cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Nonplanar oscillation of beams under periodic forcing

In a study of parametric excitation of planar transverse responses of axially driven strings and rods, Haight and King [S] observed that for certain values of the parameters the excited planar motion in turn parametrically excites a mode which is not in the original plane. The authors also point out that the coupling between the original planar response and the nonplanar motion is due to nonlinearities. After deriving the equations of motion for the case of axially excited rod, the authors discuss the range of frequencies of the periodic forcing for which the nonplanar response occurs and the stability of such a motion. Such nonplanar responses in the context of strings were studied by Murthy and Ramakrishna [7]. They show that a string excited in a direction perpendicular to the axis may, under certain conditions, cause vibrations which are not only in the plane of the driving force. This study has since been extended by several other authors. This paper follows the study initiated in [6], where the whirling motions of nonlinear elastic beams were studied. In this paper the authors study the motion of a simply supported beam with two perpendicular axes of symmetry where the forcing is periodic and planar. The authors approximate the nonlinear hyperbolic equations by a system of coupled ordinary differential equations. These equations are then’ studied for nonplanar response and stability. In [Z] we considered the rotating beam equations of helicopter rotorcraft dynamics. The harmonically forced hyperbolic equations were approximated by a finite element approach using Chebyshev polynomials. A fourth order Runge-Kutta integration scheme was then utilized to study the long-time behavior of the solution of the associated evolution equation. 419 0022-0396/92 $3.00
Operative therapy of renovascular hypertension

Three hundred and thirteen patients exhibiting renal artery occlusive disease underwent operation for renovascular hypertension. These included 34 paediatric and 144 adult patients with fibrodysplastic disease. Atherosclerotic lesions affected an additional 64 patients without and 71 patients with clinically overt extrarenal arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Ischaemic kidney renin hypersecretion (renal: systemic renin index > 0·48), associated with suppressed contralateral kidney renin secretion (renal: systemic renin index approaching 0·0), predicted curability most reliably. Four hundred and fifteen operations were performed of which 356 were primary and 59 were secondary procedures. Aortorenal bypass using autogenous vein (227 cases) or prosthetic grafts (62 cases) was the most common primary operation. Nephrectomy was the initial therapy in 17 cases. Six operative deaths occurred in patients manifesting overt extrarenal arteriosclerotic disease. No operative mortality was encountered among the remaining 242 patients. Improvement was seen following operation in 97 per cent of paediatric patients and 94 per cent of adults with fibrodysplastic disease, in 91 per cent of patients with focal renal arteriosclerosis and in 72 per cent of those exhibiting overt extrarenal arteriosclerosis.
Determination of aromatic compounds in water by solid phase microextraction and ultraviolet absorption spectroscopy. 1. Methodology

A simple method is described for determining aromatic compounds (i.e., benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, etc.) in water that combines solid phase microextraction (SPME) and ultraviolet (UV) absorption spectroscopy. The extraction medium consists of a small “chip” of poly(dimethylsiloxane) (total volume of ∼80 μL) that is immersed in a water sample contaminated with an aromatic compound. Equilibrium is first allowed to establish between the analyte in the water and the extraction medium, and the concentration of the aromatic compound is then determined directly in the sorbent chip by UV spectroscopy. Calibration information on this new method was obtained for 11 aromatic compounds commonly found in unleaded gasoline (e.g., benzene, toluene, naphthalene, etc). It was found that equilibrium is established in the range of 30−50 min, with the exception of 1-methylnaphthalene and naphthalene, which equilibrated within 100 min. Detection limits for the aromatic compounds at their equilibration times range from 0.4...
Adolescent Latina Bodyspaces: Making Homegirls, Homebodies and Homeplaces

This essay examines the local, everyday practices of heteropatriarchal power—dominating and resisting power, through which young Latina women negotiate teenage, sexual and gender subjectivity and spatial ordering of young heterosexual bodies. Their negotiations are shaped by and give shape to the material, discursive and representational social spaces of Los Angeles, worsening “landscapes of neglect” attributable to the changing geographies of private and public investment. Their narratives convey and construct a visceral experience of being tied, materially and discursively, to homely spaces as young carers, and their struggle to untie their competencies to the private, domestic sphere, or “inside,” and their vulnerabilities to the public sphere, or “outside.” In their struggle, the young Latinas variously reproduce, rework and resist the dominant norms and materiality of local places and their dispositionality in bodily terms.
‘Eadem, sed aliter’: Arthur Schopenhauer as a Critic of ‘Progress’

SummaryScholars have tended to overlook the political import of the ideas of Arthur Schopenhauer (1788–1860). This is perhaps unsurprising, since Schopenhauer himself was not a political philosopher and wrote relatively little about political matters. But Schopenhauer's near-silence on political topics should warrant our attention: why would a systematic philosopher, who made lasting contributions in metaphysics, ethics, and aesthetics, devote so little attention to politics? Connecting his political thought with his philosophy of history, I argue that Schopenhauer can best be regarded as a critic of the idea of progress, especially ‘progress’ conceived of as national development or the growth of the state.
Self-expanding metallic stents in the treatment of benign colorectal disease: indications and outcomes

Objective The use of stents for benign colorectal obstruction is considered controversial because of a lack of data and perceived high failure and complication rates. The aim of this study was to evaluate the indications and outcomes following stent placement for benign colorectal disease in a UK district general hospital and to review the published literature. Patients and methods Between 1997 and 2004, 11 of 90 attempted stent insertions were performed for benign colorectal disease (diverticular disease, 4; anastomotic strictures, 4; idiopathic rectal stricture, 1; rectal endometriosis, 1; caecal volvulus, 1). Complications and outcomes were analysed from a prospective database. Results Stent insertion was successful in nine patients. Early complications occurred in two patients (both with diverticular disease): one patient failed to decompress and needed a colostomy and laparotomy was performed in a second patient who developed peritonitis after five days although no stent perforation of the bowel was identified. Two patients were successfully decompressed and underwent subsequent elective surgery with full bowel preparation. Stent placement resulted in symptomatic improvement in three out of four patients with anastomotic strictures (allowing closure of defunctioning stomas) and in the one patient with an idiopathic rectal stricture. Stent migration occurred in two of these patients without recurrence of symptoms. Stent fracture occurred in one patient, who remained symptomatic. Conclusions Self-expanding metallic stents are an effective treatment for benign colorectal obstructions, especially anastomotic strictures with long-term patency. Stents should be avoided in acute diverticular disease because of a higher incidence of complications.
Livelihood activities in a Namibian wildlife conservancy: a case study of variation within a CBNRM programme

Approaches to community-based natural resource management tend to vary among programmes based on the needs and characteristics of the communities in which the programmes operate. Variation also exists within individual programmes, creating the potential for conflict if management does not recognize that these differences can indicate competing interests and needs. In this study we examine livelihood activities at the household level in a wildlife conservancy along the Kwando River in the Caprivi region of Namibia. We ask how people in the conservancy make their livelihoods and what differences exist between the conservancy’s riverside and inland populations. The study finds that the inland population, c. 20 km from the river on slightly heavier soils, engages in fewer livelihood activities and has greater food security than does the riverside population. We further establish that differences between the two populations are significant enough to indicate two distinct combinations of livelihood activities with different environmental interactions. These findings suggest that any management action taken by the conservancy will affect household livelihoods differently based on location and that these differences must be considered if the conservancy is to make a successful transition from a subsistence-based agricultural system to a wildlife-based economy.
Photometry of Saturn's satellites: The opposition effect of Iapetus at maximum light and the variability of Titan

Abstract We present photometry, V and (B - V), of Iapetus at six western elongations (the phase of maximum brightness) that span a range in solar phase, α, from ≈6° to 0.12 mag (V), is present. We make a few cautious remarks about the possible relevance of the use of this result to interpret the phase curve of Saturn's ring. We also give a few measures of Rhea and Hyperion, at α ≊ 0.3° , and more of Titan, which indicate that the latter has been anomalously bright during much of 1973 and 1974, sometimes by nearly 0.1 mag (V).
A mathematical model in graph theory for biological classification.

Abstract A mathematical method for biological classification is defined. This method, which employs some of the basic notions of graph theory, is derived from three fundamental principles of phenotypic biological classification. The procedures together with their biological justifications are presented in detail. These procedures have been programmed for digital computer analysis and successfully applied to several botanical problems.
A very short, fairly interesting and reasonably cheap book about studying organizations

A very short, fairly interesting and reasonably cheap book about studying organizations, 2nd ed., by Chris Grey, Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage, 2009, 208 pp., $28.95 ISBN 9781847873439 Chris Grey argues ...
Assessment matters: The why and how of cracking open and using assessment results

The authors interviewed two dozen educators at several institutions to better understand how data from the National Survey of Student Engagement were (or were not) being used. Their results offer guidance to those with dusty data binders on their shelves.
The Nature of the Refutation Text Effect: An Investigation of Attention Allocation

ABSTRACT Students often hold misconceptions that conflict with scientific explanations. Research has shown that refutation texts are effective for facilitating conceptual change in these cases (Guzzetti, Snyder, Glass, & Gamas, 1993). The process through which refutation texts have their effect is not clear. The authors replicated and extended previous research investigating cognitive processes involved in the refutation text effect. Undergraduates read either a refutation or an expository text on seasonal change. Individual reading times were recorded. Participants’ conceptions were measured at pretest, posttest, and delayed posttest. Results showed that readers spent less time reading the refutation paragraph compared to the expository paragraph. The refutation text group had fewer misconceptions at posttest. These findings suggest that refutation text processing differences mirror similar findings in the attention literature, which may account for their effectiveness.
Insights on slip transmission at grain boundaries from atomistic simulations

Abstract To fully understand the plastic deformation of metallic polycrystalline materials, the physical mechanisms by which a dislocation interacts with a grain boundary must be identified. Recent atomistic simulations have focused on the discrete atomic scale motions that lead to either dislocation obstruction, dislocation absorption into the grain boundary with subsequent emission at a different site along the grain boundary, or direct dislocation transmission through the grain boundary into the opposing lattice. These atomistic simulations, coupled with foundational experiments performed to study dislocation pile-ups and slip transfer through a grain boundary, have facilitated the development and refinement of a set of criteria for predicting if dislocation transmission will occur and which slip systems will be activated in the adjacent grain by the stress concentration resulting from the dislocation pile-up. This article provides a concise review of both experimental and atomistic simulation efforts focused on the details of slip transmission at grain boundaries in metallic materials and provides a discussion of outstanding challenges for atomistic simulations to advance this field.
Stimulation of sulfate and thymidine incorporation into hypophysectomized rat cartilage by growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor-I in vitro: The somatomedin hypothesis revisited

These studies were undertaken in an attempt to demonstrate sensitivity of cartilage from hypophysectomized rats to growth hormone (GH) in physiologic concentrations in vitro and to compare the actions of the hormone and extrinsic insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I). A HEPES-buffered, amino acid-glucose nutrient medium with a low concentration of bovine serum albumin, costal cartilage explants from such animals was responsive to purified or recombinant bovine GH (bGH) and recombinant human GH (hGH) with a sensitivity of less than 100 ng/ml. Sulfate incorporation into proteoglycans and thymidine incorporation into DNA were increased. The effect on sulfate incorporation was near maximal by 24 hours, but the peak effect on thymidine incorporation was delayed. Comparison of the dose-response relationships of bGH and IGF-I demonstrated a greater effect of IGF-I with increasing concentrations of each. The action of bGH was inhibited by an immunoglobulin G fraction of an IGF-I antiserum. These results are consistent with previously available evidence that IGF-I has an autocrine/paracrine action on cartilage, which is regulated by GH. However, the limited cartilage response to the direct action of GH supports the hypothesis of Daughaday that IGF-I also has an endocrine role in the stimulation of skeletal growth by the pituitary hormone.
Underground nuclear power plants with surface turbine generators

Abstract This study has produced conceptual designs for light-water reactor underground nuclear power plants with portions of the plant at the surface. The investment cost penalty for underground excavation and cavity lining less interest during construction and escalation attributed to the underground portion of the plant at a favorable geologic site was estimated at between 3 and 4% above a comparable surface plant. The power plant turbine-generator was assumed to be at the surface and the reactor placed underground. Other equipment was located underground on the basis of a hazards analysis or by a functional relationship to the reactor. A guideline was adopted that the nuclear steam supply system and other principal subsystems should not require major redesign. Although some component relocation was allowable, it was permitted only if system performance and component operation were thought to be essentially unaffected. Plant size was stipulated as a single unit of 1000 MW(e) net which was not varied to determine an optimum size or number of units. Condenser cooling methods considered included natural convection wet cooling towers as well as once-through condenser cooling. In both the boiling-water (BWR) and pressurized-water (PWR) plant designs, four underground chambers are proposed to efficiently house the underground equipment. One of the four chambers is needed for the reactor and steam supply system. It is conceivable, if only reactor hazard protection is desired, that the equipment in two of the chambers (the nuclear auxiliaries and relay and switching) could be installed within a surface building. The location of the emergency core cooling system (ECCS) components as presently configured in surface plants relative to the nuclear steam supply system is critical to the satisfactory operation of the ECCS. In some situations the ECCS must draw water from the reactor area. The need for a positive head from this area to the appropriate pumps implies the pumps must be placed lower in elevation than the source of water. Consequently, it was appropriate to locate these ECCS components in a separate underground chamber near the reactor chamber.
Competition among desert perennials

THE accurate description of horizontal patterns of distribution and the determination of the mechanisms resulting in these patterns1,2 are primary objectives of plant ecology. Although there have been many studies of horizontal patterns, most investigations have not proceeded beyond the initial stage of detection and analysis of pattern, leaving suggestions of causation untested. Controlled field experiments that test mechanisms which may regulate distributions are rare3. We have designed a controlled field experiment to evaluate the effects of intra- and interspecific interactions affecting two distinct horizontal patterns, thereby providing a test of current plant distribution theory.
Impact of dental conditions on patients'quality of life

– Quality of life measures have rarely been used in dentistry to assess oral health status. The purpose of this paper is to assess the utility of using standard indicators to measure the impacts of dental conditions on patients’ quality of life. Quality of life was conceptualized as a multidimensional construct including three major aspects: social functioning, measured by the Sickness Impact Profile; well-being, measured by the Gill Well-Being Scale, Spielberger State/Trait Anxiety Scale, and the Corah Dental Anxiety Scale; and symptoms, measured by the Kiyak Oral Functioning Scale, the McGill Pain Questionnaire, and the West Haven Multidimensional Pain Inventory. 152 patients were recruited from private dental practices consisting of 48 TMJ, 33 periodontal, 23 denture, and 48 recall patients. Patients in the first three groups reported numerous impacts on quality of life and the impacts were particularly severe for the TMI patients. The indicators used were sensitive to differences among the four groups and hold promise for further development of quality of life indicators for use in epidemiologic surveys and clinical dental trials.
Cellular Interactions That Guide Sensory and Motor Neurites Identified in an Embryo Slice Preparation

We used cultured cross sections ("slices") of avian embryos to identify interactions that guide neurites during their encounters with seven tissues that impose a stereotyped gross anatomical nerve pattern. We show that cultured slices retain tissue morphology, molecular distribution patterns, and guidance cues. They also allow us to directly visualize responses of labeled sensory and motor neurons deposited on the slice's surface. This assay has high predictive power. Contact-mediated avoidance or stimulation and long-range attraction or repulsion are each distinguishable because each predicts different neurite lengths and trajectories. The analysis shows that all but one of these mechanisms contributes to guidance. Three tissues similarly stimulated neurite elongation, suggesting common responses to a contact-mediated stimulation. Four tissues similarly elicited avoidance on contact, suggesting a common contact-mediated inhibition. Neurite orientations implicate a previously unsuspected long-distance attraction to one tissue, dorsal anterior sclerotome. Long-range repulsion plays no detectable role. Each tissue elicits the same response in two different neural populations, sensory and motor neurons. These results suggest that a small set of repeated mechanisms mediates responses to tissues that axons contact serially during pathfinding.
Viability of the neonatal rat isolated brainstem preparation by 31P MRS

The isolated brainstem-spinal axis from the neonatal rat is an established model for studying neuronal responses of the ventilatory control system, however, its viability has not been clearly established. We studied the brainstem-spinal axis from newborn rats at 8.5 T with 31P NMR spectroscopy. The relative pattern of high energy phosphates (HEPs) was similar to that reported for the in vivo neonatal brain. The average pHi was 0.2 to 0.4 units less than the pHi for the in vivo neonatal brain. The HEPs and pHi were stable for 6 h, suggesting extended in vitro viability.
Histochemical demonstration of iron but not aluminum in a case of dialysis-associated osteomalacia

A patient undergoing hemodialysis is described in whom osteomalacia developed despite protracted treatment with calcitriol. Appropriately stained biopsy sections exhibited iron at all marrow-osteoid interfaces and a small fraction of trabecular mineralization fronts. Aluminum, the metal usually associated with osteomalacia in patients undergoing hemodialysis, was not histochemically demonstrable, even though spectrophotometrically measured bone aluminum content was substantial. These observations suggest two interpretations: iron may have caused osteomalacia through effects on bone cells and at mineralization fronts; alternatively, aluminum may have caused osteomalacia while remaining histochemically undetectable. It is possible that both metals exerted toxic effects simultaneously.
Development of newly metamorphosed juvenile sea urchins (Strongylocentrotus franciscanus and S. purpuratus): morphology, the effects of temperature and larval food ration, and a method for determining age

Abstract Following metamorphosis, juveniles of marine benthic invertebrates continue to develop traits that allow them to function and survive in their (new) non-pelagic environment. The sensitivity of juvenile development to environmental conditions or larval quality, such as nutritional condition, are not well understood. This study presents descriptions of trait development that allow species identification of newly metamorphosed juvenile sea urchins Strongylocentrotus franciscanus and S. purpuratus . Following metamorphosis, these two species were distinguishable for at least 3 weeks by different patterns of coronal and aboral pedicellariae. Temperature studies, conducted at three environmentally relevant levels (8, 11, and 14°C) show that developmental rates varied, but the order in which structures formed and became functional in the first 2 weeks after metamorphosis were not affected by temperature. Juvenile feeding begins 9 days after metamorphosis at 14°C and after other traits have developed. Based on suites of traits, we identified juvenile stages and quantified effects of temperature on rate of development (stage day −1 ) with nonparametric regression and with a temperature coefficient, Q 10 . Additional laboratory studies on S. purpuratus show that larval food ration strongly affects the rate of juvenile trait development prior to and after the onset of feeding by juveniles. Comparisons of size of juvenile rudiments and size at metamorphosis between larvae reared in the laboratory at two food levels and wild-caught larvae and juveniles from coastal Oregon (USA) indicate those from the field were well fed and developed at rapid rates. The above information was used to develop a procedure for aging field caught juveniles (≤2 weeks after metamorphosis), provided their thermal history is known. This procedure can be adapted for other invertebrates that acquire traits in an orderly fashion and can be used, in addition to sampling-intensive surveys, to investigate recruitment dynamics in benthic populations.
Near-Infrared Spectrometry of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm in the ApoE-/- Mouse

Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) occur in 5−7% of people over age 60 in the United States. Early intervention in the disease process could have a significant impact on the incidence of complications and on patient survival, but identifying incipient aneurysms can be difficult. ApoE knockout mice develop AAAs following infusion of angiotensin II (AngII) by osmotic minipump into the subcutaneous space of mice at doses ranging from 500 to 1000 ng kg-1 min-1 for 7−28 days. These mice are used as models of AAA development. This study tested the hypothesis that near-IR spectrometry and PCR can determine AngII dose (SEE = 26 ng kg-1 min-1, SEP = 37 ng kg-1 min-1, r2 = 0.99) and collagen/elastin (C/E) ratio (SEE = 0.38, SEP = 0.39, r2 = 0.85) in mouse aortas.
The need for evaluation of the ultimate impact of continuing pharmaceutical education.

Many governmental agencies and professional associations are using continuing education as the single, and relatively untested, means of ensuring that professionals maintain an acceptable level of knowledge and skills. The ultimate goal of continuing education in the health professions is improved professional performance leading to an improvement in the quality of health care provided. However, there is justifiable concern over the lack of a significant link between participation in continuing education activities and professional competence. This issue is explored and a conceptual framework for the evaluation of continuing pharmaceutical education is presented. The conceptual framework is an evaluation hierarchy which depicts the following four levels of a comprehensive evaluation process: 1) participant satisfaction; 2) changes in knowledge, attitudes, and skills; 3) behavior change in practice setting; and 4) improvement in patient care.
A COMFA ANALYSIS OF SELECTED PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OF AMINO ACIDS IN WATER

The CoMFA methodology was applied successfully to the analysis of logD, the logarithm of the octanol-water distribution coefficient, of free amino acids and their amino acetylated, carboxy amidated derivatives. A learning set of 38 molecules and a test set of 9 molecules was used. -logS, the negative logarithm of the solubility in water, was also examined with a learning set of 19 amino acids. In each case the best results were obtained with the backbone of the residues on an extended conformation and the NCαCβCγ dihedral angle set to −60.0°. A combination of fields was used in the calculations: the default Tripos steric and electrostatic fields with the default probe, a sp3 carbon atom with a + 1 charge, and a GRID field with a water probe. The GRID field which measures hydrogen bonding makes the sole contribution to the optimal model for logD. This result is consistent with the importance of the hydrophobic effect. An electrostatic field is also required in the model for -logS. The inclusion of the electrostatic term may reflect the contribution to -logS made by crystal-packing forces.
Utilization of dashboard technology in academic radiology departments: results of a national survey.

Purpose The aim of this study was to identify the most widely used financial, productivity, and accessibility metrics used by academic radiology departments (ARDs) in a dashboard format via a national survey. The results provide a guide to the selection of preferred or commonly used indicators to facilitate dashboard implementation and use. Methods The study met the criteria for an exemption from institutional review board approval. A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a survey approved by the Society of Chairs of Academic Radiology Departments and sent to its members. The survey was designed to evaluate the adoption, access, and composition of dashboard technology in ARDs, particularly those related to measures of productivity and financial performance. Results The overall response rate was 42% (56 of 131 members). Sixty-two percent of responding ARDs currently use some form of dashboard technology, but 50% have used this technology for ≤2 years. Sixty-five percent of all ARDs use their dashboard information on a monthly basis. The two dashboard financial indicators most frequently used by ARDs are revenue and actual expenses. Similarly, the two productivity indicators used most widely are total examination volume and examination volume per modality. The two most important access indicators used are report turnaround time and backlog per unit time. Conclusions Currently, fewer than two-thirds of the responding ARDs use dashboard technology, and one-half have used the technology for ≤2 years. Although some fiscal and productivity indices are more frequently used, there are a diverse number of factors used to measure productivity, finance, access, and other operational parameters in ARD dashboards. Thus, the information provided by each institutional dashboard may be significantly different from that in other ARDs.
Intervention with Overtly Rejecting Parents: A Suggestion for a Collaborative Legal and Psychiatric Approach

Abstract A review of 18 cases involving overt parental rejection of a child revealed a strikingly pessimistic prognosis for reconciliation through psychiatric intervention alone. However, the invocation of legal pressure seemed instrumental in motivating the decision of a small number of parents to reconcile with their children. The suggestion is made, therefore, that psychiatric intervention be made early and with conviction, and be joined with a legal intervention if signs of failure become evident.
Consumer input for developing human food products made with sorghum grain.

: Because sorghum grain has important characteristics (for example, great antioxidant profile) for introduction into the regular human diet, producers and industry aim to develop successful products using sorghum as the base. The 1st step in developing products attractive for consumers is understanding consumer needs and expectations. Conjoint analysis determines attributes which may be important or unimportant for one product. In this study, focus groups and conjoint analysis were used to establish which attributes are helpful for promoting purchase intent of sorghum grain products. Once those characteristics were chosen, a national survey was conducted to confirm the selection. During the focus groups, the heath aspects of grain products seemed to be the most appealing for consumers, whereas conjoint analysis showed that sensory attributes were the principal drivers for purchase intent. Practical Application: The data presented in this study are essential for industry as a starting point for developing sorghum grain based food products. It is necessary to address consumers’ demands to ensure new products’ success in the market, and the present study clearly shows this consumers’ input.
Why Many Infrared Astronomical Sources emit at 100 µm

RECENT far infrared observations indicate that three general features characterize many galactic sources: (1) the flux at 100 µm is far greater than at the shorter 20 µm, 10 µm and 5 µm wavelengths1 (Fig. 1); (2) at the shorter wavelengths sources appear more compact and (3) there is a rough proportionality between the total infrared luminosity and the intensity of the thermal radio emission from these sources2.
Concurrency control for distributed real-time databases

The concurrency control of transactions in a real-time database must satisfy not only the consistency constraints of the database but also the timing constraints of individual transactions. In this paper, we present a real-time concurrency control protocol that can be used in a distributed and decomposable real-time database. The protocol is based on the integration of a modular concurrency control theory with a real-time scheduling protocol called the priority ceiling protocol. This protocol supports the replication of data objects and avoids the formation of deadlocks. Finally, an analysis of the performance of this protocol is presented.
Unrestricted principal components analysis of brain electrical activity: Issues of data dimensionality, artifact, and utility

Principal components analysis (PCA) was performed on the 1536 spectral and 2944 evoked potential (EP) variables generated by neurophysiologic paradigms including flash VER, click AER, and eyes open and closed spectral EEG from 202 healthy subjects aged 30 to 80. In each case data dimensionality of 1500 to 3000 was substantially reduced using PCA by magnitudes of 20 to over 200. Just 20 PCA factors accounted for 70% to 85% of the variance. Visual inspection of the topographic distribution of factor loading scores revealed complex loadings across multiple data dimensions (time-space and frequency-space). Forty-two non-artifactual factors were successful in classifying age, gender, and a separate group of 60 demented patients by linear discriminant analysis. Discrimination of age and gender primarily involved EP derived factors, whereas dementia primarily involved EEG derived factors. Thirty-eight artifactual factors were identified which, alone, could not discriminate age but were relatively successful in discriminating gender and dementia. The need to parsimoniously develop real neurophysiologic measures and to objectively exclude artifact are discussed. Unrestricted PCA is suggested as a step in this direction.
MixT: automatic generation of step-by-step mixed media tutorials

Users of complex software applications often learn concepts and skills through step-by-step tutorials. Today, these tutorials are published in two dominant forms: static tutorials composed of images and text that are easy to scan, but cannot effectively describe dynamic interactions; and video tutorials that show all manipulations in detail, but are hard to navigate. We hypothesize that a mixed tutorial with static instructions and per-step videos can combine the benefits of both formats. We describe a comparative study of static, video, and mixed image manipulation tutorials with 12 participants and distill design guidelines for mixed tutorials. We present MixT, a system that automatically generates step-by-step mixed media tutorials from user demonstrations. MixT segments screencapture video into steps using logs of application commands and input events, applies video compositing techniques to focus on salient infor-mation, and highlights interactions through mouse trails. Informal evaluation suggests that automatically generated mixed media tutorials were as effective in helping users complete tasks as tutorials that were created manually.
A NORMAL LAW FOR MATCHINGS

For a simple graph G, let be the size of a matching drawn uniformly at random from the set of all matchings of G. Motivated by work of C. Godsil [11], we give, for a sequence and , several necessary and sufficient conditions for asymptotic normality of the distribution of , for instance (where E and is the size of a largest matching in ). In particular this gives asymptotic normality for any sequence of regular graphs (of positive degree) or graphs with perfect matchings. When tends to a finite limit, a sufficient (and probably necessary) condition is given for to be asymptotically Poisson. The material presented here suggests numerous related questions, some of which are discussed in the last section of the paper.
Experimental verification of a simple method to avoid isotopic biases resulting from hyperfine structure in resonant ionization mass spectroscopy

Abstract Hyperfine structure plays a major role in producing “anomalous” odd-to-even isotope ratios in the stepwise excitation, ionization and mass analysis of an element with broad bandwidth, long-pulsed lasers. PAYNE et al. [ Spectrochim Acta 46B , 1439 (1992)] proposed that these anomalies may be avoided by cautious application of a simple prescription. We test the prediction by conducting a one-color, two-step ionization experiment on Sn at sufficient laser intensity such that the power-broadened width of a selected resonant transition exceeds the laser bandwidth. The laser is detuned from resonance by an amount greater than the laser bandwidth but less than the power-broadened width. The data obtained in our study confirm the prediction that a slightly detuned resonant ionization scheme effectively eliminates odd/even isotope ionization biases and that operating at adequate laser intensity produces a fairly wide detuning regime over which faithful odd/even isotope ratios are expected. Specifically, detunings of 5–10 cm −1 are sufficient to eliminate these biases in the two-photon stepwise (1 + 1) ionization by way of 3 P 0 → 3 P 1 resonance in tin (Sn) at a laser power density of 10 8 W cm −2 .
Minimization of sensitivity in distributed-active circuits

Abstract In this paper the characteristics of two well-known distributed-active circuits are examined. One of these is found to be preferable for the minimization of Q-sensitivity, the other for the minimization of the Q-sensitivity-gain product. Additional degrees of freedom are introduced in the circuits by permitting the separate distributed subnetworks to vary in relative length and taper. A nested optimization technique is applied to the networks to obtain the minimum Q-sensitivity-gain product. The optimization is shown to produce a new distributed-active circuit whose performance is superior to that of the original ones.
P3C-2 Ultrasound Energy Rapidly Labels Stem/Progenitor Cells with Nanoparticle Beacons without Disrupting Membrane Integrity

Stem/progenitor cells participate in many pathological and regenerative processes, which can be studied in vivo with molecular imaging approaches. Labeling cells with contrast agents for non-invasive imaging and tracking typically requires long exposure times or adjunctive methods, such as electroporation or transfection agents that can compromise cell viability. We have previously utilized perfluorocarbon (PFC) nanoparticles (~200 nm) for cell tracking, but this process entailed 12 hours of incubation to achieve efficient cellular labeling. We sought to develop an approach that reduces the prolonged labeling time by enhancing PFC nanoparticle-to-cell interactions using clinical levels of ultrasound energy. Stem/progenitor (CD34+ CD133+ CD31+ ) cells were derived from human umbilical cord mononuclear cells grown in fibronectin- coated OptiCelltrade cassettes. Ultrasound (US) was applied using a medical imaging system (Acuson Sequoia) and broadband (2-3 MHz) phased array transducer, which was coupled to cells in a heated (37degC) waterbath. The transducer was advanced mechanically to expose the entire surface to calibrated levels of US energy (MI: 1.9, frequency: 2 MHz). Estimated exposure time for individual cells was ~5 min. Results: Flow cytometry revealed US application greatly improved labeling when compared with cells not exposed to US (55plusmn9% vs. 17plusmn12% respectively, p<0.001). This approaches the labeling efficiency achieved in the 12-hr incubation method (71plusmn4%). Under conditions of energy (ATP) depletion (20 mM sodium azide, 50 mM 2-deoxyglucose), augmentation of labeling with US application was prevented (3.6plusmn0.8% vs. 4.0plusmn1.6%, with and without US, respectively). US exposure did not compromise cell membrane integrity based on calcein dye exclusion. Cell viability was equivalent for the untreated and US-exposed cells (-90% viable each). We conclude that ultrasound-enhanced cell labeling with PFC nanoparticles is safe and rapid, achieving sufficient labeling with only 5 minutes of exposure at clinical frequencies and power levels. The labeling process depends on active cellular transport mechanisms (i.e., ATP) and is quite distinct from typical acoustic delivery methods, which must alter or disrupt the cell membrane to achieve delivery (e.g., sonoporation, cavitation). This unique approach should facilitate investigation of regenerative therapeutics by providing a safe adjunctive method to label cells for real-time tracking.
Interpolation and approximation of 3-D and 4-D scattered data

Abstract Given a set of 3-D or 4-D scattered data, methods are presented that yield a bivariate or trivariate function that interpolate or approximate the given data. The subroutine package includes Hardy's multiquadric interpolant and multistage methods with many options available to the user, thus several different interpolation and approximation methods can be generated. The options available in the multistage methods can be effectively used if the data set is noisy, rapidly varying or nonuniformly distributed. The computational and storage requirements for the multistage methods are linear in the number of data points, thus they are efficient on large data sets.
Risk factors for coronary heart disease among inpatients who have mild intellectual disability and mental illness.

Background Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the UK. The aim of this study was to screen inpatients with mild or borderline intellectual disability, many of whom also have mental illness, for risk factors for CHD. Methods Cross sectional survey. Participants were interviewed, measured and had blood samples taken. Results Of the 53 participants, 20 (37.7%) were overweight and 18 (34.0%) obese. The mean body mass index (BMI) of those participants prescribed regular antipsychotics was higher than those who were not. Nine (20.9%) had waist circumference measurements placing them at increased risk of CHD and 21 (48.8%) were at substantially increased risk. Twenty-eight (52.8%) were current smokers. Of the 49 participants who had their blood pressure measured, 3 (6.1%) had readings above the reference range. Of the 19 participants who had random blood tests, one (5.3%) had an elevated cholesterol level. Conclusions In this population there was a high prevalence of two risk factors for CHD (obesity and smoking), requiring ongoing monitoring and long-term measures to reduce risk.
Retrospective analysis of the adequacy of oral contrast material for computed tomography scans in trauma patients

Abstract Background: This study examined the adequacy of oral contrast (OC) in adult trauma patients, the differences in the incidence of pathology and other patient characteristics related to OC adequacy, and the incidence of OC-associated emesis. Methods: The cases of 129 adult trauma patients were reviewed from January to December 1996 for utilization of OC, administration time, time to computed tomography (CT), and emesis within 4 hours. CT films were reviewed for adequacy of OC (AC = adequate contrast, IC = inadequate contrast) and pathology. Results: Data are presented as median and range, or percentage and 95% confidence interval (CI). Pathology was found in 24% (CI 17% to 31%) and was not associated with AC. OC administration to CT was 14 minutes (0 to 139). IC was present for 60% (CI 52% to 69%). Subjects with IC had higher injury severity scores. 10% (CI 5% to 15%) with OC had emesis. Conclusion: OC is not necessary for diagnostic accuracy, and may contribute to patient morbidity or discomfort.
Dating is Hard Work: A Narrative Approach to Understanding Sexual and Romantic Relationships in Young Adulthood

This study utilized a qualitative approach informed by a narrative perspective to examine 57 young adults’ stories about sexual and romantic relationships. Participants (25 men and 32 women) were asked to define relationships in terms of how they know they are in a romantic or a sexual partnership. Young adults identified the language they use for different types of relationships, their perceptions of the hierarchy of romantic and sexual relationships, and their confusion or uncertainty about their relationship experiences. We discuss implications for clinicians working with young adults and provide suggestions for re-storying the confusing territory of intimate (and sometimes impersonal) interaction.
Retraining the Practicing Psychiatrist

The psychiatric community has been profoundly affected by managed care, but its response has been largely passive and defensive. Because many practicing psychiatrists have failed to adapt, they lack the skills and attitudes required to function effectively in the current and coming environment, and they will need to learn new ones. The academic health center may be one site of such learning, if the trainers themselves have first been trained. This article explores the nuances of the challenge and suggests a two-step process for addressing gaps in practice performance.
Equivalent-cone calculation of nitric oxide production rate during Space Shuttle re-entry

The amount of nitric oxide likely to be produced in the shock layer around a Space Shuttle orbiter vehicle during its reentry is calculated at one point on the trajectory. An equivalent-cone is defined as one that produces the same amount of nitric oxide as the orbiter. The amounts of nitric oxide produced by the cone are calculated at points along the trajectory to determine their total and altitudinal distribution. The results show that about 14 tonne nitric oxide is produced at each entry, the peak occurring at 68 km altitude.
Multiple Transitions to Non-B-DNA Structures Occur in the Distal Regulatory Region of the Rat Prolactin Gene

The developmentally regulated rat prolactin (rPRL) gene presents a promising model system toward understanding the biological role of non-B-DNA structural elements. Two predominantly alternating purine-pyrimidine (APP) (dA-dC)n.(dG-dT)n repeats of 58 and 178 base-pairs flank the (A + T)-rich distal regulatory region. We have characterized several transitions to non-B-DNA structures within this region in negatively supercoiled plasmids by utilizing high resolution chemical probing. Each repeat undergoes a full-length conversion to a novel left-handed helical structure via the stepwise nucleation and propagation of discrete "segments". These segments are delimited by out-of-alternation bases that are susceptible to attack by potassium permanganate and thus appear to be significantly unstacked within the left-handed helices. Moreover, the spatial order of successive right- to left-handed DNA transitions within each repeat exhibits a clear polarity toward the distal regulatory region of the rPRL gene. An additional transition involving the long-range unpairing of (A + T)-rich sequences establishes a directional propagation toward the regulatory region. These data demonstrate a complex series of quasi-independent transitions to non-B-DNA structures that impinge upon a known regulatory control region.
A linear backward Euler scheme for the saturation equation: Regularity results and consistency

We consider a linearization of a numerical scheme for the saturation equation (or porous medium equation) @[email protected][email protected][email protected]?f(S)[email protected][email protected]?k(S)@?S=0, through first order expansions of the fractional function f and the inverse of the function K(s)[email protected]!"0^sk(@t)[email protected], after a regularization of the porous medium equation. We establish a regularity result for the Continuous Galerkin Method and a regularity result for the linearized scheme analogous to the corresponding nonlinear scheme. We then show that the linearized scheme is consistent with the nonlinear scheme analyzed in a previous work.