cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Parametric Identification of Multiplicative Exponential Heteroscedasticity

Harvey (1976) first proposed multiplicative exponential heteroscedasticity in the context of linear regression. These days it is more commonly seen in latent variable models such as Probit or Logit where correctly modelling the heteroscedasticity is imperative for consistent parameter estimates (Yatchew and Griliches, 1985). However, it appears the literature lacks a formal proof of point identification for the parametric model. This paper presents several examples that show the conditions presumed throughout the literature are not sufficient for identification. As a contribution, this paper discusses when identification can and cannot be easily obtained and provides proofs of point identification in common specifications.
Heart-Kidney and Heart-Liver Transplantation Provide Immunoprotection to the Cardiac Allograft.

Background Prior single-center studies suggest that kidney and liver allografts are immunoprotective toward transplanted hearts. The broader effects of the simultaneous transplantation of kidney or liver on protection from rejection are unclear. Methods The United Network for Organ Sharing database for heart transplantation was queried from 1987 to 2015 and stratified into patients undergoing heart-liver transplantation (HLT) (n = 192), heart-kidney transplantation (HKT) (n = 1,174), and heart-only transplantation (HT) (n = 61,471). Perioperative and follow-up data were compared between HT versus HLT and HT versus HKT groups using analysis of variance (continuous), chi-square test (categorical), and Kaplan-Meier curves (survival). Results HKT patients were older (51.2 ± 13.4 years of age) compared with HT patients (45.6 ± 19.2 years of age; p Conclusions Nationally, HKT and HLT have equivalent postoperative outcomes as HT. Simultaneous kidney or liver transplantation confers an improved clinical and immunologic outcome.
Pt-Based Catalysts for Electrochemical Oxidation of Ethanol

Despite its attractive features as a power source for direct alcohol fuel cells, utilization of ethanol is still hampered by both fundamental and technical challenges. The rationale behind the slow and incomplete ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR) with low selectivity towards CO2 on most Pt-based catalysts is still far from being understood, and a number of practical problems need to be addressed before an efficient and low-cost catalyst is designed. Some recent achievements towards solving these problems are presented. Pt film electrodes and Pt monolayer (PtML) electrodes on various single crystal substrates showed that EOR follows the partial oxidation pathway without C-C bond cleavage, with acetic acid and acetaldehyde as the final products. The role of the substrate lattice on the catalytic properties of PtML was proven by the choice of appropriate M(111) structure (M = Pd, Ir, Rh, Ru and Au) showing enhanced kinetics when PtML is under tensile strain on Au(111) electrode. Nanostructured electrocatalysts containing Pt-Rh solid solution on SnO2 and Pt monolayer on non-noble metals are shown, optimized, and characterized by in situ methods. Electrochemical, in situ Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) techniques highlighted the effect of Rh in facilitating C-C bond splitting in the ternary PtRh/SnO2 catalyst. In situ FTIR proved quantitatively the enhancement in the total oxidation pathway to CO2, and in situ XAS confirmed that Pt and Rh form a solid solution that remains in metallic form through a wide range of potentials due to the presence of SnO2. Combination of these findings with density functional theory calculations revealed the EOR reaction pathway and the role of each constituent of the ternary PtRh/SnO2 catalyst. The optimal Pt:Rh:Sn atomic ratio was found by the two in situ techniques. Attempts to replace Rh with cost-effective alternatives for commercially viable catalysts has shown that Ir can also split the C-C bond in ethanol, but the performance of optimized Pt-Rh-SnO2 is still higher than that of the Pt-Ir-SnO2 catalyst.
Frack to the future: What enticed small firms to enter the natural gas market during the hydraulic fracturing boom?

Abstract The shale gas boom of the early 2000s saw the highest and most volatile natural gas prices and production in history. Advances in horizontal drilling, 3-D seismic imaging, and hydraulic fracturing made it highly profitable for firms to produce large quantities of shale gas. This period was also characterized by a shift in market structure. The U.S. natural gas market was historically defined by large firms, but a large number of small firms began entering the market after 2000. While small firms made a negligible contribution to natural gas production during the shale gas boom, their entry may signal overcapitalization, productivity growth, and increased responsiveness of natural gas markets to exogenous shocks. We develop a real options model of market entry and exit and use data on natural gas drilling activity to test three potential explanations for small firm entry during the boom: 1. technological advances, 2. land lease speculation, and 3. regime change in natural gas prices. Our analysis provides mixed support for the first explanation but strong support for the last two.
Why do the Strategies Differ

In this paper, I shall try to describe some of the common themes and areas of difference in what has been presented in the preceeding paper, because I think there is a very important set of common themes that emerge. I’ll also try to identify what the differences are in approach and conclusion, and some of the reasons for those differences. I hope to help you in assessing what the available evidence is for distinguishing among those approaches and deciding which of them makes more sense. Those reflections sometimes require going a little bit behind the presentations and conclusions to ask where they come from.
Garbage Weight Estimation System

City of Huntington faces an issue of evenly distributed garbage collection among multiple fleets of trucks on different routes for fair amount of work for workers. This paper describes a method to estimate the weight of garbage picked by the trucks in each block of the city of Huntington based on a hypothesis of a correlation between the total number of stops and the total weight of garbage collected. A device was developed and mounted to the truck to collect data of truck movement. The data was analyzed to generate the number of stops the truck made and the results were compared with the weight of garbage collected throughout the route by a particular truck. Experimental results showed strong correlation between number of stops and garbage collected. Future enhancement is discussed.
Excess Costs and Economic Burden of Obesity-Related Cancers in the United States

Abstract Background Obesity is a significant risk factor of several cancers that imposes a substantial economic burden on US healthcare that remains to be quantified. We estimated the excess costs and economic burden of obesity-related cancers in the United States. Methods From the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (2008-2015) data, we identified 19 405 cancer survivors and 175 498 non-cancer individuals. We estimated annual health expenditures using generalized linear regression with log link and gamma distribution by cancer types (stratified by 11 obesity-related cancers and other cancer types), controlling for sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. All cost estimates were adjusted to 2015 USD value. Results The average annual total health expenditures were $21 503 (95% CI, $20 946-$22 061) for those with obesity-related cancer and $13 120 (95% CI, $12 920-$13 319) for those with other cancer types. There was a positive association between body mass index and health expenditures among cancer survivors: for each additional 5-unit increase in body mass index, the average predicted expenditures increase by $1503 among those with obesity-related cancer and by $722 among those with other cancers. With adjustments for sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, the mean incremental expenditures of treating obesity-related cancer were 2.1 times higher than those of other cancers ($4492 vs $2139) and more considerable among the non-elderly cancer population. Obesity-related cancers accounted for nearly 43.5% of total direct cancer care expenditures, estimated at $35.9 billion in 2015. Conclusion The economic burden of obesity-related cancer in the United States is substantial. Our findings suggest a need for the inclusion of comprehensive obesity prevention and treatment in cancer care.
Effects of Narrowband Light on Choroidal Thickness and the Pupil.

Purpose To determine the effects of narrowband light exposure on choroidal thickness and the pupil response in humans. Methods Twenty subjects, ages 21 to 43 years, underwent 1 hour of exposure to broadband, short wavelength "blue," or long wavelength "red" light, or darkness. Choroidal thickness, imaged with spectral domain optical coherence tomography, axial length, determined from biometry, and rod/cone- and intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cell-driven pupil responses were measured before and after exposure. Pupil stimuli were six 1 second alternating red (651 nm) and blue (456 nm) stimuli, 60 seconds apart. Pupil metrics included maximum constriction and the 6 second post-illumination pupil response (PIPR). Results Compared with before exposure, the choroid significantly thinned after broadband light, red light, and dark exposure (all P 0.05). There were no differences in axial length change or 6-second PIPR to red stimuli between exposures. Conclusions Narrowband blue and red light exposure induced differential changes in choroidal thickness. Maximum constriction, a function of rod/cone activity, and the intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cell-mediated PIPR were attenuated after all light exposures. Findings demonstrate differing effects of short-term narrowband light and dark exposure on the choroid, rod/cone activity, and intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells.
Volatile biomarkers of malaria infection

Abstract Plasmodium falciparum, the primary cause of deadly human malaria, remains a critical global health concern, particularly for young infants and children who are uniquely susceptible to severe disease and death. Currently, the most widespread rapid diagnostics tests for malaria have high false-positive rates and are increasingly at risk due to the spread of parasite strains that avoid detection. There is an urgent need for new malaria diagnostics, and the World Health Organization has declared this a key global health priority. Multiple studies indicate that Plasmodium-infected hosts are more attractive to Anopheles mosquitoes than uninfected and gametocyte-negative controls. This altered behavioral preference is likely due to changes in the infected host's odor profile, as reflected in the skin and breath. This chapter examines the changes that Plasmodium spp. infection imparts on host odors and the resulting influences on vector behavior. Recent studies on human malaria, which have investigated the malaria-induced changes in skin and breath odors in asymptomatic and symptomatic malaria patients, are reviewed.
Costs of open, arthroscopic and combined surgery for developmental dysplasia of the hip.

A variety of options exist for management of patients with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). Most studies to date have focused on clinical outcomes; however, there are currently no data on comparative cost of these techniques. The purpose of this study was to evaluate in-hospital costs between patients managed with periacetabular osteotomy, hip arthroscopy or a combination for DDH. One hundred and nine patients were included: 35 PAO + HA, 32 PAO and 42 HA. There were no significant differences in the demographic parameters. Operative times were significantly different between groups with a mean of 52 min for PAO, 100 min for HA and 155 min for PAO + HA, (P < 0.001). Total direct medical costs were calculated and adjusted to nationally representative unit costs in 2017 inflation-adjusted dollars. Total in-hospital costs were significantly different between each of the three treatment groups. PAO + HA was the most expensive with a median of $21 852, followed by PAO with a median of $15 124, followed by HA with a median of $11 582 (P < 0.001). There was a significant difference between outpatient median costs of $11 385 compared with $24 320 for inpatients (P < 0.001). Procedures with greater complexity were more expensive. However, a change from outpatient to inpatient status with HA moved that group from the least expensive to similar to PAO and PAO + HA. These data provide an important complement to clinical outcomes reports as surgeons and policymakers aim to provide optimal value.
Bias and the Bar: Evaluating the ABA Ratings of Federal Judicial Nominees

The vetting of potential federal judges by the Standing Committee on Federal Judiciary of the American Bar Association (ABA) is politically controversial. Conservatives allege the Standing Committe...
Two Hours of In Vivo Lung Perfusion Improves Lung Function in Sepsis-Induced Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome.

Sepsis is the leading cause of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in adults and carries a high mortality. Utilizing a previously validated porcine model of sepsis-induced ARDS, we sought to refine our novel therapeutic technique of in vivo lung perfusion (IVLP). We hypothesized that 2 hours of IVLP would provide non-inferior lung rehabilitation compared to 4 hours of treatment. Adult swine (n = 8) received lipopolysaccharide to develop ARDS and were placed on central venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Animals were randomized to 2 vs 4 hours of IVLP. The left pulmonary vessels were cannulated to IVLP using antegrade Steen solution. After IVLP treatment, the left lung was decannulated and reperfused for 4 hours. Total lung compliance and pulmonary venous gases from the right lung (control) and left lung (treatment) were sampled hourly. Biochemical analysis of tissue and bronchioalveolar lavage was performed along with tissue histologic assessment. Throughout IVLP and reperfusion, treated left lung PaO2/FiO2 ratio was significantly higher than the right lung control in the 2-hour group (332.2 ± 58.9 vs 264.4 ± 46.5, P = 0.01). In the 4-hour group, there was no difference between treatment and control lung PaO2/FiO2 ratio (258.5 ± 72.4 vs 253.2 ± 90.3, P = 0.58). Wet-to-dry weight ratios demonstrated reduced edema in the treated left lungs of the 2-hour group (6.23 ± 0.73 vs 7.28 ± 0.61, P = 0.03). Total lung compliance was also significantly improved in the 2-hour group. Two hours of IVLP demonstrated superior lung function in this preclinical model of sepsis-induced ARDS. Clinical translation of IVLP may shorten duration of mechanical support and improve outcomes.
The curvature argument.

Abstract Dasgupta (2015) has recently put forward a novel argument, which he calls the ‘curvature argument’, that aims to show that Galilean spacetime is not an ideal setting for our classical theory of motion. This paper examines the curvature argument and argues that it is not sound. The discussion yields a remark about the conditions under which a ‘symmetry argument’ demonstrates that a particular spacetime is a non-ideal setting for our theory of motion.
Computing Phase Equilibria: How Gibbs Energy Considerations Reduce the Role of Rachford-Rice Analysis

In addition to indicating whether the flash problem will be a two-phase computational result, Gibbs stationary point analysis can provide superior K-value estimates that can be used to initiate the two-phase flash computation.
On Certain q -Polynomials

Let p be a prime number, q a power of p, F q the finite field of q elements and R any field containing F q . A polynomial L(X) ∈ R[X] of the form $$ L(X) = {c_n}{X^{{q^n}}} + {c_{n - 1}}{X^{{q^{n - 1}}}} + ... + {c_1}{X^q} + {c_0}X $$ (1) is called a q-polynomial. Note that every q-polynomial is also a p-polynomial. We assume throughout that L is monic (c n = 1) and c0≠ 0. Since L’(X) = c0≠ 0, this guarantees that L(X) has q n distinct roots (in any splitting field). If X,Y are indeterminates and a,b ∈ F q then L(aX + bY) = aL(X) + bL(Y); thus the mapping x → L(x) of R into itself is a linear transformation of R, considered as a vector space over F q . For this reason such polynomials are also called ‘linearized’ polynomials. If S is any extension field of R in which L(X) splits, the F q -linearity of L as a transformation of S shows that the set U of roots of L in S is an F q -space (for U in the kernel of L). Since ∣U∣ = q n , U is an n-dimensional F q -space. Conversely, starting with a given n-dimensional F q -subspace U of R it can be shown that the polynomial L(X)=Πu∊U (U-u) is indeed a q-polynomial of the shape (1); we write it as L(X; U) to indicate the dependence on U. For a proof of this fact and further information about q-polynomials see [3]. Although that book is concerned only with finite fields note that Lemma 3.51 and Theorem 3.52 on pp. 109–110 hold when F qm is replaced by any field R containing F q .
Performance tools on Intel scalable high performance computing systems

A massive breakthrough of scalable high performance computing (SHPC) systems depends strongly on the ease of programming. Programming environments have to be provided wich enable the user to program and use SHPC systems in an efficient and transparent manner. A special challenge within these parallel programming environments are performance tuning tools. The paper gives an industrial perspective on the development of performance tools for SHPC systems with a focus on the ParAide programming environment for Intel's Paragon (tm) supercomputer. An integrated approach that provides an extensible and consistent programming environment for monitoring and visualizing the performance of parallel applications is presented. From the experiences made in the development of the Paragon performance toolset, future research directions are derived.
Alpha and Beta Globin Messenger Ribonucleic Acid: DIFFERENT AMOUNTS AND RATES OF INITIATION OF TRANSLATION

Abstract This paper demonstrates that regulation of synthesis of the two globin chains in the rabbit reticulocyte is complex: cells contain about 1.5 times more ribosome-associated α mRNA than β, but ribosomes initiate translation of each α mRNA only about 65% as frequently as a β mRNA. Hence regulation of globin synthesis occurs not only as a result of mRNA availability, but also as a consequence of selective ratios of initiation. These experiments utilize seven antibiotics—emetine, anisomycin, sparsomycin, blasticidin, cycloheximide, fusidic acid, and streptovitacin. We show that at concentrations which inhibit protein synthesis in reticulocyte extracts 60 to 80%, all reduce the rate of propagation of nascent globin chains, but do not directly inhibit initiation of new chains. This results in accumulation of large polyribosomes, in which the mRNA molecules are saturated with ribosomes. Under these conditions protein synthesis is not limited by chain initiation and the relative amount of the two globin chains produced should be proportional to the relative amount of the mRNA; indeed we find that all drugs induce a change in the ratio of α:β globin synthesized from 1.0 to about 1.5. Using two techniques to determine the classes of polyribosomes which are synthesizing each globin chain, we have confirmed the finding of Hunt et al., (Hunt, T., Hunter, T., and Munro, A., Nature, 220, 481 (1968)) that β chains are made on larger polyribosomes than α chains. We believe that this is due solely to the decreased rate of ribosome attachment to an α mRNA relative to a β mRNA. In accord with this notion, we show that in the presence of any of the seven translation inhibitors, both classes of globin chains are made on the same classes of very large polyribosomes, and that these ribosomes contain relatively more nascent α chains than β chains.
Uncertainty estimation for databased bathymetry using a Bayesian network approach

[1] A Bayesian network approach has been developed to estimate uncertainties for gridded bathymetry models that store grids of large regional or worldwide bathymetry. A previous technique to estimate uncertainty for historical data uses Monte Carlo simulations to estimate uncertainty using soundings data, but it is infeasible to implement for gridded bathymetry models. The Bayesian network is designed to estimate uncertainty using gridded bathymetry and a distribution of navigation uncertainties for the survey data used to create the grid as inputs. This paper discusses how the Monte Carlo technique is used to train the network and how to implement it to estimate gridded uncertainty. A demonstration of this approach is presented that uses the data from the original paper for the Monte Carlo technique. Both Monte Carlo and Bayesian network estimators provide higher uncertainty with bottom slope. The Bayesian network estimate is generally greater than the Monte Carlo approach, which is by design for navigation safety, but is within an order of magnitude agreement.
Downloadable Sounds Level 1 Specification

The Downloadable Sounds specification (DLS) defines a base-line architecture and file format which supports the playback of runtime-configurable sounds. Primary goals include consistency of audible results, flexible range of sounds, interactive control and reduced data size. The specification is primarily aimed at multimedia computing applications and platforms, but should also be useful for a range of other purposes. DLS was developed by a group of hardware and software companies under the auspices of the Interactive Audio Special Interest Group and the MIDI Manufacturers Association. This paper presents an overview of DLS Level 1, with a focus on the rationale, device architecture, file format and recommended protocols, and looks forwards to planned enhancements for DLS Level 2.
The subcellular biochemistry of human arterial lesions. I. Biochemical constituents and marker enzymes in diseased and unaffected portions of human aortic specimens.

Abstract Atheromatous lesions (including media beneath) and uninvolved media from neighboring areas of the same vessel were dissected from 23 human aortas obtained at autopsy. After tissue slices were taken for histological assessment, homogenates were prepared and the levels of DNA, protein, hydroxyproline, free and esterified cholesterol, and eight enzymes known to be associated with various subcellular organelles [ N -acetyl-β-glucosaminidase, β-galactosidase, cathepsin C, acid cholesteryl esterase ( lysosomes ); malate dehydrogenase ( mitochondria ); neutral α-glucosidase ( endoplasmic reticulum ); 5′-nucleotidase ( plasma membrane ); catalase (“microperoxisomes”)] were compared between lesions and uninvolved media preparations. No difference was found in the contents of the two samples in DNA, protein, malate dehydrogenase, neutral α-glucosidase, or 5′-nucleotidase. In contrast, the lesions were significantly enriched in catalase activity (67%) and in each of the acid hydrolases (55 to 126%) as well as in free (300%) and esterified (822%) cholesterol, based on DNA, compared to uninvolved media from the same vessels. Increases in both catalase and acid hydrolases correlated significantly with increases in total, free and esterified cholesterol contents of the preparations. Changes in the acid hydrolase specific activities were also correlated significantly with each other. Increased catalase and acid hydrolase activities in human atheromas are similar to previous findings in aortas of experimental animals fed a cholesterol-rich diet and suggest the participation of peroxisomes and lysosomes in the cellular response to lipid accumulation in atherosclerosis. Because the analyses were conducted on aortas taken at autopsy, modelexperiments on aortas of rabbit cadavers were also employed to determine the extent to which postmortem changes may have affected the levels of enzyme activities and chemical constituents surveyed. These studies showed only minor changes occur during the first 48 hr after death. Investigations of the latency of N -acetyl-β-glucosaminidase in postmortem human and rabbit aortas indicated that lysosomes of arterial cells remain intact for a considerable time after death.
STRAIN MODIFICATION IN THIN SI1-X-YGEXCY ALLOYS ON (100) SI FOR FORMATION OF HIGH DENSITY AND UNIFORMLY SIZED QUANTUM DOTS

The effects of alloying C with Ge and Si and varying the C/Ge ratio during the growth of very thin layers of the ternary alloy SiGeC grown on Si (100) substrates and the resulting strain modification on self-assembled and self-organized quantum dots are examined. During coherent islanded growth, where dislocations are not formed yet to relieve the strain, higher strain energy produced by greater lattice mismatch acts to reduce the island size, increase the density of islands, and significantly narrow the distribution of island sizes to nearly uniformly sized quantum dots. Strain energy can also control the critical thickness for dislocation generation within the three-dimensional islands, which then limits the maximum height which coherent islands can achieve. After the islands relax by misfit dislocations, the island sizes increase and the island size distribution becomes broader with the increase of misfit and strain. The optimal growth for a high density of uniform coherent islands occurred for the Si0...
Genetic and Biochemical Analysis of p23 and Ansamycin Antibiotics in the Function of Hsp90-Dependent Signaling Proteins

The ubiquitous molecular chaperone Hsp90 acts in concert with a cohort of associated proteins to facilitate the functional maturation of a number of cellular signaling proteins, such as steroid hormone receptors and oncogene tyrosine kinases. The Hsp90-associated protein p23 is required for the assembly of functional steroid aporeceptor complexes in cell lysates, and Hsp90-binding ansamycin antibiotics disrupt the activity of Hsp90-dependent signaling proteins in cultured mammalian cells and prevent the association of p23 with Hsp90-receptor heterocomplexes; these observations have led to the hypotheses that p23 is required for the maturation of Hsp90 target proteins and that ansamycin antibiotics abrogate the activity of such proteins by disrupting the interaction of p23 with Hsp90. In this study, I demonstrate that ansamycin antibiotics disrupt the function of Hsp90 target proteins expressed in yeast cells; prevent the assembly of Sba1, a yeast p23-like protein, into steroid receptor-Hsp90 complexes; and result in the assembly of receptor-Hsp90 complexes that are defective for ligand binding. To assess the role of p23 in Hsp90 target protein function, I show that the activity of Hsp90 target proteins is unaffected by deletion of SBA1. Interestingly, steroid receptor activity in cells lacking Sba1 displays increased sensitivity to ansamycin antibiotics, and this phenotype is rescued by the expression of human p23 in yeast cells. These findings indicate that Hsp90-dependent signaling proteins can achieve a functional conformation in vivo in the absence of p23. Furthermore, while the presence of p23 decreases the sensitivity of Hsp90-dependent processes to ansamycin treatment, ansamycin antibiotics disrupt signaling through some mechanism other than altering the Hsp90-p23 interaction.
Articular soft tissue anatomy of the archosaur hip joint: Structural homology and functional implications

Archosaurs evolved a wide diversity of locomotor postures, body sizes, and hip joint morphologies. The two extant archosaurs clades (birds and crocodylians) possess highly divergent hip joint morphologies, and the homologies and functions of their articular soft tissues, such as ligaments, cartilage, and tendons, are poorly understood. Reconstructing joint anatomy and function of extinct vertebrates is critical to understanding their posture, locomotor behavior, ecology, and evolution. However, the lack of soft tissues in fossil taxa makes accurate inferences of joint function difficult. Here, we describe the soft tissue anatomies and their osteological correlates in the hip joint of archosaurs and their sauropsid outgroups, and infer structural homology across the extant taxa. A comparative sample of 35 species of birds, crocodylians, lepidosaurs, and turtles ranging from hatchling to skeletally mature adult were studied using dissection, imaging, and histology. Birds and crocodylians possess topologically and histologically consistent articular soft tissues in their hip joints. Epiphyseal cartilages, fibrocartilages, and ligaments leave consistent osteological correlates. The archosaur acetabulum possesses distinct labrum and antitrochanter structures on the supraacetabulum. The ligamentum capitis femoris consists of distinct pubic- and ischial attachments, and is homologous with the ventral capsular ligament of lepidosaurs. The proximal femur has a hyaline cartilage core attached to the metaphysis via a fibrocartilaginous sleeve. This study provides new insight into soft tissue structures and their osteological correlates (e.g., the antitrochanter, the fovea capitis, and the metaphyseal collar) in the archosaur hip joint. The topological arrangement of fibro- and hyaline cartilage may provide mechanical support for the chondroepiphysis. The osteological correlates identified here will inform systematic and functional analyses of archosaur hindlimb evolution and provide the anatomical foundation for biomechanical investigations of joint tissues.
Individual income and falls among the elderly in Latin America

Aim: The burden of falls amongst the elderly raises important public health concerns. Empirical evidence suggests that macroeconomic growth may not be sufficient to reduce mortality and morbidity from injuries among the elderly. This paper consolidates macro- and microeconomic evidence of the effect of income on elderly falls in Latin America. Method: Using household databases, we estimate an empirical model to assess the relationship between income and falls. Results: The estimations indicate that an increase in personal income reduces the probability of falling; yet, the size of the effect is negligible. A 10% increase in income reduces the probability of falling between 0.001 and 0.002% while a 20% increase reduced the probability by up to 1%. Conclusion: These findings are consistent with macroeconomic data where morbidity and mortality among seniors are inelastic to economic growth. Policy implications of cash transfer programs targeting the elderly are discussed. Language: en
Effects of Enzyme Inhibitors and Insulin Concentration on Transepithelial Transport of Insulin in Rats

The objective of this study was to determine whether transepithelial transport of insulin can be improved by enzyme inhibitors and whether insulin concentration affects its ileal absorption. Ussing chambers and radioimmunoassay were used to study insulin transport across the rat ileum, and circular dichroic spectra were used to determine whether insulin aggregated at high concentrations. Inhibitors that inhibit insulin-degrading enzyme, including N-ethylmaleimide, 1,10-phenanthroline and N-chloromercuribenzoate, dramatically improved insulin transport across the ileum. At 100 nm, the ileal permeability of immunoreactive insulin was 10-6 cm s−1 in the presence of inhibitors, and was negligible when inhibitors were not used. Ammonium chloride, a lysosomotropic agent that increases intralysosomal pH, and aprotinin, a proteasome inhibitor, did not increase transport of insulin to a detectable extent. Insulin permeability decreased as its concentration increased from 100 nm to 83.3 μM, and at 83.3 μM insulin aggregated. It is concluded that insulin transport is improved by enzyme inhibitors, but is impaired by insulin aggregation at high concentrations.
Focused ultrasound treatment of uterine fibroid tumors: safety and feasibility of a noninvasive thermoablative technique.

Abstract Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the safety and efficacy of focused ultrasound surgery with magnetic resonance imaging guidance for the noninvasive treatment of uterine leiomyomas. Study Design: Fifty-five women with clinically significant uterine leiomyomas were treated. Pain and complications were assessed prospectively, and posttreatment magnetic resonance imaging was used to measure the treatment effects. Patients in three of the five centers underwent planned hysterectomy after treatment, which provided pathologic correlation of treatment. Results: Seventy-six percent of the enrolled patients completed the full treatment session. All treatments were conducted in an outpatient setting with minimal discomfort for subjects and no major complications. Pathologic examination of the uterus confirmed that magnetic resonance imaging guidance provides the safe and accurate delivery of effective levels of thermal energy with a 3-fold increase in volume of histologically documented necrosis, compared with treatment volume (6.6 ± 0.8 vs 18.4 ± 3.9 mL, P Conclusion: Magnetic resonance imaging-guided focused ultrasound surgery appears to be a well-tolerated treatment for uterine leiomyomas. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2003;189:48-54.)
Intelligent modeling and prediction of nanostructural behavior of humidity sensors

This paper presents the nanostructural characterization of a humidity sensor and obtains its intelligent models by using artificial neural networks and adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference systems. Three major processing components are manipulated via the sol-gel spin-coating technique to prepare an active element to detect humidity variations. The corresponding nanostructural analysis of the humidity sensor using X-ray powder diffraction generated the lattice distortion, known as tetragonality, data. Consequently, the three fabrication input components and the one output component of the humidity sensor data were used to obtain and validate intelligent models of the humidity sensor. The intelligent model and validation results demonstrate that the intelligent models of humidity sensors are suitable to improve the sensor fabrication process, to predict the sensor behavior under various conditions, and to help detect faulty humidity sensors.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries in Patients with Open Physes

From July 1988 to August 1989, six children with open physes and injuries to the anterior cruciate ligament were treated operatively. All injuries involved twisting episodes during sports activities. All six patients had meniscal abnormalities, and, additionally, one patient sustained a Grade III medical ligament tear and had a lateral patellar dislocation. Operative reconstruction used hamstring tendons and place a groove over the front of the tibia and a groove over the top of the femur without violation of the growth plates. The anterior cruciate ligament was primarily repaired (three patients) at the time of reconstruction, if possible. At 3 months, one patient underwent arthroscopic resection of adhesions for arthrofibrosis. There were no other complications. Five patients were evaluated with clinical examination, radiographs, magnetic resonance imaging, and functional testing at an average followup of 33.2 months (range, 25 to 38). Four of the five had returned to their preinjury level of sports participation. Manual maximum KT-1000 arthrometer side-to-side differences averaged 3.6 +/- 1.9 mm. The average Lysholm knee score was 95.2 +/- 2.5; the average Hospital for Special Surgery knee score was 96.6 +/- 2.3. There were no growth plate injuries. Despite the overall clinical stability, magnetic resonance image scans of the five patients consistently demonstrated areas of increased signal in the anterior cruciate ligament grafts.
On sensitivity minimization algorithms with quadratic performances

A qualitative study of sensitivity minimization of linear system with large parameter variations is reviewed. These results indicate the nature of these problems and their inherent relations with adaptive model following technique. The concept of plant-operator (or man in the loop) is mentioned briefly. The present results are a summary of the work done earlier in [2] and [3] by this author.
Ion-Assisted Pulsed Laser Deposition of Cubic Boron Nitride on Si (100) Substrates

We are studying the boron nitride system by using a pulsed excimer laser to ablate from hexagonal BN (hBN) targets to form cubic BN (cBN) films. We are depositing BN films on heated (400°C) Si (100) surfaces and are using a broad beam ion source operated with Ar and N 2 source gasses to produce BN films with a high percentage of sp 3 -bonded cBN. The best films to date show ∼85% sp 3 -bonded BN as determined from infrared (IR) reflection spectroscopy. High resolution transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and selected area electron diffraction (SAD) confirm the presence of cBN in these samples. The films are polycrystalline and show grain sizes up to 500 A.
Low temperature specific heat of the one-dimensional Heisenberg antiferromagnet α-bis-(N-Methylsalicylaldiminato) — Copper (II) [α-CuNSal]☆

Abstract Measurement of the specific heat of α-bis-(N-Methyl-Salicylaldiminato) - copper (II) (α-CuNSal) over the temperature range 0.07–3.5 K in applied magnetic fields of 0, 10, and 18 kOe is foundto be consistent with that of a one-dimensional spin- 1 2 Heisenberg antiferromagnet. Below 0.2 K, deviations from theory are interpreted as probably associated with the onset of three dimensional magnetic ordering.
Risk of gastrointestinal haemorrhage with calcium antagonists in hypertensive persons over 67 years old.

Abstract Summary Background Calcium antagonists are used frequently in management of hypertension. In addition to their cardiovascular effects, these drugs inhibit platelet aggregation. Therefore we examined whether the use of calcium antagonists was associated with an increased risk of gastrointestinal haemorrhage (GIH). Methods A prospective cohort study was conducted from 1985 through 1992 on 1636 hypertensive persons aged ≥68 years living in three communities. The participants were taking β-blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, or calcium antagonists; those taking combinations of these drugs were excluded. The incidence of GIH was assessed by surveying hospital discharge diagnoses and deaths. Age, gender. disability, arterial pressure, other drugs, and comorbid conditions were examined as confounders. Findings Compared with β-blockers (4819 person-years, 65 events), after adjustment for confounders the relative risk for GIH associated with ACE inhibitors (772 person-years, 13 events) was 1·23 (95% Cl 0·66-2·28) and with calcium antagonists (1510 person-years, 42 events) it was 1·86 (1·22-2·82). The risks for verapamil, diltiazem, and nifedipine did not differ significantly. The results were unchanged when the analyses were restricted to severe events (GIH in conjunction with blood transfusion or death). Interpretation Calcium antagonists were associated with an increased risk of GIH in this population. Therefore caution is needed in prescription of these agents to old patients who have other risk factors for gastrointestinal bleeding.
Assessment and treatment of autism

Physicians are often the first health care professionals to encounter children that display symptoms associated with developmental disorders such as autism. Unfortunately, there is lack of information regarding what strategies physicians should adopt in treating these symptoms and where they should look to refer individuals who present with severe symptoms of autism. This paper provides some preliminary information regarding the current behavioral assessment and treatment strategies in order to help physicians identify and make appropriate recommendations for successful treatment when working with autistic children. The essential components of successful treatment for autism are outlined; some preliminary treatment methodologies that physicians can recommend parents or caregivers attempt are also highlighted. In addition, the current behavioral treatment strategies used for acquisition of social skills and language are covered as well as methodologies for the reduction of maladaptive behavior in children with autism.
One New Theoretical Model for the Energy Spectrum of Cosmic Rays

The energy distribution of the primary cosmic rays (excluding the effects of propagation) is derived on the basis of a simple theoretical model of a random walk in random electrom;lgnetic fields. It is expected that this mechanism is universal in the sense that it can be embedded in various astrophysical acceleration processes.
Linkage between direct marketing and farm income: a double-hurdle approach

This study identifies factors affecting the adoption of a direct marketing strategy (DMS) by farmers and its impact on the gross sales of farm operations in the United States. The authors use a double-hurdle model and the 2002 Agricultural Resource Management Survey to evaluate empirically the adoption of a DMS and its impact on gross sales of farm operations managed by American farmers. Results suggest that production of organic crops and the regional location of the farm positively affect adoption of a DMS. Adoption of DMS, however, has a negative relation to large farms, farms with production contracts, and farms specializing in cash grains. Farms adopting a DMS are typically those with organic crops and those located in regions with access to a large metropolitan customer base. Our results show that farmers who have adopted a DMS continue to capture a larger proportion of the consumers’ dollar increase gross sales than those who have not adopted a DMS. [EconLit citations: Q120; Q130; Q140]. r 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Does neighborhood environment influence girls' pubertal onset? Findings from a cohort study

Pubertal onset occurs earlier than in the past among U.S. girls. Early onset is associated with numerous deleterious outcomes across the life course, including overweight, breast cancer and cardiovascular health. Increases in childhood overweight have been implicated as a key reason for this secular trend. Scarce research, however, has examined how neighborhood environment may influence overweight and, in turn, pubertal timing. The current study prospectively examined associations between neighborhood environment and timing of pubertal onset in a multi-ethnic cohort of girls. Body mass index (BMI) was examined as a mediator of these associations. Participants were 213 girls, 6-8 years old at baseline, in an on-going longitudinal study. The current report is based on 5 time points (baseline and 4 annual follow-up visits). Neighborhood environment, assessed at baseline, used direct observation. Tanner stage and anthropometry were assessed annually in clinic. Survival analysis was utilized to investigate the influence of neighborhood factors on breast and pubic hair onset, with BMI as a mediator. We also examined the modifying role of girls' ethnicity. When adjusting for income, one neighborhood factor (Recreation) predicted delayed onset of breast and pubic hair development, but only for African American girls. BMI did not mediate the association between Recreation and pubertal onset; however, these associations persisted when BMI was included in the models. For African American girls, but not girls from other ethnic groups, neighborhood availability of recreational outlets was associated with onset of breast and pubic hair. Given the documented risk for early puberty among African American girls, these findings have important potential implications for public health interventions related to timing of puberty and related health outcomes in adolescence and adulthood.
Optic Nerve Tumors

Primary tumors of the optic nerve include anterior visual pathway gliomas and optic nerve sheath meningiomas. Both are relatively rare lesions that result in significant visual morbidity. Together they account for less than 4 % of all orbital tumors. There has been controversy about the natural history and appropriate management of these lesions, resulting from small sample sizes and short follow-up periods. Other tumors, such as gangliogliomas and primary lymphomas, have also been described but are extremely rare.
Relapse of Legionnaires' Disease in a Renal Transplant Recipient

We describe a 44-year-old man who recently received a cadaveric renal transplant and had a relapse of Legionnaires' disease after an appropriate course of therapy. The relapse occurred within two weeks after completion of a three-week course of therapy with erythromycin stearate. A transbronchial biopsy specimen was positive for Legionella pneumophila by direct immunofluorescence, although the Dieterle silver impregnation stain was negative. The patient responded to a repeated course of erythromycin for an additional 21 days, and no further sequelae or relapses have been noted. The importance of early rapid diagnostic modalities in the immunocompromised patient is emphasized, and the need to consider the possibility of relapse after effective therapy is warranted. ( Arch Intern Med 140:833-834, 1980)
Inflammation takes on Alzheimer disease.

Accumulation of Aβ peptide in the brains of individuals with Alzheimer disease leads to an inflammatory response. New data suggest that this response may not always be harmful.
Interaction of linear manno-oligosaccharides with three mannose-specific bulb lectins. Comparison with mannose/glucose-binding lectins.

Abstract Three new mannose-binding lectins, isolated from daffodil (NPA), amaryllis (HHA), and snowdrop (GNA) bulbs, are capable of precipitating with a linear mannopentaose (Manα1-3Manα1-3Manα1-3Manα1-2Man). NPA and HHA reacted strongly with the mannopentaose whereas GNA gave a precipitate only at concentrations > 500 μM. A phosphate group at C-6 of the nonreducing terminal mannosyl group prevented precipitation in all three cases. The reduced (NaBH 4 ) mannopentaose, Man 4 Man-ol, did not precipitate with GNA or NPA, but was active with HHA. This activity was lost when Man 4 Man-ol was converted (NaIO 4 then NaBH 4 ; mild acid hydrolysis of the reduced product) into trisaccharide derivatives. With α- d -Man p -OMe the three lectins gave UV difference spectra having large positive peaks at 292–293 and 283–284 nm, and a small positive peak at 275 nm, characteristic of tryptophanyl and tyrosyl residues. The association constants for the interaction with α- d -Man p -OMe were very low (NPA, 86; HHA, 66; and GNA, 41 M −1 ), but the lectins bound methyl (1 → 3)-α-mannobioside with increased affinity ( K for NPA 540, for HHA 2400, and for GNA 200 M −1 ). The bulb lectins lack binding sites for hydrophobic ligands, as judged by their failure to interact with the fluorescent probes 8-anilino-1-naphthalensulfonic acid (ANS) and 6- p -toluidino-2-naphthalenesulfonic acid (TNS).
The effects of fixed-time and contingent schedules of negative reinforcement on compliance and aberrant behavior

Prior research has suggested that fixed-time (FT) schedules of reinforcement do not necessarily preclude the acquisition of appropriate behavior (e.g., mands) when combined with differential reinforcement (DRA). These studies also note that dense FT schedules are more likely to interfere with DRA packages than lean FT schedules. In the current investigation, we examined whether similar findings would occur with FT schedules of negative reinforcement. Schedule analyses were conducted with two participants following functional analyses that identified escape from task demands as the maintaining variable for problem behavior. Differential negative reinforcement of alternative behavior (DNRA) was implemented first to establish behavioral control (decreased problem behavior and increased compliance). Breaks (negative reinforcement) were then concurrently delivered on a FT basis under either dense (at a greater rate than that obtained during DNRA alone) or lean (at a lower rate than that obtained during DNRA) reinforcement schedules. In general, results showed that FT escape did not preclude compliance when the FT schedule was lean, but treatment gains were significantly disrupted when dense FT schedules were superimposed.