cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Symptomatic Pneumorrhachis After an Epidural Blood Patch

Abstract Background Pneumorrhachis (PR), the presence of air within the spinal canal, is a rare, radiologic epiphenomenon arising from traumatic, nontraumatic, and iatrogenic causes. Often asymptomatic, PR is usually managed conservatively. However, PR can be associated with underlying serious pathology and can become symptomatic, requiring more aggressive diagnostic and treatment modalities from the treating physician. Although well known in the anesthesia literature, this case report is the first in the emergency medicine literature to describe iatrogenic, symptomatic PR presenting in the emergency department (ED). Case Report A 34-year-old woman presented to the ED with a postural puncture headache after epidural anesthesia for a vaginal delivery. An epidural blood patch was administered, after which the patient acutely developed cervical radicular pain. Computed tomography angiography of the head and neck revealed epidural PR. Conservative treatment with analgesia, intravenous fluids, and bed rest was administered. Her pain improved significantly, and at 5-month follow-up, she remained symptom-free. Why Should an Emergency Physician Be Aware of This? PR is a rare and usually benign disease, especially in the setting of an iatrogenic cause such as lumbar puncture. However, in traumatic settings, PR in the intradural space should alert the emergency physician to search for underlying serious pathology if it has not already been found. Finally, PR can become symptomatic, and treatment will depend on the severity of symptoms.
Bacterial endocarditis associated with atrial septal defect of the ostium secundum type.

Abstract The clinical and necropsy findings in a 23-month-old infant with an atrial septal defect of the ostium secundum type, complicated by bacterial endocarditis, are presented. A massive vegetation was located on the pulmonic valve and communicated with a mycotic aneurysm in the wall of the right ventricular outflow tract. These lesions were almost identical to those described in the first reported case of endocarditis with ostium secundum defect. Three other cases recorded in the literature are reviewed. Patients with large secundum atrial delect are not prone to the development of bacterial endocarditis, although there is evidence for hemodynamic turbulence and possible trauma to the valves of the right heart. It is suggested that additional deformities of the mitral and tricuspid valves may increase the susceptibility of patients with atrial septal defect to bacterial endocarditis.
Ion transport by heart mitochondria. The effects of Cu2+ on membrane permeability

Abstract Cu 2+ binds to protein-binding sites in the membrane of the isolated heart mitochondrion with high affinity. The binding of from 5 to 10 nmoles of Cu 2+ per milligram of protein results in a number of alterations in membrane properties. These include increased passive permeability to both cations and anions, increased energy-dependent cation uptake under the appropriate conditions, increased ATPase activity, uncoupling of phosphorylation, and inhibition of the phosphate transport system. The effect of Cu 2+ on respiration in vitro depends upon which of the above listed effects of Cu 2+ on the membrane predominate under the conditions of measurement. A given amount of Cu 2+ is more effective in altering membrane properties in energized as opposed to nonrespiring or uncoupled mitochondria. It appears that Cu 2+ is able to react with and alter certain crucial sites in the membrane which control permeability to ions and that this alteration occurs more rapidly in the presence than in the absence of metabolic energy.
General Purpose Heuristics for Integer Programming—Part II

In spite of the many special purpose heuristics for specific classes of integer programming (IP) problems, there are few developments that focus on general purpose integer programming heuristics. This stems partly from the perception that general purpose methods are likely to be less effective than specialized procedures for specific problems, and partly from the perception that there is no unifying theoretical basis for creating general purpose heuristics. Still, there is a general acknowledgment that methods which are not limited to solving IP problems on a “class by class” basis, but which apply to a broader range of problems, have significant value. We provide a theoretical framework and associated explicit proposals for generating general purpose IP heuristics. Our development, makes use of cutting plane derivations that also give a natural basis for marrying heuristics with exact branch and cut methods for integer programming problems.
Community mental health: Training program in a School of Public Health

The “new look” implied by the label community mental health is understood by many to mean the adoption of a public health approach to mental health. In this paper, a psychologist outlines the salient elements in such an approach as embodied in a community mental health training program located for a decade at the Harvard School of Public Health. To make the role transition from traditional mental health clinician to community mental health worker, it may be mandatory to become familiar with the theoretical models, principles of practice, and specific research tools of the public health profession. Since only a few can arrange to undertake formal training at schools of public health, it is hoped that each mental health discipline will increasingly include exposure to key public health concepts in its own professional training program.
Large motion mountain biking dynamics

A bond graph model of a mountain bike and rider is created to develop baseline predictions for the performance of mountain bikes during large excursion maneuvers such as drops, jumps, crashes and rough terrain riding. The model assumes planar dynamics, a hard-tail (front suspension only) bicycle and a rider fixed to the bicycle. An algorithm is developed to allow tracking of a virtual tire-ground contact point for events that separate the wheels from the ground. This model would be most applicable to novice mountain bikers who maintain a nearly rigid relationship between their body and the bicycle as opposed to experienced riders who are versed in controlling the bicycle independent of the body. Simulations of a steep drop are performed for various initial conditions to qualitatively validate the predictions of the model. Results from this model are to be compared to experimental data and more complex models in later research, particularly models including a separate rider. The overarching goals of the re...
Effects of a 5-HT1A receptor agonist on acute and delayed cyclophosphamide-induced vomiting.

Abstract LY228729 [(−)-4(dipropylamino)-1,3,4,5-tetrahydrobenz-{c,d}indole-6-carboxamide}], an agonist at the 5-HT 1A subtype of 5-HT receptor, was studied as an antiemetic in pigeons dosed with a highly emetic oncolytic agent, cyclophosphamide. An intramuscular injection of 0.32 mg/kg of LY228729 administered 15 min prior to the intravenous injection of 200 mg/kg of cyclophosphamide totally prevented the acute emetic response induced by cyclophosphamide. When used as a rescue therapy in a separate group of pigeons, LY228729 (0.32 mg/kg, i.m.) prevented further emetic episodes when it was administered after vomiting had already been induced by cyclophosphamide. Injections of LY228729 given at intervals over the next 2 d also attenuated the delayed emetic response induced by cyclophosphamide. LY228729 appears to be a broad spectrum antiemetic agent that is effective against the anticipatory, the acute and the delayed stages of emesis induced by oncolytic agents.
Structural patterns and tectonic history of the Bauer microplate, Eastern Tropical Pacific

The Bauer microplate was an independent slab of oceanic lithosphere that from 17 Ma to 6 Ma grew from 1.4 × 105 km2 to 1.2 × 106 km2 between the rapidly diverging Pacific and Nazca plates. Growth was by accretion at the lengthening and overlapping axes of the (Bauer-Nazca) Galapagos Rise (GR) and the (Pacific-Bauer) East Pacific Rise (EPR). EPR and GR axial propagation to create and rapidly grow the counter-clockwise spinning microplate occurred in two phases: (1) 17–15Ma, when the EPR axis propagated north and the GR axis propagated south around a narrow (100- to 200-km-wide) core of older lithosphere; and (2) 8–6 Ma, when rapid northward propagation of the EPR axis resumed, overlapping ∼400 km of the fast-spreading Pacific-Nazca rise-crest and appending a large (200- to 400-km-wide) area of the west flank of that rise as a ‘northern annex’ to the microplate. Between 15 and 8 Ma the microplate grew principally by crustal accretion at the crest of its rises. The microplate was captured by the Nazca plate and the Galapagos Rise axis became extinct soon after 6 Ma, when the south end of the Pacific-Bauer EPR axis became aligned with the southern Pacific-Nazca EPR axis and its north end was linked by the Quebrada Transform to the northern Pacific-Nazca EPR axis. Incomplete multibeam bathymetry of the microplate margins, and of both flanks of the Pacific-Bauer and Bauer-Nazca Rises, together with archival magnetic and satellite altimetry data, clarifies the growth and (counter-clockwise) rotation of the microplate, and tests tectonic models derived from studies of the still active, much smaller, Easter and Juan Fernandez microplates. Our interpretations differ from model predictions in that Euler poles were not located on the microplate boundary, propagation in the 15–8 Ma phase of growth was not toward these poles, and microplate rotation rates were small (5°/m.y.) for much of its history, when long, bounding transform faults reduced coupling to Nazca plate motion. Some structures of the Bauer microplate boundary, such as deep rift valleys and a broad zone of thrust-faulted lithosphere, are, however, similar to those observed around the smaller, active microplates. Analysis of how the Bauer microplate was captured when coupling to the Pacific plate was reduced invites speculation on why risecrest microplates eventually lose their independence.
A classification scheme for algorithm citation function in scholarly works

Algorithms are ubiquitous in the computer science literature. A search engine for algorithms has been tested as part of the CiteseerX suite; however, it only retrieves algorithms whose metadata is textually matched with the search query. Such a limitation occurs because a traditional search engine does not have the ability to understand what algorithms are and how they work. Here, we present an initial effort in understanding the semantics of algorithms. Specifically, we identify how an existing algorithm can be used in scholarly works and propose a classification scheme for algorithm function.
Serotonin Rising — The Bone, Brain, Bowel Connection

A recent article elucidated the regulation of gut-produced serotonin by low-density lipoprotein receptor–related protein 5 and the deleterious effect of serotonin on bone mass. Dr. Clifford Rosen writes that this discovery reflects the rapid advances taking place in bone biology and lends support to newly understood facts about skeletal physiology.
Mammary gland tumors in male dogs.

Background: Reports of mammary-gland tumors in male dogs are lacking. Objective: To describe the clinical characteristics of mammary-gland tumors in male dogs. Animals: Eight male dogs diagnosed with mammary-gland tumors. Methods: Retrospective study. Medical databases from 3 institutions were searched. Medical records were abstracted, and owners and referring veterinarians contacted for follow-up information. Tissues were reviewed for histologic type, and immunohistochemical staining for estrogen and progesterone receptors (ER, PR) was performed. Results: Eight dogs with histologically confirmed mammary-gland tumors were included in this retrospective study. Median age at diagnosis was 11.5 years. Four dogs were sexually intact; 4 were neutered. All were purebred. Mammary-gland tumors were incidental findings in 7 of 8 dogs. All dogs were treated with only surgical excision. All but 1 dog had benign epithelial tumors. The dog with the malignant tumor was the only dog to develop possible local recurrence but de novo tumor development cannot be excluded. No dog had evidence of metastatic disease at diagnosis. Based on institutional population data, it was determined that female dogs are 62 times more likely to develop mammary-gland tumors than male dogs (P < .001). Estrogen-receptor expression was strong in the majority of tumors; progesterone-receptor expression, although present in all tumors, was less intense. Conclusions/Clinical Importance: This study suggests that mammary-gland tumors in male dogs are rare, usually benign, and surgery alone can provide long-term control in most dogs.
Pigmented Epidermal Cyst

The pigmented epidermal cyst (black keratinous cyst) is peculiar to the Negro race. Ninety-seven % of our cases occurred in Negroes. Thirty-seven % of the epidermal cysts in Negroes were heavily pigmented. A relationship between the black keratinous cyst and hemochromatosis has been proposed. A change in the degree of pigmentation is more significant than the histologic demonstration of melanin pigment.
Practical analysis of stripped binary code

Executable binary code is the authoritative source of information about program content and behavior. The compile, link, and optimize steps can cause a program's detailed execution behavior to differ substantially from its source code. Binary code analysis is used to provide information about a program's content and structure, and is therefore a foundation of many applications, including binary modification[3,12,22,31], binary translation[5,29], binary matching[30], performance profiling[13,16,18], debugging, extraction of parameters for performance modeling, computer security[7,8] and forensics[23,26]. Ideally, binary analysis should produce information about the content of the program's code (instructions, basic blocks, functions, and modules), structure (control and data flow), and data structures (global and stack variables). The quality and availability of this information affects applications that rely on binary analysis.
Low-energy (5–80 eV) electron-stimulated desorption of H+ (D+), OH+ (OD+), O+, and NO+ from solution-grown NaNO3 crystals

Abstract Low-energy (5–80 eV) electron-stimulated desorption of H + (D + ), OH + (OD + ), O + , and NO + from solution-grown NaNO 3 crystals is studied by quadrupole and time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Desorption yields and thresholds are reported as a function of incident electron energy and flux. The O + and NO + are degradation products of the NaNO 3 substrate, whereas the H + (D + ) and OH + (OD + ) ions arise primarily from -H(D) and/or -OH(OD) termination sites. The threshold energies indicate that degradation involves Auger-stimulated dissociation of the nitrate group. We associate the ∼24 eV threshold for H + (D + ) desorption with intramolecular decay of a single hole in the O(2s) level of either NaOH(OD), or possibly HNO 3 , terminal groups and the yield increase at ∼33 eV with intermolecular decay of the Na (2p→3s) exciton. We correlate the OH + (OD + ), O + and NO + desorption thresholds at ∼33 eV primarily with excitation of the Na (2p→3s) exciton. Desorption of NO + and O + may also involve intramolecular Auger decay of holes in the 2e′ and/or 3a 1 ′ nitrate valence bands. The H + translational energy distributions peak at ∼5–7.5 eV, and H + dominates the cation desorption yields from solution grown NaNO 3 crystals by a factor of ∼100.
On the Octagonal Structure of the Nuclear Pore Complex: Insights from Coarse-Grained Models

The basic structure of the nuclear pore complex (NPC), conserved across almost all organisms from yeast to humans, persists in featuring an octagonal symmetry involving the nucleoporins that constitute the NPC ring. In this article, we seek to understand and evaluate the potential biomechanical reasons for this eightfold symmetry. Our analytical investigation shows that the eightfold symmetry maximizes the bending stiffness of each of the eight NPC spokes while our computational analyses identify the most likely deformation modes, frequencies, and associated kinetic energies of the NPC. These modes have energies close to other published findings using membrane analysis of the nuclear membrane pore opening, and deformation states in agreement with experimental observations. A better understanding of NPC mechanics is essential for characterizing the nucleocytoplasmic transport, which has a central importance in cell biology.
Some problems in estimating horizontal stress magnitudes in “thrust” regimes

Abstract Since hydraulic fractures exhibit a strong tendency to propagate in a plane normal to the least principal stress, the preferred plane of propagation under thrust stress regime ( S h > S v ) conditions is horizontal. This can lead to complications in applying the hydrofracture stress measurement technique as horizontal fractures do not directly sample the horizontal stress field. Recent experiences in conducting measurements in thrust regimes have highlighted two problems that might be encountered. The first is the possibility of horizontal fracture initiation at the wellbore. The second relates to the seemingly common problem of deciding whether ISIPs which lie close to the estimated overburden reflect least horizontal stress levels (which happen to coincide with Sv) or vertical stress levels (resulting from fracture rotation to a horizontal plane in response to S h > S v ). If the latter is true, then the ISIPs represent only lower bounds to the true values of S h . We present two datasets which have bearing on the two problems noted above. In the first we review measurements conducted in a vertical borehole penetrating granite in which the vast majority of induced fractures were horizontal at the wellbore. Evidence suggests that these fractures were not a result of packer-induced stresses or incipient natural fractures but rather were a consequence of both high horizontal stress levels and fluid infiltration of the wellbore wall during the 15 sec of pump time required to attain breakdown. The absolute magnitudes of the horizontal stresses is not determined. However, through consideration of the elastic stress distribution about a vertical borehole it is possible, in principle, to estimate the horizontal stress difference S H −S h from the horizontal fracture initiation pressure. In the second dataset we present measurements conducted in three boreholes penetrating a sandstone/shale sequence in which the induced fractures were determined to be vertical at the wellbore. However, by modelling the anticipated effects of topography it is clear that the ISIPs above a certain stratigraphic horizon consistently reflect the vertical stress, and not S h . No evidence of dual shut-in pressures, which might provide a measure of the magnitude of the least horizontal stress in these beds, was observed. Neither did the form of the post-shut in pressure decline for these beds display any characteristics that might have served to distinguish them as horizontal fracture controlled. This example shows that the presence of a vertical fracture trace at the wellbore cannot be taken as proof that the ISIP reflects S h .
Preliminary measurements with an automated compact differential absorption lidar for the profiling of water vapor

The design and preliminary tests of an automated differential absorption lidar (DIAL) that profiles water vapor in the lower troposphere are presented. The instrument, named CODI (for compact DIAL), has been developed to be eye safe, low cost, weatherproof, and portable. The lidar design and its unattended operation are described. Nighttime intercomparisons with in situ sensors and a radiosonde are shown. Desired improvements to the lidar, including a more powerful laser, are also discussed.
Bronchial carcinoid tumors in pediatric patients.

Bronchial carcinoid tumors (BCT) are the most frequent primary pulmonary neoplasms of childhood. Seventeen of 208 patients diagnosed as having BCT at the Massachusetts General Hospital were between 10 and 21 years of age. We reviewed our records of the 17 patients and 8 other pediatric cases and compared their findings with those of seven large series of adults. Distribution was equal between the sexes. The average age at diagnosis was 17 years; 4 patients were ≤15 years old. The duration of symptoms prior to diagnosis varied from 2 weeks to 2.6 years, with a median duration of 8.5 months. In contrast to adults, no child was asymptomatic. The majority of children presented with wheezing and atelectasis in addition to the characteristic adult triad of cough, hemoptysis, and pneumonitis. Five patients presented with weight loss and one patient presented with hoarseness. One of the 17 pediatric patients presented with Cushing's syndrome and a functional BCT. Twelve of 14 patients were disease free for 9 months to 34 years after surgical resection. We conclude that BCT should be suspected in children with pneumonitis resistant to therapy, atelectasis, wheezing, and hemoptysis. Surgical resection will result in symptom-free recovery in the majority of cases in spite of low-grade malignancy.
A hierarchical framework for estimating neuroretinal rim area using 3D spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) optic nerve head (ONH) images of healthy and glaucoma eyes

Glaucoma is a chronic neurodegenerative disease characterized by loss of retinal ganglion cells, resulting in distinctive changes in the optic nerve head (ONH) and retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL). Important advances in technology for non-invasive imaging of the eye have been made providing quantitative tools to measure structural changes in ONH topography, a crucial step in diagnosing and monitoring glaucoma. 3D spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), an optical imaging technique, has been commonly used to discriminate glaucomatous from healthy subjects. In this paper, we present a new approach for locating the Bruch's membrane opening BMO and then estimating the optic disc size and rim area of 3D Spectralis SD-OCT images. To deal with the overlapping of the Bruch's membrane BM layer and the border tissue of Elschnig due to the poor image resolution, we propose the use of image deconvolution approach to separate these layers. To estimate the optic disc size and rim area, we propose the use of a new regression method based on the artificial neural network principal component analysis (ANN-PCA), which allows us to model irregularity in the BMO estimation due to scan shifts and/or poor image quality. The diagnostic accuracy of rim area, and rim to disc area ratio is compared to the diagnostic accuracy of global RNFL thickness measurements provided by two commercially available SD-OCT devices using receiver operating characteristic curve analyses.
Large-scale turbulence simulation on the Navier-Stokes Computer

Analytical techniques for turbulent air or water flow over vehicles and for the development of active control methods are described, with a focus on simulations being implemented on the Navier-Stokes Computer (NSC) at Princeton University. Consideration is given to the general NSC architecture (the central control, memory, and processing units; the switching network; and the prototype NSC), the algorithm for large-scale MHD turbulence (Orszag and Tang, 1979), and the pipeline configurations. Extensive diagrams and flow charts are provided.
Viability of Cardiorespiratory and Muscular Strength Programs for the Adolescent with Autism

Investigations have focused on exercise as an intervention with individuals with autism. The purpose of this investigation was to conduct exercise-training programs following standard guidelines with individuals with autism to stimulate future researchers to implement such programs. Aerobic and muscular strength training programs (MST) were con-ducted. Aerobic fitness increased 33%, 50%, and 33% for the 3 participants. For the MST, bench press increased 19% and 28%, low row increased 47% and 21%, and leg press increased 29% and 12% for the 2 participants. Future directions are discussed with regard to using exercise-training programs to not only enhance physical health but also the psychological well-being of individuals with autism.
The economic consequences of selected maternal and early childhood nutrition interventions in low- and middle-income countries: a review of the literature, 2000—2013

Globally, 25% of children aged 0 to 4 years and more than 10% of women aged 15 to 49 years suffer from malnutrition. A range of interventions, promising for improving maternal and child nutrition, may also improve physical and intellectual capacity, and, thereby, future productivity and earnings. We conducted a systematic literature review and summarized economic impacts of 23 reproductive, maternal, newborn and child health (RMNCH) interventions, published in 29 empirical studies between 2000 and 2013, using data from 13 low- and middle-income countries. We find that, in low- and middle-income countries, RMNCH interventions were rarely evaluated using rigorous evaluation methods for economic consequences. Nonetheless, based on limited studies, maternal and childhood participation in nutrition interventions was shown to increase individuals’ income as adults by up to 46%, depending on the intervention, demography and country. This effect is sizeable considering that poverty reduction interventions, including microfinance and conditional cash transfer programs, have helped increase income by up to 18%, depending on the context. We also found, compared to females, males appeared to have higher economic returns from childhood participation in RMNCH interventions. Countries with pervasive malnutrition should prioritize investments in RMNCH interventions for their public health benefits. The existing literature is currently too limited, and restricted to a few selected countries, to warrant any major reforms in RMNCH policies based on expected future income impacts. Longitudinal and intergenerational databases remain needed for countries to be better positioned to evaluate maternal and early childhood nutrition intervention programs for future economic consequences.
Thinking about order without thought: the lifetime contributions of Gordon Tullock

Philosophers tend to think of them as “conventions.” Economists and some biologists conceive of them as “spontaneous orders,” a concept discussed at some length in other papers in this issue. Perhaps the most general conception is “systems” theory, with roots in many disciplines. Many scholars in the sciences have tried to advance their research agendas by bringing systems theory to the study of human civilization. Gordon Tullock, a scholar who in the future will be recognized as someone well ahead of his own time, traveled the reverse path, in many cases being the first to suggest that the path even exists.
Improved Architecture Designs for a Low Cost Personal Remote Sensing Platform: Flight Control and Safety

Remote sensing is a field traditionally dominated by expensive, large-scale operations. This paper presents our efforts to improve our unmanned aircraft (UA) platforms for low-cost personal remote sensing purposes. Safety concerns are first emphasized regarding the local airspace and multiple fail-safe features are shown in the current system. Then the AggieAir unmanned system architecture is briefly described including the Paparazzi UA autopilot, AggieAir JAUS implementation, AggieNav navigation unit and payload integration. Some preliminary flight test results and images acquired using an example thermal IR payload system are also shown. Finally Multi-UAV and heterogeneous platform capabilities are discussed with respect to their applications. Based on our approaches on the new architecture design, personal remote sensing on smaller-scale operations can be more beneficial and common.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
A snake of a different color: physiological color change in Arizona black rattlesnakes

Coloration may serve a variety of behavioral (e.g., crypsis, communication) and physiological (e.g., thermoregulation, protection) functions for terrestrial ectotherms. However, optimal coloration for a given function may vary over environments (spatial or temporal) or conflict with other functions. Physiological color change (rapid change due to movement of pigment granules within chromatophores) may be an adaptation to resolve conflicting selective pressures on coloration. The proximate factors related to physiological color change are well known in many animals, but few studies have investigated the ecological or evolutionary implications of this behavior. Here, we present alternative hypotheses for physiological color change and discuss biotic and abiotic factors that may have led to the maintenance and/or loss of this behavior among populations of Arizona black rattlesnakes (Crotalus cerberus). We discuss what is known about this behavior and propose to investigate the function and evolution of coloration and color change in C. cerberus.
The Torrance Creative Scholars Program.

The Torrance Creative Scholars Program was established in 1989 as an outgrowth of the research of E. Paul Torrance, internationally renowned authority on creativity. Its primary purposes are the identification and nurturance of creative potential. Housed at the University of Southwestern Louisiana, the program offers two levels for students completing grades 4–8. Students who qualify on Torrance Tests of Creative Thinking are invited to participate in a Spring Recognition Ceremony. Most of these students further choose to attend a two‐week summer program that provides instruction and practice in several creative strategies and helps them to understand themselves as creative individuals. Program evaluation results have been encouraging, with parents and students confirming instrumental data reflecting improvements in creative motivation and self‐concept. After nine years of piloting, the program model is ready for dissemination; non‐profit institutions in other states are invited to apply for designation a...
An examination of tax reporting recommendations of professional tax preparers

Abstract This study reports on an empirical examination of the decisions of professional tax preparers. The paper is motivated by recent advances in the cognition literature. Based upon this literature we hypothesize that for ambiguous tax matters: (1) recent outcome information will influence the reporting recommendations of tax preparers, and (2) the amount of tax experience interacts with situational economic variables to influence the reporting recommendations of tax preparers. Concerning non-ambiguous tax matters, we hypothesize that (1) situational economic variables will affect recommendations made by tax preparers, and (2) neither recent outcome information nor years of experience will influence the recommendations made by tax preparers. The results of an experiment generally provide support for the hypotheses.
Fertilizer subsidies and private market participation: the case of Kano State, Nigeria

This article estimates the effect of a fertilizer voucher program on farmer participation in the private fertilizer market in Nigeria. Using a double-hurdle model (to address corner solution challenges with estimating input demand) and a control function approach (to account for the endogeneity of subsidized fertilizer acquired), the study finds evidence that receiving subsidized fertilizer in Kano, Nigeria increased both the probability and extent of participation in the private fertilizer market. Findings demonstrate that under certain circumstances, e.g., where input dealers’ links to farmer are weak; there could be significant gains from the temporary use of voucher programs to strengthen such links.
Analysis of radar-rainfall error characteristics and implications for streamflow simulation uncertainty

Abstract Due to the inherent indirect nature of radar-rainfall measurements, hydrologists have been interested in understanding the characteristics of radar-rainfall estimation errors and how they propagate through hydrological simulations. This study implements an observation-based empirical approach to analyse different characteristics of the total radar-rainfall estimation error such as overall and conditional bias, random error and spatio-temporal dependence. The implications of the radar error characteristics for streamflow simulations and the estimation of their uncertainty are examined using a physically-based distributed rainfall—runoff model. An empirical error model is used to generate several realizations of probable surface rainfall fields that reflect the identified characteristics of the radar error. These realizations are used to generate ensemble of streamflow predictions. The main conclusions are that: (a) radar errors have complex spatio-temporal characteristics that exhibit significant ...
Combining information for monitoring at large spatial scales: First statewide abundance estimate of the Florida manatee

Abstract Monitoring abundance and distribution of organisms over large landscapes can be difficult. Because of challenges associated with logistics and data analyses uncorrected counts are often used as a proxy for abundance. We present the first statewide estimate of abundance for Florida manatees (Trichechus manatus latirostris) using an innovative approach that combines multiple sources of information. We used a combination of a double-observer protocol, repeated passes, and collection of detailed diving behavior data to account for imperfect detection of animals. Our estimate of manatee abundance was 6350 (95%CI: 5310–7390). Specifically, we estimated 2790 (95%CI: 2160–3540) manatees on the west coast (2011), and 3560 (95%CI: 2850–4410) on the east coast (2012). Unlike uncorrected counts conducted since 1991, our estimation method considered two major sources of error: spatial variation in distribution and imperfect detection. The Florida manatee is listed as endangered, but its status is currently under review; the present study may become important for the review process. Interestingly, we estimated that 70% (95%CI: 60–80%) of manatees on the east coast of Florida were aggregated in one county during our survey. Our study illustrates the value of combining information from multiple sources to monitor abundance at large scales. Integration of information can reduce cost, facilitate the use of data obtained from new technologies to increase accuracy, and contribute to encouraging coordination among survey teams from different organizations nationally or internationally. Finally, we discuss the applicability of our work to other conservation applications (e.g., risk assessment) and to other systems.
Surface self‐diffusion measurements on copper

The decay kinetics of sinusoidal surface profiles on copper annealed in a hydrogen atmosphere were investigated in the temperature range 600 to 1030 °C in order to determine the temperature dependence of the surface self-diffusion coefficient, Ds. Below 910 °C the surface profiles were found to be faceted resulting in an apparent discontinuity in Ds which can be understood in terms of the γ-plot of copper. The discontinuity in the diffusion data can be expressed by the following equations: At temperatures below 800 °C is dependent on the annealing time, and inthe vicinity of 600 °C, Ds drops drastically below the minimumvalue that can be measured. This behavior can be explained in terms of the rate theory for a bimolecular surface reation between impurities and diffusing defects. From the predicted time dependence of Ds, it is possible to estimate Ds at t=0. These Ds−values are greater than the extrapolated high temperature data, thus indicating thepossibility of a lower activation energy for surface self-diffusion at low temperatures. Die Kinetik der Einebnung von sinusformigen Oberflachenprofilen auf in Wasserstoffatmosphare gegluhtem Kupfer wurde im Temperaturbereich 600 bis 1030 °C untersucht, um die Temperaturabhangigkeit des Oberflachen-Selbstdiffusionskoeffizienten, Ds, zu bestimmen. Unterhalb von 910 °C zeigten die Oberflachenprofile Facetten, wodurch eine scheinbare Diskontinuitat in Ds bedingt ist, die mit Hilfe der γ-Auftragung von Kupfer verstanden werden kann. Die Diskontinuitat in den Diffusionswerten kann durch folgende Gleichungen ausgedruckt werden: Fur Temperaturen unterhalb 800 °C hangt Ds von der Gluhzeit ab; in der Nahe von 600 °C fallt der Wert von Ds drastisch unter das mesbare Minimum. Dieses Verhalten kann im Rahmen der Theorie einer bimolekularen Oberflachenreaktion zwischen Fremdatomen und diffundierenden Fehlstellen erklart werden. Aus dieser vorausgesagten Zeitabhangigkeit von Ds ist es moglich, Ds zur Zeit t=0 abzuschatzen. Diese Ds−Werte sind groser als die extrapolierten Hochtemperaturwerte und deuten damit dit Moglichkeit einer kleineren Aktivierungsenergie fur Oberflachenselbstdiffusion bei niedrigen Temperaturen an
Random matrix model of adiabatic quantum computing

We present an analysis of the quantum adiabatic algorithm for solving hard instances of 3-SAT san NPcomplete problemd in terms of random matrix theory sRMTd. We determine the global regularity of the spectral fluctuations of the instantaneous Hamiltonians encountered during the interpolation between the starting Hamiltonians and the ones whose ground states encode the solutions to the computational problems of interest. At each interpolation point, we quantify the degree of regularity of the average spectral distribution via its Brody parameter, a measure that distinguishes regular si.e., Poissoniand from chaotic si.e., Wigner-typed distributions of normalized nearest-neighbor spacings. We find that for hard problem instances—i.e., those having a critical ratio of clauses to variables—the spectral fluctuations typically become irregular across a contiguous region of the interpolation parameter, while the spectrum is regular for easy instances. Within the hard region, RMT may be applied to obtain a mathematical model of the probability of avoided level crossings and concomitant failure rate of the adiabatic algorithm due to nonadiabatic Landau-Zener-type transitions. Our model predicts that if the interpolation is performed at a uniform rate, the average failure rate of the quantum adiabatic algorithm, when averaged over hard problem instances, scales exponentially with increasing problem size.
Comparison of managed and pre-settlement landscape dynamics in forests of the Pacific Northwest, USA

Abstract The landscape structure of forests subjected to wildfires fluctuates through time as a result of the episodic nature of these disturbances and long-term variation in the climatic conditions that influence the fire regime. These landscape dynamics influence a variety of important ecosystem processes. Before European settlement, landscape dynamics in Pacific Northwest forests were driven primarily by the patterns of wildfire, and an understanding of these dynamics can provide a unique frame of reference for evaluating current forest management policies and alternatives for the future. Tree-ring data and historical records of forest cutting were used to quantify the range of landscape conditions that existed on two large watersheds (4000 ha and 11600 ha) between the late 1400s and 1990. A rule-based simulation model was used to generate landscape patterns that would result from five alternative future forest management scenarios. Our results demonstrate that conditions on these two watersheds in 1990 are outside the range of conditions that existed during most of the reconstructed pre-settlement era. Continued use of short (50 to 100 year) timber rotation lengths would push these watersheds even farther outside of this range. The use of much longer rotation lengths (200 + years) could bring these watersheds back to within or very near this range of pre-settlement conditions.
Plasma Renin Activity and Renin-Substrate Concentration in Patients with Liver Disease

Peripheral venous renin activity was determined by the method of Boucher in 15 patients with cirrhosis of the liver and ascites who were on an unrestricted sodium intake. Positive sodium balance was present in all subjects. Marked elevation of mean plasma renin activity (43 ng angiotensin II/min per liter, SD±38) was present. The mean plasma renin activity in 16 normal ambulatory subjects on an unrestricted sodium intake was 10.7 ng (SD±4.9) of angiotensin II/min per liter. The difference was highly significant, P < 0.01. A zero-order enzyme reaction occurred in all but 1 patient; the first-order enzyme reaction in this 1 patient suggests a low renin-substrate concentration in liver disease. The renin-substrate concentration was determined in 18 patients with liver disease (13 with cirrhosis and 5 with hepatitis) and in 10 normal subjects. The renin substrate was expressed in equivalents of angiotensin II formed/100 ml plasma. The mean renin substrate in 13 patients with cirrhosis and ascites was 17,193 n...
Phronesis or Techne? Theatre Studies as Moral Agency.

As a new century unfurls, the ‘downsizing’ and continuing marginalisation of theatre programmes in American higher education correspond to two curricular trends. First, the coupling of fiscal crises and the ‘back-to-basics’ movement has prevailed at all levels of education since the late 1970s. Since then, secondly, students’ intentions for the bachelor of arts (BA) degree have changed from developing intellectual qualities and a philosophy of life to that of preparing for economic security (D. Koeppel, The New York Times, 5 December 2004). Reflecting the changing function of undergraduate education, our efforts as theatre educators to impart knowledge of, and experience in, dramatic culture are compromised in the US by diminishing funds, smaller student enrolments, shrinking audiences, and intractable power struggles among dispirited faculty. As theatre educators, we often ask, why are we here? What is our purpose in a market-driven setting? To answer these questions, I want to argue that if we are to re...
Acid-Degradable Cationic Dextran Particles for the Delivery of siRNA Therapeutics

We report a new acid-sensitive, biocompatible, and biodegradable microparticulate delivery system, spermine modified acetalated-dextran (Spermine-Ac-DEX), which can be used to efficiently encapsulate siRNA. These particles demonstrated efficient gene knockdown in HeLa-luc cells with minimal toxicity. This knockdown was comparable to that obtained using Lipofectamine, a commercially available transfection reagent generally limited to in vitro use due to its high toxicity.
An element removal and reintroduction strategy for the topology optimization of structures and compliant mechanisms

A method is developed to systematically remove and reintroduce low density elements from and into the finite element mesh on which the structural topology optimization problem is defined. The material density field which defines the topology and the local ‘stiffness’ of the structure is optimally distributed via non-linear programming techniques. To prevent elements from having zero stiffness, an arbitrarily small lower bound on the material density is typically imposed to ensure that the global stiffness matrix does not become singular. While this approach works well for most minimum compliance problems, the presence of low density elements can cause computational problems, particularly in structures that exhibit geometric non-linearities, e.g. in compliant mechanisms. To resolve this problem, a systematic approach for removing and reintroducing low density elements is presented, and the substantial performance improvements both in design and computational efficiency of the method over current methods are discussed. Several structures and compliant mechanisms are designed to demonstrate the method. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cross Modulation & Modulation Distortion of RF Transistors

As transistors become available which are comparable with tubes with respect to gain and noise factor at vhf, an evaluation is necessary to establish their performance with respect to cross modulation and modulation distortion. This paper discusses cross modulation and modulation distortion measurements on available r-f transistors.
Improved error estimation of dynamic finite element methods for second-order parabolic equations

Dynamic finite element schemes are analyzed for second-order parabolic problems. These schemes permit different finite element spaces at different time levels in order to efficiently capture time-changing localized phenomena, such as moving sharp fronts or layers. The dynamical change of grids and interpolation polynomials is necessary and essential to many large-scale transient problems. Standard, characteristic, and mixed finite element methods with dynamic function spaces are considered for linear and nonlinear problems in a unified framework with improved a priori error estimates and convergence results.
Effects of heat release on the large-scale structure in turbulent mixing layers

The effects of chemical heat release on the large-scale structure in a chemically reacting turbulent mixing layer have been studied using three-dimensional time-dependent simulations. Moderate heat release is found to slow the development of the large-scale structures and to shift their wavelengths to larger scales. The results suggest that previously unexplained anomalies observed in the mean velocity profiles of reacting jets and mixing layers may be the result of vorticity generation by baroclinic torques.
The natural history of antibiotics

Selman Waksman first used the word antibiotic as a noun in 1941 to describe any small molecule made by a microbe that antagonizes the growth of other microbes. From 1945–1955 the development of penicillin, which is produced by a fungus, along with streptomycin, chloramphenicol, and tetracycline, which are produced by soil bacteria, ushered in the antibiotic age (Figure 1). Today, the evolution of antibiotic resistance by important human pathogens has rendered these original antibiotics and most of their successors largely ineffective, and if replacements are not found, the golden age of antibiotics will soon come to an end. Figure 1 Biosynthetic pathways for the antibiotics penicillin, tetracycline, streptomycin, and thiocillin Understanding the success and failure of antibiotics requires understanding their natural history — the origins, evolution, and functions of the molecular medley that has played such an important role in human health. Studying their natural history could also result in new strategies to find novel antibiotics and delay resistance to existing ones.
The treatment of usury in the holy scriptures

Interest-free banking has recently evoked interest in financial as well as economic development literature. While the main focus of the special issue of this review is in interest-free banking, this concept is not new nor is it unique to Islam. This article notes how usury or interest on loans has been prohibited in Judaism and Christianity–the other monotheistic religions of the world. We offer a comparative and historical perspective of the treatment of usury or interest and aim to help readers (especially in the West) gain an understanding of this concept, a concept which seemingly has a growing role in the financial markets of the Islamic world. © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.