cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Bayesian Approach to Determine Test Sample Size Requirements for Reliability Demonstration Retesting after Product Design Change

ABSTRACTLast minute design changes after already completed product validation testing is a common occurrence in the engineering world. It is also common for a redesigned product to be retested to demonstrate compliance with the original reliability requirements. Therefore, there is often a question of how to demonstrate the required reliability metrics without repeating already completed test flow on a redesigned product. This article discusses the application of Bayesian techniques to reduce the sample sizes required for retesting of engineering products/systems after design modification. This method utilizes attribute test data collected on previous version(s) of the product via success-based testing prior to the design change occurrence. The proposed method helps to reduce the test sample size for attribute testing while demonstrating the required reliability and helping to reduce the overall cost of a product development cycle.
Bistability Dynamics in Simulations of Neural Activity in High-Extracellular-Potassium Conditions

Modulation of extracellular potassium concentration ([K](o)) has a profound impact on the excitability of neurons and neuronal networks. In the CA3 region of the rat hippocampus synchronized epileptiform bursts occur in conditions of increased [K](o). The dynamic nature of spontaneous neuronal firing in high [K](o) is therefore of interest. One particular interest is the potential presence of bistable behaviors such as the coexistence of stable repetitive firing and fixed rest potential states generated in individual cells by the elevation of [K](o). The dynamics of repetitive activity generated by increased [K](o) is investigated in a 19-compartment hippocampal pyramidal cell (HPC) model and a related two-compartment reduced HPC model. Results are compared with those for the Hodgkin-Huxley equations in similar conditions. For neural models, [K](o) changes are simulated as a shift in the potassium reversal potential (E(K)). Using phase resetting and bifurcation analysis techniques, all three models are shown to have specific regions of E(K) that result in bistability. For activity in bistable parameter regions, stimulus parameters are identified that switch high-potassium model behavior from repetitive firing to a quiescent state. Bistability in the HPC models is limited to a very small parameter region. Consequently, our results suggest that it is likely some HPCs in networks exposed to high [K](o) continue to burst such that a stable, quiescent network state does not exist. In [K](o) ranges where HPCs are not bistable, the population may still exhibit bistable behaviors where synchronous population events are reversibly annihilated by phase resetting pulses, suggesting the existence of a nonsynchronous network attractor.
Exfoliative Cytologic Screening: Tibe Papanicolaou Test

Exfoliative cytology, or the Papanicolaou (Pap) test, is an easily performed, noninvasive, and inexpensive procedure to screen for preinvasive and invasive cervical cancer. Women commonly seek gynecologic wellness care annually in order to receive the Pap test. However, the test's effectiveness as a screening tool for cancer of the cervix and its precursors has been questioned because of the high number of false‐negative results cited in the literature. The nurse clinician needs to be refamiliarized with current techniques, methods, and nursing responsibilities in the area of exfoliative cytology in order to restore patients' and nurses' confidence in test results. The nurse clinician's responsibility in women's well‐ness care requires expertise in detection skills, quality assurance and control, and the maintenance of a therapeutic environment for learning and support. If exfoliative cytologic screening is to remain one of the mainstays of women's health maintenance, the nurse's role in explaining and evaluating the procedure must be effectively based on current research. This would be a significant step in ensuring the reliability of the screening results.
Appropriability and Market Structure in a Stochastic Invention Model

This research examines in the laboratory a class of game-theoretic equilibrium models of private research and development (R&D). We formulate a stochastic model of R&D investment whose predictions can be examined by using laboratory experiments. The noncooperative Nash equilibrium of our operational model yields testable predictions about the effects of appropriability and market structure on R&D. The experimental results support the hypothesis that the degree of appropriability is inversely related to R&D spending. The results strongly support the hypothesis that an increase in group size yields greater aggregate R&D. The noncooperative Nash equilibrium is shown to be a good predictor of central tendencies in the experiments.
Engaging students with community organizations by using computer technology

The engagement of information technology or computer science students in community affairs is a challenge in all institutions of higher learning. This paper proposes a paradigm for civic engagement through community-based learning. With the pervasiveness of computers throughout society, there is a growing demand for diligent IT/CS education to satisfy the growing needs of a multiplicity of enterprises. This paper describes one approach to teaching computer technology that requires students to develop systems for various community, school, and university organizations. There is a wide range of opportunities for civic engagement through community-based computer technology education. The benefits derived by the students and the clients receiving their services are many. An application of IT/CS based civic engagement is presented in this paper.
Safety assessment of biotechnology products for potential risk of food allergy: implications of new research.

Food allergy is a potential risk associated with use of transgenic proteins in crops. Currently, safety assessment involves consideration of the source of the introduced protein, in silico amino acid sequence homology comparisons to known allergens, physicochemical properties, protein abundance in the crop, and, when appropriate, specific immunoglobulin E binding studies. Recently conducted research presented at an International Life Sciences Institute/Health and Environmental Sciences Institute–hosted workshop adds to the scientific foundation for safety assessment of transgenic proteins in five areas: structure/activity, serum screening, animal models, quantitative proteomics, and basic mechanisms. A web-based tool is now available that integrates a database of allergenic proteins with a variety of computational tools which could be used to improve our ability to predict allergenicity based on structural analysis. A comprehensive strategy and model protocols have been developed for conducting meaningful serum screening, an extremely challenging process. Several animal models using oral sensitization with adjuvant and one dermal sensitization model have been developed and appear to distinguish allergenic from non-allergenic food extracts. Data presented using a mouse model suggest that pepsin resistance is indicative of allergenicity. Certain questions remain to be addressed before considering animal model validation. Gel-free mass spectrometry is a viable alternative to more labor-intensive approaches to quantitative proteomics. Proteomic data presented on four nontransgenic varieties of soy suggested that if known allergen expression in genetically modified crops falls within the range of natural variability among commercial varieties, there appears to be no need to test further. Finally, basic research continues to elucidate the etiology of food allergy.
C-Reactive Protein, Left Atrial Volume, and Atrial Fibrillation: A Prospective Study in High-Risk Elderly

Background: The data regarding the interrelationships of high-sensitive C-reactive protein (CRP), left atrial (LA) volume, and atrial fibrillation (AF) are sparse. Additionally, while LA volume has been shown to be useful for prediction of AF in low-to-moderate risk populations, its predictive value in clinically high-risk populations is unknown. Methods: SAFHIRE (Study of Atrial Fibrillation in High Risk Elderly) is an ongoing prospective study of the pathophysiology of first AF in persons aged ≥65 years with ≥2 other AF risk factors [systemic hypertension, proven coronary artery disease, heart failure (HF), diabetes]. Participants are followed annually, and undergo an interview, physical examination, blood work, electrocardiogram, and echocardiogram assessment. Results: Of 800 participants, mean age of 74 ± 6 years, 34 developed first AF over 1.7± 0.9 years. A history of systemic hypertension and proven coronary artery disease was present in 97% and 78%, respectively. CRP was unrelated to LA volume on univariable or multivariable analyses (P > 0.10), and not predictive of first AF on univariable or multivariable models (all P > 0.10). Indexed LA volume was an independent predictor of first AF (unadjusted P< 0.0001; age and sex adjusted P = 0.0006; adjusted for multiple factors, HR 1.3/5 ml per m2, 95% CI, 1.09 to 1.48, P = 0.001). Conclusion: In this elderly population at high clinical risk for the development of first AF, CRP was unrelated to LA volume and nonpredictive of first AF, while indexed LA volume was incremental to clinical risk factors for the prediction of first AF. (ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY 2010;27:394-399)
Recognition of Nine Base Pairs in the Minor Groove of DNA by a Tripyrrole Peptide−Hoechst Conjugate

A tripyrrole peptide−Hoechst conjugate (FPH-1) has been designed which recognizes nine dA/dT base pair A/T rich dsDNA sequences at subnanomolar concentrations and complexes its targets at near diffusion controlled rates to form a fluorescent product. Spectrofluorometric titrations show the stoichiometry of the complex to be (FPH-1)2:dsDNA. Spectrofluorometric titrations were also employed to determine the product of the equilibrium constant for complexation (K1K2) of dsDNA by two FPH-1 molecules for 35 different oligomeric duplexes. Single base pair mismatches in the FPH-1 binding site were found to cause significant decreases in K1K2 of 18- to 2300-fold. Thermal denaturation experiments provided similar results. Arguments are presented which favor the structure of the (FPH-1)2:dsDNA minor groove complex to involve the two FPH-1 molecules in a slightly staggered, side-by-side, and antiparallel arrangement such that the bis-benzimidazole moiety of one FPH-1 molecule lies adjacent to the tripyrrole moiety o...
Cholinergic mechanism of acid secretion in the dog: An in vivo and in vitro comparison☆

The effect of cholinergic stimulation on gastric acid secretion was examined in mongrel dogs using an in vivo and an in vitro preparation for comparison. The gastric fistula dog was used for the in vivo studies, and methacholine was infused directly into the artery supplying the fundus of the stomach to avoid systemic hemodynamic changes. Isolated parietal cells were used for the in vitro studies. In vivo, methacholine infused at 1 microgram/min was found to stimulate gastric acid secretion that was inhibited 98.5 +/- 1.4% by intravenously administered metiamide (H2 blocker) and 72 +/- 11% by intra-arterially administered glucagon. Glucagon had no effect on histamine stimulated acid secretion. In vitro, increasing concentrations of methacholine from 10(-7), 10(-6) to 10(-5) M stimulated [14C]aminopyrine uptake into parietal cells in a concentration dependent manner. This effect of methacholine was unaltered by 10(-4) M metiamide or 10(-6) M glucagon. However, atropine 10(-5) M totally blocked the stimulatory effect of methacholine. Our data suggest that the cholinergic mechanism of acid secretion is different when examined in vivo vs. in vitro even in the same species. In vivo histamine dependency has a major contribution to the cholinergic mechanism of acid secretion, whereas in vitro the interaction of the cholinergic agonist at the muscarinic receptor results in acid stimulation that does not require the presence of histamine.
Hyperacute renal allograft rejection from anti‐HLA class 1 antibody to B cells ‐antibody detection by two color FCXM was possible only after using pronase‐digested donor lymphocytes

We present a report of a transplant recipient who lost her renal allograft from hyperacute rejection. This was secondary to a weak IgG anti-HLA class I antibody that was only reactive to donor B lymphocytes. This antibody was not detected in her pretransplant serum by the conventional complement-dependent cytotoxicity assays using donor blood lymphocytes. Pretransplant sera were analyzed retrospectively by two-color flow cytometric crossmatching (FCXM). It was difficult to determine if the recipient's serum contained an IgG antibody specific for HLA on donor B cells since IgG from control AB sera and pretransplant sera bound equally well to CD19 B cells. However, when donor lymphocytes were pretreated with pronase to digest the membrane receptor for Fc domain of IgG (FcγR) on non-T-cells, control IgG in AB serum did not bind to B cells and, hence, it was easy to detect binding of IgG (in pretransplant sera) to HLA on B cells. This case underscores the importance of identifying weak anti-HLA class I antibodies reactive only to B cells. Moreover, it shows that the currently used two-color FCXM lacks the specificity to detect such antibodies.
Goal Interference, Perceived Consensus, and Preferences for Conflict‐Resolution Strategies

This study is a survey of recreational users (n= 85) of a scenic reservoir that was at the center of a controversy about whether the use of motorboats should be restricted or banned. We examined the hypothesis that the amount of goal interference that respondents experienced in the pursuit of recreational activities would be related to perceptions of consensus for their activities and for the regulations they preferred. We also hypothesized that perceived consensus would be related to greater preference for majority rule and less preference for compromise as the preferred strategy for resolving the conflict. Results show that goal interference was related to perceived consensus and that greater perceived consensus was related to unwillingness to compromise and preference for majority rule. Discussion centered on how perceptions about consensus arise from different experiences and on the role of perceived consensus in conflict resolution.
Elemental Abundance Ratios in Stars of the Outer Galactic Disk. II. Field Red Giants

We summarize a selection process to identify red giants in the direction of the southern warp of the Galactic disk, employing VIC photometry and multiobject spectroscopy. We also present results from follow-up high-resolution, high signal-to-noise echelle spectroscopy of three field red giants, finding [Fe/H] values of about -0.5. The field stars, with galactocentric distances estimated at 10?15 kpc, support the conclusion of Yong and coworkers that the Galactic metallicity gradient disappears beyond RGC values of 10?12 kpc for the older stars and clusters of the outer disk. We summarize the detailed abundance patterns for 15 other elements for these stars and compare them with recently obtained results for old open cluster red giants in the outer disk. The field and cluster stars at such large distances show very similar abundance patterns, and, in particular, all show enhancements of the ?-elements O, Mg, Si, Ca, and Ti and the r-process element Eu. These results suggest that Type II supernovae have been significant contributors to star formation in the outer disk relative to Type Ia supernovae within the past few gigayears. We also compare our results with those available for much younger objects. The limited results for the H II regions and B stars in the outer disk also suggest that the radial metallicity gradient in the outer disk is shallow or absent. The much more extensive results for Cepheids confirm these trends and that the change in slope of the metallicity gradient may occur at a larger galactocentric distance than for the older stars and clusters. However, the younger stars also show rising ?-element enhancements with increasing RGC, at least beyond 12 kpc. These trends are consistent with the idea of a progressive growth in the size of the Galactic disk with time and episodic enrichment by Type II supernovae as part of the disk's growth.
A note on fixed-point theorems

Abstract In an earlier note, S. P. Singh gave an extension of a theorem of Brosowski in a normed linear space setting. Variants of this theorem are considered in the context of strictly convex, reflexive, and inner product spaces.
Microstructure and mechanical properties of the Dy50(Cu50-xNix) intermetallic B2 CsCl-type compounds

The effects of Ni substitution for Cu in Dy50Cu50 on its structure and mechanical properties were investigated. Dy50Cu45Ni5 was single phase and Dy50Cu40Ni10 contained the B27 structure as a second phase. Transmission electron microscopy showed that the orientation relationship between B2 DyCu(Ni) and B27 DyNi(Cu) phases is ( 1 ¯ 2 1 ¯ ) B 2 ( 0 2 0 ) B 27 . Dy50Cu45Ni5 exhibits a similar tensile ductility as Dy50Cu50 and a higher strength, and a compression ductility somewhat less than Dy50Cu50 with a higher compressive strength. Dy50Cu40Ni10 has little plasticity.
Margin-Based Asset Pricing and the Determinants of the CDS Basis

The Credit Default Swap (CDS) basis was significantly negative during the 2007-2009 financial crisis, which was considered an anomaly. Using single-name CDS data, we find that the CDS basis decreases as the funding costs, credit risk premium, and market illiquidity increase. Further, cross-sectional results show that the sensitivities of the CDS basis to funding costs, credit risk premium, and market illiquidity are priced, even after controlling for the individual bond liquidity and other firm characteristics. The results are consistent with the margin-based asset pricing theories that the difference in margin requirements on two otherwise identical securities gives rise to bases.
Defining A Product Market for Spanish-Language Broadcast Media: Lessons from United States v. Univision Communications, Inc. and Hispanic Broadcasting

In 2003, a media merger with dramatic content and policy implications went largely unnoticed. Little attention was paid to the transaction because it did not affect the majority; it affected the largest minority population in the United States: Hispanics. Although up to 65% of Hispanics prefer Spanish-language media, most broadcast media now come from one corporation, Univision. In approving the consolidation of Univision and Hispanic Broadcasting, the FCC ignored product market findings by the Department of Justice as well as its own policy precedent, which includes numerous exceptions for Spanish programming to promote content and ownership diversity. Consistent with the FCC's mandate to protect the public interest, a demand-side analysis is undertaken, positioning the audience as consumer. Industry evidence, product market thresholds, and ownership rules are applied to United States v. Univision, Inc. and Hispanic Broadcasting, with the conclusion that a separate product market must exist for Spanish l...
Vibrational spectra and normal coordinate calculations for cis- and trans-1,2-dideuteriocyclobutanes

Abstract Gas-phase FT-IR spectra and liquid-phase Raman spectra have been measured for cis - and trans -1,2-dideuteriocyclobutanes. The bands were assigned by using the results of normal coordinate calculations and Raman depolarization measurements. The initial force constants considered were based on the ab initio scaled force field of Banhegyi et al. [ J. Mol. Struct. , 89, 1–13 (1982)]; they were then optimized using vibrational frequencies of cyclobutane-d 0 , and -d 8 , and cis - and trans -cyclobutane-1,2-d 2 . The final force field and approximate description of normal modes are reported, and assignment of cyclobutane vibrational spectra is discussed.
Dyslipoproteinemia and other risk factors for atherosclerosis in children and adolescents

The early lesions of atherosclerosis in youth are strongly related to antemortem levels of total and low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol, and triglyceride, to ponderal index and to systolic and diastolic blood pressure. The major apolipoproteins of LDL and high density lipoprotein (HDL), apo B and apo A1, respectively, as well as levels of Lp(a) lipoprotein are often abnormal in children born to a parent with coronary artery disease (CAD). Other risk factors for CAD include obesity, high blood pressure, cigarette smoking, diabetes mellitus, positive family history of CAD and physical inactivity. Children from families with premature CAD, familial dyslipidemia or hypertension, and/or two other risk factors should have a lipoprotein profile determined. The first form of treatment is a diet low in total fat, saturated fat and cholesterol, combined with treatment of overnutrition and obesity, if necessary, and regular habits of aerobic physical activity. Children with inherited disorders of LDL metabolism may require the addition of lipid lowering therapy. The early detection and treatment of youth at risk for premature CAD offers the greatest promise to decrease morbidity and mortality.
Producing and delivering a coursera MOOC on pattern-oriented software architecture for concurrent and networked software

A massive open online course (MOOC) is a web-based class environment aimed at large-scale global participation and open access via the Internet. MOOCs are also a disruptive trend changing how education is delivered and funded throughout the world. In the spring of 2013, we developed and taught Vanderbilt's first MOOC, entitled "Pattern-Oriented Software Architecture for Concurrent and Networked Software" (known as the POSA MOOC). This ten-week MOOC was an amalgamation of several courses on software design and programming taken by ~600 undergraduate and graduate students at Vanderbilt during the past decade. Enrollment in our POSA MOOC was more than 50 times (31,000+) that number, consisting of students with a wide range of backgrounds, interests, and expertise from scores of countries around the world.This paper describes our experiences producing and delivering the POSA MOOC. Where possible, we ground our observations in data from statistics collected via Coursera, which was the delivery platform we used for the POSA MOOC. We also discuss the broader implications of MOOCs on life-long learning and the role they play in improving the quality and productivity of software professionals in academia and industry.
Incorporation of sulfur in an optimized ladle steelmaking slag

CaO-Al2O3-SiO2=50-42-8 wt% eutectic slags, similar in composition to a secondary steelmaking slag, containing different amounts of CaS, were heated between 1673-1873 K. DTA was performed. Samples were characterized by EMP and XRD. Four main phases were present: CaO·Al2O3, 2CaO·Al2O3·SiO2, 2CaO·SiO2 and 23CaO·14Al2O3·CaS or 22CaO·14Al2O3·2CaS products of the reaction of CaS with 12CaO·7Al2O3 at 1349(±21)K. The sulfur phases crystallized first and the rest of the melt followed the well known CaO-Al2O3-SiO2 phase diagram. For comparison, typical ironmaking and steelmaking slags (CaO-Al2O3-SiO2=48-12-40 wt%) were also utilized to study the incorporation of sulfur in their structure. The resulting phases were all glasses with some non-stoichiometry.
The mechanism of blood pressure depression by ellagic acid.

SummaryThe mechanism of the blood pressure fall produced by ellagic acid was evaluated. Pretreatment of rats with diphenhydramine hydrochloride, compound 48/80, or dextran significantly reduced the...
Dynamo model of double radio sources

A model of radio sources is proposed in which the magnetised accretion disk of a massive black hole acts as an electric dynamo producing two oppositely-directed beams of ultra-relativistic particles.
EFFECT OF PARTICIPATION IN TAEKWONDO ON COLLEGE WOMEN'S SELF-CONCEPT

A sample of 51 women enrolled in Taekwondo classes and 49 women enrolled in 4 sections of general health courses were administered the Tennessee Self-concept Scale to assess the effect of participation in Taekwondo on self-concept. Using analysis of covariance, with pretest scores as the covariate, significant differences were found on total self-concept and on subscale scores in physical, personal, social, identity, and satisfaction. Nonsignificant differences were found on moral-ethical, family, behavior, and self-criticism scales.
The 2008 Guinea Conakry coup: Neither inevitable nor inexorable

This article examines the issue of democratic governance in Guinea–Conakry and the impact that international donors had on the political debate in the last years of the Conte regime. Our contention here is that there was and continues to be an evolving pluralism and embryo group of self-defined civil society organisations in both urban and rural Guinea but as a result of the December 2008 military coup opportunities have been lost in the promotion of democratic governance and more pluralistic group dynamics in Guinea. Support for indigenous (and self-defined) civil society groups, including the development of political parties by the international community, is essential to the return to institutionalised governance.
Ecometrics in the Age of Big Data Measuring and Assessing “Broken Windows” Using Large-scale Administrative Records

The collection of large-scale administrative records in electronic form by many cities provides a new opportunity for the measurement and longitudinal tracking of neighborhood characteristics, but one that will require novel methodologies that convert such data into research-relevant measures. The authors illustrate these challenges by developing measures of “broken windows” from Boston’s constituent relationship management (CRM) system (aka 311 hotline). A 16-month archive of the CRM database contains more than 300,000 address-based requests for city services, many of which reference physical incivilities (e.g., graffiti removal). The authors carry out three ecometric analyses, each building on the previous one. Analysis 1 examines the content of the measure, identifying 28 items that constitute two independent constructs, private neglect and public denigration. Analysis 2 assesses the validity of the measure by using investigator-initiated neighborhood audits to examine the “civic response rate” across ...
The backward incidence of pollution control in a rigid-wage economy

Abstract The backward incidence of pollution controls onto the polluting and nonpolluting industries is examined in a two-sector, rigid-wage economy characterized by unemployment in both the short run and the long run. As expected, more restrictive pollution controls result in contraction in the polluting sector and expansion in the nonpolluting sector. Somewhat unexpectedly, national income may rise with stronger pollution controls, if the polluting industry is relatively capital intensive.
Racial variation in tubal sterilization rates: role of patient-level factors

Objective To assess racial differences in attitudes and knowledge about sterilization. Design Cross-sectional survey. Setting Questionnaires were mailed to participants' home addresses. Patient(s) One hundred ninety-three women, aged 18–45, who had undergone tubal sterilization. Intervention(s) None. Main Outcome Measure(s) Attitudes and knowledge about tubal sterilization and awareness of contraceptive alternatives. Result(s) We received 193 completed surveys (64% response rate). African American (AA) woman were more likely to have a family member who had undergone tubal sterilization, to report that their mothers influenced their sterilization decisions, and to report that prior unintended pregnancy and desire to avoid insertion of a foreign object were very important factors in their decision to choose sterilization over other methods. Compared with white women, AA women more often thought that sterilization reversal could easily restore fertility (62% vs. 36%); that a woman's sterilization would reverse itself after 5 years (60% vs. 23%); and that a man cannot ejaculate after vasectomy (38% vs. 13%). Fewer AA women had ever heard of intrauterine contraception (90% vs. 98%). Racial differences in knowledge remained statistically significant after adjusting for socioeconomic confounders. Conclusion(s) Misinformation about sterilization and limited awareness of contraceptive alternatives among AA women may contribute to racial disparities in tubal sterilization rates.
The greatest dimension of prostate carcinoma is a simple, inexpensive predictor of prostate specific antigen failure in radical prostatectomy specimens.

BACKGROUND Tumor volume in radical prostatectomies can be determined by several different techniques and appears to predict clinical progression. Greatest tumor dimension and area are easily obtained measures that are both correlated with tumor volume. The authors sought to determine whether greatest tumor dimension and/or area were predictors of prostate specific antigen (PSA) failure in men who underwent radical prostatectomy for adenocarcinoma of the prostate. METHODS Fifty-seven men with prostate carcinoma who underwent surgical resection were followed for a median of 27.2 months (range, 1-112 months); 24 (42%) of these men had PSA failure. Preoperative PSA, Gleason grade, pathologic stage, margin status, and greatest tumor dimension and area were determined, and both univariate and multivariate analyses of the outcomes of PSA failure were performed. RESULTS In the univariate analysis, larger values of greatest tumor dimension and area were strongly associated with increased incidence of PSA failure (P = 0.0001 and 0.0011, respectively). The forward stepwise multivariate analysis indicated that greatest tumor dimension had marginal statistical significance as a risk factor for PSA failure (P = 0.0577; risk ratio, 1.117). However, in this series, men with a greatest tumor dimension of less than 1 cm did not experience failure, whereas all patients with a greatest tumor dimension of more than 2 cm did. CONCLUSIONS Measuring greatest tumor dimension is a simple, inexpensive predictor of PSA failure in men who have undergone radical prostatectomy. Cancer 1998;83:748-752. © 1998 American Cancer Society.
UAV-based multi-sensor data fusion processing

This article presents a mathematical model for an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)-based, multi-sensor data integration. As background, this article first discusses the design and the implementation of a low-cost civilian UAV system, including its field flight validation, system calibration and mapping accuracy evaluation. Then, the photogrammetry-based mathematical model is developed. This multi-sensor, mathematical model reveals that the boresight matrix in a low-cost UAV system does not remain constant. This contradicts the practice in traditional airborne mapping systems where the boresight matrix is assumed to be a constant over an entire mission. Thus, to achieve highly accurate mapping, exterior orientation parameters (EOPs) for each video frame in a low-cost UAV mapping system have to be estimated. This model can achieve a planimetric mapping accuracy using 1-2 pixels when compared with the United States Geological Survey digital orthophoto quadrangles (USGS DOQ) orthophoto.
Necessity is the mother of invention: a simple grid computing system using commodity tools

Access to sufficient resources is a barrier to scientific progress for many researchers facing large computational problems. Gaining access to large-scale resources (i.e., university-wide or federally supported computer centers) can be difficult, given their limited availability, particular architectures, and request/review/approval cycles. Simultaneously, researchers often find themselves with access to workstations and older clusters overlooked by their owners in favor of newer hardware. Software to tie these resources into a coherent Grid, however, has been problematic. Here, we describe our experiences building a Grid computing system to conduct a large-scale simulation study using "borrowed" computing resources distributed over a wide area. Using standard software components, we have produced a Grid computing system capable of coupling several hundred processors spanning multiple continents and administrative domains. We believe that this system fills an important niche between a closely coupled local system and a heavyweight, highly customized wide area system.
Examining the Influence of price and accessibility on willingness to shop at farmers' markets among low-income eastern North Carolina women.

Abstract Objective To examine the influence of farmers' market pricing and accessibility on willingness to shop at farmers' markets, among low-income women. Design Qualitative interviews using scenarios with quantitative assessment of willingness to shop at farmers' markets given certain pricing and accessibility scenarios. Setting Eastern North Carolina. Participants A total of 37 low-income women of childbearing age (18–44 years) receiving family planning services at the health department. Phenomenon of Interest Willingness to shop at a farmers' market. Analysis Fisher's exact test was used to examine associations between willingness to shop at farmers' markets by urban/rural residence, race, and employment status. Direct quotations relevant to participants' use of farmers' markets were extracted based on a positive deviance framework. Results Participants were increasingly willing to shop at the farmers' market when price savings increased and when the market was incrementally closer to their residence. Willingness was highest when there was at least a 20% price savings. Participants seemed to be influenced more by a visual representation of a greater quantity of produce received with the price savings rather than a quantitative representation of the money saved by the reduced price. Conclusions and Implications Future farmers' market interventions should take into account these consumer level preferences.
Failure of notched columns with fixed ends

Abstract A theoretical basis is given for some of the recent experimental results [4] for the maximum load-carrying capacity of sharply notched aluminum 7075-T6511 columns with fixed-ends. A failure criterion based on the stress-intensity factor concept is developed for these concentrically loaded, notched columns. The criterion is used to predict failure loads which are found to be in good agreement with experimental results for the case of fixed-end, notched aluminum columns investigated in this study. This work is another example of how the fracture mechanics concept may be applied to determining the response of notched columns under axial compression loading.
A balance panel, amplifier, and trigger device for nictitating membrane transducers

Description and circuit are provided for a balance panel, amplifier, and trigger device for nictitating membrane devices.
Murine Marrow Stromal Response to Myelotoxic Agents in vitro

Previous studies have shown that the haemopoietically active murine long-term bone marrow culture (LTBMC) is a useful model for studying drug-induced suppression and recovery of myelopoiesis. We studied the effects on stromal morphology and stromal progenitors, assessed as colony forming unit-fibroblasts (CFU-F), of the addition of either the antimetabolite methotrexate (MTX) or the betalactam ceftazidime (CEF) to LTBMC. The examination of 500 micrograms/ml CEF-treated cultures revealed a stroma that appeared empty, with modest reduction in total stromal counts, and significant decreases in fat-containing and endothelial cells. In contrast, treatment with 1 microM MTX for 1 week initially caused minimal morphologic stromal changes, thereafter total stromal cell count as well as fibroblastoid, endothelial, fat containing and macrophage cells significantly increased. Haemopoiesis and the stroma recovered. Both CEF and MTX reversibly suppressed stromal progenitor cells in LTBMC. When added directly to CFU-F cultures, the concentrations resulting in a 50% colony growth inhibition were 214 micrograms/ml for CEF and 375 nM for MTX. These results suggest that CEF, but not MTX, has direct toxic effects on the stroma of established LTBMC. Stromal cell increase following MTX treatment probably indicates a stromal response that may contribute to haemopoietic cell recovery.
Financial breakeven point for competition control in longleaf pine (Pinus palustris Mill.) reestablishment

Reestablishment of longleaf pine (Pinus palustris Mill.) in the American South is a priority of conservation groups. Its original Pre-European natural range of 38 million ha has been reduced by 95% and it is one of the most endangered ecosystems in the US. The species undergoes a grass stage where no stem development takes place that can last 7 years or longer. Competition control can limit this grass stage and increase economic returns. The amount of competition control cost that equals the cost of the grass stage delay would be the most one would want to expend in reducing the grass stage delay. This breakeven amount can be determined using land expectation value methodology and a simple calculation technique is presented. A case study shows that each additional year of a grass stage delay decreases the bare land value of a longleaf pine stand by about 6% annually. A longleaf pine stand with no grass stage delay worth $2,500 per ha would be worth $1,768 per ha with a 5-year grass stage delay. One could spend up to $478 per ha to eliminate this 5-year grass stage delay and still break-even.
About Eating: An Online Program With Evidence of Increased Food Resource Management Skills for Low-Income Women

Abstract Objective Produce and evaluate About Eating (AE), an online program for low-income women aligned with the Satter eating competence model, congruent with best practices for nutrition education of low-income audiences. Methods Responses from iterative cognitive interviews and online surveys with diverse samples of low-income women informed lesson revisions. The researchers conducted a randomized controlled trial of AE with low-income women to determine its impact on dietary behavior and food security. Results In all, 284 women reviewed at least 1 AE lesson and endorsed it. After AE, women (n = 288) increased in use of food resource management skills (eg, using a budget [P = .008] and planning meals to include all food groups [P = .002]). About Eating participants who were food secure had more confidence in managing money for food (P = .002) and keeping track of food-related purchases (P = .02) than food-insecure persons. Conclusions and Implications Mixed-methods research with life stage and geodiverse samples confirmed the usefulness of AE. Food security assessment may enhance interpretation of intervention effectiveness.
Ischemic Forms of Acute Venous Thrombosis

• Venous thrombosis in an extremity, when extensive, can cause reversible tissue ischemia or frank gangrene even without arterial or capillary occlusion. Patients gradually or abruptly develop severe pain, extensive edema, and cyanosis of the extremity, nearly always in the legs. Gangrene can occur unless the venous obstruction is relieved. Such ischemic venous thrombosis can complicate surgery, trauma, childbirth, or prolonged immobility, but malignant neoplasms, either obvious or occult, are a major predisposing factor. The optimal therapy is anticoagulation and thrombectomy. Patients with venous gangrene may require amputation if extensive, deep-tissue destruction occurs. The mortality rate for ischemic venous thrombosis is about 40%, the cause of death usually being the underlying disease or pulmonary emboli. ( Arch Dermatol 1987;123:933-936)
Race differences in teenage sexuality, pregnancy, and adolescent childbearing.

This article examines the origin and consequences of racial differences in teen sexuality pregnancy and childbearing. Black/white differences in rates of early and out-of-wedlock childbearing have been declining in the past several decades though the incidence of nonmarital fertility among younger teens is still about 5 times as high for blacks as for whites. Early sexual behavior irregular use of contraception and a much lower probability of marrying prior to having a birth all contribute to the racial differential. Evidence suggests that both normative and socioeconomic differences may account for these demographic patterns. Black teens show markedly higher tolerance for childbearing before marriage. They also express much greater reservations about the viability of marriage especially at an early age than do whites. These views may affect their willingness to risk early pregnancy and initiate intercourse at an early age. Several types of interventions that might reduce black/white differences in teen childbearing were reviewed. The most promising of these involved simultaneously strengthening the community sanctions that discourage early parenthood while expanding social opportunities. Presently poor especially poor minority youth may feel that they have little to lose by entering parenthood prematurely. Unless these youth are persuaded that they have a larger stake in the future there is unlikely to be dramatic decline in the incidence of early childbearing among blacks. This does not necessarily mean that racial differences are destined to persist. Increasingly white youth are subject to many of the same conditions that have produced high rates of early and out-of-wedlock childbearing among blacks. Thus racial differences may decline not because the situation of blacks is improving but because white youth are less willing to defer sexual activity or less able to marry when pregnancy occurs. This at least may change the perception of early childbearing as a black problem. Teenage pregnancy represents the inability of society to manage the transition to adulthood effectively. (authors modified)
Cast sinter technique for producing iron base surface composites

Abstract Based on the liquid-sinter theory of powder metallurgy, using the heat of liquid iron during casting, the FeAl 2 O 3 , FeZrO 2 and FeTiC surface composites, with a thickness of 2–3 mm, were sintered on the surface of cast iron by the addition of ZrO 2 , Al 2 O 3 or TiC ceramic powder into press blocks, respectively. The structures and compositions of the FeAl 2 O 3 , FeZrO 2 and FeTiC surface composites were studied with the help of an SEM and an electron probe. The ceramic particles were uniformly dispersed in the iron-alloy matrix. In the FeTiC surface composite layer, the concentration of Ti was relatively stable and consistently retained at a high level, and the concentration of Cr, Mo and Ni took on a gradient distribution and decreased gradually into that of a master-alloy. Increasing the liquid content in the press block and adding an infiltrator, the densification of the surface composite layer and the interface-bond between the surface composite layer and master-alloy can be improved. The cast sinter technique provides the opportunity of producing near-net-shape final components with a metal–ceramic surface composite layer during casting.
Human von Willebrand factor (vWF): isolation of complementary DNA (cDNA) clones and chromosomal localization

Human factor VIII--von Willebrand factor (vWF) is a large, multimeric glycoprotein that plays a central role in the blood coagulation system, serving both as a carrier for factor VIIIC (antihemophilic factor) and as a major mediator of platelet-vessel wall interaction. Diminished or abnormal vWF activity results in von Willebrand's disease (vWD), a common and complex hereditary bleeding disorder. Overlapping vWF cDNA clones that span 8.2 kilobases of the vWF messenger RNA have been obtained. vWF accounts for approximately 0.3 percent of endothelial cell messenger RNA and was undetectable in several other tissues examined. A large single copy gene for vWF is located on the short arm of chromosome 12 (12p12----12pter). No gross gene rearrangement or deletion was detected in the DNA of two patients with severe vWD.
The effects of intermittent doses of adrenocortical steroids on the statural growth of nephrotic children.

Summary The linear growth patterns of two groups of children with nephrosis were studied. One group received prolonged intermittent corticosteroid therapy to maintain remission and the other group (control) did not. Although the growth increments of each group were accelerated just prior to and following remission, those of the patients receiving intermittent corticosteroid therapy were significantly lower than the growth increments of the control group. These differences in growth rates were no longer significantly different when intermittent corticosteroid therapy was discontinued in the first group. Several aspects of growth changes occurring during the nephrotic syndrome are discussed.
Fluorimetric Nerve Gas Sensing Based on Pyrene Imines Incorporated into Films and Sub‐Micrometer Fibers

The chemical sensing of nerve gas agents has become an increasingly important goal due to the 1995 terrorist attack in a Tokyo subway as well as national security concerns in regard to world affairs. Chemical detection needs to be sensitive and selective while being facile, portable, and timely. In this paper, a sensing approach using a pyrene imine molecule is presented that is fluorimetric in response. The detection of a chloro-Sarin surrogate is measured at 5 ppmv in less than 1 second and is highly selective towards halogenated organophosphates. The pyrene imine molecule is incorporated into polystyrene films as well as micrometer and sub-micrometer fibers. Using both a direct drawing approach and electrospinning, micrometer and nanofibers can be easily manufactured. Applications for functional sensing micrometer and nanofibers are envisioned for optical devices and photonics in addition to solution and airflow sensing devices.
Attenuation Length for Photoelectrons Excited in Aluminum by 21.2-eV Photons

The attenuation length $l$ for photoelectrons excited in aluminum by 584-\AA{} photons has been determined and found to lie in the range $4l~ll~12.8$ \AA{}. The determination was made by analyzing the relative photoemissive yield as a function of angle. The method also provides an accurate means of obtaining the film thickness and index of refraction of aluminum from photoemission measurements alone.
Concordance between Two Measures of Dream Bizarreness

To assess the level of concordance between two published measures of dream bizarreness, 100 randomly selected dreams from 93 college students were scored for primary process using the Auld, Goldenberg, and Weiss scale and for dream distortion using Zepelin's scale. This analysis yielded a strong relationship between these measures, indicating adequate concurrent validity for the content analysis of the construct of dream bizarreness.
The effect of tolerance on opiate dependence as measured by the adenylate cyclase rebound response to naloxone in the NG108-15 model system

The naloxone-induced adenylate cyclase rebound response produced by opiates in the NG108-15 cells is quite apparent after 48 h treatment with M but it is undetectable after incubation with the high intrinsic activity agonist etorphine. Replacement of agonists by antagonists in receptors that have been rendered inactive by tolerance does not elicit the AC rebound response, which is considered a biochemical correlate of dependence. This indicates that marked tolerance and receptor down-regulation induced by prolonged treatment with high efficacy agonists may reduce the level of dependence.