cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Quantitative trait loci for abdominal fat and BMI in Hispanic-Americans and African-Americans: the IRAS Family study.

To conduct linkage analysis for body mass index (BMI, kg/m2), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), visceral adipose tissue mass (VAT, cm2) and subcutaneous adipose tissue mass (SAT, cm2) using a whole genome scan. Cross-sectional family study. African-American families from Los Angeles (AA, n=21 extended pedigrees) and Hispanic-American families (HA) from San Antonio, TX (HA-SA, n=33 extended pedigrees) and San Luis Valley, CO (HA-SLV, n=12 extended pedigrees), totaling 1049 individuals in the Insulin Resistance and Atherosclerosis (IRAS) Family Study. VAT and SAT were measured using a computed tomography scan obtained at the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae. All phenotypes were adjusted for age, gender, and study center. VAT, SAT, and WHR were analyzed both unadjusted and adjusted for BMI. Significant linkage to BMI was found at D3S2387 (LOD=3.67) in African-Americans, and at D17S1290 in Hispanic-Americans (LOD=2.76). BMI-adjusted WHR was linked to 12q13–21 (D12S297 (LOD=2.67) and D12S1052 (LOD=2.60)) in Hispanic-Americans. The peak LOD score for BMI-adjusted VAT was found at D11S2006 (2.36) in Hispanic families from San Antonio. BMI-adjusted SAT was linked to D5S820 in Hispanic families (LOD=2.64). Evidence supporting linkage of WHR at D11S2006, VAT at D17S1290, and SAT at D1S1609, D3S2387, and D6S1056 was dependent on BMI, such that the LOD scores became nonsignificant after adjustment of these phenotypes for BMI. Our findings both replicate previous linkage regions and suggest novel regions in the genome that may harbor quantitative trait locis contributing to variation in measures of adiposity.
The quartz content and elemental composition of aerosols from selected sites of the EPA inhalable particulate network

Abstract The elemental composition and concentration of quartz in ambient aerosols collected on dichotomous filters from the EPA Inhalable Particulate Network (IPN) in 1980 have been determined by X-ray fluorescence and mass calibration methods of X-ray diffraction (XRD). Quartz concentrations were also determined by reference intensity ratio methods of XRD from high-volume (hi-vol) filters from ten U.S. cities and were compared with data obtained from the dichotomous samples. Twenty five individual sites are represented in the quartz analysis phase of the study. These analyses demonstrate that for all IPN sites, an average of only 4.9 (±2.3) weight per cent of the coarse particle mass as measured by the dichotomous samplers consists of quartz and 0.4 (±0.7) weight per cent as quartz in the fine fraction. Continental interior sites show the highest average quartz content as well as the greatest variability. Except for highly industrialized sites, the Coastal regions and Eastern interior sites reveal the lowest quartz concentrations. The quartz levels observed at Research Triangle Park, NC, Seattle, WA, and Portland, OR, are the lowest of the dichotomous data set, whereas those at Boston, MA, and Five Points, CA, represent the highest levels. The Si concentrations obtained from the quartz analyses were compared with Si measured directly by X-ray fluorescence on the same filters. The complete aerosol X-ray spectra from some samples such as Portland, OR, shows that the Si comes primarily from minerals such as feldspars, whereas the Si in the Buffalo, NY, aerosol comes primarily from quartz. The concentration of quartz combined with elemental composition and other crustal or anthropogenic constituents observed on the filters provides a means for developing unique geographical airshed signatures for use in detailed source apportionment studies.
Writing professional reports: A guide for students — Russell Rutter and Karl E. Gwiasda

Why would professional engineers want to read a writing guide for students? After all, as professionals, they already use methods of definition and classification; they already describe processes, mechanisms, layouts, and organizations. They most likely write proposals of sorts and, of course, long reports. So why would they want to review what they already do? To improve it. of course.
Effects of anesthesia on efferent phrenic activity in neonatal swine.

Abstract The effects of two levels of Saffan anesthesia (standard recording level: 2–4 mg/kg/min, and 10x recording level) and a single level of pentobarbital (5 mg/kg) on the power spectral density of efferent phrenic discharge were investigated in piglets aged from1day to50days. The phrenic high frequency oscillation (HFO) was present in decerebrate, unanesthetized piglets and in piglets anesthetized with Saffan, albeit reduced at 10 times recording level, but was absent under pentobarbital. The results indicate that Saffan does not have a significantly depressant effect on the phrenic HFO in developing swine.
The Evolution of Inter-Firm Collaboration in Supply Chain Networks

To date, no published study has measured the evolution of supply chain structure and relationships in response to changing product-market development requirements. This research draws upon production literature and exchange governance theory to simulate the interaction of supply and demand environment factors on the growth and development of supply chain relationships. Experiments were conducted to study the effects of different rates of product change, different demand environments, and different economies of scale on the level of integration between firms at different levels in the supply chain. It synthesizes the interrelationships of the simulation variables in order to extend TCA theory into a dynamic network environment by using the CAS paradigm. The study reveals definite patterns of evolution under conditions of differing product-market conditions, it confirms the importance of the balancing transaction and production costs, and it highlights the asymmetries of transactional and production costs in relationships.
Ultrastructure of a benign polypoid rhabdomyoma of the vagina

Polypold vaginal lesions containing striated muscle characteristically give rise to a diagnosis of sarcoma botryoides with its consequent therapeutic and prognostic implications. This report describes the second patient in the American literature with a benign polypoid vaginal tumor containing striated muscle. The patient was an asymptomatic 50-year-old Caucasian woman with a 2-year history of a nonulcerated polypoid mass in the anterior third of the vagina. She has remained asymptomatic and without recurrence 6 months after local excision of the lesion. Histologically, there was an edematous stroma with rhabdomyoblasts having longitudinal myofibrils and conspicuous cross striations diffusely sprinkled among mature fibroblasts and unit fibrils of collagen. There was no mitotic activity or cellular atypia. Ultrastructural study disclosed that a majority of the rhabdomyoblasts were composed of well-organized sarcomeric units with the Z bands in register, reminiscent of normal striated muscle. Our studies indicate that the vaginal rhabdomyoma has distinctive histologic and clinical features which differentiate it from other polypoid vaginal lesions as well as from rhabdo-myomas of skeletal muscle.
Block of inactivation-deficient cardiac Na+ channels by acetyl-KIFMK-amide

Abstract The Na + channel α-subunit contains an IFM motif that is critical for the fast inactivation process. In this study, we sought to determine whether an IFM-containing peptide, acetyl-KIFMK-amide, blocks open cardiac Na + channels via the inner cavity. Intracellular acetyl-KIFMK-amide at 2 mM elicited a rapid time-dependent block ( τ = 0.24 ms) of inactivation-deficient human heart Na + channels (hNav1.5-L409C/A410W) at +50 mV. In addition, a peptide-induced tail current appeared conspicuously upon repolarization, suggesting that the activation gate cannot close until acetyl-KIFMK-amide is cleared from the open pore. Repetitive pulses (+50 mV for 20 ms at 1 Hz) produced a substantial use-dependent block of both peak and tail currents by ∼65%. A F1760K mutation (hNav1.5-L409C/A410W/F1760K) abolished the use-dependent block by acetyl-KIFMK-amide and hindered the time-dependent block. Competition experiments showed that acetyl-KIFMK-amide antagonized bupivacaine binding. These results are consistent with a model that two acetyl-KIFMK-amide receptors exist in proximity within the Na + channel inner cavity.
Electromagnetic pulse scattered by a sphere

The magnetic field integral equation for transient electromagnetic scattering by a perfectly conducting sphere is solved by the stepping-in-time procedure. The contributions to the surface current density (SCD) from the self-patch, where the integrand is singular, and from the neighboring patches can be computed by formulas that are more accurate for these patches than the simple product used for other patches. These formulas have to include the time-derivative term of the integrand for the computation of the initial (small) values of the SCD. The improvement in the values of the scattered fields due to these corrections is significant but not dramatic.
The organization of oligonucleosomes in yeast

We have developed a method of preparing yeast chromatin that facilitates the analysis of nucleoprotein organization. Yeast chromatin, isolated as an insoluble complex, is digested with micrococcal nuclease and fractionated into major insoluble and soluble fractions. No nucleosomal repeat is seen early in digestion for the insoluble fraction. Nucleosomal complexes of the soluble fraction are excised by nuclease in a distinctive non-random pattern; they are markedly depleted in mononucleosomes. When we analyze the soluble material by high resolution native electrophoresis, we find that the nucleoproteins resolve into two bands for each DNA multimer of the nucleosomal repeat. Our results suggest that there are structural similarities between bulk yeast chromatin and chromatin configurations found in transcribing genes of complex eukaryotes.
Moral Disengagement in Science and Business Students: An Exploratory Study

Cases of unethical business practices and technical failures have been extensively reported. It seems that actions are often taken by individuals with little apparent concern for those affected by their negative outcomes, which can be described as moral disengagement. This study investigates levels of moral disengagement demonstrated by business and science undergraduate students. Results indicate higher levels of moral disengagement in men than in women, but few significant differences between students majoring in business and those majoring in science.
Reduction of sea star predation by the burrowing response of the hard clam Mercenaria mercenaria (Mollusca: Bivalvia)

The hard clam Mercenaria mercenaria burrows deeper into the sediment when the predaceous sea star, Asterias forbesi is present. The supposition that this increase in burial depth represents an escape response designed to reduce predation was tested experimentally by regulating clam burial depth through manipulation of the amount of sediment available for burial. Mercenaria maintained at zero depth were eaten by Asterias at greater rates than those held at ordinary burial depths (2.5–3.0 cm). These clams in turn were eaten at greater rates than those maintained at escape depths (4.0–4.5 cm). The results unambiguously establish an anti-predator function for the burrowing response, as well as underscoring the protective function of the fossorial habit. They are not confounded by behavioral predator food preferences, inherent differences between prey species, or debilitating side effects of preventing prey from escaping. Mechanisms by which the burrowing response may reduce predation are discussed and observations on the unreported clam-digging behavior of Asterias forbesi are presented.
Influence of tree species on continental differences in boreal fires and climate feedbacks

Wildfires are common in boreal forests around the globe and strongly influence ecosystem processes. However, North American forests support more high-intensity crown fires than Eurasia, where lower-intensity surface fires are common. These two types of fire can result in different net effects on climate as a consequence of their contrasting impacts on terrestrial albedo and carbon stocks. Here we use remote-sensing imagery, climate reanalysis data and forest inventories to evaluate differences in boreal fire dynamics between North America and Eurasia and their key drivers. Eurasian fires were less intense, destroyed less live vegetation, killed fewer trees and generated a smaller negative shortwave forcing. As fire weather conditions were similar across continents, we suggest that different fire dynamics between the two continents resulted from their dominant tree species. In particular, species that have evolved to spread and be consumed by crown fires as part of their life cycle dominate North American boreal forests. In contrast, tree species that have evolved to resist and suppress crown fires dominate Eurasian boreal forests. We conclude that species-level traits must be considered in global evaluations of the effects of fire on emissions and climate. Boreal forest wildfires in North America are more intense and destructive than in Eurasia. Differences in species-level adaptations to fire are primary drivers of these differences in fire regimes.
Partial nephrectomy: the rationale for expanding the indications.

Background We report preliminary results of partial nephrectomy for renal tumors of ≥4 cm in 39 patients with the intent of extending the indications for kidney-sparing surgery.
Eighteen-month clinical evaluation of a filled and unfilled dentin adhesive

Abstract Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the performance of a filled (OptiBond Solo) and an unfilled (Prime & Bond 2.1) “one-bottle” adhesive in Class V restorations after 18 months of clinical service. Methods: Thirty-three patients with non-carious cervical lesions were enrolled in the study. A total of 101 lesions were restored using one of the adhesives and a hybrid composite resin. Enamel was not beveled, nor was any mechanical retention placed. The restorations were evaluated at baseline, and at 6 and 18 months after placement using modified USPHS criteria. Results: Cumulative 18-month retention rates were 93.6% for OptiBond Solo and 98.0% for Prime & Bond 2.1. The difference in retention rates was not statistically significant. For OptiBond Solo, the only notable problems were interfacial staining and marginal adaptation, both of which were less than ideal in 9% of restorations. Marginal problems were slightly less frequent for Prime & Bond 2.1 restorations, but the difference was not significant. Conclusions: Both adhesives provided Class V retention rates exceeding the 18-month, full acceptance guidelines set by the American Dental Association. Any additional benefit provided by the use of a filled adhesive was not detected in this 18-month clinical trial.
Oxidative chemical vapor deposition of polyacenaphthylene, polyacenaphthene, and polyindane via benzoyl peroxide

Abstract A method is presented to polymerize inexpensive and readily available electron-rich monomers via oxidative chemical vapor deposition. The process uses benzoyl peroxide, an organic oxidant, flash evaporated from a chloroform solution via direct liquid injection. The deposition temperatures ranged from 35 °C for indane to 125 °C for acenaphthylene and acenaphthene. These temperatures were determined by the volatility and melting point of the monomers, which were vaporized without the addition of a carrier gas. Benzoyl peroxide was not cracked into its respective free radical species but instead used as an oxidant at the substrate temperature. Polyacenaphthylene was deposited as a yellow film indicative of its highly conjugated polymer backbone, whereas polyacenaphthene and polyindane were both transparent dielectrics. Polyacenaphthylene and polyacenaphthene had higher average indices of refraction 1.6819 and 1.6640 (at 632.8 nm) than polyindane 1.5690, likely representing their higher density.
Mechanisms of Double Resonance in Solids

A study of electron-nuclear double resonance (ENDOR) in ruby and other solids demonstrates the existence of the "distant-ENDOR" effect, which involves a change in the electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) signal caused by the depolarization of "distant" nuclei (nuclei having negligible hyperfine interaction with the paramagnetic centers). In order to obtain interpretable data on the mechanism, it proved necessary to perform most of the experiments without modulation, observing not the derivatives but the functions ${\ensuremath{\chi}}^{\ensuremath{'}}$ and ${\ensuremath{\chi}}^{\ensuremath{'}\ensuremath{'}}$ themselves, the dispersive and absorptive parts of the spin susceptibility. The former shows a large decrease upon application of rf power at a nuclear transition frequency; the latter shows a moderate increase. Both the distant ENDOR (${\mathrm{Al}}^{27}$ nuclear Zeeman frequencies) and local ENDOR (${\mathrm{Cr}}^{53}$ hyperfine frequencies) affect the EPR with a response time comparable to the spin-lattice relaxation time of the distant aluminum nuclei. Nuclear-nuclear double-resonance experiments show that applied rf corresponding to ${\mathrm{Cr}}^{53}$ nuclear transitions depolarizes ${\mathrm{Al}}^{27}$ nuclei. Both of these observations are consistent with a mechanism involving dynamic nuclear polarization. A theoretical analysis of this mechanism, based on forbidden transitions involving distant nuclei, gives good agreement with observed nuclear polarizations and with the observed behavior of ${\ensuremath{\chi}}^{\ensuremath{'}}$, but predicts small increases in ${\ensuremath{\chi}}^{\ensuremath{'}\ensuremath{'}}$. The increased absorption signal may be explained by enhanced spectral spin diffusion or by a spin packet considerably wider than assumed. Distant ENDOR is expected to occur quite generally.
An electro-osmotic micro-pump based on monolithic silica for micro-flow analyses and electro-sprays.

A high-pressure electro-osmotic micro-pump fabricated by a sol–gel process is reported as a fluid-driving unit in a flow-injection analysis (FIA) system. The micro FIA system consists of a monolithic micro-pump on a glass slide (2.5×7.5 cm), a micro-injector, and a micro-sensor (2.5×1.5 cm). The monolithic silica matrix has a continuous skeleton morphology with micrometer-sized through-pores. The micrometer-size pores with a large negative surface charge density build up a large pressure under a DC electric field to drive fluid through the downstream units. A novel Nafion joint for the downstream cathode eliminates flow into the electrode reservoir and further enhances pressure build-up. The measured pump-pressure curve indicated a maximum pressure of 0.4 MPa at flow rate of 0.4 μL min−1 at 6 kV. Despite the large voltage, the small current transmission area through the monolith produced a negligible current (less than 100 μA) that did not generate bubbles or ion contaminants. The flow rate can be precisely controlled in the range 200 nL to 2.5 μL min−1 by varying the voltage from 1 to 6 kV. The high pump pressure and the large current-free DC field also enabled the pump to act as an electro-spray interface with a downstream analytical instrument.
Life and death in the thymus—cell death signaling during T cell development

The thymus is an organ vital to proper T cell development, and the regulation of cell survival and death contributes significantly to its efficient function. Vital to many of the developmental processes that occur in the thymus, control over cell survival and death is orchestrated by several signaling processes. In this review, we focus on the regulation of death in early thymocytes known as CD4/CD8 double negative cells, including the roles of interleukin-7 and Bcl-2 family members in this developmental stage. We next consider the survival and death of later thymocytes that express both CD4 and CD8, the 'double-positive' thymocytes. These findings are discussed within the context of recent studies demonstrating the existence of caspase-independent cell death pathways.
Nonviolent revolutions: civil resistance in the late 20th century

Nonviolent revolutions: civil resistance in the late 20th century, by Sharon Erickson Nepstad, Oxford, Oxford University Press, 2011, xi + 137 pp., notes, references, index, $24.95 (paperback), ISB...
New Zener Diode Structure Between Base and the Collector Using Retrograded Profile

A new Zener diode structure for bipolar transistor is proposed and analyzed. By placing the Zener diode at junction termination, we could obtain stable clamped breakdown voltage without deterioration of device performance. P+ layer of the Zener diode is embedded with base of transistor simultaneously so that whole functional behaviors of the composite transistor could be realized with relatively simple process. The breakdown voltage of the Zener diode is controlled only by adjusting of the phosphorus implantation dose. The breakdown voltage distribution of the fabricated Zener diode is less than ±4%. The BVCBO and BVCEO of bipolar transistors are about 50 V, same as the breakdown voltage of Zener diodes. And the DC current gain is 300 at VCE=2 V and IC=0.5 A
Peritoneal drainage versus laparotomy for necrotizing enterocolitis and intestinal perforation: a meta-analysis.

Background To determine whether peritoneal drain (PD) or laparotomy (LAP) is the most effective intervention in premature neonates with necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) or intestinal perforation (IP). Methods A systematic review of the published literature between January 2000 and December 2008 was undertaken. Prospective studies with at least 25 patients in each of the PD and LAP arms were selected. Gestational age, birth weight, operation, and mortality data were extracted. Results Five prospective studies (two level I, three level II) with 523 (273 PD, 250 LAP) participants followed for mortality met selection criteria. Using a fixed effect model, the combined estimate indicates an increased mortality of 55% with PD (OR 1.55, 95% CI: 1.08–2.22, P = 0.02) without statistical heterogeneity (χ 2 = 5.88, P = 0.21). PD patients were 0.78 wk younger ( P = 0.0002) and 67g smaller ( P = 0.0006). Analysis of the three level II trials yielded a combined estimate indicating an excess mortality of 89% with PD patients (95% CI: 1.20–2.98, P = 0.006) without statistical heterogeneity (χ 2 = 3.74, P = 0.15). Conclusions PD is associated with 55% excess mortality compared with LAP. Pediatric surgeons must individually assess and select patients with NEC and IP for optimal surgical therapy.
Non-negative matrix factorization algorithms modeling noise distributions within the exponential family

We developed non-negative factorization algorithms based on statistical distributions which are members of the exponential family, and using multiplicative update rules. We compared in detail the performance of algorithms derived using two particular exponential family distributions, assuming either constant variance noise (Gaussian) or signal dependent noise (gamma). These algorithms were compared on both simulated data sets and on muscle activation patterns collected from behaving animals. We found that on muscle activation patterns, which are expected to be corrupted by signal dependent noise, the factorizations identified by the algorithm assuming gamma distributed data were more robust than those identified by the algorithm assuming Gaussian distributed data
Software architectures and embedded systems: a match made in heaven?

One area from which we might gain leverage in the ubiquitous- and embedded-systems domain is software architecture, which has emerged over the past decade as an area of intense interest among researchers and practitioners. Such interest has resulted in many approaches to dealing with architectural description and analysis, architectural styles, domain-specific and application family architectures, and architecture-based dynamic system adaptation. By and large, however, these approaches share assumptions that make them suited specifically to the domain of traditional, desktop-based development platforms. Those comparatively few architecture-based solutions that have focused on software systems for embedded devices have faced some traditional development challenges (such as applying solutions across an application family) but have also had different priorities (for example, ensuring efficient, architecture-compliant system implementations). In this article, the author draw general distinctions between "traditional" software architectures and those targeted at embedded systems. The author focuses on several areas that traditional software architecture research has studied and discusses their applicability and potential shortcomings in the embedded-systems context.
LibSBML: an API library for SBML.

LibSBML is an application programming interface library for reading, writing, manipulating and validating content expressed in the Systems Biology Markup Language (SBML) format. It is written in ISO C and C++, provides language bindings for Common Lisp, Java, Python, Perl, MATLAB and Octave, and includes many features that facilitate adoption and use of both SBML and the library. Developers can embed libSBML in their applications, saving themselves the work of implementing their own SBML parsing, manipulation and validation software.
myths that divide: immigrant labor and class segmentation in the Belizean banana industry

Since 1980 thousands of immigrants have fled to Belize from political and economic crises elsewhere in Central America. The country has since witnessed growing confrontation between Afro-Belizeans and Hispanic immigrants. This article examines how national identity is reproduced by the recruitment of labor in the Belizean banana industry, where most Afro-Belizean workers have been replaced by immigrants. Myths of ethnicity rationalize the displacement of Belizeans from farm labor in terms of supposed cultural and innate attributes of the region's ethnic groups. Recruitment of immigrant workers suggests revisions of class segmentation theories of ethnic conflict, notably the need to examine workers' responses to discrimination through everyday forms of resistance. [immigrant labor, class segmentation, Belize, banana industry, ethnic conflict, resistance]
Idiopathic Reactive Hyperplasia of the Retinal Pigment Epithelium

Objectives To present and discuss 2 patients with acquired peripapillary pigmented lesions. Methods We reviewed the patients' clinical records and histopathologic findings. Results The first patient was diagnosed with a pigmented papillary lesion that was followed up for 38 years. The second patient was a child with neurofibromatosis type 1 who developed a pigmented peripapillary lesion following excision of an optic nerve glioma. Histologic findings in both cases demonstrated hyperplasia of the retinal pigment epithelium with associated findings. Conclusions The lesions presented an idiopathic reactive hyperplasia of the retinal pigment epithelium. The clinical and histopathologic findings resemble findings reported with the combined hamartoma. We suggest that such lesions are reactive in nature, rather than hamartomatous.
Interconversion of Inverse Opals of Electrically Conducting Doped Titanium Oxides and Nitrides

There is a need for conducting, porous, and chemically stable materials for technologies including, but not limited to, fuel cells, solar cells, and batteries. The need for catalyst support materials that are more durable than carbon black in fuel cells motivated previous studies of the synthesis, characterization, and corrosion resistance of Ti(0.7) W(0.3) O(2) nanoparticles. However, because even higher porosity and increased electrical conductivity are desired, processes were developed to prepare rutile phase Ti(0.7) W(0.3) O(2) and cubic Ti(0.7) W(0.3) N in inverse opal morphologies from a precursor inverse opal of very poorly conducting, amorphous Ti(0.7) W(0.3) O(2.3) . Inverse opals have been explored for a variety of applications from catalysis to photonics, and inverse opals of both oxides and nitrides have been reported. By synthesizing highly conducting mixed-metal oxides and mixed-metal nitrides, the applications of inverse opals can be broadened. Herein, the synthesis and characterization of polystyrene-templated, single-phase, crystalline inverse opals of Ti(0.7) W(0.3) O(2) are reported. These conducting inverse opals can subsequently be converted to inverse opals of Ti(0.7) W(0.3) N and then fully oxidized back to inverse opals of the original insulating, amorphous Ti(0.7) W(0.3) O(2.3) . Such changes in composition and crystal structure, while successfully retaining the inverse opal morphology without the use of a supporting template during the conversion, have not been previously reported.
Do-It-Yourself Ruby Laser

In the course of developing a portable holo-camera for field use, a small battery powered ruby laser, based on an electronic flash unit, was built. In this letter we describe the laser in sufficient detail to allow others to build one for themselves.
Two Catastrophic Floods: Similarities and Differences in Effects on an Ozark Stream Fish Community

In December 1982 a devastating flood occurred in Piney Creek, in the rural Ozark Mountains in Izard County, Arkansas, with vertical stage rises of 2–4 m in the headwaters, 11–12 m at downstream locations, and an estimated return time of 50–100 years. Physical effects in the watershed were catastrophic, with extreme scour and rearrangement of the stream bed, destruction of riparian forest, and deposition of huge amounts of sand from the creek in adjacent pastures or forest. In spite of the extreme nature of this winter flood, residual effects on the overall fish community of the watershed were minimal, and by eight months after the event, the community was virtually indistinguishable from that in the previous summer. In March–April 2008 flooding of equal or greater magnitude than the 1982 flood again occurred in Piney Creek. We followed effects of the spring 2008 flood on local fishes at five long-term fixed sites in the watershed, and on the fish community pooled across those sites, four months after the ...
Mass Transfer Aspects of Pan Evaporation

Abstract Experimental evaporation data which were obtained with shallow, square pans of different sizes and colors, were studied by means of regression analysis relating evaporation with the difference between the water vapor pressure at the water surface and in the air, pan size, and wind speed at various elevations. These relationships are expressed by different equations for mass transfer whose functional form is widely accepted in the literature, or derivable by means of theoretical diffusion models. A comparison is made of the goodness-of-fit of the different theoretical equations to the experimental data.
Information access and retrieval with semantic background knowledge

The rapid growth of on-line information on the Internet and other platforms presents a great challenge to information retrieval systems. However, improvements in information retrieval technology have not kept pace with the growth in available information. State-of-the-art information retrieval systems rely exclusively on literal matching of keywords in queries and documents. In order to shoulder a greater load in searching for information and to improve the effectiveness of searches, information retrieval systems need the ability to automatically match user queries and documents without relying on literal equivalence. This dissertation presents a framework for generalization through the incorporation of semantic knowledge into information retrieval systems. The semantic knowledge is extracted from an online Webster's dictionary and a thesaurus named WordNet. The use of semantic knowledge is guided by constructing structured representations of the queries and the text, which identify the roles being played by the salient words. Generalization is controlled by the use of application-dependent matching rules. The dissertation describes the architecture, implementation and evaluation of two applications, ImEngine and NetSerf, built using this framework. ImEngine retrieves captions of pictures and video clips using natural language queries. NetSerf is a system that enables information access by finding Internet information archives in response to user queries. The performance of ImEngine and NetSerf is compared to that of a standard keyword-based retrieval system, SMART. The dissertation also presents new techniques for the extraction of semantic knowledge from the dictionary, and for word-sense disambiguation using the dictionary and WordNet. Both ImEngine and NetSerf are evaluated with respect to the three main components of the framework: semantic knowledge, structured representations and disambiguation. (Copies available exclusively from MIT Libraries, Rm. 14-0551, Cambridge, MA 02139-4307. Ph. 617-253-5668; Fax 617-253-1690.)
Clinical Predictors of Isolated Tubal Torsion: A Case Series.

Abstract Study Objective A rare cause of adolescent abdominal pain includes isolated tubal torsion (ITT). Presentation is nonspecific and few studies have investigated ITT in adolescents. Our study objective was to describe the presentation and management of ITT in a large case series. Design Retrospective observational case series. Setting Tertiary care children's hospital. Participants Participants were female and aged 3-21 years, presenting to Children's Hospital Colorado and diagnosed with ITT between January 2004 and August 2015. Interventions and Main Outcome Measures Clinical presentation, physical exam, laboratory findings, surgical diagnosis, and treatment provided. Results A total of 19 cases were included. Average age was 13.3 (range, 11-18) years. In patients with unilateral abdominal pain (n = 16), there was 100% correlation with side of adnexal pathology. Ultrasound examination in 14 of 18 cases (78%) noted abnormal findings ipsilateral to the ITT. Most cases were managed with laparoscopy (84%; n = 16 of 19) and detorsion with or without cystectomy (74%; n = 14 of 19). Salpingectomy was more common with prolonged pain greater than 24 hours (relative risk 5.6, 95% confidence interval, 0.7-39.0). The most common intraoperative finding was a paratubal cyst (74%; n = 14 of 19). When Doppler flow was performed, it was present in 88% (n = 16 of 18) of the affected adnexa. ITT was more common on the left side (68%; n = 13 of 19). Conclusion The high occurrence of paratubal cysts might suggest pathologic predisposition for ITT. Providers should maintain a high index of suspicion for ITT, particularly if associated with a paratubal cyst. Classic examination findings of surgical abdomen, leukocytosis, fever, and absence of Doppler flow are infrequently present. Laparoscopy and detorsion are appropriate treatments for managing ITT.
Design of a Personalized Skin Grafting Methodology Using an Additive Biomanufacturing System Guided by 3D Photogrammetry

In this paper, the authors propose a novel method whereby a prescribed simulated skin graft is 3D printed, followed by the realization of a 3D model representation using an open-source software AutoDesk 123D Catch to reconstruct the entire simulated skin area. The methodology is photogrammetry, which measures the 3D model of a real-word object. Specifically, the principal algorithm of the photogrammetry is structure from motion (SfM) which provides a technique to reconstruct a 3D scene from a set of images collected using a digital camera. This is an efficient approach to reconstruct the burn depth compared to other non-intrusive 3D optical imaging modalities (laser scanning, optical coherence tomography). Initially, an artificial human hand with representative dimensions is designed using a CAD design program. Grooves with a step-like depth pattern are then incorporated into the design in order to simulate a skin burn wound depth map. Then, the *.stl format file of the virtually wounded artificial hand is extruded as a thermoplastic material, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), using a commercial 3D printer. Next, images of the grooves representing different extents of burned injury are acquired by a digital camera from different directions with respect to the artificial hand. The images stored in a computer are then imported into AutoDesk 123D Catch to process the images, thereby yielding the 3D surface model of the simulated hand with a burn wound depth map. The output of the image processing is a 3D model file that represents the groove on the plastic object and thus the burned tissue area. One dimensional sliced sections of the designed model and reconstructed model are compared to evaluate the accuracy of the reconstruction methodology. Finally, the 3D CAD model is designed with a prescribed internal tissue scaffold structure and sent to the dedicated software of the 3D printing system to print the design of the virtual skin graft with biocompatible material poly-e-caprolactone (PCL).Copyright © 2015 by ASME
Intercepting Drainage Wells in Artesian Aquifer

Formula for channel seepage to artesian aquifer and for resulting piezo-metric surface is presented; based on function accounting for excess irrigation and leaching water and on conventional well potential theory, method for designing intercepting drainage wells for such aquifer underlying irrigated lands is described.
ARE THE OPERATIONS THE SAME IN TRADITIONAL AND NONTRADITIONAL CONSERVATION TASKS

This study evaluated the relation of performance on consetvation tasks (Piaget, 1952) to judgments of quantity on tasks without initial equivalence. Subjects (29 girls and 29 boys) were drawn from 5 kindergarten classes in metropolitan New York City. They were of normal to above average intelligence, with a mean of 5 yr., 3 mo. (SD = 4 mo.). Children were assessed on conservation of number and liquid tasks, each containing two items. Two other tasks for number and liquid were then used without the initial equivalence of traditional conservation tasks. Each child was instructed to find out which container had more in it or whether the containers had the same amount. The number problem consisted of two transparent plastic boxes, one with 8 checkers, the other with 8 plastic pieces varying in size, shape, and color. For the liquid problem, the experimenter screened a plastic champagne glass and an opaque paper cup while she poured 3 oz. of colored liquid in each, then removed the screen. Near the two containers of liquid were a measuring cup, another opaque paper cup of the same size, and two identical clear plastic cups. The experimenter recorded what the child said and did. Scoring of conservation used Gelman's (1969) criteria. On traditional and nontraditional tasks of conservation of number, performance was not closely associated (+ = .21, p > -05). Thirty-one of the 58 children gave nonconserving responses on the traditional tasks. Of these, 12 (39%) succeeded on the number with initial nonequivalence. In most cases, the determinations were based on one-to-one correspondence or counting. Of the 27 children classified as partial or full conservers on number, only 16 (59%) determined that the quantities were equivalent. There was a significant association of performance on both types of liquid tasks (+ = .53, p < .001). All 6 conservers on the traditional conservation of liquid tasks were able to conserve when there was initial nonequivalence of liquid. Eleven of the nonconservers (21%) determined that the quantities were the same and provided sufficient verbal justification to classify them as conservers on this task. In addition, 9 nonconservers (17%) said the two quantities were the same though they could not adequately articulate their reasons. Are the schemata accessed in evaluating quantities with initial equivalence and initial nonequivalence the same? Because there is no relationship between performance on the two types of numerical tasks, it appears that different schemata may be used. One possibility is that the operatory suuctures of novice and expert conservers actually differ (Resnick & Gelman, 1984).
Effect of Molecular Weights of Polymers on Rheological Behavior of Alumina Suspension and Properties of Alumina Green Sheets

Effect of molecular weight of acrylic polymers on alumina suspension and alumina green sheet was investigated. The polymers used in the present work were butyl methacrylate-methacrylic acid copolymers. Weight-average molecular weight (Mw) of polymers were 2.4, 5.5, 11.0 and 19.1 (×104) respectively. The average diamater of 2 types of alumina particles were 0.6, 2.0μm. The suspensions of alumina particles were well dispersed by using the polymers. In the case of 0.6μm alumina, the suspension prepared by Mw: 2.4×104 polymer was most dispersed, however, cracking happened during the drying process. It was found that the cracking caused by less stress relaxation by oscillatory measurement of suspension. Judging from rheological behavior of suspensions, cracking during drying and properties of green sheets, polymers of more than 10×104Mw were suitable for forming alumina green sheets.
The Standardized Management Effect of Newborn Babies with Preventive Inoculation for the First Time

Objective To discuss the standardized management effect of newborn babies with the preventive inoculation for the first time. Method Through the hardware,personnel training and operation procedure standardized management of newborn babies with the preventive inoculation,to observe the participation condition of newborn babies with preventive inoculation for the first time,attrition rate of vaccine,satisfaction of parturient and family members. Result After implementing standardized management of newborn babies with preventive inoculation for the first time,the rate of vaccination of newborn baby reached 99.93% without any untoward effect and complications,and the attrition rate of vaccine decreased by 37%,the satisfaction of parturient and family members reached 99.61%. Conclusion The standardized management of newborn babies with preventive inoculation for the first time can effectively guarantee the safety and rate of vaccination,greatly reduce the attrition rate of vaccine,and increase the service satisfaction.
LD analog optical transmitter at severe environment

With the aim of improving the reliability of optical fibre system in the application of intense transient nuclear and electromagnetic radiations,we have researched theoretically and experimentally on LD analog optical transmitters.The experimental results show that the transmitter is capable of resistant radiation and can work properly at gamma dose rate of 8ｘ10~17/s.cm~2. Efficient electromagnetic shield can also make the device work properly in space EMP field of 6ｘ10~4/m.
Health Function and Manufacture of Brown Rice Tea

The brown rice is a kind of traditional and natural healthy food in China.On the other hand,the brown rice tea and the germinated brown rice tea have a lot of nutrient elements,which can promote blood flow,stool patency,small intestine patency,cosmetology,weight reduction and cancer prevention.This paper reviewed the health function and manufacture of the brown rice tea and the germinated brown rice tea.In conclusion,based on the related documents provided,we wish to offer some new angles in the research of the brown rice tea.
Naive Diversification Isn't So Naive After All

I conduct a horse-race of 15 portfolio construction techniques over 8 empirical datasets comprised of individual stocks. I also conduct a robust Monte Carlo analysis that confirms that recent extensions of mean-variance optimization due to Kirby and Ostdiek (2012) are successful in curbing estimation risk and turnover. Despite these facts, my results indicate that no strategy consistently outperforms naive diversification in terms of mean excess return, Sharpe ratio, and turnover. I introduce a statistic, the time series average of the cross-sectional mean absolute deviation of risk and return, to explain why I observe these results. Data limitations and dataset characteristics contribute the most to the performance of a candidate strategy. I also propose several extensions to active timing strategies and include new characteristics in a parametric portfolio choice framework. Naive diversification continues to prevail, suggesting practical optimization techniques are inferior to naive diversification when forming portfolios of individual stocks.
A neurologist's approach to a patient with hearing impairment.

This article is a review of the central auditory pathways from an anatomic and clinical perspective. An approach to the assessment of patients with hearing impairment of central origin is provided. The review of the patient’s history, physical examination, and laboratory assesment are dealt with in detail.
TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THING: Overuse Injuries of the Knee

Overuse injuries constitute a distinct group of abnormalities arising from excessive stress, repeated microtrauma, inadequate injury repair, or pathologic motion of the knee. Chronic pain resulting from overuse injuries may progress to the point that the patient can no longer perform the inciting activity. MR image appearances of the more common overuse syndromes involving the soft tissues surrounding the knee are presented, pertinent anatomic features are reviewed, and the role of MR imaging in patient management in these disorders is discussed.
Immersed Tube Tunnels

Immersed tube tunnels are composed of prefabricated sections placed in trenches that have been dredged in river or sea bottoms. The sections are usually constructed at some distance from the tunnel location and made watertight with temporary bulkheads. They are then floated into position over the trench, lowered into place, and joined together underwater. The temporary bulkheads are removed, and the trench is backfilled with earth to protect the tubes. Immersed tubeshave been widely used for highway and rail crossings of soft-bottomed, shallow estuaries and tidal rivers or canals in which trenches may be excavated with floating equipment.
Core Biopsy of Chest Wall Lesion

This section provides a comprehensive procedural report for core biopsy of lung lesion procedure with up-to-date explanatory notes, synopsis of the indications and contraindications, and potential complications in an organized and practical format.
IGPR-1 Is Required for Endothelial Cell-Cell Adhesion and Barrier Function.

Abstract Endothelial cell (EC) barrier function plays a prevalent regulatory mechanism for the integrity and homeostasis of blood vessels and modulates angiogenesis and immune responses. Cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) play a central role in the barrier function of ECs. Although Ig-containing and proline-rich receptor-1(IGPR-1) was recently identified as a novel CAM expressed in ECs, the molecular mechanisms underlying the function of IGPR-1 in ECs remain uncharacterized. In this report, we investigated the role of IGPR-1 in EC barrier function and the molecular mechanism of its activation in ECs. We demonstrate that IGPR-1 is localized to endothelial adherens junctions and, through trans-homophilic dimerization, regulates endothelial cell–cell adhesion and barrier function. Trans-homophilic dimerization of IGPR-1 stimulates the phosphorylation of serine 220 (Ser220), which is required for IGPR-1 to regulate endothelial barrier function and angiogenesis. Moreover, IGPR-1 chimera, which mimics the trans-homophilic dimerization of IGPR-1, induced a sustained phosphorylation of Ser220 upon stimulation with a ligand. Coordinated dimerization of IGPR-1 and its homophilic interaction modulates its adhesive function and Ser220 phosphorylation. This adhesive function of IGPR-1 contributes to the barrier function of ECs.