cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
No more HotDependencies: toward dependency-agnostic online upgrades in distributed systems

Traditional approaches for online upgrades of distributed systems rely on dependency tracking to preserve system integrity during and after the upgrade. Because dependency reification can become intractable, we aim to enforce the isolation of the old and new versions during the upgrade. We achieve this by installing the new version in a "parallel universe" - a separate physical or virtual infrastructure that does not communicate directly with the old version. This allows our upgrading middleware to treat the complex IT infrastructure as a black box with unknown hidden-dependencies, and to validate the upgrade by cross-checking the outputs of the two universes.
On the future of critical terrorism studies: A response to Richard Jackson's minimal foundationalist redefinition of terrorism

Recently, Jackson offered a minimally foundationalist, contingent redefinition of terrorism. This response article raises four main concerns with Jackson's attempted redefinition. The concerns in short are: (1) the redefinition of terrorism is voiced from a narrow methodological perspective that unduly limits the scope of possible ways to study terrorism in a systematic, critical mode; (2) it reifies terrorism as a form of extraordinary violence, which is problematic because it leads researchers to assume what could be explained and it leads researchers to miss salient and significant empirical traces of terrorism and counter-terrorism; (3) the redefinition of terrorism and the particular methodological stance it works from are insufficiently reflexive for a completely constructivist approach to terrorism studies; (4) it is less useful at organizing terrorism studies than a systematic clarification of the ontological and epistemological frameworks available to scholars studying terrorism.
A Social Capital Basis for Environmental Concern: Evidence from Northern New England*

This study, based on a random-digit-dialing telephone survey of adults in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont, uses ordinary least squares regression to examine a relatively neglected element in the sociological lit- erature on environmental concern, namely, the influence of an individual's social capital on the formation of environmental attitudes. We argue that it is those individuals with a greater diversity of social connections who are most likely to be influenced by ecological perspectives grounded in conservation and environmental protection. Controlling for other theoretically relevant variables, we regress an index of environmental concern that gives special emphasis to environmental-economic trade-offs on our measures of relational and community social capital. While confirming much of the earlier work in this area, our model provides evidence that connections to other people play an important role in determining individual concern for the environment. Specifically, the number of respondents' "weak ties"—that is, not their closest relationships—and the average occupational status of respondents' social ties, in general, were both positively correlated with environmental concern. Addi- tionally, one of our three measures of community social capital, the number of visits from friends over the past month, was statistically significant and negatively correlated with environmental concern.
Androgen-producing tumors in children and adolescents

Abstract Androgen-producing tumors of the adrenal and the ovary are extremely rare, however, their potential malignancy and the androgen effects can be detrimental to children and adolescents. Adrenal adenomas are usually small, whereas adrenal carcinomas are generally large and very aggressive, requiring prompt intervention. Adrenal tumors mostly secrete Δ 5 androgens, although at least 12 cases of testosterone-producing adrenal tumors have been reported. One-third of functioning adrenal tumors also have increased secretion of corticosteroids. Primary androgen-producing ovarian tumors are classified under several different histological groups. Incidence of malignancy in these tumors is approximately 5%. Tumors metastatic to the ovary may stimulate the adjacent ovarian stroma and cause virilization. These must be differentiated from primary ovarian tumors because the prognosis is completely different. Ovarian tumors prefer Δ 4 androgens, although cases mainly producing Δ 5 androgens have been reported. The dehydro-epiandrosterone sulfate and testosterone in serum are the best screening parameters for these tumors, although accurate diagnosis requires computed tomography for adrenal tumors and pelvic exam combined with ultrasonography for ovarian tumors. Venous catheterization studies are rarely indicated. Adrenal carcinoma requires aggressive surgical treatment, whereas adrenal adenomas and primary ovarian tumors can be treated with conservative unilateral procedures.
Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide and Corticotropin‐Releasing Hormone Increase β‐Endorphin Release and Proopiomelanocortin Messenger RNA Levels in Primary Cultures of Hypothalamic Cells: Effects of Acute and Chronic Ethanol Treatment

Background: β-Endorphin (β-EP) neurons are involved in ethanol's action on a variety of brain functions, including positive reinforcement. These neurons are innervated by vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP)–containing and corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH)–containing neurons in the hypothalamus. Whether these neuropeptides affect β-EP neuronal function in the presence or absence of ethanol has not previously been determined. Methods: The authors determined the effects of VIP and CRH on gene expression and peptide release from β-EP neurons in primary cultures of mediobasal hypothalamic cells. The effects of receptor antagonists on VIP- and CRH-induced β-EP release was determined. Furthermore, the authors studied the effects of acute and chronic treatment with ethanol on the response of β-EP neurons to VIP and CRH. Real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction was used for messenger RNA (mRNA) detection, and radioimmunoassay was used for hormone measurements. Results: We show that β-EP neurons responded concentration dependently to VIP and CRH treatments by increasing both β-EP release and proopiomelanocortin mRNA expression. Simultaneous treatment with a nonspecific receptor antagonist reduced the ability of CRH or VIP to induce β-EP release from mediobasal hypothalamic cells. Acute treatment with ethanol increased β-EP neuronal gene expression and the secretory response to CRH and VIP. However, previous exposure to chronic ethanol reduced the CRH and VIP responses of these neurons. Conclusions: These results indicate that VIP and CRH stimulate β-EP release from hypothalamic cells in primary cultures and that the stimulatory and adaptive responses of β-EP neurons to ethanol may involve alteration in the responsiveness of β-EP–secreting neurons to CRH and VIP.
The extended boundary node method for three-dimensional potential theory

The boundary node method (BNM) [Mukherjee YX, Mukherjee S. The boundary node method for potential problems. Int J Numer Methods Eng 1997;40:797-815] is a boundary-only mesh-free method that combines the moving least-squares (MLS) interpolation scheme with the standard boundary integral equations (BIEs). Curvilinear boundary co-ordinates were originally proposed and used in this method-for both two [Mukherjee YX, Mukherjee S. The boundary node method for potential problems. Int J Numer Methods Eng 1997;40:797-815] and three-dimensional [Mukherjee S, Mukherjee YX. Boundary methods-elements, contours and nodes. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, in press] problems in potential theory and in linear elasticity. Li and Aluru [Li G, Aluru NR. Boundary cloud method: a combined scattered point/boundary integral approach for boundary-only analysis. Comput Methods Appl Mech Eng 2002;191:2337-70; Li G. Aluru NR. A boundary cloud method with a cloud-by-cloud polynomial basis. Eng Anal Boundary Elem 2003;27:57-71] have recently proposed an elegant improvement to the BNM (called the boundary cloud method (BCM)) that allows the use of Cartesian co-ordinates. Their novel variable basis BCM [Li G. Aluru NR. A boundary cloud method with a cloud-by-cloud polynomial basis. Eng Anal Boundary Elem 2003;27:57-71] has several advantages relative to the original BCM. It does, however, have a drawback in that continuous approximants are used for all boundary variables, even across corners. It is well known, for example, that the normal derivative of the potential function in potential theory, or the traction in linear elasticity, often suffers jump discontinuities across corners in two-dimensional (2-D) and across edges and corners in three-dimensional (3-D) problems. The present authors [Telukunta S, Mukherjee S. An extended boundary node method for modeling normal derivative discontinuities in potential theory across edges and corners. Eng Anal Boundary Elem 2004;28:1099-110] have recently proposed a further improvement to the BNM and the variable basis BCM. This new approach is called the extended BNM (EBNM). This method employs Cartesian co-ordinates with variable bases, together with appropriate approximants for the normal derivative across edges and corners that can model discontinuities in this variable. Two-dimensional problems in potential theory are presented in [Telukunta S, Mukherjee S. An extended boundary node method for modeling normal derivative discontinuities in potential theory across edges and corners. Eng Anal Boundary Elem 2004;28:1099-110]. The present paper is concerned with far more challenging problems-3-D problems in potential theory.
EMULSIFICATION, FOAMING AND PROTEIN SOLUBILITY PROPERTIES OF DEFATTED SOYBEAN, PEANUT, FIELD PEA AND PECAN FLOURS

Defatted soybean, peanut, field pea and pecan flours were blended as 8% suspensions (w/v) with distilled water and characterized for emulsion and foam capacity, emulsion viscosity, protein solubility, and gel electrophoretic properties. Flour suspensions were evaluated for these properties at their natural pH, at pH 4.0, 8.2 and after a two-step sequential adjustment from the natural pH to 4.0 to 8.2. Maximum functionality of suspensions was noted as follows: (a) soybean flour, very thick mayonnaise-like emulsions (> 160,000 cps) and egg white-type foams at natural pH; (b) peanut flour, semi-thick mayonnaise-like emulsions (70,880 cps) and thick egg white-type foams after two-step adjustment to pH 8.2; (c) field pea flour, semi-thick mayonnaise-like emulsions (66,240 cps) and medium-thick foams after adjusting the pH directly to 8.2; and (d) pecan flour, very thick mayonnaise-like emulsions (> 160,000 cps) after two-step adjustment to pH 8.2. Protein solubility seems to be more closely associated with improved quality of emulsions and foams formed than with increased quantity of oil or air that could be bound by flour suspensions. Data from gel electrophoretic studies suggested that the major seed storage proteins were important in functionality tests, although other seed constituents, such as carbohydrates, may be equally involved.
Fragmentation of Asia's remaining wildlands: implications for Asian elephant conservation

Habitat loss and fragmentation are main causes for Asian elephant population declines. We mapped wildlands - large, unfragmented and undeveloped areas - asking: (1) Where are the largest wildlands that constitute elephant habitats? (2) What proportion of these wildlands is protected? (3) What is their potential for elephant conservation? Our study demonstrates that wildlands constitute only 51% of the Asian elephant range. Myanmar has the largest wildland (∼170,000 km2), followed by Thailand and India. In Principal Components Analysis (PCA), the first two components explained 73% of the variation in fragmentation among ranges. We identified three fragmentation clusters from the PCA. Cluster A contains large ranges with unfragmented wildlands; cluster B includes ranges with well-developed transportation networks and large human populations; and cluster C contains ranges with severely fragmented wildlands. In cluster A, we identified four ranges with elephant populations >1000 animals: ARYO, MYUC, BNMH and BITE. Together with ranges that support >1000 elephants in cluster B, these A ranges have great potential for long-term elephant conservation. We propose that fragmentation clusters and population size can be used to identify different elephant monitoring and management zones.
Gastrointestinal malignancies: when does race matter?

Background African Americans have a poorer survival from gastrointestinal cancers. We hypothesized that socioeconomic status may explain much of this disparity. Study Design Four years of population-based Medicare and Medicaid administrative claims files were merged with the Michigan Tumor Registry. Data were identified for 18,260 patients with colorectal (n = 13,001), pancreatic (n = 2,427), gastric (n = 1,739), and esophageal (n = 1,093) cancer. Three outcomes were studied: the likelihood of late stage diagnosis, the likelihood of surgery after diagnosis, and survival. Bivariate analysis was used to compare stage and operation between African-American and Caucasian patients. Cox proportional hazard models were used to evaluate differences in survival. Statistical significance was defined as p Results In unadjusted analyses, relative to Caucasian patients, African-American patients with colorectal and esophageal cancer were more likely to present with metastatic disease, were less likely to have surgery, and were less likely to survive during the study period (p Conclusions These data suggest that improvements in screening and rates of operation may reduce differences in colorectal cancer outcomes between African-American and Caucasian patients. But race has little influence on survival of patients with pancreatic, esophageal, or gastric cancer.
CONSTRUCTION OF MURINE CORONAVIRUS MUTANTS CONTAINING INTERSPECIES CHIMERIC NUCLEOCAPSID PROTEINS

Targeted RNA recombination was used to construct mouse hepatitis virus (MHV) mutants containing chimeric nucleocapsid (N) protein genes in which segments of the bovine coronavirus N gene were substituted in place of their corresponding MHV sequences. This defined portions of the two N proteins that, despite evolutionary divergence, have remained functionally equivalent. These regions included most of the centrally located RNA-binding domain and two putative spacers that link the three domains of the N protein. By contrast, the amino terminus of N, the acidic carboxy-terminal domain, and a serine- and arginine-rich segment of the central domain could not be transferred from bovine coronavirus to MHV, presumably because these parts of the molecule participate in protein-protein interactions that are specific for each virus (or, possibly, each host). Our results demonstrate that targeted recombination can be used to make extensive substitutions in the coronavirus genome and can generate recombinants that could not otherwise be made between two viruses separated by a species barrier. The implications of these findings for N protein structure and function as well as for coronavirus RNA recombination are discussed.
Barriers to Homeless Persons Acquiring Health Insurance Through the Affordable Care Act.

Abstract Background Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) is intended to provide a framework for increasing health care access for vulnerable populations, including the 1.2 million who experience homelessness each year in the United States. Objective We sought to characterize homeless persons' knowledge of the ACA, identify barriers to their ACA enrollment, and determine access to various forms of communication that could be used to facilitate enrollment. Methods At an urban county Level I trauma center, we interviewed all noncritically ill adults who presented to the emergency department (ED) during daytime hours and were able to provide consent. We assessed access to communication, awareness of the ACA, insurance status, and barriers preventing subjects from enrolling in health insurance and compared homeless persons' responses with concomitantly enrolled housed individuals. Results Of the 650 enrolled subjects, 134 (20.2%) were homeless. Homeless subjects were more likely to have never heard of the ACA (26% vs. 10%). “Not being aware if they qualify for Medicaid” was the most common (70%) and most significant (30%) barrier to enrollment reported by uninsured homeless persons. Of homeless subjects who were unsure if they qualified for Medicaid, 91% reported an income Conclusions Homeless persons report having less knowledge of the ACA than their housed counterparts, poor understanding of ACA qualification criteria, and limited access to phone and internet. ED-based outreach and education regarding ACA eligibility may increase their enrollment.
Role of Small Animals in Social Interactions between Strangers

Abstract Although the socializing role of dogs for people has been well documented, the effectiveness of less active animals in precipitating social interactions is not known. This study examined whether a rabbit or a turtle when accompanied by a young woman confederate sitting in a park would attract unfamiliar adults and children and result in social interchange. For comparison, the woman also sat blowing bubbles or with an operating television set. Behaviors of the approaching adults and children were noted, and conversations were tape recorded. Social approaches were frequent when the woman was sitting with the rabbit or blowing bubbles, were numerous when she was sitting with the turtle, and were virtually absent when she was watching television. The rabbit attracted the most adults. Approaching adults and children talked primarily about the stimulus and themselves and made few references to the confederate. In a friendly community setting and without special effort or obvious need by the confederate...
An Implantable 64-Channel Wireless Microsystem for Single-Unit Neural Recording

This paper reports an implantable microsystem capable of recording neural activity simultaneously on 64 channels, wirelessly transmitting spike occurrences to an external interface. The microsystem also allows the user to examine the spike waveforms on any channel with 8 bit resolution. Signals are amplified by 60 dB with a programmable bandwidth from < 100 Hz to 10 kHz. The input-referred noise is 8 ?Vrms. The channel scan rate for spike detection is 62.5 kS/sec using a 2 MHz clock. The system dissipates 14.4 mW at 1.8 V, weighs 275 mg, and measures 1.4 cm 1.55 cm.
Double-strand Break Repair Assays Determine Pathway Choice and Structure of Gene Conversion Events in Drosophila melanogaster

Double-strand breaks (DSBs) must be accurately and efficiently repaired to maintain genome integrity. Depending on the organism receiving the break, the genomic location of the DSB, and the cell-cycle phase in which it occurs, a DSB can be repaired by homologous recombination (HR), nonhomologous end-joining (NHEJ), or single-strand annealing (SSA). Two novel DSB repair assays were developed to determine the contributions of these repair pathways and to finely resolve repair event structures in Drosophila melanogaster. Rad51-dependent homologous recombination is the preferred DSB repair pathway in mitotically dividing cells, and the pathway choice between HR and SSA occurs after end resection and before Rad51-dependent strand invasion. HR events are associated with long gene conversion tracts and are both bidirectional and unidirectional, consistent with repair via the synthesis-dependent strand annealing pathway. Additionally, HR between diverged sequences is suppressed in Drosophila, similar to levels reported in human cells. Junction analyses of rare NHEJ events reveal that canonical NHEJ is utilized in this system.
A two-level protocol to answer private location-based queries

An important privacy issue in Location Based Services (LBS) is to hide a user's identity and location while still providing quality location based services. A user's identity can be easily hidden through anonymous web browsing services. However, a user's location can reveal a user's identity. For example, a user at home may want to ask queries such as “Find the nearest hospital around me” through a GPS enabled mobile phone but he may not be willing to dislose his own location. A common way to achieve location privacy is through cloaking, e.g. the client sends a cloaked region to the server and filters the results to find the exact answer. Recently, Private Information Retrieval has been adopted to answer private location-based queries. However, we argue that ensuring the server does not reveal more data than what is queried is important at the same time. In this paper, we propose an efficient two-level solution based on two cryptographic protocols: PIR and Oblivious Transfer. Our solution is a general-purpose one and can use either a two-level PIR [2] or it can use a combination of PIR and Oblivious Transfer [11]. Our approach provides privacy for the user/client, does not use a trusted party or anonymizer, is provably privacy-preserving, and when compared to previous approaches ensures that the server reveals as minimum data as is required, and the data that is released by the server is as fine-grained or precise as possible.
On Bootstrap Tests of Symmetry About an Unknown Median

It is important to examine the symmetry of an underlying distribution before applying some statistical procedures to a data set. For example, in the Zuni School District case, a formula originally developed by the Department of Education trimmed 5% of the data symmetrically from each end. The validity of this procedure was questioned at the hearing by Chief Justice Roberts. Most tests of symmetry (even nonparametric ones) are not distribution free in finite sample sizes. Hence, using asymptotic distribution may not yield an accurate type I error rate or/and loss of power in small samples. Bootstrap resampling from a symmetric empirical distribution function fitted to the data is proposed to improve the accuracy of the calculated p-value of several tests of symmetry. The results show that the bootstrap method is superior to previously used approaches relying on the asymptotic distribution of the tests that assumed the data come from a normal distribution. Incorporating the bootstrap estimate in a recently proposed test due to Miao, Gel and Gastwirth (2006) preserved its level and shows it has reasonable power properties on the family of distribution evaluated.
INTERFERON PRODUCTION BY MOUSE LEUKOCYTES IN VITRO AND IN VIVO

Vaccinia virus penetrates, or is phagocytosed by, mouse leukocytes in vitro . A cytotoxic effect is observed, but no new infectious virus is produced. Vaccinia virus, as infectious particles, is eliminated from a culture of leukocytes at a more rapid rate than can be accounted for by thermal inactivation. Leukocytes infected with vaccinia virus produce a substance with the properties of interferon. The evidence presented suggests that leukocytes also produce interferon in vivo and that this interferon is related to the observed protective effect on the outcome of intracerebral vesicular stomatitis virus challenge in mice. It is postulated that leukocytes, in this manner, may make a positive contribution to the host's defense mechanism and to the process of recovery from viral infections.
Vasovasostomy: multiple children and long-term pregnancy rates.

Abstract Purpose To determine the long-term patency and pregnancy rates after vasovasostomy and to determine the likelihood of having more than 1 child after this procedure. Materials and methods We performed a retrospective examination of 73 patients that were at least 4 years out from vasovasostomy at our institution. Patients and their partners completed questionnaires that focused on their pre- and post-procedure fertility, vasal obstructive interval, time to pregnancy, and the number of children conceived. All patients were asked to obtain a current semen analysis. Results From a population of 73 patients with proven prior fertility, 43 could be contacted for data collection. Of the 43 men, 39 (91%) reported that they had actively tried to father children. These 39 men are a mean of 84.8 months (range, 4 to 10 years) out from their surgery, with a mean vasal obstructive interval of 87 months (7.4 years). All men denied using assisted reproduction techniques except the father of the only twins, who reported the use of ICSI for female-factor infertility. He was excluded from further pregnancy calculations. Forty-five percent of couples achieved at least 1 pregnancy, whereas 6 of 17 (35%) conceived 2 children. Mean time to conception was 14.7 months for the first child and 51 months for the second (range, 13 to 108 months). In those that did not conceive (n = 21), the mean obstructive interval was 106 months versus 81 months for those that did conceive. This time interval was not statistically different (P > 0.05). Mean maternal age was significantly less in those that did versus those that did not conceive (32.2 vs 36.6 years) (P Conclusions After vasovasostomy in patients with a vasal obstructive interval of 7 years, up to 45% of couples may achieve pregnancy and up to 35% could go on to conceive a second child. Long-term anastomosis patency after the procedure is estimated to be approximately 60%. Maternal age is a significant factor in predicting a couple’s success in conceiving a child. Vasovasostomy remains a highly effective option for restoration of fertility in vasectomy patients, while offering the opportunity for multiple pregnancies with only a single intervention.
Automatic test generation algorithms for analogue circuits

The author reviews the recently published automatic test generation algorithms for analogue circuits, focusing on their applicability to specific circuit classes, limitations in more general applications and possible improvements. Selected new test generation paradigms, involving design-for-test and BIST techniques, are also discussed to indicate future directions in test generation.
Measurement and mechanism of pole tip recession with advanced metal evaporated tape at low tension in a linear tape drive

Increased head-to-tape spacing in a magnetic tape drive causes signal loss. Pole tip recession (PTR) is a type of differential wear that occurs with tape heads and increases the effective head-to-tape spacing. The extent and mechanism of PTR that occurs when using metal particle (MP) tape has been examined by various authors and is well documented. To achieve higher recording density, tape manufacturers are developing thin-film tapes, such as advanced metal evaporated (AME) tape, for use in linear tape drives. The structure of AME tape is fundamentally different from MP tape and AME tape must be run at lower tension. The goals of this study are to determine the amount of PTR that occurs and to investigate the mechanism by which PTR proceeds when AME and MP tapes are rubbed against a commercial head in a linear tape drive at low tension. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) was used to measure PTR after interval sliding distances. It is shown that use of AME tape led to lower PTR than use of MP tape, and the probable mechanism of PTR growth is three-body abrasion, with different types of abrasive debris from the two tapes.
Participant reactions to a pretreatment research assessment during a treatment outcome study for PTSD

Participants' reactions to pretreatment assessments have not been studied as part of a randomized clinical trial (RCT) for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The current study examined participants' reactions in women with PTSD who completed pretreatment assessments during an RCT. We assessed participant reactions (N = 100) to a pretreatment assessment that included self-report questionnaires, interviews, and psychophysiological assessment. Results indicated that participation in pretreatment assessment was well tolerated as measured by participants' reports of distress, interest level, perceptions of the appropriateness of assessment length, and willingness to participate in a similar assessment in the future. Participating in lengthy pretreatment assessments did not adversely impact treatment participation or outcome.
On the Relationship Between Temperature and MODIS Snow Cover Retrieval Errors in the Western U.S.

Understanding and quantifying satellite-based remotely sensed snow cover errors are critical for successful utilization of snow cover products. The Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) Snow Covered Area (SCA) product errors have been previously recognized to be associated with factors such as cloud contamination, snow pack particles, vegetation cover, and topography; however, the quantitative relationship between the retrieval errors and these factors remains elusive. Joint analysis of MODIS SCA and land surface temperature (LST) products, and in-situ air temperature and snow water equivalent (SWE) measurements provides a unique look at the error structure of the recently developed MODIS SCA products. Analysis of the MODIS SCA data set over the period from 2000 to 2005 was undertaken for the California/Nevada and Colorado regions of the western United States. Both regions have extensive observational networks. For this study area, the MODIS SCA product demonstrates strong ability in detecting the presence of snow cover (80%). However, significant spatial and temporal variations in accuracy (from 75% in high roughness to 86% in low roughness regions and 45% in October to 94% in February) suggest that a proxy is required to adequately predict the MODIS SCA product errors. For the first time, we demonstrate a relationship between the errors in the MODIS SCA products and temperature in the western United States, and find that this relationship is well-represented by the cumulative double exponential distribution function. We have performed a fitting and validation experiment by deriving the relationship between temperature and the errors in the MODIS SCA product from 2000-2004 period and using 2005 to independently test our method. This relationship is shown to hold for both in-situ daily mean air temperature and MODIS LST. Both of them are useful indices in quantifying the errors in MODIS product for various hydrological applications.
Short-Term Forecast Validation of Six Models

Abstract The short-term forecast accuracy of six different forecast models over the western United States is described for January, February, and March 1996. Four of the models are operational products from the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) and the other two are research models with initial and boundary conditions obtained from NCEP models. Model resolutions vary from global wavenumber 126 (∼100 km equivalent horizontal resolution) for the Medium Range Forecast model (MRF) to about 30 km for the Meso Eta, Utah Local Area Model (Utah LAM), and Pennsylvania State University–National Center for Atmospheric Research Mesoscale Model Version 5 (MM5). Forecast errors are described in terms of bias error and mean square error (mse) as computed relative to (i) gridded objective analyses and (ii) rawinsonde observations. Bias error and mse fields computed relative to gridded analyses show considerable variation from model to model, with the largest errors produced by the most highly resolved ...
How demographic stochasticity can slow biological invasions

Ecologists have traditionally neglected demographic stochasticity in describ- ing the spread of an invading species. However, the region most critical in determining wave speed is often the leading edge, precisely the point where demographic stochasticity is most pronounced. In this paper, I analyze a common class of one-dimensional, single- species invasion models and find that, for very general conditions, demographic stochasticity slows biological invasions. Nonetheless, the slowing is not large enough to be noticeable in most ecological time series. I also briefly discuss the role of transient dynamics and rare, long-distance dispersal.
Pulse-Amplitude Modulation

An information-bearing signal must conform to the limitations of its channel. While the bit streams we wish to transmit are inherently discrete-time, all physical media are continuous-time in nature. Hence, we need to represent the bit stream as a continuous-time signal for transmission, a process called modulation
High temporal resolution functional MRI with partial separability model

Even though the hemodynamic response is a slow phenomenon, high temporal resolution in functional fMRI can enable better differentiation between the signal of interest and physiological noise or increase the statistical power of functional studies. To increase the temporal resolution, several methods have been developed to decrease the repetition time, TR, such as simultaneous multi-slice imaging and MR encephalography approaches. In this work, a method using a fast acquisition and a partial separability model is presented to achieve a multi-slice fMRI protocol at a temporal resolution of 75 ms. The method is demonstrated on a visual block task.
A method to objectively sort P-wave first-motion data for composite focal mechanism solutions

This paper describes a new method which is used in the process of determining composite focal mechanism solutions to objectively sort earthquakes into sets in which the P -wave first-motion data are compatible. For a network of n stations, each one of which can record either of two first motions (dilatation or compression), there are 2 n mathematically possible patterns of first motions; only a few of these mathematically possible patterns are physically possible for a double-couple source. A comparison is made between the observed first-motion data from a set of earthquakes in a small source region to each of the 2n mathematically possible patterns. The comparison results in two parameters being assigned to each of the patterns: (1) the number of earthquakes which have first motions compatible with the pattern; and (2) the number of actual first-motion data for those earthquakes. Generally, one finds only a few patterns with high parameter values, and which are based on data from independent subsets of earthquakes. In all the cases examined so far, these few patterns are physically possible; i.e., they are compatible with double-couple focal mechanism solutions. The focal mechanism solution determined from a selected pattern of first motion is a composite solution because it is based on the first-motion data from a number of earthquakes.
A Nonlinear Model for the Analysis of Judicial Decisions

Various attempts have been made in recent years to analyze judicial decisions in selected areas of law as functions of controlling facts. At least two of these attempts have relied on systems of simultaneous equations. In both endeavors the assumption was made that the combination of facts on which the decisions depend is linear. In the absence of any clear indication of a nonlinear combination, as well as in view of the significant results that were obtained on the basis of a linear model, the initial approach was justified. The use of high speed digital computers has made it possible, however, to explore the existence of nonlinear relationships where the original assumption of linear relationships was made. The important feature in detecting nonlinear relationships is not primarily the greater accuracy of the results—the linear model has provided acceptable approximations—but the acquisition of new insights into how different facts combine in influencing judicial decisions. It is the purpose of this paper first to review the linear model, and then to show how it can be extended to a nonlinear model—in general terms as well as in the form of an actual application. Finally, limitations and implications of the nonlinear model will be indicated.
The antidiuretic action of carbamazepine in man.

1. Carbamazepine had an antidiuretic effect in six patients with neurohypophyseal diabetes insipidus due to various causes. The effect was qualitatively similar to that of antidiuretic hormone. 2. At the time of maximal antidiuresis plasma arginine vasopressin levels, measured by radioimmunoassay, were below the limit of detectability in all patients. 3. In one of two control subjects a temporary decrease in water excretion was observed during administration or carbamazepine. 4. In the two control subjects plasma arginine vasopressin levels dropped from normal to below the level of detectability during administration of the drug. 5. It is concluded that the antidiuretic effect of carbamazepine is not the result of releasing endogenous antidiuretic hormone or of prolonging its half-life. 6. The most likely explanation for the observed results is either a direct effect of carbamazepine on the distal renal tubular cell or an increase of renal responsiveness to endogenous antidiuretic hormone.
The Relationship Between Health-Related Quality of Life and Body Mass Index.

Obesity is a chronic, progressive, multifactorial medical condition. It is known that obesity is associated with cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, degenerative joint disorders, and decreased health-related quality of life (HRQoL). In addition, there are socio-economic, gender, age, and racial differences in the population distribution of obesity. The extent to which HRQoL is impaired by obesity independent of associated chronic disease and known demographic risk factors is less well understood by nurses. A secondary analysis of the National Health Measurement Study (NHMS) was conducted to illustrate this relationship. Regression analyses were used to assess the association between body mass index (BMI) and HRQol. BMI was categorized as normal, overweight, obese, and morbidly obese. HRQoL was measured using the EQ-5D and EQ-VAS. After adjusting for chronic health conditions and demographic factors, lower HRQoL was observed as BMI category increased for both the EQ-5D, F = 40.49, 15 df, p < .001,...
Owner Evaluation of a CORA‐Based Leveling Osteotomy for Treatment of Cranial Cruciate Ligament Injury in Dogs

Objective To evaluate a center of rotation of angulation (CORA)-based leveling osteotomy for cranial cruciate ligament injury in dogs. Study Design Retrospective case series. Animals Dogs (n=70). Methods Medical records (March 2011 to March 2012) of dogs diagnosed with a cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) injury treated with a CORA-based leveling osteotomy and stabilized using a bone plate and headless compression screw were reviewed. Radiographs were reviewed for tibial plateau angle and radiographic healing at final evaluation graded on a 5-point scale. Follow-up for a minimum of 6 months postoperatively was conducted by owner completion of a questionnaire regarding their dog's function after surgery. Based on owner responses, clinical outcomes were established. Results CORA-based leveling osteotomy was used for 70 stifles with CCL injury. The mean time to final radiographic recheck was 107 days (range, 32–424 days). Radiographic healing scores were 42 dogs (69%) with grade 4, 17 dogs (28%) with grade 3, and 2 dogs (3%) with grade 2. The mean time to follow-up was 11.9 months (range 6–18 months). Fifty-four of the 70 (77%) dogs had full function, 13 (19%) had acceptable function, and 3 (4%) had unacceptable function. Complications occurred in 11 stifles (16%), including 3 incisional, 6 late-onset meniscal tears, and 2 implant related. Conclusion The described method of a CORA-based leveling osteotomy can be successfully performed for treatment of CCL injury in dogs. At the time of mid-term and long-term owner follow-up, most dogs in this case series had returned to full function.
Discussion on Several Problems with Safety Monitoring System of Long-distance Water Diversion Projects

In combination with the construction management experience in safety monitoring of the Ningbo Baixi Water Diversion Project,the Wanjiazhai Yellow River Water Diversion Project in Shanxi and the Dongjiang-Shenzhen Water Diversion Project in Guangdong,the different characteristics and requirements of such projects are expatiated.Some problems such as the design of automatic monitoring system,construction,quality control,operation and maintenance are discussed.This discussion is significant for the design,construction,operation and management of similar projects.
Analysis of the oil pipeline leakage feature vector extraction based on wavelet packet

In this paper the fundamental principle of using wavelet transform to decompose the pressure signal is introduced. Wavelet transform is used in pressure denoising and pipeline feature vector extraction. Wavelet threshold algorithm for denoising pressure signal of pipeline proves to be effective. This method can hold the useful components of the signal while denoising most effectively. Using wavelet packet elaborate frequency division technique we can decompose the signal frequency bandwidth more subtly. Furthermore, the feature vector of pipeline operation state has been established based on frequency bandwidth.This can be used to monitor the real time state of pipeline working.
Rewards and difficulties of oncology nursing.

PURPOSE To describe oncology nurses' perceptions of the rewards and difficulties of their work. DESIGN Multi-institutional, descriptive, qualitative. SETTING Six sites in different regions of the United States; rural and urban cancer and noncancer centers. SAMPLE 38 oncology nurses (mean age = 35 years; average time in nursing = 10 years and in oncology = 7 years; 47% bachelor's degree in nursing, 29% diploma, 13% associate degree in nursing, and 11% master's prepared). METHODS Phenomenological; content analysis of interviews. FINDINGS Nurses described sources and origins of both job stress and satisfaction. The three most important sources of rewards were patients, co-workers, and new skills. These sources of rewards also were described as sources of difficulties. Additional sources of difficulties include lack of competent administrators, lack of time, and life stresses. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE Nurses' experiences with work are shaped by both common and very individual and personal realities. Aspects that are rewarding also are difficult, and individual experiences and perceptions change the meaning of work and the needs that nurses have. Considering the findings in the context of nurses' lives may yield more fruitful approaches to providing support and resources that nurses need to be able to provide effective care for patients and their families.
Urban meteorological modeling using WRF: A sensitivity study

This study explores the sensitivity of high-resolution mesoscale simulations of urban heat island (UHI) in the Chicago metropolitan area (CMA) and its environs to urban physical parameterizations, with emphasis on the role of lake breeze. A series of climate downscaling experiments were conducted using the urban-Weather Research and Forecasting (uWRF) model at 1-km horizontal resolution for a relatively warm period with a strong lake breeze. The study employed best available morphological data sets, selection of appropriate urban parameters, and estimates of anthropogenic heating sources for the CMA. Several urban parameterization schemes were then evaluated using these parameter values. The study also examined (1) the impacts of land data assimilation for initialization of the mesoscale model, (2) the role of urbanization on UHI and lake breeze, and (3) the effects of sub-grid scale land-cover variability on urban meteorological predictions. Comparisons of temperature and wind simulations with station observations and Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer satellite data in the CMA showed that uWRF, with appropriate selection of urban parameter values, was able to reproduce the measured near-surface temperature and wind speeds reasonably well. In particular, the model was able to capture the observed spatial variation of 2-m near-surface temperatures at night, when the UHI effect was pronounced. Results showed that inclusion of sub-grid scale variability of land-use and initializing models with more accurate land surface data can yield improved simulations of near-surface temperatures and wind speeds, particularly in the context of simulating the extent and spatial heterogeneity of UHI effects.
Real-Time Asynchronous/Synchronous Lock-In Thermal-Wave Imaging with an IR Video Camera

We describe an IR thermal-wave system which does real-time, lock-in imaging which is asynchronous with the camera’s scanning. This technique is compared with the previously reported synchronous version of lock-in imaging.
Capsaicin-sensitive Innervation Modulates the Development of Apical Periodontitis.

Abstract Introduction Nociceptive neurons play a critical role in the detection of stimuli evoking actual or potential tissue injury. In addition, they are involved in neurogenic inflammation by the peripheral release of neuropeptides such as calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP). The dental pulp and periradicular tissues are innervated by capsaicin-sensitive neurons known to release CGRP. However, the role of these capsaicin-sensitive neurons in the development of apical periodontitis is largely unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the contribution of peptidergic neurons to the development of apical periodontitis. Methods Neonatal Sprague-Dawley rats were injected with vehicle (control group) or a single subcutaneous capsaicin dose to cause the selective ablation of peptidergic neurons (neonatal capsaicin group). Ablation of capsaicin-sensitive neurons was verified with confocal microscopy, capsaicin-induced eye-wipe nocifensive behavior test, and by measurement of immunoreactive CGRP levels in the dental pulp. Five weeks after ablation, standardized pulp exposures were made in the mandibular left first molars. Mandibles were harvested at 7, 14, 21, and 28 days after pulp exposure and imaged with micro–computed tomography (μCT) to quantify apical lesion volume. Data were analyzed by using 2-way ANOVA analysis with Bonferroni post hoc test. Results Rats in the control group displayed a robust capsaicin-induced nocifensive behavior, which was nearly abolished in the neonatal capsaicin group. In addition, the neonatal capsaicin group showed a significant depletion of susceptible neurons and CGRP in the dental pulp compared with control. Importantly, micro–computed tomography analysis showed larger periradicular lesions at 7 and 14 days after pulp exposure in the neonatal capsaicin group when compared with control. Conclusions Results identify a protective role for capsaicin-sensitive neurons in the initial phase of apical periodontitis. Thus, interventions or disorders that alter activity of capsaicin-sensitive fibers are likely to alter the development of apical periodontitis.
Adaptive adolescent flexibility: Neurodevelopment of decision-making and learning in a risky context

Research on adolescence has largely focused on the particular biological and neural changes that place teens at risk for negative outcomes linked to increases in sensation-seeking and risky behavior. However, there is a growing interest in the adaptive function of adolescence, with work highlighting the dual nature of adolescence as a period of potential risk and opportunity. We examined how behavioral and neural sensitivity to risk and reward varies as a function of age using the Balloon Analog Risk Task. Seventy-seven children and adolescents ages 8-17 years completed the Balloon Analog Risk Task during an fMRI session. Results indicate that adolescents show greater learning throughout the task. Furthermore, older participants showed increased neural responses to reward in the OFC and ventral striatum, increased activation to risk in the mid-cingulate cortex, as well as increased functional OFC-medial PFC coupling in both risk and reward contexts. Age-related changes in regional activity and interregional connectivity explain the link between age and increases in flexible learning. These results support the idea that adolescents' sensitivity to risk and reward supports adaptive learning and behavioral approaches for reward acquisition.