the widespread application of recycling programs as a more politically attractive approach to dealing with the garbage crisis. Next, state and local solid waste initiatives designed to support recycling are examined. Proposed changes to the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act are summarized and critiqued, next. The final section suggests using two basic principles to determine appropriate roles for the varying levels of government. These two fundamental principles are economic and political in nature. To meet the basic objective of solid waste management - to protect public health and welfare while effectively dealing with the volumes of solid waste generated — requires that management methods be cost-effective. Secondly, to allow for geographic and demographic differences around the nation, decision-making should occur at the lowest level of government possible. Applying these principles would reduce the widening web of solid waste regulation and produce public policy that addresses the real issues rather than ill-founded public fears.
SAPHIRE—an information retrieval system featuring concept matching, automatic indexing, probabilistic retrieval, and hierarchical relationships

SAPHIRE (Semantic and Probabilistic Heuristic Information Retrieval Environment) is an experimental computer program designed to test new techniques in automated information retrieval in the biomedical domain. A main feature of the program is a concept-finding algorithm that processes free text to find canonical concepts. The algorithm is designed to handle a wide variety of synonyms and convert them to canonical form. This allows natural language to be used for query input and also serves as the basis for a new approach to automatic indexing based on a combination of probabilistic and linguistic methods.
Risk factors associated with transmission of Toxoplasma gondii to sows kept in different management systems in Tennessee

Abstract Of 3841 serum samples from sows received from the Tennessee State Diagnostic Laboratory in 1991–1992, 1130 were positive for Toxoplasma gondii antibody. The total number of farms sampled was 343. The observed seroprevalence was 36% for both years. A questionnaire that dealt with herd management practices was mailed to 303 of the swine farms that were sampled; 107 (35%) responses were returned and analyzed. There was no significant difference in the seroprevalence of T. gondii in the sows on the farms of respondents and non-respondents. From the analysis of the questionnaire, sows associated with cats were 2.6 times more likely to be seropositive for T. gondii than sows that were not associated with cats. Sows kept outdoors at any time were 23 times more likely to be seropositive than sows that were kept indoors. Sows on small farms ( > 29 sows) were 4.5 times more likely to be seropositive than sows on large farms ( > 29 sows).
Health-related quality of life in patients who develop bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome following allo-SCT

Bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS) remains an important complication following allo-SCT. The development of this condition portends a higher morbidity and mortality but the effect on heath-related quality of life (HRQL) is unknown. The aim of this study was to determine whether the development of BOS impacted HRQL compared with patients without BOS. This Institutional Review Board-approved prospective study analyzed 126 patients who underwent allo-SCT at our institution. Patients were administered three HRQL survey tools (SF-36, European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer QLQ-c30 and St George Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ)) before transplant and then again at 6 months, 1 year and 2 years after transplant. Patients were analyzed in three groups determined by highest chronic GVHD (cGVHD) severity and BOS status. Overall, our study group had improving HRQL after transplant when measured over time, measured by the SF-36 with stable HRQL, when measured by the SGRQ total score and QLQ-c30. Patients that developed BOS had significantly worse HRQL scores measured by the SGRQ and the SF-36 physical composite score. This difference was not explained by the severity of cGVHD that patients with BOS developed.
Sleep in children with cancer.

Purpose of reviewAdvances in cancer treatment have improved the 5-year survival rate for childhood cancers to over 78%, resulting in a large population of pediatric cancer survivors. There is increasing recognition that sleep intersects with cancer through the circadian control of the cell cycle and
Microarray analysis of gene expression during early stages of mild and severe cardiac hypertrophy

Familial hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (FHC) is a disease characterized by ventricular hypertrophy, fibrosis, and aberrant systolic and/or diastolic function. We previously developed two transgenic m...
Formation and stability of V - and V Al centers in MgO

${V}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ and ${V}_{\mathrm{Al}}$ centers in MgO have been shown to possess identical electronic $g$ values at low temperatures and this paper reports on the distinction between the two centers. Although these two centers have almost identical EPR spectra, their electron-nuclear-double-resonance (ENDOR) spectra are clearly different. Optical-absorption measurements, supported by ENDOR and EPR, were used to study the formation and annihilation of these two centers. Trapped-hole centers have also been observed which are charge compensated by silicon and off-axis aluminum. The ${V}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ center cannot be produced in all MgO single crystals, and we attribute this to impurity dependence. The high cross section for ${V}^{\ensuremath{-}}$-center production by electron irradiation, \ensuremath{\sim} ${10}^{2}$-${10}^{3}$ b (as compared to only a few barns for its antimorph, the negative-ion vacancy) indicates that the predominant formation mechanism is that of ionization rather than a knock-on process. This assertion is confirmed by the relative ease with which ${V}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ centers are formed by low-energy x rays. Irradiations with photons possessing energies of 1.25 MeV down to a few keV reveal a lack of energy dependence for ${V}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ center production.
The Need for Physician Education in Health Care Costs to Enhance Efficiencies in Care Delivery

The article by Rock et al1 in this issue of Pediatrics highlights an important issue surrounding the challenge of high health care costs in the United States: the lack of knowledge by physicians of cost of care. Their research provides 3 key messages that can inform future health care policies. First, physicians generally have limited knowledge regarding health care finances. As noted by Rock et al in their research, this “knowledge does not improve with experience: attendings’ estimates were, on average, accurate only 4% more frequently than those of residents.” Second, there is very limited transparency in costs of health care.2 Even when charge information is available, this information may not easily be converted into costs because the charge-to-cost … Address correspondence to Ramesh Sachdeva, MD, PhD, DBA, FAAP, FCCM, American Academy of Pediatrics, 141 Northwest Point Blvd, Elk Grove Village, IL 60007. E-mail: rsachdeva{at}aap.org
Rating reliability and representation validity in scenic landscape assessments

The US Supreme Court recently determined that experts from all fields of knowledge must demonstrate the reliability and validity of their testimony. While the broader implications of their finding have yet to manifest itself, it clearly has the potential to challenge all manner of professional practices. This paper explores the reliability of visual quality ratings of landscapes, and the validity of photographic representations used when making these ratings. A review of the literature finds that relatively few studies report reliability or validity coefficients. Those including such reports give reason for some concern. Data from several studies are re-analyzed to demonstrate how professionals should evaluate the reliability and validity of their visual landscape assessments.
Enhancement and quality control of GOES images

The new generation of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites (GOES) have an imager instrument with five multispectral bands of high spatial resolution,and very high dynamic range radiance measurements with 10-bit precision. A wide variety of environmental processes can be observed at unprecedented time scales using the new imager instrument. Quality assurance and feedback to the GOES project office is performed using rapid animation at high magnification, examining differences between successive frames, and applying radiometric and geometric correction algorithms. Missing or corrupted scanline data occur unpredictably due to noise in the ground based receiving system. Smooth high resolution noise-free animations can be recovered using automatic techniques even from scanline scratches affecting more than 25 percent of the dataset. Radiometric correction using the local solar zenith angle was applied to the visible channel to compensate for time- of-day illumination variations to produce gain-compensated movies that appear well-lit from dawn to dusk and extend the interval of useful image observations by more than two hours. A time series of brightness histograms displays some subtle quality control problems in the GOES channels related to rebinning of the radiance measurements. The human visual system is sensitive to only about half of the measured 10- bit dynamic range in intensity variations, at a given point in a monochrome image. In order to effectively use the additional bits of precision and handle the high data rate, new enhancement techniques and visualization tools were developed. We have implemented interactive image enhancement techniques to selectively emphasize different subranges of the 10-bits of intensity levels. Improving navigational accuracy using registration techniques and geometric correction of scanline interleaving errors is a more difficult problem that is currently being investigated.
Metastable Fluid Flow Described via a Discrete-Velocity Coagulation-Fragmentation Model

A discrete-velocity Boltzmann model is introduced. It is based on two principles: (i) clusters of particles move in R{sup 3} with seven fixed momenta; (ii) clusters may gain or lose particles according to the rules of Becker-Doering cluster equations. The model provides a kinetic representation and condensation. The model is used to obtain macroscopic fluid equations which are valid into the metastable fluid regime, 0 {le} {rho} < {rho}s + O(mu{sup {sigma}}), where {sigma} is any positive number, {mu} is the inelastic Knudsen number, and {rho}s is the saturation density.
Three-dimensional simulation of turbulent forced convection in a duct with backward-facing step

Abstract Results from three-dimensional (3-D) simulations of turbulent forced convection adjacent to backward-facing step in a rectangular duct using a k - ϵ - ζ - f turbulence model are reported. This turbulence model is numerically robust near the wall, and it has been shown to predict turbulent heat transfer in separated and wall-bounded flows better than commonly used two-equation turbulence models. FLUENT-CFD code is used as the platform for these simulations and User Defined Functions (UDF) are developed for incorporating this turbulence model into the code. The UDF implementation is validated by simulating several 2-D separated flow/heat transfer benchmark problems. The resulting excellent agreements between the simulated results and benchmark data for these 2-D problems justify the use of this resource for simulating 3-D convection problems. Three-dimensional backward-facing step geometry with an expansion ratio of 1.48 and with a step height of 4.8 mm is used in this study. Three aspect ratios of 3, 8 and infinity (2-D simulation) are considered for studying its effect on the flow and heat transfer, and similarly the effect of the Reynolds number was examined by varying its magnitude in the range of 20,000–50,000. Simulated results are presented for the general 3-D flow features, the reattachment lines, temperature and Nusselt number distributions that develop in this geometry.
Achievement loss associated with the transition to middle school and high school

Abstract To explore the nature of the achievement loss associated with school-to-school transitions from elementary school to middle school and to high school, the author compared 3 groups of 16 school districts in this ex post facto study. A statistically significant achievement loss associated with the transition from elementary school to middle school at 6th grade was found, as compared with K–8 schools that did not have a school-to-school transition at 6th grade. The transition loss in achievement was larger when students from multiple elementary schools were merged into a single middle school during the transition. The students from the middle schools and K–8 elementary schools experienced an achievement loss in the transition to high school at 9th grade. The achievement loss in the transition to high school was larger for middle school students than for K–8 elementary students. High school dropout rates were higher for districts with Grade 6–8 middle schools than for districts with K–8 elementary sc...
Review of Tubes, Sheets and Singularities in Fluid Dynamics: Proceedings of the NATO ARW edited by K. Bajer, and H. K. Moffatt

During the fall of 2001, 59 participants from 12 countries met in Zakopane, Poland, to discuss the fluid dynamics of vortex tubes and sheets, often considered to be the basic building blocks of fluid flow at high Reynolds numbers, whether laminar or turbulent in nature. Their structure, stability, and evolution affect many important physical processes such as magnetic flux tubes in magnetohydrodynamics and the development and maintenance of turbulent shear flows. These coherent structures occur at scales rang-
Ultrastructural study of motor endings on long chain intrafusal fibers in muscle spindles of the cat

Five complete poles of long nuclear chain intrafusal fibers of cat tenuissimus muscle spindles embedded in a plastic medium were cut in serial, 1 micron thick transverse sections and stained with toluidine blue. Each fiber pole displayed one plate-type motor ending positioned outside the encapsulated part of the spindle. Ultrastructurally, the endings resembled extrafusal end-plates and were more complex, in terms of prominence of sole-plate and degree of post-junctional folding, than any other motor ending present in the spindles. They were identified as the terminals of static (fast) skeletofusimotor axons, which preferentially innervate the longest nuclear chain fibers of cat spindles.
The photolysis of NO2 at 193 nm

Abstract Infrared kinetic spectroscopy has been used to investigate the photo-dissociation of NO 2 at 193 nm. The O( 1 D)/(O( 1 D)+O( 3 P)) branching ratio was measured as 0.55±0.03 by adding a large excess of H 2 to the system, and comparing the amount of NO 2 removed during the photolysis to the amount of OH formed by the subsequent fast reaction between O( 1 D) and H 2 . The rate constant for the reaction between O( 1 D) and NO 2 was measured as (1.5±0.3)×10 −10 cm −3 s −1 , and the 193 nm absorption cross-section for NO 2 was estimated as (2.9±1.2)×10 −19 cm 2 .
The Comprehensive Emergent Literacy Model: Early Literacy in Context

The early skills of Emergent Literacy include the knowledge and abilities related to the alphabet, phonological awareness, symbolic representation, and communication. However, existing models of em...
MUSCULAR ENDURANCE UNDER HYPNOSIS AND IN THE MOTIVATED WAKING STATE.

Abstract 8 female Ss scoring at least 10 on the Stanford Hypnotic Susceptibility Scale were required to hold a weight in the outstretched hand in three states: (a) under hypnosis; (b) under hypnosis with the upper arm and shoulder anesthetized hypnotically; and (c) in the waking state with motivation provided by a verbal exhortation and monetary payment. Order of performance in the three states was varied. No significant differences among states were found. The interaction between states and orders was significant, but it appears more likely to be the result of intersubject variability rather than of position or fatigue effects. Ss' expectancies and estimates of performance time, obtained postexperimentally, did not appear to be related to performance itself.
The slide projector as a computer-operated visual display*

Advantages and method are presented for using the slide projector in a computer-operated visual display system.
A Controlled Trial of Exercise Training in Older Coronary Patients

BACKGROUND This study compared the effects of a formal exercise conditioning program of 3 and 12 months duration to spontaneous recovery in a population of older, post-coronary event patients. METHODS Indices of peak exercise and submaximal exercise performance such as oxygen consumption, treadmill work capacity, minute ventilation, heart rate, and systolic blood pressure were assessed before and after conditioning in 60 post-myocardial infarction and post-coronary bypass surgery patients (mean age 68 +/- 5 years) and compared to measures of fitness in a usual care control group (n = 23, mean age 68 +/- 5 years). RESULTS Maximal treadmill work capacity increased by 47% in the intervention group at 3 months compared to no improvement in the usual care control group. However, both groups increased peak oxygen consumption similarly at 3 and 12 months, increasing by 16% and 20% in the intervention group at 3 and 12 months and by 7% and 14% in the control group (p = n.s.). Only the exercise training group manifested submaximal indices of conditioning such as a lower heart rate and minute ventilation at a standard workload. CONCLUSION While spontaneous improvements in peak oxygen consumption are seen in older coronary patients in the months following a coronary event, a formal exercise training program results in significantly greater increases in peak exercise capacity and in peak and submaximal exercise efficiency.
Multiple Forms of DNA-dependent RNA Polymerase in Eukaryotic Organisms

Three distinct RNA polymerase activities have been isolated from developing sea urchin embryos. In rat liver nuclei there are two RNA polymerase activities. One polymerase (I) is probably localized in the nucleolus and one (II) in the nucleoplasm.
Comparison Between Diclosulam- and Imazapic-Based Weed Control Systems in Peanut1

Abstract Field studies were conducted in Florida and Alabama in 1998 and 1999 to evaluate imazapic [70gai/ha preemergence (PRE) or early postemergence (EPOST)], diclosulam (18 or 26 g ai/ha PRE or 18 g/ha EPOST) or imazapic + diclosulam (35 + 13 g/ha PRE or 35 + 9 g/ha EPOST). These treatments were applied alone or supplemented with either a paraquat + bentazon tank mixture or 2,4-DB. The intent was to determine if diclosulam, which has a mode of action similar to imazapic and is less persistent and less costly, could be incorporated into systems with other herbicides and thereby offer an alternative to imazapic. Maximum yield and economic return were consistently associated with only two treatments, imazapic at 70 g/ha EPOST and imazapic + diclosulam at 35 + 9 g/ha EPOST. However, none of the diclosulam-based systems provided a more favorable economic return than imazapic applied alone due to poor sicklepod control with diclosulam. Sicklepod control with diclosulam was improved with the addition of eithe...
Holmium:YAG coronary laser angioplasty: lessons learned from a large clinical experience

The latest, most advanced laser device is the compact size, solid-state holmium:YAG (Eclipse 2100, Eclipse Surgical Technologies, Palo Alto, CA.) which is currently applied in a multicenter clinical observation study. The device emits 250-600 mJ/pulse, with a pulse length of 250 microseconds at 5 Hz. Five sizes of catheters are available: 1.2, 1.4, 1.5, 1.7 and 2.0 mm. Indications for its utilization include total and subtotal stenoses that fail to be crossed and dilated by a conventional balloon, restenosed lesions, calcified plaques, saphenous vein graft stenosis, ostial stenoses and thrombolysis and plaque ablation in acute myocardial infarction. The results of the initial 787 cases (858 lesions) of holmium:YAG laser coronary angioplasty have recently been reported. 93% procedural success was achieved. The laser reduced the stenosis from 89/spl plusmn/10% to 61/spl plusmn/22% and adjunct balloon angioplasty resulted in 23% residual stenosis. Complications included death 0.6%, emergency CABGS 3.4%, acute M.I. 3.4%, dissection 9.7%, perforation 2.2%, acute closure 3.7% and spasm 11.5%. At six months repeat angiography in 185 lesions revealed a 42% restenosis rate. At our medical center we have performed 107 coronary laser procedures (92% complex lesions) from October 1991 to May 1993. While success rate was 93% similar to that of the multicenter study, the rate of major complications was significantly lower. There were 0% deaths, 0% perforation, 0.9% emergency CABGS, 1.8% acute MI (only non-Q), 5% dissection and 4% spasm. We attribute this low complication rate to the new lasing technique which we have introduced, called "Pulse and Retreat". >