cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Energy Evaluation of the High Velocity Algae Raceway Integrated Design (ARID-HV)

Abstract: The ARID raceway is an effective method to maintain temperature in the optimal growing range. However, the energy input is excessive. Thus, the ARID-HV raceway was developed in order to reduce energy input requirements. This was accomplished by improving pumping efficiency and using a serpentine flow pattern in which the water flows through channels instead of over barriers. A prototype ARID-HV raceway was installed in Tucson, Arizona in order to evaluate the flow and energy requirements of the raceway. Preliminary results show continued high energy usage, but this paper explores the possible energy reductions with the new ARID-HV design with efficient propeller pumps and properly engineered channel lengths. Channel lengths are evaluated with Manning’s equation in order to determine the maximum channel length that could be implemented with the current pumping configuration.
Subsynchronous Resonance and Torsional Stresses in Turbine-Generator Shafts

A brief introduction to the phenomenon of sustained oscillation of a power system at subsynchronous frequencies is presented. Such oscillations result from the application of capacitors used for series compensation of transmission lines. A state-space model is employed to represent the action of subsynchronous armature currents on turbine- generator shaft torsional vibrations. A digital simulation program for the analysis of turbine generator shaft characteristics based on the state-space model is outlined. Two examples based on typical system parameters are given.
Local changes in multiple unit activity induced by electrochemical means in preoptic and hypothalamic areas in the female rat

Abstract Local effects of applying anodic direct current (ADC) thorugh stainless steel electrodes were studied by recording multiple unit activity with various electrode configurations in female rats under urethane anesthesia. The medial preoptic area (MPO) and anterior hypothalamic area (AHA) usually showed an increase in activity attaining its maximum by 10–25 min after ADC and lasting for 30–60 min. Some cases showed increases lasting for 2–4 h, without any consistent relationship to the current applied, brain location, or stage of estrous cycle. In the lateral preoptic area-medial forebrain bundle region only a consistent drop in activity was observed. Different current strengths induced changes in amplitude but not in duration of the increase in the MPO. No differences in responsiveness could be observed with respect to the estrous cycle. Similar increases in the MPO were obtained under pentobarbital anesthesia. These results are discussed in relation to neuroendocrine mechanisms. Caution is recommended in assuming that ADC applied through stainless steel electrodes necessarily induces a large increase in activity irrespective of the particular brain location to which it is applied. Studies regarding extradiencephalic structures are currently in progress.
Eigenenergies of linear systems with periodic structures

Using a new technique of amplitude analysis, the eigenvalues and eigenenergies are analyzed for finite and infinite linear harmonic chains with any periodic structures of two species. A new phase function which is "additive" for each unit cell can be constructed. In terms of this phase function, the eigenvalue equation is reduced to a low-order algebraic equation specified completely by the unit cell. Symmetry properties among the "cyclicly" permuted unit cells, analytic properties, vertex classification, diagram expansions, leading behavior, and reduction constraints (relating structure of more complicated unit cell to less complicated ones) are developed. For infinite systems, the density of states can be expressed in closed form as a single term. Eigenvectors also demonstrate collective behavior throughout the whole system.
Electrodynamics of moving anisotropic media - the first-order theory.

Electrodynamics of moving anisotropic media with velocities small compared to light, emphasizing plane wave propagation in drifting magnetoionic plasma
A comparative study of two community-based conservation models in Nepal

Conservation areas (CAs) and community forests (CFs) are generally considered to be two successful community-based conservation (CBC) models in Nepal. Nepal’s two CAs are administered by a nongovernmental organization (NGO), and all of its CFs are administered by a government agency (GA). The goal of this research is to compare and contrast these two models using quantitative and qualitative data collected through field research in the Annapurna Conservation Area in the summer of 2007 and adjacent CFs in the fall of 2008. The Conservation Area Management Committee (CAMC) and the Community Forest User Committee (CFUC) are the functional decision-making entities at the local level in CAs and CFs, respectively. We conducted one-on-one semi-structured interviews with 66 executive members of 10 CAMCs and 67 members of 9 CFUCs. While both models appear to have performed well overall, the CA under the direction of the NGO appears to have fared better with regard to (i) developing trust of local constituencies, (ii) garnering favorable attitudes among villagers, (iii) building capacity of executive members, and (iv) improving standards of living. We suggest that the particular accountabilities associated with NGOs may situate them in a better position to cultivate local governance than state entities on their own.
Effectiveness of Pair-Wise Testing for Software with Boolean Inputs

The pair-wise approach is a software testing technique, which generates test cases that consist of all combinations of pairs of input variable values. This paper investigates the effectiveness of the pair-wise approach for one practically important case -- testing logical expressions in software. Pair-wise effectiveness is experimentally evaluated in general terms and separately for specific types of faults. Two freely available software tools are used for pair-wise test set generation. Fault Evaluator, a software tool developed by the authors, is used for fault simulation and effectiveness evaluation. The experimental results are contrasted with data from other researchers, and the effectiveness of the pair-wise approach is compared with random testing. Quantitative analysis of pair-wise effectiveness depending on the size of expressions is also provided.
Abscisic acid and the regulation of synthesis of specific seed proteins and their messenger RNAs during culture of soybean embryos

The ability of soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) embryos cultured in vitro in the absence of abscisic acid (ABA) to germinate precociously increased as the embryos matured. Exogenous ABA prevented precocious germination at all stages of development, concentrations below 10(-5) M being partially effective. Growth (fresh weight increase) of mid-maturation embryos was dependent on ABA, and such embryos required ABA for continued synthesis of storage proteins during culture. Two complementary-DNA clones for different members of the family of 11S storage proteins, and one for the 7S storage proteins were used in Northern blot hybridizations to analyze the effects of ABA on the levels of the 11S and 7S mRNAs. In addition, filter hybridizations with in-vivo-labeled [(3)H]polyadenylated RNA to the cloned DNA for one of the 11S proteins were carried out to study transcription of 11S mRNA. Midmaturation embryos cultured with ABA continued to transcribe mRNAs for the storage proteins during the 21 d of culture studied, whereas in the absence of ABA these mRNAs disappeared from the cotyledons within about 5 d. The optimum concentration of ABA for the synthesis of storage-protein mRNAs was 10(-5) M. The effect of ABA on the concentration of 11S mRNAs was stage-dependent. Abscisic acid caused a decrease in the mRNA in embryos cultured at the cotyledon stage; it was necessary for high levels of the mRNA to be achieved in early- and mid-maturation embryos; and it did not reverse the decline in the mRNA levels in embryos cultured at the late-maturation stage.
Recombinant plasmid retention and expression in bacterial biofilm cultures

Any exposure of plasmid recombinant microorganisms to an open system environment, either inadvertently or intentionally, mandates research into those fundamental organism:plasmid processes that influence plasmid retention, transfer and expression. In open environmental systems a majority of the microbial activity occurs associated with an interface, within thin biological layers consisting of the cells and their insoluble extracellular polymer, layers known as biofilms . Thus any study regarding the fate of recombinant DNA sequences in an open system must consider processes that affect plasmid retention and expression in a biofilm culture. Biofilm cultures were cultivated in a parallel-plate flow cell reactor using E. coli DH5α which contained a recombinant plasmid with a plasmid stability factor, parB , (pTKW106) or without (pMJR1750). Using β-galactosidase as inducible reporter protein, plasmid retention and gene expression of pMJR1750 and pTKW106, in suspended versus biofilm cultures, were studied under different carbo to nitrogen ratios and plasmid induction levels. Recombinant biofilm formation under these environmental conditions was also investigated. Biofilm net accumulation rate of E. coli DH5α (pTKW106) decreases with increasing induction levels. The β-galactosidase production and ratios of β-galactosidase to total protein increase with increasing induction levels. Synthesis rates of total RNA, β-galactosidase mRNA and rRNA in biofilm cultures of E. coli DH5α (pTKW106) increase after induction by IPTG.
Trisomy 8 in Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma Detected by Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization

Embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma is the most common malignant soft-tissue tumor in childhood. Cytogenetic studies of this tumor are rare. In one study trisomy 8 was found to be a primary cytogenetic abnormality. In view of the findings of trisomy 8 in a multitude of cancers, we conducted a pilot study to test the hypothesis that a subset of rhabdomyosarcoma also exists with trisomy 8. Accordingly, archival tissues of 12 cases of rhabdomyosarcoma were retrieved and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) using a chromosome 8-specific, α-satellite probe was undertaken on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue sections using the protocol optimized in the Cytogenetics Laboratory at Rhode Island Hospital. The results obtained demonstrated that 6 of 12 tumors showed chromosome 8 trisomy, when a 15% threshold is adopted. In addition, one case was borderline, with 11% of the cells found positive for three fluorescent signals. Future experiments utilizing additional specimens from our centers as well as from other laboratories are needed to confirm and extend the findings of the present study.
Effects of pinealectomy and melatonin injections at different seasons on ovarian activity in the lizard Anolis carolinensis

The short-term effects of pinealectomy and melatonin treatment on ovarian activity in the lizard, Anolis carolinensis were examined at various times of the year. Animals were maintained under short photoperiod (6L:18D) at a constant temperature of 31 ± 1°C. Destruction of the epiphysis by heat cautery in November and January caused significant follicular development within 14 days. Daily administration of 10 μg synthetic melatonin blocked ovarian stimulation resulting from pinealectomy. Ovarian sensitivity to pinealectomy decreased with the onset of seasonal reproductive activity and was absent at the end of the normal breeding season, i.e., September. These observations support the hypotheses that, under conditions of short photoperiod and high environmental temperature, (a) the pineal organ can modify ovarian activity in Anolis; (b) there exists a definite seasonal sensitivity to this influence; and (c) melatonin may be an active agent of pineal function.
El Niño and La Niña Related Climate and Agricultural Impacts over the Great Plains and Midwest

Seasonal climate forecasting depends implicitly on climate mechanisms that behave predictably over season-to-season or longer time scales. One mechanism that shows evidence of such behavior is the El Nino-Southern Oscillation (ENSO). Using U.S. Climate Division data, USDA-NASS yield data, and the sea-surface temperature (SST) index of Wright (1989), the effects of both El Nino and La Nina Southern Oscillation phases on the central USA are evaluated, with a specific focus on comparing climate and agricultural yield effects during summer and winter. The climate analyses presented here reveal evidence of significant shifts in seasonal precipitation and temperature over parts of the central USA, dependent on the state of ENSO-associated SST anomalies. A significant tendency to cool and wet conditions over portions of the Missouri River drainage basin is found during EI Nino July-August-September (JAS) periods. During JAS periods consistent with strong La Nina conditions a significant incidence of seasonal temperatures in the highest 25% of the historical record is found over Iowa, Illinois, and Indiana. El Nino conditions during northern winter are consistent with a higher-than-chance incidence of wet seasonal conditions over winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) growing regions of Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas. Conversely, I a Nina conditions show a significant tendency to below median precipitation and extreme dryness. A general tendency for winter wheat yields to be increased (decreased) is found in harvests after periods of warm (cold) winter SST, and a similar effect on corn (Zea mays L.) yield is found immediately after summer seasons marked by anomalously warm and cold SSTs in the equatorial Pacific. However, while significant tendencies for above or below normal yields are the rule in the winter wheat analyses, effects on corn yield-while clearly evident in some state's yield records-are less significant overall. This contrast in yield effect, combined with evidence of stronger northern winter climate impacts and the fact that the ENSO mechanism favors northern winters, lead us to propose that the value of ENSO forecasts of opportunity in long-term agricultural management may be greater for winter wheat than for corn.
Localized surface plasmon assisted contrast microscopy for ultrathin transparent specimens

We demonstrate a high contrast imaging technique, termed localized surface plasmon assisted contrast microscopy, by combining localized surface plasmon resonances (LSPR) and dark-field microscopy technique. Due to the sensitive response of LSPR to the refractive index of the surrounding media, this technique is capable of converting a small refractive index difference to a change in scattering intensity, resulting in a high-contrast, diffraction limited image of a thin unstained specimen with small, gradual refractive-index variation.
A fusion and learning algorithm for landing aircraft tracking: compensating for exhaust plume disturbance

An algorithm is presented for tracking a landing aircraft using fusion of two different passive sensors, a laser range finder (LRF) and a forward-looking infrared (FLIR) camera. The main feature of this algorithm is its ability to identify and compensate for an exhaust plume disturbance. The algorithm is based on the extended Kalman filter (EKF) and the filtering confidence function (FCF) which introduces a learning approach to the tracking problem. The results of a simulation using the learning tracking algorithm and the EKF alone are presented and compared. >
Variability in Construction of Cement-Treated Base Layers: Material Properties and Contractor Performance

Construction factors most correlated to specific mechanical properties of cement-treated base (CTB) layers were identified. Construction factors that exhibit comparatively high variability within individual construction sections of the two pavement reconstruction projects included in this study were determined. In addition, differences between construction sections tested in this research were evaluated. Researchers collected extensive field and laboratory data, which were analyzed using several statistical techniques. The results of this analysis suggest that reduced spatial variability is needed in reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) content, cement content, and time between mixing and compaction, which were all identified as important predictors of CTB strength in this study. For full-depth reclamation projects, milling plans should be used to achieve improved uniformity in RAP content, and inspection protocols for encouraging improved control of cement content during construction should be implemented to...
Influence of Environment on Preweaning Growth of the Rat. I. Dietary Regimen of the Young.

SummaryThe shape of the preweaning growth curve of the rat is profoundly affected by the lack or availability of solid food. The divergence from conformity to Zucker's growth equation of rats raised on the Anderson and Smith diet may be due to the natural transition from a liquid (milk) to a solid diet and does not appear to be explained by a qualitative deficiency in this diet.
A TUNABLE 2DOF LINER

The present work explores the feasibility of controlling the absorption properties of a conventional resonant-type two-degree-of--freedom (2DOF) acoustic liner by a variable buried septum. This is accomplished by creating a variable orifice perforate which is implemented as the buried septum layer. By translating one perforate over another of the same porosity. a totally new perforate with an intermediate porosity is created. Two separate 2DOF liner test articles are fabricated and tested one for normal incidence impedance tests and the other as partial wall treatment in a flow-duct. Insertion loss and transmission loss measurements are made as a function of septum porosity and grazing flow. Results indicate that perforate translational movements on the order of the orifice diameter (1.6 mm) produce shifts in the primary resonance frequency of approximately 14% (200 Hz) and the secondary frequency approximately 16% (800 Hz) to its single-degree-of-freedom limit. Under grazing flow conditions in a flow-duct, similar translational movements in the buried septum results in similar peak absorption frequency shifting. The “de-tuning” of the liner associated with grazingjlow was minimized by controlling the buried septum impedance. The unique orijice shape created by the sliding perforate produces a vectored orijice jetting pattern.
Fecal diversion for penetrating colon injuries--still the established treatment.

PURPOSE: An analysis of the existing literature on primary repair of colon injuries was undertaken to determine if there is sufficient evidence that this approach is superior to fecal diversion. METHODS: After a thorough literature search, three prospectively randomized studies comparing primary repair with fecal diversion in the management of colon injuries were identified. A variety of factors were examined, including the number of patients in each study arm, morbidity rates, as well as exclusion criteria. An analysis was performed to determine the number of patients required to establish statistical superiority of one procedure over the other. RESULTS: Pooling of the data contained in the aforementioned reports does not provide sufficient statistical power to support the superiority of primary repair of colon injuries. To demonstrate a 5 percent difference between the two approaches, a prospective, randomized study consisting of 200 patients in each arm is necessary. CONCLUSION: The present literature does not support a statistically valid advantage of primary repair over fecal diversion in the management of traumatic colon injuries.
Rhabdomyolysis associated with hyperthyroidism.

ABSTRACT Background Nontraumatic rhabdomyolysis has been associated with alcohol and drug abuse, seizures, strenuous exercise, muscle hypoperfusion, hyperthermia, electrolyte disturbances, diabetic coma, and hypothyroidism. Hyperthyroidism can be associated with several neuromuscular manifestations, such as thyrotoxic myopathy and thyrotoxic periodic paralysis, both associated with weakness and normal creatine phosphokinase levels. There have been only three reported cases of rhabdomyolysis as a result of thyrotoxicosis. We are reporting the fourth case of such association. Case Report The patient is a 26-year-old black woman with history of hypertension. She presented to the clinic with blurred vision, headaches, palpitations, weight loss, weakness, and persistent high blood pressure. She was found to have exophthalmus, lid lag, and a symmetric, smooth, and diffuse goiter. Ptosis and diplopia were absent; neurologic examination findings was normal. The patient had positive TPO antibodies, elevated free T4 level, and low thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level. Graves disease was diagnosed and propylthiouracil was prescribed. The patient then returned to the clinic 2 weeks later with weakness and myalgias. Her physical examination findings were unchanged except for mild muscle weakness. Laboratory evaluation showed normal electrolytes, normal renal function, and negative urine drug screening. Creatine phosphokinase was 1276 U/L. Her free T4 and T3 levels were elevated and TSH level was low. The patient was treated with aggressive oral fluid resuscitation. Propylthiouracil was continued and free T4 and T3 normalized along with creatine phosphokinase with resolution of symptoms. Conclusions Hyperthyroidism may, theoretically, cause rhabdomyolysis by means of increasing energy consumption associated with depletion of muscle energy stores and substrates. Our patient constitutes the fourth reported case of rhabdomyolysis associated with hyperthyroidism.
Preparing Foster Youth for Independent Living: Collaboration Between County Independent Living Programs and Community-Based Youth-Serving Agencies

Independent living programs (ILPs) serve as the primary vehicle to prepare foster youth for adulthood, although many agencies serve these youth. Few studies have examined how well these programs collaborate to meet youth needs. This exploratory qualitative study of an ILP in an urban county presents data from a survey of county employees (n = 10), and interviews with ILP employees (n = 11) and staff of community-based partner agencies (n = 11). Analysis of themes suggests that although ILP meets the needs of some youth effectively, challenges exist in the collaboration between ILP and other agencies. Three challenges emerged related to the vision of ILP, sharing of information and resources, and the general stress of the work. These findings are used to inform ILP policy and practice.
Verapamil does not antagonize LSD-induced stimulus control.

Abstract Discriminative stimulus control was established in rats (N = 6) with LSD (100 microg/kg) and saline using a 2-lever response choice task and an FR10 schedule of food reinforcement. Subjects were then tested once per week with either pizotyline (BC-105) or verapamil alone or in combination with LSD. In aggreement with previous reports, pizotyline antagonized LSD and, when tested alone, exhibited modest agonistic effects (18% LSD-appropriate). In contrast, verapamil failed to block LSD at any dose tested. Verapamil alone appeared to have somewhat greater agonistic activity (35% LSD-appropriate) than did pizotyline but neither drug substituted completely for LSD. These data suggest that calcium channel antagonism by pizotyline is not essential to its anti-LSD effects.
Systems approach to childhood and adolescent obesity prevention and treatment in a managed care organization.

OBJECTIVE: To outline an intervention approach to childhood and adolescent obesity prevention and treatment, that will systematically facilitate effective communication, provide long-term social support and access to resources, that may be accessed proactively or on demand. Furthermore, this approach operates in an environment that involves all critical parties: child/adolescent, family-unit, physician and allied health professionals. SYSTEMS THINKING APPROACH: The objective is to bring together all key stakeholders and consider the interrelationships among them as a common process. In a managed care setting, this may be accomplished by optimizing the contributions of care delivery, health promotion and information systems. SETTING: A not-for-profit, community governed Managed Care Organization (MCO) in the Midwestern United States. Telephone-based, centralized services facilitate a process of access, communication, documentation and intervention implementation. CASE STUDIES:Two case studies are presented as examples of how access is obtained, the intervention is tailored to individual needs, communication is established, documentation is organized and long-term support is facilitated. CONCLUSIONS: A systems thinking approach to obesity prevention and treatment in youth has great potential. In a MCO setting, such an approach may be implemented, since integrated health care delivery systems may allow a common process to be established that can bring together all key stakeholders.
Women's place in everyday talk: Reflections on parent-child interaction.

In this paper, we compare the results of our previous study of interruptions in same-sex and cross-sex conversations (Zimmerman and West, 1975) with similar data from parent-child verbal interaction and find that there are striking similarities between the pattern of interruptions in male-female interchanges and those observed in the adult-child transactions. We use the occasion of this comparison to consider several possible interactional consequences of interruption in conversation, particularly as these consequences relate to the issue of dominance in face-to-face interaction.
The effect of ownership structure on firm performance: Additional evidence

Abstract This article examines the effect of ownership structure on corporate performance, using stock returns as a measure of performance. Based on the 1988–1992 sample period, we find that the level of insider ownership is positively related to stock returns. This result suggests that as managers' equity ownership increases, their interests coincide more with those of outside shareholders. But we also find that the square of the level of insider ownership is inversely related to stock returns, indicating that excessive insider ownership rather hurts corporate performance probably due to the problem associated with managers' entrenchment. Finally, we find that stock returns are positively related to institutional ownership, indicating that institutional owners are active in monitoring management.
Stochastic spatial models in large wireless networks

A realistic model for the geometry of a mobile wireless network, i.e. the spatial configuration of its nodes, must take into account the randomness involved in nodes' locations which is the consequence of the unpredictanle movement of nodes. Stochastic geometry and point processes are rich mathematical disciplines which can be used to model such random wireless networks. In this paper, we discuss various types of point processes which can be applied to model the geometry of large wireless networks. Futher applications in interference modeling in random wireless networks and also dynamic spectrum access will be discussed.
Parathyroid damage in man: mechanism of effect on serum levels of calcium and phosphorus.

THE fall in the concentration of calcium in the serum of rats after parathyroidectomy has recently been shown to precede the expected rise in the concentration of phosphorus (1). This observation of Munson's confirms Greenwald's earlier findings (2) in dogs, and supports the concept that parathyroid hormone acts directly to maintain the level of calcium in the serum. The chance observation of a patient who had marked hypocalcemia but a normal level of serum phosphorus at the time of the first sign of tetany following thyroidectomy for hyperthyroidism led to the search for similar patients to confirm, in man, the foregoing findings in animals. The chance observation of a patient who had marked hypocalcemia but a normal level of serum phosphorus at the time of the first sign of tetany following thyroidectomy for hyperthyroidism led to the search for similar patients to confirm, in man, the foregoing findings in animals.
Role of differential entropy inequality in chemically reacting flows

To our knowledge, today the differential entropy inequality appears to be always ignored in simulating chemically reacting flows. In addition to satisfying the differential mass, momentum, and energy balances, simulations of chemically/biochemically reacting systems must satisfy the entropy inequality (the second law of thermodynamics). Common types of material behavior (Newton's law of viscosity, Fourier's law, Fick's first law) satisfy the differential entropy inequality automatically, but common empirical descriptions of chemical/biochemical reactions do not. The issue is illustrated with three examples including a laminar methane flame for which data are available from the literature.
A method for the determination of d -kynurenine in biological tissues

d-Kynurenine (d-KYN), a metabolite of d-tryptophan, can serve as the bioprecursor of kynurenic acid (KYNA) and 3-hydroxykynurenine, two neuroactive compounds that are believed to play a role in the pathophysiology of several neurological and psychiatric diseases. In order to investigate the possible presence of d-KYN in biological tissues, we developed a novel assay based on the conversion of d-KYN to KYNA by purified d-amino acid oxidase (d-AAO). Samples were incubated with d-AAO under optimal conditions for measuring d-AAO activity (100 mM borate buffer, pH 9.0), and newly produced KYNA was detected by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with fluorimetric detection. The detection limit for d-KYN was 300 fmol, and linearity of the assay was ascertained up to 300 pmol. No assay interference was noted when other d-amino acids, including d-serine and d-aspartate, were present in the incubation mixture at 50-fold higher concentrations than d-KYN. Using this new method, d-KYN was readily detected in the brain, liver, and plasma of mice treated systemically with d-KYN (300 mg/kg). In these experiments, enantioselectivity was confirmed by determining total kynurenine levels in the same samples using a conventional HPLC assay. Availability of a sensitive, specific, and simple method for d-KYN measurement will be instrumental for evaluating whether d-KYN should be considered for a role in physiology and pathology.
Properties of Surface Polaritons in Layered Structures

We present the theory of surface polaritons which propagate in a film of a surface-active material placed on a substrate. The theory provides a description of the new mode observed recently by Evans, Ushioda, and McMullen in the Raman spectrum of a GaAs film placed on a sapphire substrate.
Calculation of inelastic scattering in terms of elastic scattering

Abstract It is shown that the adiabatic distorted-waves theory of inelastic scattering, under suitable approximations, can be re-expressed in terms of derivatives of elastic scattering amplitudes. The methods are very general, and have the interesting aspect that they display relations which are directly among scatering amplitudes, so that the role of the optical potential is minimized. Results are obtained for all orders of the inelastic coupling constant, hence for single excitation (normal inelastic scattering), for double excitation, and for the reaction of inelastic coupling on the elastic scattering. The theory easily takes the form of a generalized “diffraction model,” and yields information about the reliability of such models. The older, Fraunhofer model of Blair is obtained as a special case. Two basic approximations are employed. Both are at their best if the projectile is absorbed strongly by the target nucleus, and if angular momentum transfers are much smaller than the angular momenta that are important for partial wave expansions. Approximation A simplifies the Green's functions that enter in calculations of the higher-order processes, so that the mathematical structure of such calculations becomes equivalent to that of first-order calculations by others which are known from the study of elastic scattering, and which are easily related to derivatives of the amplitudes for elastic scattering.
Occupation and risk of uveal melanoma. An exploratory study.

Background. Little is known about the cause of uveal melanoma, the most common primary intraocular malignant lesion in adults. This population-based case-control study evaluated occupational exposures. Methods. One hundred ninety-seven newly diagnosed cases of uveal melanoma participated. Approximately two control subjects matched for age, sex, and telephone exchange area were selected for each case by random-digit dialing. Data were collected by a structured telephone interview. Two systems of occupational coding were used: an occupation-exposure linkage system and the Bureau of Census data. Conditional logistic regression for matched studies was used to examine various occupational exposures while controlling for previously reported potential confounders and for family income. The occupation-exposure matrix was used to define clusters of cases exposed to a particular chemical group from various occupations. Results. Odds ratios were elevated for agriculture and farming work for both industry and occupation; this was consistent across both classification systems. Elevated odds ratios also were found for occupations involving machine operations, fabrication, assembling, equipment cleaning, and exposure to metal industries. Exposure to alkylating agents and phenols was associated with a lower risk compared with all other exposures. Several self-reported exposures also were studied. Exposures associated with elevated odds ratios were inks, insecticides, gases, radioactive substances, polybromated biphenyls, and chemical solvents. Conclusions. This exploratory study suggests various occupational associations for uveal melanoma and areas for future research.
HOUSEHOLD SAVING AND PORTFOLIO CHANGE: EVIDENCE FROM THE 1983–89 SCF PANEL

There are few sources of high-quality data on the dynamics of wealth accumulation. This paper uses newly available data from the 1983 89 panel of the Survey of Consumer Finances to examine household saving and portfolio change over the 1980s. Our main findings are as follows. First, median household wealth rose modestly over the period. Second, while overall wealth inequality increased, households in the top 1 percent of the wealth distribution in 1983 saw their share of total wealth decline, probably reflecting turnover among the very wealthy. Third, although age, income, and initial wealth had significant effects in regressions on household saving, a large part of the variation in saving was unexplained. Finally, there were clear life-cycle patterns in the portfolios of assets and liabilities held by households, with younger households acquiring homes, businesses and all types of debts, and older households divesting themselves of these assets and debts.
TAREEG: a MapReduce-based system for extracting spatial data from OpenStreetMap

Real spatial data, e.g., detailed road networks, rivers, buildings, parks, are not easily available for most of the world. This hinders the practicality of many research ideas that need a real spatial data for testing and experiments. Such data is often available for governmental use, or at major software companies, but it is prohibitively expensive to build or buy for academia or individual researchers. This paper presents TAREEG; a web-service that makes real spatial data, from anywhere in the world, available at the fingertips of every researcher or individual. TAREEG gets all its data by leveraging the richness of OpenStreetMap data set; the most comprehensive available spatial data of the world. Yet, it is still challenging to obtain OpenStreetMap data due to the size limitations, special data format, and the noisy nature of spatial data. TAREEG employs MapReduce-based techniques to make it efficient and easy to extract OpenStreetMap data in a standard form with minimal effort. Experimental results show that TAREEG is highly accurate and efficient.
Osteomyelitis Due to Veillonella parvula: Case Report and Review

Anaerobic gram-negative cocci of the genus Veillonella are generally normal flora of the oropharynx and upper respiratory tract. When isolated in clinical specimens, these bacteria are usually regarded as commensal organisms rather than as pathogens. We report a case of spinal osteomyelitis in which Veillonella parvula was isolated in pure culture from bone as well as blood. Osteomyelitis of the spine due to anaerobic bacteria may occur more frequently than has been recognized, and anaerobic cultures of biopsy specimens should be routinely performed.
Glucose infusion potentiates the acute insulin response to nonglucose stimuli during the infusion of somatostatin.

These studies assessed the ability of glucose infusions to potentiate the acute insulin response (AIR) to iv isoproterenol (12μg), arginine (750 mg), or glucose (5 g) that was previously inhibited by an infusion of somatostatin (SRIF). SRIF (1.7 μg/min) markedly inhibited the AIR to isoproterenol (AIR before SRIF, 28 ± 1 μU/ml; AIR during SRIF, 8 ± 4 μU/ml; P < 0.025), arginine (AIR before SRIF, 6 ± 2 μU/ml; AIR during SRIF, 1 ± 1 μU/ml; P < 0.01), and glucose (AIR before SRIF, 19 ± 7 μU/ml; AIR during SRIF, 1 ± 1 μU/ml; P < 0.05). The administration of a glucose infusion of 105 mg/min partially restored the AIR to isoproterenol and arginine. Glucose infused at 440 mg/min fully restored the AIR to both isoproterenol (AIR during SRIF plus glucose, 31 ± 4 μU/ml) and arginine (AIR during SRIF plus glucose, 9 ± 2 μU/ml). In contrast, the AIR to glucose was not affected by infusion of glucose (AIR during SRIF plus glucose, 0 ± 1 μU/ml). In the absence of SRIF, glucose infusion potentiates the AIR to isoprotere...
Characterization ofp-Generalized Normality

In this paper some characterization results ofLp-norm spherical distributions are obtained. It is proved that ifX=(X1, ?, Xn)? has aLp-norm spherical distribution having certain independence properties, thenX1, X2, ?, Xnmust be i.i.d. with p.d.f.p(x)?e?|x|p/c. Also, the largest characterization ofLp-norm spherical distributions is given.
Utility of Hemoglobin-A1C in Nondiabetic Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

ABSTRACT Objective Hemoglobin A1c (A1C) >5.7% is now accepted as a biomarker for identifying individuals at risk for diabetes. Compared to the general population, women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have a higher risk for diabetes. Our goal was to determine what glucose homeostasis abnormalities can be identified by A1C >5.7% in women with PCOS. Methods In a cross-sectional study, nondiabetic women with PCOS (according to the National Institutes of Health [NIH] criteria) were divided into 2 groups based on A1C ( 5.7% [n = 25]). Oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTT) and frequently sampled intravenous glucose tolerance tests (FS-IVGTT) were conducted, and body composition, cardiovascular risk factors, and sex steroid levels were assessed. Results Compared to women with A1C 5.7% were older (35.1 ± 1.1 years vs. 31.1 ± 1.1 years; P = .04), had higher glucose levels at fasting and during OGTT, and had a lower insulin sensitivity index (SI: 2.0 ± 0.2 vs. 4.2 ± 0.6; P = .0195) and disposition index (DI: 1,014 ± 82 vs. 1,901 ± 217; P = .011) during FS-IVGTT. They also had higher triglycerides, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and fatty acid-binding protein 4 (FABP4) levels. There was no difference in serum androgen levels. Conclusion A1C >5.7% identified the subgroup of PCOS patients with higher insulin resistance, inadequate compensatory insulin response, impaired glucose disposition, and increased cardiovascular risk factors. Thus, A1C represents an inexpensive and informative biomarker to identify PCOS patients at risk for metabolic abnormalities. (Endocr Pract. 2013;19:284-289)
Incomes policies, inflation and strikes in Nigeria, 1950—1985: an empirical investigation

The effects of incomes policies and inflation on the incidence of strikes in Nigeria for the 1950–1985 period are examined. Studies have analysed extensively the determinants of strike activity in developed countries, however relatively little empirical analysis of strike determinants in less developed countries exists. An attempt is made to fill this gap by including key economic, organizational, and institutional variables into a model that is capable of predicting the variations in strikes in Nigeria, a developing country with a growing unionized sector. The estimated results of the model show that strikes in Nigeria are positively influenced by the level of inflation, the level of union membership, incomes policies, and time trend.
Helper T-cell subsets in mouse leishmaniasis: induction, expansion and effector function

It has been a surprise to find that the two distinct subsets of mouse CD4+ T cells identified from clones cultured in vitro also occur during Leishmania infection. The spectrum of disease encountered during these infections ranges from successful resolution to fatal dissemination and in mice these outcomes are accompanied by expansion of TH1 or TH2 CD4+ cells, respectively. This review focuses on the mechanisms that cause such disparate responses to the parasite.
The prevalence, awareness and treatment of high low density lipoprotein-cholesterol in korean adults without coronary heart diseases - the third Korea national health and nutrition examination survey, 2005 -.

Background and Objectives The purpose of this study was to estimate the prevalence, awareness and treatment of high low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) level in Korean adults without coronary heart disease.
Temporal effects of RNase and DNase in disrupting acquired escape behavior in regenerated planaria

Trained planaria, transected immediately after the last training trial and regenerated in RNase, exhibited impairment of an acquired escape pattern of responses. Regeneration in DNase resulted in no response decrement. Ss transected 24 h after completion of the last training sessions and regenerated in either RNase or DNase, displayed significant response decrement Results suggest a time-dependent involvement of RNA and DNA in maintenance of the acquired response pattern.
Coherent Two-Photon Amplification in an Inverted Medium

We study the propagation of an electromagnetic pulse in an inverted medium where atomic levels of interest have the same parity and an energy separation equal to twice the energy of the incident photons. We analyze the coupled atom-field evolution equations in the limit when incoherent atomic relaxation processes can be neglected, and derive the threshold conditions for amplification and a few exact conservation relations. The detailed evolution of the pulse through the inverted medium is investigated with the help of a hybrid computer.
Relationship of Pelvis and Upper Torso Kinematics to Pitched Baseball Velocity

Generating consistent maximum ball velocity is an important factor for a baseball pitcher’s success. While previous investigations have focused on the role of the upper and lower extremities, little attention has been given to the trunk. In this study it was hypothesized that variations in pelvis and upper torso kinematics within individual pitchers would be significantly associated with variations in pitched ball velocity. Nineteen elite baseball pitchers were analyzed using 3-D high-speed motion analysis. For inclusion in this study, each pitcher demonstrated a variation in ball velocity of at least 1.8 m/s (range: 1.8‐3.5 m/s) during his 10 fastball pitch trials. A mixed-model analysis was used to determine the relationship between 12 pelvis and upper torso kinematic variables and pitched ball velocity. Results indicated that five variables were associated with variations in ball velocity within individual pitchers: pelvis orientation at maximum external rotation of the throwing shoulder ( p = .026), pelvis orientation at ball release ( p = .044), upper torso orientation at maximum external rotation of the throwing shoulder ( p = .007), average pelvis velocity during arm cocking (p = .024), and average upper torso velocity during arm acceleration ( p = .035). As ball velocity increased, pitchers showed an increase in pelvis orientation and upper torso orientation at the instant of maximal external rotation of the throwing shoulder. In addition, average pelvis velocity during arm cocking and average upper torso velocity during arm acceleration increased as ball velocity increased. From a practical perspective, the athlete should be coached to strive for proper trunk rotation during arm cocking as well as strength and flexibility in order to generate angular velocity within the trunk for maximum ball velocity.
Performance evaluation of a fault-tolerant mechanism based on replicated distributed objects for CORBA

For future applications, it is important to develop systems using small objects. Such systems must be able to provide uninterrupted services even when some small objects stop. Replicating such objects is one way to do this. However, introducing some type of redundancy into systems generally adds some overhead. Our proposed model reduces this overhead. It is implemented with multi-threaded execution for applications in actual systems. We measured the performance of an implementation for applications connected to databases. The results show that the overhead for ordinary execution and the time required to switch the replicas are both acceptably small. This technique will therefore play an important role in future systems.
A Systematic Assessment of the Association of Polysomnographic Indices with Blood Pressure: The Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA)

Study objective Blood pressure (BP) may be adversely affected by a variety of sleep disturbances, including sleep fragmentation, hypoxemia, respiratory disturbances, and periodic limb movements. We aim to identify which polysomnography indices are most strongly and consistently associated with systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP, DBP) levels in a population-based sample. Design Cross-sectional analysis of data from 2,040 participants in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA) who underwent polysomnography at MESA Exam 5 in 2011-2013. Setting Multisite cohort study. Participants Participants were mean age 68 y (54% females; 28% African American, 24% Hispanic, 11% Chinese). Measurements Thirty-two candidate polysomnography predictors were identified representing the domains of breathing disturbance frequency, hypoxemia, sleep architecture, and periodic limb movements. Cluster analysis was used for variable reduction. Statistical models, adjusted for potential confounders, were derived using stepwise regression. Final models were selected using cross-validation techniques. Results The apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) defined using a 4% desaturation hypopnea criterion (AHI4P) was most consistently associated with SBP level. The AHI and periodic limb movement index (associated with arousals; PLMIA) were significantly associated with DBP. Estimated adjusted differences in SBP and DBP levels between an individual with no sleep apnea (AHI4P = 0) and one with moderately severe sleep apnea (AHI4P = 30) were 2.2 mm Hg and 1.1 mm Hg, respectively. Each 10-unit increase in the PLMIA was associated with an increase in DBP of 1.2 mm Hg. Conclusion Our results support the use of a currently recommended apnea-hypopnea index definition as a marker of blood pressure risk and indicate that measurement of limb movements with arousals is also independently associated with diastolic blood pressure.