cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Prospective comparison of catheter-based endoscopic sonography versus standard endoscopic sonography: evaluation of gastrointestinal-wall abnormalities and staging of gastrointestinal malignancies.

Purpose Endoscopic sonography (EUS) is an important imaging modality for evaluating benign and malignant luminal gastrointestinal-tract abnormalities. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the feasibility of catheter-based EUS (C-EUS) during standard upper and lower endoscopy in patients with malignancies and other abnormalities of the gastrointestinal-tract lumen, to assess the image quality obtained with the 12.5-MHz catheter-based ultrasound transducer, and to prospectively compare the interpretations of C-EUS images with those of the standard EUS (S-EUS) images. Methods One hundred thirty-seven consecutive patients referred for EUS were evaluated with C-EUS followed by S-EUS. The patients were assigned to 1 of 2 groups: group A, patients with intramural masses or intestinal wall thickening, with biopsies negative for malignancy; and group B, patients with esophageal, gastric, duodenal, or rectal cancer referred for staging. The results of C-EUS and S-EUS were compared for each group. Results C-EUS was completed in 134 patients: 81 patients with 83 lesions in group A and 53 patients in group B. For group A, C-EUS image interpretation concurred with that of S-EUS in 74 (89%) of 83 lesions. For group B, C-EUS concurred with S-EUS for tumor depth (T) and nodal (N) classifications in 19 cases (36%) and 26 cases (49%), respectively. The depth of invasion was underestimated by C-EUS in all 34 cases in which the T classifications by C-EUS and S-EUS were discordant. In 1 of 6 patients with stenotic cancer that was nontraversable by S-EUS, C-EUS identified lymphadenopathy (incorrectly classified as N0 by S-EUS). Conclusions C-EUS was easily performed, and the C-EUS images were comparable to the S-EUS images in assessing mucosal and intramural lesions. The limited depth of penetration of the catheter-based transducer resulted in understaging the extent of tumor invasion and underestimating the nodal spread. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 29:117–124, 2001.
A physiological basis for control of a prosthetic hand

Abstract Recent surveys from upper limb amputees indicate the sentiment that prosthetic hands do not function in a life-like manner and are not intuitively controlled. Thus, two methods of control for a prosthetic hand are presented. A proportional derivative (PD) force controller is compared to a novel biomimetic application of sliding mode control. The biomimetic sliding mode (BSM) controller was designed to map human muscle signals into prosthesis motor command signals in a physiologically expected manner. The BSM and PD controllers were evaluated analytically and subjectively by one amputee and nine nonamputee test subjects. The posture of the hands of the nonamputee test subjects were measured with a CyberGlove and used to determine if the position of the prosthesis (when driven by both controllers) was highly correlated to the posture of the human hands. Force tracking experiments were also performed by all test subjects with both controllers to evaluate the ability to control the applied force. Finally, a dual object lifting task was performed by all test subjects to determine if the mapping of electromyogram (EMG) signals with the BSM controller resulted in physiologically expected motions. A nonparametric Mann–Whitney U -test was performed on the subjective evaluations to determine the statistical significance of the evaluations. The BSM controller was shown to replicate the posture of the human hand much more accurately than the PD force controller. The BSM controller also enabled better average force tracking results and higher success rates with the dual object lifting experiment while the same task was nearly impossible to perform with the PD controller. Finally, the BSM controller was subjectively rated to be more similar to control in comparison to the human hand with respect to position and force.
Identification of linear structural systems using earthquake‐induced vibration data

This paper addresses the issue of system identification for linear structural systems using earthquake induced time histories of the structural response. The proposed methodology is based on the Eigensystem Realization Algorithm (ERA) and on the Observer/Kalman filter IDentification (OKID) approach to perform identification of structural systems using general input-output data via Markov parameters. The efficiency of the proposed technique is shown by numerical examples for the case of eight-storey building finite element models subjected to earthquake excitation and by the analysis of the data from the dynamic response of the Vincent-Thomas cable suspension bridge (Long Beach, CA) recorded during the Whittier and the North-ridge earthquakes. The effects of noise in the measurements and of inadequate instrumentation are investigated. It is shown that the identified models show excellent agreement with the real systems in predicting the structural response time histories when subjected to earthquake-induced ground motion.
SUM FREQUENCY GENERATION OF O-H VIBRATIONS ON THE SURFACE OF H2O/HNO3 SOLUTIONS AND LIQUID HNO3

The surfaces of aqueous HNO3 solutions and liquid HNO3 are examined using sum frequency generation (SFG). A molecular-level picture of these atmospherically relevant systems is developed. Consisten...
Parosteal lipoma of the mandible.

Abstract The parosteal lipoma represents an uncommon benign neoplasm which usually affects the long bones. An example of parosteal lipoma involving the body of the mandible, which was incidentally discovered on roentgenographic examination, is described. This represents the first reported example affecting the jaws. Benign lipomatous involvement of bone is also reviewed.
Influence of strain on proteoglycan synthesis by valvular interstitial cells in three-dimensional culture

Abstract Differently loaded regions of the mitral valve contain distinct amounts and types of proteoglycans (PGs); these PG profiles are altered in abnormal loading and disease conditions. We developed an in vitro three-dimensional model to analyze PGs secreted by valvular interstitial cells (VICs) isolated from distinct regions of porcine mitral valves (leaflet or chordae) and subjected to either biaxial or uniaxial mechanical constraints. In addition, the PGs, DNA and collagen content of the collagen gels was monitored over time. All three PGs previously found in heart valves (decorin, biglycan and versican) were present in the collagen gels and the conditioned medium. Compared to unconstrained gels, the constrained collagen gels (whether biaxially or uniaxially loaded) retained more decorin and biglycan but less versican. However, the conditioned medium from constrained collagen gels contained higher amounts of all three PGs than did medium from unconstrained gels. Constrained collagen gels containing leaflet cells retained more decorin and biglycan than did those containing chordal cells. DNA content was maintained early in the culture period but was reduced by 55–80% after 7 days, whereas PG synthesis increased over time. At the end of the culture period, the cell density was highest in the biaxial region of gels seeded with leaflet cells. In contrast, collagen content in both constrained and unconstrained gels remained consistent over culture duration. This study provides valuable information about the role of applied loading on proteoglycan segregation, which should aid in tissue engineering applications and for understanding valve biology and pathology.
Government revenue from money creation with government and private money

Abstract For a stationary state, we show that if the government is as efficient as a competitive banking industry in producing money, then the substitution of private for government money does not alter the revenue from money creation or the present value maximizing holding cost of money. If households and non-banking firms hold both government and private money, then maximum present value requires that the reserve ratio maximize the monetary base and that the base nominal interest elasticity equal minus one. With perfect foresight, zero money balances and zero revenue from money creation is the only time consistent revenue maximizing solution.
Individual and Organizational Characteristics Influencing Event Planners’ Perceptions of Information Content and Channel Choice

The meetings and convention industry is one of the fastest growing sectors of the tourism and hospitality industry with expenditures in the billions, highlighting event planners’ critical role in the purchasing and decision-making process. Event planners are a piece of the organizational buying puzzle and have the power to not only search possible meeting and event venues but also prevent sellers or information from reaching members of the decision-making group. Therefore, this research evaluated the factors (individual and organizational) that influence event planners perception of information content and channel choice decision through a series of descriptive, t-test, analysis of variance, and post hoc analysis. Personal interactions were found to be the most valuable channel, while meeting room information content is found to hold the greatest importance and influence for making decisions. The results of this study have important implications for destination marketing organizations, such as convention ...
Isolation, fractionation and reconstitution of a nuclear extract capable of transcribing ribosomal DNA

A procedure for preparing a nuclear extract that efficiently transcribes rat rDNA in vitro has been developed. This procedure, which is based on the protocol described by Dignam et al. (Nucl Acids Res 11:1475, 1983), allows the preparation of extract from large or small amounts of material and requires neither ultracentrifugation nor column chromatography. These extracts were found to be more efficient than other transcription systems. Extract prepared as described routinely synthesize 1–2 transcripts per linear template, and could synthesize upto 6 transcripts per linear template at an elongation rate of 2.1 nucleotides per second.
The effect of color and typeface on the readability of on-line text

Abstract What is the best color combination that maximizes readability of on-screen displays is an issue that has been researched by many. These different studies are sometimes contradictive in what makes a color/letter combination more readable and/or identifiable. In creating an application, it is very important to make a good choice in this regard, so that the usability of the application won't be hindered by a poor interaction of background and lettering. Moreover, it is also questionable when reading on-screen, if not only the color but the typeface chosen to present the information has any effects in how readable the information is and how identifiable the letters are to the users. Based on this belief, we developed an application prototype using ToolbookTM in order to test for the effects of color and typefaces when reading on-screen information. An ANOVA test was created using a fractional factorial design to test for main effects and interactions effects. Groups of subjects were selected at random, and the task assigned included several repetitions. The dependent variable used to test for the readability of the typefaces and color combinations was the time consumed in going through the task. This quantitative measure was used as a good indicator of the readability of the data, as the qualitative factor. The results indicated that for some combinations of colors, a strongly significant test was yielded, whereas typefaces main effects were not always significant. In the case of color main effects, as it was anticipated by previous studies, there is not a significant effect on the time to complete the task given by the foreground and background color used.
Simultaneous presentation in text generation (abstract only)

The early part of the 1980s has seen increasing interest and research in computer generation of text which has lead to the creation of several systems to handle various aspects of the text generation process. Some of these systems include McKeown's TEXT system [6], Appelt's KAMP [1], McDonald's MUMBLE [5] and Mann's PENMAN system [3] (which includes Matthiessen's NIGEL [4]).As proposed by Thompson [7], the text generation process can profitably be viewed as consisting of a strategic component which decides what to say and a tactical component which determines how to say it. In terms of processing, the strategic component uses the speaker's intentions, real-world knowledge, and knowledge of the user's beliefs and knowledge to produce a message structure containing the message elements to be presented and the relation between these message elements. The tactical component takes the message structure and produces the final text so as to convey both the propositional content as well as the speaker's attitude and intentions.In the various text generation systems that have been produced the message elements in the message structure are processed serially. That is, one element is realized, then the next, etc. There are, however, situations where one message element appears to “interrupt” another. When this occurs the impression is that the two message elements are presented in parallel. I call this situation simultaneous presentation. Simultaneous presentation is realized in text by parenthetical phrases, appositives, and unrestricted relative clauses.There are three uses for simultaneous presentation: correction of perceived ambiguous or unsuccessful reference, definition of terms and naming of concepts, and emphasis on the co-reference of two items. Preliminary results indicate that the three uses may be distinguished by the identification intention proposed by Appelt for concept activation actions [2]. These three uses have in common the fact that each involves the co-reference of the two elements presented simultaneously. Indeed, it appears that simultaneous presentation is an explicit indication of co-reference.My research demonstrates that simultaneous presentation is a useful and necessary capability if a text generation system is to have full expressive power. The conditions under which simultaneous presentation can and cannot be used felicitously will be considered as well as the effects of the use of simultaneous presentation on the final text produced. In addition, the implications of simultaneous presentation for the text generation process and the requirements it places on a text generation system will also be studied. The final result will be to produce a system capable of using simultaneous presentation. I believe it should be possible to produce such a system by building on currently existing strategic and tactical text generators (McKeown's TEXT system and McDonald's MUMBLE are one possibility). Such a system should have particular utility in the generation of explanations and will be tested in such a domain.
Rapid assay for purine phosphoribosyltransferases

Abstract A micro assay for purine phosphoribosyltransferases has been developed using small Dowex 1-X8 columns. This method compares favorably in accuracy, sensitivity, and reproducibility with many established procedures. It seems to be most suitable for enzyme purifications, which require many assays to be performed in a reasonable time.
EXPERIMENTAL PYELONEPHRITIS IN CONGENITAL UNILATERAL HYDRONEPHROSIS IN THE RAT

A streptomycin mutant of Escherichia coli strain C94 [07:K1: H-] (C94/sm) representative of the most common capsular type observed in neonatal sepsis and meningitis, and childhood pyelonephritis (PYE) was used to develop a model of PYE. Intraperitoneal (IP) inoculation of normal 21 day old Wistar rats with 107 CFU/ml of C94/sm produced bacteremia persisting for 24 to 72 hours in 80% of the rats. Kidney infections of 102 to 103 CFU/ml were observed in all bacteremic rats for 4 to 14 days. Urine cultures were uniformly negative. Unilateral palpation of the kidney during bacteremia did not appear to have any effect on the degree of infection in normal Wistar rats. IP inoculation of 107 CFU/ml of C94/sm in congenital unilateral hydronephrotic male Wistar rats produced similar results as above except that the right kidney had a 1-2 log greater bacterial concentration per ml than the left kidney. Palpation of the right kidney during early bacteremia resulted in gross changes in the right kidney evident in less than 72 hours. Bacterial counts of the right kidney exceed the left by 2-4 logs and urines were uniformly positive with > 106 CFU/ml. Experimental PYE in the congenital unilateral hydronephrotic rat appears to be a reproducible model for the study of this disease.
Grapevines of Innovation: Ozone as a Cleaning Agent in the California Wine Industry

This article examines the diffusion of technological innovation within the California wine industry by studying the adoption of ozone-cleaning technology. The paper compares ozone with other sanitizing systems and reviews current perspectives on innovation diffusion and adoption before describing and analyzing the results of a 2007 industry survey completed by 128 California wineries. We find that the decision to adopt ozone-cleaning technology was correlated with its economic advantages but not with either demographics of decision makers or variables indicative of a winery's ability to absorb new information. (JEL Classification: Q1, Q16, O33)
An Analysis of the Integration of Strategic Sourcing and Negotiation Planning

SUMMARY Initially, strategic sourcing is defined as an integrated, seven-step process that includes the negotiation plan. Research questions are then proposed to determine the extent to which negotiation is part of the integrated sourcing process. To answer the research questions, the strategic sourcing process and negotiation plan are evaluated in 29 cases. In 14 of the 29 cases, strategic sourcing was completed and integrated into the negotiation plan. This is just under half of the cases, which led to the general conclusion that negotiation is not well integrated with the other strategic sourcing processes. Additional findings indicated the appropriate negotiation style was used in only 64 percent of the cases, with most mismatches occurring when an integrative style was used instead of the more appropriate distributive style. Managerial and research implications of the findings are presented and discussed.
The action of proteolytic enzymes on human erythrocyte pyruvate kinase.

Abstract Human erythrocyte pyruvate kinase (ATP: pyruvate phosphotransferase, EC 2.7.1.40) is inactivated at low salt concentration by pronase, chymotrypsin, and trypsin. The kinetics of inactivation are pseudo-first order. We were unable to identify any discrete, large molecular-weight intermediates of the inactivation process by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The evidence suggests random proteolytic cleavage after the initial inactivation step. Nonspecific protection against the inactivation is observed at higher salt concentrations. Specific protection is provided by low concentrations of phosphoenolpyruvate, ADP-Mg, ATP-Mg, and fructose-1,6-diphosphate. Pyruvate kinase exposed to trypsin in the presence of phosphoenolpyruvate is indistinguishable from the native molecule on polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, but does have altered thermostability We interpret the results in terms of a flexible model of the enzyme which is stabilized in an active configuration by interaction with substrates and other physiological ligands.
Late Onset Sepsis and Incomplete Kawasaki Disease in a 3-Month-Old Infant: A Case Report and Literature Review

Despite advances in the antimicrobial therapy and implementation of a multitude of screening protocols, group B streptococcus (GBS) infection remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality in newborns and young infants. The incidence of GBS septicemia, however, declines drastically with age, and it is rarely implicated as a cause of sepsis in infants older than 2 months. Recently we were involved in caring for a female infant from Brooklyn who presented with subtle signs of infection and her blood culture later grew GBS. She also had significant coronary artery dilatation suggestive of another ongoing inflammatory process which could not be justified solely by a GBS infection. Kawasaki disease (KD) is an acute febrile illness of childhood characterized by self-limited vasculitis and is known to cause coronary artery changes if not treated timely. The first case of this unusual illness was observed by Tomisaku Kawasaki in 1961 in a 4-year-old child who presented with an unremitting fever and a rash. Even though five decades have passed, no laboratory gold standard is available and like all clinical entities which are diagnosed exclusively by presence of clinical signs, KD too is vulnerable to underestimation depending upon the specificity of signs used for its identification. Int J Clin Pediatr. 2014;3(2):51-54 doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.14740/ijcp147w
Optical sensor for calcium: performance, structure, and reactivity of calcichrome immobilized at an anionic polymer film

A calcium-selective optical sensor has been fabricated by the electrostatic immobilization of calcichrome at a porous anion-exchange polymer film. The change in the optical properties of the bound indicator as a function of Ca(II) concentration was monitored in a single-beam diffuse reflection mode at a pH of 12.1. Advantageous features of this design include a short response time (<15 s), high selectivity, facile construction, and compatibility with commercially available instrumentation. The rapid response results from the porous microstructure of the anion exchange polymer, which facilitates the mass transport of analyte and counterions between solution and polymer film. The optical response is linear for a Ca(II) concentration between 3 and 30 mM with a detection limit of 3 mM. Immobilization alters both the acid and chelation strength of the indicator. Possible causes of these reactivity differences are discussed, based on insights provided by infrared internal reflection and photoacoustic spectroscopies. Equations to determine the metal complex formation constant and acid dissociation constants of the immobilized agent from diffuse reflectance spectra are developed.
Prevalence of multiple problem behaviors in institutionalized nonambulatory profoundly mentally retarded children

Deinstitutionalization has resulted in increasing degrees of mental and physical handicap in the populations served by residential care facilities. Previous research has linked increasing levels of handicap with increased risk of problem behaviors. The present study examines the prevalence of multiple problem behaviors in a residential center specializing in serving the needs of the most profoundly handicapped subgroup of children with mental retardation. The subjects were 51 male and 50 female (mean age = 13 years) children who were nonambulatory and profoundly mentally retarded. Prevalence of problematic behaviors are reported along with the risk of injury to self and others posed by the behaviors. The prevalence of problematic behaviors are discussed relative to changing patterns in institutional populations and the subsequent challenge regarding habilitative programming efforts.
O(1) query time algorithm for all pairs shortest distances on permutation graphs

We present an algorithm for the all pairs shortest distance problem on permutation graphs. Given a permutation model for the graph on n vertices, after O(n) preprocessing the algorithm will deliver answers to distance queries in O(1) time. In the EREW PRAM model, preprocessing can be accomplished in O(logn) time with O(n) work. Where the distance between query vertices is k, a path can be delivered in O(k) time. The method is based on reduction to bipartite permutation graphs, a further reduction to unit interval graphs, and a coordinatization of unit interval graphs.
Community trends in the early detection of breast cancer in Wisconsin, 1980–1998

Abstract Background Early detection of breast cancer is an important public health goal. Rates of early detection have increased over the past several decades, contributing to recent declines in mortality. Despite these overall trends, however, some populations have experienced less progress than others. Methods The rates of early detection, measured as the percentage of breast cancers diagnosed as breast carcinoma in situ, were calculated using data from Wisconsin's population-based tumor registry from 1980 to 1998. Trends in breast cancer (percent diagnosed in situ) were examined over time by socioeconomic characteristics of ZIP code of residence, using census data. Results The percentage of breast cancer cases that were breast carcinoma in situ was more than five times greater in the later period (1994–1998) (13.9%), compared with the early period (1980–1984) (2.6%). In the middle period (1987–1991), breast cancer was diagnosed as breast carcinoma in situ about one-third less frequently among women in areas with the lowest urbanization, median family income, and percent educated beyond high school, compared with communities with the highest levels of these variables. Recently disparities in early detection rates by community income and education indicators declined slightly, whereas disparities in percent of breast carcinoma in situ by urbanization did not. Conclusions Communities with lower levels of income, education, and urbanization lagged in the early detection of breast cancer during the 1980s and, despite some progress during the 1990s, continue to be underserved. Women in these communities should be targeted for interventions to improve the early detection of breast cancer.
Feasibility demonstration of cryogenic fluid gauging for space vehicle applications

This article describes a gauging concept for determining the mass of liquid contained in a tank in a lowgravity environment. The concept, which is referred to herein as the "compressibility gauge," is based on the thermodynamic principle that the pressure of gas or vapor changes when its volume changes. In operation, the tank volume is changed slightly by an oscillating bellows (pulser) and the corresponding change in tank pressure is measured. The primary objective of the present investigation of this concept was to explore the effects specific to gauging cryogenic fluids, such as heat, mass, and momentum transport at the liquid-vapor-tank interfaces, on the accuracy of the gauge. Freon-11 was used as a convenient laboratory fluid to simulate liquid hydrogen and other cryogens. The test results and analyses indicate that cryogenic effects can have a significant effect on gauging accuracy. Nonetheless, it is concluded that the gauge has the potential of high accuracy in low gravity, to use simple hardware, and to be lightweight for space vehicle applications.
Personality hardiness, occupational stress, and burnout in critical care nurses.

Personality hardiness, occupational stress, and burnout were investigated in 100 critical care nurses. Hardiness was predictive of occupational stress and burnout. Hierarchical multiple regressions revealed that one of the three dimensions of hardiness, commitment to work, was the only variable to account for significant amounts of variance (up to 24%) across three of four measures of burnout. The study did not provide support for the stress buffering effect of hardiness. That is, an interaction term, hardiness × occupational stress, was not convincingly predictive of burnout in nurses. The findings are discussed in terms of other research on burnout in critical care nurses and recent issues on the conceptualization of hardiness.
Release of atrazine and alachlor from clay-oxamide controlled-release formulations

Controlled-release herbicide formulations have been shown to decrease the leaching potential of several herbicides under laboratory and -eld conditions. The utility and efficacy of these formulations may be improved by combining several herbicides and a fertilizer source in a single formulation. The objective of these studies was to develop granular alginate formulations that were composed of a combination of the herbicides atrazine and alachlor with the slow-release nitrogen source oxamide (ethanediamide). Controlled release of the herbicides was obtained by addition of selected minerals, including calcium bentonite, -ne- grind bentonite, montmorillonite K10, kaolinite and iron (III) oxide. A formula- tion without clay was used as a comparison. The formulations tested had herbicide active ingredient contents ranging from D0E02 to 0E54% and a nitro- gen content of 21%. Release of the herbicides was studied by equilibrating the formulations with deionized water on a rotary shaker at 200 rev min~1 and sam- pling at regular time intervals up to 104 hours. The minerals used in the di†erent formulations inNuenced the herbicide active ingredient composition, as well as the release properties of the individual formulations. The atrazine content of the formulations decreased in the order calcium bentonite ( -ne-grind bentonite ( kaolinite ( montmorillonite \ iron oxide ( no clay. For alachlor the content decreased in the order of calcium bentonite ( -ne-grind bentonite ( montmorillonite ( iron oxide ( kaolinite ( no clay. Controlled release of atrazine (i.e. reduction in release rate) varied in the order calcium bentonite ( iron oxide ( montmorillonite ( -ne-grind bentonite \ kaolinite ( no clay, and for alachlor -ne-grind bentonite ( calcium bentonite ( montmorillonite ( no clay \ kaolinite \ iron oxide. A certain per- centage of the applied active ingredient of both alachlor and atrazine was not recovered. From 5 to 27% of the active ingredient was not released, with the greatest retention by the bentonite formulations. Release of nitrogen was not strongly inNuenced by mineral type, although a trend indicated greater release with formulations containing kaolinite. 1998 SCI ( Pestic. Sci., 53, 233E240 (1998)
Time-of-Flight Tip-Clearance Measurements

In this paper a time-of-flight probe system incorporating the two integrated fiber optic probes which are tilted equally relative to the probe holder centerline, is applied for the first time to measure the tip clearance of an advanced fan prototype. Tip clearance is largely independent of the signal amplitude and it relies on timing measurement. This work exposes optical effects associated with the fan blade stagger angle that were absent during the original spin-rig experiment on the zero stagger rotor. Individual blade tip clearances were measured with accuracy of +/- 127-mm (+/- 0.005-in). Probe features are discussed and improvements to the design are suggested.
Averting Armed International Conflicts Through State-to-State Territorial Transfers

This study examines how changes in land's ownership (i.e., territorial transfers) influence the prospects of future armed conflict between countries gaining and losing land. The losing country is motivated by the value of the lost land, while the winner is motivated by the value of additional land it desires but which the loser still controls. Relative power and transfer process condition whether these motivations are turned into the post-transfer use of force. Three basic processes of how the land changed hands are considered: peaceful, overwhelming victory, and violent (but short of an overwhelming victory). The findings show that both peaceful and overwhelming victory transfers are significantly better in terms of minimizing the chances of post-transfer conflict than are their violent counterparts and that intangible factors such as disputed land's ethnic value play less of a role in conflict onset for both parties than do tangible factors such as disputed land's strategic and economic value.
Terahertz pioneers: A series of interviews with significant contributors to terahertz science and technology [Philippe Goy]

In keeping with the intent of these articles to span disciplinary, continental, and application area boundaries, this month's Pioneer article focuses on Philippe Goy who not only spent a career contributing to basic physics, but who also furnished the THz community with its first widely distributed, general purpose, solid-state test and measurement instrument - the AB MILLIMETRE (ABmm) Millimeter Vector Network Analyzer (MVNA). A mathematician, an electronics tinkerer, a talented photographer, a fiction writer, a business man, an historian, all emerge from the discussion, as one tries to understand the whole from the sum of its parts. Although the 2012 Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded to Philippe Goy's long time colleague and friend at the Ecole Normale Superieure, Serge Haroche, it was the high quality factor superconducting cavities and the precursor of the ABmm MVNA that allowed Haroche to capture and measure the characteristics of the loosely bound electrons that made up his Rydberg atoms. This millimeter-wave instrumentation was developed and painstakingly employed for several decades in the quantum physics division at Ecole Normale Superieure, the laboratory in which Philippe Goy worked and called home since he began his long and distinguished career in solid-state physics at the age of 24.
The Use of Arts and Crafts in the Rehabilitation of the Adult Burn Patient

The purpose of this study was to gain insight into one small aspect of occupational therapy: the use of arts and crafts in the rehabilitation of the adult burn patient. While burn care literature is plentiful, that related specifically to occupational therapy treatment of burn patients is scarce. A survey was mailed to occupational therapists in 165 burn units across the United States. Responses to survey questions indicate that a majority of respondents (73%%) do not use arts and crafts in the rehabilitation of adult burn patients, while 26%% do use these modalities. Those respondents who do use arts and crafts stated that they use leatherwork, painting, and woodworking most frequently. Therapists who do not use arts and crafts indicated that their primary reasons for not doing so were the acutely ill status of the patients and wound drainage/sterility issues. The entire scope of occupational therapy treatment of burn patients deserves greater attention as it is a challenging and rapidly-evolving area of...
7-MHz, 1.1-kW demonstration of the new E/F/sub 2,odd/ switching amplifier class

The first switching amplifier in the new E/F/sub 2,odd/ class belonging to the new E/F/sub x/ family of switching power amplifiers has been successfully demonstrated. This push-pull amplifier exhibits 1.1 kW, 85% drain efficiency and 17 dB gain at 7 MHz. The amplifier uses low cost switching MOSFETs and fits in a small volume of only 900 cm/sup 3/ including an integrated cooling fan.
Tree vigour and the susceptibility of Douglas fir to Armillaria root disease.

Summary In this study the effects of thinning, fertilization and pruning on the vigour of Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) and its susceptibility to Armillaria root disease were explored. Tree vigour was defined as the relative capacity for tree growth, expressed as the above-ground biomass increment per unit of photosynthetic tissue, or growth efficiency (GE). It has been hypothesized that trees with higher GE can better resist pathogen attack, and that GE can be used as a predictor of tree susceptibility to disease. In a previous study, four Douglas fir plantations were thinned, fertilized and pruned in all combinations, and the effects of these treatments on tree vigour were measured after 10 years. Root disease was not a factor in the initial study design, and mortality was ignored until 8 years after the treatments were applied. The results of an earlier study were utilized and the correlation between Armillaria root disease incidence and the effects of earlier stand treatments on tree growth was tested. Armillaria ostoyae was the primary mortality agent in the study area. Disease incidence on infested subplots ranged from 2 to 20%. Armillaria ostoyae incidence was the highest at medium tree density (6.1%), slightly lower on the low density (5.6%), and lowest on the unthinned plots (3.8%). There were no significant correlations between disease incidence and previous tree growth. The vigour of trees that became symptomatic or died by 1993 was not significantly different in 1983–85 from the vigour of trees that remained asymptomatic. On these sites, in areas of infestation, A. ostoyae is killing the largest, fastest growing trees, as well as less vigorous trees. Armillaria continues to cause mortality, regardless of the growth efficiency or growth rate of the host.
Fully coupled fluid–structural interactions using an efficient high resolution upwind scheme

The E-CUSP upwind scheme recently developed by Zha and Hu is extended to the moving grid system and is applied to calculate the flow-induced vibration based on a fully coupled fluid–structure interaction methodology. The scheme is used to calculate the flow-induced vibration of an elastically mounted cylinder, forced pitching airfoil, and an elastically mounted airfoil. The numerical results are compared with experimental data and have demonstrated the accuracy, efficiency and robustness of the new E-CUSP scheme for solving flow-induced vibration problems with moving mesh systems.
Partial Differential Approximants for Multivariable Power Series. III. Enumeration of Invariance Transformations

A partial differential approximant (or an ordinary rational approximant) which approximates a function, f ( x , y ), of two variables may be invariant under certain changes of variable ( x , y ) ⇒ ( x ¯ , y ¯ ). We prove that, under fairly mild conditions, such invariance is possible for only five classes of variable transformations, namely: the Euler transformations x ¯ = A x /(1+B x ) and y ¯ = C y /(1+D y ); homogeneous linear transformations of x and y ; Euler-rotations’ x ¯ = (A 1 x +A 2 y )/ (1+C x +D y ) and y ¯ = (B 1 x +B 2 y )/(1+C x +D y ); the skew Euler transformations x ¯ = A y /(1+B y ) and y ¯ = C x /(1+D x ); and transformations such as x ¯ = A x and y ¯ = x C( x )+B y , where C( x ) is a polynomial. This result also holds for ordinary two variable rotational approximants.
A note on the Hamiltonian circuit problem on directed path graphs

Abstract Bertossi and Bonuccelli (1986) proved that the Hamiltonian Circuit Problem is NP-complete even when the inputs are restricted to the special class of undirected path graphs. The corresponding problem on directed path graphs was left as an open problem. We use a characterization of directed path graphs due to Monma and Wei (1986) to prove that the Hamiltonian Circuit Problem and the Hamiltonian Path Problem are NP-complete on directed path graphs.
Technology development and integration: an empirical study of the interaction between applied science and product development

The authors report on the results of an empirical study of the development of products based on novel technologies. Their observations are based on field investigations of recent projects performed by all leading mainframe computer producers. All projects focused on the development of advanced technologies for a specific product application, and probed deeply into its science base. The results indicate striking differences in development lead time and R&D productivity between different groups of firms. The authors relate the development performance of the projects to managerial and organizational structures and processes for the integration of new technology. >
Theoretical analysis of hydrostatic implodable volumes with solid inner structures

The basic analytical theory for hydrostatically caused implosions of spherical volumes, which has been known for nearly a century, has been extended for the treatment of annular volumes with solid inner structures. Theoretical analyses are developed that treat the inner structure as infinitely hard, elastically deformable, plastically deformable or shattering under the influence of the pressure from the surrounding implosion event. Parametric studies are made of the effect that the inner structure's geometric and material properties have on the pressure field of the surrounding water. It is concluded that the pressure waves produced by the imploding volume are significantly affected by the existence of an inner structure and the inner structure's physical properties. This is an important consideration in assessing the effect of an underwater implosion event on nearby structures.
Multiple-target tracking and identity management in clutter, with application to aircraft tracking

In this paper, the problem of tracking and managing the identity of multiple targets in a cluttered environment is discussed and applied to passive radar tracking of aircraft. The targets are assumed to be hybrid systems. We propose a filter based on joint probabilistic data association for target-measurement correlation combined with an identity management algorithm and an algorithm that we have developed in earlier work for hybrid state estimation. The multiple-target tracking and identity management algorithm, also incorporates suitable local information, when available, in a manner that decreases the uncertainty, as measured by system entropy. In situations in which local information is not explicitly available, a version of local information incorporation based on multiple hypothesis testing is included to improve identity management. The algorithm allows us to track multiple targets, each capable of multiple modes of operation, in the presence of interference which could be both noise in the continuous processes as well as in the form of spurious measurements.
Corporate Taxes, Choice among Accounting Alternatives, and Information Content of Earnings

A model is developed to study managerial strategies vis-a-vis choice of accounting alternatives and earnings reports where the manager is better informed than the market about firm prospects. How corporate taxation affects these strategies is a focal aspect of this study. In the information equilibrium identified, managers of firms with higher future cash flows choose income-increasing accounting alternatives and report higher earnings in spite of the potential corporate tax consequences. The optimal earnings reports are shown to involve some intertemporal smoothing. The announcement effects and the comparative statics properties derived provide a rich menu of testable implications.
Malate dehydrogenase: A model for structure, evolution, and catalysis

Malate dehydrogenases are widely distributed and alignment of the amino acid sequences show that the enzyme has diverged into 2 main phylogenetic groups. Multiple amino acid sequence alignments of malate dehydrogenases also show that there is a low degree of primary structural similarity, apart from in several positions crucial for nucleotide binding, catalysis, and the subunit interface. The 3-dimensional structures of several malate dehydrogenases are similar, despite their low amino acid sequence identity. The coenzyme specificity of malate dehydrogenase may be modulated by substitution of a single residue, as can the substrate specificity. The mechanism of catalysis of malate dehydrogenase is similar to that of lactate dehydrogenase, an enzyme with which it shares a similar 3-dimensional structure. Substitution of a single amino acid residue of a lactate dehydrogenase changes the enzyme specificity to that of a malate dehydrogenase, but a similar substitution in a malate dehydrogenase resulted in relaxation of the high degree of specificity for oxaloacetate. Knowledge of the 3-dimensional structures of malate and lactate dehydrogenases allows the redesign of enzymes by rational rather than random mutation and may have important commercial implications.
Experiences in building a multihoming load balancing system

The growing popularity of consumer broadband connection technology, in particular cable TV and ADSL, has started a quiet revolution that will reshape the Internet connectivity solutions for commercial enterprises. One emerging theme is the replacement of dedicated lines based on frame relay or ISDN technologies with multiple inexpensive ADSL/cable TV links each of which potentially is subscribed from a different ISP. The key enabling technology for this revolution is multihoming load balancing, which spreads an enterprise's Internet traffic among multiple access links to increase the aggregate throughput, and diverts traffic away from non-functional links when they fail. Although there exist several commercial multihoming load balancing products in the marketplace, very little is published about the design tradeoffs and their performance implications. We describe the design space of multihoming load balancing systems, discuss the tradeoffs involved in load balancing and fail-over implementation strategies, and present quantitative performance measurements collected on a commercial multihoming load balancing system.
Cell differentiation in multispectral image cytology

This paper presents a multispectral microscopy system for quantitative cytology. The automated system aims to classify microscopic samples for the purpose of disease diagnosis. While conventional practices rely on the analysis of grey scale or RGB color images, presented system uses thirty one spectral bands for analysis. Algorithms designed to enable image acquisition, image segmentation, feature extraction, and classification are presented. Results are presented for the problem of discriminating among four cell types. In addition, classification performance is compared to the case where multispectral information is not taken into consideration. Results show that the developed system and the use of multispectral information along with morphometric information extracted from spectral images can significantly improve the classification performance and aid in the process of disease diagnosis.
Metal ion release from titanium‐based prosthetic segmental replacements of long bones in baboons: A long‐term study

Forty-five baboons that had received titanium-based fiber metal composite segmental bone replacements were studied along with 13 controls without implants. Thirty-eight baboons with implants were sacrificed, and titanium, aluminum, and vanadium levels were assayed in homogenized lung, kidney, spleen, liver, adjacent muscle, and regional lymph nodes. In seven living baboons with implants, blood and urine samples were obtained for trace metal analysis as well as for biochemical and hematological profiles. In the 38 sacrificed baboons with implants, increased titanium levels were noted in the lungs, spleen, adjacent muscle (quadriceps, soleus, and triceps), and regional lymph nodes (inguinal, axillary, and popliteal) in comparison to those of six sacrificed controls without implants. In addition, vanadium was significantly elevated in the lungs of some animals, while aluminum increases were noted in adjacent muscle (quadriceps, soleus, and triceps), lung, and regional lymph nodes (inguinal, axillary, and popliteal). In the seven living baboons with implants, a sixfold increase (p less than 0.0005) in the urine titanium level was noted in comparison to that of seven living controls without implants. Additionally, elevated aluminum levels were found in the serum (p less than 0.0005) of the group with implants. Biochemical and hematological studies did not indicate statistically significant differences in serum electrolytes, in liver and renal function tests, or in complete blood counts between the seven living baboons with implants and their controls.
Does memory loss occur after MR imaging

In four separate studies, the existence of specific memory loss after magnetic resonance (MR) imaging at 1.5 T was assessed by means of recognition and recall tests for faces, common objects, lexical items, and by digit span, in a pre-post paradigm. Although specific memory loss was demonstrated, it was shown that the loss was not due to the main magnetic field of the imager or to radio-frequency pulse sequences, but rather to probable psychological (not physical) factors. No gross or subtle memory changes could be attributed to MR imaging, because control groups showed similar patterns of memory loss.