cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
KEYNESIAN INVOLUNTARY UNEMPLOYMENT AND STICKY NOMINAL WAGES

This paper presents a model in which sticky nominal wages and Keynesian involuntary unemployment result as a consequence of the intertemporal optimisation decisions of profit maximising monopsonistic firms and fully rational and informed workers in an uncertain environment. Uncertainty associated with the business cycle and its impact on product price generates disequilibrium wages and identifies the labour demand function in contractions and the supply of labour in expansions. The theoretical prediction of a negative relationship between real wages and employment during contractions and a positive relationship during expansions is strongly supported by the empirical evidence presented. Central to Keynesian macroeconomics is the concept of involuntary unemployment, the existence of which once was a commonly agreed upon stylised fact. However, as noted by Hoover (i988) and McCafferty (i990) among others, existing models either fail to provide a satisfactory reason why wages do not adjust to clear the market or seek some sort of equilibrium explanation in which unemployment is not strictly involuntary in the sense of Keynes. Moreover, the failure of recent empirical studies to support the Keynesian prediction of a countercyclical wage has led some to doubt the relevance of Keynesian economics and even the meaningfulness of the notion of involuntary unemployment (Lucas, 1978; Farmer, 1993) . Keynes (I 939) cited findings of a countercyclical real wage during the Great Depression, argued that the relationship between real wages and employment depends upon whether changes in employment are due to changes in effective demand or due to other factors, and recommended that observations on real wages ought to be classified by periods of contraction and expansion. An examination of US data for the period 1920-89, presented in Section II of this paper, confirms the importance of Keynes's argument and motivated the development of the new Keynesian model of employment and wages presented in Section III. The model is characterised by a market structure in which representative monopsonistic firms post nominal wage rates (which they may find optimal to partially but not totally index) in advance of knowing product price and of hiring labourers (who may have complete knowledge relevant to their choices). Price forecasts are assumed to be rational while prices vary with the state of the economy. The theoretical framework (i) incorporates all of the characteristics of Keynesian involuntary unemployment while not attributing the cause of unemployment to the supply behaviours of labourers, (2) provides an explanation of why wages do not adjust to clear the market that is based explicitly on the optimising behaviour of firms (and implicitly on that of
A methodology for integrated building— HVAC system thermal analysis

Abstract This paper presents an integrated methodology for thermal analysis of buildings and their HVAC systems. The methodology is based on the use of Laplace transfer functions for the buildings, its heating-cooling system and control components. These transfer functions can be used for building thermal control studies, frequency domain analysis and energy analysis. Laplace transfer functions for the building are obtained by means of thermal network models that include both distributed parameter elements such as thermal mass, lumped elements such as the room light-weight contents, and which represent radiant exchanges accurately. For detailed models for which an analytical solution is not feasible, the s-domain transfer functions are obtained through a modified least squares polynomial fit to the discrete frequency responses obtained by inversion of the system admittance matrix. Fourth order polynomials provide accuracies of approximately 1%. The methodology is applied to obtain both air temperature and operative temperature transfer functions. Laplace transfer functions are also used for HVAC system and control components. Transient thermal control studies are performed by means of an efficient numerical Laplace transform inversion technique. Building heating/cooling load calculations are performed by means of discrete Fourier series techniques.
Access to inequality: reconsidering class, knowledge, and capital in higher education

Access to higher education is a prominent topic among policymakers, scholars, and students and their families. As President Obama's American Graduation Initiative demonstrates, we are intent on get...
Multiple resonances in non-Franck-Condon transitions due to nonlocal effects in laser-induced associative ionization.

The laser-induced associative ionization process ${A}^{\mathrm{*}}$+B+\ensuremath{\Elzxh}\ensuremath{\omega}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}${\mathrm{AB}}^{+}$+${e}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}}$ is investigated using a nonlocal scattering potential. It is found that for each vibrational level of the ion complex ${\mathrm{AB}}^{+}$ multiple resonances for association can occur as the laser frequency is varied, provided the laser intensity is beyond a certain critical value, estimated to be on the order of ${10}^{7}$ W/${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$ for alkali diatomic systems. The locations of the resonances also depend crucially on the laser intensity. These results are contrary to the Franck-Condon assumption of localized electronic transitions, which predicts a single resonance for each vibrational level.
3D AVO crossplotting—An effective visualization technique

Crossplots, visual representations of the relationship between two variables, are used to (a) visually identify outliers that may bias a correlation, (b) gain a visual sense for the strength of the correlation between variables, (c) detect if the relationship between variables is linear or nonlinear, (d) identify trends which may indicate multiple populations within the same data set, and (e) detect significant departures from a background trend—in other words to detect anomalies. Crossplotting is widely used in AVO analysis, because it facilitates the simultaneous and meaningful evaluation of two attributes. Generally, common lithology units and fluid types cluster together in AVO crossplot space, allowing identification of background lithology trends and anomalous off-trend aggregations that could be associated with hydrocarbons. Initially, AVO crossplotting typically used the intercept and gradient. However, in 1997, Goodway et al. used crossplots of elastic parameters (Lambda-Rho and Mu-Rho) to improve petrophysical discrimination of rock properties. Other attributes have also been used as AVO anomaly indicators (Castagna and Smith, 1994). Crossplotting appropriate pairs of attributes so that common lithologies and fluid types generally cluster together allows for straightforward interpretation. The off-trend aggregations can then be more elaborately evaluated as potential hydrocarbon indicators. This is the essence of successful AVO crossplot analysis and interpretation, all of which is based on the premise that data that are anomalous statistically are interesting geologically. This article describes attempts to extend crossplotting to three dimensions and assess any advantages that result. Ross and Sparlin (2000) made this extension by using the intercept, gradient, and inlines for a 3D seismic volume as the three dimensions on a 3D crossplot. Our procedure begins by first visualizing different combinations of the measured well-log parameters (P-velocity, S-velocity, density, porosity, and gamma ray) in two and three dimensions. Next, observed patterns are visualized and compared in the …
Financial Considerations of Using Pumped Hydroelectric Storage to Increase the Penetration of Wind and Solar Generation

Renewable power production is both variable and difficult to forecast accurately. These traits can make its integration into an electric grid problematic. But because its “fuel” is free, it makes economic sense to utilize renewable energy whenever it is available. When a power grid is unable to accommodate low marginal cost renewable energy due to a generator fleet that lacks sufficient flexibility, the energy is usually wasted and dispatchable fossil fuel generators are utilized instead. However, if a pumped hydroelectric storage (PHS, see the glossary for definitions of select terms) facility is used to time shift the renewable power production, the energy is transformed into a dispatchable resource. Because of this dispatchability, the power can be sold as “firm” generation which typically gets a higher price on the wholesale electricity market. This paper will address the financial aspects of using PHS to firm and time shift the inherently variable wind and solar power generation in the Mid-Atlantic States.The benefits that a PHS facility can offer to renewable power generators are many, but the biggest drawback to doing so is the high capital cost of PHS. In order to study the revenue streams of both PHS facilities and renewable power generators a computer model with one minute granularity was constructed. Electricity demand, power prices and wind power production were obtained from PJM’s website for the year 2010. The NREL program PVWatts v.1 was used to generate the simulated solar power production which was combined with the PJM data and used as input to the model. Currently, various PHS configurations are being tested in order to determine their effects on the profits of the PHS facility and the profits of renewable generators. Preliminary results show that the relationship between PHS owners and renewable power generators could be beneficial for both parties. The extents of the financial benefits are largely determined by the dynamics of the applicable wholesale electricity market, the accuracy of the power production forecast for renewable generators, the power capacity, the energy capacity and the round trip efficiency of the PHS facility.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Ultrasound in Urogynecology: An Update on Clinical Application

Technical advances and the increasing availability of ultrasound has enabled physicians to explore new areas in diagnostic imaging of the pelvic floor structure. Perineal/translabial, transvaginal/introital, and transrectal are among the commonly used routes. The previously developed classical 2D ultrasound is considered the standard technique and currently in use for the evaluation of the position and mobility of the bladder neck, bladder wall thickness, and investigation of new surgical procedures. Color Doppler ultrasound not only spots the vascular flow of the pelvic organs, but it can also demonstrate urine leakage. 3D ultrasound distinguishes in detail the pelvic organs, muscle, and fascial components possibly matching up to magnetic resonance image. 3D ultrasound has been used to identify the urethra, levator ani complex, prolapse, and surgical implants used in continence procedure or pelvic reconstruction surgery. Now that ultrasound has gained popularity in serving as a powerful tool to provide valuable information for physicians to provide their patients with better care, there is a need to give an update on its clinical application in urogynecology.
Is lung diffusing capacity lower in expiratory flow limited women compared to non-flow limited women during exercise?

Women tend to have smaller lungs than men of the same size as well as narrower airways compared to men when matched for the same lung size. Additionally, women with smaller airways relative to lung size are more likely to experience expiratory flow limitation (EFL) as well as exercise-induced arterial hypoxemia (EIAH). One of the possible causes of EIAH includes excessive widening in the alveolar-to-arterial oxygen pressure difference (A-aDO2) due to diffusion limitation. This study investigated if lung diffusing capacity (D LCO) is lower in women with EFL compared to non-flow limited (NEFL) women during exercise. D LCO was measured using the rebreathing technique at rest and at 40, 60, and 80 % of $$\dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2\text{max}}$$ on a treadmill in healthy women with EFL (n = 7; 21.6 ± 2.3) and without EFL (NEFL, n = 9; 21.2 ± 2.3). Arterial oxygen saturation was measured using pulse oximetry (SpO2). There was no difference (p > 0.05) in D LCO between groups at rest or during exercise; however, SpO2 was significantly lower in the EFL females compared to NEFL females during exercise. Due to the lack of differences in D LCO between women with EFL and without EFL, our results suggest that this is not a possible cause for the significant differences in SpO2 between the two groups.
Caenorhabditis elegans Contains Two Distinct Acid Sphingomyelinases

Abstract Mounting evidence supports a role for acid sphingomyelinase (ASM) in cellular stress signaling. Only murine and human sphingomyelinases have been defined at the molecular level. These enzymes are the products of a conserved gene and at the amino acid level share 82% identity. In this study, we show that the nematodeCaenorhabditis elegans possesses two ASMs, termed ASM-1 and ASM-2 encoded by two distinct genes, but lacks detectable neutral sphingomyelinase activity. The C. elegans ASMs are about 30% identical with each other and with the human and murine enzymes. The conserved regions include a saposin-like domain, proline-rich domain, and a putative signal peptide. In addition, 16 cysteines distributed throughout the molecules, and selected glycosylation sites, are conserved. The expression of these genes in C. elegansis regulated during development. Asm-1 is preferentially expressed in the embryo, whereas asm-2 is predominantly expressed in postembryonic stages. When transfected as Flag-tagged proteins into COS-7 cells, ASM-1 is found almost entirely in a secreted form whereas only 20% of ASM-2 is secreted. Only the secreted forms display enzymatic activity. Furthermore, ASM-2 requires addition of Zn2+ to be fully active, whereas ASM-1 is active in the absence of cation. C. elegans is the first organism to display two ASMs. This finding suggests the existence of an ASM gene family.
Series approximation of protein structure and constructing conformation space

Series approximations of the three-dimensional structure of protein conformations can provide insightful ways to detect and manipulate global features and those local to contiguous segments of the chain. Discrete cosine transforms have proven to be very useful in the past, and now wavelet transforms appear to have additional advantages. Here the emphasis is on a new generalization of the discrete Haar transform for chains of arbitrary length, as opposed to the customary powers of 2. This can be used to define a true, concrete conformation space, where different conformations correspond to points in the space, and a measure of distance between points corresponds to the customary root-mean-square deviation after optimal pairwise superposition (rmsd). Examples are given of how to do this to high accuracy. The key is to devise a rule for placing individual conformers in a standard position relative to the coordinate system, rather than superimposing them on a pairwise basis.
A structural contingency approach to bureaucracy and democracy in U.S. national unions.

Drawing on industrial relations and organizational science concepts, in this article we apply elements of contingency theory to national unions' representative and administrative structures. We arg...
Editor's Welcome: Cuts and a Call to Open Access

The Editor discusses the recent budget cuts to higher education in Louisiana and how open access could be a solution to dwindling resources.
Twitter: a Platform for Political Discourse or Social Networking

Previous research on new media has largely focused on the potential media effects of alternative news sources on their viewers. The effects of these studies have been limited, however, to the narrow audiences targeted by the increasingly polarizing alternative news sources. The advent and popularization of social networks has provided a reason to suspect that, for the first time, alternative news sources are making their way to the mainstream general public. In this study, I examine a new political and media environment that encourages the interaction between the politically inattentive public and polarized and alternative news sources – a link that contains numerous implications of previously inapplicable studies. I elaborate on previous literature pertaining to social networking’s capacity to operate as both a social networking vehicle and as a platform for further political debate by incorporating previous research that suggests an inherent polarization in alternative news sources with other studies that have highlighted the majority of society’s political inattentiveness. The results of my study suggest that Twitter users – the majority of them being politically inattentive – are more likely to be exposed to polarizing alternative news sources as opposed to mainstream news coverage when seeking out issue-based news items. By discovering a previously undetected link between polarized alternative news sources and the politically inattentive, this paper opens the door for future studies to study the effects of polarized reportage on the politically inattentive and the relationship between social networking and the traditional mainstream media.
Inhibition of Syk protein tyrosine kinase induces apoptosis and blocks proliferation in T-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma cell lines.

Inhibition of Syk protein tyrosine kinase induces apoptosis and blocks proliferation in T-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma cell lines
An examination of sex differences in social support among older men and women

This paper is designed to empirically investigate sex differences in social support. Several types of sex differences are examined, including quantity and quality of support, the relationship between quantitative and qualitative measures of support, the number and source of support provided and received, and the relative predictive power of quality and quantity of support on well-being. The data are taken from the Supports of the Elderly, a national survey of older people (Kahn and Antonucci, 1984). Included in the present study are 214 men and 166 women ranging in age from 50 to 95 who are married and have at least one child. The analyses reveal that women have larger networks and receive supports from multiple sources, while men tend to rely on their spouses exclusively. Men report greater satisfaction with marriage than women. Quantitative supports are more related to qualitative supports for women than for men. For both sexes, the quality of support rather than the quantity of support has significantly greater effects on well-being; both the quantity and quality of social support have a greater impact on the well-being of women compared to men.
Predicting Druggable Sites in Protein-Protein Interfaces using FindBindSite

Significance: Aberrant protein-protein interactions are a hallmark of disease and many cancers. Disrupting these interactions is a current therapeutic strategy. However, developing inhibitors for protein-protein interfaces (PPI) remains challenging due to large surface area over which these interactions occur. Computational methods can greatly aid in identifying druggable sites on the PPI enabling rational inhibitor design for PPI.Approach: We have developed a computational method termed FindBindSite (FBS), to identify druggable sites in the PPI starting from free monomer structures. Our method virtually screens a small database of compounds or dipeptides over the entire protein surface and identifies regions with high docked ligand atom density. Densely populated regions are then clustered and scored based on cluster size. The clustering allows us to identify binding surfaces in the interface regions.Results: FBS was validated 41 protein-protein structures crystallized in complex form. Structures were selected giving preference to free, protein-inhibitor, and then protein-protein complex when structures were not available. We predicted binding sites in interface regions of 71% with a high confidence and 90% with a low confidence using our test set. We tested the performance of FBS on homology models of free monomers achieving a hit rate of 68% when using templates with sequence identity between 20-97%. Applying a 60% sequence identity cutoff we achieved a hit rate of 86%. Using a library of dipeptides we were able to achieve 85% hit rate. We demonstrate that FBS is a useful computational method to predict binding sites in protein-protein interfaces because it uses the probe molecule diversity to span beyond well formed pockets and identify regions where one could likely disrupt any PPIs are likely to occur.
Community-level impacts of temperature on urban street robbery

article i nfo Available online 23 September 2011 Purpose: Conduct the first empirical intra-urban examination of community-level connections between street robbery and temperature. Examine whether community socioeconomic status (SES) and crime-relevant land uses strengthen or weaken the temperature impact. A theoretical framework relying on routine activity theory, crime pattern theory, and resident-based control dynamics organized predictions. Data and methods: For Philadelphia census tracts (n=381), monthly street robbery counts and temperature data for 36 consecutive months were combined with census and land use data, and analyzed with multilevel models. Results: Community robbery counts were higher when temperatures were higher, and in lower SES communities. In support of previous work with property crime, but in contrast to previous work with assault, the effects of temperature were stronger in higher SES communities. In support of the integrated model, commercial land use prevalence and subway stations were associated with heightened temperature impacts on robbery. Conclusions: Community-level fixed and random effects of temperature on urban robbery counts persist when controlling for land use and community structure; further, the random effects depend in part on both. There are implications for understanding indigenous guardianship or informal resident-based place management dynamics, and for planning seasonal police deployments.
Asymptotic stability for equations with unbounded delay

On considere le systeme integrodifferentiel a memoire infinie de la forme x'=A(t)x+∫ −∞ t K(t,s)x(s)ds+f(t,x) ou A est une matrice n×n continue pour −∞<t<∞, K est une matrice n×n continue pour −∞<s≤t<∞, f∈C[R×sρ,R n ] Sρ=[x∈R n :∥x∥<ρ] et f(t,0)≡0. On etudie des conditions suffisantes pour la stabilite asymptotique de la solution zero pour A non necessairement stable
Diet, Individual Responsiveness and Cancer Prevention

Dietary recommendations for the prevention of cancer have been based predominantly on large epidemiological studies of diet and lifestyle, conducted 20, and in some cases, almost 30 years ago. Government programs have been successful in educating the public about the benefits of eating fruits and vegetables, yet despite these efforts, Americans have become heavier, diabetes is more prevalent and general health indicators have not greatly improved. Individual response to dietary recommendations may be complicated by a variety of factors. Polymorphisms in genes related to drug activation and detoxification, folate metabolism, DNA repair, vitamin receptors and other cellular receptors could account for a lack of benefit at the level of the individual for consuming cancer preventive foods. Beyond consideration of genetic polymorphisms, the last half century has brought stark changes in lifestyle that depart from normal diurnal cycle and periodic fluctuations in food availability. Thus, modern times may be characterized as being constantly in a feast environment. The cellular consequences may be an increase in risk for several diseases including cancer. J. Nutr. 133: 2400S-2403S, 2003.
Collective phenomena in a quasi-two-dimensional system of fermionic polar molecules: Band renormalization and excitons

We theoretically analyze a quasi-two-dimensional system of fermionic polar molecules trapped in a harmonic transverse confining potential. The renormalized energy bands are calculated by solving the Hartree-Fock equation numerically for various trap and dipolar interaction strengths. The intersubband excitations of the system are studied in the conserving time-dependent Hartree-Fock (TDHF) approximation from the perspective of lattice modulation spectroscopy experiments. We find that the excitation spectrum consists of both intersubband particle-hole excitation continua and antibound excitons whose antibinding behavior is associated to the anisotropic nature of dipolar interactions. The excitonic modes are shown to capture the majority of the spectral weight. We evaluate the intersubband transition rates in order to investigate the nature of the excitonic modes and find that they are antibound states formed from particle-hole excitations arising from several subbands. We discuss the sum rules in the context of lattice modulation spectroscopy experiments and utilize them to check the consistency of the obtained results. Our results indicate that the excitonic effects persist for interaction strengths and temperatures accessible in the current experiments with polar molecules.
Hyperfiltration of Sodium Chloride through Kaolinite Membranes under Relatively Low-Heads -- Implications for Groundwater Assessment

Abstract Three relatively low-head hyperfiltration experiments were conducted to investigate clay membrane behavior at lower hydraulic heads. Dilute Cl − solutions (187 and 336 mg/L) were forced through thin layers of kaolinite (0.67–1.62 mm) under heads ranging between 1.45 and 1.89 m. At the end of each experiment, there was a Cl − concentration increase (15–29%) within the cell. The concentration increase is attributable to solute-sieving by the kaolinite. Calculated final concentration increases at the membrane face ranged between 1.51 and 1.65 times the initial concentration and the calculated values of the reflection coefficient ranged between 0.35 and 0.40. These experiments show that clays are capable of significant hyperfiltration effects at lower pressure heads more typical of natural aquifers. Consequently, hyperfiltration effects may need to be considered in a broad spectrum of shallow subsurface processes in which these effects have been regarded as inconsequential; particularly in perched aquifers.
Health, Human Capital, and Development.

How much does disease depress development in human capital and income around the world? I discuss a range of micro evidence, which finds that health is both human capital itself and an input to producing other forms of human capital. I use a standard model to integrate these results and suggest a reinterpretation of much of the micro literature. I then discuss the aggregate implications of micro estimates but note the complications in extrapolating to general equilibrium, especially because of health's effect on population size. I also review the macro evidence on this topic, which consists of either cross-country comparisons or measuring responses to health shocks. Micro estimates are one to two orders of magnitude smaller than the cross-country relationship but nevertheless imply high benefit-to-cost ratios from improving certain forms of health.
Differentiation of tumour-stage mycosis fungoides, psoriasis vulgaris and normal controls in a pilot study using serum proteomic analysis.

Summary Background Serum proteomic analysis is an analytical technique utilizing highthroughput mass spectrometry (MS) in order to assay thousands of serum proteins simultaneously. The resultant ‘proteomic signature’ has been used to differentiate benign and malignant diseases, enable disease prognosis, and monitor response to therapy. Objectives This pilot study was designed to determine if serum protein patterns could be used to distinguish patients with tumour-stage mycosis fungoides (MF) from patients with a benign inflammatory skin condition (psoriasis) and ⁄or subjects with healthy skin. Methods Serum was analysed from 45 patients with tumour-stage MF, 56 patients with psoriasis, and 47 controls using two MS platforms of differing resolution. An artificial intelligence-based classification model was constructed to predict the presence of the disease state based on the serum proteomic signature. Results Based on data from an independent testing set (14–16 subjects in each group), MF was distinguished from psoriasis with 78AE6% (or 78AE6%) sensitivity and 86AE7% (or 93AE8%) specificity, while sera from patients with psoriasis were distinguished from those of nonaffected controls with 86AE7% (or 93AE8%) sensitivity and 75AE0% (or 76AE9%) specificity (depending on the MS platform used). MF was distinguished from unaffected controls with 61AE5% (or 71AE4%) sensitivity and 91AE7% (or 92AE9%) specificity. In addition, a secondary survival analysis using 11 MS peaks identified significant survival differences between two MF groups (all P-values <0AE05). Conclusions Serum proteomics should be further investigated for its potential to identify patients with neoplastic skin disease and its ability to determine disease prognosis.
The predictors of central and obstructive sleep apnoea in haemodialysis patients

Background. Sleep apnoea (SA) is often observed in haemodialysis patients, but there have been few studies on types of SA and their predictors. We therefore investigated the prevalence and types of SA and the associations between types of SA and clinical factors in haemodialysis patients. Methods. We initially examined nocturnal oxygen desaturation index (ODI) (desaturation of >4%/ events per hour) in 119 haemodialysis patients (68 males, mean age of 61.4 years). Patients with ODI of more than five were diagnosed as having SA. Then, 30 patients underwent polysomnography and we measured Apnoea–hypopnoea index (AHI), which was calculated as the number of apnoeas plus hypopnoeas per hour of sleep. Clinical characteristics were examined in all patients. Results. Forty-one (34.5%) of the 119 patients had SA. Twenty-seven (22.7%) of the 119 patients had SA with subjective symptoms such as daytime somnolence and snoring. There was a significant difference between body mass index (BMI) in patients with SA and that in patients without SA (22.5 vs 19.8 kg/m 2 , P < 0.001). There were significantly higher prevalences of hypertension (85.4 vs 66.7%, P < 0.05) and diabetes mellitus (36.6 vs 10.3%, P < 0.01) in patients with SA than those in patients without SA. Multivariable analysis showed that BMI was independently associated with the occurrence of SA (OR 1.20, 95% CI 1.05–1.38). Mean AHI of 30 patients who underwent polysomnography was 53.2 � 28.9 [central apnoea, 4.1 � 5.6 (8%); obstructive apnoea, 21.7 � 21.5 (42%); mixed apnoea, 4.9 � 8.0 (9%); hypopnoea, 21.4 � 15.5 (41%)]. The number of obstructive apnoea events per hour was significantly correlated with BUN (r ¼ 0.490, P < 0.01), Cr (r ¼ 0.418, P < 0.05) and BMI (r ¼ 0.489, P < 0.01) and was inversely correlated with serum bicarbonate (r ¼� 0.646, P < 0.01) and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) (r ¼� 0.481, P < 0.01). The number of central apnoea events per hour was correlated inversely with PaO2 (r ¼� 0.393, P < 0.05) and PaCO2 (r ¼� 0.388, P < 0.05) and tended to be correlated with cardiothoracic ratio (CTR) (r ¼ 0.347, P ¼ 0.060). Conclusions. There is a high prevalence of SA in haemodialysis patients. The dominant type of SA in haemodialysis patients is obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). Uraemia (BUN, Cr), metabolic acidosis (serum bicarbonate) and BMI are good predictors of OSA. PaO2, PaCO2 and CTR are good predictors of central sleep apnoea (CSA). Good management of these factors might improve SA in haemodialysis patients.
Calculations of the Macroscopic Linear and Nonlinear Optical Properties of Nematic Liquid Crystals

Many studies have focused on the computation of the structural and electronic properties of liquid crystal molecules in a single static conformation. However, a complete and quantitatively accurate description of the macroscopic optical properties of liquid crystals must also include effects due to the long-range nematic order, the anisotropic local environment surrounding the molecules, and the dynamical fluctuations of the molecules. In this paper, we explore methods to simplify computation of the molecular average second hyperpolarizability of the nematogen 4-n-pentyl-4-cyanobiphenyl (5CB). The model we develop relates changes in the geometrical parameters of the molecule to corresponding changes in the hyperpolarizability. The model is first applied to a simple donor-acceptor substituted polyene, and then to 5CB. Use of a small set of geometrical variables results in a slight increase in the RMS deviation of the predicted hyperpolarizability over the deviation obtained from a complete set. We then discuss the importance of this work for the development of means to calculate macroscopic optical properties.
Recorded Delirium in a National Sample of Elderly Inpatients: Potential Implications for Recognition

This retrospective study examined delirium and related confusional diagnoses recorded in patients older than age 60 discharged from Veterans Affairs (VA) acute inpatient units nationally in 1996 (n = 267,947). Only 4% of patients had delirium or related confusional diagnoses recorded. Patients with recorded delirium had significantly higher mortality than did those without recorded delirium or those with other confusional diagnoses (“organic psychoses”); the most common delirium types were dementia with delirium and alcohol intoxication/withdrawal delirium. Organic psychoses patients had the longest lengths of stay and significantly more admissions to nonmedical/surgical units and discharges to nursing homes; almost 20% were African American. The recorded rate of delirium in the VA health system likely underestimates true prevalence and possibly reflects nonrecognition of delirium in many older veterans. Certain motoric and etiologic types of delirium may be more commonly diagnosed and recorded. Future re...
The Impact of Direct Election on Reform Votes in the U.S. Senate

Objective. This investigation examines the extent to which direct election rendered the U.S. Senate more supportive of Progressive reforms, as indicated through roll-call outcomes. Methods. Pre- and postaggregate support coalitions are compared in a 16-year period bifurcated by passage of the Seventeenth Amendment (1905–1921), utilizing difference in means and ordinary least squares regression. An alternate test considers the aggregate impact of the rising percentage of states adopting pre-Amendment direct-election mechanisms. A difference in means test between Senate and House votes on similar bills is also provided. Results. Neither the Amendment nor the statewide movement toward direct election exerted the conventionally assumed, positive impact on reform support; House and Senate support scores were similar throughout the period. Conclusions. The data suggest a strong pro-reform tendency in the Senate throughout the timeframe. The probable reason direct election demonstrates so little of the expected impact on outcomes is that the Senate had already begun to move in that direction.
Left ventricular hypertrophy in cyclosporine-induced systemic hypertension after cardiac transplantation

Abstract Systemic hypertension usually develops in cyclosporinetreated heart transplant patients. 1 A major independent risk factor for cardiovascular events is left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy, 2 which may be expected with longstanding hypertension. We undertook this study to determine whether LV hypertrophy does develop in this setting, and if so, at what time after transplantation.
A benchmark-free approach to access the accuracy of an OLS model calculation in an econometrically uncertain world

Although it is possible to test the calculation accuracy of a software system’s implementation of OLS using sample datasets that have been extensively studied and have benchmarked answers, this approach will not help access the calculation accuracy of a user’s model for which such answers are not available. Since in theory estimated residuals of an OLS model are required to be orthogonal to the right-hand-side variables, this paper investigates the impact of changes in data precision and calculation method on the software’s success in achieving this goal. In attempting estimation of an OLS model the investigator must make two critical decisions. The first decision is the precision of the data used in the calculation, both how it was loaded and whether its precision was subsequently increased for the actual calculation. The second and related decision is the calculation method. To investigate these tradeoffs, two rather simple and well known data sets that do not exhibit extreme multicollinearity are used to illustrate the data precision / calculation method accuracy tradeoff.
Manganese oxide reduction as a form of anaerobic respiration

Abstract Some instances of bacterial manganese oxide reduction observed in nature and under laboratory conditions are a form of respiration. Anaerobiosis is not a necessary condition for its occurrence, although anaerobic reduction of manganese oxide which is inhibited by air has been reported. It is the kind of manganese reducing microorganism involved which determines whether anaerobic conditions are required. In at least some instances, complexed Mn(III) may be an extracellularly detectable intermediate in bacterial reduction of Mn(IV). A pyrophosphate complex of Mn(III) has been shown to be reduced by a bacterial culture. Only limited information is available to date concerning electron transport pathways in manganese reduction or organic carbon mineralization coupled to manganese respiration.
Heterologous Neutralizing Antibody Induction in a Simian-Human Immunodeficiency Virus Primate Model: Lack of Original Antigenic Sin

According to the principle of original antigenic sin, neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) initially directed against a single virus strain compromise the immune system's ability to subsequently mount adequate responses against antigenically divergent virus strains. In this study, rhesus macaques, after vaccination and breakthrough infection with homologous simian-human immunodeficiency virus (SHIV), developed strong SHIV-IIIB strain-directed NAb responses that were mostly V3 loop specific. After superinfection with heterologous SHIV89.6P, all macaques developed high-titer SHIV89.6P-specific NAbs without significant boosting of SHIV-IIIB-specific NAbs. These results indicate that prior B cell responses against a single immunodeficiency virus strain do not preclude the later development of NAbs against a divergent strain of the same virus.
Analytical and experimental studies of electromagnetic waves scattered by two-dimensional, dielectric very rough surfaces

Presents an analytical theory and millimeter-wave experiments for polarimetric scattering by two-dimensional, lossy dielectric rough surfaces with rms slopes of order unity. This is the region where backscattering enhancement takes place. The theory is based on the first- and second-order Kirchhoff approximations with shadowing corrections. The authors present analytical and experimental results for the co-polarized and cross-polarized scattering cross sections, showing the enhancement due to the multiple scattering on the surface. Calculated results agree well with the millimeter-wave experimental data.
Theoretical investigation of factors controlling the operating characteristics of quantum dot lasers: a review

Carrier-density-dependent internal optical loss sets an upper limit for operating temperatures and considerably reduces the characteristic temperature of a quantum dot (QD) laser. Such a loss also constrains the shallowest potential well depth and the smallest tolerable size of a QD at which the lasing can be attained. In a laser with a single layer of QDs, this loss can strongly limit the output power and cause a rollover of the light-current curve; it also imposes limitations on the conventional method of determining the internal quantum efficiency. Excited-state-mediated capture of carriers from the waveguide into the QD ground-state places a fundamental limitation on ground-state lasing - the output power saturates at high injection currents. The saturation power is controlled by the transition time between the excited- and ground-state in a QD. The longest, cut-off transition time exists, beyond which no ground-state lasing is possible. The maximum number of longitudinal modes that can oscillate in a QD laser increases with increasing surface density of QDs and remains limited (first increases and then decreases) with increasing scatter in the QD-size. In addition to the maximum tolerable scatter, there also exists the minimum scatter in the QD-size for each higher-order mode to start lasing.
On arrow paradox: preference ranking and decision making mechanism based on rating method and expert information

This paper deals with group decisions based on the rating methods of fuzzy and regular preference rankings. The preference ranking is one of the methods to solve so-called selection problems. Selection problems are very important for decision making in unique systems such as medical, environmental or ecological ones. Very often the right decision is based upon expert information. In this paper we deal with some approaches to the choice of the best variants [1], and its application to the multi-criteria optimization and decisions. This paper presents axiomatic systems of rating methods of preference ranking based on fuzzy expert information. Results include the convergence of consensus ranking to the real ranking almost everywhere, the inclusion of the consensus ranking into the Kemeny Median set [2], and that consensus ranking almost always (with probability one) satisfies all five Arrow axioms. It is shown, that contemporary rating systems, (for instance those used in sports classifications, [3]), are congruent in the sense of producing the same final preference ranking.
Preoperative Determinants of Quality of Life and Functional Capacity Response to Left Ventricular Assist Device Therapy.

Abstract Background Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) improve survival, quality of life (QOL), and functional capacity (FC) among patients with end-stage heart failure. Few data are available regarding characteristics associated with QOL and FC response. Methods and Results Patients enrolled in the Heartmate II clinical trials that were alive with ongoing LVAD support at 6 months were included. QOL response criteria included scoring above the lowest quartile on either the Minnesota Living With Heart Failure Questionnaire or the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire. FC responder criteria included improvement in 6-minute walk distance (6MWD) >70 meters from baseline, a 6MWD >220 meters at 6 months, or New York Heart Association functional class I or II. Independent variables associated with QOL nonresponse included history of diabetes (odds ratio [OR] 1.82, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.20–2.78), lower mean pulmonary arterial pressure (OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.95–0.99), or a Heartmate II right ventricular risk score >2 (OR 1.77, 95% CI 1.00–3.12). Variables associated with FC nonresponse included history of COPD (OR 1.92, 95% CI 1.22–3.03) or diabetes (OR 1.52, 95% CI 1.01–2.27). Compared with responders, QOL and FC nonresponders had reduced long-term survival. Conclusions Preoperative comorbidities, including diabetes, COPD, and right heart failure, may limit the QOL and FC response to LVAD therapy and should be considered during the shared decision-making process.
Computorized Reconstruction of Ultrasonic Velocity Fields for Mapping of Residual Stress

It is well known that the velocity of sound propagation through a solid is altered when a stress is applied. The velocity change is small, and dependent upon the type of wave being propagated as wall as the magnitude of the stress. Sensitivity is greatest to shear wave sound with the polarization vector parallel to the direction of stress. In this case, velocity changes as great as 0.6% have been measured. This paper describes preliminary work aimed at evaluating computerized reconstruction of velocity fields from velocity profiles to map residual stress concentrations in thick metal sections. We are currently using the Grid Technique of Sweeney and Vest for reconstructing data taken from liquid models. This method limits the number of rays and views that can be used; hence we intend to use the ART technique at a later date. We shall describe the experiment, electronic measuring system, the reconstruction method, and show reconstructions of 2% and 0.2% velocity anomalies in a liquid model and preliminary data in a steel model.
Log Cabin Stud: The Bipartisan Politically Powerful Stable

The paper examines the Log Cabin Stud, the race stable owned by George Herbert Walker and Averill Harriman.
The market maven: A diffuser of marketplace information.

The research focus is individuals who have information about many kinds of products, places to shop, and other facets of the market, and initiate discussions with and respond to information request...
Effect of Hydrocortisone Acetate on Mammary Gland Nucleic Content of Pregnant Rats

SummaryThe RNA and DNA content of mammary glands from pregnant rats treated with HCA was determined. Rats injected with 2 mg of HCA per day for 5 days during midpregnancy exhibited no difference in mammary DNA or RNA from that of mam- mary glands from control rats. Rats treated during late pregnancy also showed no change in DNA, but an increase in cellular RNA content was observed. These results are interpreted as indicating that a preparturient increase in corticosteroid activity may be involved in the normal initiation of lactation, but does not appear to be related to the increase in mammary DNA normally associated with the initiation of lactation.
Advances in the treatment of aortic valve disease: is it time for companion diagnostics?

Purpose of review Aortic valve disease (AVD) is a growing public health problem, and the pathogenesis underlying AVD is complex. The lack of durable bioprostheses and pharmacologic therapies remain central needs in care. The purpose of this review is to highlight recent clinical studies that impact the care of children with AVD and is to explore ongoing translational research efforts. Recent findings Clinical studies have evaluated the durability of bioprosthetics and surgical strategies, tested statins during early disease, and identified new predictive biomarkers. Large animal models have demonstrated the effectiveness of a novel bioprosthetic scaffold. Mouse models of latent AVD have advanced our ability to elucidate natural history and perform preclinical studies that test new treatments in the context of early disease. Summary Current priorities for AVD patients include identifying new pharmacologic treatments and developing durable bioprostheses. Multidisciplinary efforts are needed that bridge pediatric and adult programs, and bring together different types of expertise and leverage network and consortium resources. As our understanding of the underlying complex genetics is better defined, companion diagnostics may transform future clinical trials and ultimately improve the care of patients with AVD by promoting personalized medicine and early intervention.
On insulin I-131 metabolism in mice. Modifying effects of anti-insulin serum and of total insulin dosage

Estimations have been made on abilities of certain tissues of mice injected intravenously with insulin I-131 to concentrate and degrade this compound; change of I-131 from TCA insoluble to TCA soluble form has been used as measure of degradation. Insulin I-131, estimated as TCA insoluble I-131, was concentrated by liver and especially by kidney; formation of TCA soluble I-131 occurred most rapidly in liver. With insulin I-131 held constant but total insulin progressively increased, concentration ratios for TCA insoluble I-131 progressively increased in kidney, and decreased in other tissues. In all tissues, conversion of I-131 from TCA insoluble to TCA soluble form decreased progressively with increase in total insulin. Prior mixing of insulin I-131 with excess guinea pig anti-insulin serum (AIS) resulted in loss of tissue abilities to convert the I-131 into TCA soluble form, and in loss of abilities of all tissues other than liver to concentrate this TCA insoluble I-131.