cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Visualization of the crucial step in SET-LRP

The crucial step in SET-LRP is the disproportionation of the CuX generated by activation with Cu(0) wire or powder, into nascent, extremely reactive Cu(0) nanoparticles, and CuX2. Nascent Cu(0) activates the initiator and dormant chains via a heterogeneous single-electron transfer (SET) mechanism. Here we report model reactions visualizing the disproportionation of CuBr and activation by nascent Cu(0) in protic, dipolar aprotic, and nonpolar solvents, and in protic, polar and nonpolar monomers. The nascent Cu(0) nanoparticles and the green/blue color of the solution of CuBr2/N-ligand were visible, demonstrating that disproportionation occurs under all SET-LRP and many ATRP conditions. Unexpectedly, nascent Cu(0) nanoparticles and insoluble CuBr2 were also formed via a surface disproportionation of CuBr/Me6-TREN in a range of nonpolar solvents and monomers. The effect of solvent polarity on the rate of SET activation was visualized by adding methyl 2-bromopropionate (MBP) initiator to the disproportionation mixture and monitoring the disappearance of the nascent Cu(0) nanoparticles. The consumption of nascent Cu(0) was extremely rapid in DMSO, fast in MeCN, and slower in toluene. This trend confirms the expected dependence of SET activation on solvent polarity. The enhanced stabilization of Cu(0) nanoparticles in DMSO compared to MeOH was visualized, and used to explain the synergistic solvent effect in DMSO–MeOH and other solvent–monomer mixtures. Visualization of the disproportionation and activation also explains the rate acceleration in CuX-catalyzed ATRP in polar media in which the active catalyst is most likely the extremely reactive nascent Cu(0) generated by disproportionation, and therefore, rapidly discriminates between SET-LRP and ATRP.
Advanced cervical cancer treatment in Harris County: Pilot evaluation of factors that prevent optimal therapy

Abstract Objective. To document obstacles to completing outpatient treatment faced by indigent patients with cervical cancer and compare treatment costs. Methods. A retrospective pilot case series study assessed all indigent Harris County residents referred from Lyndon Baines Johnson Hospital (LBJ) to The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center (M. D. Anderson) for advanced cervical cancer treatment between February 2001 and April 2004. Twenty-seven patients required hospital admission during the expected course of outpatient treatment and were identified as the study group. Nine patients, drawn from the same cohort but able to successfully complete the expected course of treatment as outpatients, were selected as the control group. Results. The median total treatment costs per patient in the study group ( n = 27) was $28,892 more than the median treatment costs for the patients in the control group ( n = 9) ( P = 0.01). Median number of inpatient days in the study group was 19.6. Social factors identified as significantly different between the study and control groups included transportation difficulties ( P = 0.006) and lack of social support ( P = 0.08). Additional factors identified in the study group may have social significance such as accessible local housing (11% vs. 0%, P = 0.56) and noncompliance with treatment (37% vs. 11%, P = 0.22). Conclusion. A combination of the lack of adequate methods of transportation and social support may contribute to the high cost of treating indigent patients with cervical cancer in Harris County, Texas.
Scalable hierarchical multitask learning algorithms for conversion optimization in display advertising

Many estimation tasks come in groups and hierarchies of related problems. In this paper we propose a hierarchical model and a scalable algorithm to perform inference for multitask learning. It infers task correlation and subtask structure in a joint sparse setting. Implementation is achieved by a distributed subgradient oracle and the successive application of prox-operators pertaining to groups and subgroups of variables. We apply this algorithm to conversion optimization in display advertising. Experimental results on over 1TB data for up to 1 billion observations and 1 million attributes show that the algorithm provides significantly better prediction accuracy while simultaneously beingefficiently scalable by distributed parameter synchronization.
Two Structural Equation Models: LISREL and PLS Applied to Consumer Exit-Voice Theory:

In marketing applications of structural equation models with unobservable variables, researchers have relied almost exclusively on LISREL for parameter estimation. Apparently they have been little ...
Analysis of Deoxynivalenol and Its Derivatives (Batch and Single Kernel) Using Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry

This paper describes a method for the analysis of DON and its derivatives in wheat and barley using combination gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The method has been designed for the analysis of large batch (100 g) samples and single kernels. The sensitivity of the method is 50 ppb (ng/g), and the precision in terms of percent standard deviation lies between 0.0 and 11.1. The percent recovery for 1, 5, and 10 μg/g (ppm) recovered from wheat is 97.2, 88.4 and 87.9% respectively. A comparison of methods was made between two laboratories using GC/EC and our method. There was no significant difference between the results of the two methods. The method is also applicable to 15-acetyldeoxynivalenol (15-ADON) as well as nivalenol (NIV). Standard curves constructed for DON, 15-ADON, and NIV show a linear relationship between 0.025 ng (limit of sensitivity) and 8 ng.
Demonstration of Circularization of Herpes Simplex Virus DNA Following infection Using Pulsed Field Gel Electrophoresis

Studies of the configuration of intracellular herpes simplex virus DNA have been limited by the inability of restriction enzyme analyses to distinguish circular DNA from other configurations. To address this issue, we used pulsed-field gel electrophoresis of virus-infected, cycloheximide-treated cells and detected accumulation of viral DNA that failed to migrate out of the sample wells of the gels. This DNA lacked terminal restriction fragments and could be converted to unit-length linear species by gamma-irradiation, demonstrating the circularization of viral DNA following infection.
Fluorescence probing in micellar solutions: organic additives in micelles of sodium dodecylsulphate

Abstract The changes induced in the structure of micelles of sodium dodecylsulphate when alkanes, alcohols and ketones are solubilized were studied by steady state fluorescence probing methods. Important information concerning micellar properties, such as size, micropolarity, interfacial charge density etc., obtained from fluorescence measurements are presented and some general trends are discussed.
Cortical projections to the red nucleus and the brain stem in the Rhesus monkey.

Summary The ascending and descending projections from the red nucleus and the cortical projections to the red nucleus were studied in a series of Rhesus monkeys by means of retrograde and antegrade degeneration techniques. In this material the cortical projections to the other brain stem cell groups were studied also. It was found that when the cortical projections are viewed in a temporofrontal sequence, their terminal distribution in the brain stem tends to shift from dorsal to ventral and medial. Thus, the temporal, occipital, and caudal parietal areas project primarily to the superior colliculus and to auditory nuclei. The parietal, postcentral and precentral areas project to the dorsolateral mesencephalic tegmentum and the somatic sensory cell groups in the lower brain stem. The precentral and the rostrally adjacent frontal areas provide the bulk of the projections to the remainder of the tegmentum throughout the brain stem including the red nucleus. These cortical areas also give rise to projections to the deep layers of the superior colliculus and in addition represent the main source of the cortical projections to the center median-parafascicular complex. The cortical projections to the pars magnocellularis and the pars parvicellularis of the red nucleus were found to be topically organized and to possess a differential cortical origin. The pars magnocellularis, which appeared to be the main source of the rubrospinal projections, received cortical projections primarily from the precentral gyrus. The pars parvicellularis, which seems to project rostrally at least in its anterior half received projections primarily from the precentral gyrus, the rostrally adjacent frontal areas and the supplementary motor area. The pars parvicellularis, in addition, received some limited projections from the postcentral and parietal areas. The functional significance of the above organization of the cortical projections to the brain stem has been discussed in the context of the organization of the intercortical projections and of the ascending and descending projections of the brain stem.
Thin and open vessel windows for intra-vital fluorescence imaging of murine cochlear blood flow

Normal microvessel structure and function in the cochlea is essential for maintaining the ionic and metabolic homeostasis required for hearing function. Abnormal cochlear microcirculation has long been considered an etiologic factor in hearing disorders. A better understanding of cochlear blood flow (CoBF) will enable more effective amelioration of hearing disorders that result from aberrant blood flow. However, establishing the direct relationship between CoBF and other cellular events in the lateral wall and response to physio-pathological stress remains a challenge due to the lack of feasible interrogation methods and difficulty in accessing the inner ear. Here we report on new methods for studying the CoBF in a mouse model using a thin or open vessel-window in combination with fluorescence intra-vital microscopy (IVM). An open vessel-window enables investigation of vascular cell biology and blood flow permeability, including pericyte (PC) contractility, bone marrow cell migration, and endothelial barrier leakage, in wild type and fluorescent protein-labeled transgenic mouse models with high spatial and temporal resolution. Alternatively, the thin vessel-window method minimizes disruption of the homeostatic balance in the lateral wall and enables study CoBF under relatively intact physiological conditions. A thin vessel-window method can also be used for time-based studies of physiological and pathological processes. Although the small size of the mouse cochlea makes surgery difficult, the methods are sufficiently developed for studying the structural and functional changes in CoBF under normal and pathological conditions.
A search engine for systems management

This paper describes a search facility for systems management that was designed and implemented to simplify the management of large IT infrastructures. As the complexity of data centers or telecommunication networks increases, managing such infrastructures involves large amounts of data originating from many and diverse sources. In a typical IT management infrastructure, we find many management components such as commercial and open source products (e.g., for monitoring); custom, be-spoke software (e.g., a home-grown inventory database) as well as additional conventional (e.g., calendar) and unconventional (e.g., Web forums, blogs) data sources. The amount of information and the number of tools that are at the disposal of the system operator for management tasks are both wide-ranging and overwhelming. Finding the set of information and tools that is relevant to solve a given problem is a challenge, and typically requires expertise in how to extract data from the available data sources and how to use that extracted data effectively. A search facility that can locate data and tools is beneficial to systems management, but to maximize its impact, it needs to address the heterogeneity of data and data sources; provide task-focused, structured and enriched results, and be both scalable and cost-effective in the dynamic and changing environment of today's IT infrastructures. This paper describes such a system, called Fusio, that provides a search capability based on a loose coupling of heterogeneous, systems-management-related data in an IT environment. Fusio is based on the Semantic Web and traditional information-retrieval technologies. Tools such as Fusio are useful for system operators in carrying out tasks, such as problem resolution, where pointers to related information and tools can be quickly found to speed up the task. They are also useful for training purposes, e.g., as a reference to available data and tools. The paper describes the architecture of the search facility and the prototype implementation that is now being deployed in a test environment.
The exchange transfer reaction Al27(N14, Mg27)O14

Abstract The thick target yield was measured for the reaction Al 27 (N 14 ,Mg 27 )O 14 , which may be described as a simultaneous transfer of a neutron from one nucleus and a proton from the other. Mg 27 was chemically separated and thick target yields were measured by absolute γ-counting. A second aluminium foil behind the target was used to determine the amount of Mg 27 produced by neutrons in the target. The ratio of front to back foil Mg 27 yield was 1.54: 1.00. Thick targets of ZnO were used to measure the yield of O 16 (N 14 ,3p)Mg 27 . The cross section at 27.6 MeV was found to be 110 μb. The yield of Mg 27 in the 10 A oxide layer of the special aluminium foil targets was estimated to be 1.5 % of the total yield. The thick target yield of 9.45 min Mg 27 , in aluminium, measured at 27.6 MeV incident energy, was found to be 13.6×10 −12 per incident nitrogen ion after correction for neutron-induced Mg 27 . The cross section is estimated to be 2.2±1.0 μb . Mg 27 cannot be produced by the evaporation of light particles as in Al 27 (N 14 ,3α2p)Mg 27 . Other possible mechanisms for the production of Mg 27 are examined and their cross sections are estimated.
Photochemical Generation of Methane within NO−Ethene Heteroclusters†

Multiphoton ionization time-of-flight mass spectroscopy has been used to study heterogeneous cluster ions containing NO and ethene. As previously noted in the literature for other NO clusters, NO-ethene heterogeneous cluster ions show a tendency to form even-electron species. In addition to this effect, we also observe a number of ion-molecule reactions that occur within the heterogeneous clusters. These reactions lead to cluster ion series which contain new molecular species. Deuterium isotope experiments explicitly indicate that both CH4 and NO2 are formed as cluster ion products. We speculate that the methane formation occurs via this reaction within the photoionized cluster: {C2H4}m+1{NO}n+1{NO + } f {C2H4}m{NO}n{CH4 + } + N2O + CO.
Effects of uranium on rabbit renal tubules.

Abstract Following an earlier report of effects of uranium on proximal tubules in rabbit kidney, the present results define lesions caused by intravenous administration of 0.2 mg of uranium per kilogram of body weight on functions of more distal portions of the nephron. Depression of free-water clearance during water diuresis, decreased water conservation during hydropenia, and dissipation of the normally high tissue sodium concentration in the renal medulla all point to inhibition of sodium reabsorption from the ascending limb of Henle's loop. More distally, effects are seen on sodium and water reabsorption under stop-flow conditions. On the other hand, distal potassium secretion, as well as the normal impermeability of collecting duct epithelium to urea in the absence of ADH, remain unaffected. Damage to the nephron clearly occurs beyond the proximal tubule, previously believed to be the major site of attack of uranium on the rabbit nephron.
862 POST COUNSELING REPRODUCTION IN COUPLES WITH A CYSTIC FIBROSIS (CF) CHILD

Reproduction in 44 couples with a CF child was compared to that of the general USA population. Based on race, maternal age, parental occupation & education, & sex-sibship order of the affected child (AC), each of 22 of the CF couples also was matched with 1 of 22 couples having either a Down Synd. (DS) or a neural tube defect (NT) child & 1 of 22 couples having a cerebral palsey (CP) child. By religion, ½ of CF parents and ¼ of DS/NT & CP parents were Roman Catholic. All couples were observed for at least 3 yrs. after dx of their affected child (AC) and recurrent risk (RR) counseling; ie, for: CF RR 25%, no prenatal dx (PD); DS/NT RR 2/6%, PD available; CP RR <0.5%, no PD. When the AC was the 1st born, almost 60% of all the CF couples initiated another pregnancy (similar to the behavior of the USA population) compared to ~27% of DS/NT & CP couples (by X2, p<0.001). When the AC had a sib, further reproduction was curtailed in all 3 types of families compared to the USA population. These data, like others, suggest little correlation between reproductive behavior and RR or availability of PD; but do suggest an effect of influences revolving about parental perception of the AC within a context of their “ideal” for sibship size (the average being 2 in the USA). If the birth of a 1st born CF child seems not to deter reproduction, future development of prospective CF gene carrier testing with counseling of at risk couples is unlikely to do so either; except, perhaps, to encourage use of PD of CF in the fetus when a reliable technique for that purpose should also become available.
VCR indexing for fast event matching for highly-overlapping range predicates

Fast matching of events against a large number of range predicates is important for many applications. We present a novel VCR indexing scheme for highly-overlapping 2D range predicates. VCR stands for virtual construct rectangle. Each predicate is decomposed into one or more VCRs, which are then considered to be activated. The predicate ID is then stored in the ID lists associated with these activated VCRs. Event matching is conceptually simple. For each event point, the search result is stored in the ID lists associated with the activated VCRs that cover the event point. However, it is computationally nontrivial to identify the activated covering VCRs. We define a covering VCR set for each event point and present an algorithm for fast event matching. Simulations are conducted to study the performance of VCR indexing.
Neutron Beta Decay in a Strong Magnetic Field

The $\ensuremath{\beta}$ decay of a neutron in a strong quantizing magnetic field is studied by making use of the exact Dirac wave function for the electron in a magnetic field of arbitrary strength. The general conclusion is that the lifetime is unaffected by the magnetic field for $Hl{10}^{12}$ G. For $Hg{10}^{12}$ G, the lifetime in a vacuum is appreciably decreased. This conclusion is still valid when the decay takes place in a degenerate electron gas at densities lower than ${10}^{6}$ g/${\mathrm{cm}}^{3}$. At higher densities, the lifetime in a magnetic field tends to reach the value in the absence of the field, for any field strength.
First evidence of autotriploidization in sterlet (Acipenser ruthenus)

Polyploidization has played an important role in vertebrate evolution. Acipenseridae bring clear examples of polyploidy ancestry and, also, polyploidization seems to be an ongoing process in these fishes. In the present study, the genetic origin of six triploid specimens morphologically determined as Acipenser ruthenus from commercial aquaculture was analyzed using a combination of mitochondrial and nuclear markers. A further five successive statistical analyses including median joining of mitochondrial DNA control region sequences, principal coordinate analysis (PCA), factorial correspondence analysis (FCA), STRUCTURE assignation, and NewHybrids status determination for microsatellite data were applied for the clarification of the origin of one extra chromosome set added in these triploids genomes. Although interspecific hybridization had been suggested as a source of these triploids, the statistical analyses showed that the investigated triploids originate from autotriploidization rather than from interspecific hybridization. Therefore, we conclude that a combination of molecular markers with suitable statistical analyses should be used to verify the origin of unusual ploidy level. Evidently, such an approach is critically essential in aquaculture, where interspecific hybridization is very common and usually detected by changes in ploidy levels only.
An Experimental and Theoretical Study of Transient Pressure Drop in Two-Phase Condensing Flows

This paper presents the results of an experimental and theoretical investigation of the pressure drop associated with transient two-phase condensing flows involving complete condensation. Utilizing the system mean void fraction model, and the similarity relationships associated with it, an analytical prediction of the transient pressure drop is possible, including a simplified closed-form version. The capability of the proposed theory is demonstrated by comparison with experimental measurements of the transient pressure drop in a horizontal tube condenser following an exponential-type change in the inlet mass flow rate. Good agreement is shown to exist between the predicted and experimental results.
Computer interpretation of process and instrumentation drawings

Abstract This paper describes a proof-of-concept computer system capable of interpreting graphical component connectivity in Process and Instrumentation Drawings (P&IDs). The input drawing is a CAD file in DXF format (AutoCAD Release 12, Advanced Tools Manual , Autodesk Inc., 1993, Chapter 6). Drawing features are considered to be pipes or symbolic entities with geometrically constrained attachment ports. A low-level image processing front-end is currently being developed to support the interpretation of drawings in vector format from scanned paper P&IDs. A hierarchical data structure is used to enable recognition of components in collinear and circuit complexes.
On the modulation equations and stability of periodic generalized Korteweg–de Vries waves via Bloch decompositions

In this paper, we consider the relation between Evans-function-based approaches to the stability of periodic travelling waves and other theories based on long-wavelength asymptotics together with Bloch wave expansions. In previous work it was shown by rigorous Evans function calculations that the formal slow modulation approximation resulting in the linearized Whitham averaged system accurately describes the spectral stability to long-wavelength perturbations. To clarify the connection between Bloch-wave-based expansions and Evans-function-based approaches, we reproduce this result without reference to the Evans function by using direct Bloch expansion methods and spectral perturbation analysis. One of the novelties of this approach is that we are able to calculate the relevant Bloch waves explicitly for arbitrary finite-amplitude solutions. Furthermore, this approach has the advantage of being applicable in the more general multi-periodic setting where no conveniently computable Evans function has yet been devised.
Structure-function relationships in rat brainstem subnucleus interpolaris: III. Local circuit neurons.

Intracellular recording, electrical stimulation, receptive field mapping, and intracellular injection of horseradish peroxidase were used to assess the response properties, collateral projections, and morphology of 44 local circuit (LC) neurons in the subnucleus interpolaris (SpVi) of the trigeminal brainstem complex of the rat. LC neurons were defined as those with axons restricted to brainstem areas receiving trigeminal primary afferent fibers. Thus, none were antidromically activated from the thalamus, tectum, or cerebellum, and their axons could be seen terminating exclusively within the trigeminal brainstem complex or reticular formation. All neurons sampled were discharged by innocuous or noxious mechanical stimulation of a restricted portion of the face or mouth. They were classified functionally as sensitive to vibrissae (N = 22), nociceptors (N = 9), guard hairs (N = 7), hairy skin (N = 3), or periodontia (N = 3). Fifty percent of the stained neurons were vibrissa sensitive. Twenty-one of these 22 responded to deflection of only one vibrissa. The remaining functional groups also had small receptive fields. Intracellular staining revealed a consistency in vibrissa-sensitive LC morphology. Somata were small to medium in size and multipolar. Their axons had an initial transverse trajectory and gave off recurrent collaterals which arborized extensively in the region of the soma. The parent axon then bifurcated. One branch traveled rostrally to subnucleus principalis while the other branch traveled caudally to subnucleus caudalis. The branches periodically sent collaterals into regions of the trigeminal complex corresponding to the transverse position of the soma. Dendrites extended 440 ± 140 μm rostrocaudally, forming a tree with a transverse perimeter of 459 ± 226 μm. Distal dendrites were thin and sinuous, had few spines, and extensively arborized adjacent to the soma. They ended in multiple swellings connected by slender processes. The stereotyped morphology of vibrissa-sensitive LC neurons differed from the variable morphologies of LC neurons activated by nociceptors, guard hairs, hairy skin, or periodontia. Although no group of neurons in one of these categories displayed a distinguishing morphological characteristic, they collectively had features which distinguished them from the vibrissa-sensitive neurons. Non-vibrissa-responsive neurons generally had more expansive, but less circular, dendritic and recurrent axonal arbors; dendrites had more spines, and axons often sent endings into the reticular formation. Some did not display rostrally and caudally directed axon bifurcation, while others branched more extensively than vibrissa LC cells. Nociceptors tended to be located in the V spinal tract, rostrally displaced substantia gelatinosa, or in the border regions between SpVi and the reticular formation.
Classroom Environments and Student Views of Social Studies: The Middle Grades

Abstract This research conducted at the junior high school replicated a research methodology used to study high school social studies classrooms. Its purpose was to examine the theory of a causal relationship between classroom environments and student attitudes toward the subject of social studies. As in the high school study, students in certain classroom environments exhibited more positive views toward the subject of social studies. In both the senior high study and in this study the classroom environmental dimensions of Teacher Support, Affiliation, Innovation, and Involvement, emerged as distinguishing characteristics of classrooms where students exhibited more positive views toward social studies. However unlike in the original research, at the junior high level classroom management dimensions also emerged as very important. These results support the causal theory, and the implications and need for further research are discussed.
Atmospheric attenuation correction and ice flag algorithms for NSCAT

The paper investigates atmospheric attenuation correction and ice flag algorithms for the NASA Scatterometer (NSCAT). The data from the Special Sensor Microwave/Imager (SSM/I) and SeaSat scatterometer (SASS) are analyzed to define and evaluate the applicability of potential algorithms. The results show that the monthly-averaged attenuation maps derived from the SSM/I data can be used to correct NSCAT data with a residual error of about 0.1 dB rms under rain-free conditions. However, when there is rain, the climatological attenuation map is not applicable because of the temporal and spatial variability of rain, and algorithms for rain flagging or correction remain to be investigated. NSCAT is designed to perform wind measurements over ice-free oceans. To reduce the temporal uncertainty of ice growth and motion, a sea-ice classification algorithm using the NSCAT data and the distinct physical scattering signatures of ocean surfaces and sea ice is proposed. This ice-flagging algorithm extends the performance of NSCAT into the polar oceans.
Stretch-induced changes in arrhythmogenesis and excitability in experimentally based heart cell models

Mechanoelectric coupling in the heart is well documented and has been suggested as a cause of arrhythmia. One hypothesized mechanism for the stretch sensitivity of cardiac muscle is the presence of...
OFDM channel estimation in the presence of frequency offset and phase noise

In this paper, we consider OFDM channel estimation in the presence of frequency offset and phase noise. In the literatures, most channel estimation methods assume perfect frequency synchronization and the knowledge of channel statistics. Phase noise and residual frequency offset cause inter-carrier interference (ICI), which consequently impairs the accuracy of channel estimation. The lack of knowledge of channel statistics can make channel estimation much harder. To resolve these problems, we propose with the aid of cyclic prefix (CP) based frequency offset estimation statistics-independent channel estimation. We iteratively search for the most likely channel impulse response (CIR) length, and use it not only for the optimum compensation of frequency offset, but also for finding the optimum window to filter the least square (LS) channel estimate which further suppress the effects of ICI and noise. The proposed scheme is compared with conventional methods for both non-interpolation and interpolation cases. Numerical results are presented to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed scheme.
History's Place in the Marketing Curriculum

Compared to many other topics in the marketing curriculum, the history of our discipline receives scant coverage. This article explains why marketing history should be considered an important subject. It then offers a few suggestions on how more accurate and interesting historical material can be integrated into our curriculum.
Comparison of Two Differently Processed Acellular Dermal Matrix Products for Root Coverage Procedures: A Prospective, Randomized Multicenter Study

Background: The purpose of this multicenter randomly controlled clinical trial was to compare two acellular dermal matrix (ADM) materials produced by different processing techniques, freeze-dried (FDADM) and solvent-dehydrated (SDADM) ADM, in their ability to correct Miller Class I and II recession defects.Methods: Eighty individuals from four study centers, each with a single maxillary anterior Miller Class I or II recession defect were enrolled. Participants were randomly assigned and treated with coronally advanced flap (CAF) + FDADM (n = 42) or CAF + SDADM (n = 38). Gingival thickness, recession depth, recession width, probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level, gingival index, plaque index, patient discomfort, and wound healing index were recorded before surgery (day 0), immediately after surgery (day 1), and 2, 4, 12, 24, and 52 weeks postoperatively. The Student t test, paired t test, and Kruskal-Wallis one-way ANOVA were used to analyze the data.Results: When evaluating the clinical parameters ...
Imaging appearance of swine-origin influenza a (Novel 2009 H1N1) pneumonia in an immunocompromised patient

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) predicted a resurgence of Swine-origin Influenza A (novel 2009 H1N1) pneumonia, hospitalizations and deaths during the 2009-2010 flu season. Immunocompromised patients are at higher risk to contract it and may present (atypically) with greater morbidity and mortality. We report the first radiographic description of CDC-confirmed swine-origin influenza A (novel 2009 H1N1) in a 32-year-old immunocompromised man. At presentation, chest radiographs demonstrated bilateral, ill-defined nodular airspace opacities. Chest CT showed upper-lobe-predominant, patchy ground-glass opacities with areas of consolidation and a thick-walled cavity.
ULTRASONIC EXTRACTION OF PROTEINS FROM AUTOCLAVED SOYBEAN FLAKES

Amounts of proteins extracted from soybean flakes by applying ultrasonic waves and by conventional stirring were compared. Respective yields of the total proteins from unautoclaved and autoclaved flakes were 60% and 16% by conventional stirring and 88% and 58% by sonication in a single 1:10 meal-to-water extraction. From autoclaved flakes sonication in a single extraction dispersed ≤78% total proteins in water with 1:40 meal-to-water ratio. Sonication recovered a portion of proteins from autoclaved flakes ordinarily unattainable by conventional stirring extraction. Proteins obtained by either method revealed no differences in their ultracentrifuge patterns.
Distributed multirobot sensing and tracking: a behavior-based approach

An important issue that arises in the automation of many large-scale surveillance and reconnaissance tasks is that of tracking the movements of (or maintaining passive contact with) objects navigating in a bounded area of interest. Oftentimes in these problems, the area to be monitored will move over time or will not permit fixed sensors, thus requiring a team of mobile sensors--or robots--to monitor the area collectively. In these situations, the robots must not only have mechanisms for determining how to track objects and how to fuse information from neighboring robots, but they must also have distributed control strategies for ensuring that the entire area of interest is continually covered to the greatest extent possible. This paper focuses on the distributed control issue by describing a proposed decentralized control mechanism that allows a team of robots to collectively track and monitor objects in an uncluttered area of interest. The approach is based upon an extension to the ALLIANCE behavior-based architecture that generalizes from the domain of loosely-coupled, independent applications to the domain of strongly cooperative applications, in which the action selection of a robot is dependent upon the actions selected by its teammates. We conclude the paper be describing our ongoing implementation of the proposed approach on a team of four mobile robots.
Infrastructure and sectoral output along the road to development

Public infrastructure is one of the foundations for economic growth. Empirical research has found that public infrastructure can have different effects in different sectors of the economy. The theoretical literature, however, has concentrated in one‐sector growth models. This paper develops a three‐sector model (agriculture, manufacturing and services) to study the effects of infrastructure. The model is calibrated and solved numerically using parameters from seven Latin American countries. Results show that the largest gains would have been obtained at an early stage of development in the decade of the 1960s. The seven Latin American countries would have also benefited from additional public investment in the 1990s, especially the service sector. This result also has implications for the early 2000s, as infrastructure expenditures have not increased from the 1990s levels. Correspondence Address: Felix Rioja, Department of Economics, Andrew Young School of Policy Studies, Georgia State University, Atlanta...
The gray divorce revolution: rising divorce among middle-aged and older adults, 1990-2010.

Purpose. Our study documents how the divorce rate among persons aged 50 and older has changed between 1990 and 2010 and identifies the sociodemographic correlates of divorce among today’s middle-aged and older adults. Design and Method. We used data from the 1990 U.S. Vital Statistics Report and the 2010 American Community Survey (ACS) to examine the change in the divorce rate over time. ACS data were analyzed to determine the sociodemographic correlates of divorce. Results. The divorce rate among adults aged 50 and older doubled between 1990 and 2010. Roughly 1 in 4 divorces in 2010 occurred to persons aged 50 and older. Demographic characteristics, economic resources, and the marital biography were associated with the risk of divorce in 2010. The rate of divorce was 2.5 times higher for those in remarriages versus first marriages, whereas the divorce rate declined as marital duration rose. Implications. The traditional focus of gerontological research on widowhood must be expanded to include divorce as another form of marital dissolution. Over 600,000 people aged 50 and older got divorced in 2010 but little is known about the predictors and consequences of divorces that occur during middle and later life.
Associations Among Hypogonadism, C-Reactive Protein, Symptom Burden, and Survival in Male Cancer Patients with Cachexia: A Preliminary Report

Abstract Context Cachexia is characterized by muscle wasting, anorexia, and elevated inflammatory markers. In patients without cancer, hypogonadism is associated with lower lean body mass, increased symptom burden, and decreased survival. Hypogonadism in cancer cachexia could exacerbate symptoms, facilitate a proinflammatory state, and decrease survival. Objectives To explore the relationships among these factors, a retrospective study of male cancer patients was conducted. Methods The charts of 98 consecutive male patients referred to a cachexia clinic at a comprehensive cancer center were reviewed. All patients reported weight loss of >5% within the preceding six months; the median age was 60 years. Fifty-seven (58%) had serum C-reactive protein (CRP), and 68 (69%) had total testosterone evaluated. Symptoms were evaluated by the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale. Results Median CRP was 20mg/L, and median testosterone level was 185ng/dL (6.42nmol/L) (normal ≥240ng/dL or 8.36nmol/L). There was an inverse correlation between testosterone and CRP levels (P 185ng/dL (13 vs. 62 weeks, P=0.004). Patients with CRP levels >10mg/L had decreased survival compared with those with levels ≤10mg/L (15 vs. 46 weeks, P=0.01). The combination of hypogonadism and elevated CRP was associated with poorer prognosis. Elevated CRP levels were associated with increased symptom burden and decreased survival. Low testosterone was associated with decreased survival and correlated inversely with CRP levels, dyspnea, and insomnia. Conclusion Our preliminary results suggest that testosterone and CRP may be additive or synergistic as markers for survival in male patients and could be useful in future prognostic models.
EXPLORING THE NUMBER OF FIRST-ORDER POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS ACROSS COUNTRIES: SOME STYLIZED FACTS*

Why do some countries have no first-order administrative subdivisions (e.g., states or provinces), whereas other countries have over 80? Recently, economists have started to look at the optimal size of countries and forces influencing the creation of local political jurisdictions like school districts. This paper provides the first analy- sis of the "missing middle" level of political jurisdictions common to all countries. We empirically examine how country size, natural transportation infrastructure, location, population fractionalization, and level of development affect the number of first-order subdivisions. The number of first-order subdivisions is shown to be associated in a non- linear way with measures of fractionalization—exhibiting a U-shaped Kuznets curve for ethnic heterogeneity and an inverted Kuznets curve for lingual and religious heterogene- ity. This is a different and more complex relationship than that found for local political jurisdictions where greater heterogeneity is associated with more districts suggesting that first-order political subdivisions may serve a different role.
The Expression of an Intestinal Form of Glutathione Peroxidase (GSHPx-GI) in Rat Intestinal Epithelium

We have previously identified and characterized GSHPx-GI, which is a cellular selenium-dependent glutathione peroxidase (GSHPx) distinct from the classic GSHPx-1 and phospholipid hydroperoxide glutathione peroxidase (PHGPX). We have determined the level of GSHPx-GI mRNA expression in the rat gastrointestinal tract from esophagus to colon. Although GSHPx-GI mRNA is readily detectable throughout the GI tract, the highest level is detected in the ileum and cecum. We have also determined the levels of GSHPx-GI mRNA expression and several antioxidant enzyme activities along the villus-to-crypt axis in the rat small intestine by cell fractionation. GSHPx-GI mRNA is present at a similar level in all of the epithelial fractions, whereas GSHPx-1 mRNA is detectable only in the remnant. This suggests that GSHPx-GI is the major cellular tetrameric GSHPx expressed in intestinal epithelium, and the expression of GSHPx-GI in the GI tract is not likely regulated differentially through maturation of epithelial cells. In terms of enzymatic activity, although we detected lower glutathione S-transferase activity in the crypt epithelium, there was a marginal increase of PHGPX activity, a twofold increase of GSHPx activity, and a three- to fivefold increase of catalase activity in the crypt relative to the distal villus. Thus, the crypt epithelial cells may be better protected from peroxidative damage.
Specifying Java thread semantics using a uniform memory model

Standardized language level support for threads is one of the most important features of Java. However, defining the Java Memory Model (JMM) has turned out to be a major challenge. Several models produced to date are not as easily comprehensible and comparable as first thought. Given the growing interest in multithreaded Java programming, it is essential to have a sound framework that would allow formal specification and reasoning about the JMM.This paper presents the Uniform Memory Model (UMM), a generic memory model specification framework. Based on guarded commands, UMM can be easily integrated with a model checking utility, providing strong built-in support for formal verification and program analysis. With a flexible and simple architecture, UMM is configurable to capture different memory consistency requirements for both architectural and language level memory models. An alternative formal specification of the JMM, primarily based on the semantics proposed by Manson and Pugh, is implemented in UMM. Systematic analysis has revealed interesting properties of the proposed semantics. Inconsistencies from the original specification have also been uncovered.
High Speed Camera Studies of a Giant Pulse Laser

The output of a pulsed laser is generally monitored as a function of time. The spatial properties of the beam, when they are measured, are usually time integrated. A study which provides a time resolved view of the spatial properties can often yield valuable insight into the overall behavior of the system. For example, if a laser radiates from small areas of the rod which shift with time, the resulting spread of the beam is more directly associated with this area than the apparent area obtained from an integrated observation. Standard high-speed framing and streaking cameras can be used to study the output of the conventional pulsed lasers, since much useful information can be obtained with their microsecond resolution. When the laser is operated in the giant-pulse mode, the camera must have a temporal resolution better by several orders of magnitude. This improved resolution can only be accomplished through electronic or electro-optical techniques.
Monitor Alarm Fatigue: Standardizing Use of Physiological Monitors and Decreasing Nuisance Alarms

BACKGROUND: Reliance on physiological monitors to continuously "watch" patients and to alert the nurse when a serious rhythm problem occurs is standard practice on monitored units. Alarms are intended to alert clinicians to deviations from a predetermined "normal" status. However, alarm fatigue may occur when the sheer number of monitor alarms overwhelms clinicians, possibly leading to alarms being disabled, silenced, or ignored. PURPOSE: Excessive numbers of monitor alarms and fear that nurses have become desensitized to these alarms was the impetus for a unit-based quality improvement project. METHODS: Small tests of change to improve alarm management were conducted on a medical progressive care unit. The types and frequency of monitor alarms in the unit were assessed. Nurses were trained to individualize patients' alarm parameter limits and levels. Monitor software was modified to promote audibility of critical alarms. RESULTS: Critical monitor alarms were reduced 43% from baseline data. The reduction of alarms could be attributed to adjustment of monitor alarm defaults, careful assessment and customization of monitor alarm parameter limits and levels, and implementation of an interdisciplinary monitor policy. DISCUSSION: Although alarms are important and sometimes life-saving, they can compromise patients' safety if ignored. This unit-based quality improvement initiative was beneficial as a starting point for revamping alarm management throughout the institution. Although the focus of this report is hospital patient care, the information also applies to home smoke alarms or hazard alarms in industry. Language: en
Asymmetry in learning automata playing multi-level games

To achieve synergy, it is important for agents to form cooperative groups such that shared resources, strategies and information can be fully utilized. A game-theoretic model is presented in which agents decide whether it is beneficial to form groups and what actions to take within the chosen context. Learning automata are used to model this multi-level decision-making process. The results show that asymmetries in initialization and equilibria do not effect this process. With delayed information, both symmetric and asymmetric penalties lead to chaos but with different Lyapunov exponents.
General Multiprocessor Task Scheduling

Most papers in the scheduling field assume that a job can be processed by only one machine at a time. Namely, they use a one-job-on-one-machine model. In many industry settings, this may not be an adequate model. Motivated by human resource planning, diagnosable microprocessor systems, berth allocation, and manufacturing systems that may require several resources simultaneously to process a job, we study the problem with a one-job-on-multiple- machine model. In our model, there are several alternatives that can be used to process a job. In each alternative, several machines need to process simultaneously the job assigned. Our purpose is to select an alternative for each job and then to schedule jobs to minimize the completion time of all jobs. In this paper, we provide a pseudopolynomial algorithm to solve optimally the two-machine problem, and a combination of a fully polynomial scheme and a heuristic to solve the three-machine problem. We then extend the results to a general m-machine problem. Our algorithms also provide an effective lower bounding scheme which lays the foundation for solving optimally the general m-machine problem. Furthermore, our algorithms can also be applied to solve a special case of the three-machine problem in pseudopolynomial time. Both pseudopolynomial algorithms (for two-machine and three-machine problems) are much more efficient than those in the literature. © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Naval Research Logistics 46: 57-74, 1999