cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sensing the state of voice sources to improve multiplexer performance

The control of source-coded traffic at a multiplexer has been a topic of extensive research. Traditional approaches typically use feedback information on the buffer level in designing the control policy. While important, buffer levels capture only part of the information about the overall system state. By setting up this problem as a Markov decision process, the authors show that using information on the state (activity) of the sources, in addition to the buffer level, can result in significant improvements over traditional approaches. They demonstrate this for a multiplexer fed by /spl mu/-law encoded voice sources. Some of the scenarios studied exhibit a reduction in distortion exceeding 35%. In general, the improvement is heavily dependent on the correlation statistics of the sources. Emulations validate the analysis. The form and characteristics of the optimal control policies are also discussed.
Christopher R. Browning. The Origins of the Final Solution: The Evolution of Nazi Jewish Policy, September 1939–March 1942, with contributions by Jürgen Matthäus. Lincoln: University of Nebraska Press, and Jerusalem: Yad Vashem, 2004. xii, 615 pp.

Christopher Browning is perhaps most widely known for his seminal study of the motives of the “ordinary men” who perpetrated the systematic murder of European Jewry at the behest of the Third Reich. Nevertheless, in the past two decades he has devoted much of his attention to studying the processes and decisions that led the Reich to make systematic mass murder its official policy and to provide the impetus and means for its implementation. Now he has brought his empirical findings and interpretations together in a single volume that provides the most rigorous, cogent, and lucid analysis currently available of this crucial problem in the history of the encounter between Nazi Germany and the Jews.
Digitally controlled DC-DC converter for RF power amplifier

This paper describes design and implementation of a digitally controlled DC-DC converter that provides a dynamically adjustable supply voltage for an RF power amplifier (RFPA). The techniques employed in the design include a combination of constant-frequency continuous conduction mode and a variable-frequency discontinuous conduction mode to achieve very high converter efficiency over a wide range of output power levels. The variable-frequency converter control is accomplished using a simple current-estimator circuit, which eliminates the need for current sensing. An FPGA-based digital controller implementation allows programmability of the mode transition and other controller parameters. In the complete experimental system, which consists of the digitally controlled DC-DC converter and a class-E RFPA operating at 10 GHz, experimental results show that the overall system efficiency is significantly improved over a wide range of RFPA output power levels, e.g. from 22% to 65% at a low power level.
Extended-release naltrexone plus medical management alcohol treatment in primary care: findings at 15 months

Abstract The feasibility of long-term extended-release naltrexone (XR-NTX) alcohol treatment is unknown. Following an initial 12-week, single-arm, observational trial of XR-NTX plus medical management (MM) in primary care, we offered 48 additional weeks of XR-NTX treatment (12 additional monthly injections) in two public primary care clinics as a naturalistic extension study. Of 65 alcohol dependent adults initiating XR-NTX treatment, 40 (62%) completed the initial 12-week XR-NTX observational trial, and 19 (29%) continued treatment for a median of 38 weeks total (range, 16–72 weeks; median 8 total XR-NTX injections). Among active extension phase participants, self-reported rates of drinking days (vs. last 30 days pre-treatment baseline) were low: median 0.2 vs. 6.0 drinks per day; 82 vs. 38% days abstinent; 11 vs. 61% heavy drinking days. Long-term XR-NTX treatment in a primary care MM model was feasible and may promote lasting drinking reductions or alcohol abstinence (clinical trial: NCT00620750 ).
Report from the Council of Emergency Medicine Residency Directors subcommittee on graduate medical education funding: effects of decreased medicare support.

Introduction: Recent changes by the Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA) have resulted in decreased Medicare support for emer- gency medicine (EM) residencies. Objective: To de- termine the effects of reduced graduate medical ed- ucation (GME) funding support on residency size, resident rotations, and support for a fourth postgrad- uate year (PGY) of training and for residents with previous training. Methods: A 36-question survey was developed by the Council of Emergency Medicine Residency Directors (CORD) committee on GME funding and sent to all 122 EM program directors (PDs). Responses were collected by the Society for Ac- ademic Emergency Medicine (SAEM) office and blinded with respect to the institution. Results: Of 122 programs, 109 (89%) responded, of which 78 were PGY 1-3 programs, 19 were PGY 2-4, and 12 were PGY 1-4. The PDs were asked specifically whether there were changes in program size due to changes in Medicare reimbursement. Although few programs (12%) decreased their size or planned to decrease their size, 39% had discussions regarding decreasing their size. Thirty percent of the PDs responded that other programs at their institution had already de- creased their size; 26% of the PDs had problems with financing outside rotations; and 24% had a decrease in off-service residents in their emergency depart- ments (EDs). Only seven (6%) of programs paid resi- dents from practice plan dollars, while most (82%) were fully supported by federal GME funding. Nearly all four-year programs (97%) received full resident salary support from their institutions and 77% of pro- grams accept residents with previous training. Con- clusions: Nearly all EM programs are fully supported by their institutions, including the fourth postgrad- uate year. Most programs take residents with previ- ous training. Although few programs have reduced their size, many are discussing this. Many programs have had difficulty with funding off-service rotations and many have had decreased numbers of off-service residents in their EDs. Recent GME funding changes have had adverse effects on EM residency programs.
Concentration and cavitation in the vanishing pressure limit of solutions to the Euler equations for nonisentropic fluids

Numerical simulations [2-D Riemann problem in gas dynamics and formation of spiral, in: Nonlinear Problems in Engineering and Science—Numerical and Analytical Approach (Beijing, 1991), Science Press, Beijing, 1992, pp. 167–179; Discrete Contin. Dyn. Syst. 1 (1995) 555–584; 6 (2000) 419–430] for the Euler equations for gas dynamics in the regime of small pressure showed that, for one case, the particles seem to be more sticky and tend to concentrate near some shock locations, and for the other case, in the region of rarefaction waves, the particles seem to be far apart and tend to form cavitation in the region. In this paper we identify and analyze the phenomena of concentration and cavitation by studying the vanishing pressure limit of solutions of the full Euler equations for nonisentropic compressible fluids with a scaled pressure. It is rigorously shown that any Riemann solution containing two shocks and possibly one-contact-discontinuity to the Euler equations for nonisentropic fluids tends to a δ-shock solution to the corresponding transport equations, and the intermediate densities between the two shocks tend to a weighted δ-measure that, along with the two shocks and possibly contact-discontinuity, forms the δ-shock as the pressure vanishes. By contrast, it is also shown that any Riemann solution containing two rarefaction waves and possibly one-contact-discontinuity to the Euler equations for nonisentropic fluids tends to a two-contact-discontinuity solution to the transport equations, and the nonvacuum intermediate states between the two rarefaction waves tend to a vacuum state as the pressure vanishes. Some numerical results exhibiting the processes of concentration and cavitation are presented as the pressure decreases. © 2003 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved. MSC: 35L65; 35B30; 76E19; 35Q35; 35L67; 35B25; 65M06
Evolutionary approach to below replacement fertility.

The large human brain, the long period of juvenile dependence, long life span, and male support of reproduction are the co-evolutionary result of the human niche based on skill-in- tensive techniques of resource accrual. The regulation of fertility under traditional conditions is based upon a co-evolved psychology and physiology where adjustments of investment in offspring depend upon the returns to skill and mortality hazards. When all wealth is somatic, the hormonal system controlling ovulation and implantation translates income into genetic descendants. In modern society the existence of extra-somatic wealth is a critical condition to which our evolved proximate physio- logical mechanisms do not respond. However, psychological mechanisms regulating parental in- vestment in offspring quality may lead to greater and greater investment in own and offspring education, a smaller desired family size, a delay in the onset of reproduction, and a reduction in the total numbers of offspring produced. This delay in reproduction can cause many individuals to pro- duce fewer children than desired because fecundity falls during the reproductive part of the life course. As more individuals in a society follow this pattern, more will fail to reach their desired family size. At the same time the effective use of birth control decreases the numbers of families producing more children than desired. Below replacement fertility can result. Predictions from this model were tested using data from the National Survey of Families and Households and the Albuquerque Men study. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 14:233-256, 2002. 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc
Risk Management and Quality Management in Long-Term Care Organizations: A Collaborative Model

The U.S. long-term care system is complex and heavily regulated, yet incidences of risks continue to occur and result in lowered quality of care, and adversely affect patient safety. Risks can be minimized and avoided to safeguard the health and well being of consumers utilizing long-term care services. The key component to minimizing risks and potential hazards and ensuring high quality in long-term care facilities is to integrate quality management programs and quality improvement efforts with risk management activities. Currently, risk management and quality management are two distinct functions in long-term care organizations. Although some activities may be linked, actual coordination and true integration have not taken place. Expansion and integration of risk management and quality improvement functions will result in more effectiveness for both areas. This paper develops a rational model to demonstrate that coordination and integration between risk management and quality management are essential to the delivery of cost effective and quality services in long-term care organizations.
Causes of Caprine Abortion: Diagnostic Assessment of 211 Cases (1991–1998)

In an 8-year period, 1991-1998, 217 accessions of caprine abortions were submitted to the California Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory System. Of these 217 submissions, 211 were suitable for examination in this study (6 had insufficient data). Infectious agents as the cause of abortions were found in 37% of the cases: bacterial agents were identified in 30.5%, viral agents in 2%, fungal agents in 0.5%, and protozoal agents in 4% of the cases submitted. The most common causes of abortions were Chlamydia psittaci and Coxiella burnetii infection, which accounted for 23% of all goat abortions. Mineral deficiencies were observed in 4%, fetal anomalies accounted for 3%, and leukoencephalomalacia of the brain (probable oxygen deprivation) accounted for 3% of the submissions. No diagnosis was made in 112 of the 211 submissions (53%). No lesions were noted in 104 of the submissions (49%). The other 8 submissions (4%) had histologic lesions suggestive of a bacterial agent; however, no infectious agents were identified in these cases.
Practical interior tomography with radial Hilbert filtering and a priori knowledge in a small round area

Purposes Interior tomography problem can be solved using the so-called differentiated backprojection-projection onto convex sets (DBP-POCS) method, which requires a priori knowledge within a small area interior to the region of interest (ROI) to be imaged. In theory, the small area wherein the a priori knowledge is required can be in any shape, but most of the existing implementations carry out the Hilbert filtering either horizontally or vertically, leading to a vertical or horizontal strip that may be across a large area in the object. In this work, we implement a practical DBP-POCS method with radial Hilbert filtering and thus the small area with the a priori knowledge can be roughly round (e.g., a sinus or ventricles among other anatomic cavities in human or animal body). We also conduct an experimental evaluation to verify the performance of this practical implementation.
Ultrastructure and Sequential Development of Infectious Pancreatic Necrosis Virus

The morphology and sequential development of infectious pancreatic necrosis (IPN) virus, a pathogen of trouts, were studied by electron microscopy. Mature virions were seen in the cytoplasm of infected cells incubated at 24 C as early as 6 hr after infection. These virions were hexagonal in profile and approximately 55 nm in diameter. Generally between 8 to 10 hr after infection, virus crystals of various sizes were occasionally observed. Although virus replication did not appear to be confined to a particular cytoplasmic locus, mature virions were sometimes seen in association with unidentified tubular structures approximately 45 nm in outside diameter. Negative stains of virus revealed unenveloped icosahedra approximately 65 nm in diameter with probably 92 capsomeres. Contrary to a previous communication which reported IPN virus to have picornavirus-like morphology, we found it to morphologically resemble members of the reovirus group.
Time and amplitude dependent response of structures

SUMMARY An understanding of the precise nature of the non -linear response of structures is essential for future improvement of earthquake resistant design procedures. This paper presents a summary of observations of dynamic behaviour which were made on two typical modern buildings during a period of about ten years. These structures underwent numerous tests and experienced three strong earthquake ground motions . The data presented should prove useful for calibration of parameters in theoretical non-linear models. For buildings having an apparent soft -spring-type non -linearity, a partial or complete recovery of the structural stiffness appears to occur following the large strains created by strong ground shaking . The rate and extent of this recovery appear to depend strongly on the strain levels throughout the excitation.
Camera Focal Length and the Perception of Pictures.

Photographers, cinematographers, and computer-graphics engineers use certain techniques to create striking pictorial effects. By using lenses of different focal lengths, they can make a scene look compressed or expanded in depth, make a familiar object look natural or distorted, or make a person look smarter, more attractive, or more neurotic. Photographers have a rule of thumb that a 50 mm lens produces natural-looking pictures. We asked why pictures taken with a 50 mm lens look natural, while those taken with other focal lengths look distorted. We found that people's preferred viewing distance when looking at pictures leads them to view long-focal-length pictures from too near and short-focal-length pictures from too far. Perceptual distortions occur because people do not take their incorrect viewing distances into account. By following the rule of thumb of using a 50 mm lens, photographers greatly increase the odds of a viewer looking at a photograph from the correct distance, where the percept will be...
Specification And Testing Facilities For Optical Components Used In A High Average Power Visible Laser System

Optical component specifications for high average power laser systems must address performance, efficiency, maintainability, and reliability. The requirements for high performance optics goes beyond conventional methods of specification. Methods of specification for this application are discussed in addition to several areas that need attention within the optics community. The specifications must be based upon the available methods of testing. The ability to test the optical components is crucial to both successful manufacturing and system operation. This means that both the manufacturer and user must have testing capability. For large system applications, the test facility must be designed to meet the demand of a high volume of optics as well as measurement precision. The facility for testing these parts is described for an application requiring thousands of optical components. This test capability is also an important part of system design and development when the performance of high performance optics can be defined and incorporated during planning for a large facility.
Continuous hydrothermal synthesis and crystallization of magnetic oxide nanoparticles

The continuous hydrothermal synthesis of nanoparticles of two metal oxides (α–Fe2O3 and Co3O4) is described. Two variations of the technique were investigated, involving the precipitation reaction between a metal salt solution and a hydroxide solution at ambient conditions and at elevated temperatures. Elevated temperatures resulted in more uniform particles of α–Fe2O3 and Co3O4, although the actual sizes of the particles were apparently unaffected by the temperature. This behavior was attributed to the species present in solution and the solubilities of the cation(s), both of which were calculated via a thermodynamic model for the systems under study.
Compositionality: A Connectionist Variation on a Classical Theme

Connectionism has been attacked on the grounds that it does not employ compositionally structured representations (e.g., Fodor & Pylyshyn, 1988). This article develops the response that Connectionist models can, and in fact sometimes do, employ compositionally structured representations without, thereby, simply implementing a Classical “Language of Thought.” Focusing on the mode of combination employed in constructing representations, it distinguishes concatenative compositionality, essential to the Classical approach, from a merely functional counterpart increasingly common in Connectionist research. On the basis of this distinction it is possible to demonstrate that Connectionist representations can be compositional without being Classical, and further, that Fodor and Pylyshyn's supposedly conclusive arguments in favor of the Classical approach do not in fact support that approach over the Connectionist alternative (as opposed to an “ossociotionist” straw man).
Perfectionism and negative mood: The mediating roles of validation from others versus self.

This study examined a model in which the need for reassurance from others and the capacity for self-reinforcement mediated the relationships between two dimensions of perfectionism (evaluative concerns [EC] perfectionism and personal standards [PS] perfectionism) and anxiety and depression. Results from structural equation modeling of data from 295 college students from a large midwestern university indicated that the need for reassurance from others and the capacity for self-reinforcement fully mediated the relationship between EC perfectionism and anxiety as well as partially mediated the relationships between PS perfectionism and anxiety and depression. Moreover, 41% of the variance in anxiety and 50% of the variance in depression was explained by EC perfectionism, PS perfectionism, the need for reassurance from others, and/or the capacity for self-reinforcement.
Instability of De Sitter Space on Short Time Scales

We consider the Einstein gravitational field equations coupled to the expectation value of the stress tensor in a real scalar field theory with arbitrary mass and coupling to curvature. We consider small oscillations of the metric and linearize the response of the quantum wave functional and the stress-tensor expectation value. In a small-time approximation we find unstable oscillations for a minimally coupled field and stable oscillations in the case of conformal coupling.
Determination of vapor pressure from droplet evaporation kinetics

Abstract Evaporation kinetics of suspended single droplets are investigated in the temperature range 20 to 55°C, using Mie resonance spectroscopy. Experiments are carried out with a single-component organic droplet electrodynamically suspended either in a flowing N2 gas or in a vacuum, depending upon the volatility of the organic compound. A data analysis method is developed, which produces a best-fit empirical correlation in the form 1 n p= A+ B T +C 1 n T+DT k , that is valid over a temperature range spanning up to 9 decades on the vapor pressure scale. No estimate of the actual value of either the diffusivity or the evaporation coefficient is needed. This is accomplished by combining the high-temperature vapor pressure data available in the literature with the droplet evaporation rates measured in this work at lower temperatures. Results presented here for methanesulfonic acid, glycerol, oleic acid, and dioctyl phthalate clearly demonstrate the usefulness of the technique for ultra-low vapor pressure determinations.
The Child at Risk for Learning Disorder Can He Be Identified during the First Year of Life

In a prospective study, observable neurologic signs during the first year of life have been found to be related significantly to seven year neuro logic and psychologic measures which are associated with learning disabilities. Scored ratings of multiple outcome items are being found to be better for identifying these psychoneurologically inefficient chil dren than are isolated measures which reflect stress, such as prema turity or the Apgar rating. From the Collaborative Study schedules a neurologic "at risk" index is being developed. This promises to be help ful for identifying babies who are likely to have a later learning difficulty.
Long-term outcomes following spinal cord injury

Long-term outcome assessment of people with spinal cord injury (SCI) beyond acute rehabilitation is becoming an increasingly important issue as life expectancies for people with SCI approach those of the general population. This article provides information about research on the long-term physical and psychological well-being and the community integration of individuals with SCI. Persons with SCI have been found to have more physical and psychological problems and they are less well integrated into the community than the general population. Long-term measurement issues, criteria for selection of instruments, and recommended instruments are discussed.
The Future is Not the Past Repeated: Projecting Disasters in the 21st Century from Current Trends

Trends affecting the modern world are resulting in social changes that raise the probability of more and worse disasters in the 21st century. The negative factors mostly stem from ever-increasing industrialization and the urbanization process. The first trend may lead to computer and bio-technological consequences despite no casualties. The second trend means that there will be more to impact; greater negative effects from the urban bureaucracies and heterogeneous sub-cultures that characterize metropolitan areas; more vulnerable populations; and traditional communities are becoming less important as units for disaster planning. Some possible positive effects of other trends, such as the increasing importance of the mass media and the democratization of political activities, are unlikely to balance the negative effects of industrialization and urbanization.
Polarization tracker and PMD compensator for 112Gb/s direct-detect RZ-DQPSK PDM systems

The design of a polarization tracker and a PMDC for direct-detect RZ-DQPSK PDM systems is reviewed. The error signals are analyzed and their application spaces are identified. Experimental results are demonstrated to verify the designs.
Canadian exporting and non-exporting apparel firms: an analysis of manager-related variables

The Canadian apparel industry has experienced erosion of its market share to imported products. Exporting is a strategy to counteract this situation, yet only about 3% of total Canadian apparel shipments are exported. The purpose of this study was to examine the attitudes of Canadian apparel CEOs toward exporting and compare characteristics of exporters and non exporters. A self-administered questionnaire was mailed to 511 apparel manufacturers, with 56 usable questionnaires returned. Results of t-tests, indicated that CEOs of non-exporting firms perceived exporting to be more complicated than did CEOs of exporting firms. CEOs of exporting firms tended to have higher educational levels and were more likely to have traveled to the U.S. than CEOs of non-exporting firms.
Interannual, Decadal–Interdecadal, and Global Warming Signals in Sea Surface Temperature during 1955–97

Abstract Sea surface temperature (SST) data from the NOAA analysis for the period of 1955–97 are used to identify dominant spatial and temporal patterns associated with interannual, decadal–interdecadal variabilities, and global warming. For the global annual mean SST variation, a linear trend plus pronounced decadal–interdecadal and interannual variabilities are found. The linear trend reflects a slow warming of about 0.1°C in the past four decades. Superimposed on the linear trend is a relatively fast warming in the past two decades of approximately 0.2°–0.3°C, which is associated with the advent of the warm phase of a decadal–interdecadal oscillation. Also noted is the more frequent occurrence of warm events and the dearth of cold events on interannual timescales in the early and mid-1990s. For the last four decades, the tropical oceans have been warming at the faster rate while the extratropical North Pacific and the northwestern North Atlantic has been cooling at the slower rate. The exceptional inte...
Clusterin: an enigmatic protein recruited by diverse stimuli.

C lusterin* is a glycoprotein first isolated from ram rete testes fluid by Blaschuk, Burdzy, and Fritz in 1983 and so named because of its ability to elicit clustering of Sertoli cells. ’ ,’ Since that time, species homologues of clusterin have been isolated or cloned (or both) by a number of groups working in widely divergent areas (Table I). ‘-24 The pathways leading to clusterin have included studies of Sertoli cell biology, fertility, prostate atrophy, complement regulation, renal tubular injury, lipid transport, Alzheimer’s disease, and many more. The convergence of these disparate pathways on clusterin raises a number of intriguing questions including, and
Treatment of refractory aplastic anemia with recombinant human granulocyte-macrophage-colony-stimulating factor

Fifteen patients with refractory aplastic anemia or agranulocytosis received treatment with recombinant human granulocyte-macrophage-colony-stimulating factor (rhGM-CSF) in doses from 4 to 64 micrograms/kg/d by continuous intravenous (IV) infusion. Ten of 11 evaluable patients with aplastic anemia had substantial increments in granulocytes, monocytes, and eosinophils associated with myeloid and eosinophilic hyperplasia in the bone marrow. Patients with pretreatment granulocytes greater than 0.3 x 10(9)/L had greater increments in circulating myeloid cells than patients with more severe granulocytopenia. Only one patient had improvement in erythrocytes and platelets. Blood counts fell to baseline after rhGM-CSF treatment was discontinued. Doses up to 16 micrograms/kg/d were relatively well tolerated in the absence of extreme leukocytosis. Fatigue and myalgia were common. Three patients developed pulmonary infiltrates that resolved with discontinuation of treatment. Patients tended to have recurrent inflammation in previously diseased tissues. These data indicate that rhGM-CSF will increase circulating granulocytes, monocytes, and eosinophils in patients with refractory aplastic anemia. Further studies are necessary to determine if rhGM-CSF treatment will reduce morbidity or improve survival.
Molecular cloning and functional expression of a sodium-dicarboxylate cotransporter from human kidney

The renal Na(+)-dicarboxylate cotransporter reabsorbs Krebs cycle intermediates, such as succinate and citrate, from the glomerular filtrate. The present study describes the cloning and characterization of the human renal Na(+)-dicarboxylate cotransporter, hNaDC-1. The amino acid sequence of hNaDC-1 is 78% identical to the rabbit renal Na(+)-dicarboxylate cotransporter, NaDC-1, and 42% identical to the rat renal Na(+)-sulfate transporter, NaSi-1. The carboxy terminus of hNaDC-1 protein contains two N-glycosylation sites that appear to be utilized. Xenopus oocytes injected with hNaDC-1 cRNA expressed a low-affinity Na(+)-dependent dicarboxylate transporter with Michaelis constant (Km) for succinate around 0.4 mM. The transport of succinate by hNaDC-1 was insensitive to the pH of the medium, whereas the transporter of citrate was stimulated by acidic pH. Northern blot analysis indicates that hNaDC-1 mRNA is found in both kidney and intestine. The gene for hNaDC-1 was localized to chromosome 17. This study provides the first demonstration that the human kidney contains a low-affinity Na(+)-dicarboxylate cotransporter with properties that resemble those of the Na(+)-dicarboxylate cotransporter on the apical membrane of the rabbit renal proximal tubule.
Excretion of 17-ketosteroids in the rhesus monkey.

SummaryAn attempt was made to study the excretion of 17-ketosteroids in Rhesus monkey urine. No 17-ketosteroids could be detected by ultraviolet adsorption, sulfuric acid and infra-red spectra following chromatography of Zimmermann-material. This suggests that values quoted in the literature, based on Zimmermann reaction alone have led to erroneous conclusions.
Load Testing and Modeling of Two Integral Abutment Bridges in Vermont, US

Load testing of two instrumented single-span integral abutment bridges (IABs) in Vermont, US, was conducted using loaded multiple tandem dump trucks. Data was used to validate finite element (FE) m...
In vivo monitoring the biodegradation of magnesium alloys with an electrochemical H2 sensor.

Abstract Monitoring the biodegradation process of magnesium and its alloys in vivo is challenging. Currently, this process is monitored by micro-CT and X-ray imaging in vivo, which require large and costly instrumentation. Here we report a simple and effective methodology to monitor the biodegradation process in vivo by sensing H2 transdermally above a magnesium sample implanted subcutaneously in a mouse. An electrochemical H2 microsensor was used to measure the biodegradation product H2 at the surface of the skin for two magnesium alloys (ZK40 and AZ31) and one high purity magnesium single crystal (Mg8H). The sensor was able to easily detect low levels of H2 (30–400 μM) permeating through the skin with a response time of about 30 s. H2 levels were correlated with the biodegradation rate as determined from weight loss measurements of the implants. This new method is noninvasive, fast and requires no major equipment. Statement of Significance Biomedical devices such as plates and screws used for broken bone repair are being developed out of biodegradable magnesium alloys that gradually dissolve when no longer needed. This avoids subsequent removal by surgery, which may be necessary if complications arise. A rapid, non-invasive means for monitoring the biodegradation process in vivo is needed for animal testing and point of care (POC) evaluation of patients. Here we report a novel, simple, fast, and noninvasive method to monitor the biodegradation of magnesium in vivo by measuring the biodegradation product H2 with an electrochemical H2 sensor. Since H2 rapidly permeates through biological tissue, measurements are made by simply pressing the sensor tip against the skin above the implant; the response is within 30 s.
Hierarchically structured re-entrant microstructures for superhydrophobic surfaces with extremely low hysteresis

This paper reports a new type of hierarchically structured surface consisting of re-entrant silicon micropillars with silicon nanowires atop for superhydrophobic surface with extremely low hysteresis. Re-entrant microstructures were fabricated on a silicon substrate through a customized one-mask microfabrication process while silicon nanopillars were created on the entire surface of microstructures, including sidewalls, by a metal-assisted-chemical etching process. The strategy of constructing hierarchical surfaces aims to reduce the actual contact area between liquid and top part of solid surface, thereby increasing the contact angle and reducing the sliding angle. The strategy of using re-entrant profile of the microstructure aims to prevent a liquid droplet from falling into cavities of roughened structures and decrease the actual contact area between the liquid droplet and sidewalls of solid structures, therefore reducing adhesion forces acting on the liquid droplet. Our measurement shows that the surface incorporating both hierarchical and re-entrant strategies exhibits a sliding angle as low as 0.5°, much lower than sliding angles of surfaces only incorporating either one of the strategies.
The Potential of Animal Systemic Insecticides for Eradicating Cattle Grubs, Hypoderma spp.

Cattle grub eradication programs have been generally unsuccessful when mechanical contra] procedures or contact insecticides were used to destroy the larvae. Modern animal systemic insecticides are effective in controlling populations of cattle grubs, Hypoderma spp., and may be useful tools for eradication. IE possible, their use should be integrated with other control measures such as sterile-male releases and sex attractant control devices. A]so, programs should be developed in which systemic insecticides are used for the simultaneous control of several parasites.
Endovascular treatment of an aneurysm of a persistent primitive hypoglossal artery with complete resolution of brainstem compressive symptoms: case report.

Background and importance Aneurysms of the posterior circulation may manifest with neurological deficits related to mass effect on the brainstem. We present an unusual case of an aneurysm resulting in selective lower-extremity weakness and gait instability. Clinical presentation A 61-year-old man presents with progressively worsening gait instability over the course of several months. A magnetic resonance image and computed tomographic angiogram demonstrate a persistent hypoglossal artery associated with an aneurysm invaginating into the pontomedullary junction. The patient manifested only lower-extremity symptoms. An endovascular approach through the right internal carotid artery and persistent primitive hypoglossal artery was assayed, coiling off the aneurysm with complete angiographic occlusion. One month after the procedure, the patient reported marked improvement in symptoms with residual difficulty walking. At the 1-year postprocedure interval, he reported nearly complete resolution of symptoms. Conclusion Endovascular therapy of an aneurysm invaginating into the brainstem is safe and efficacious.
Alternative Methods for Evaluating rs(n)

Theorem 12.1 is formulated in [72] as follows: Theorem 1. For integers h, k with (h, k) = 1, let \( \lambda \left( {h/k} \right) = {\left( {2k} \right)^{{ - 1}}}\sum\nolimits_{{q = 1}}^{{2k}} {{e^{{2\pi ih{q^{2}}/2k}}}} \) and set \( {A_{k}} = \sum\nolimits_{{1 \le h \le 2k,\left( {h,k} \right) = 1}} {{\lambda ^{s}}{e^{{ - 2\pi ihn/2k}}}} \). Then, if \( S\left( n \right) = \sum\nolimits_{{k = 1}}^{\infty } {{A_{k}}} \) and s = 5, 6, 7, or 8, one has for some constant c = c(s), independent of n, that $${r_{s}}\left( n \right) = c\left( s \right){n^{{\left( {s/2} \right) - 1}}}S\left( n \right) $$ .
CLINICAL EDUCATION IN THE AMBULATORY CARE SETTING

New training initiatives in ambulatory medicine are being developed in medical schools and residency training programs due to the need to expand education in ambulatory medicine. Most diagnostic and management decisions are being made in outpatient settings. In this context the perception of what constitutes effective teaching in the ambulatory setting needs to be addressed. The skills of questioning, role modeling, emphasizing general principles, and concept comprehension are similar in both inpatient teaching and outpatient teaching. The approach to problem solving, site of teaching, and provision of feedback may differ from inpatient teaching.
Vapor-phase photochemistry of pesticides

It has been realized for some time that the atmosphere is a major transport medium and reservoir for pesticide residues. Pesticides may enter the atmosphere as drift during application, ppby erosion of surface deposits, and by evaporation from foliage, soil, and water surfaces. Evidence comes from analysis of spray drift (dyAkesson and Yates 1964, Yule et al. 1971, Byass and Lake 1977), studies of evaporation rates in both model and real environments (Hartley 1969, Spencer et al. 1973, Taylor et al. 1978), and analysis of ambient air samples (Risebrough et al. 1968, Kutz et al. 1976, Arthur et al. 1976). The amounts which may become airborne depend on the nature of the application and the properties of the chemical. For foliage-applied chemicals of moderate volatility such as para- thion, estimates of evaporative loss within a few days following treatment are in excess of 90% (Spencer et al. 1973); in a few cases these estimates have been verified by air sampling above treated foliage (Taylor et al. 1978).
Clinicopathological characteristics of systemic mastocytosis in the intestine.

Introduction Gastrointestinal (GI) involvement by systemic mastocytosis (SM) presents with nonspecific symptoms, and pathologic diagnosis can be difficult when a subtle mast cell infiltrate is present. This series aims to characterize the clinicopathologic features in diagnostically challenging cases. Methods Seven patients with GI biopsies showing an atypical mast cell infiltrate were identified, including 3 consultation cases in which mast cells were initially overlooked. Clinicopathologic characteristics were evaluated. Results Biopsies showed involvement of the large bowel (n=5), small bowel (n=1), or both (n=1) by a wide morphologic spectrum of mast cells, including: bland spindle cells; small cells with irregular nuclei; and medium-sized monotonous cells with abundant pale cytoplasm. The patterns of mucosal involvement included: a polypoid mast cell aggregate (n=1); a confluent subepithelial band of mast cells (n=3); and multifocal aggregates of mast cells (n=3). There were admixed eosinophils with a noticeable lack of plasma cells. Mast cells in all cases showed strong positive staining for CD117 and CD25. All patients fulfilled WHO criteria for SM. On follow-up in 4 cases, none had progression of disease. Conclusions Atypical mast cell infiltrates in the intestine are often subtle and can easily be overlooked. Clues to diagnosis include lamina propria expansion by monotonous cells with pale cytoplasm, admixed eosinophils, and absence of crypt distortion or significant plasmacytic infiltrate. While most patients with GI involvement by SM are symptomatic, a subset remains asymptomatic, and the absence of clinical suspicion of mast cell disease adds to the difficulty in making a diagnosis of SM. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Association of pollution and climate with atopic eczema in US children

Background We sought to determine the relationship between childhood eczema, climate, and environmental pollutants. Methods We analyzed data from the 2007–2008 National Survey of Children's Health including a representative sample of 91,642 children age 0–17 years and the 2006–2007 Environmental Protection Agency measurements of carbon monoxide (CO), nitrate (NO3), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), organic carbon (OC), sulfate (SO3), sulfur dioxide (SO2), particulate matter ≤2.5 μm (PM-2.5) and <10 μm (PM-10), and tropospheric ozone levels, and the National Climate Data Center measurements of relative humidity (%), issued UV index, outdoor air temperature, and precipitation levels. Results In multivariate survey logistic regression models controlling for age, sex, race/ethnicity, household income, US birthplace, and history of moving to a new location, eczema was associated with higher mean annual NO2 (p = 0.008), SO2 (p = 0.006), SO3 (p = 0.0002), arsenic (p = 0.0007), nickel (p = 0.0002), lead (p = 0.03), vanadium (p < 0.0001), and zinc (p = 0.003), but lower NO3 (p = 0.002), OC (p = 0.03), PM-2.5 (p = 0.006), cadmium (p < 0.0001), copper (p = 0.004), and potassium (p < 0.0001). In contrast, moderate–severe eczema was associated with higher NO3 (p = 0.03), OC (p = 0.008) and PM-2.5 (p = 0.01), copper (p = 0.04), lead (p = 0.008), and zinc (p = 0.01), but lower CO (p = 0.03). Principal component analysis was used and identified 4 combinations of pollutants and climate factors occurring in the USA, of which 1 was associated with higher prevalence and two were associated with lower prevalences of eczema (p < 0.05). Conclusions Pollutants in conjunction with climate factors may differentially impact eczema prevalence and severity, some with apparent harmful effects.
Conclusions: many claims, many issues

I have made many claims in this book. Some of them are quite straightforward, while others are more anomalous. Some have lots of good evidence, while some have less. Some issues seem clearly nailed down, while for others I have said that “more research is needed.” Now I want to summarize the whole picture of the meaning response, and indicate what we need to know most to make this powerful human process more understandable, and maybe even more useful. People live in rich and complex worlds of their own construction. Whether they are nuclear physicists, Jesuit priests, or members of the Taliban in Afghanistan; British, French or German; Navajo, Seneca, or Maya; in any case, people view the same world in many different ways, making sense of it, making it meaningful in many different ways. It is easy to overstate the case for cultural differences: all societies have families, provide food, speak languages, and share understandings. But the differences remain profound; I would argue, for example, that these differences are far greater and far more important than any genetic variations among human beings. What might appear to an outside observer to be very minuscule differences (e.g., that the bread and wine “are” the body and blood of Christ rather than that the bread and wine “represent” the body and blood of Christ) can be matters of enormous importance (the issue of “transubstantiation” was - indeed still is - probably the most important theological issue in the many disputes of the Protestant Reformation).
Case Studies in the Elementary Classroom

In this chapter, I invite the reader to the two elementary classrooms. I present the study that I conducted over one semester in an urban public school. I entered the research site with a broader question: how do novice teachers work with refugee and immigrant students and assist them in their language and literacy development? In examining this question, I prepared interview questions focusing on the teachers’ perceptions of the students, instructional approaches, and the resources that they use to support the students’ language and literacy learning. This study, therefore, supplements my focus on studying more experienced teachers in the previous chapter. The major difference between the previous case studies and the current study is the student population in the classroom: ELLs are the majority in this urban school setting.
Steroid receptors. How to be both a receptor and a transcription factor.

Revue rassemblant donnees recentes de trois questions cles de l'action des hormones steroides: le domaine fonctionnel des recepteurs aux steroides, regulation de l'activite du recepteur apres fixation et regulation de la transcription du gene par le recepteur. Revue focalisee sur la structure et la fonction des recepteurs aux glucocorticoides et des œstrogenes
Prevalence of high-risk behaviors and obesity among low-income patients attending primary care clinics in Louisiana.

This study examined the prevalence of the most prominent high-risk behaviors that contribute to mortality in the United States (i.e., sedentary lifestyle, cigarette smoking, and high dietary fat intake) and obesity among low-income patients attending primary care clinics in Louisiana. The sample consisted of 1,132 patients attending primary care clinics that were randomly selected and administered a demographic questionnaire, the 1994 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, and the Eating Patterns Questionnaire. Participants consisted predominantly of African-American (67.7%), uninsured (73.3%), low-income, middle-aged females. Prevalence of high-risk behaviors included sedentary lifestyle (47.1%), cigarette smoking (26.2%), and high dietary fat intake (61.3%). Prevalence of obesity was 63.5%. In conclusion, low-income patients attending primary care clinics in Louisiana display a high frequency of important high-risk behaviors that contribute to mortality in this country. Obesity is also extremely prevalent in this population. Clinical implications and directions for future studies are discussed.
Experimental validation and characterization of a real-time metrology system for photopolymerization-based stereolithographic additive manufacturing process

Exposure Controlled Projection Lithography (ECPL) is a stereolithography-based additive manufacturing process, curing photopolymer parts on a stationary substrate. To improve the process accuracy with a closed-loop control, an in situ interferometric curing monitoring and measurement (ICM&M) system was developed to infer the output of cured height. The authors have previously reported an ICM&M method which consists of a sensor model for the ICM&M system and online parameter estimation algorithms based on instantaneous frequency. In this paper, to validate the ICM&M method, an application program was created in MATLAB to integrate the ECPL and ICM&M systems and to acquire and analyze interferograms online. Given the limited computing power, the ECPL process interferograms were acquired real time and analyzed off-line. A series of experiments was performed curing square samples by varying exposure time and intensity. Results show that the ICM&M can provide a cost-effective measurement for cured heights with excellent accuracy and reliability, and possess decent capability of estimating lateral dimensions. The off-line ICM&M is a convincing demonstration and benchmark for the real-time ICM&M metrology, providing a comprehensive evaluation of the ICM&M system’s measurement characteristics as well as its utilities in modeling and control of the additive manufacturing process dynamics.
Classification and remediation of electrical faults in the switched reluctance drive

The switched reluctance drive is known to be fault tolerant, but it is not fault free. The goals of this study are the systematic classification of all electrical faults, short-and open-circuits, in the switched reluctance drive (excluding the controller itself), and the investigation of fault patterns and possible remediation. Each situation is analyzed via finite element analysis, and/or experiments. The transient effects during the faults are described. Possible remediation schemes other than disabling the faulted phase are explored. There is a particular focus on switch short-circuit for which new results are presented.