cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Are Inflation Rates Really Nonstationary? New Evidence from Non-linear STAR Framework and African Data

This study provides evidence on whether the inflation rate is nonstationary or stationary using quarterly inflation rate data from thirty-four African countries. As Johansen [Journal of Policy Modeling 14 (1992) 313-334] wrote, "Some time series such as the log of prices (P), have the property that even the inflation rate ?P is nonstationary, whereas the second difference ?2P is stationarity." Results from linear and nonlinear analyses provide overwhelming evidence in support of the nonstationarityof the inflation rate in Africa. The nonlinear KSS test validates thenonstationarity of inflation in more countries than the linear tests. Results from three forecasting tests indicate constancy of our models and the associated evidence of nonstationarity.
Atypical pseudocysts of the pancreas: an ultrasonographic evaluation.

Ultrasonograms of most pseudocysts have a typical appearance — sharply defined, smooth wall, ovoid, located in the region of the pancreas. However, in reviewing the sonographic appearance of pseudocysts, other ultrasonographic characteristics may occasionally be encountered. Eleven patients with atypical pseudocysts are presented. The demonstration of multiple septations, multiple echoes within a sonolucent mass, and even failure to enhance posteriorly should not exclude the diagnosis of pancreatic pseudocyst in the proper clinical setting. The value of serial scans is also stressed. In this series, it was possible to suggest the diagnosis of infection, hemorrhage, and rupture of pseudocysts by demonstrating cysts with more typical appearances on prior examinations.
Minimum uncertainty wavelets in non-relativistic super-symmetric quantum mechanics

We consider the connection to the harmonic oscillator, super-symmetric quantum mechanics (SUSY-QM) and coherent states of the recently derived constrained Heisenberg “minimum uncertainty” (μ-) wavelets [Phys Rev Lett 85:5263 (2000); Phys Rev A65: 052106-1 (2002); J Phys Chem A107:7318 (2003)]. We analyze several new types of raising and lowering operators,which also can be viewed as arising from a (non-unitary) similarity transformation of the Harmonic Oscillator Hamiltonian and ladder operators. We show that these new ladder operators lead to a new SUSY formalism for harmonic oscillation, so that the μ-wavelets naturally manifest SUSY properties. Using these new ladder operators, we construct coherent and supercoherent states for the oscillator. In the discussion, we consider possible implications of similarity transformations for quantum mechanics. In an appendix we consider the classical limit of the μ-wavelet oscillator.
Kinematic Analysis of a Swash-Plate Controlled Variable Displacement Axial-Piston Pump With a Conical Barrel Assembly

Variable displacement, swash-plate controlled, axial-piston pumps are widely used in applications that require high pressure and variable flow rates. The pump consists of a rotating barrel assembly that houses several pistons in a circular array. A swash-plate is used to control the displacement of the pistons to adjust the output flow of hydraulic fluid. As the barrel rotates, the pistons slide along the angled swash-plate and draw oil from the supply and then discharge oil into the high pressure circuit. This results in an almost constant output flow rate. This paper analyzes the kinematics of a pump based on its geometry dependent characteristics. The analysis assumes an idealized case in which there is no oil leakage and the fluid is considered to be incompressible. It is revealed through the analysis that the piston displacement and the pump output flow are slightly increased by using a conical barrel. Instantaneous and mean flow rate equations are used to describe the output flow characteristics and flow ripple effect. The output flow rate ripple profile is found to be a function of both swash-plate angle and the conical barrel angle. A term defined as the flow rate uniformity coefficient is used to better quantify the flow ripple phenomenon. A frequency analysis is performed on the output flow rate and an additional order is found to be present when using a conical barrel pump versus one with a cylindrical barrel when the pumps have an odd number of pistons. Conical barrel piston pumps are found to have a slight increase in piston displacement, velocity, and acceleration relative to the rotating barrel frame of reference over a pump with a cylindrical barrel. This translates into an increase in the output flow rate for a conical piston pump under the same operating conditions. The conical barrel is also found to have a reduction in the rotational inertia allowing for faster angular acceleration. The presence of an extra order from a frequency analysis for a conical pump with an odd number of pistons has the potential to cause unwanted noise or vibration to the structure or components attached to the pump.
A syringe-pump food-paste dispenser

A description is provided of a syringe-pump food-paste dispenser in which a veterinary dosing syringe is used to deliver meat paste continuously or in discrete amounts with little noise.
Congruent population structure inferred from dispersal behaviour and intensive genetic surveys of the threatened Florida scrub‐jay (Aphelocoma cœrulescens)

The delimitation of populations, defined as groups of individuals linked by gene flow, is possible by the analysis of genetic markers and also by spatial models based on dispersal probabilities across a landscape. We combined these two complimentary methods to define the spatial pattern of genetic structure among remaining populations of the threatened Florida scrub-jay, a species for which dispersal ability is unusually well-characterized. The range-wide population was intensively censused in the 1990s, and a metapopulation model defined population boundaries based on predicted dispersal-mediated demographic connectivity. We subjected genotypes from more than 1000 individual jays screened at 20 microsatellite loci to two Bayesian clustering methods. We describe a consensus method for identifying common features across many replicated clustering runs. Ten genetically differentiated groups exist across the present-day range of the Florida scrub-jay. These groups are largely consistent with the dispersal-defined metapopulations, which assume very limited dispersal ability. Some genetic groups comprise more than one metapopulation, likely because these genetically similar metapopulations were sundered only recently by habitat alteration. The combined reconstructions of population structure based on genetics and dispersal-mediated demographic connectivity provide a robust depiction of the current genetic and demographic organization of this species, reflecting past and present levels of dispersal among occupied habitat patches. The differentiation of populations into 10 genetic groups adds urgency to management efforts aimed at preserving what remains of genetic variation in this dwindling species, by maintaining viable populations of all genetically differentiated and geographically isolated populations.
A Proper Orthogonal Decomposition Based System-Level Thermal Modeling Methodology for Shipboard Power Electronics Cabinets

A system-level thermal modeling methodology for shipboard power-electronics cabinets is presented and demonstrated for a PCM-1 cabinet, a complex air-to-water-cooled cabinet design of interest to naval applications. The cabinet is completely sealed and the heat dissipation in the power electronics bays is removed from the cabinet by re-circulating the hot air through an air-to-water-cooled packaged heat exchanger that is served by an external fresh water loop. A detailed unit-wise analytical model is developed for the packaged heat exchanger used in the cabinet. Under the prescribed design parameters, the PCM-1 cabinet operating-point air circulation rate was established to be 0.434 m3/s (920 CFM). A compact model is developed for the air convection within the cabinet using 3-D Computational Fluid Dynamics/Heat Transfer (CFD/HT) simulations in conjunction with Proper Orthogonal Decomposition (POD)-based reduced order modeling techniques. The compact model runs about 350 times faster with a mean prediction...
MACS: A Highly Customizable Low-Latency Communication Architecture

Networks-on-chips (NoCs) are an increasingly popular communication infrastructure in single chip VLSI design for enhancing parallelism and system scalability. Processing elements (PEs) connect to a communication topology via NoC switches, which are responsible for runtime establishment and management of inter-PE communication channels. Since NoC switch design directly affects overall system performance and exploited communication parallelism, much previous work focused on efficient NoC switch design. In this paper, we present MACS—a highly parametric NoC switch architecture that provides reduced data transfer latency, increased designer flexibility, and scalability as compared to previous architectures by combining and enhancing several NoC design strategies. MACS enhances inter-PE communication using a circuit switching technique with minimal adaptive routing and a simple and fair path resolution algorithm to maximize bandwidth utilization. We evaluate area and performance of an FPGA implementation of MACS, and, show that compared to previous work, MACS offers a 2x to 7x decrease in average channel setup latency, a 1.7x to 2x reduction in area requirements, similar average packet latency, up to a 6x increase in the network saturation point, and up to a 1.4x increase in bandwidth utilization. Additionally, we illustrate MACS’s low average channel setup latency using six network traffic patterns and eight parallel JPEG decompression core trace simulations.
Synthetic-aperture technique for high-resolution composite imaging of the inside walls of tubular specimens

High-resolution survey of the inside walls of tubular specimens is a unique application of synthetic-aperture composite imaging. This article describes the data acquisition process, 3D motion estimation and compensation, image registration, and superposition for the formation of high-resolution composite images from conventional video sequences. Experiment results from the survey of an oil well are used to demonstrate the capability of the technique. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Imaging Syst Technol 14, 167–169, 2004; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ima.20020
Neocentromeres Form Efficiently at Multiple Possible Loci in Candida albicans

Centromeres are critically important for chromosome stability and integrity. Most eukaryotes have regional centromeres that include long tracts of repetitive DNA packaged into pericentric heterochromatin. Neocentromeres, new sites of functional kinetochore assembly, can form at ectopic loci because no DNA sequence is strictly required for assembly of a functional kinetochore. In humans, neocentromeres often arise in cells with gross chromosome rearrangements that rescue an acentric chromosome. Here, we studied the properties of centromeres in Candida albicans, the most prevalent fungal pathogen of humans, which has small regional centromeres that lack pericentric heterochromatin. We functionally delimited centromere DNA on Chromosome 5 (CEN5) and then replaced the entire region with the counter-selectable URA3 gene or other marker genes. All of the resulting cen5Δ::URA3 transformants stably retained both copies of Chr5, indicating that a functional neocentromere had assembled efficiently on the homolog lacking CEN5 DNA. Strains selected to maintain only the cen5Δ::URA3 homolog and no wild-type Chr5 homolog also grew well, indicating that neocentromere function is independent of the presence of any wild-type CEN5 DNA. Two classes of neocentromere (neoCEN) strains were distinguishable: “proximal neoCEN” and “distal neoCEN” strains. Neocentromeres in the distal neoCEN strains formed at loci about 200–450 kb from cen5Δ::URA3 on either chromosome arm, as detected by massively parallel sequencing of DNA isolated by CENP-ACse4p chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP). In the proximal neoCEN strains, the neocentromeres formed directly adjacent to cen5Δ::URA3 and moved onto the URA3 DNA, resulting in silencing of its expression. Functional neocentromeres form efficiently at several possible loci that share properties of low gene density and flanking repeated DNA sequences. Subsequently, neocentromeres can move locally, which can be detected by silencing of an adjacent URA3 gene, or can relocate to entirely different regions of the chromosome. The ability to select for neocentromere formation and movement in C. albicans permits mechanistic analysis of the assembly and maintenance of a regional centromere.
Effect of Different Wheat Classes and Their Flour Milling Streams on Textural Properties of Flour Tortillas

ABSTRACT Wheat flour tortillas were made from flour streams of three wheat cultivars: Jagger hard red winter wheat, 4AT-9900 hard white winter wheat, and Ernie soft red winter wheat. Wheat samples were milled on a Miag experimental mill. Twelve flour streams and one straight-grade flour were obtained. Tortillas were made from each flour stream and the straightgrade flour by the hot-press method. Tortilla stretchability and foldability were evaluated by a texture analyzer and six panelists, respectively. Flour protein and water absorption affected tortilla texture. The foldability evaluated by panelists was positively correlated with flour protein content, farinograph water absorption, and damaged starch (P < 0.05). The 2BK and 3BK streams of hard wheat produced tortillas with strong stretchability and good foldability. Middling streams of hard wheat yielded tortillas with lighter color and less stretchability. Under the conditions tested in this study, soft wheat flours were not good for producing flour t...
Dendritic cells: the commanders-in-chief of mucosal immune defenses.

Purpose of review Intestinal dendritic cells have emerged as key regulators of immunity to pathogens, oral tolerance and intestinal inflammation. Studies have begun to elucidate the regulatory mechanisms responsible for defining region- and compartment-specific phenotypes and functions of dendritic cells in mucosal tissues. Recent findings Specific subsets of dendritic cells appear to be associated with the various routes for antigen acquisition in the intestine. The constant sampling of intestinal antigenic content ensures establishment of tolerance to commensal bacteria and food antigens. Tolerance development to oral antigens is restricted to the mucosal immune system. Other advances have provided insight into the molecular basis of microbial recognition and innate immune responses by intestinal dendritic cells. Differences in the involvement of dendritic cells have begun to emerge in Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis and link gene regulation in dendritic cells to therapeutic responses. Summary A major focus of mucosal immunology will be to understand how diverse dendritic cell subsets cooperate in regulating homeostasis and host defense in the different intestinal immune compartments. This will be pivotal to understanding how the mucosal immune system makes the distinction between commensal microbiota, pathogens and self antigens.
Detection of monodisperse aggregates of a recombinant amelogenin by dynamic light scattering.

Recombinant murine amelogenins M179 and M166 were expressed in Escherichia coli and purified. The aggregation properties of these amelogenins have been investigated in aqueous solutions as well as acetonitrile-containing solutions using dynamic light scattering. Dynamic light scattering provides direct measurement of the translational diffusion coefficient and hydrodynamic radius, and of an estimate of the molecular weight. Polydispersity and statistical parameters of how to interpret the analysis are also provided. Amelogenin aggregation was examined in solutions of a range of pH, ionic strengths, and protein concentrations. It was shown that at pH 7.8–8 and ionic strength of 0.02–0.05M the M179 molecules form monodispersed aggregates with hydrodynamic radii ranging from 15 to 19 nm. Analysis of hydrodynamic radii and size distribution of M179 aggregates in acetonitrile-containing solvents compared to that in aqueous solutions indicated a primary role for hydrophobic interactions in the association process of amelogenin molecules to form aggregates. Comparison between the aggregates formed by M179 and M166, which lacks the hydrophilic carboxy-terminal 13 residue sequence of M179, suggested that the self-assembly of amelogenin molecules to form stable and monodisperse aggregates requires the presence of the hydrophilic carboxy-terminal sequence of M179. © 1994 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
End effects in scarf joints

Scarf joints with small scarf angles are especially sensitive to stiffness mismatch between adherends and to adherend tip bluntness. Pre-assembly breakage of an adherend tip where it is only a few microns thick can cause significant reduction in joint strength. Mathematically, the reason for such sensitivity is that the solutions to the governing differential equation develop boundary layer character when the scarf angles are small. The boundary layers are regions with large adhesive stresses. Experimental strength data for laminated composite adherends agree with the results of this analysis.
Fabrication of a Low Density Carbon Fiber Foam and Its Characterization as a Strain Gauge

Samples of carbon nano-fiber foam (CFF), essentially a 3D solid mat of intertwined nanofibers of pure carbon, were grown using the Constrained Formation of Fibrous Nanostructures (CoFFiN) process in a steel mold at 550 °C from a palladium particle catalysts exposed to fuel rich mixtures of ethylene and oxygen. The resulting material was studied using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDX), Surface area analysis (BET), and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). Transient and dynamic mechanical tests clearly demonstrated that the material is viscoelastic. Concomitant mechanical and electrical testing of samples revealed the material to have electrical properties appropriate for application as the sensing element of a strain gauge. The sample resistance versus strain values stabilize after a few compression cycles to show a perfectly linear relationship. Study of microstructure, mechanical and electrical properties of the low density samples confirm the uniqueness of the material: It is formed entirely of independent fibers of diverse diameters that interlock forming a tridimensional body that can be grown into different shapes and sizes at moderate temperatures. It regains its shape after loads are removed, is light weight, presents viscoelastic behavior, thermal stability up to 550 °C, hydrophobicity, and is electrically conductive.
Classification of congenital and early onset retinitis pigmentosa.

• We retrospectively studied 36 patients with congenital (Leber's amaurosis) and early onset retinitis pigmentosa (RP) to develop a new schematic classification system based on the age at onset of symptoms, severity of visual loss, and associated nonocular abnormalities. Our four groups were designated as complicated and uncomplicated Leber's congenital amaurosis and juvenile and early onset RP. Criteria for patient selection included an extinguished or barely recordable electroretinogram, well-documented age of onset, and comprehensive ocular and medical examinations before the age of 10 years. Among the congenitally blind, the distinguishing features were the degree of hyperopia and the presence or absence of neurologic abnormalities. Among patients with infantile or juvenile onset of retinal degeneration, the distinguishing features were the severity of visual loss and the age at onset of symptoms. The presence of nystagmus and hyperopia and the severity of central visual loss differentiated congenital from early onset RP.
Reliability and Perceived Pedagogical Utility of a Weighted Music Performance Assessment Rubric

The purpose of this study was to investigate the reliability and perceived pedagogical utility of a multidimensional weighted performance assessment rubric used in Kansas state high school large-group festivals. Data were adjudicator rubrics (N = 2,016) and adjudicator and director questionnaires (N = 515). Rubric internal consistency was moderately high (.88). Dimension reliability ranged from moderately low (W = .47) to moderate (W = .77). Total score reliability was moderately high (W = .80) and rating reliability was moderate (W = .72). Findings suggested that reliability on the whole was within the range of previously researched music performance assessment tools. Questionnaire results suggested that the rubric provided a better instrument for justifying ratings and more detailed descriptions of what constituted acceptable performances than previously researched nonrubric forms; hence, adjudicators and directors perceived the rubric as possessing improved pedagogical utility.
The Chebyshev expansion based passive model for distributed interconnect networks

A new Chebyshev expansion based model for distributed interconnect networks is presented in this paper. Unlike the moment methods, this new model is optimal and it does not require the knowledge of expansion points. An automatic order selection scheme is also included in the new model. By using the integrated congruence transform, we guarantee the passivity of the new model for distributed interconnect networks. Because of the orthogonality of Chebyshev polynomials, the Modified Gram-Schmidt algorithm can be simplified. In the experimental examples, the new model is found to be accurate and efficient.
Graft copolymerization of acrylic acid onto polystyrene using the solid phase grafting technique

Graft copolymerization of acrylic acid (AAc) onto polystyrene (PS) by the solid phase graft copolymerization technique was studied. Benzoyl peroxide (BPO) was used as the free radical initiator. Acrylic acid was introduced into the reactor as an aqueous solution. Optimum reaction conditions to obtain maximum grafting were evaluated. The variables studied were temperature, initiator concentration, monomer concentration, acrylic acid-to-water ratio, and reaction time. The graft copolymer was characterized by infrared (IR) spectroscopy, and the graft level was quantified by the IR absorbance ratio technique and titration. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 70: 1001–1007, 1998
A PRACTICAL PLATFORM FOR CREW EMULATION

The Parallel Random Access Machine or PRAM model, has been a much employed parallel algorithm development tool for a number of years. As such, many important problems have been solved on this model. Accordingly, considerable attention has been given to the process of simulating PRAM models on more realistic architectures. The purpose of this paper is to present an efficient simulation of the Concurrent Read Exclusive Write PRAM model by the crossbar connected machine (CCM). In addition to simulation, it is proven that all lower bounds for the CREW PRAM directly apply to the CCM. This is the first presentation of algorithmic lower bounds for a crossbar based model. The buses of the network are assumed to have a broadcast delay of δ(n). Recent implementations of the crossbar network in CMOS VLSI technology support the viability of the CCM model. It is the communication flexibility of the crossbar network which supports the PRAM simulations in a very straightforward manner without the complex interconnection systems or high overhead algorithms of many prior simulations.
Using a Repeated Reading Program to Improve Generalization of Oral Reading Fluency

Three second-grade students at-risk for reading failure participated in an adult-directed repeated reading program that integrated isolated word reading practice, unison reading, error correction, and performance cueing and feedback procedures. During each intervention session, the participants practiced five difficult words key to a first-grade independent level passage, engaged in unison reading with the adult trainer, and repeatedly read the passage four or five times with error correction. The oral reading rate on second-grade, transfer passages (i.e., new passages that students have not practiced before) served as the primary dependent variable. Using a multiple probe across participants design, we showed that the repeated reading program improved all participants’ oral reading rates on the grade level transfer passages. Implications of the study are discussed.
Prohibiting juvenile access to tobacco: Violation rates, cigarette sales, and youth smoking

Abstract Background Scholars who examine the efficacy of juvenile tobacco sales restrictions, especially the 1992 "Synar Amendment" that led all of fifty U.S. states to enact prohibitions on tobacco sales to minors, are notably divided as to impact on youth smoking. Some researchers claim that such policies have failed and ought to be abandoned (Craig & Boris, 2007; Etter, 2006; Glantz, 2002), while others insist that enforcement has indeed led to reduced tobacco use (DiFranza, 2011b; SAMHSA, 2011). The present study is the first to combine data on Synar violation rates from all states and years available since the amendment's implementation, assessing the connection to national rates of cigarette sales and youth smoking behavior. Methods Using national data from the United States Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, the Tobacco Institute, and the Centers for Disease Control's Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System across all U.S. states between 1996 and 2007, we employ hierarchical linear modeling to examine the connection between retailer Synar violations and youth smoking. Results Controlling for state-level demographic variables, results indicate that retailer violation rates are significantly associated with greater youth smoking prevalence, as well as higher overall cigarette sales. Conclusion While critiques of Synar policies are substantive and should be addressed, laws prohibiting the sale of tobacco to juveniles appear to have had some degree of success.
Seismic reflection imaging of an oceanic detachment fault: Atlantis megamullion (Mid-Atlantic Ridge, 30°10′N)

Abstract We present multichannel seismic reflection data collected over the Atlantis megamullion, at the eastern ridge–transform intersection of Atlantis fracture zone on the northern Mid-Atlantic Ridge, and over its conjugate crust. These data image for the first time the internal structure of a young, well-developed megamullion dome formed by tectonic extension across a long-lived oceanic detachment fault. The exposed, corrugated detachment-fault surface exhibits a sharp, coherent reflection that contrasts with less organized reflectivity of surrounding basaltic seafloor. At the termination of the megamullion the fault is imaged ∼13 km along-strike beneath a volcanic hanging-wall block at a sub-seafloor depth of 0.2–0.5 s two-way travel time, reaching north as far as 30°19′N. The eastward dipping of the fault beneath the hanging-wall block is estimated to be ∼6–14°. The corrugated fault surface is underlain by a continuous, strong, and relatively smooth reflection ( D ) at 0.2–0.25 s sub-bottom below the central axis of the dome. This reflection deepens up to 0.6 s sub-bottom beneath the western slope and it appears to intersect the seafloor on the eastern slope. We suggest that Atlantis massif formed by sequential slip on two different detachment faults that merged at depth, with breakaways as little as ∼2 km apart. The initial detachment is represented by reflection D , and the second corresponds to the presently exposed fault surface. In this interpretation, much of the sliver between the faults is interpreted to be strongly serpentinized peridotite with reduced seismic velocity; it lies in contact with less altered, higher-velocity mantle below the first detachment, resulting in the strong, smooth character of reflection D . Mantle rocks exposed in the megamullion indicate that the feature formed during a period of extreme tectonic extension and probably limited magmatism. In conjugate crust corresponding to termination of the megamullion, observed sub-bottom reflections are interpreted as base of seismic layer 2A. This layer is as thick as or thicker (∼570–900 m) than layer 2A in normal Atlantic crust, and it suggests that relatively normal crustal accretion occurred by the time the megamullion stopped forming.
A comparison of eelgrass, sea lettuce macroalgae, and marsh creeks as habitats for epibenthic fishes and decapods

Densities of epibenthic fishes and decapod crustaceans (excluding xanthids and pagurids) were quantified with daytime throw trap sampling in shallow water habitats of New Jersey estuaries. We compared eelgrass (Zostera marina), sea lettuce macroalgae (Ulva lactuca), unvegetated sand/mud substrates adjacent to these vegetation types, and saltmarsh creeks. The highest total density of fishes occurred in marsh creeks, due primarily to high abundances of Menidia menidia. The highest total decapod density was also in a marsh creek, but only slightly surpassed the density in Zostera. Results of apriori comparisons tests for individual species demonstrated that vegetation (either Zostera or Ulva) was superior in quality (based on fish and decapod densities) to adjacent unvegetated substrates. Sites with Zostera as the dominant vegetation had higher densities of most fish species than sites with Ulva as the dominant vegetation, but only one decapod, Hippolyte pleuracanthus, was more abundant at eelgrass sites. Ulva lactuca, therefore, was an important habitat in areas lacking Zostera marina; for the decapods the two vegetation types were comparable in habitat quality, but for fishes Ulva did not provide an equivalent substitute for Zostera. Marsh creeks supported very high densities, but only for a few species that were also common in other habitats. Comparison of recruitment patterns suggested many species do not begin exploiting these estuarine habitats until relatively late in the summer, perhaps as result of peak spawning in mid-summer.
Cholangioscopy for Special Applications: Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis, Liver Transplant, and Selective Duct Access

Cholangioscopy is gaining renewed interest and gradually expanded use as a result of recent technical improvements in endoscopes and accessories, coupled with shortcomings in the accuracy of currently available techniques for biliary sampling and diagnosis. Challenging clinical dilemmas that may benefit from its application include early diagnosis of cholangiocarcinoma in the setting of primary sclerosing cholangitis, early identification of biliary infection or ischemia following orthotopic liver transplantation, and selective duct access with wires and other devices during therapeutic endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. Preliminary data suggest that cholangioscopy has significant utility in assessment and management of primary sclerosing cholangitis. Applications in post-transplant patients and for selective duct access remain minimally defined and used.
EEG recurrence markers and sleep quality

article i nfo Objectives: To show that EEG markers formed using the variable percent recurrence reliably quantified two re- lated aspects of sleep quality, sleep depth and sleep fragmentation. As hypotheses, the depth marker would increase and the fragmentation marker decrease in patients where improved sleep quality occurred when assessed by polysomnography. Methods: The patients (N = 20) had been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea during diagnostic polysomnography (dPSG), and had exhibited increased REM sleep (clinical indication of improved sleep quality) during subsequent polysomnography to titrate the pressure of a treatment device (cPSG). Percent recurrence was computed second-by-second from the EEG; sleep-depth and sleep-stability markers were obtained algorithmically. By assumption, the markers contained temporal information regarding the extent of deterministic (non-random) brain activity. Marker means were compared between the dPSG and the cPSG for NREM and REM sleep. Results: Sleep depth was greater and sleep fragmentation was less during cPSG, as hypothesized (P b 0.05). The effects occurred during NREM and REM sleep, but were greater during NREM sleep (P b 0.05). At least one of the predicted changes occurred in 95% of the patients. Conclusions: The factors generally regarded as responsible for subjective sleep quality were objectively quan- tified on the basis of dynamical changes in the EEG.
False positive GI bleed on Tc-99m RBC scintigraphy due to ileal varices

Tc-99m labeled RBC scintigraphy is commonly employed in the evaluation of acute gastrointestinal bleeding. On Tc-99m RBC studies gastrointestinal bleeding is seen as an initial focus of increased radiotracer activity that on subsequent images increases in intensity and changes position in a pattern that conforms to segments of bowel. We report a case of a patient with multiple episodes of hematochezia that presented with lower gastrointestinal hemorrhage. A Tc-99m labeled RBC scan was performed and the findings suggested a GI bleed. However, subsequent angiography revealed prominent ileal varices simulating an acute bleed. Although most varices fill promptly and should not be misinterpreted as a focus of hemorrhage, slow filling varices can simulate an acute bleed and lead to a false positive interpretation.
Sraffa's Interpretation of Marx's Treatment of Fixed Capital

It is well known that Sraffa analyzed fixed capital as a ‘joint product’ along with regular products, such that in each period a given machine (together with other material and labor inputs) produces a regular product plus a one-period-older machine of the same type. What is perhaps less well known is that Sraffa attributed this same method of dealing with fixed capital to Marx, and to Torrens, Malthus, and Ricardo. This paper examines the textual evidence presented by Sraffa to support his interpretation of Marx's treatment of fixed capital, and also examines more comprehensive textual evidence from the three volumes of Capital not considered by Sraffa. It is argued that Marx did not treat fixed capital as a joint product in his theory of prices, but instead consistently assumed a ‘straight-line’ method of depreciation, according to which a constant fraction of the total value of the fixed capital is transferred to the price of the product in each period, and the remaining value of the fixed capital is n...
The Indochinese Psychiatry Clinic: trauma and refugee mental health treatment in the 1990s.

The Indochinese Psychiatry Clinic (IPC), located in Boston, was founded in 1981 to meet the special needs of traumatized Cambodian, Vietnamese, and Laotian refugees resettling in the Boston area. Over the past 16 years, IPC has pioneered the field of refugee mental health and the treatment of the psychological and social sequelae of mass violence and torture. IPC developed the bicultural model of psychiatric treatment of refugees suffering from trauma-related mental disorders, which utilizes a multidisciplinary, bicultural team approach that emphasizes understanding the patient's trauma history within the appropriate cultural, social, and political context. This article summarizes IPC's background, patient profile, clinical approach, service elements, and funding structure. Recent immigration and welfare reform legislation will have a harsh impact on the population of refugees who are disabled due to the psychosocial consequences of their traumatic experiences. This legislation and the restrictions on mental health care imposed by public managed care will also affect the providers of their mental health care. Language: en
The Friendship of Calvin and Melanchthon

When God has a great work to do in his kingdom on earth he trains and associates congenial agents of different .gifts, but of one spirit and aim, to carry out his purposes. They supplement and encourage one another and accomplish much more in unison than they could in isolation. Moses and Aaron, David and Jonathan, in the history of Israel; Paul and Barnabas, Peter and Mark, in apostolic times; Pamphilius and Eusebius, Basil and Gregory Nazianzen, among the fathers; Luther and Melanchthon, Zwingli, Occolampadius and Bullinger, Calvin, Farel, Viret, and Beza, Cranmer, Latimer and Ridley, among the Reformers; the two Wesleys and Whitefield in the Methodist revival; Pusey, Newman and Keble in the Anglo-Catholic movement of our days, will readily occur to the memory as illustrious examples of co-operative friendship for the advancement of God's kingdom.
Identification of molecular markers linked to quantitative trait loci for soybean resistance to corn earworm

One hundred and thirty nine restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLPs) were used to construct a soybean (Glycine max L. Merr.) genetic linkage map and to identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with resistance to corn earworm (Helicoverpa zea Boddie) in a population of 103 F2-derived lines from a cross of ‘Cobb’ (susceptible) and PI229358 (resistant). The genetic linkage map consisted of 128 markers which converged onto 30 linkage groups covering approximately 1325 cM. There were 11 unlinked markers. The F2-derived lines and the two parents were grown in the field under a plastic mesh cage near Athens, Ga., in 1995. The plants were artificially infested with corn earworm and evaluated for the amount of defoliation. Using interval-mapping analysis for linked markers and single-factor analysis of variance (ANOVA), markers were tested for an association with resistance. One major and two minor QTLs for resistance were identified in this population. The PI229358 allele contributed insect resistance at all three QTLs. The major QTL is linked to the RFLP marker A584 on linkage group (LG) ‘M’ of the USDA/Iowa State University public soybean genetic map. It accounts for 37% of the total variation for resistance in this cross. The minor QTLs are linked to the RFLP markers R249 (LG ‘H’) and Bng047 (LG ‘D1’). These markers explain 16% and 10% of variation, respectively. The heritability (h2) for resistance was estimated as 64% in this population.
Permanent magnets based on materials with high crystal anisotropy

The properties of Alnicos and elongated single-domain fine-particle materials, both interpreted as due to shape anisotropy of fine particles, are still far short of those predicted by simple theory. The hard ferrites, with properties due to magnetocrystalline anisotropy, come much closer, but are restricted by their low magnetization. The search for a combination of high magnetization and high magnetocrystalline anisotropy has led to the investigation of a variety of intermetallic compounds. Some of them, particularly the cobalt-rare earths, appear quite promising. Mechanical grinding often has an adverse effect on the magnetic properties of crystal anisotropy materials. Chemical stability is also often a problem. Crystal anisotropy materials in general have high values of intrinsic coercive force. This makes them especially suitable for applications involving widely varying dynamic conditions. Their proper evaluation may be best done using criteria other than the usual maximum energy product.
The isotopic composition of soil and soil-respired CO2

Abstract The isotopic composition of soil CO 2 has been investigated for the past three decades by earth scientists in a variety of disciplines. Carbon dioxide is produced in soil through biological processes (organic matter decomposition and root respiration) and is transported to the overlying atmosphere via molecular diffusion. Research has focused on both the isotopic composition of respired CO 2 (CO 2 that diffuses across the soil–atmosphere interface) and soil CO 2 (CO 2 that exists at any given soil depth). It is recognized that most soils are at quasi-steady state, and that the C isotopic composition of respired CO 2 is the same as that of the biological sources in the soil. Research on the isotopic composition of soil CO 2 has successfully used steady-state production/diffusion models to explain the common observation that the isotopic composition of soil CO 2 generally shows a gradual change from atmospheric isotopic values at the soil surface to values closer to biological sources with increasing depth. The complexity of the production/diffusion models needed to describe soil CO 2 is simplest with stable C isotopes, and increases in complexity and uncertainty with radiocarbon and O isotopes. For radiocarbon and O isotopes this is due to the fact that there can be a variety of isotopic sources within a given soil. Furthermore, for O isotopes, equilibration processes can alter the composition of the CO 2 as it diffuses through the soil. While much remains to be learned about the natural variations in the isotopic composition of soil and respired CO 2 , interest in this topic will likely increase due to the magnitude of soil respiration on a global scale, and its role in the processes controlling the isotopic composition of atmospheric CO 2 .
Confidence interval estimation using polynomial chaos theory

This paper proposes an analytical method to estimate the confidence interval of a measurement using polynomial chaos theory (PCT). In previous work, the authors proposed an approach based on polynomial chaos theory (PCT) to evaluate the worst-case in an indirect measurement process, which in some cases can be considered as 100% confidence interval estimate. In many practical cases though, it is important to be able to determine the confidence intervals. The confidence interval computed as the integral the probability density function (PDF), the cumulative distribution function (CDF), requires the availability of the PDF. An analytical approach to calculate of the PDF associated to a PCT polynomial has been previously proposed in literature. This analytical approach based on a regularized estimation of the joint PDF, yields a well-defined and well shaped PDF. The method proposed in this paper is based on the analytical reconstruction of PDF from the polynomial structure of the PCT expansion. Once the PDF is obtained, the integral can be calculated and an estimation of the confidence interval can be derived. This methodology is demonstrated using an indirect loop impedance measurement as an example.
Addition of Caspofungin to Fluconazole Does Not Improve Outcome in Murine Candidiasis

Caspofungin is a potent antifungal inhibiting glucan synthesis in Candida species. However, caspofungin is not 100% curative in candidiasis. Therefore, we evaluated combinations of fluconazole with caspofungin for murine candidemia. We could not show any benefit of combined therapy over individual antifungal drugs.
Highly Selective Condensation of Biomass‐Derived Methyl Ketones as a Source of Aviation Fuel

Aviation fuel (i.e., jet fuel) requires a mixture of C9 -C16 hydrocarbons having both a high energy density and a low freezing point. While jet fuel is currently produced from petroleum, increasing concern with the release of CO2 into the atmosphere from the combustion of petroleum-based fuels has led to policy changes mandating the inclusion of biomass-based fuels into the fuel pool. Here we report a novel way to produce a mixture of branched cyclohexane derivatives in very high yield (>94 %) that match or exceed many required properties of jet fuel. As starting materials, we use a mixture of n-alkyl methyl ketones and their derivatives obtained from biomass. These synthons are condensed into trimers via base-catalyzed aldol condensation and Michael addition. Hydrodeoxygenation of these products yields mixtures of C12 -C21 branched, cyclic alkanes. Using models for predicting the carbon number distribution obtained from a mixture of n-alkyl methyl ketones and for predicting the boiling point distribution of the final mixture of cyclic alkanes, we show that it is possible to define the mixture of synthons that will closely reproduce the distillation curve of traditional jet fuel.
Water economy of the stark's lark and grey-backed finch-lark from the Namib Desert of South West Africa☆

Abstract 1. 1. Water budgets of two species of larks (Aves, Alaudidae), Spizocorys starki and Eremopterix verticalis, were determined from average measurements of pulmocutaneous evaporation rate, metabolic rate, excretory water loss and food consumption, at moderate ambient temperatures and humidities. 2. 2. When air-dried millet seed was their only source of water, the bird's mean daily water loss exceeded water gain by about 0·6 g/bird; but water loss could be balanced against water gain by calculating the budgets with values of water loss from the lower end of the observed ranges of values. 3. 3. Many individuals could survive indefinitely without drinking when consuming only millet seed. 4. 4. The birds could not utilize NaCl solutions more concentrated than 0·30 M as drinking water. 5. 5. The very low rates of evaporative and excretory water loss of these two species are adaptive to a dry environment.
The Ghosts of Counseling Psychology: Is Counseling Research Really Dead?

Scheel et al. offer an interesting analysis on the publication rate of counseling-related research articles in counseling psychology’s two major journals. In this reaction to their work, the author considers various aspects of their results and contemplates possible explanations for the decline of counseling-related publications.
Current reversible contraceptive methods: a global perspective

Since the 1960's, there have been important gains in the efforts to make the benefits of family planning accessible to people around the world. However, prevalence of contraceptive use is still low in some areas, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. Making contraceptives accessible through good quality services should be a goal for reproductive health programs. In the absence of an ideal method of contraception which would suit every individual, there is a variety of contraceptive methods with advantages in some aspects and disadvantages in others from which people should be able to choose according to their particular characteristics and needs. Important aspects to take into consideration include effectiveness, convenience, and safety. In general, the most effective methods are more likely to have some side effects and method-related complications. However, when weighing the risks and benefits, the most effective methods have greater benefits on the health of women by protecting them better from the health risks of unwanted pregnancies. Most methods also have non-contraceptive benefits - for instance, combined oral contraceptives (COCs) provide important degrees of protection against endometrial and ovarian cancers, benign breast disease, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and ectopic pregnancy. They also reduce menstrual blood loss. Although barrier methods have lower effectiveness against pregnancy, their most important advantage is the protection they can provide against sexually transmitted diseases. The male condom in particular (and probably the female condom) has the special value of providing protection against HIV infection. This paper describes reversible methods of contraception including possible health risks and contraindications. Adequate counseling, however, is essential for people to make an appropriate choice of contraception and to secure safe and effective use of the method.