cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Recent developments in Japan's bond and money markets

Abstract This paper traces the evolution of Japan's bond and money markets, which were for many years characterized by market segmentation, regulated interest rates, and a limited menu of financial instruments. Beginning in the late 1970s, the authorities responded to a major structural change in the real economy by liberalizing the financial system. Consequently, the bond and money markets have expanded rapidly and, with the elimination of legal barriers and a fall in transactions costs, different components of these once-segmented financial markets in Japan have become highly integrated. However, market liberalization is not yet complete, and further liberalization is likely to occur with implications for the regulation of other aspects of the financial system.
Magnetic and thermal properties of adsorbed binary systems of O 2 -Ar and O 2 - N 2

We report a high-resolution study of the magnetic susceptibility and heat capacity of submonolayer films of oxygen-argon and oxygen-nitrogen mixtures on Grafoil from 3 to 70 K. These systems behave quite differently, in consequence of the different registry properties of argon and nitrogen on graphite.
Identification of a 120 kd hair-bundle myosin located near stereociliary tips

Abstract By adapting to sustained stimuli, hair cells of the internal ear maintain their optimal sensitivity to minute displacements. Biophysical experiments have suggested that adaptation is mediated by a molecular motor, most likely a member of the myosin family. To provide direct evidence for the presence of myosin isozymes in hair bundles, we used photoaffinity labeling with vanadate-trapped uridine and adenine nucleotides to identify proteins of 120, 160, and 230 kd in a preparation of hair bundles purified from the bullfrog's sacculus. The photoaffinity labeling properties of these proteins, particularly the 120 kd protein, resembled those of other well-characterized myosins. A 120 kd hair-bundle protein was also recognized by a monoclonal antibody directed against a vertebrate myosin I isozyme. Immunofluorescence microscopy localized this protein near the beveled top edge of the hair bundle, the site of mechano-electrical transduction and adaptation.
Detection of transient signals using the energy operator

A function of the Teager-Kaiser energy operator is introduced as a method for detecting transient signals in the presence of amplitude-modulated and frequency-modulated tonal interference. This function has excellent time resolution and is robust in the presence of white noise. The output of the detection function is also independent of the interference-to-transient ratio when that ratio is large. It is demonstrated that the detection function can be applied to interference signals with multiple amplitude-modulated and frequency-modulated tonal components. >
Elevated lipid levels in Vietnam veterans with chronic posttraumatic stress disorder.

Abstract Background: Elevated cholesterol levels have been reported in panic disorder and anger attacks, but not major depression. No data have been reported in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Methods: Seventy-three male Vietnam veterans with chronic (PTSD) had serum lipid screening upon entry to a 90-day inpatient program. Results: Elevated cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, and reduced high-density lipoprotein, were frequent in Vietnam veterans with chronic PTSD and are significant risk factors for coronary artery disease. Conclusions: Routine lipid screening may be warranted in this at-risk population. Altered lipid levels may result from activation of the noradrenergic system.
Job characteristics, work satisfactions, and task involvement as correlates of service delivery strategies

Three agencies which evidenced different strategies for providing services to retarded clients were examined. Employees of an agency which had implemented a community-oriented strategy demonstrated the highest levels of job satisfaction and task involvement. Significant differences were found on four of eight job-design variables; however, methodological difficulties made interpretation of these differences difficult. The results were viewed as consistent with the hypothesis that different service delivery strategies are associated with differences in jobs, satisfactions, and task involvement.
The Effects of Response to Intervention on Literacy Development in Multiple-Language Settings

This descriptive study documents the effects of response-to-intervention type practices in four first-grade classrooms of English learners (ELs) from 11 native languages in three schools in a large...
Financial Benefits of Early Acquisition of Transportation Right-of-Way

Right-of-way acquisition is a substantial element of the cost of many highway construction and expansion projects. Given land price appreciation on the one hand and the opportunity cost of owning land on the other, a great deal of money can be at stake in the question of whether right-of-way should be purchased well in advance of when construction is expected to take place. This paper develops a theoretical framework for thinking about this issue and describes some results from an analysis at a fairly aggregate geographic level. The general result is that early acquisition is not a good investment in the most general sense, given the average rate of land price increase and the cost of money as well as other costs associated with early acquisition. The one clear exception is land that is in imminent danger of development. A major limitation of this work is that it viewed land prices only in the aggregate and did not specifically examine the immediate vicinity of the right-of-way. The research did find some support for the notion that certain types of land in specific locations can appreciate in price much faster than the average. It is not clear, however, that it is possible to predict these situations with sufficient accuracy to take advantage of the potential cost savings.
Relationships between voluntary activation and motor unit firing rate during maximal voluntary contractions in young and older adults

The extent to which an individual can voluntarily produce maximal muscular force can be estimated using the interpolated twitch technique. Incompleteness of activation is typically attributed to either incomplete recruitment, suboptimal firing rates or both of these mechanisms. The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between muscle activation and maximal motor unit firing rates. Measures of muscle activation and motor unit firing rates during maximal effort contractions were obtained from 15 subjects (8 young, 7 older) throughout a 6-week strength training program for the knee extensors. High resolution interpolated twitch responses were obtained using a circuit that removes the force level of the maximal voluntary contraction prior to amplification of the additional evoked force. Maximal firing rates were obtained using a four-wire needle electrode. Electrical stimulation of the knee extensors during maximal effort contractions evoked a transient increase in the force and the amplitude of this additional force was correlated with maximal firing rates at r = −0.62 (p < 0.05). Central activation ratio and activation level, two indexes of activation, were correlated with maximal firing rates at r = 0.58 (p < 0.05) and r = 0.68 (p < 0.05), respectively. The training program elicited parallel increases in muscular activation and maximal firing rates. These results provide direct support for maximal firing rate as a significant factor limiting maximal force production.
Identification of 3,4-Dimethoxyphenethylamine from Schizophrenic Urine by Mass Spectrometry

THE occurrence of the “pink spot” in the urine of schizophrenics was first reported by Friedhoff and van Winkle1, who tentatively identified the substance as 3,4-dimethoxyphenethylamine (3,4-DMPEA). Subsequent interest in this amine is linked to the possibility that its formation may result from an aberration in the metabolism of the endogenous amine, dopamine, as either a resultant or aetiological factor in mental disorders2. Reports of both confirmatory3–7 and conflicting8–14 nature have appeared with respect to the identity and origin of the “pink spot”15,16. The methods which have been used to isolate and identify the “pink spot”, solvent extraction, ion-exchange chromatography, paper and thin-layer chromatography, counter-current distribution and various colour reactions, have not provided unequivocal identification. Much of the controversy originates from the non-specificity of chromatographic separation and the complexity of amines present in human urine. Indeed, several “pink spot” occur in urine extracts which are isographic in one or more of the solvent systems used to isolate the “pink spot”.
Model Hamiltonians for atomic and molecular systems

A model Hamiltonian, designed to allow larger systems to be treated with the Green’s function Monte Carlo method, is introduced for atomic and molecular systems. The model reduces the statistical variance associated with Green’s function Monte Carlo calculations by reducing potential energy fluctuations in the core regions. By performing calculations of Li, LiH, and Li2 we show that this method can be used to obtain energy differences with much less computer time than required for the complete interaction. Increases in efficiency for larger systems will be even greater.
A methodology for the collection of supplemental information on agricultural fatalities.

Due to the lack of a standardized methodology to identify agriculturally related fatalities and the inaccuracy of data from death certificates, NSC's and NIOSH's estimates of the level of agriculturally related fatalities conflict, and the validity of both is subject to criticism. A follow-up survey with the next of kin of 107 potential agricultural fatalities, from a pool of 150 Pennsylvania cases, has been conducted. This paper details the methods and success in gaining supplemental information. Next of kin were generally willing to provide the information (67%), with both telephone (66%) and mail (68%) methods generating comparable levels of cooperation. The optimal time frame for finding current addresses and telephone numbers as well as for gaining cooperation appeared to be about 1 year after the fatality. However, a retrospective investigation of up to 3 years past the anniversary of the fatality produced an acceptable rate of cooperation. How the collected data compares with fatality data for agriculture published by NSC and N1OSH has been addressed in another paper. Language: en
A Formulation to Encapsulate Nootkatone for Tick Control

Nootkatone is a component of grapefruit oil that is toxic to the disease-vectoring tick, Ixodes scapularis Say, but unfortunately causes phytotoxicity to treated plants and has a short residual activity due to volatility. We prepared a lignin-encapsulated nootkatone formulation to compare with a previously used emulsifiable formulation for volatility, plant phytotoxicity, and toxicity to unfed nymphs of I. scapularis. Volatility of nootkatone was measured directly by trapping nootkatone vapor in a closed system and indirectly by measuring nootkatone residue on treated filter paper after exposure to simulated sunlight (Xenon). After 24 h in the closed system, traps collected only 15% of the nootkatone applied as the encapsulated formulation compared with 40% applied as the emulsifiable formulation. After a 1-h light exposure, the encapsulated formulation retained 92% of the nootkatone concentration compared with only 26% retained by the emulsifiable formulation. For plant phytotoxicity, cabbage, Brassica oleracea L., leaves treated with the encapsulated formulation expressed less necrosis, retaining greater leaf weight compared with leaves treated with the emusifiable formulation. The nootkatone in the emulsifiable formulation was absorbed by cabbage and oat, Avena sativa L., plants (41 and 60% recovered 2 h after application, respectively), as opposed to 100% recovery from the plants treated with encapsulated nootkatone. Using a treated vial technique, encapsulated nootkatone was significantly more toxic to I. scapularis nymphs (LC50 = 20 ng/cm2) compared with toxicity of the emulsifiable formulation (LC50 = 35 ng/cm2). Thus, the encapsulation of nootkatone improved toxicity for tick control, reduced nootkatone volatility, and reduced plant phytotoxicity.
Response of selected binomial coefficients to varying degrees of matrix sparseness and to matrices with known data interrelationships

Numerous departures from ideal relationships are revealed by Monte Carlo simulations of widely accepted binomial coefficients. For example, simulations incorporating varying levels of matrix sparseness (presence of zeros indicating lack of data) and computation of expected values reveal that not only are all common coefficients influenced by zero data, but also that some coefficients do not discriminate between sparse or dense matrices (few zero data). Such coefficients computationally merge mutually shared and mutually absent information and do not exploit all the information incorporated within the standard 2 × 2 contingency table; therefore, the commonly used formulae for such coefficients are more complicated than the actual range of values produced. Other coefficients do differentiate between mutual presences and absences; however, a number of these coefficients do not demonstrate a linear relationship to matrix sparseness. Finally, simulations using nonrandom matrices with known degrees of row-by-row similarities signify that several coefficients either do not display a reasonable range of values or are nonlinear with respect to known relationships within the data. Analyses with nonrandom matrices yield clues as to the utility of certain coefficients for specific applications. For example, coefficients such as Jaccard, Dice, and Baroni-Urbani and Buser are useful if correction of sparseness is desired, whereas the Russell-Rao coefficient is useful when sparseness correction is not desired.
OPTICAL-POTENTIAL CALCULATION OF ELECTRON--HYDROGEN SINGLET SCATTERING.

The use of the optical potential or self-energy of the single-particle Green's function for elastic electronatom scattering is discussed. The usual formalism, which assumes an unperturbed state described by a single determinant, is generalized to include unperturbed states described by a linear combination of determinants. Calculations are carried out for $S$-wave, elastic, singlet scattering of electrons by hydrogen atoms. The results are compared with the accurate variational calculations by Schwartz.
Predictors of Posttraumatic Stress and Growth Among Black and White Survivors of Hurricane Katrina: Does Perceived Quality of the Governmental Response Matter?

Data from the Baseline Survey of the Hurricane Katrina Community Advisory Group Study (Kessler 2009) were used to explore the predictors of posttraumatic growth and posttraumatic stress among black (n = 265) and white (n = 715) adult survivors of Hurricane Katrina. We focus on the perceived quality of the governmental response and cognitive processing related to the response on posttraumatic outcomes, and whether there were racial group differences. We also consider the impact of demographic factors and severity of stress. Results of hierarchical linear regression showed that being black, older, having lower educational attainment, and experiencing greater perceived stress and loss during Katrina positively predicted greater posttraumatic growth. Being female, living below the poverty line, and experiencing greater perceived stress and loss positively predicted posttraumatic stress symptoms. More positive views of the governmental response were associated with greater posttraumatic growth and more negative views with greater posttraumatic stress symptomology. Moreover, it was found that race significantly moderated the effect between perceived quality of the response and posttraumatic stress. Subgroup analysis corroborated the interaction effect and showed that while perceived quality of the governmental response significantly predicted posttraumatic stress for black survivors, it was not a significant predictor for white survivors. This study sheds light on some of the factors and conditions under which positive and negative post-trauma outcomes occurred after Katrina. We propose that racial group differences in the impact of perceived quality of the response on posttraumatic stress may be related to views among some black survivors that the emergency response was discriminatory.
Two dimensional velocity inversion of the acoustic wave equation

Abstract In this paper we use non-linear least squares theory and the Levenberg-Marquardt method of solution, to invert in the time domain, full wavefield observations for two dimensional acoustic velocity variation. The singular Velue decomposition of the linearized problems' Jacobian allows for the determination of the portions of parameter space that have been well or poorly resolved. Numerical examples are given.
P1-S4.09 Validation of the HEDIS measure of sexual activity in adolescents

Background The proportion of sexually active young women who are screened annually for chlamydia is a Health Plan Employer Data and Information Set (HEDIS) performance measure. The accuracy of this measure, however, depends critically on how the denominator is calculated (ie, how many sexually active young women for whom screening is indicated). Few studies have assessed whether the measure is valid. Validating is difficult because sexual activity may not be routinely captured in the chart or other administrative data sources. Our objective was to determine the sensitivity and specificity of the HEDIS measure of sexual activity, by comparing it to a self-reported measure, and assess whether these vary by age, age of first sex, and prior sexually transmitted infection (STI) or pregnancy. Methods Participants were 14−17-year old, non-pregnant, English-speaking females from three low-income urban clinics enrolled in a longitudinal study of STI epidemiology among young women (N=387). Self-reported age of sexual debut was collected during a baseline and quarterly face-to-face interviews. Electronic medical record (EMR) data from the participants9 clinics were linked to study data in order to compare the calculated number of sexually active participants using EMR data (as defined by HEDIS) to self-reported sexual debut using study data. We calculated the sensitivity and specificity of HEDIS criteria of sexual activity, using self-reported sexual activity as the gold standard, accounting for repeated visits per individual. We also calculated the sensitivity and specificity stratified by age, age of first sex, prior STI, and prior pregnancy. Results Overall, the sensitivity and specificity of the HEDIS criteria were 91.4% and 46.0%, respectively. These measures varied significantly by prior STI and age of presentation, and less so by prior pregnancy and age of sexual debut (Abstract P1-S4.09 table 1). Conclusions These data indicate that the measure has good overall sensitivity but that sensitivity and specificity vary significantly based on age and sexual history. The sensitivity and specificity of the HEDIS denominator indicating sexual activity directly influences the accuracy of reported chlamydia screening rates. Thus, depending on the population, this indicator may be an inaccurate indication of sexual activity and poor measure of healthcare performance.
Using Technology to Promote Postpartum Weight Loss in Urban, Low-Income Mothers: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Objective: To examine the feasibility, acceptability,and initial efficacy of a technology-based weight loss intervention for urban, low-income mothers. Methods: Eighteen obese, ethnic minority, socioeconomically disadvantaged mothers in the first year after childbirth were randomly assigned to either: 1) technology-based intervention, which included empirically supported behavior-change strategies, daily skills, and self-monitoring text messages with personalized feedback, biweekly counseling calls from a health coach, and access to a Facebook support group, or 2) usual-care control. Results: After 14 weeks of treatment, the technology-based intervention participants had significantly greater weight loss (� 2.9 � 3.6 kg) than usual care (0.5 � 2.3 kg; adjusted mean difference: � 3.2 kg, 95% confidence interval � 6.2 to � 0.1 kg, P ¼ .04). One-third of intervention participants (3 of 9) and no control participants lost > 5% of their initial body weight at follow up. Conclusions and Implications: Results suggest the potential for using technology to deliver a postpartum weight loss intervention among low-income racial/ethnic minorities.
Ischemic Acute Renal Failure

Underperfusion of the kidneys often results in the development of ischemic acute renal failure. This review summarizes the recent developments in the understanding of the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of this serious and costly disorder that affects almost 5% of hospitalized patients.
Hydrogen Dissociation on Pd4S Surfaces

Exposure of Pd-based hydrogen purification membranes to H2S, a common contaminant in coal gasification streams, can cause membrane performance to deteriorate, either by deactivating surface sites r...
Factors associated with fetal demise in fetal echogenic bowel.

Abstract Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine risk factors associated with intrauterine fetal demise in fetuses with unexplained echogenic bowel that is diagnosed in the second trimester. Study Design: A retrospective case-control study compared fetuses with echogenic bowel and fetal demise with fetuses with echogenic bowel who were live born. Fetuses affected with cystic fibrosis, aneuploidy, or congenital infection and fetuses diagnosed with major anomalies were excluded. Variables examined in the determination of risk factors for intrauterine fetal demise included intrauterine growth restriction, oligohydramnios, elevated maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein levels, and elevated maternal serum β-hCG levels. Statistical analysis was performed with the Fisher exact test, Student t test, and logistic regression analysis. Results: One hundred fifty-six fetuses met the inclusion criteria. There were 9 cases of intrauterine fetal demise and 147 live born control fetuses. The median gestational age of intrauterine fetal demise was 22.0 weeks (range, 17-39 weeks). Intrauterine growth restriction occurred more frequently in cases of intrauterine fetal demise than in live born infants (22.2% vs 0.7%; P =.009), as did oligohydramnios (44.4% vs 2.0%; P
Impact of anaerobic soil disinfestation combined with soil solarization on plant–parasitic nematodes and introduced inoculum of soilborne plant pathogens in raised-bed vegetable production

Abstract A two-year field study was established in August 2008 at the USDA-ARS, U.S. Horticultural Research Laboratory in Fort Pierce, FL to examine the impact of anaerobic soil disinfestation (ASD) combined with soil solarization as an alternative to methyl bromide (MeBr) fumigation for control of plant–parasitic nematodes and introduced inoculum of soilborne plant pathogens. A complete factorial experiment in a split-split plot was established to evaluate three levels of applied initial irrigation (10, 5, or 0 cm), two levels of partially-composted poultry litter (CPL; amended or unamended), and two levels of molasses (amended or unamended) in combination with solarization in a raised-bed bell pepper-eggplant double crop production system. Untreated and MeBr controls were established in each block for comparison to ASD treatments. Survival of Phytophthora capsici inoculum, introduced prior to ASD treatment, was equal to that with MeBr and less than the untreated control for all solarized treatments regardless of applied soil amendments during both seasons. Survival of introduced inoculum of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici was least (and equivalent to the MeBr control) in treatments with applied molasses during the second season. While endemic plant-parasitic nematode populations were generally low throughout the first season, by the end of the second eggplant double crop, root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) populations in treatments not receiving molasses and/or CPL (solarization only) or not receiving irrigation at treatment averaged more than 200 nematodes per 100 cm3 of soil compared to an average of 10 nematodes per 100 cm3 in ASD treatments where molasses or molasses + CPL was applied and irrigated with 5 or 10 cm of water. Anaerobic soil disinfestation combined with solarization may provide an alternative to chemical soil fumigation for control of soilborne plant pathogens and plant–parasitic nematodes in Florida raised-bed vegetable production systems.
Thermal polymerization of methyl linolenate, alpha‐ and beta‐eleostearates

The rates of polymerization of alpha and beta eleostearates agree with second order kinetics, as would be expected for a bimolecular Diels-Alder addition. The all-trans, beta isomer reacts faster than thecis, trans, trans alpha isomer, in agreement with knowncis, trans effects on diene activity.
A concept analysis of situational awareness in nursing.

Aim This article reports an analysis of the concept of situational awareness in nursing. Background Situational awareness is a fundamental and well-understood concept used to maintain operational safety in high reliability organizations; however, it has not been studied in nursing. Nurses play a critical role in providing vigilance in health care and what they do or fail to do is directly related to patient outcomes. Data sources Multiple databases, including PubMed, CINAHL, JSTOR, and Google Scholar, were searched with the term, ‘situational awareness’. The primary search, used to identify all uses of the concept, did not employ date criteria. A secondary search for articles measuring situational awareness as an independent or dependent variable was completed using 2009–2011 articles. Design Concept Analysis. Review methods The concept of situational awareness was examined using Walker and Avant's eight step method of analysis. Results Three defining attributes of situational awareness include perception, comprehension, and projection. Situational awareness is defined as the perception of the elements in the environment in a volume of time and space, the comprehension of their meaning and the projection of their status in the near future. Although situational awareness is related to other terms in nursing, there is increasing recognition that the concept, which is likely a consolidation of the related terms, has an impact on healthcare professionals. Conclusion Failures in perception, comprehension, and/or projection can significantly reduce the accuracy and appropriateness of patient care decisions. Therefore, as a precursor to decision making, poor or inadequate levels of situational awareness present serious threats to patient safety. Situational awareness needs to be examined in a theoretical context, studied systematically and openly recognized as a key factor in the delivery of safe patient care.
Acquired Conditions That Lead to Osteoarthritis in the Dog

There are many acquired arthopathies that will result in some degree of osteoarthritis, even after proper management. Once the articular cartilage is damaged, it is unlikely that the architecture of the original cartilage surface will return to the normal conditions that existed prior to injury. The purpose of timely and meticulous management of traumatic joint events is to stop the progression of osteoarthritic development. When dealing with articular fractures or other forms of trauma to articular cartilage, three important principles to remember are anatomic reduction of the articular surfaces, stable fixation, and limited weight bearing on the affected limb as soon as possible after surgery. Even after strict adherence to these principles, the pet owner should always be warned that the animal will develop some degree of osteoarthritis in the affected joint at some future time; at that time, chronic medical management may be indicated.
USP Dissolution Test II: Sigmoid Dissolution Profiles from Directly Compressed Tablets

The basic steps involved in the dissolution of a directly compressed tablet in a USP basket dissolution apparatus were examined via data generation. The proposed model explains why a dissolution curve can be sigmoid shaped and why the portion past the lag time has a loglinear undissolved mass versus time correlation.
In Vitro Degradation of Bone Particles by Human Monocytes Is Decreased with the Depletion of the Vitamin K-Dependent Bone Protein from the Matrix*

The bone vitamin K-dependent protein osteocalcin has been suggested to play a role in bone resorption. By administering sodium warfarin to rats, it is possible to inhibit the vitamin K-dependent addition of the their gamma-carboxyglutamic acid residues to osteocalcin. This results in reduced amounts of osteocalcin bone, probably because devoid of the calcium-binding Gla residues, the protein no longer accumulates in bone. Preparations of bone obtained from rats treated with sodium warfarin for 6 weeks contained only 0.2% of normal levels of osteocalcin and were 90% reduced in the concentration of Gla. This bone could not be degraded by human monocytes in vitro as well as control bone (only 54% of control; P less than 0.003). Defects in the movement of cells to the bone were documented by phase contrast microscopy. Only 60% as many monocytes attached to the osteocalcin-depleted bone as to control bone in an in vitro attachment assay. These effects do not appear to be related to direct cellular toxicity. The degradation of bone in this in vitro system appears to be dependent on the osteocalcin content in matrix. This may result from defective movement of cells to bone and/or attachment to the bone.
Short-term outcome of equine emergency admissions at a university referral hospital.

Summary Reasons for performing study: Obtaining data on emergency admission survival rates is important to provide clients with an estimate of prognosis and to identify areas in which improvements in case management can be achieved. Objective: To determine the short-term outcome of equine emergency admissions to a university referral hospital during a 12 month period. Methods: Short-term outcome was defined as survival to discharge or died/euthanasia during hospitalisation. The overall death (euthanasia) rate was calculated; and rate for horses with different categories of: age; admission month, day and time; presenting complaint (PC); duration of clinical signs prior to presentation; clinical pathology abnormalities; and therapy/therapeutic-related procedures performed was recorded. Results: There were 918 admissions. The overall death rate was 24%. Foals (34%) and geriatric (40%) subjects had a death rate that was higher than that for mature horses (21%, referent). The death rate was highest in March (37%). Horses with a PC categorised as neurological (46%) or neonatal (41%) had the highest and as ophthalmological (5%) or trauma/skin (13%) the lowest death rates. There was no difference in death rate between different admission days or times or the duration of clinical signs prior to presentation. The death rates for horses with abnormal peritoneal fluid (71%), coagulopathy (63%), acid-base abnormalities (52%), hypoproteinaemia (47%), dehydration (43%), hypoxia/hypercapnia (48%), leucopenia (44%), electrolyte abnormalities (39%), hyperlactataemia (39%) or azotaemia (35%) were high. The death rate for horses treated with intranasal oxygen (57%), plasma (34%) or polymixin B (35%) was high and for horses undergoing laceration repair/joint (0%) or synovial cavity lavage (4%) was low. Conclusions: Age and critical illness were important contributing factors to a higher death rate. Potential relevance: Improving the understanding of disease processes in and developing treatment strategies for neonatal and geriatric patients as well as critically ill patients is required.
Redefining the focus of investment analysts

Compares and contrasts the organizational routines and outcomes of businesses that are managed using practices grounded in batch‐and‐queue and lean production. The former is shown to be poor at providing senior management with timely and accurate information, thus obscuring or altering business realities, while the latter results in greater clarity and improved responsiveness to changing market conditions. It proposes that the primary work of the investment analyst should change to “muda analyst”, whose focus is the elimination of waste in business processes between internal and external stakeholders, while the traditional work of investment analysts is positioned as a secondary activity. Identifies different types of questions to ask senior management in order to assess the underlying business and leadership practices.
Vortex shedding induced energy harvesting from piezoelectric materials in heating, ventilation and air conditioning flows

A cantilevered piezoelectric beam is excited in a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) flow. This excitation is amplified by the interactions between (a) an aerodynamic fin attached at the end of the piezoelectric cantilever and (b) the vortex shedding downstream from a bluff body placed in the air flow ahead of the fin/cantilever assembly. The positioning of small weights along the fin enables tuning of the energy harvester to operate at resonance for flow velocities from 2 to 5 m s−1, which are characteristic of HVAC ducts. In a 15 cm diameter air duct, power generation of 200 μW for a flow speed of 2.5 m s−1 and power generation of 3 mW for a flow speed of 5 m s−1 was achieved. These power outputs are sufficient to power a wireless sensor node for HVAC monitoring systems or other sensors for smart building technology.
Digital Ischemic Loss in Systemic Sclerosis

Digital ischemic loss is a cause of significant morbidity in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Microvascular disease with intimal proliferation and luminal narrowing of small digital arteries, as well as macrovascular disease with narrowing or occlusion of larger digital arteries, contribute to the perfusion defects involved in digital ischemic loss. Immediate clinical evaluation and treatment are mandatory at the onset of critical digital ischemia to prevent digital loss. Hospitalization for medical therapies including intravenous prostacyclin therapy should be considered for all SSc patients who present with critical digital ischemia. Surgical interventions are typically reserved for patients who fail medical therapies and for those with late stage, necrotic tissue. This paper summarizes the current knowledge regarding the risk factors, pathogenesis, evaluation, and treatment of digital ischemic loss in SSc.
Long-term ventilatory support in spinal muscular atrophy

Before ethical issues regarding prolonging life in patients with degenerative disease can be considered, the quality of life with medical intervention must be delineated. We have followed 15 patients with spinal muscular atrophy who have been treated with mechanical ventilation. They have received assisted ventilation for an average of 8 years 10 months (range 5 months to 23 years 10 months). Three of the patients required full-time ventilator assistance at the time of initiation of ventilation; the remaining 12 used nighttime ventilation for an average of 8 years 7 months. Nine patients continue to receive nighttime ventilation only. Two patients died after 5 years and 14 years of assisted ventilation, respectively. Of the 10 patients more than 18 years of age, three graduated from college, two are in college, three graduated from high school, and two completed eleventh grade. One patient is a mother of a healthy child. Two patients are employed, and two others have found fulfilling volunteer work. Ventilator support has not significantly interfered with these patients' plans and expectations.
Intrinsic and extrinsic control of haematopoietic stem-cell self-renewal

When stem cells divide, they can generate progeny with the same developmental potential as the original cell, a process referred to as self-renewal. Self-renewal is driven intrinsically by gene expression in a cell-type-specific manner and is modulated through interactions with extrinsic cues from the environment, such as growth factors. However, despite the prevalence of the term self-renewal in the scientific literature, this process has not been defined at the molecular level. Haematopoietic stem cells are an excellent model for the study of self-renewal because they can be isolated prospectively, manipulated relatively easily and assessed by using well-defined assays. Establishing the principles of self-renewal in haematopoietic stem cells will lead to insights into the mechanisms of self-renewal in other tissues.
The effects of acute cocaine administration on auditory event-related potentials in rats☆

Cocaine administration has been shown to affect several sites in the limbic forebrain. The nucleus accumbens has been implicated as an important site for the reinforcing aspects of this drug whereas, the amygdala and hippocampus may be more involved in drug conditioning and/or drug induced changes in the perception of stimuli. In the present study, auditory event-related potentials (ERPs) were utilized to explore the effects of cocaine on sensory processing in several limbic sites. Eleven adult male Wistar rats were stereotaxically implanted with electrodes aimed at the dentate gyrus, dorsal hippocampus (CA1-CA2), amygdala, and nucleus accumbens. The rats received intraperitoneal injections of either saline, 2.5, 5.0, 10.0 or 20 mg/kg of cocaine. The ERPs were recorded in response to an auditory 'oddball' paradigm consisting of frequently and infrequently presented tones. Cocaine was found to produce a dose dependent decrease in the variance of the amplitude of several ERP components in the amygdala and the hippocampal formation but not in the nucleus accumbens. Cocaine also produced a decrease in the latency of the N1 component in the amygdala. No significant changes were observed in the amplitude of the ERP components following any of the cocaine doses studied, suggesting that cocaine may not increase the salience of auditory stimuli in these structures. The observed reduction in the variance of the ERPs may suggest an increased focussing of the animals' attention to the auditory stimuli. These studies also suggest that the sensory/cognitive aspects involved in cocaine's actions, as quantified by ERPs, may primarily involve the hippocampal formation and the amygdala, but not the nucleus accumbens.
Oxygen consumption of the common Indian cattle leech Poecilobdella granulosa in relation to osmotic stress.

Abstract 1. 1. The fresh-water leech Poecilobdella granulosa survives for prolonged periods in a salinity of 11·65% when adapted gradually. 2. 2. The total osmotic pressure and different inorganic constituents of the body fluid have been estimated in normal leeches and in leeches exposed to different salinities. The leeches are isotonic with the medium when they are in 25% sea water. 3. 3. The leeches show minimal O2 consumption in 25% sea water and maximal O2 consumption in 50% sea water. The pattern of metabolic response to salinity appears to be closely related to the osmotic gradient between the body fluid and the medium. The direction of osmotic gradient influences the metabolic response to salinity stress.
Maternal Depressive Symptoms and Healthcare Expenditures for Publicly Insured Children with Chronic Health Conditions

This study estimated the prevalence of maternal depressive symptoms and tested associations between maternal depressive symptoms and healthcare utilization and expenditures among United States publicly insured children with chronic health conditions (CCHC). A total of 6,060 publicly insured CCHC from the 2004–2009 Medical Expenditure Panel Surveys were analyzed using negative binomial models to compare healthcare utilization for CCHC of mothers with and without depressive symptoms. Annual healthcare expenditures for both groups were compared using a two-part model with a logistic regression and generalized linear model. The prevalence of depressive symptoms among mothers with CCHC was 19 %. There were no differences in annual healthcare utilization for CCHC of mothers with and without depressive symptoms. Maternal depressive symptoms were associated with greater odds of ED expenditures [odds ratio (OR) 1.26; 95 % CI 1.03–1.54] and lesser odds of dental expenditures (OR 0.81; 95 % CI 0.66–0.98) and total expenditures (OR 0.71; 95 % CI 0.51–0.98). Children of symptomatic mothers had lower predicted outpatient expenditures and higher predicted expenditures for total health, prescription medications, dental care; and office based, inpatient and ED visits. Mothers with CCHC were more likely to report depressive symptoms than were mothers with children without chronic health conditions. There were few differences in annual healthcare utilization and expenditures between CCHC of mothers with and without depressive symptoms. However, having a mother with depressive symptoms was associated with higher ED expenditures and higher predicted healthcare expenditures in a population of children who comprise over three-fourths of the top decile of Medicaid spending.
Photoeffect in junction field effect transistors with drift velocity saturation

Abstract Photocurrents in junction field effect transistors under homogeneous illumination are analyzed theoretically taking into account drift velocity saturation by (i) the Trofimenkoff approximation, and (ii) an abrupt transition from a linear velocity-field relation to saturation. With the drain biased into saturation, the source current decreases more steeply with illumination than the drain current increases, the assymetry being a function of saturation drift velocity. At high illumination intensities drain current saturates with illumination intensity.
Knowledge management-centric help desk: specification and performance evaluation

The technology help desk function has grown in importance as information technology has proliferated throughout the organization. The primary objective of the help desk is to resolve problems related to IT in the organization. As such, the agents in the help desk must be very knowledgeable of the information systems, applications, and technologies supported. Most efforts at improving help desk performance have been to make the current system more efficient through application of information technologies. In this paper we propose a new approach, called a knowledge management-centric help desk. The proposed knowledge management system draws upon diverse knowledge sources in the organization including databases, files, experts, knowledge bases, and group chats. The knowledge management system is designed to be incorporated into the daily operation of the help desk in order to ensure high utilization and maintenance of the knowledge stores. The benefits of the knowledge management-centric help desk are evaluated using a simulation study with actual data from a help desk. The experimental results indicate the knowledge management-centric approach would significantly reduce the time to resolve problems and improve the throughput of the help desk.
WOMEN SOCIOLOGISTS IN THE MIDWEST: A STATUS UPDATE

In this article, an earlier study of the status of academic women sociologists in the Midwest that was extended to 1984–1985 is discussed. Type of appointment, rank, and chairpersons, as well as position in a Ph.D. rather than an M.A. program were used in the study as indicators of employment status. Midwest Sociological Society (MSS) leadership positions and participation in the annual MSS meeting served as indicators of professional participation. The results show that gains in employment status for women slowed in the 1980s. Employment of women in sociology department positions, especially in full-time positions and higher ranks, continued to lag behind the proportion of women Ph.D.s in the field. Women were overrepresented in the secondary labor market of part-time employment. However, women are now almost as likely to be employed in Ph.D. as well as M.A. programs. While gains in employment status generally slowed, professional participation has accellerated in recent years. Possible explanations for the differential penetrability of the two realms are offered. The appropriateness of statistical parity as a standard for evaluating equality in academic employment also is discussed. This article proposes that structural barriers to employment equity for women may not be more significant than direct discrimination.
Image recovery by convex projections using a least-squares constraint

We introduce a new convex constraint for image recovery using the method of projection onto convex sets. The set of least-squares solutions to the image-recovery problem is shown to form a convex set. The projection operator onto this set is presented. The resulting least-squares projection method is shown to provide improved performance over conventional projection techniques.
Interfacial transient thermal fracture of adhesively bonded dissimilar materials

The effect of a transient thermal load on an interface crack in adhesively bonded dissimilar materials was experimentally studied by using photothermoelasticity. It is determined that the effect of the thermal load is to cause mostly shearing deformations at the crack tip. For two configurations, a horizontal crack (normal to the heat flow direction) and a vertical crack (parallel to the heat flow direction), it is shown that increasing the adhesive thickness results in steady-state and maximum transient strain-energy release rates and stress-intensity factors of smaller magnitudes. It is also found that the ratio of mode I to mode II stressintensity factors for the vertical crack is larger than the one for the horizontal crack.
Reduction of the incidence and severity of collagen-induced arthritis by constitutive Nur77 expression in the T cell lineage.

Objective To test the hypothesis that constitutive expression of Nur77 in the T cell lineage will suppress the development and pathogenesis of collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) and to understand the mechanisms by which Nur77 overexpression influences the arthritogenic response to type II collagen (CII). Methods Nur77-transgenic and wild-type C57BL/6 mice were immunized with CII and were monitored for the development and severity of arthritis. Pathologic changes were examined by histology and radiography. The effects of Nur77 overexpression on immune responses were evaluated by cytokine production in vitro and serum levels of CII-specific antibodies. Sensitivity of T cells to apoptosis induction was analyzed in vitro following stimulation with anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody or glucocorticoid. Results The incidence and severity of CIA was significantly decreased in Nur77-transgenic mice compared with wild-type controls. Attenuation of the disease was associated with increased apoptosis induction in transgenic T cells and decreased production of CII-specific IgG2a antibodies in transgenic mice. Overexpression of Nur77 in the T cell compartment did not affect Th1/Th2 cytokine production or balance. Conclusion Nur77 overexpression in the T cell lineage attenuates the development and progression of CIA, probably by promoting activation-induced T cell apoptosis and by inhibiting CII-specific antibody production.
Global Dynamics of Some Periodically Forced, Monotone Difference Equations ∗

We study a class of periodically forced, monotone difference equations motivated by applications from population dynamics. We give conditions under which there exists a globally attracting cycle and conditions under which the attracting cycle is attenuant
A Rhetorical Reading of Smith's Book in THE LONELINESS OF THE LONG-DISTANCE RUNNER

Grouped with Britain's “angry young men” generation of writers, Alan Sillitoe's fictions explore the resentment of the post–World War II working class toward the middle and upper classes. “The Lone...