cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sufficient Conditions for Monotone Hazard Rate An Application to Latency-Probability Curves

Abstract It is assumed that when a subject makes a response after comparing a random variable with a fixed criterion, his response latency is inversely related to the distance between the value of the variable and the criterion. This paper then examines the relationship to response probability of (a) response latency, (b) difference between two latencies and (c) dispersion of latency, and also some properties of the latency distribution. It is shown that the latency-probability curve is decreasing if and only if the hazard function of the underlying distribution is increasing and, by using a fundamental lemma, sufficient conditions are obtained for monotone hazard rate. An inequality is established which is satisfied by the slope of the Receiver Operating Characteristic under these sufficient conditions. Finally, a Latency Operating Characteristic is defined and it is suggested that such a plot can be useful in assessing the consistency between latency data and theory.
Interphotoreceptor retinoid-binding protein (IRBP) in the postnatal developing rds mutant mouse retina: EM immunocytochemical localization

The distribution of IRBP was examined in postnatal developing retinas of rds (020/A) mutant mice and Balb/c controls by EM immunocytochemistry. Light labeling for IRBP was detected in mutant and control retinas by postnatal day 9 (P9) largely in the interphotoreceptor matrix (IPM). At P14, some photoreceptors in the rds retina showed a higher density of label in the Golgi for IRBP than neighboring cells and those of controls processed simultaneously. This high density of label for IRBP was observed also in the Golgi of a small population of photoreceptor cells at P18, P19 and P21 in rds retinas. These cells were found to represent approximately 3–5% of the photoreceptor population. The density of label for IRBP at the apical RPE region was obviously low in the rds retinas by P18, P19 and P21. However, this same region in controls of the same ages was densely labeled for IRBP. The low density of labeling at the apical RPE region in the rds retinas may indicate a change in the rate of synthesis, secretion, distribution and/or degradation in the IPM. The high density of intracellular labeling in a small population of cells may be indicative of impaired secretion, an increase in IRBP synthesis or the initiation of photoreceptor deterioration. Whether the differences observed in the distribution of IRBP in the rds mutant are primary or secondary effects of the genetic lesion remains undetermined.
What the Science of Morality Doesn’t Say About Morality

In this article I ask what recent moral psychology and neuroscience can and can’t claim to have discovered about morality. I argue that the object of study of much recent work is not morality but a...
Unit Regional Value Concept and its Application to Kansas: ABSTRACT

From 1911-1964 the United States produced nonrenewable natural resources whose value was $458,101 billion, yielding a return of $151,569 per sq mi; with this as the expected value, one finds that the individual states have returned from $9.6 × 103 to $1 × 106 per sq mi. Thus the return is not uniform. Return does not appear to depend solely on geology, and in particular is independent of surface geology. In fact, the distribution of return in dollar value per square mile is log-normal and, in these terms, dollar return per unit area is a random variable. This implies that any area large enough may be equally well blessed in resources to return at least the expected value of the United States. In this period the return for Kansas is $196.402 × 103 per sq. mi; with basement at 5,000 feet, this is equivalent to the return per cubic mile. For the year 1960 the distribution of unit regional value per square mile per county ranges from $36 × 103 to $6.76 × 103; the effect of the Central Kansas uplift is, of course, obvious but what is not by any means clear is whether those areas with very much lower than average value have been given an equal opportunity to achieve their true level of return. On the basis of unit regional value it appears possible to classify areas into those which are largely depleted, those worthy of additional search, and those which have received little attention. Because the existence of resources in an area is not the sole determinant of its value, the unit regional value concept may be used as a useful planning tool. End_of_Article - Last_Page 1688------------
Crowding perception determinants at intensively developed outdoor recreation sites

Abstract A study of the causes of crowding perceptions at a heavily used recreation area is reported. It was hypothesized that perceived crowding would be positively correlated with recreationists’ exposure to threatening behavior, and with the probability that physical movement was constrained. Both hypotheses received support. Goal‐related crowding, stemming from incompatibilities between physical density levels and various psychological goals motivating participation in an activity, was unimportant at this site, although such crowding experiences have been reported in studies of wilderness users. In addition, an objective measure of use density was also unrelated to crowding perceptions.
Concurrent growth of cells from different human amnions

Abstract Human amnion cells originating from more than one amniotic membrane after seeding in equal or unequal proportions grew concurrently in primary culture without effects on the cell yield. The reported experiments included cells from sixteen individuals. The yield of cells from individual amnions after a constant seeding varied over a 7–8-fold range when estimated after fourteen days of cultivation. After a doubling of the number of seeded cells (from 100,000 to 200,000 cells per ml) in cultures from only one membrane, the 14-day yield of the high seeding level was 69.4 to 113.9 per cent of the doubled yield of low seeding. This percentage was unrelated to the size of the yield. No significant effects on the resulting mutual cell yield was observed, either when cells from different membranes were seeded at the same time, or when cells from one individual were inoculated into already established cultures of various ages of cells from another individual. No effect on the yield in mixed cultures of cells from two or three membranes could be attributed to differences in cell sex. Significance of variation was evaluated statistically and Tukey's procedure for testing multiple comparisons within an experiment were applied to the data. These tests demonstrated some significant variation in the 14-day yield of cells from individual membranes, but no significant differences between yield from mixed amnion cell cultures and yield of cells from membranes cultured separately. These data support the conclusion that previously reported inhibition of transformed cells in mixed culture with primary amnion cells was not an expression of origin of cells from different individuals.
GATA Transcription Factor Required for Immunity to Bacterial and Fungal Pathogens

In the past decade, Caenorhabditis elegans has been used to dissect several genetic pathways involved in immunity; however, little is known about transcription factors that regulate the expression of immune effectors. C. elegans does not appear to have a functional homolog of the key immune transcription factor NF-κB. Here we show that that the intestinal GATA transcription factor ELT-2 is required for both immunity to Salmonella enterica and expression of a C-type lectin gene, clec-67, which is expressed in the intestinal cells and is a good marker of S. enterica infection. We also found that ELT-2 is required for immunity to Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterococcus faecalis, and Cryptococcus neoformans. Lack of immune inhibition by DAF-2, which negatively regulates the FOXO transcription factor DAF-16, rescues the hypersusceptibility to pathogens phenotype of elt-2(RNAi) animals. Our results indicate that ELT-2 is part of a multi-pathogen defense pathway that regulates innate immunity independently of the DAF-2/DAF-16 signaling pathway.
Steroid injection for sinonasal polyps: the University of Virginia experience.

BACKGROUND Sinonasal polyps are treated with topical steroids, systemic oral steroids, surgical excision, and intrapolyp steroid injection. Use of steroid injection is not widespread because of reported complications. The objective of this study was to evaluate the complications of intrapolyp steroid injections and compare it to the complications of surgical removal of polyps. METHODS All patients seen between 1994 and 2003 with a diagnosis of nasal polyps were reviewed retrospectively. Demographics, complications, follow-up, and comorbidities were collected. Frequency of each treatment modality used and complications of each treatment were compared. RESULTS Three hundred fifty-eight patients were in the study with a mean follow-up of 30 months. Respiratory comorbidities were asthma alone (35%), aspirin triad (16%), and cystic fibrosis (15%). Other comorbidities were smokers (21%). Treatment modalities were medical treatment alone (14%); medical treatment and steroid injections (19%); medical treatment and surgery (33%); and medical treatment, injections, and surgery (34%). Patients who underwent injection had fewer surgeries (p < 0.001). There was 1 minor complication associated with 1495 injections and 11 major and 16 minor complications associated with the 310 surgeries. The differences in complication rates were statistically significant (p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in demographics, follow-up, or comorbidities between patients who received injections and patients who underwent surgery. CONCLUSION Intrapolyp steroid injection is associated with a significantly lower rate of complication than is surgical excision of sinonasal polyps. Steroid injection also may decrease the need for further surgical intervention of polyps.
Fatty Acid Composition of Lipids Extracted from Rats Fed Milk Fat, Corn Oil, and Lard

Summary The lipids extracted from rats fed milk fat differed in both minor and major components from the lipids extracted from rats fed corn oil or lard. The minor components consisted of 1.7–5.4% odd- and branched-chain fatty acids which were found in milk fat and in the lipids extracted from the carcass of rats fed milk fat, but not in corn oil or lard or in the lipids extracted from rats fed corn oil or lard. The major component fatty acids in milk fat, corn oil, and lard were selectively deposited in the carcass and liver tissue. The most drastic selectivity involved linoleic acid, which varied from 2% in those fed milk fat to 39% in those fed corn oil. On the other hand, the lipids extracted from the liver of rats fed milk fat contained 3% more arachidonic acid than the lipids extracted from livers of those on corn oil, or 13 and 10%, respectively. Heated milk fat in the diet did not seem to alter statistically the mixed fatty acid composition of the carcass or liver lipids.
Postcensal estimates of household income distributions

This article develops and evaluates a method for deriving postcensal estimates of household income distributions for counties. A modified lognormal probability curve is used as a model of income distribution. The function is closely related to the classical lognormal model, but it contains a nonlinear component in its derivation. Simulated postcensal estimates of household income distributions are compared with 1980 census data for the counties in California. The results indicate that the modified lognormal curve approximates observed income distributions well and produces reliable postcensal estimates for areas with a wide variety of median income levels and numbers of households.
Monitoring PDT response of head and neck lesions with diffuse optical spectroscopies

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has recently emerged as a potential treatment alternative for head and neck cancer. There is strong evidence that imprecise PDT dosimetry results in variations in clinical responses. Quantitative tools are likely to play an essential role in bringing PDT to a full realization of its potential benefits. They can provide standardization of site-specific individualized protocols that are used to monitor both light and photosensitizer (HPPH) dose, as well as the tissue response for individual patients. To accomplish this, we used a custom instrument and a hand-held probe that allowed quantification of blood flow, blood volume, blood oxygen saturation and drug concentration.
Distribution and Morphological Variations of Living Planktonic Foraminifers: ABSTRACT

Surface (0-10m) and vertical (300-0m) plankton samples were collected at seventy stations (116 samples) in the North Atlantic during the summer of 1962. Three faunal provinces were recognized. The subarctic fauna consisted of Globigerina bulloides, G. quinqueloba, and G. pachyderma. The subtropical fauna was typified by Globigerinoides ruber and G. sacculifer. The subarctic-temperate boundary was crossed five times in the western half of the northern traverse from New York to Scotland. The temperate fauna was dominated by End_Page 516------------------------------ Globorotalia inflata (d'Orbigny) but also included subarctic or subtropical species. Highest foraminiferal concentrations were found in the temperate-subarctic zone, and the lowest in the central Sargasso Sea. Bathythermograph temperatures ranged from 4.4°C. to 27.5°C. Temperature inversions occurred at nine stations SE. of Newfoundland. Within the BT range (0-274 m) temperatures fluctuated from 2.2°C. to 10.6°C. Surface salinities varied from 32.58 ^pmil in cold water to 37.59 ^pmil in warm water. Morphological variations resulting from environmental influences were evident in some species. The maximum diameter of Globigerina bulloides was generally less than 0.4 mm above 14°C. Large specimens (0.6+mm) and specimens with the aperture over four chambers were abundant below 12°C. and when the salinity was less than 35.5 ^pmil. Deeper-water samples from stations having temperature inversions contained abundant forms with a reduced final chamber, similar to Globigerina quadrilata Galloway and Wissler. The terminal chamber in some specimens had a secondary aperture. Globigerina cf. quinqueloba, common in waters below 15°C., graded into G. pachyderma with decreasing temperature. Typical G. pachyderma was not found in surface tows. Although encountered rarely, it did appear when water temperatures were below 10°C. Globorotalia inflata was abundant between 13.5°C. and 18°C. Only deep-water tows with temperatures about 10°C. contained small forms with thick tests, a reduced final chamber, and an aberrant aperture. The signal morphological variation was observed from the deepest tow taken (0-1150 m), and contained forms transitional between common Hastigerina pelagica and large, digitate Hastigerinella rhumbleri. That depth and temperature greatly influence the distribution as well as the morphology of planktonic foraminifers is evident. End_of_Article - Last_Page 517------------
Probing the Planck scale with proton decay

We advocate the idea that proton decay may probe physics at the Planck scale instead of the GUT scale. This is possible because supersymmetric theories have dimension-5 operators that can induce proton decay at dangerous rates, even with R-parity conservation. These operators are expected to be suppressed by the same physics that explains the fermion masses and mixings. We present a thorough analysis of nucleon partial lifetimes in models with a string-inspired anomalous U(1)_X family symmetry which is responsible for the fermionic mass spectrum as well as forbidding R-parity violating interactions. Protons and neutrons can decay via R-parity conserving non-renormalizable superpotential terms that are suppressed by the Planck scale and powers of the Cabibbo angle. Many of the models naturally lead to nucleon decay near present limits without any reference to grand unification.
Traditional instruction in advanced mathematics courses: a case study of one professor’s lectures and proofs in an introductory real analysis course

Abstract It is widely accepted by mathematics educators and mathematicians that most proof-oriented university mathematics courses are taught in a “definition-theorem-proof” format. However, there are relatively few empirical studies on what takes place during this instruction, why this instruction is used, and how it affects students’ learning. In this paper, I investigate these issues by examining a case study of one professor using this type of instruction in an introductory real analysis course. I first describe the professor’s actions in the classroom and argue that these actions are the result of the professor’s beliefs about mathematics, students, and education, as well as his knowledge of the material being covered. I then illustrate how the professor’s teaching style influenced the way that his students attempted to learn the material. Finally, I discuss the implications that the reported data have on mathematics education research.
Solvation effects on alanine dipeptide: A MP2/cc‐pVTZ//MP2/6‐31G** study of (Φ, Ψ) energy maps and conformers in the gas phase, ether, and water

The effects of solvation on the conformations and energies of alanine dipeptide (AD) have been studied by ab initio calculations up to MP2/cc-pVTZ//MP2/6-31G**, utilizing the polarizable continuum model (PCM) to mimic solvation effects. The energy surfaces in the gas phase, ether, and water bear similar topological features carved by the steric hindrance, but the details differ significantly due to the solvent effects. The gas-phase energy map is qualitatively consistent with the Ramachandran plot showing seven energy minima. With respect to the gas-phase map, the significant changes of the aqueous map include (1) the expanded low-energy regions, (2) the emergence of an energy barrier between C5-β and αR-β2 regions, (3) a clearly pronounced αR minimum, a new β-conformer, and the disappearance of the gas-phase global minimum, and (4) the shift of the dominant region in LEII from the gas-phase C7ax region to the αL region. These changes bring the map in water to be much closer to the Ramachandran plot than the gas-phase map. The solvent effects on the geometries include the elongation of the exposed NH and CO bonds, the shortening of the buried HNCO peptide bonds, and the enhanced planarity of the peptide bonds. The energy surface in ether has features similar to those both in the gas phase and in water. The free energy order computed in the gas phase and in ether is in good agreement with experimental studies that concluded that C5 and C7eq are the dominant species in both the gas phase and nonpolar solvents. The free energy order in water is consistent with the experimental observation that the dominant C7eq in the nonpolar solvent was largely replaced by PII-like (i.e., β) and αR in the strong polar solvents. Based on calculations on AD + 4H2O and other AD–water clusters, we suggest that explicit water–AD interactions may distort C5 and β (or αR and β) to an intermediate conformation. Our analysis also shows that the PCM calculations at the MP2/cc-pVTZ//MP2/6-31G** level give good descriptions to the bulk solvent polarization effect. The results presented in this article should be of sufficient quality to characterize the peptide bonds in the gas phase and solvents. The energy surfaces may serve as the basis for developing of strategies enabling the inclusion of solvent polarization in the force field. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem 25: 1699–1716, 2004
Soot formation in combustion processes

Sooting tendencies of fuels are analyzed with respect to the type of experimental configuration used—per-mixed flames, normal and inverse co-annular, Wolfhard-Parker and counter-flowing diffusion flames, or shock tubes. The important effect of temperature in each type of experiment is examined. The relative tendency of various fuels to soot when consumed in pre-mixed and diffusion flames has been determined by the qualitative measurements of critical sooting equivalence ratios and smoke heights at various temperatures and quantitatively confirmed by measurements of chemical species, soot number density and volume fraction. Fuel structure has a significant effect on the sooting tendency of diffusion flames, but little influence in premixed flames. Irrespective of the fuel in diffusion flames soot inception occurs around 1400 K and is dependent somewhat on H atom diffusion. Particle burnout ceases at about 1300 K and is responsible for the smoke height. Incipient particle formation determines the volume fraction of soot and is controlled by the rate of formation of the first aromatic species containing one to two rings. The particle growth process is found to be the same regardless of flame type. A generalized chemical mechanism of soot formation irrespective of flame type or process is presented. The various routes in this mechanism support the relative sooting tendency of fuels found in both flame and shock tube experiments. The effect of oxygen added to various fuel in diffusion controlled experiments is analyzed.
Some elementary considerations of neural models

The outputs of nervous systems (as expressed in motor activity) are viewed as mathematical transformations on the inputs which enter via the sensory nerves. Simple nerve-ganglion models are exhibited which theoretically account for the arithmetic computations necessary to expedite such transformations.
Turn Off the IDO: Will Clinical Trials Be Successful?

Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) is overexpressed in many human cancers and is believed to play a role in tumor immune evasion, but a requirement for IDO in tumor progression has not been formally shown. The study by Smith and colleagues in this issue of Cancer Discovery provides genetic evidence for the importance of IDO in tumorigenesis, which supports the use of IDO inhibitors in clinical trials in humans.
Three-Dimensional Numerical Simulation and Performance Study of an Industrial Static Mixer Using Pseudo-Plastic Fluids

Mixing is an essential component of nearly all industrial chemical processes, ranging from simple blending to complex multi-phase reaction systems for which the reaction rate, the yield and the selectivity are highly dependent upon the mixing performance. Consequences of improper mixing include nonreproducible processing conditions and lowered product quality, resulting in the need for more elaborate downstream purification processes and increased waste disposal costs. A wide range of working fluids in industrial mixers are non-Newtonian. The non-Newtonian fluid studied here is a member of the pseudo-plastic fluids group, characterized by a progressively decreasing slope or shear stress versus shear rate. These fluids are termed shear thinning; the viscosity decreases with increasing velocity gradient. In this paper, a previous study by the authors on an industrial helical static mixer is extended to illustrate how static mixing processes of single-phase pseudo-plastic liquids can be simulated numerically. A further aim is to provide an improved understanding of the flow pattern of pseudo-plastic single-phase liquids through the mixer. A three-dimensional finite volume simulation is used to study the performance of the mixer. A commercial software, FLUENT, is used in a part of the numerical simulation. The flow velocities, pressure drops, etc. are calculated for various flow rates, using the Carreau and the power law models for non-Newtonian fluids. The numerical predictions by these two models are compared to existing experimental data. Also, a comparison of the mixer performance for both Newtonian and pseudo-plastic fluids is presented.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Interpolation at a Few Points

Fork=2 and 3, B. Shekhtman proved thatn+k?1 is the smallest dimension of a subspace,F?C(Rn) that can interpolate tokspecified real values atkdistinct points inRn. Here we characterize such spaces that interpolate at a few points. The characterization provides an economical proof of Shekhtman's theorems, as well as establishing new properties of these spaces.
Alpha particle loss diagnostics in TFTR and tokamak reactors

Abstract Measurement of alpha particle loss rates to the first wall is of importance in planning tokamak fusion reactors, since large loss rates can adversely affect performance. A set of scintillator-based probes has been operated in TFTR to measure alpha particle losses during its DT campaign. A sample exposure probe has also provided alpha particle loss data under some conditions. These technologies, along with infrared imaging and Faraday cups, may be adaptable to alpha particle loss measurements in ITER or other reactor-scale tokamaks. Constraints on detector operation in a reactor environment are discussed.
Enhanced sensitivity growth hormone (GH) chemiluminescence assay reveals lower postglucose nadir GH concentrations in men than women

Modifications were made to a commercially available human (h) GH chemiluminescence assay (Nichols Luma Tag hGH assay), which improved its sensitivity to 0.002 micrograms/L. The results of this assay had a high correlation with those of the Nichols hGH immunoradiometric assay (IRMA; r = 0.91; P < 0.001). The addition of recombinant hGH-binding protein (0.1-10 nmol/L) to standards and serum samples caused a dose-responsive reduction in measured GH in both the chemiluminescence assay and the IRMA; at physiological concentrations of hGH-binding protein, a 10-20% reduction was observed. Fifteen normal young adults (nine men and six women) underwent a standard 100-g oral glucose tolerance test, and plasma GH was measured from 30 min before until 5 h after glucose ingestion. GH was measurable in all samples with the chemiluminescence assay, but fell below the sensitivity of the IRMA in 59% of the samples. There was no difference between baseline or peak glucose levels in male and female subjects, but serum GH concentrations (mean +/- SD) measured by the enhanced sensitivity chemiluminescence assay were lower in male than female subjects at both baseline (0.12 +/- 0.08 vs. 2.3 +/- 2.3 micrograms/L; P < 0.01) and the postglucose GH nadir (0.029 +/- 0.014 vs. 0.25 +/- 0.23 micrograms/L; P < 0.01). The high correlation between baseline and nadir GH (r = 0.82; P < 0.001) and the equivalent fractional decline in mean GH levels in men and women after glucose administration (67 +/- 17% vs. 84 +/- 8%; P = 0.06) suggest that the lower GH levels in men after glucose treatment are due to lower baseline values and not to a greater suppressive effect of glucose.
Synthesis of aromatic amino acids by mutant strains of Lactobacillus arabinosus.

Abstract Stable variants of Lactobacillus arabinosus which can synthesize tyrosine and tyrosine plus phenylalanine and a similar but less stable change from either of these strains to one also capable of tryptophan synthesis are reported. Evidence favoring the belief that these changes are analogous to gene mutations is presented. Quantitative comparisons of nutritional requirements indicate that in these mutants phenylalanine is not an intermediate in tyrosine synthesis, and that tryptophan does not participate in the production of either phenylalanine or tyrosine. On the basis of relative frequencies of adaptation, the following formulation is suggested: X = common precursor Crossed arrows indicate synthetic sequences to be blocked in the parental strain and regained in the corresponding mutants.
Effects of restraint on rat adrenomedullary response to 2-deoxy-D-glucose.

Male rats immobilized for 2 1/2 hours daily for seven or 40 consecutive days were compared to control animals. Urines were collected for two consecutive 24-hour intervals, starting with the beginning of the last 2 1/2-hour restraint interval. Four days after the last restraint interval, all rats received a single injection of 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2DG) (500 mg/kg). Immediately afterwards, urine specimens were collected for another 24-hour period. The 24-hour urinary epinephrine (E) of the initial period was markedly increased after seven immobilizations and 40 immobilizations. The increase in E was significant during the second day of collection after seven immobilizations, but not after 40 immobilizations. The urinary E during the period after 2DG administration was increased for all immobilized rats; the E levels after 40 immobilizations were greater than after seven immobilizations. For evaluating adrenal changes, animals were immobilized daily and given 2DG daily. Six hours after one immobilization followed by 2DG there was a marked lowering of adrenal epinephrine and a small increase in adrenal tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and phenylethanolamine-N-methyl transferase. Those animals immobilized and treated with 2DG daily for one week showed marked lowering of adrenal E and an increase in adrenal TH and dopamine-B-hydroxylase.
Female infanticide and human sex ratio evolution

The possible effect on the evolution of the human sex ratio of a preference for male children is examined in a genetic model. It is shown that the killing of infant daughters can lead to either a female- or a male-biased sex ratio, the outcome depending on the decision rule used to determine the fate of a child. This reconciles long-standing contradictory results.
Seasonal Patterns of Abundance among Three Species of Culex Mosquitoes in a South Florida Wastewater Lagoon

We monitored over 16 months the density of immature mosquitoes in a settling lagoon receiving dairy wastewater. Within microhabitats containing floating or emergent vegetation, 75% of all samples were positive for mosquitoes and the mean number per sample was 102.9. The vast majority of the mosquitoes collected during the annual cycle was of the Culex (Culex) group. During the summer and fall, Culex nigripalpus Theobald was the most abundant. With the onset of winter, C. nigripalpus's density dropped to a low level where it remained until summer. In contrast, immatures of Culex salinarius Coquillett and Culex quinquefasciatus Say were generally rare or uncommon for most of the summer and fall. Peak densities for both species occurred between January and April. The scarcity of immature C. quinquefasciatus in the lagoon during the summer and fall was not associated with reduced nutrient levels in the aquatic habitat.
Explicit travelling wave solutions of variants of the K(n,n) and the ZK(n,n) equations with compact and noncompact structures

In this work two powerful schemes, that use the reliable ideas of the sine-cosine method and the tanh method, are presented. Variants of the K(n,n) and the ZK(n,n) are selected to illustrate the two methods and to derive compact and noncompact solutions for these nonlinear variants with dispersive effects. The coefficients of the derivatives of the equation play a major role in change of the physical structures of the solutions.
Prevalence of positive skin prick test results in children with Down syndrome: a case-control study

Background Because many of the same otologic and nasal problems experienced by children with Down syndrome are also frequent in children with atopic disease, many children with Down syndrome are referred to an allergist for evaluation. Objective To determine the prevalence of positive skin prick test (SPT) reactions to common aeroallergens in children with Down syndrome. Methods Using a case-control design, we reviewed the medical records of children with Down syndrome who had undergone SPT. Each case was matched by sex and age with a control who had been evaluated by SPT at an initial visit. Results Thirty-nine cases and controls were identified. Eighteen percent of cases were found to have at least 1 positive SPT result compared with 54% of controls. This closely approximates the percentage of the general population with at least 1 positive SPT result (54.3%) as reported in the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Conclusions Given the low prevalence of positive SPT results in children with Down syndrome, it is unlikely that allergic rhinitis will be identified as the cause of many of the chronic rhinitis symptoms that many of these children are referred to an allergy practice to have evaluated. It may be helpful to the parents and to the patients themselves to avoid involving another specialist and appointment because they frequently are involved with many specialists for medical care. A larger study would be helpful in confirming the prevalence of positive SPT results in children with Down syndrome.
Density gradient multilayered polymerization (DGMP): a novel technique for creating multi-compartment, customizable scaffolds for tissue engineering.

Complex tissue culture matrices, in which types and concentrations of biological stimuli (e.g. growth factors, inhibitors, or small molecules) or matrix structure (e.g. composition, concentration, or stiffness of the matrix) vary over space, would enable a wide range of investigations concerning how these variables affect cell differentiation, migration, and other phenomena. The major challenge in creating layered matrices is maintaining the structural integrity of layer interfaces without diffusion of individual components from each layer1. Current methodologies to achieve this include photopatterning2-3, lithography4, sequential functionalization5, freeze drying6, microfluidics7, or centrifugation8, many of which require sophisticated instrumentation and technical skills. Others rely on sequential attachment of individual layers, which may lead to delamination of layers9. DGMP overcomes these issues by using an inert density modifier such as iodixanol to create layers of varying densities10. Since the density modifier can be mixed with any prepolymer or bioactive molecule, DGMP allows each scaffold layer to be customized. Simply varying the concentration of the density modifier prevents mixing of adjacent layers while they remain aqueous. Subsequent single step polymerization gives rise to a structurally continuous multilayered scaffold, in which each layer has distinct chemical and mechanical properties. The density modifier can be easily removed with sufficient rinsing without perturbation of the individual layers or their components. This technique is therefore well suited for creating hydrogels of various sizes, shapes, and materials. A protocol for fabricating a 2D-polyethylene glycol (PEG) gel, in which alternating layers incorporate RGDS-350, is outlined below. We use PEG because it is biocompatible and inert. RGDS, a cell adhesion peptide11, is used to demonstrate spatial restriction of a biological cue, and the conjugation of a fluorophore (Alexa Fluor 350) enables us to visually distinguish various layers. This procedure can be adapted for other materials (e.g. collagen, hyaluronan, etc.) and can be extended to fabricate 3D gels with some modifications10.
The Chemical Nature and Function of the Endoplasmic Granules of the Ciliate Conchophthirus curtus

SYNOPSIS. Conchophthirus curtus is a thigmotrich that occurs on the gills of Unionid clams (Elliptio complanatus in this study). The anterior third of the endoplasm, unlike the remainder, is relatively firm and without gastrioles; it contains an extensive aggregation of specialized endoplasmic granules and is therefore called granuloplasm. On the surface ventral to the granuloplasm is a thigmotactic area that bears closely set, strongly adherent cilia. There is no evidence that the granules are intracellular microorganisms; they are Feulgen-negative and do not divide, nor do they stain like bacteria. Cytochemical tests show that the granules contain neutral fat, fatty acid, phospholipid, glycogen, and mucin. The evidence indicates that the principal function of the granules and granuloplasm is the production of mucin, which is supplied to the underlying thigmotactic cilia, thereby conferring on them their adhesive properties. Thus, the granules and granuloplasm constitute a mucous organelle, and to the extent that they are osmiophilic and secretory they qualify as Golgi bodies and Golgi material, respectively. Since endoplasmic granule is a general term for any of the granules of protozoan endoplasm, it is recommended that the granules of the present study be called muciferous granules.
Habitat Assessment of Non-Wadeable Rivers in Michigan

Habitat evaluation of wadeable streams based on accepted protocols provides a rapid and widely used adjunct to biological assessment. However, little effort has been devoted to habitat evaluation in non-wadeable rivers, where it is likely that protocols will differ and field logistics will be more challenging. We developed and tested a non-wadeable habitat index (NWHI) for rivers of Michigan, where non-wadeable rivers were defined as those of order ≥5, drainage area ≥1600 km2, mainstem lengths ≥100 km, and mean annual discharge ≥15 m3/s. This identified 22 candidate rivers that ranged in length from 103 to 825 km and in drainage area from 1620 to 16,860 km2. We measured 171 individual habitat variables over 2-km reaches at 35 locations on 14 rivers during 2000–2002, where mean wetted width was found to range from 32 to 185 m and mean thalweg depth from 0.8 to 8.3 m. We used correlation and principal components analysis to reduce the number of variables, and examined the spatial pattern of retained variables to exclude any that appeared to reflect spatial location rather than reach condition, resulting in 12 variables to be considered in the habitat index. The proposed NWHI included seven variables: riparian width, large woody debris, aquatic vegetation, bottom deposition, bank stability, thalweg substrate, and off-channel habitat. These variables were included because of their statistical association with independently derived measures of human disturbance in the riparian zone and the catchment, and because they are considered important in other habitat protocols or to the ecology of large rivers. Five variables were excluded because they were primarily related to river size rather than anthropogenic disturbance. This index correlated strongly with indices of disturbance based on the riparian (adjusted R2 = 0.62) and the catchment (adjusted R2 = 0.50), and distinguished the 35 river reaches into the categories of poor (2), fair (19), good (13), and excellent (1). Habitat variables retained in the NWHI differ from several used in wadeable streams, and place greater emphasis on known characteristic features of larger rivers.
Transcallosal approach for third ventriculostomy and removal of midbrain cavernous malformation

Symptomatic brain stem cavernous malformations often present the dilemma of choosing an approach for their resection. Superior midline midbrain lesions are in a particularly challenging location, as they are less accessible via traditional lateral or posterior approaches. The author presents a case of a young woman who presented with a symptomatic cavernous malformation with surface presentation to the floor of the third ventricle. The lesion was causing sensory symptoms from local mass effect and hydrocephalus from occlusion of the Aqueduct of Sylvius. An approach was chosen to both perform a third ventriculostomy and remove the cavernous malformation. Through a right frontal craniotomy, a transcallosal-transforaminal approach was used to perform a third ventriculostomy. Through the same callosal opening, a subchoroidal approach was performed to provide access the cavernous malformation. The details of the procedure and nuances of technique are described in the narration. The video can be found here: http://youtu.be/zKKnehp7l2c. (http://thejns.org/doi/abs/10.3171/2013.V1.FOCUS12348)
Effect of aliphatic spacer substitution on the reactivity of phenyl carbamate acrylate monomers

Novel monoacrylate monomers with a carbamate secondary functionality and a terminal aryl group were synthesized to study the mechanisms that allow for increased reactivity of these monomers compare...
Bistatic scattering matrix for a frustrum

Scattering of a plane wave by a conducting frustum is treated by geometrical diffraction theory. Formulas appropriate for calculating the scattering matrix as a function of frequency, aspect angle, and bistatic angle are presented. Calculations for two frustums are in very good agreement with bistatic measurement data.
Self-Driving Vehicles: The Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

Self-driving vehicles seem to have become quite the rage in popular culture over the past 3 years or so. Jumpstarted by the DARPA Grand Challenges, the promise of self-driving vehicles does have the potential to revolutionize modern transportation. This talk will provide some insights on many basic questions that, however, still remain unanswered. What are the technological barriers? What can or cannot be sensed? Can vehicles recognize and comprehend as good as (or better than) humans? What role does connectivity play (if any)? Will the technology be affordable for the masses? How do issues like liability, insurance, regulations and societal acceptance impact deployment? The talk will be based on road experiences interspersed with some speculation.
Patient knowledge improves glycemic control: is it time to go back to the classroom?

Background Over the last two decades, pharmaceutical intervention for the treatment of type 2 diabetes has expanded. Studies over this same time demonstrated the benefits of tight glycemic control. Unfortunately, despite the availability of novel therapies, glycemic control remains problematic. Nonpharmacologic interventions need to be explored, including patient empowerment. Improving patient knowledge of diabetes may ultimately improve glycemic control. To test this hypothesis, we compared patients9 diabetes knowledge with their glycemic control. Methods The Michigan Diabetes Knowledge Test, designed by the University of Michigan, was administered to patients with type 2 diabetes at three University of New Mexico primary care clinics. Patient records were reviewed. The most recent hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) value was recorded. The data were analyzed using linear regression analysis. Results Seventy-seven patients completed surveys and had HbA1c values available. Only questions 1 to 14 of the 23-question survey were used because they pertained specifically to type 2 diabetes. HbA1c was inversely correlated with the number of questions answered correctly on the test (r = -.337, p Conclusions These results demonstrate that an inverse linear relationship exists between performance on this diabetes test and HbA1c values. Improvement in patient knowledge of diabetes and the importance of treatment may indeed improve glycemic control and ultimately decrease complications. Studies aimed at empowering patients with disease knowledge may help control the ramifications of the growing diabetes epidemic.
Off-diagonal disorder and X-ray edges

Abstract The combined effects of off-diagonal disorder and electron-hole pair production (the X-ray edge effect) are studied for a one-dimensional Anderson model of a liquid metal with a half-full band.
Counterstreaming electron-beam beat-wave accelerator.

The beat-wave excitation of plasma waves in a counterstreaming electron beam is studied, and the consequences for particle acceleration are discussed. Both the plasma-wave length and the pump-depletion length can be significantly longer than that in the plasma beat-wave accelerator. Thus the single-stage energy gain of the accelerated particles is greatly increased, whereas the injection energy for particle trapping is greatly reduced; this allows the possibility of ion acceleration.
Ionic hopping defended.

In the whirlwind of cloning, mutagenesis, and, suddenly, structure that the ion channel field has been riding for the past 15 yr, it is easy to forget that we still don't have a satisfactory view of that most basic task carried out by these proteins: ion permeation. The diffusion of ions through the
Entitlement and conscientiousness in the prediction of organizational deviance

Abstract Responding to Wu and LeBreton’s (2011) call for further study, this paper examines dispositional predictors of organizational deviance. In a sample of 428 participants, self-report data were collected anonymously. Using hierarchical regression, the dispositional variables of entitlement and conscientiousness were similarly strong and statistically significant predictors of organizational deviance. The total variance explained in deviance by these variables and some demographic variables was .31. Additionally, the specificity matching principle suggests that narrow band traits like entitlement are better at predicting narrowly measured behaviors like deviance than are broad band traits like conscientiousness. Using dominance analysis, entitlement was a stronger predictor of organizational deviance than is conscientiousness.
Multivariate correlates of adult blood pressures in nine North American populations: The lipid research clinics prevalence study

Abstract The associations of seven variables—age, education, body mass index, alcohol consumption, cigarette smoking, regular exercise, and gonadal hormone use in women—with systolic and diastolic blood pressure were studied in 4,780 white adult men and women in nine North American populations. We chose these variables because, with the exception of age and to some extent education, they are all potentially amenable to preventive intervention. We employed multiple linear regression to determine which variables were independently associated with blood pressure. Age was positively associated with systolic and diastolic pressure in men and younger women, and with systolic but not diastolic pressure in older women. Education was not consistently associated with blood pressure. Body mass index and alcohol consumption were positively associated with systolic and diastolic pressure, while cigarette smoking was negatively associated with systolic and diastolic pressure. Regular exercise was negatively associated with systolic pressure in women and diastolic pressure in men. Gonadal hormone use in younger women, mostly oral contraceptives, was positively associated with systolic pressure. Gonadal hormone use, mostly postmenopausal estrogens, in older women showed a weak positive association with systolic pressure but this association was not statistically significant. We conclude that several potentially modifiable variables have independent relationships to systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
Efficiently Generating the Ballistic Phase of Human-Like Aimed Movement

Human-like movement can be efficiently generated by driving a damped inertial plant toward a fixed target with position-based control, then switching to conventional feedback control as the desired endpoint is approached. Key characteristics of human motion, not easily replicated with traditional control architectures, result from tracking a position-based actuation template derived from human trials. Computation of the applied forcing function requires only linear scaling of this template, or displacement-normalized actuation program (DNAP). Simulated ballistic movements generated with the proposed method are shown to be consistent with human subject kinematic trajectories.
Translational friction of a particle inside a vesicle studied by an extended shell method

The translational friction of a particle inside a rigid hollow sphere is determined in this work. This should be important in model studies of solute diffusion in cells or vesicles. An extended shell algorithm is developed and used in which the cell or vesicle is modeled as a large number of beads. In the extended algorithm, the shell is divided into groups of beads and the assumption is made that the force exerted by each bead on the solvent is constant within a group. The algorithm is tested by using it to determine the translational friction constants of spheres and prolate ellipsoids modeled as shells of beads.