cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Building roof modeling from airborne laser scanning data based on level set approach

Abstract This paper presents a novel approach to building roof modeling, including roof plane segmentation and roof model reconstruction, from airborne laser scanning data. Segmentation is performed by minimizing an energy function formulated as multiphase level set. The energy function is minimized when each segment corresponds to one or several roof plans of the same normal vector. With this formulation, maximum n regions are segmented at a time by applying log 2 n level set functions. The roof ridges or step edges are then delineated by the union of the zero level contours of the level set functions. In the final step of segmentation, coplanar and parallel roof segments are separated into individual roof segments based on their connectivity and homogeneity. To reconstruct a 3D roof model, roof structure points are determined by intersecting adjacent roof segments or line segments of building boundary and then connected based on their topological relations inferred from the segmentation result. As a global solution to the segmentation problem, the proposed approach determines multiple roof segments at the same time, which leads to topological consistency among the segment boundaries. The paper describes the principle and solution of the multiphase level set approach and demonstrates its performance and properties with two airborne laser scanning data sets.
The rice thermo-sensitive genic male sterility gene tms9 : pollen abortion and gene isolation

The development of two-line hybrid rice has done great contribution to the food security. It is imperative to study the male sterility mechanism of rice photo-thermo sensitive genic male sterile (PTGMS) line which is the core component of two-line hybrid rice. Zhu1S is a rice thermo-sensitive genic male sterile line used frequently as female parent in two-line hybrid seed production. A cytological examination of the development of the Zhu1S anther wall and the microspores showed that tms9 encoded male sterility is caused by the failure of the tapetum to degenerate normally, thereby starving the microspores and finally leading to pollen abortion. A fine-scale genetic map based on a large F2 population allowed tms9 to be located within a 30.2 Kb segment of chromosome 2 harboring seven open reading frames. A comparison between Zhu1S under sterile temperature condition (high temperature, male sterile) and fertile temperature condition (low temperature, fertile) showed that only one of the seven genes, LOC_Os02g12290, was differentially transcribed, with its transcript abundance being much lower under the sterile temperature growing condition. LOC_Os02g12290 encodes a nuclear ribonuclease Z. Re-sequencing demonstrated that the Zhu1S LOC_Os02g12290 allele differed from that present in non tms9 carrier alleles by two contiguous nucleotides in the first exon, inducing a truncated mRNA.
Teaching and assessing resident competence in practice-based learning and improvement

We designed, implemented, and evaluated a 4-week practice-based learning and improvement (PBLI) elective. Eleven internal medicine residents from 2 separate residency programs participated in the PBLI elective and 22 other residents comprised a comparison group. Residents in each group had similar pretest Quality Improvement Knowledge Application Tool scores; but after the PBLI elective, participant scores were significantly higher. Also, participants’ self-assessed ratings of PBLI skills increased after the rotation and remained elevated 6 months afterward. In this curriculum, residents completed a project to improve patient care and demonstrated their knowledge on an evaluation tool in a way that was superior to nonparticipants.
The production of ethanol by Saccharomyces cerevisiae immobilized in polycation-stabilized calcium alginate gels

Polycation treatment of preformed calcium alginate beads produced a matrix with higher resistance to phosphate ions. The treatment of immobilized Saccharomyces cerevisiae in the calcium alginate beads inhibited respiration of the entrapped cells but did not reduce ethanol production.
Applying Biological Data in the Forensic and Policy Arenas

Of the biological measures in the field of traumatic stress studies, the script-driven imagery paradigm has yielded the most consistent data. Approximately, two-thirds of individuals with a diagnosis of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) exhibit heightened psychophysiologic reactivity while listening to audiotaped descriptions of their traumatic autobiographical memories. Nevertheless, these findings do not necessarily indicate the presence of PTSD or even that the memories are genuine. For example, people reporting (presumably) false memories of having been abducted by space aliens similarly exhibit heightened reactivity, even though they do not suffer from PTSD. To enhance the validity of diagnostic decision making in the forensic and policy arenas, we can use the methods of historians, specifically, consulting archival records to verify trauma histories and supplement biological data.
A new multiphoton stimulated Raman line in benzene

Abstract A new multiphonon stimulated Raman line at 1.07μ in benzene is reported. Its critical power is about 100 MW cm -2 . This line is better understood in terms of light feed-back theory than in terms of self-focusing.
Lunar Tides and Magnetism

RECENT observations and studies of the lunar surface based on Apollo and Explorer flights1 show that some rocks brought to Earth are magnetized, that there are on the Moon weak, local, fairly randomly oriented magnetic fields but no overall poloidal field, that the magnetic perturbation of the solar wind by the surface of the Moon as observed by lunar orbiters is concentrated at latitudes lower than about 40° (ref. 2) and, finally, that the chemistry of the surface suggests high present and past radioactivity3. Here I propose a model, based on these observations, which may lead to the understanding of the origin of lunar magnetism a few billion years ago.
A Psychobiocultural Model of Orthostatic Panic Among Cambodian Refugees: Flashbacks, Catastrophic Cognitions, and Reduced Orthostatic Blood-Pressure Response

This paper investigates cognitive and physiological precursors of orthostatic panic (OP), that is, panic upon standing, which is a key complaint among traumatized Cambodian refugees. Prior research links OP to hypotension (lower blood pressure) and catastrophic cognitions. A clinical sample of 102 Cambodian refugees were assessed for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), recent OP attacks, and anticipatory anxiety before engaging in an orthostatic challenge (OC) task during which they were monitored for blood pressure. After the task, they were assessed for OC-induced culture-related catastrophic cognitions, flashbacks, and panic attacks. We found that participants with recent OP (n 60) had more PTSD, greater anticipatory anxiety before the OC, a larger drop in systolic blood pressure during the OC, more OC-induced catastrophic cognitions and flashbacks, and more severe OC-induced panic attack symptoms. Regression models showed that the severity of OC-induced panic symptoms was predicted by the magnitude of SBP drop and mediated by more severe catastrophic cognitions and flashbacks. Implications of the findings for cross-cultural psychopathology research and the treatment of both panic and PTSD in Cambodian refugees are discussed.
Comparison of transverse and modified subtrochanteric femoral shortening osteotomy in total hip arthroplasty for developmental dysplasia of hip: a meta-analysis

Subtrochanteric femoral shortening osteotomy is a crucial procedure to prevent nerve injury in total hip arthroplasty for severe developmental dysplasia of the hip. Transverse osteotomy was first applied, and other modified methods have also been reported. Each has its own advantages and limitations, but no definitive conclusions regarding differences in outcomes have been reached to date. We therefore performed a comprehensive meta-analysis to compare the outcomes of different approaches. 37 studies (795 hips) were included in the final analysis. Meta-analysis, subgroup analysis and meta-regression were performed. Meta-analysis and subgroup analysis showed no significant difference between transverse and modified method. This is further confirmed by meta-regression. Method of osteotomy was found to be not associated with nonunion rate (P = 0.472), as well as other post-operative outcomes including nerve palsy (P = 0.240), dislocation (P = 0.735), revision (P = 0.653) and Harris hip score improvement (P = 0.562). In addition, western countries (P = 0.010) and duration of follow-up more than 5 years (P = 0.014) were associated with higher revision rate. Transverse osteotomy and modified osteotomy appear to be equivalent in terms of nonunion, safety and efficacy. Transverse osteotomy may be recommended, due to its simplicity and convenience in adjusting the anteversion angle. Well-designed and large-sample-size randomized controlled trials are expected to confirm and update the findings of this analysis.
Adolescents' knowledge and attitudes about and experience with violence

Abstract Purpose: Educational interventions directed to the prevention of youth inter-personal violence make assumptions about the educational needs of adolescents for violence-prevention despite little available data. This paper provides new information on background levels of adolescents' knowledge of, attitudes about and experience with violence. Methods: Over 400 teens across Boston's neighborhoods were surveyed by rando-digit dialed telephone techniques. Results: Results show that while boys are more often involved in violence, almost one quarter of girls report fighting. Black teens witness more violence and are threatened more often than whites, but they do not fight more. Knowledge scores indicate a need for improvement in adolescents' understanding of risk factors. Attitude scores indicate that adolescents believe fighting can and should be avoided, but they lack knowledge of behavioral options. Regression analyses show a positive relationship between violence experience and knowledge and attitudes. Conclusion: These data suggest that preventive interventions should be directed to both improving adolescents' knowledge and understanding of personal risk and increasing their repertoire of conflict-resolution skills.
Library Orientation and Instruction — 1986

The following is an annotated list of materials dealing with orientation to library facilities and services, instruction in the use of information resources, and research and computer skills related to retrieving and using information. The thirteenth annual such review in Reference Services Review, the article covers items in English published in 1986. A few items are without annotations because the compiler was unable to secure copies of them for this review.
Deformable Fourier models for surface finding in 3-D images

This paper describes a new global shape parametrization for smoothly deformable three- dimensional objects, such as those found in biomedical images, whose diversity and irregularity make them difficult to represent in terms of fixed features or parts. This representation is used for geometric surface matching to three-dimensional image data. The parametrization decomposes the surface into sinusoidal basis functions. Four types of surfaces are modeled: tori, open surfaces, closed surfaces, and tubes. This parametrization allows a wide variety of smooth surfaces to be described with a small number of parameters. Surface finding is formulated as an optimization problem. Results of the method applied to synthetic and medical three-dimensional images are presented.© (1992) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Elementary statistics laboratory

Students in elementary statistics traditionally see experiments and data as words and numbers in a text. They receive little exposure to the important statistical activities of sample selection, data collection, experimental design, development of statistical models, the need for randomization, selection of factors, etc. They often leave the first course without a firm understanding of the role of applied statistics or of the statistician in scientific investigations. In an attempt to improve elementary statistics education, we have developed a statistics laboratory similar to those of other elementary science courses. We will discuss our experiences in teaching a laboratory component with the traditional elementary statistics course. In each lab session, students, working in teams, discuss the design of an experiment, carry out the experiment, and analyze their data using Minitab on a Macintosh or MS-DOS based computer. The students then individually either answer a series of short answer questions or wr...
N-Methyl and peptoid scans of an autoinducing peptide reveal new structural features required for inhibition and activation of AgrC quorum sensing receptors in Staphylococcus aureus

We report the first N-methyl and peptoid residue scans of a full-length autoinducing peptide (AIP), AIP-III, used by Staphylococcus aureus for quorum sensing (QS). Biological evaluation of these AIP-III analogues uncovered new features of the AIP-III scaffold that can be tuned to develop chemical probes of QS in all four groups of S. aureus (I–IV).
Trabecular Meshwork Cell Culture in Glaucoma Research:: Evaluation of Biological Activity and Structural Properties of Human Trabecular Cells In Vitro

The propagation of human trabecular cells in culture allows the study of the structural and functional properties of this distinct cell type under reproducible experimental conditions. Human trabecular cells can be effectively grown from dissected explants of trabecullar tissue, and the cultured cells can maintain the distinctive ultrastructural features of uncultured trabecular cells through at least five passages in vitro. The trabecular cell possesses a wide range of biochemical and structural properties that may be important for the maintenance of the aqueous outflow pathway. These properties include the growth of trabecular cells as an endothelial monolayer with a nonthrombogenic cell surface, the production of plasminogen activator, avid phagocytosis, and the ability to synthesize glycosaminoglycans, collagen, fibronectin, and other connective tissue elements. The presence of hyaluronidase and other lysosomal enzymes emphasizes that human trabecular cells are capable of metabolizing hyaluronic acid and other extracellular materials. Potential mechanisms of trabecular cell damage in vitro are examined by evaluating the effects of extended passage, peroxide exposure, and laser treatment on cellular morphology.
On multivariate linear regression shrinkage and reduced-rank procedures

Abstract An alternate derivation of the canonical analysis shrinkage prediction procedure of Breiman and Friedman (1997. J. Roy. Statist. Soc. B 59, 3–54) is presented for the multivariate linear model. It is based on consideration of prediction mean square error matrix, and bias of the squared sample canonical correlations. A modified procedure involving partial canonical correlation analysis is also introduced and discussed.
Pricing of NASA Space Shuttle transportation system cargo

A two-part pricing policy is investigated as the most feasible method of pricing the transportation services to be provided by NASA's SSTS. Engineering cost estimates and a deterministic operating cost model generate a data base and develop a procedure for pricing the services of the SSTS. It is expected that the SSTS will have a monopoly on space material processing in areas of crystal growth, glass processing, metallurgical space applications, and biomedical processes using electrophoresis which will require efficient pricing. Pricing problems, the SSTS operating costs based on orbit elevation, number of launch sites, and number of flights, capital costs of the SSTS, research and development costs, allocation of joint transportation costs of the SSTS to a particular space processing activity, and rates for the SSTS are discussed. It is concluded that joint costs for commercial cargoes carried in the SSTS can be most usefully handled by making cost allocations based on proportionate capacity utilization.
Differential detection of viral DNA and RNA in situ in cells infected with human cytomegalovirus.

Abstract We have analyzed the ability to use in situ cytohybridization to distinguish between human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) DNA and RNA in human cells infected in vitro. Two different viral-specific probes were used, one for an abundantly expressed late gene, and one which includes at least two genes coding for immediate early (IE) proteins. In productively infected cells, hybridization of the late gene probe extended over both the nucleus and cytoplasm and was RNase sensitive, whereas hybridization of the IE probe was restricted to the nucleus and was DNasesensitive. In nonproductively infected cells hybridization of the IE probe was localized to the cytoplasm and was RNase-sensitive. The specific nuclease sensitivities indicate that a cytoplasmic hybridization pattern correlates with detection of viral RNA sequences, whereas a nuclear pattern represents detection of viral DNA. These results demonstrate that in situ cytohybridization can potentially be used to determine the extent of HCMV infection in a particular tissue or cell type by distinguishing between transcription and replication of specific viral genes.
Disappearance rates of endogenous luteinizing hormone and chorionic gonadotropin in man.

ABSTRACT Assessment of the rates of disappearance of endogenous LH and HCG from serum following complete surgical hypophysectomy and removal of the placenta was made. The hormone levels were measured by a specific radioimmunoassay. The disappearance rates for both LH and HCG appear to follow a double exponential curve although there may be a possible additional exponential. The initial disappearance involves a fast process (t½ about 21 min for LH, t½ about 11 hr for HCG) followed by a slower process of disappearance (t½ about 235 min for LH, t½ about 23 hr for HCG), which probably reflects the distribution of these hormones in at least 2 compartments.
Health and reproductive experiences of women with an FMR1 premutation with and without fragile X premature ovarian insufficiency.

Recently, research has indicated an increased risk for greater medical and emotional comorbidity and physical health symptoms among women with an FMR1 expansion. However, these studies have generally been limited in their ability to model multiple risk factors associated with these symptoms by small numbers (n = 112 to 146) of participants. This study used survey methodology to examine the health experiences of 458 adult women with the premutation with and without a history of an FXPOI diagnosis. Results suggest similar findings to those reported in the literature with regard to the frequency of medical, emotional, and reproductive experiences of women with the premutation. In addition to expected reproductive differences, women with a diagnosis of FXPOI were also more likely to experience dizziness, nausea, and muscle weakness than women without a diagnosis of FXPOI. Women with and without FXPOI were more likely to have used reproductive assistance and were more likely to have experienced preeclampsia during at least one pregnancy than is reported in the general population. Having comorbid depression and anxiety was predictive of increased medical conditions and increased daily physical health symptoms.
Geometric modes of an unstable ring resonator with 90 degree beam rotation

An unstable ring resonator design which produces 90 deg beam rotation in a single pass (UR90 or HiQ) has been developed in order to solve the problem of obtaining an unobscured, near diffraction-limited output beam from low-gain laser media requiring saturation of a large transverse gain volume. A computer code was used to model the bare-cavity geometric modes of the UR90 by ray tracing through an equivalent thin lens resonator. Mode footprints of the collimated forward mode and expanding reverse mode showed only partial overlap, indicating that proper aperturing, especially at the gain generator, can aid in reverse mode suppression.
Severe Toxicity From Crotalid Envenomation After Early Resolution of Symptoms

Initial observation of a patient who sustained a rattlesnake bite on the hand showed resolution of mild swelling over 3 hours. The patient left the emergency department against medical advice, only to return 12 hours later with severe pain and swelling, as well as a marked coagulopathy. This case illustrates the need for an observation period after crotalid bite, even when the envenomation seems to be minor or when symptoms resolve.
The renal handling of terephthalic acid.

Abstract By use of the Sperber in vivo chicken preparation method (1948 , Ann. R. Agric. Coll. Swed. 15 , 317–349), infusion of radiolabeled terephthalic acid ([ 14 C]TPA) into the renal portal circulation revealed a first-pass excretion of the unchanged compound into the urine. This model was utilized further to characterize the excretory transport of [ 14 C]TPA and provide information on the structural specificity in the secretion of dicarboxylic acids. At an infusion rate of 0.4 nmol/min, 60% of the [ 14 C]TPA which reached the kidney was directly excreted. An infusion rate of 3 or 6 μmol/min resulted in complete removal of [ 14 C]TPA by the kidney. These results indicate that TPA is both actively secreted and actively reabsorbed when infused at 0.4 nmol/min and that active reabsorption is saturated with the infusion of TPA at higher concentrations. The secretory process was saturated with the infusion of TPA at 40 μmol/min. The excretory transport of TPA was inhibited by the infusion of probenecid, salicylate, and m -hydroxybenzoic acid, indicating that these organic acids share the same organic anion excretory transport process. m -Hydroxybenzoic acid did not alter the simultaneously measured excretory transport of p -aminohippuric acid (PAH), suggesting that there are different systems involved in the secretion of TPA and PAH. The structural specificity for renal secretion of dicarboxylic acids was revealed by the use of o -phthalic acid and m -phthalic acid as possible inhibitors of TPA secretion. m -Phthalate, but not o -phthalate, inhibited TPA excretory transport, indicating that there is some specificity in the renal secretion of carboxy-substituted benzoic acids. TPA was actively accumulated by rat and human cadaver renal cortical slices.
Managing power consumption in networks on chips

In this paper, we present a new methodology for managing power consumption of networks-on-chips (NOCs). A power management problem is formulated for the first time using closed-loop control concepts. We introduce an estimator and a controller that implement our power management methodology. The estimator is capable of very fast and accurate tracking of changes in the system parameters. Parameters estimated are used to form the system model. Our system model combines node and network centric power management decisions. Node centric power management assumes no a priori knowledge of requests coming in from outside the core. Thus, it implements a more traditional dynamic voltage scaling and power management control algorithms. Network-centric power management utilizes interaction with the other system cores regarding the power and the quality of service (QoS) needs. The overall system model is based on Renewal theory and, thus, guarantees globally optimal results. We introduce a fast optimization method that runs multiple orders of magnitude faster than the previous optimization approaches while still having the same accuracy in obtaining the power management control. Finally, our controller implements the results of optimization in either hardware or software. The new methodology for power management of NOCs is tested on a system consisting of four satellite units, each implementing an estimator and a controller capable of both node and network centric power management. Our results show large savings in power with good QoS.
Entangled states, holography, and quantum surfaces

Abstract Starting with an elementary discussion of quantum holography, we show that entangled quantum states of qubits provide a “local” representation of the global geometry and topology of quantum Riemann surfaces. This representation may play an important role in both mathematics and physics. Indeed, the simplest way to represent the fundamental objects in a “theory of everything” may be as multi-qubit entangled states.
Metabolism of the environmental toxicant benzo(a)pyrene by subcellular fractions of human ovary

Knowledge of the ability of the female reproductive system to metabolize environmental chemicals is critical not only from the standpoint of toxicity but also from infertility risk assessment. Benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) is a toxicant that is released into the environment from automobile exhausts, cigarette smoke, burning of refuse, industrial emissions, and hazardous waste sites. In exposed animals, BaP becomes activated to reactive metabolites that interfere with target organ function and as a consequence cause toxicity. Studies on animal models conducted in our laboratories and those of others have shown that BaP possess endocrine disrupting properties. Thus, this chemical has the potential to cause infertility and cancers in the female genital tract. An understanding of BaP metabolism in the female reproductive system will be of importance in the diagnosis and management of female fertility as well as cancers in the reproductive tissues. Therefore, the objective of our study was to examine the metabolism of BaP by human ovarian subcellular fractions. Human ovary samples (eight individuals) were obtained from postoperative tissue removed from subjects with uterine tumors. Subcellular fractions (nuclear, cytosolic, mitochondrial, and microsomal) were prepared by differential centrifugation. BaP (1 μM and 3 μM) was individually incubated with individual subcellular fractions for 15 min and the products were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography. Among the different fractions tested, microsomal BaP metabolism was higher than the rest of the fractions. The BaP metabolites identified were as follows: BaP-9,10-diol, BaP-4,5-diol, BaP-7,8-diol, 9(OH) BaP, 3(OH) BaP, BaP-1,6-dione, BaP-3,6-dione, and BaP-6,12-dione. Of interest was the presence of DNA-reactive metabolites such as BaP-3,6-dione, BaP-6,12-dione, and BaP 7,8-diol, which have been implicated in the causation of infertility and cancer. Our results indicate that women who are exposed to BaP via cigarette smoke, occupational settings, and diet are more likely at a larger risk of this toxicant-induced infertility and cancer than others.
Measurements of b-jet nuclear modification factors in pPb and PbPb collisions with CMS

Abstract We present measurements of the nuclear modification factors R A A and R p A PYTHIA of b jets in lead–lead and proton–lead collisions, respectively, using the CMS detector. Jets from b-quark fragmentations are found by exploiting the long lifetime of the b-quark through tagging methods using distributions of the secondary vertex displacement. From these, b-jet cross-sections are calculated and compared to the pp cross-section from the 2.76 TeV pp data collected in 2013 and to a PYTHIA simulation at 5.02 TeV, where these center-of-mass energies correspond to those of the PbPb and pPb data. We observe significant suppression for b jets in PbPb, and a R p A PYTHIA value consistent with unity for b jets in pPb. Results from both collision species show remarkable correspondence with inclusive-jet suppression measurements, indicating that mass-dependent energy-loss effects are negligible at p T values greater than around 50 GeV / c . We use 150 μb − 1 of lead–lead data and 35 nb − 1 of proton–lead data collected at the LHC.
Self-diffusion of supercooled tris-naphthylbenzene.

We have measured self-diffusion coefficients for deeply supercooled tris-naphthylbenzene using secondary ion mass spectrometry. Isotopically labeled multilayer films were prepared by vapor deposition. For samples deposited within a few K of Tg, the evolution of the concentration profile was observed to be Fickian on all accessible length and time scales. Diffusion is enhanced by a factor of ∼100 at 338 K when compared to the prediction of the Stokes−Einstein model. In combination with previous neutron reflectivity experiments, these measurements quantify the length scale at which dynamics cross over to non-Fickian behavior in supercooled TNB. Comparisons are made between this diffusion data and other measurements of dynamics in supercooled TNB, including probe diffusion and crystal growth rates. An earlier report of self-diffusion coefficients for TNB was in error because the samples were prepared by vapor deposition at Tg − 50 K, creating very stable glasses in which the concentration profile does not ev...
Structural health monitoring of an impulsively loaded structure using wave-propagation based instantaneous baseline

Recent advances in Structural Health Monitoring have provided the means of eliminating the prerecorded baseline measurement by producing an instantaneous baseline. The damage detection method presented is near-real time damage detection instantaneous baseline method by using ambient excitation and passive sensing. The method uses an array of sensors and compares the features in the data of the different wave-propagation paths to determine an undamaged baseline. The wave-propagation paths that greatly differ from the instantaneous baseline indicate the location of damage along those paths. The details of the signal processing algorithm and evaluation of the method for detecting damage are included. The damage detection method presented is able to detect damage in a wave path using an instantaneous base line.
The usefulness of integral mean curvature measurements in the study of the kinetics of coarsening

Coarsening kinetics are often studied in terms of an asymptotic solution to the basic growth/dissolution rate equation. In this “asymptotic state” all properties of the particle size distribution become qualitatively invariant with time except for a scale factor. Therefore, as long as this state is presumed to exist, it is unnecessary to measure the size distribution of the particles. Among the properties that pertain to the entire paniculate ensemble are the volume (Vv), the interfacial area(Sv), and the integral mean curvature(Mv)per unit volume of the aggregate. Of these,Vv does not change significantly during coarsening butSv andMv do, and are easy to measure unambiguously on plane sections. A strategy is outlined for deriving the relationship betweenSv andMv and their time dependence for any arbitrary rate equation and its attendant asymptotic solution. This strategy is then illustrated for three selected coarsening theories. The measurement ofSv andMv, which is less tedious than that of size distributions, is shown to be sufficient for distinguishing the merits of the theory under consideration as long as scale factor coarsening is presumed to exist.
Revisiting the 1983 Social Security Reforms, 25 Years Later

The authors examined changes in the ages at which people claim Social Security retirement benefits in response to the 1983 Social Security reforms, which gradually increase the full retirement age ...
CONTAINER MOVEMENT BY TRUCKS IN METROPOLITAN NETWORKS: MODELING AND OPTIMIZATION

Abstract Container movement by trucks with time constraints at origins and destinations is modeled as an asymmetric “multi-Traveling Salesmen Problem with Time Windows” (m-TSPTW) with social constraints. A two-phase exact algorithm based on dynamic programming (DP) is proposed that finds the best routes for a fleet of trucks. Since the m-TSPTW problem is NP-hard, the computational time for optimally solving large size problems becomes prohibitive. For large size problems, we develop a hybrid methodology consisting of DP in conjunction with genetic algorithms. The developed algorithms are compared with an insertion heuristic method. Computational results demonstrate the efficiency of the developed algorithms.
Psychology of religion and adolescents in the United States: past to present

Many of the early founders of America were concerned with religious issues, and some of their concerns continue in contemporary science. Psychology of religion has a long history in American psychology, but one marred by neglect and misguided claims about the nature of science. Psychology of religion offers a chance for an expansion of behavioral science into realms of importance to many people. For example, both development during adolescence and the implications of gender differences may be illuminated by a consideration of the role of religion in human life. Particular topics discussed include conversion and religious mobility, religious experience, images of God, identity, and mental health and coping.
The Asymmetric Vascular Stent: Efficacy in a Rabbit Aneurysm Model

Background and Purpose— Development of hemodynamic modifying devices to treat intracranial aneurysms is an active area of research. The asymmetrical vascular stent (AVS), a stent containing a low-porosity patch, is such device. We evaluate AVS efficacy in an in vivo intracranial aneurysm model. Methods— We created 24 elastase rabbit model aneurysms: 13 treated with the AVS, 5 treated with standard coronary stents, and 6 untreated controls. Four weeks after treatment, aneurysms underwent follow-up angiography, cone-beam micro-CT, histological evaluation, and selective electron microscopy scanning. Results— Four rabbits died early in the study: 3 during AVS treatment and 1 control (secondary to intraprocedural vessel injury and an unrelated tumor, respectively). AVS-treated aneurysms exhibited very weak or no aneurysm flow immediately after treatment and no flow in all aneurysms at follow-up. Standard stent-treated aneurysms showed flow both after treatment (5/5) and at follow-up (3/5). All control aneurysm...
Deformation Heating and Its Effect on the Processing Maps of Ti-15-3 Titanium Alloy

In the present study, deformation heating generated by plastic deformation and its effect on the processing maps of Ti-15-3 titanium alloy were investigated. For this purpose, hot compression tests were performed on a Gleeble-3800 thermo-mechanical simulator in the temperature range of 850-1150 °C and strain rate range of 0.001-10 s1. The temperature rise due to deformation heating was calculated and the as-measured flow curves were corrected for deformation heating. Using the as-measured and corrected flow stress data, the processing maps for Ti-15-3 titanium alloy at a strain of 0.5 were developed on the basis Murty‘s and Babu’s instability criteria. The results show that both the instability maps based the two instability criteria are essentially similar and are characterized by an unstable region occurring at strain rates higher than 0.1 s1 for almost the entire temperature range tested. The unstable regions are overestimated from the as-measured data due to the effect of deformation heating, indicating a better workability after correcting the effect of deformation heating. This is further conformed by the analysis based on strain rate sensitivity.
Distinguishing Counterfeit From Authentic Product Retailers in the Virtual Marketplace

Product counterfeiting is a large and growing crime that has many forms of victims, from consumers and corporations to governments and societies. Contributing to this growth, the Internet offers a ...
STUDIES OF POINT MUTANTS DEFINE THREE ESSENTIAL PAIRED NUCLEOTIDES IN THE DOMAIN 5 SUBSTRUCTURE OF A GROUP II INTRON

Domain 5 (D5) is a highly conserved, largely helical substructure of group II introns that is essential for self-splicing. Only three of the 14 base pairs present in most D5 structures (A2.U33, G3.U32, and C4.G31) are nearly invariant. We have studied effects of point mutations of those six nucleotides on self-splicing and in vivo splicing of aI5 gamma, an intron of the COXI gene of Saccharomyces cerevisiae mitochondria. Though none of the point mutations blocked self-splicing under one commonly used in vitro reaction condition, the most debilitating mutations were at G3 and G4. Following mitochondrial Biolistic transformation, it was found that mutations at A2, G3, and C4 blocked respiratory growth and splicing while mutations at the other sites had little effect on either phenotype. Intra-D5 second-site suppressors showed that pairing between nucleotides at positions 2 and 33 and 4 and 31 is especially important for D5 function. At the G3.U32 wobble pair, the mutant A.U pair blocks splicing, but a revertant of that mutant that can form an A+.C base pair regains some splicing. A dominant nuclear suppressor restores some splicing to the G3A mutant but not the G3U mutant, suggesting that a purine is required at position 3. These findings are discussed in terms of the hypothesis of Madhani and Guthrie (H. D. Madhani and C. Guthrie, Cell 71:803-817, 1992) that helix 1 formed between yeast U2 and U6 small nuclear RNAs may be the spliceosomal cognate of D5.
Compression of Transmission Bandwidth Requirements for a Certain Class of Band-Limited Functions

A study of source-encoding techniques that afford a reduction of data-transmission rates is made with particular emphasis on the compression of transmission bandwidth requirements of band-limited functions. The feasibility of bandwidth compression through analog signal rooting is investigated. It is found that the N th roots of elements of a certain class of entire functions of exponential type possess contour integrals resembling Fourier transforms, the Cauchy principal values of which are compactly supported on an interval one N th the size of that of the original function. Exploring this theoretical result it is found that synthetic roots can be generated, which closely approximate the N th roots of a certain class of band-limited signals and possess spectra that are essentially confined to a bandwidth one N th that of the signal subjected to the rooting operation. A source-encoding algorithm based on this principle is developed that allows the compression of data-transmission requirements for a certain class of band-limited signals. The utility of this algorithm is illustrated by a digital computer simulation of a facsimile telegraphy system. The scanning and recovery of several alphanumeric character images is simulated. Recognizable replicas of the original pattern are retrieved after 6-to-1 bandwidth compression.
A practitioner's guide to interpersonal communication theory: An overview and exploration of selected theories

Abstract Objective To provide a brief overview of selected interpersonal theories and models, and to present examples of their use in healthcare communication research. Results Nine interpersonal communication theories and their application to healthcare communication are discussed. Conclusion As healthcare communication interactions often occur at an interpersonal level, familiarity with theories of interpersonal communication may reinforce existing best practices and lead to the development of novel communication approaches with patients. Practice implications This article serves as an introductory primer to theories of interpersonal communication that have been or could be applied to healthcare communication research. Understanding key constructs and general formulations of these theories may provide practitioners with additional theoretical frameworks to use when interacting with patients.
An Approximate Dynamic Programming Approach for Job Releasing and Sequencing in a Reentrant Manufacturing Line

This paper presents the application of an approximate dynamic programming (ADP) algorithm to the problem of job releasing and sequencing of a benchmark reentrant manufacturing line (RML). The ADP approach is based on the SARSA(lambda) algorithm with linear approximation structures that are tuned through a gradient-descent approach. The optimization is performed according to a discounted cost criterion that seeks both the minimization of inventory costs and the maximization of throughput. Simulation experiments are performed by using different approximation architectures to compare the performance of optimal strategies against policies obtained with ADP. Results from these experiments showed a statistical match in performance between the optimal and the approximated policies obtained through ADP. Such results also suggest that the applicability of the ADP algorithm presented in this paper may be a promising approach for larger RML systems
ATP:Glutamine synthetase adenylyltransferase from Escherichia coli: Purification and properties of a low-molecular weight enzyme form

Abstract Some kinetic properties of a low-molecular weight form of the ATP: glutamine synthetase adenylyltransferase of Escherichia coli are reported. Described also is a purification procedure from which the small adenylyltransferase of ~70,000 molecular weight is purified ~500-fold from E. coli extracts and is derived from a larger active protein (~130,000 molecular weight) that is a component of the deadenylylating enzyme system of this microorganism. The small adenylyltransferase isolated can be purified a further 1.7-fold in polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The incorporation of 5′-adenylyl groups into the glutamine synthetase structure is optimal at pH ≥ 7.8, 30 m m MgCl2 (15 m m MnCl2 is about one-third as effective an activator as is MgCl2), 10 m m l -glutamine, and 5 m m ATP. Anions, α-ketoglutarate, UTP, l -glutamate, various divalent cations with MgCl2 or excess MgCl2 (MnCl2), and sulfhydryl reagents are inhibitory. The adenylyltransferase and unadenylylated glutamine synthetase have an apparent association constant of ~5 × 105 m −1. With pyrophosphate present, the small adenylyltransferase catalyzes the removal of 5′-adenylyl groups from adenylylated glutamine synthetase, and ATP has some activating effect on this reverse reaction. Dodecameric glutamine synthetase that has been coupled to Sepharose 4B is enzymatically active and has been used as a solidstate substrate for some experiments with the adenylyltransferase. The adenylyltransferase, however, is inactive with subunits of glutamine synthetase that have been reacted with p-chloromercuriphenylsulfonate and attached to Sepharose 4B to prevent their reassociation during the removal of denaturants.
Lake Superior Sandbar Pattern

The sandbar pattern was taken in Lake Superior Provincial Park on an overcast windy day. Several minutes after the image was captured, a wave …
Effect of fasting and obesity in humans on the 6-hydroxylation of chlorzoxazone: A putative probe of CYP2E1 activity

Background and Objectives The hepatic 6-hydroxylation of chlorzoxazone in vitro is mediated primarily by CYP2E1, and measurement of this metabolic pathway may provide an in vivo probe of the enzyme. In animals, such as the rat, levels of CYP2E1 are induced by both fasting and obesity. This study investigated whether these two physiologic factors are determinants of the metabolism and disposition of chlorzoxazone in humans. Methods The plasma concentration-time profiles of chlorzoxazone and its 6-hydroxy metabolite were determined after oral administration of parent drug (250 mg). The urinary excretion of the metabolite was also determined. In one study, the disposition profiles were obtained in six healthy white men, first after an overnight fast, and on a separate occasion after a 38-hour fast. The second study investigated the disposition of chlorzoxazone in nine obese women and in nine age-matched women. Results Prolonged fasting produced a significant increase in circulating ketone bodies. This was associated with a reduction in the oral clearance of chlorzoxazone (mean ± SD, 5.79 ± 1.04 to 3.69 ± 1.54 ml min−1 kg−1; p < 0.03). The 0- to 24-hour urinary recovery of the 6-hydroxy metabolite was extensive (50% to 80%), and the reduced clearance reflected a lower 6-hydroxylating ability after fasting. The elimination half-life of the drug was increased by a similar extent to clearance (1.00 ± 0.09 versus 1.50 ± 0.42 hours; p < 0.004), whereas its apparent volume of distribution was unaffected by fasting. By contrast, obesity resulted in significant increases in the oral clearance and distribution of chlorzoxazone on both an absolute and weight-normalized basis; for example, 4.15 ± 0.81 versus 6.23 ± 1.72 ml min−1 kg−1 and 0.50 ± 0.28 versus 0.82 ± 0.19 L · kg−1. Half-life of elimination was similar in both groups of subjects. Estimation of the fractional clearance to 6-hydroxychlorzoxazone showed that obesity increased this parameter to a similar extent as oral clearance. The difference in the oral clearance and 6-hydroxylating ability of nonobese men and women was also statistically different. Conclusions A discordancy was observed between the reported effect of fasting in rodents and that observed in humans. This may reflect an interspecies difference in CYP2E1 regulation or, more likely, destruction of the enzyme by lipid peroxidation resulting from the prolonged period of fasting. However, serious to morbid obesity in humans is associated with increased 6-hydroxylation of chlorzoxazone, consistent with induction of CYP2E1. Accordingly, such individuals may be at increased risk of CYP2E1-mediated toxicities and adverse effects caused by the formation of CYP2E1-mediated metabolites of environmental agents. In addition, the efficacy of an active drug that is a CYP2E1 substrate may be reduced in obese patients. Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics (1994) 56, 359–367; doi:10.1038/clpt.1994.150
A bibliography of magnetooptics of solids

This bibliography contains many of the papers dealing with magnetooptical effects in solids. It is arranged in sections by subject matter and in chronological order within sections; the papers are alphabetized in each year by first author's last name. The information given is author, title of paper, and reference.
SHELL-SHOCKED DIFFUSION MODEL FOR THE LIGHT CURVE OF SN 2006gy

We explore a simple model for the high luminosity of SN 2006gy involving photon diffusion of shock-deposited thermal energy. The distinguishing property of the model is that the large “stellar” radius of ∼160 AU required to prevent adiabatic losses is not the true stellar radius, but rather, it is the radius of an opaque, unbound circumstellar envelope, created when ∼10 M, was ejected in the decade before the supernova in an eruption analogous to that of h Carinae. The supernova light is produced primarily by diffusion of thermal energy following the passage of the blast wave through this shell. This model differs from traditional models of supernova debris interacting with an external circumstellar medium (CSM) in that here the shell is optically thick and the escape of radiation is delayed. We show that any model attempting to account for SN 2006gy’s huge luminosity with radiation emitted by ongoing CSM interaction fails for the following basic reason: the CSM density required to achieve the observed luminosity makes the same circumstellar envelope opaque ( ), forcing a thermal t 300 diffusion solution. In our model, the weaker CSM interaction giving rise to SN 2006gy’s characteristic Type IIn spectrum and soft X-rays is not linked to the power source of the visual continuum; instead, it arises after the blast wave breaks free from the opaque shell into the surrounding wind. While a simple diffusion model can explain the gross properties of the early light curve of SN 2006gy, it predicts that the light curve must plummet rapidly at late times, unless an additional power source is present. Subject headings: circumstellar matter — stars: evolution — supernovae: individual (SN 2006gy)