cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A note on H ∞ system identification with probabilistic apriori information

This paper presents an analysis of H∞ system identification where the apriori information given on the unknown system to be identified is described probabilistically. The H∞ system identification problem concerns the construction of a linear shift invariant exponentially stable system from a combination of apriori and experimental information. The goal is to construct both a nominal system and an explicit quantification of model uncertainty in the H∞ norm utilising the apriori and experimental information. The experimental information assumed available in this paper is a set of corrupted point frequency estimates of the unknown system. The apriori information consists of a probability measure specifying the probability of bonds on the norm of the derivative of the unknown system. The problem formulation tion is given for this probabilistic setting with the error criterion allowing a probabilistic tolerance of identification to be given. it is shown that the probabilistic H∞ problem is equivalent to a worst case problem that is constructed from the probabilistic one. This construction allows near optimal algorithms to be constructed for the probabilistic H∞, identification problem.
A modified provisional stenting approach to coronary bifurcation lesions: clinical application of the "jailed-balloon technique".

Objectives: To demonstrate the application of a novel provisional side branch (SB) stenting strategy for coronary bifurcation lesions using a “jailed-balloon” technique (JBT). Background: Adverse cardiac events are higher for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) of bifurcation lesions. Recent studies support the use of provisional SB stenting, but a risk of SB closure and a higher rate of target lesion revascularization (TLR) remain important limitations. Methods: From December 2007 to August 2010, 100 patients with 102 bifurcation lesions underwent PCI using the JBT. Baseline and postprocedural quantitative coronary angiography (QCA) analysis were performed. Procedural and immediate clinical outcomes were reviewed. Results: The majority of patients presented with acute coronary syndrome (68%) and had Medina class 1,1,1 bifurcation lesions (91%). TIMI 3 flow was established in 100% of main branch and 99% of SB lesions. QCA revealed preservation of the bifurcation angle after PCI (pre-PCI: 59.6 ± 30.0; post-PCI: 63.3 ± 26.8, P = 0.41). Nine patients (9%) had lesions that required rewiring and two patients (2%) required provisional stenting of the SB. SB loss occurred in one patient (1%). The jailed-balloon or wire was not entrapped during any PCI. One patient (1%) suffered a periprocedural myocardial infarction (MI). Conclusions: Provisional stenting of complex coronary bifurcation lesions using a JBT is associated with a high procedural success rate, improved SB patency, and a low rate of immediate cardiac events. Further study is warranted to evaluate the role of JBT in improving long-term clinical outcomes in PCI of complex bifurcation lesions. (J Interven Cardiol 2012;25:289–296)
An evidence-based review of edoxaban and its role in stroke prevention in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation is the most common arrhythmia in the elderly. It is responsible for significant morbidity and mortality from cardioembolic complications like stroke. As a result, atrial fibrillation patients are risk-stratified using the CHADS2 or CHA2DS2-VASc scoring systems. Those at intermediate-to-high risk have traditionally been treated with therapeutic anticoagulation with warfarin for stroke prevention. Although effective, warfarin use is fraught with multiple concerns, such as a narrow therapeutic window, drug-drug and drug-food interactions, and excessive bleeding. Novel oral anticoagulant agents have recently become available as viable alternatives for warfarin therapy. Direct thrombin inhibitor dabigatran and factor Xa inhibitors like rivaroxaban and apixaban have already been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for stroke prevention in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. Edoxaban is the latest oral direct factor Xa inhibitor studied in the largest novel oral anticoagulant trial so far: ENGAGE AF-TIMI 48. Treatment with a 30 mg or 60 mg daily dose of edoxaban was found to be noninferior to dose-adjusted warfarin in reducing the rate of stroke and systemic embolism in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation, with a lower incidence of bleeding complications and cardiovascular deaths. Edoxaban was recently reviewed by an FDA advisory committee and recommended as a stroke-prophylaxis agent. Once approved, it promises to provide another useful alternative to warfarin therapy.
Authors of Keynote Papers: Satori Hachisuka

Summary form only given. This lecture will introduce the world's first method of detecting driver's drowsiness level from the facial expression. The motivation is to realize the novel safety system which can detect the driver's slight drowsiness and keep the driver awake while driving. The brain wave, especially alpha wave, is commonly used as the drowsiness index. However, it is not suitable for the in-vehicle system since it is measured with electrodes or sensors worn over the head. We precisely investigated the relationship between the change of brain wave and other drowsiness indexes that can be measured without any contact; drowsiness level evaluated from facial expression, low-frequency power content of eye-movement, fluctuation of heart rate, and distance of lane deviation from the center. This lecture will show you a process how we found the features of drowsiness from human and developed the method of drowsiness detection without any contact sensors.
Bottom Feeding and Beyond: How the Premaxillary Protrusion of Cypriniforms Allowed for a Novel Kind of Suction Feeding

While much of the functional work on suction feeding has involved members of Acanthopterygii, an earlier cypriniform radiation led to over 3200 species filling nearly every freshwater trophic niche. Within the great majority of acanthomorph clades that have been investigated suction feeding and the underlying morphology responsible for the generation of rapid suction have been largely conserved. This conserved feeding-apparatus is often associated with increasing the force experienced by the prey item, thus making a strike on elusive prey more effective. Cypriniforms' trophic anatomy is comprised of a number of novelties used for benthic feeding, which characterized early members of this clade. The modified cypriniform structure of the oral jaws represents a situation in which a particular type of suction feeding allowed for probing the benthos with a more functionally maneuverable anatomy. Requisite evolutionary modifications included origin and elongation of a median kinethmoid, duplications of certain divisions of the muscles of the adductor mandibulae, and origin of a dorsal, intra-buccal muscular palatal organ used in winnowing detritus. The elongated kinethmoid (coupled with modified adductor muscles) allowed for a type of premaxillary protrusion that decoupled the upper and lower jaws, enabled premaxillary protrusions with a closed mouth, and facilitated benthic feeding by increasing functional flexibility. The resultant flow of fluid generated by cypriniforms is also quite flexible, with multiple instances of peak flow in a single feeding event. This greatly modified morphology allowed for a degree of kinematic maneuverability not seen within most acanthomorphs. Later cypriniform radiations into piscivorous, insectivorous, or planktivorous feeding guilds were associated with shortening of the kinethmoid and with simplified morphology of the adductor, likely involving an emphasis on ram feeding. Although this suite of morphological novelties seemingly originated within the context of benthic feeding, with minimal modifications these anatomical features were later coopted during radiations into different functional niches.
Anti-prion activity generated by a novel vaccine formulation.

Abstract Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is a transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE) of domestic and wild cervids in North America. To address possible prevention regimens for CWD, we have used a mouse model system and the Rocky Mountain Laboratory (RML) mouse-adapted scrapie prion strain to screen efficacy of potential vaccine candidates. Three peptides derived from the primary amino acid sequence of the prion protein were conjugated to blue carrier protein (BCP) and formulated in an adjuvant containing M. avium subsp. avium . CL57/BL6 mice were vaccinated and boosted with 50 μg of the carrier protein–peptide conjugate formulation; all vaccines produced a humoral immune response as measured by ELISA. Disease challenge with the RML scrapie prion strain revealed anti-prion activity was generated by the vaccine formulations as measured by a delay in clinical disease onset and prolonged survivorship.
Approval Program Timing Study: Baker & Taylor vs Blackwell North America

A study of two approval program dealers was conducted by the Collection Development Department at California State University, Los Angeles. The purpose of the study was to compare the length of time it takes for each dealer to supply current American imprints to the library after publication, using a predetermined set of subject guidelines. While the timeliness of the materials supplied was the primary purpose of the study, other factors, such as number of titles supplied under the same set of subject guidelines, discount, charges for postage and handling, etc., were also considered. Based on these findings, a determination was to be made as to which dealer would supply approval program materials to the library in the future.
A cell biological view of Toll-like receptor function: regulation through compartmentalization

An emerging paradigm in innate immune signalling is that cell biological context can influence the outcome of a ligand-receptor interaction. In this Review we discuss how Toll-like receptor (TLR) activation and signal transduction are regulated by subcellular compartmentalization of receptors and downstream signalling components. In particular, we focus on the functional specialization of TLRs in the endosomal system. We discuss recent studies that illustrate how basic aspects of the cellular machinery contribute to TLR function and regulation. This emerging area of research will provide important information on how immune signal transduction networks depend on (and in some cases influence) the generic regulators that organize eukaryotic cells.
Use of Direct Versus Indirect Preparation Data for Assessing Risk Associated with Airborne Exposures at Asbestos-contaminated Sites

At asbestos-contaminated sites, exposure assessment requires measurement of airborne asbestos concentrations; however, the choice of preparation steps employed in the analysis has been debated vigorously among members of the asbestos exposure and risk assessment communities for many years. This study finds that the choice of preparation technique used in estimating airborne amphibole asbestos exposures for risk assessment is generally not a significant source of uncertainty. Conventionally, the indirect preparation method has been less preferred by some because it is purported to result in false elevations in airborne asbestos concentrations, when compared to direct analysis of air filters. However, airborne asbestos sampling in non-occupational settings is challenging because non-asbestos particles can interfere with the asbestos measurements, sometimes necessitating analysis via indirect preparation. To evaluate whether exposure concentrations derived from direct versus indirect preparation techniques d...
DHEA-S, IGF-I, and IGFBP-1 and -3 Relationships to Insulin and Body Fat in Normal Prepubertal Caucasian, African-American, and Hispanic Girls † 427

Although premature adrenarche (defined as precocious appearance of pubic or axillary hair) is more common in African-American girls, ethnic differences in adrenal androgen secretion in normal prepubertal girls have not been described. We examined ethnic differences in circulating serum levels of DHEA-S, IGF-1, IGFBP-1 and -3, and insulin in healthy prepubertal [Tanner stage I] Caucasian, African-American and Hispanic girls. Body fat was determined by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Forty-seven girls (19 Caucasian, 9 African-American, 19 Hispanic) between the ages of 7.5 and 9 yr were enrolled. Age, weight, height, insulin, glucose-insulin ratios, and IGFBP-3 levels were not statistically different among groups. Body mass index and% fat were higher in Hispanic girls (p<0.017; p<0.004, respectively) but not different between African-Americans and Caucasians. Despite similar insulin levels among groups, IGFBP-1 levels were higher in Caucasian than in Hispanic (p<0.002) and African-American (p<0.0001) girls. DHEA-S levels in the African-Americans were twofold higher than in the Caucasians(p<0.004), despite the fact that African-Americans and Caucasians were equally lean (16.1% vs 19.4% body fat; p=0.138), whereas those of Hispanics were intermediate. Plasma IGF-I levels also were higher in African-Americans than in Caucasians (319 ng/ml vs 219 ng/ml; p<0.02) while no significant difference was seen between the Caucasians and Hispanics. Conclusions: (1) In African-American girls, DHEA-S concentrations are higher than those of Caucasian girls, even without clinical evidence of premature adrenarche; (2) These ethnic differences are unrelated to body fat or insulin resistance; (3) Elevated DHEA-S and IGF-I levels in African-American girls may be indicative of an influence not only of gonadal but also of adrenal steroids on the GH/IGF-I axis.
A miniature forward-imaging optical coherence tomography (OCT) probe

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has had a tremendous global health impact upon the current ability to diagnose, treat, and monitor multiple eye diseases. We propose that a miniature forward-imaging OCT probe can be developed for real-time ocular imaging. A miniature 25-gauge forward-imaging probe was designed and developed to use with an 850 nm spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SDOCT) system (Bioptigen, Inc. Durham, NC). Imaging parameters were determined. Ocular tissues were examined with the miniature OCT probe. A miniature SDOCT probe was developed with the scanning driver within the hand piece. The SDOCT fiber-scanning probe maximally transmitted power of 800 μW. The scanning range was 3 mm when the probe tip was held 3 to 5 mm from the tissue surface. The axial resolution was 6 μm and the lateral resolution was 30-35 μm. The 25-gauge forward-imaging probe was used to image cellophane tape, eyelid skin, cornea, conjunctiva, sclera, iris, anterior lens, anterior chamber angle, retina, retinal tear, retinal detachment, optic nerve head, and optic nerve sheath. Images obtained from the miniature probe appeared similar to images from a 3 mm scanning range of a commercial large handheld OCT probe (Bioptigen, Inc. Durham, NC).
Bediuzzaman Said Nursi's Ethics of Non-Violence: Implications for Christian-Muslim Relations Today

: Islam, unlike any other major religious tradition, is often associated with violence and extremism. This essay explores some of the elements of Bediuzzaman Said Nursi's (1876/77–1960) ethics of non-violence and the historical context within which it evolved and was put into practice. It will become evident that Bediuzzaman's advocacy of non-violence is rooted in a qur’anic framework by providing a holistic reading of scripture. This takes into consideration major qur’anic ethical virtues of compassion and mercy and a re-interpretation of jihad suitable with those. Introducing the general Christian audience to these Muslim advocates remains crucial in fostering Christian-Muslim relations.
Impacts of Bus Rapid Transit Stations on Surrounding Single-Family Home Values: Study of East Busway in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

The development of bus rapid transit (BRT) systems is relatively recent in the United States; however, several systems are operating and many more are being planned. More comprehensive understanding is needed of the relationship between land use and BRT, particularly in comparison with other fixed-guideway modes. This paper describes an effort to quantify the impacts of BRT stations on the values of surrounding single-family homes. The hypothesis is that BRT stations have an impact on property value that is commensurate with rail transit projects, considering the level and permanence of services and facilities. To test that hypothesis, a hedonic regression model was used to estimate the impact of distance to a BRT station on the fair market value of single-family homes. Because many BRT systems operating in the United States may be too new to find evidence of capitalization into property values, data from East Busway, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, one of the oldest operating BRT systems in the country, was used. Decreasing marginal effects were found: moving from 101 to 100 ft from a station increases property value approximately $18.90; moving from 1,001 to 1,000 ft increases property value by approximately $2.71. The results shown in this paper are valid only for the data used in Pittsburgh's case. As more BRT systems continue to operate in the United States, this method should be applied to other cities and other types of properties to gain a better understanding of the general impacts of proximity to BRT.
The Next Best Thing to Knowing Someone Who is Usually Right

Mean-variance analysis is widely used for portfolio allocation decisions. The use of historical data for the inputs may be inferior to using informed estimates that reflect one9s beliefs about the current financial environment. In this article we show that portfolios based on expert opinion can outperform portfolios based on historical data, and that even better performance can be achieved by taking into account regression to the mean.
Neuro-cognitively inspired haptic user interfaces

Haptic systems and devices are a recent addition to multimodal systems. These devices have widespread applications such as surgical simulations, medical and procedural training, scientific visualizations, assistive and rehabilitative devices for individuals who have physical or neurological impediments and assistive devices for individuals who are blind. While the potential of haptics in natural human machine interaction is undisputable, the realization of such means is still a long way ahead. There are considerable research challenges to development of natural haptic interfaces. The study of human tactile abilities is a recent endeavor and many of the available systems still do not incorporate the domain knowledge of psychophysics, biomechanics and neurological elements of haptic perception. Development of smart and effective haptic interfaces and devices requires extensive studies that link perceptual phenomena with measurable parameters and incorporation of such domain knowledge in the engineering of haptic interfaces. This paper presents design, development and usability testing of a neuro-cognitively inspired haptic user interface for individuals who are blind. The proposed system design is inspired by neuro-cognitive basis of haptic perception and incorporates the computational aspects and requirements of multimodal information processing system. Usability testing of the system suggests that a biologically inspired haptic user interfaces may form a powerful paradigm for haptic user interface design.
Kinetics and mechanism of the isotopic NO−2 exchange with trans-dinitrobis(2-amino-2-methyl-3-butanoneoximato)cobalt(III), [Co(AO)2H(NO2)]0, in aqueous media

The rate of isotopic NO−2 exchange of [Co(AO)2H(NO2)2]0 with free NO−2 in water solution has been shown to be first order with respect to the complex, independent of [NO−2] and essentially pH independent. The half-life being about 16 hr at 40.0 °C. Both nitro groups are equivalent. The rate constant is unchanged over the pH range 5–8 and is without major ionic strength effects. Likewise k(exchange) was unchanged in D2O, or pure methanol and visible light has no effect. With free Co2+ or amineoxime ligand present during exchange no change in rate was observed. The activation parameters for exchange are ΔH≠ = 29.4 kcal mol−1 ± 0.5 kcal mol−1 and ΔS≠ = +13.0 ± 0.1 cal K−1. The results indicate that the mechanism of isotopic exchange is probably intramolecular and utilizes a reactive nitrito intermediate.
S3-3 H2S in sepsis and shock – A story of mice and men

Role of H 2 S in systemic inflammation and shock is incompletely understood. To date, numerous conflicting data regarding the pro- and anti-inflammatory effects of exogenous and endogenous sulfide have been reported. Although the reasons for these conflicting results are likely multifactorial, purity and/or specificity of chemical H 2 S donors and inhibitors have been questioned. Furthermore, congenital deficiency of cystathionine γ -lyase (CSE) that produces H 2 S endogenously alters levels of other enzymes that affect production and metabolism of H 2 S, making interpretation of experimental results difficult. To elucidate the role of H 2 S in sepsis and shock, we measured levels of H 2 S and its metabolites in mice and human patients with varying degrees of sepsis using the monobromobimane (MBB)-based HPLC method. We observed that endotoxemia decreased plasma sulfide levels in mice. Levels of sulfide metabolites are markedly altered in septic patients. Breathing H 2 S attenuates endotoxin-induced systemic inflammation and improves survival in mice by restoring sulfide and markedly increasing thiosulfate levels. We further demonstrate that administration of sodium thiosulfate (STS) per se dose-dependently improves survival rate of mice after endotoxin challenge. These results are corroborated by our recent findings that congenital deficiency or chemical inhibition of CSE increases thiosulfate levels in the liver and prevents acute liver failure at least in part by augmentation of antioxidant and anti-apoptotic defense mechanisms. Taken together, evidence suggests a complex role of H 2 S in systemic inflammation and shock, that warrant further studies.
ACM SIGPLAN international workshop on programming language and systems technologies for internet clients: (PLASTIC 2011)

Today's Internet users expect to access Internet resources using increasingly capable and ubiquitous client platforms. This trend has resulted in a wide-ranging diversification of hardware devices supporting various form factors and interaction modes, a choice of web browsers offering varying levels of performance, security and standards compliance, as well as the emergence of domain-specific uses of general-purpose Internet-related technologies, exemplified by Rich Internet Applications (RIAs) and site-specific browsers.Despite the heterogeneity, all these platforms implement a common set of standards and technologies. While the resulting high level of interoperability can be seen as a major reason for the Internet's success, its constraints can also be viewed as limiting progress in client technologies. This workshop focuses on both innovative solutions in the area of Internet client software that improves on the current state-of-the-art while respecting the confines dictated by interoperability, as well as bold, new ideas that break with the status quo.
A high-resolution linkage map of the lethal spotting locus: a mouse model for Hirschsprung disease

Mice homozygous for the lethal spotting (ls) mutation exhibit aganglionic megacolon and a white spotted coat owing to a lack of neural crest-derived enteric ganglia and melanocytes. The ls mutation disrupts the migration, differentiation, or survival of these neural crest lineages during mammalian development. A human congenital disorder, Hirschsprung disease (HSCR), is also characterized by aganglionic megacolon of the distal bowel and can be accompanied by hypopigmentation of the skin. HSCR has been attributed to multiple loci acting independently or in combination. The ls mouse serves as one animal model for HSCR, and the ls gene may represent one of the loci responsible for some cases of HSCR in humans. This study uses 753 N2 progeny from a combination of three intersubspecific backcrosses to define the molecular genetic linkage map of the ls region and to provide resources necessary for positional cloning. Similar to some cases of HSCR, the ls mutation acts semidominantly, its phenotypic effects dependent upon the presence of modifier genes segregating in the crosses. We have now localized the ls mutation to a 0.8-cM region between the D2Mit113 and D2Mit73/D2Mit174 loci. Three genes, endothelin-3 (Edn3), guanine nucleotide-binding protein alpha-stimulating polypeptide 1 (Gnas), and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (Pck1) were assessed as candidates for the ls mutation. Only Edn3 and Gnas did not recombine with the ls mutation. Mutational analysis of the Edn3 and Gnas genes will determine whether either gene is responsible for the neural crest deficiencies observed in ls/ls mice.
Negative Evidence and Pleistocene History: ABSTRACT

Studies of Florida, the Yucatan, and other nearby coastal areas have shown that (outside of tectonically disturbed belts), there are no Pleistocene reefs more than 10 m above present mean sea level. If interglacial times produced complete ice-cap melting, and a concomitant mean sea level rise, reef-building organisms should have flourished (a) farther north than now, and (b) higher above sea level than now. This distribution has not been found. These studies also have shown that there are no obvious large pre-Sangamon coastal deposits away from major deltas. If the Sangamon and the Holocene were typical of Pleistocene interglacial times, then classical theory requires at least 2 more such deposits (Aftonian and Yarmouth). They either are not present or, if present, are not nearly as extensive as Sangamon accumulations. Further studies of these areas have shown that there are no high flights of Pleistocene marine terraces. Those terraces within the study area commonly mapped as Pleistocene are very low features of Sangamon and Holocene age, or are higher features of Pliocene and Miocene age, or cannot be dated. Several conclusions were made from these studies. 1. The cooling which brought on late Cenozoic ice ages must have occurred in the late Tertiary, rather than in the Quaternary. 2. Melting of the full set of ice caps, during Quaternary time, was never complete, including the present. 3. Sea level, in Quaternary time, never stood much higher than it is today. 4. Aftonian and Yarmouth sea levels were (a) slightly lower than in Sangamon and Holocene time, or (b) did not maintain a position, similar to now, long enough for significant deposits to be made, or (c) maintained such a position for so long that almost all deposits were removed by erosion. 5. The next long-term trend--barring short-term fluctuations--must be one of climatic cooling and a marked drop in mean sea level. End_of_Article - Last_Page 1903------------
The North Carolina State University Libraries and the National Agricultural Library joint project on Transmission of Digitized Text: Improving access to agricultural information

The National Agricultural Library (NAL), the North Carolina State University(NCSU) Libraries, and the NCSU Computing Center are collaborating on a research and demonstration project to identify and investigate issues involved in a networked, computer‐based document delivery system for library materials. The project uses scanned images of documents to generate highly detailed, machine‐readable page images, and transmits those images through the data transmission capabilities of the NSFnet/Internet to computers located in libraries, in research areas, and on scholars' desks at agricultural research stations and extension offices throughout the United States. By using commercial, graphics‐capable, networked hardware platforms combined with commercial and public domain software, a non‐proprietary, computer‐based document delivery system should be within the reach of the land grant library community by the mid‐1990s.
Calcium Intake of Female College Nutrition Majors Compared to a Sample of Female College Non-Nutrition Majors

Abstract It was hypothesized that nutrition majors, by virtue of their interest and basic knowledge in nutrition would be more likely to adopt and practice appropriate diet behaviors compared to other health related majors. To test the hypothesis, a sample (n=53) of college, female nutrition majors were compared to a random sample (n=51) non-nutrition, female majors with respect to their calcium intake. A validated (correlation coefficient of 0.05) calcium food frequency instrument was administered to both groups. The estimated mean daily calcium intake for nutrition majors was 1267mg SD 797mg; range 360–4098mg.For non-nutrition majors the mean calcium intake was 1394mg SD 779mg, range=329–4259mg.Comparisons of calcium intake were also made on the basis of age. No significant differences in calcium intake were noted between the age groups, although the older (31+yo) group had lower mean calcium intake at 1150mg SD 570mg compared to the less than 30 yo age group with a mean of 1402 SD 760mg.The mean calcium intakes are higher among these two samples than are generally reported for larger, national surveys. This may be due to the use of a food frequency instrument to estimate calcium intake rather than a food record and/or due to the relatively small sample size with a very high standard deviation. Repetition of the study with a large sample size is recommended.
New Symbols for the Amino Acid Residues of Peptides and Proteins

A system of symbols for the amino acid residues of proteins and peptides is proposed. The symbols convey immediate meaning in chemical terms and therefore allow rapid recognition of the distribution and frequency of occurrence of the various functional groups. The system is readily adaptable to description of new amino acids and amino acid modifications.
The effects of heat damage of aluminum 6061-T6 AM-2 Mats and High Power Run-Up Anchor

Abstract Mechanical property measurements were made on used sections of mobile landing surfaces for the vertical take off and landing military aircraft. Additionally, property measurements were made on used sections of anchors used to restrain aircrafts movement during full power engine operations following maintenance. In both cases, the material used was aluminum alloy 6061 in the T6 temper. Tensile, hardness and electrical conductivity tests were performed. The landing surfaces were hollow core; the top portion showed more degradation than the bottom due to the former being in closer proximity to aircraft exhaust gases. The used anchor panels showed significant levels of mechanical degradation, falling well below SAE minimum standards.
Osteoid osteoma of the acetabular fossa: five cases treated with percutaneous resection.

Summary Background Osteoid osteoma is a painful benign osteogenic tumour for which the treatment objective is surgical resection of the nidus. The acetabular fossa is an uncommon site of involvement where surgical access can prove challenging. Materials and methods We report a case-series composed of five patients with osteoid osteoma of the acetabular fossa treated with percutaneous bone resection and drilling under computed tomography guidance. Results All five patients had an uneventful postoperative course with immediate pain relief that was sustained over time. Discussion The outcomes achieved using our percutaneous technique compare favourably with those of other percutaneous methods, most notably regarding pain relief and patient tolerance of the procedure. Conclusion Percutaneous bone resection and drilling under computed tomography guidance proved effective for the treatment of osteoid osteoma involving the acetabular fossa. Level of evidence Level IV.
Venom immunotherapy (VIT) for large local reactions (LLR) to insect stings: A pilot study☆

Abstract Rationale Patients with LLR to stings may have frequent reactions and fear systemic reactions(SR), but VIT is not recommended because their risk of SR is only 10%. We aim to investigate, in patients with previous LLR, the frequency of SR from sting challenge, and the efficacy of VIT in reducing LLR. Methods Consenting patients with a history of LLR and positive venom skin tests had an initial sting challenge while being monitored for SR (n=21). LLR >16 cm occurred in18 patients (86%), in whom VIT was started in 11 patients (3 HB, 6 YJ & 2 both) and 5 were untreated controls. All 16 patients had repeat sting challenge after 6-8 weeks. Results Skin tests did not cause LLR and were generally the same, or stronger than, those of patients with previous SRs. SR occurred in 1/21(5%) of patients stung. In treated patients the peak diameter of the LLR was reduced >30% in 78%, and >50% in 56%. The duration of the LLR was reduced >40% in 100% of the treated patients, and the time to reach the peak size was reduced >50% in 89% of patients. Controls had no change in LLR. Conclusions Patients with a history of LLR and positive venom skin tests have
On the relationship between intensity diffraction tomography and phase-contrast tomography

Diffraction tomography (DT) is a well-known method for reconstructing the complex-valued refractive index distribution of weakly scattering objects. A reconstruction theory of intensity DT (I-DT) has been proposed [Gbur and Wolf, JOSA A, 2002] that can accomplish such a reconstruction from knowledge of only the wavefield intensities on two different transverse planes at each tomographic view angle. In this work, we elucidate the relationship between I-DT and phase-contrast tomography and demonstrate that I-DT reconstruction theory contains some of the existing reconstruction algorithms for phase-contrast tomography as special cases.
Solid tumor chemotherapy: What have we to offer.

Abstract Chemotherapy has a role in the treatment of solid tumors. The proper selection of the patient and the careful development of the chemotherapy regimen are important to obtain the maximal benefit from the drugs available. Certain commercially available drugs appear to be of benefit in the palliation of patients with specific tumors. Applying this treatment a more effective, comfortable life may be obtained for these patients.
Self-Report and Behavioral Measures with Heterosocially Anxious Subjects

The present study examined two behavioral indicators, i.e., the number of initiations of conversation and the number of personal statements uttered in a brief conversation, for 26 heterosocially an...
The role of presence in virtual reality exposure therapy

A growing body of literature suggests that virtual reality is a successful tool for exposure therapy in the treatment of anxiety disorders. Virtual reality (VR) researchers posit the construct of presence, defined as the interpretation of an artificial stimulus as if it were real, to be a presumed factor that enables anxiety to be felt during virtual reality exposure therapy (VRE). However, a handful of empirical studies on the relation between presence and anxiety in VRE have yielded mixed findings. The current study tested the following hypotheses about the relation between presence and anxiety in VRE with a clinical sample of fearful flyers: (1) presence is related to in-session anxiety; (2) presence mediates the extent that pre-existing (pre-treatment) anxiety is experienced during exposure with VR; (3) presence is positively related to the amount of phobic elements included within the virtual environment; (4) presence is related to treatment outcome. Results supported presence as a factor that contributes to the experience of anxiety in the virtual environment as well as a relation between presence and the phobic elements, but did not support a relation between presence and treatment outcome. The study suggests that presence may be a necessary but insufficient requirement for successful VRE.
Barrier coats versus inert atmospheres. The elimination of oxygen inhibition in free‐radical polymerizations

The polymerization of UV-curable coatings that react by a free-radical mechanism is subject to oxygen inhibition which can be avoided by utilizing an inert atmosphere. We demonstrate that wax barrier coats used to prevent evaporation of volatile reactive monomers are equally effective in preventing oxygen inhibition. No quantitative difference is found between the degree and rate of polymerization in an inert atmosphere or with a wax barrier coating. However, when used above a given ceiling temperature, the wax barrier allows oxygen diffusion which inhibits cure.
Stabilization of Class E amplifiers with a diode network

Abstract A three-element stabilization network consisting of diode and series resonant circuit to eliminate the instabilities seen in the Class E amplifiers for all load conditions when dc supply voltage is varied over entire dynamic power and frequency ranges, has been introduced. Diode in the stabilization network is used to linearize the varactor effect seen on the output capacitance of the transistor. It stabilizes the amplifier by having minimum impact on the amplifier parameters such as output power, efficiency, and die dissipation. Two-element series resonant network in the stabilization circuit bypasses diode at the fundamental frequency and provides normal operational condition for the amplifier. The stabilization network that we introduce is practical, cost effective and unlike other stabilization networks do not require multi-element filters, and significant adjustment on the load line of the amplifier. Class E push-pull amplifier with stabilization network has been designed, simulated, constructed and then verified experimentally. It is confirmed that the stability of the amplifier is gained across entire VSWR and dynamic ranges with the implementation of the stabilization network by meeting with all other amplifier requirements such as output power, efficiency, gain, etc.
Characterization of the Ni(III) intermediate in the reaction of (1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane)nickel(II) perchlorate with KHSO5: implications to the mechanism of oxidative DNA modification.

We report the detection and characterization of the Ni(III) intermediates generated by reaction of (1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane)nickel(II) perchlorate with KHSO5. Four Ni(III) intermediates can be trapped or detected through variation in Cl- or KHSO5 concentrations. Upon oxidation of [Ni(cyclam)]2+ by 2.5 equiv of KHSO5, deprotonation of the cyclam ligand generates two red Ni(III) species with λmax = 530 nm and g⊥ = 2.20 and g|| = 2.02 or g⊥ = 2.16 and g|| = 2.01 for the axial 4-coordinate or 6-coordinate dichloride species, respectively. These forms decay to Ni(II) products via complex ligand oxidation mechanisms. The Ni(III) dichloride species can be reprotonated and subsequently binds to DNA via an outer-sphere interaction as evidenced by the inverted sign of the CD signal near 400 nm. Cumulatively, the results indicate that the Ni(III) center is coordinately saturated under excess chloride conditions but is still able to interact with DNA substrates. This suggests alternative mechanistic pathway...
Transformations of fertilizer nitrogen in soil. I. Interpretations based on chemical extractions of labelled and unlabelled nitrogen.

Five crops of oats were grown over a 14-month period on a Chester silt loam soil fertilized with N15-labelled (NH4)2SO4. All plant material from the first four crops was returned to the soil. Following a fifth crop, oat tops and roots were harvested, and the soil was subjected to repeated extractions by autoclaving in 0.01M CaCl2. The distribution of N15 and of indigenous soil N among chemical fractions of the extracts, and in the acid-soluble and acid-soluble and acid-insoluble portions of the soil residues following 0.01M CaCl2 extraction, was remarkably similar. Since appreciable equilibrations between added N15 and the more resistant forms of soil organic N is unlikely, it is postulated that fertilizer N became incorporated in newly-formed complexes, similar to those already present in the soil. This view is in harmony with the finding that percentage removals of total and N15-labelled N remained almost the same, even with recovery of approximately 55 per cent of the amounts originally present. N mineralization capacity of the soil was reduced appreciably as a result of extraction.
A comparative study of job allocation and migration in the pancake network

Pancake networks are an attractive class of Cayley graphs functioning as a viable interconnection scheme for large multi-processor systems. The hierarchy of the pancake graph allows the assignment of its special subgraphs, which have the same topological features as the original graph, to a sequence of incoming jobs. We investigate the hierarchical structure of the pancake network and derive a job allocation scheme for assigning processors to incoming jobs. An algorithm is presented for job migration. Finally, we compare the assignment scheme to those derived previously for the star network and address the shortcomings of the pancake network.
Environmentalism and Estonia's independence movement

The spirit of environmentalism generated some of the most memorable images of the eastern and central European independence movements of the late 1980s and early 1990s. In 1988, protesters formed a human chain around the Ignalina nuclear reactor in Lithuania.1 That same year, thousands of Hungarians marched through downtown Budapest to rally against their government's prospective participation in the construction of a dam on the Danube River.2 The environmental movements in the former eastern bloc marked the beginning of the end of Soviet era communism in Europe. However, many commentators have implied that environmental protest was a proxy for other, more politically explosive grievances.3 Environmentalism was decisive, it is argued, because it provided a release valve for pent‐up frustrations and repressed nationalistic ardor. Re‐examining the independence movement in Estonia, this article contends that environmentalism was not incidental to citizens’ larger aims. The specific, environmentally destructi...
Excretion of cadmium and mercury in rat saliva

Abstract The excretion of cadmium and mercury in saliva was studied in urethane-anesthetized male rats given single intravenous injections of 109CdCl2 or 203HgCl2 (0.1 or 1.0 mg divalent cation/kg). Pilocarpine (20 mg/kg, ip) was used to stimulate salivation. All doses produced a distinct and persistent increase in blood pressure (15–25 mm Hg), an increase in salivary flow rate and an increase (19–26%) in salivary gland weight. Metal levels in saliva (S) and submaxillary gland tissue (T), relative to blood (B), plasma (P), and filtrate (F) were determined. Cadmium and mercury were detected in S and T at both doses. The following relative order was apparent: S F > S P >- S B . S F ratios were >1, suggesting a concentrating effect by the salivary gland. S B and S P ratios for mercury increased with increasing dose; S B and S P ratios for cadmium decreased with increasing dose. Similar dose-related effects were apparent in the T B and T P ratios.
Spatial Labor Markets and the Distribution of Transaction Costs

Incomplete information regarding the location of job offers, their contractual conditions, and tenure prospects typifies US labor markets. Crises of spatial coordination and the allocation of labor demand and supply, amongst other issues, are argued to result from such uncertainties. Assisted-mobility and spatial job-matching programs have been promoted as solutions to problems of inadequate information. These programs, however, ignore the fact that uncertainty is part of any rule-oriented exchange process. These programs also neglect the power relations between employers and employees which structure and sustain labor-market transaction costs. The crucial issue is the distribution of transaction costs between contracting parties. These principles are applied to a recent legal case in Michigan involving interregional labor migration.
Implications of Probabilistic Stratigraphy: ABSTRACT

If stratigraphic correlation expresses the probability that samples from 2 different sections represent the same level in a known sequence of events, it can be considered to be the product of the probabilities that (a) the events defining the stratigraphic increment have been detected, (b) the true sequence of events is known, and (c) the events have been correctly identified. If the probability of correlation is to be greater than 0.90, each of the 3 factors must have a probability greater than 0.96. From this several important implications can be drawn. 1. If fossils are used to determine stratigraphic events, samples must generally have populations of hundreds of specimens. 2. The probability that a sequence of genetically unrelated events is correctly known reaches the required level only if sequence pairs are known from 6 sections and never occur in reverse order, or are known from 9 sections with 1 reversed occurrence, or from 12 sections with 2 reversed occurrences, or from 15 sections with 3 reversed occurrences, etc. 3. After 7 sections have been examined for sequences of event pairs and no reversed pairs are End_Page 623------------------------------ known, little is gained by examination of additional sections. 4. Type sections, usually considered the objective basis of chronostratigraphy, define the level of confusion which will exist in a stratigraphic system and serve only an archival function in probabilistic stratigraphy. End_of_Article - Last_Page 624------------
Sensor response monitoring in pressurized water reactors using time series modeling

Random data analysis in nuclear power reactors for purposes of process surveillance, pattern recognition and monitoring of temperature, pressure, flow and neutron sensors has gained increasing attention in view of their potential for helping to ensure safe plant operation. In this paper, application of autoregressive moving-average (ARMA) time series modeling for monitoring temperature sensor response charactersitics is presented. The ARMA model is used to estimate the step and ramp response of the sensors and the related time constant and ramp delay time. The ARMA parameters are estimated by a two-stage algorithm in the spectral domain. Results of sensor testing for an operating pressurized water reactor are presented. Since the estimation depends on the random signal characteristics, there are cases where the noise analysis approach fails to predict sensor characteristics accurately. In general, the approach is useful for sensor monitoring schemes, rather than to predict a quantitative value of the sensor response.
Goodness and Moral Twin Earth

Terry Horgan and Mark Timmons’s “Moral Twin Earth” thought experiment allegedly undercuts virtually any form of naturalist moral realism. I argue that a neo-Aristotelian conception of moral properties defeats Moral Twin Earth. Developing themes in the work of Peter Geach, Philippa Foot, and Rosalind Hursthouse, I sketch an Aristotelian moral semantics that is unique in construing terms like ‘right’ and ‘good’ exclusively as attributive adjectives that denote relational properties. On this view, moral goodness is a relational property predicated of those human beings that satisfy kind-relative criteria of goodness; i.e., morally good human beings are good qua human being. The reference of moral terms is therefore fixed by the natural properties of human beings. This account ensures that moral facts cannot differ across worlds in which the relevant natural facts do not differ and thus defeats Moral Twin Earth.