cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Hydrogen-related defects and the role of metal additives in the kinetics of complex hydrides: A first-principles study

We report first-principles studies of hydrogen-related point defects and impurities in ${\text{LiBH}}_{4}$ and ${\text{Li}}_{4}{\text{BN}}_{3}{\text{H}}_{10}$, two promising materials for hydrogen storage. In both systems, hydrogen vacancies and interstitials are found to be positively or negatively charged, and hence their formation energies are Fermi-level dependent. One can therefore tailor the formation energies of these point defects (hence the kinetics of the systems) by shifting the Fermi level. This can be accomplished by adding appropriate impurities that are electrically active into the systems. We have identified a number of transition-metal impurities that are effective in shifting the Fermi level of ${\text{LiBH}}_{4}$ and ${\text{Li}}_{4}{\text{BN}}_{3}{\text{H}}_{10}$. A comparison of our calculations with experimental results for the effects of addition of impurities on the kinetics of ${\text{LiBH}}_{4}$ and ${\text{Li}}_{4}{\text{BN}}_{3}{\text{H}}_{10}$ shows qualitative agreement, providing validation for our interpretation of the results and for our proposed model for enhancement of kinetics.
FEV1/FVC Ratio of 70% Misclassifies Patients With Obstruction at the Extremes of Age

Background The American Thoracic Society recommends using the lower limit of normal (LLN) method to diagnose obstructive lung disease. However, few studies have investigated the clinical relevance of these recommendations. We compared the LLN derived from available data sets to a fixed ratio (FEV1/FVC, Methods FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC ratio, age, race, sex, height, and weight were recorded from 1,503 pulmonary function tests. Predicted values were calculated using the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Study data set (Hankinson), and reference values from studies by Crapo, Knudson, and Morris. In addition, the LLN of the FEV1/FVC ratio was calculated for the Hankinson and Crapo reference values. Results The number of studies interpreted as obstructed varied from 37% using the Hankinson data set to 55% using the 75% fixed ratio method. Comparing the LLN method vs the 70% fixed ratio method resulted in 7.5% (Hankinson LLN vs 70% fixed) and 6.9% (Crapo LLN vs 70% fixed), which were discordant results. Age was the strongest predictor of discordance, and 16% of subjects > 74 years of age had discordant results comparing Hankinson values to the 70% fixed method. Conclusion At the extremes of age and height, a large number of spirometry test results will be interpreted as showing an obstructive defect if a 70% fixed ratio method is used for interpretation compared with the LLN derived from the Hankinson data set.
Mutations induced by ultraviolet light

The different ultraviolet (UV) wavelength components, UVA (320-400 nm), UVB (280-320 nm), and UVC (200-280 nm), have distinct mutagenic properties. A hallmark of UVC and UVB mutagenesis is the high frequency of transition mutations at dipyrimidine sequences containing cytosine. In human skin cancers, about 35% of all mutations in the p53 gene are transitions at dipyrimidines within the sequence 5'-TCG and 5'-CCG, and these are localized at several mutational hotspots. Since 5'-CG sequences are methylated along the p53 coding sequence in human cells, these mutations may be derived from sunlight-induced pyrimidine dimers forming at sequences that contain 5-methylcytosine. Cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPDs) form preferentially at dipyrimidines containing 5-methylcytosine when cells are irradiated with UVB or sunlight. In order to define the contribution of 5-methylcytosine to sunlight-induced mutations, the lacI and cII transgenes in mouse fibroblasts were used as mutational targets. After 254 nm UVC irradiation, only 6-9% of the base substitutions were at dipyrimidines containing 5-methylcytosine. However, 24-32% of the solar light-induced mutations were at dipyrimidines that contain 5-methylcytosine and most of these mutations were transitions. Thus, CPDs forming preferentially at dipyrimidines with 5-methylcytosine are responsible for a considerable fraction of the mutations induced by sunlight in mammalian cells. Using mouse cell lines harboring photoproduct-specific photolyases and mutational reporter genes, we showed that CPDs (rather than 6-4 photoproducts or other lesions) are responsible for the great majority of UVB-induced mutations. An important component of UVB mutagenesis is the deamination of cytosine and 5-methylcytosine within CPDs. The mutational specificity of long-wave UVA (340-400 nm) is distinct from that of the shorter wavelength UV and is characterized mainly by G to T transversions presumably arising through mechanisms involving oxidized DNA bases. We also discuss the role of DNA damage-tolerant DNA polymerases in UV lesion bypass and mutagenesis.
Two-dimensional holes at high magnetic fields

Abstract The magnetotransport properties of two-dimensional holes in GaAsGaAlAs heterostructures are reviewed, with emphasis in the high field regime. Temperature dependence measurements of the 1 3 and 2 3 states of the fractional quantum Hall effect yield activation energies comparable to those of 2D electrons, but that are not directly correlated with low-temperature mobilities.
Pseudo-first-order attachment rates of thermal electrons by SF6 in different carrier gases☆

Abstract The thermal electron attachment rates of SF6 in electron swarm experiments using various carrier gases have been investigated. The rates depend upon the nature of the carrier gas. Ion-carrier gas interactions to describe these results are discussed.
Stereospecific synthesis of γ-butyrolactones from acyclic vinyl sulfoxides: an asymmetric synthesis of optically pure oak lactones

Abstract The sulfoxide-directed lactonization of several trisubstituted vinyl sulfoxides with dichloroketene proceeds in a completely stereospecific manner. The lactonization of (E) -3 (R) - p -tolylsulfinyloctene occurs with complete enantiospecificity to produce a precursor for the synthesis of optically pure oak lactones.
Behavioral contrasts between male cynomolgus and lion-tailed macaques.

Evidence indicates that primate species differ not only in social structure and concordant social propensities, but also in their approach toward novel objects, environments, and procedures. These differences in response dispositions have been described as being based on differences in characteristic stances toward the environment, also called temperaments. This report extends previous comparative primate research by describing behavioral contrasts observed among males of two macaque species, liontailed and cynomolgus macaques. The lion-tails demonstrated more interest in other animals, more vigilance and instrumental behavior, and more readily adapted to training to enter a small and unfamilar cage than the cynomolgus. These results suggest temperamental differences between the two species. Lion-tails may be characterized as bold, curious, and instrumental in their approach to the environment, while cynomolgus may be characterized as more passive or "reserved". These differences may form the basis for the well-developed sensorimotor abilities observed in liontails such as the manufacture and use of tools, and may also be related to their highly omnivorous diet. © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Continuity of Family Physician Care - Is it more Important for Older People and the Chronically-Ill?

Purpose To investigate the association of continuity of family physician (FP) care with health care services by age-group and chronic-disease status. Methods Canadian Community Health Survey (2000/01) data were linked to administrative physician and hospital data via health insurance number. The Continuity of Care Index was used to classify survey participants as having either low or high continuity of FP care. Participants were also classified by age ( Results Among the chronically-ill, a lower proportion of those in the high continuity group had specialist visits compared to those in the low continuity group (p 0.05). When analyzed by age, the proportion of participants having specialist visits was lower in the high continuity group for both age groups (p Conclusion Findings suggest that: 1) high continuity of family physician care is associated with decreased specialist utilization in the chronically-ill but not in the healthy; 2) high continuity of family physician care is associated with decreased specialist utilization in both younger and older age groups; and 3) continuity is not associated with hospitalization.
Adaptive channel equalization using generalized order statistic filters

The Ll-filter is applied to the problem of channel equalization. The analysis includes simulations with various additive noise densities ranging from the purely Gaussian case to an impulsive case. The Kronecker product form of the Ll-filter requires only linear computational complexity at each time step (the same as the FIR) and is therefore a very attractive alternative to the FIR. This is because the exact least square (LS) formulation demonstrates that especially in the impulsive environment the Kronecker can do better than the FIR. The adaptive Kronecker Ll-filter is compared to the adaptive FIR, for typical cases and demonstrates good potential for field application of these filters in adaptive equalization. Finally, adaptation stepsize parameter selection implementations are discussed. >
Effects of electrochemical treatment on selected physical properties of a clayey silt

Abstract Experimental results which the authors have obtained show that electrochemical treatment using iron pipes for both the anode and the cathode can have a pronounced stabilizing effect on clayey silt. Soils were strengthened as a result of application of direct electrical current together with the introduction of calcium chloride, followed by aluminum sulfate. Increases in cohesion of the order of 150–500 lb/sq. ft. are possible. The beneficial effects were not reduced by subsequent water encroachment. Formation of new minerals in former voids and resulting cementation of the treated soil appears to be the main factor causing increased soil density and cohesion.
Imaging of fetal chest masses

Prenatal imaging with high-resolution US and rapid acquisition MRI plays a key role in the accurate diagnosis of congenital chest masses. Imaging has enhanced our understanding of the natural history of fetal lung masses, allowing for accurate prediction of outcome, parental counseling, and planning of pregnancy and newborn management. This paper will focus on congenital bronchopulmonary malformations, which account for the vast majority of primary lung masses in the fetus. In addition, anomalies that mimic masses and less common causes of lung masses will be discussed.
Demonstration of a tunable broadband coupler

We analyzed and fabricated a novel coupler which possesses wavelength flattened response and splitting ratio tuning capability. The fabricated coupler showed a flattened response to wavelength over 50 nm bandwidth and the coupling power to the cross port can be tuned from 10% to 70%.
Executive summary of the national institute of neurological disorders and stroke conference on emergency neurologic clinical trials network

On March 17 and 18, 2004, the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke sponsored a conference to explore the advisability of establishing a multicenter network designed to perform clinical trials in emergency neurologic conditions. The Emergency Neurology Clinical Trials Network concept was discussed by 25 clinicians and scientists from multiple disciplines. The goal was to improve the overall functional outcome for patients with acute neurologic emergencies. The participants discussed various aspects necessary in evaluating the potential of such a network, including the organization structure, funding, cost-effectiveness, and clinical conditions to be studied. A neurologic emergencies network that is not disease specific would open opportunities for clinical research that would facilitate rapid effective treatment of emergency conditions and lead to improved patient outcomes. In addition, the cost savings realized through economies of scale of such a network would allow more research to be performed at a lower cost.
Rehabilitation applications in caring for patients with Pick’s disease and frontotemporal dementias

The basic principles of rehabilitation philosophy relevant to the care of patients with neurodegenerative diseases, specifically Pick’s disease and frontotemporal dementias, are briefly defined. These principles are illustrated by the case study of a patient with a clinical diagnosis of Pick’s disease.
A balancing view: an individualized approach to high-grade dysplasia is key: esophagectomy, surveillance, or endoscopic therapy should all be considered.

A BALANCING VIEW: An Individualized Approach to High-Grade Dysplasia Is Key: Esophagectomy, Surveillance, or Endoscopic Therapy Should All Be Considered
Qualitative neuropsychological measures: normative data on executive functioning tests from the Framingham offspring study.

Background/Study Context: Studies have found that executive functioning is affected early in the pathophysiological processes associated with Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia. There also exists a range of functioning on executive tasks during normal aging. Although qualitative data are commonly utilized in clinical practice for evaluating subtle changes in cognitive functioning and diagnostic discernment, it is not clear whether error responses used in clinical practice are also evident as normative behavior. Methods: As part of an extensive battery of neuropsychological tests, executive functioning measures (i.e., Trail Making Test Part B, Similarities and Verbal Fluency tests) were administered via standardized administration prescript. Regression analyses were used to determine associations between vascular aging indices and qualitative performance measures. Descriptive statistics are included for 1907 cognitively normal individuals. Results: Results suggest that although qualitative errors do...
Aortic Valve Replacement and Mitral Valve Repair with Allograft

Techniques of repair of defects in the anterior leaflet of the mitral valve and replacement of the aortic valve using allograft are presented. The case history and operative procedure of a reconstructive operation that did not require anticoagulant therapy after surgery are described for three adult patients. Mitral valve defects were repaired using the anterior leaflet of the mitral valve of the allograft. The aortic valve or entire root was replaced with the aortic allograft. The aortic/mitral allograft should be considered as an alternative to replacement of the aortic and mitral valves with prostheses in selected patients.
Percutaneous closure of a ruptured sinus of Valsalva aneurysm using the Amplatzer duct occluder

Sinus of Valsalva aneurysms are rare congenital anomalies. When they rupture, they can lead to the development of biventricular failure as a result of systemic-pulmonary shunting. Surgical repair has been the traditional treatment for these aneurysms. We present a case of a 54 year old man in whom a ruptured sinus of Valsalva aneurysm was successfully closed using a catheter-based approach with the Amplatzer Duct Occluder.
Assessing the assessment: how institutions administered, interpreted, and used SAILS

Purpose – This paper seeks to address the administration of Standardized Assessment of Information Literacy Skills (SAILS), the use of SAILS report data, and respondent perceptions of the utility of SAILS at institutions that comprise the “All Institutions Benchmark” – the institutions which participated in the SAILS testing through the Spring 2007 testing period.Design/methodology/approach – An online survey was used to collect qualitative and quantitative data for the study. Overall response rate for the survey was 63.9 percent. Disregarding unusable responses, the response rate for the data analysis was 57.8 percent.Findings – The large majority of institutions used convenience sampling in administering SAILS. With regard to the SAILS report data, there are indications that those institutions that received support for data analysis were more likely to find the results useful; the utility of the SAILS report data can also be correlated with institutional type.Practical implications – Results from this s...
Adsorption of amino acids on porous polymeric adsorbents—II. Intraparticle mass transfer

Mass transfer data are obtained for the adsorption of phenylalanine in porous polymeric adsorbents with different pore structures and functionalities. In most cases, the data are adequately described by assuming that hindered diffusion in liquid-filled pores is the controlling mass transfer mechanism. For these adsorbents, the ratio of particle porosity and tortuosity factor is found to be essentially constant as a function of temperature and composition of the liquid phase. The tortuosity factors are somewhat larger for the smaller pore materials than for the larger-pore ones. However, in the case of a nearly microporous adsorbent, the diffusivity appears to be dependent on temperature to an extent which is not consistent with the assumption of diffusion in rigid, liquid-filled pores.
Ancient Maya Astronomical Tables from Xultun, Guatemala

Maya astronomical tables are recognized in bark-paper books from the Late Postclassic period (1300 to 1521 C.E.), but Classic period (200 to 900 C.E.) precursors have not been found. In 2011, a small painted room was excavated at the extensive ancient Maya ruins of Xultun, Guatemala, dating to the early 9th century C.E. The walls and ceiling of the room are painted with several human figures. Two walls also display a large number of delicate black, red, and incised hieroglyphs. Many of these hieroglyphs are calendrical in nature and relate astronomical computations, including at least two tables concerning the movement of the Moon, and perhaps Mars and Venus. These apparently represent early astronomical tables and may shed light on the later books.
A scheduling algorithm for a computer assisted registration system

This paper presents the scheduling algorithm used in the Computer Assisted Registration System at the University of Tennessee. Notation is defined and the logic of the algorithm necessary to implement educational policy is described. Results from the first term's implementation are presented.
Point-of-care patient self-monitoring of oral vitamin K antagonist therapy

Successful therapy with vitamin K antagonists requires maintaining a patient in the therapeutic international normalized ratio (INR) range for the particular indication under treatment. Achieving this is dependent on the model of dose management under which the therapy is provided. Most patients in the United States are managed by their individual physician and the time in therapeutic range (TTR) is often low. Patients who have monitored their therapy at home with a point-of-care INR monitor have demonstrated an ability to achieve a high rate of TTR as documented in clinical trials. Recently, similar or even better rates of TTR have been demonstrated in patients performing home monitoring outside of a clinical trial. These findings support the recommendations to implement home monitoring in those who have demonstrated competency in self-management strategies.
Pictorial review: principles of double-contrast pharyngography.

This pictorial essay will explain how to obtain quality double-contrast radiographs during pharyngography, present principles of the interpretation of double-contrast images of the pharynx, and show examples of benign and malignant pharyngeal tumors.
Pvmgeant- a Parallel Simulation Code for the Clas Detector At Cebaf

Due to the need for extensive and detailed simulations of the CEBAF Large Acceptance Spectrometer CLAS, the Monte-Carlo code CLASGeant was transferred to a heterogeneous computing cluster and has been linked to the Parallel Virtual Machine PVM message-passing library. The resulting simulation package, PvmGeant, achieves an almost linear speedup in physics-event simulation. This article describes modifications to the original GEANT code, its integration with PVM, and performance tests that were conducted at the comput ing cluster at The Supercomputing Computations Re search Institute at Florida State University. Particular attention has been given to measuring the effect of different data structures on the cost of network com munication between nodes.
Commentary to 'short-term outcome of mild isolated antenatal hydronephrosis conservatively managed'.

A major limitation of this observational study is the lack of a comparison group during the study period. A small comparative study prior to the one they are describing does not qualify. Observational studies provide weaker empirical evidence than do experimental studies because of the potential for large confounding biases. Theother limitation is their sample size. Based on the incidence of UTI on and off prophylaxisprovidedby theauthors (8%and13%), thenumber of children required in each arm would be over 900 (alpha 0.05 and power 0.8). The value of this cohort study is to provide preliminary evidence that can be used as a basis for designing a stronger experimental study, such as a randomized controlled study, to answer the question they posed.
Scientists, engineers and Wildman Whitehouse : measurement and credibility in early cable telegraphy

Between 1856 and 1858, a group of entrepreneurs and engineers led by the American Cyrus Field and the Englishmen J. W. Brett, Charles Bright and E. O. Wildman Whitehouse sought to lay a telegraph cable across the Atlantic from Ireland to Newfoundland. Their projected cable would be far longer, far more expensive, and far more difficult to lay than any previously attempted; that such an ambitious undertaking was launched and quickly drew financial backing was testimony to the technological enthusiasm of the mid-Victorian era. After many setbacks, the cable was successfully completed early in August 1858. The first messages it carried were met with rapturous excitement on both sides of the Atlantic – making its failure after just a few weeks of fitful service all the more humiliating. Identifying the causes of that failure, and assigning blame for them, became crucial to ensuring the future of transoceanic cable telegraphy. Were the causes of the failure intrinsic to the enterprise, and the vision of a network of transoceanic cables no more than an unrealistic dream? Or did the collapse of the cable result simply from a series of unfortunate and correctable errors? How those questions were answered in the autumn of 1858 would go far toward determining the prospects not only for renewing the Atlantic project, but also for any attempt to extend submarine cables more widely around the world.
Jumbo Tornado Outbreak of 3 April 1974

General meteorological data concerning the Jumbo tornado outbreak are presented. In terms of tornado number and total path mileage, it was more extensive than all known outbreaks. Most of the intense tornadoes avoided the large cities, however. Turn information is analyzed in detail. Left-turn tornadoes were more intense than right-turn tornadoes. Many important phenomena were observed, such as multiple suction vortices, family tornadoes, and cousin tornadoes spawned from interacting tornado cyclones. Aerial survey data will aid greatly in the solution of various scales of rotating motions, leading to improved prediction and warning of tornadoes.
Exact boundary controllability of a shallow intrinsic shell model

We consider a variant of a Koiter shell model based on the intrinsic geometry methods of Michael Delfour and Jean-Paul Zolesio. This model, derived in [J. Cagnol, I. Lasiecka, C. Lebiedzik, J.-P. Zolesio, Uniform stability in structural acoustic models with flexible curved walls, J. Differential Equations 186 (1) (2003) 88–121], relies heavily on the oriented distance function which describes the geometry. Here, we establish continuous observability estimates in the Dirichlet case with an explicit observability time, under an additional shallowness assumption and a checkable geometric condition. This yields (by duality) exact controllability for this class of intrinsically modelled shells.
Human memory reconsolidation can be explained using the temporal context model.

Recent work by Hupbach, Gomez, Hardt, and Nadel (Learning & Memory, 14, 47–53, 2007) and Hupbach, Gomez, and Nadel (Memory, 17, 502–510, 2009) suggests that episodic memory for a previously studied list can be updated to include new items, if participants are reminded of the earlier list just prior to learning a new list. The key finding from the Hupbach studies was an asymmetric pattern of intrusions, whereby participants intruded numerous items from the second list when trying to recall the first list, but not viceversa. Hupbach et al. (2007; 2009) explained this pattern in terms of a cellular reconsolidation process, whereby first-list memory is rendered labile by the reminder and the labile memory is then updated to include items from the second list. Here, we show that the temporal context model of memory, which lacks a cellular reconsolidation process, can account for the asymmetric intrusion effect, using well-established principles of contextual reinstatement and item–context binding.
Localization of Monoamine Oxidase A and B mRNA in the Rat Brain by In Situ Hybridization

Monoamine oxidases A and B (MAOA and MAOB) are the major catabolic isoenzymes of catecholamines and serotonin in the mammalian brain. Although the distribution of the monoamine oxidase protein has been mapped by ligand binding and immunohistochemistry, the sites of MAOA and MAOB synthesis have not been precisely determined. In this study, we used in situ hybridization to visualize MAOA and MAOB mRNA in the rat brain by using specific cDNA and oligonucleotide probes. MAOA mRNA was localized in major monoaminergic cell groups, such as the dorsal vagal complex, the C1/A1 groups, the locus ceruleus, the raphe nuclei, the substantia nigra, and the ventral tegmental area. MAOA mRNA was also found in forebrain structures, such as the cortex, the hippocampus, the thalamus, and the hypothalamus. In contrast to the distribution of MAOA mRNA, high levels of MAOB mRNA were present in only three brain regions: the area postrema, the subfornical organ, and the dorsal raphe. The in situ visualization of MAO mRNA demonstrates that MAOA mRNA synthesis is wide spread in many catecholaminergic and serotonergic cell groups, whereas MAOB mRNA synthesis is far more discrete and limited. The different expression patterns of MAOA and MAOB suggests that may also have different physiological functions.
Waterpipe cafes in Baltimore, Maryland: Carbon monoxide, particulate matter, and nicotine exposure

Waterpipe smoking has been growing in popularity in the United States and worldwide. Most tobacco control regulations remain limited to cigarettes. Few studies have investigated waterpipe tobacco smoke exposures in a real world setting. We measured carbon monoxide (CO), particulate matter (PM)2.5, and airborne nicotine concentrations in seven waterpipe cafes in the greater Baltimore area. Area air samples were collected between two and five hours, with an average sampling duration of three hours. Waterpipe smoking behaviors were observed at each venue. Indoor air samplers for CO, PM2.5, and airborne nicotine were placed in the main seating area 1–2 m above the floor. Indoor airborne concentrations of PM2.5 and CO were markedly elevated in waterpipe cafes and exceeded concentrations that were observed in cigarette smoking bars. Air nicotine concentrations, although not as high as in venues that allow cigarette smoking, were markedly higher than in smoke-free bars and restaurants. Concentrations of PM approached occupational exposure limits and CO exceeded occupational exposure guidelines suggesting that worker protection measures need to be considered. This study adds to the literature indicating that both employees and patrons of waterpipe venues are at increased risk from complex exposures to secondhand waterpipe smoke.
Assessing the Battery Cost at Which Plug-In Hybrid Medium-Duty Parcel Delivery Vehicles Become Cost-Effective

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) validated diesel-conventional and diesel-hybrid medium-duty parcel delivery vehicle models to evaluate petroleum reductions and cost implications of hybrid and plug-in hybrid diesel variants. The hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants are run on a field data-derived design matrix to analyze the effect of drive cycle, distance, engine downsizing, battery replacements, and battery energy on fuel consumption and lifetime cost. For an array of diesel fuel costs, the battery cost per kilowatt-hour at which the hybridized configuration becomes cost-effective is calculated. This builds on a previous analysis that found the fuel savings from medium duty plug-in hybrids more than offset the vehicles' incremental price under future battery and fuel cost projections, but that they seldom did so under present day cost assumptions in the absence of purchase incentives. The results also highlight the importance of understanding the application's drive cycle specific daily distance and kinetic intensity.
Emotional numbing in posttraumatic stress disorder: current and future research directions.

Objective: Despite being understudied and poorly understood relative to the chronic fear, anxiety and other aversive emotional states that occur in the immediate aftermath of trauma, emotional numbing has become a core defining feature of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).Method: This paper seeks to briefly review the literature bearing on these seemingly disparate emotional responses to trauma as well as theoretical accounts of emotional numbing that have been proffered to date. We then offer an alternative theory of posttraumatic emotional functioning and review empirical support for this model.Result: The experience of trauma produces very intense emotions such as overwhelming fear, horror, and anxiety, and these reactions can linger for a lifetime. Many trauma survivors also report restrictions in their emotional experience – a phenomenon most commonly referred to as emotional numbing. In contrast to previous accounts of posttraumatic emotional functioning our model posits that individuals with PTS...
Mathematical Programming in American Companies: A Sample Survey

Numerous articles in the last two decades have demonstrated how mathematical programming techniques can be applied to a wide spectrum of problems in business. It is the purpose of this paper to discuss the results of a sample survey which provides partial and tentative answers to the following four queries: 1 Who is adopting mathematical programming models? 2 What has been the quality of the results? 3 In which specific areas have such models been used? and 4 Why have firms not adopted mathematical programming techniques?
Celtic Agreement, The Avoid Pronoun Principle and Binding Theory

Agreement in Breton exhibits two major features which are striking. First, both verbs and prepositions are inflected for agreement. Second, verbs and prepositions fail to inflect for person and number when they appear with an expressed subject or prepositional object respectively. On the surface, agreement in Breton appears to be an elaborate, language specific affair, but in the second section of this chapter I argue that the distribution of agreement in Breton can be seen to follow from UG if we recognize two AGRs in this language, an overt and a null AGR. The former is associated with phonologically overt (or synthetic) inflection, while the latter occurs as the phonologically null (or analytic) agreement. The distribution of these two AGR element can be attributed to the Avoid Pronoun Principle, which treats the overt inflection as a pronominal to be avoided. Breton is special only in that it inflects prepositions as well as verbs, and makes use of two AGR elements.
Evaluation of Digital Photography from Model Aircraft for Remote Sensing of Crop Biomass and Nitrogen Status

Remote sensing is a key technology for precision agriculture to assess actual crop conditions. Commercial, high-spatial-resolution imagery from aircraft and satellites are expensive so the costs may outweigh the benefits of the information. Hobbyists have been acquiring aerial photography from radio-controlled model aircraft; we evaluated these very-low-cost, very high-resolution digital photography for use in estimating nutrient status of corn and crop biomass of corn, alfalfa, and soybeans. Based on conclusions from previous work, we optimized an aerobatic model aircraft for acquiring pictures using a consumer-oriented digital camera. Colored tarpaulins were used to calibrate the images; there were large differences in digital number (DN) for the same reflectance because of differences in the exposure settings selected by the digital camera. To account for differences in exposure a Normalized Green–Red Difference Index [(NGRDI = (Green DN − Red DN)/(Green DN + Red DN)] was used; this index was linearly related to the normalized difference of the green and red reflectances, respectively. For soybeans, alfalfa and corn, dry biomass from zero to 120 g m−2 was linearly correlated to NGRDI, but for biomass greater than 150 g m−2 in corn and soybean, NGRDI did not increase further. In a fertilization experiment with corn, NGRDI did not show differences in nitrogen status, even though areas of low nitrogen status were clearly visible on late-season digital photographs. Simulations from the SAIL (Scattering of Arbitrarily Inclined Leaves) canopy radiative transfer model verified that NGRDI would be sensitive to biomass before canopy closure and that variations in leaf chlorophyll concentration would not be detectable. There are many advantages of model aircraft platforms for precision agriculture; currently, the imagery is best visually interpreted. Automated analysis of within-field variability requires more work on sensors that can be used with model aircraft platforms.
On automorphism groups of certain 2-(v,3,2) designs induced by group actions

Abstract Various topological invariants associated to 2-( v , 3, 2) designs can be used to ascertain the structure of the automorphism groups of these designs. The v -set on which the design is defined is V = G or {∞ ∪ Z n where G is an abelian group. The designs studied are generalizations of cyclic designs.
Cryptographic strength of ssl/tls servers: current and recent practices

The Secure Socket Layer (SSL) and its variant, Transport Layer Security (TLS), are used toward ensuring server security. In this paper, we characterize the cryptographic strength of public servers running SSL/TLS. We present a tool developed for this purpose, the Probing SSL Security Tool (PSST), and evaluate over 19,000 servers. We expose the great diversity in the levels of cryptographic strength that is supported on the Internet. Some of our discouraging results show that most sites still support the insecure SSL 2.0, weak export-level grades of encryption ciphers, or weak RSA key strengths. We also observe encouraging behavior such as sensible default choices by servers when presented with multiple options, the quick adoption of AES (more than half the servers support strong key AES as their default choice), and the use of strong RSA key sizes of 1024 bits and above. Comparing results of running our tool over the last two years points to a positive trend that is moving in the right direction, though perhaps not as quickly as it should.
High-Performance Small-Radius Half-Racetrack-Ring-Resonator InAlGaAs Quantum Well Laser Diodes Fabricated via Non-Selective Wet Oxidation

Utilizing the high index contrast of a deep-etched, non-selectively oxidized AlGaAs/InAlGaAs GRINSCH heterostructure, half-racetrack-ring resonator lasers with peak output powers of 239 mW for a r=25 mum bend radius, and 40 mW for r=8 mum, are demonstrated
Induction of human spermine oxidase SMO(PAOh1) is regulated at the levels of new mRNA synthesis, mRNA stabilization and newly synthesized protein.

The oxidation of polyamines induced by antitumour polyamine analogues has been associated with tumour response to specific agents. The human spermine oxidase, SMO(PAOh1), is one enzyme that may play a direct role in the cellular response to the antitumour polyamine analogues. In the present study, the induction of SMO(PAOh1) enzyme activity by CPENSpm [N1-ethyl-N11-(cyclopropyl)methyl-4,8,diazaundecane] is demonstrated to be a result of newly synthesized mRNA and protein. Inhibition of new RNA synthesis by actinomycin D inhibits both the appearance of SMO(PAOh1) mRNA and enzyme activity. Similarly, inhibition of newly synthesized protein with cycloheximide prevents analogue-induced enzyme activity. Half-life determinations indicate that stabilization of SMO(PAOh1) protein does not play a significant role in analogue-induced activity. However, half-life experiments using actinomycin D indicate that CPENSpm treatment not only increases mRNA expression, but also leads to a significant increase in mRNA half-life (17.1 and 8.8 h for CPENSpm-treated cells and control respectively). Using reporter constructs encompassing the SMO(PAOh1) promoter region, a 30–90% increase in transcription is observed after exposure to CPENSpm. The present results are consistent with the hypothesis that analogue-induced expression of SMO(PAOh1) is a result of increased transcription and stabilization of SMO(PAOh1) mRNA, leading to increased protein production and enzyme activity. These data indicate that the major level of control of SMO(PAOh1) expression in response to polyamine analogues exposure is at the level of mRNA.
Autoradiographic determination of neurotransmitter receptor distributions in the cerebral and cerebellar cortices.

Light microscopic autoradiographical localization of drug and neurotransmitter receptors provides investigators with a tool to determine the sites of drug action with a high degree of anatomical resolution. In the cortex, where there is a distinct laminar organization, the differential distribution of receptors can be determined. We have found that differences in the density of specific receptors exist between layers of the cerebral cortex. Our observations include the localization of muscarinic cholinergic, benzodiazepine, opiate, neurotensin, histamine-H1, alpha-adrenergic, beta-adrenergic, and high-affinity GABA receptors in the cerebral cortex. Of this list of neurotransmitters only significant concentrations of benzodiazepine, GABA, and beta-adrenergic receptors were found in the cerebellar cortex. Receptor localizations such as these can be coupled with information from immunohistochemical studies to provide the basis for future experimentation in order to define neuro-transmitter-specific pathways in the cerebral and cerebellar cortices.
Subcortical oligodendrocyte- and astrocyte-associated gene expression in subjects with schizophrenia, major depression and bipolar disorder

Deficits in the expression of oligodendrocyte and myelin genes have been described in numerous cortical regions in schizophrenia and affective disorders; however, relatively little attention has been paid to subcortical structures. Here we employed quantitative real time PCR to examine the mRNA expression of 17 genes that are expressed by oligodendrocyte precursors (OLPs) and their derivatives, including astrocytes. Four subcortical regions were examined (the anteroventral (AV) and mediodorsal thalamic nuclei (MDN), internal capsule (IC) and putamen (Put)) in postmortem material from subjects (age 25-68 at time of death) with no known psychiatric history (NCs) as well as in subjects with schizophrenia (SZ), major depressive disorder (MDD), and bipolar disorder (BPD). In all regions examined, genes expressed after the terminal differentiation of oligodendrocytes tended to have lower levels of mRNA expression in subjects with SZ compared to NCs. These differences were statistically significant across regions for four genes (CNP, GALC, MAG and MOG) and approached significance for TF. No genes were under expressed in MDD. Only TF was under expressed in BPD and only in the IC. In contrast, two astrocyte-associated genes (GFAP and ALDH1L1) had higher mean expression levels across regions in all psychiatric groups relative to NCs. These differences reached statistical significance for SZ and MDD relative to NCs. There were no age by diagnosis interactions. The majority of age regressions had negative slopes for the expression of oligodendrocyte-associated genes. GFAP but not ALDH1L1 expression was significantly and positively correlated with age in the MDN, AV and Put. Across subject groups the expression of both astrocyte genes was highly correlated with cumulative neuroleptic exposure in all regions except the Put. Significant positive correlations were also observed in some regions between cumulative neuroleptic exposure and the expression of genes associated with mature oligodendrocytes as well as with bipotential OLPs. Multiple negative correlations were observed between the mRNA expression of astrocyte genes and genes expressed by terminally differentiated oligodendrocytes. These data are discussed in the context of myelin turnover and potential effects of psychiatric illness as well as medications on the developmental fate of OLPs.
Address block location using color and texture analysis

Abstract Address block location on mail pieces is an important task in postal automation. Unlike personal or business letters which have high degree of global spatial structure among a limited number of entities, mail pieces of magazines usually have an address block printed on a white label which can be pasted in an arbitrary position. Graphics and other printed text on magazine covers also make the address block location problem complicated. In this paper, we present a simple method for automatically locating the address block on color magazine covers based on both color and texture analysis. First, we use a simple color thresholding technique to extract white regions which may contain an address block. Then, a texture segmentation method based on Gabor filters is used to find text regions (including the address) inside the white regions. These text regions are candidates for the address block. Simple heuristics are used to identify the correct address block among these candidates. This method is invariant to rotation and scale of the magazine cover. Experimental results on low resolution (50 dpi) images of several magazine covers are provided to demonstrate the applicability of our method.
An algorithm for automatically mapping an arbitrary 2D environment

This paper presents a method for automatically generating a 2D obstacle map of an environment using a robot or team of robots. The algorithm is adaptable to a variety of robotic platforms and presents an iterative solution for determining the map. Its primary contributions to the field of autonomous mapping include the abstraction of specific robot hardware from the mapping algorithm and the integration of obstacle avoidance, path finding, and destination selection. The map is sampled multiple times by each robot to filter anomalous data and to correct for inaccuracies in the operation of the robots. This paper details the algorithm in its purest form and additionally presents variant design and implementation details
Patterns of misinterpretation of adnexal masses on CT and MR in an academic radiology department.

Rationale and Objectives The aim of this study was to assess potential quality assurance (QA) issues in the diagnosis and characterization of adnexal masses on pelvic computed tomographic (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging studies. Materials and Methods Images from 128 women who had oophorectomies during a 16-month period with CT and/or MR studies within 5 years of surgery (145 CT scans from 103 women and 49 MR studies from 42 women, with 17 having both MR and CT studies) were reviewed by three radiologists who assigned QA scores of 0 (no QA issue), 1 (minor issue with minimal impact on clinical care), or 2 (major issue with potential impact on clinical care). The difficulty of diagnosis was assigned a score of 0 (very difficult diagnosis to make), 1 (difficult but possible to make the diagnosis), or 2 (diagnosis should be made). The incidence of adnexal QA issues was calculated using total CT and MR pelvic examinations performed on women during the interval. Results Twenty-nine QA issues were identified in 28 women in 17 of 145 CT studies (11.7%) and 12 of 49 MR examinations (24.5%) in women having adnexal surgery (17 of 11,194 [0.15%] of female pelvic CT studies and 12 of 603 [2.0%] of female pelvic MR studies performed in the time interval). Issues included missed lesions, lesions misidentified as leiomyomas, fat described in the lesion but not seen histologically, postmenopausal status of patient not considered, ultrasound correlation not recommended, and confusion of right and left sides. Conclusion Errors in CT and MR studies regarding the diagnosis and characterization of adnexal masses in a highly enriched population of women undergoing adnexal surgery are common. Knowledge of the types of QA issues found in CT and MR studies of adnexal masses should aid in decreasing future errors.
The Influence of Tropical Cyclone Size on Its Intensification

AbstractThis study investigates tropical cyclones of the past two decades (1990–2010) and the connection, if any, between their size and their ability to subsequently undergo rapid intensification (RI). Three different parameters are chosen to define the size of a tropical cyclone: radius of maximum wind (RMW), the average 34-knot (kt; 1 kt = 0.51 m s−1) radius (AR34), and the radius of the outermost closed isobar (ROCI). The data for this study, coming from the North Atlantic hurricane database second generation (HURDAT2), as well as the extended best-track dataset, are organized into 24-h intervals of either RI or slow intensification/constant intensity periods (non-RI periods). Each interval includes the intensity (maximum sustained surface wind speed), RMW, AR34, and ROCI at the beginning of the period and the change of intensity during the subsequent 24-h period. Results indicate that the ability to undergo RI shows significant sensitivity to initial size. Comparisons between RI and non-RI cyclones c...