cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abridgment of transient torque-angle characteristics of synchronous machines

Mechanical oscillations of synchronous motors following the application of abrupt shaft loads have not heretofore been easily calculated for cases of large angular swings, taking into account the damping currents in the rotor, except by tedious point-by-point methods. The chief difficulty has been due to the form of the basic differential equation upon which the solution of hunting problems depends. Within the last few years, Doctor V. Bush and others at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology have devised the integraph which is capable of solving the equations of the synchronous motor. Into the integraph are put curves representing the non-linear differential equations and the boundary conditions. The desired results come from the integraph as curves. In this paper, the problem of sudden load on the non-salient pole alternator is solved by the integraph for enough different conditions so that the performance of practically any machine of this type may easily be predicted from the compiled results. Knowing the moments of inertia of the machine and its load, the characteristics of the machine running as a synchronous motor and as an induction motor, the maximum amount of sudden load for which the machine will remain in synchronism may be determined for different values of initial load. Other curves give the maximum angle of the first swing of the rotor and the time interval for the rotor to change from Us initial position to this maximum angle. The simplest type of equation representing an ideal synchronous machine is solved in this paper. The integraph is capable of solving problems of a much more complicated nature than those presented. The more complicated problems pertaining to machines with unsymmetrical excitation and salient-pole rotors will probably be the subjects of future papers.
Is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease an independent risk factor for transfusion in coronary artery bypass graft surgery

Objective: The literature is inconsistent regarding the role of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) as a risk factor for blood product transfusion during coronary artery bypass graft (CABG). One reason may be lack of objective criteria to define COPD in previously published reports. We examined the role of COPD as a risk factor for transfusion using a strict definition based on objective pulmonary function test (PFT) data. Methods: We identified 180 patients, who underwent primary isolated non-emergent CABG and had PFTs performed preoperatively. COPD was defined as forced expiratory volume in 1 s/forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC) 0.05). Transfusion rates were similar for patients with and without COPD. Further stratification into mild/moderate/severe/very severe COPD failed to identify COPD as a predictor of blood transfusion. Conclusions: Using objective PFT data, our study clarifies the disagreement in the literature with respect to the role of COPD as a risk factor for transfusion in CABG. Decreased pulmonary function does not appear to increase risk of transfusion during CABG, even for patients with severe COPD. # 2011 European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Raman spectroscopic study of the valinomycin-KSCN complex

Abstract This paper reports the first Raman spectroscopic study of the potassium complex of the cation-specific antibiotic valinomycin. Complete Raman spectra (140 to 3600 cm−1) of crystalline valinomycin-KSCN and its CCl4, CHCl3 and C2H5OH solutions are presented and used to probe the structure of the complex in these environments. In all cases a single, narrow peak is observed in the ester CO stretch region (1750 to 1775 cm−1) which contrasts strongly with the broad bands observed in solutions of uncomplexed valinomycin. This is consistent with the presence of a single conformation in which all six ester CO groups co-ordinate an enclosed potassium ion. We find that although the ester CO stretch frequencies of the complex are similar in the solid state and in non-polar solution (~1770 cm−1) they are considerably different in the presence of polar solvents (~1756 cm−1); this may indicate that the complexed potassium ion is still free to interact with nearby solvent ions (and possibly its counterion) through gaps in the hydrophobic “shield” provided by the hydrocarbon residues of valinomycin. In contrast the amide CO frequencies of the complex (~1650 cm−1) are solvent-independent. These groups are apparently strongly hydrogen-bonded to provide a rather rigid, compact framework for the complex conformation.
Risk Prediction for Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes in a Medicaid Population

Abstract Background: Despite prior efforts to develop pregnancy risk prediction models, there remains a lack of evidence to guide implementation in clinical practice. The current aim was to develop and validate a risk tool grounded in social determinants theory for use among at-risk Medicaid patients. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study of 409 women across 17 Cincinnati health centers between September 2013 and April 2014. The primary outcomes included preterm birth, low birth weight, intrauterine fetal demise, and neonatal death. After random allocation into derivation and validation samples, a multivariable model was developed, and a risk scoring system was assessed and validated using area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) values. Results: The derived multivariable model (n=263) included: prior preterm birth, interpregnancy interval, late prenatal care, comorbid conditions, history of childhood abuse, substance use, tobacco use, body mass index, race, twin gestation, ...
Novel route to alumina and aluminate interlayer coatings for SiC, carbon, and Kevlart® fiber-reinforced ceramic matrix composites using carboxylate–alumoxane nanoparticles

SiC, carbon, and Kevlart® fibers were coated with carboxylate–alumoxane nanoparticles and their calcium-, lanthanum-, and yttrium-doped analogs; firing to 1400 °C formed uniform aluminate coatings. Optimum processing sequences were determined. Both carboxylate–alumoxane- and ceramic-coated fibers were examined by field emission scanning electron microscopy, microprobe analysis, and optical microscopy. Coatings produced were stable to thermal cycling under air at 1400 °C. Fiber-reinforced ceramic matrix composites were prepared and results from 3-point bend tests for carbon/Kevlar®-fabric-reinforced ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) and carbon-fiber-reinforced CMCs were determined. Flexure strength for carbon-fiber- and carbon/Kevlart®-fiber-reinforced alumina CMCs was determined.
Lexical retrieval: The tip-of-the-tongue phenomenon

An experiment is reported in which university undergraduates were given word definitions and asked to say aloud all responses that came to mind in the course of their attempts to retrieve the target words. Results showed that phonologically similar responses and word-fragments are good predictors of target word knowledge and the likelihood of eventual success in retrieval. Responses which were semantically related to the target word were less predictive of eventual success. Results are discussed in terms of their implications for interpreting tip-of-the-tongue analyses as a “window” on the process of word retrieval.
Phospholipid:Diacylglycerol Acyltransferase Is a Multifunctional Enzyme Involved in Membrane Lipid Turnover and Degradation While Synthesizing Triacylglycerol in the Unicellular Green Microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii

Many unicellular microalgae produce large amounts (∼20 to 50% of cell dry weight) of triacylglycerols (TAGs) under stress (e.g., nutrient starvation and high light), but the synthesis and physiological role of TAG are poorly understood. We present detailed genetic, biochemical, functional, and physiological analyses of phospholipid:diacylglycerol acyltransferase (PDAT) in the green microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, which catalyzes TAG synthesis via two pathways: transacylation of diacylglycerol (DAG) with acyl groups from phospholipids and galactolipids and DAG:DAG transacylation. We demonstrate that PDAT also possesses acyl hydrolase activities using TAG, phospholipids, galactolipids, and cholesteryl esters as substrates. Artificial microRNA silencing of PDAT in C. reinhardtii alters the membrane lipid composition, reducing the maximum specific growth rate. The data suggest that PDAT-mediated membrane lipid turnover and TAG synthesis is essential for vigorous growth under favorable culture conditions and for membrane lipid degradation with concomitant production of TAG for survival under stress. The strong lipase activity of PDAT with broad substrate specificity suggests that this enzyme could be a potential biocatalyst for industrial lipid hydrolysis and conversion, particularly for biofuel production.
Effects of calcium infusion on urinary hydroxyproline and phosphorus: evaluation as a diagnostic test.

The effects of calcium infusion (15 rag Ca/kg body wt) on urinary hydroxyproline and phosphorus have been studied in 4 patients with hyperparathyroidism, 3 patients with hypoparathyroidism, 7 normal subjects, 13 stone formers, 4 patients with chronic renal insufficiency, 2 patients with acromegaly, 1 patient with sarcoidosis, 1 with hyperthyroidism, 1 with Paget's disease, 1 with milk-alkali syndrome and 1 with pseudohypoparathyroidism. Calcium infusion lowered urinary hydroxyproline and phosphorus 14% or more below control levels in all subjects except those with hyperparathyroidism, hypoparathyroidism or pseudohypoparathyroidism. The decreases in urinary hydroxyproline and phosphorus occurred on the day of infusion in all subjects except 2 with chronic renal insufficiency, in whom they occurred on the day after infusion. The results indicate that the test may be of value in evaluating parathyroid function.
Ballistic deflection transistors and the emerging nanoscale era

This paper presents a brief survey of the state of the art in nanoscale electronics, with special emphasis on room-temperature nanoscale ballistic deflection transistors (BDTs) and T-branch junctions (TBJs). Both devices are planar structures etched into a two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG). Extremely low capacitances (∼0.2 fF) in the 2DEG system and low switching voltages (∼0.15 V) predict THz performance and ultra-low power consumption, making BDTs and TBJs among the most promising and versatile of ballistic nanoelectronic devices. Obstacles in circuit and logic design using the BDT are presented along with potential solutions. I–V characteristics from a fabricated BDT and simulation results from a two-input BDT NAND gate are provided. Future plans to facilitate large-scale integration are discussed.
Diastolic dysfunction: one piece of the heart failure with normal ejection fraction puzzle.

It has recently become firmly established that patients can experience chronic and acute heart failure with a normal ejection fraction (HFNEF).1–5 We now know this disorder is the dominant form of HF in the community, and that compared with HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFREF), it is increasing in prevalence and incidence,6 causes at least as many hospitalizations and healthcare expenditures,1,6,7 causes at least as severe chronic symptoms and reduced objectively measured exercise tolerance,4 and, once patients are hospitalized, has death rates that are similarly grim.1,6 Until recently, however, we have invested nearly all our resources into understanding the pathophysiology and treatment of HFREF. As a result, a physician managing a patient with HFREF can rely on practice guidelines that are solidly supported by dozens of large trials demonstrating substantial improvements in each of the meaningful HF outcomes: mortality, hospitalizations, exercise intolerance, and reduced quality of life. When the patient instead has HFNEF, there is relatively little information about pathophysiology or treatment to guide the physician. This fact is reflected in outcomes, which a recent study indicates are improving in patients with HFREF but worsening in those with HFNEF.6 This disconcerting imbalance is magnified by sex and age, as the large burden of HFNEF falls primarily on older women.1,2,6 Article p 2051 In the present issue of Circulation , Westermann and colleagues8 report a welcomed and important study aimed at addressing the dearth of information about the pathophysiology of HFNEF. They studied 70 very well-characterized patients with documented symptoms of HF, normal left ventricular (LV) EF, and no other detectable cause for their symptoms, including pulmonary and ischemic heart disease. The investigators used a conductance catheter to measure pressure–volume loops during supine rest, handgrip exercise, and atrial pacing to 120 bpm. They …
A Risk-Return Model for Multiregion and Multiproduct Diversification of the Firm

The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate that the integration of locational considerations into product-diversification planning has the potential of supplying gains to the firm by providing hedges against both product-portfolio and location-portfolio risk. An efficient diversification frontier for region – product strategic planning is generated from hypothetical data for purposes of illustration. Results of the analysis are in agreement with Wahlroos's theory of the diversification of the firm.
Dual-pump coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering measurements of nitrogen and oxygen in a laminar jet diffusion flame

Dual-pump coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) has been demonstrated for the simultaneous measurement of gas-phase temperature and concentrations of molecular nitrogen and oxygen. A polarization technique was used to vary the relative intensities of the two CARS signals and expand the dynamic range of the relative concentration measurements. Detailed temperature and oxygen mole fraction measurements were performed in the stabilization region of a hydrogen-nitrogen jet diffusion flame. These results indicate that there is a region below the nozzle exit where significant amounts of oxygen are found on the fuel side of the peak flame temperature profile.
PHYSIOLOGICAL BASES OF FEEDING BEHAVIOUR IN SALAMANDERS: DO MOTOR PATTERNS VARY WITH PREY TYPE?

Summary Muscle activity patterns (motor patterns) of the jaw musculature of all vertebrates studied to date (primarily fishes and amniotes) vary considerably when they feed on different types of prey. Previous data on buccal pressure patterns suggested that feeding in the aquatic salamander, Ambystoma mexicanum (Shaw), is highly stereotyped. This hypothesis was tested by quantifying the motor pattern used during feeding on two prey types: earthworms and guppies. Twenty-nine variables were measured from the activity pattern of six cranial muscles in the feeding mechanism of Ambystoma mexicanum. These variables included the area under the electromyogTam of each muscle, relative muscle onset times, and the amplitudes and durations of muscle bursts. Univariate and multivariate statistical analyses demonstrate that the feeding motor pattern of Ambystoma mexicanum is stereotyped and does not change with prey type, in contrast to motor patterns of other vertebrates studied to date. Individual salamanders use significantly different motor patterns from one another during feeding, but do not alter their motor pattern during feeding on different prey.
Dielectric Wall Accelerator Technology

Summary form given only. The dielectric wall accelerator (DWA) is a compact pulsed power device where the pulse forming lines, switching, and vacuum wall is integrated into a single compact geometry. We are presently in the process of fabricating an accelerator cell for test on ETA-II (a 5.5 MeV, 2 kA, 70 ns pulsewidth electron beam accelerator). For this effort, we embarked on an extensive compact pulsed power development program and have pursued the study of switching (gas, oil, laser induced surface flashover and photoconductive), dielectrics (ceramics and nanoparticle composites), pulseforming line topologies (asymetric and symetric Blumleins and zero integral pulse forming lines) and multilayered vacuum insulator (HGI) technology. We review our past results and report on the progress of accelerator cell testing.
Coupling Capillary Electrophoresis and Pulsed Electrochemical Detection

Pulsed electrochemical detection (PED) is an excellent method for detection of analytes that normally foul electrodes. In PED, the detection electrode is first cleaned at a high positive potential, then reactivated at a negative potential dissolving the surface oxide, and finally used to oxidize the analyte at a moderate positive potential. Due to the advantages and versatility of PED, many different variations of the detection waveform can be found in literature. This review focuses on application of PED to CE and in particular, the most commonly used modes: pulsed amperometric detection (PAD) and integrated pulsed amperometric detection (iPAD).
Development of macroporous poly(ethylene glycol) hydrogel arrays within microfluidic channels.

The mass transport of solutes through hydrogels is an important design consideration in materials used for tissue engineering, drug delivery, and protein arrays used to quantify protein concentration and activity. We investigated the use of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) as a porogen to enhance diffusion of macromolecules into the interior of polyacrylamide and PEG hydrogel posts photopatterned within microfluidic channels. The diffusion of GST-GFP and dextran-FITC into hydrogels was monitored and effective diffusion coefficients were determined by fitting to the Fickian diffusion equations. PEG-diacrylate (Mr 700) with porogen formed a macroporous structure and permitted significant penetration of 250 kDa dextran. Proteins copolymerized in these macroporous hydrogels retained activity and were more accessible to antibody binding than proteins copolymerized in nonporous gels. These results suggest that hydrogel macroporosity can be tuned to regulate macromolecular transport in applications such as tissue eng...
Iodine concentration in Psammoma bodies in the thyroids of rats fed an iodine-deficient diet for long periods.

Radioiodine concentration in or around psammoma bodies in the thyroids of rats fed an iodine-deficient diet for several months has been demonstrated by radioautography. Radioactivity appears in the psammoma bodies within 5 min after intravenous injection of radioiodine. The radioactivity in the psammoma bodies does not disappear during 24 days’ treatment with propylthiouracil and perchlorate even though most of the radioactivity is lost from the remaining thyroid tissue. It is suggested that the psammoma bodies may contain a major part of the iodine which has a long biologic half-life in the thyroids of chronically iodine-deficient rats. (Endocrinology 87: 245, 1970)
Dietary habits, prepregnancy weight, and weight gain during pregnancy. Risk of pre term rupture of amniotic sac membranes.

Background: Premature rupture of amniotic sac membranes (PROM) is associated with perinatal morbidity and mortality. A matched case-control study was undertaken to determine whether dietary habits, prepregnancy weight, and weight gain during pregnancy were associated with increased risks for PROM.Methods: Three study groups were defined, consisting of women delivering pre term with PROM (PP), full term with PROM (FP), and pre term without PROM (PWP). Cases were singly matched by race, age, and parity with women having full term deliveries without PROM. Data were collected by face-to-face structured interviews with eligible subjects and by medical records abstraction.Results: Conditional multiple logistic regression indicated that during pregnancy, PP cases were significantly more likely to have gained < 21 pounds (9.5 kg) (OR = 2.7, CI = 1.146.36) and were only half as likely as controls to have improved their diet (OR = 0.43, CI = O.lRo.99) while controlling for cigarette smoking, urinary tract infection...
Economic Attitudes and Responses to Siting Hazardous Waste Facilities in Rural Utah1

Abstract The siting of hazardous waste facilities has become a critical problem for the United States. Many western states are plagued with proposals to site such facilities. While the host communities appear to be typical western rural communities, responses to siting hazardous waste facilities vary. Previous research suggests that key variables in predicting responses are the anticipation of economic benefits and the perception of risk. This paper proposes that response to siting hazardous industries in rural Utah is not only a result of these key variables but also residents' perception of the local economy. Results from ethnographic and survey data from three rural communities in Utah indicate that the anticipation of economic benefits and perception of risk were strongly associated with response to a proposal, and that residents of communities with poorer local economies were more likely to support siting a hazardous waste facility locally. 1994 Rural Sociological Society
Brillouin-enhanced four-wave mixing phase conjugator with correction for material, thermal, and birefringence aberrations and passive output control

Summary form only given. In our arrangement both the seed beam and signal beam are generated by the same Nd:YAG laser oscillator. The seed beam is circularly polarized and contains 100 mJ of energy in 10 ns. The signal beam is split using either a polarized pair or a beam splitter. The two beams each pass through laser amplifiers and are split again into two orthogonal polarizations. All five beams, the seed and four signal beams, are focused into a cell containing a Brillouin medium.
Power in Top Management Teams: Dimensions, Measurement, and Validation

Top managers' power plays a key role in strategic decision making. However, although numerous scholars have recognized its importance, very few have attempted to measure the phenomenon. In this article, I present a set of dimensions measuring top managers' power and suggest a measurement methodology to facilitate empirical inquiry. Data from a group of 1,763 top managers in three industries were used to assess the validity and reliability of the power dimensions in three studies. Results demonstrate strong support for the proposed power dimensions.
Epitaxial Thin Films and Heterostrcutures of Copper-Oxide-Based Isotropic Metallic Oxides for Device Applications

We have grown epitaxial thin films of a new family of copper-oxide-based isotropic metallic oxides such as La6.4Sr1.6Cu8O20, La5BaCu6O13 and La6BaYCu8O20 in situ by 900° off-axis sputtering. These metallic oxides are pseudo-cubic perovskites with essentially isotropic properties, which could be ideal normal metals for SNS junctions in superconducting devices. We have also grown epitaxial SNS superconducting heterostructures (c-axis YBa2Cu3O7 / La6.4Sr1.6Cu8O20 / c-axis YBa2Cu3O7) with a copper-oxide-based isotropic metallic oxide (La6.4Sr1.6Cu8O20) normal metal barrier. X-ray diffraction and cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy reveal these heterostructures to have high crystalline quality and clean interfaces. This material will facilitate fabrication of ideal SNS Josephson junctions with low boundary resistance due to its excellent chemical compatibility and lattice match with cuprate superconductors and will be useful for determining the source of interface resistance in such heterostructures.
Functional magnetic resonance imaging of the somatosensory cortex

Functional magnetic resonance (fMR) imaging, like positron emission tomography (PET), shows regions of activation in the brain resulting from the neuronal activity associated with cognitive, sensory, or motor function. An advantage of fMR imaging is that the functional and the reference anatomic images are acquired simultaneously. Additionally, fMR imaging is generally more available than PET or magnetoencephalography. This article reviews the applications of fMR imaging for studying the sensorimotor cortex prior to craniotomy.
Erewhon or Nowhere Land

Throughout a century of Western social thought, mankind’s perennial enquiry into the where, when, and how of life has yielded a rich legacy of speculation. From the ebullient satire of Butler’s Erewhon, (Butler, 1872) and the idealism of utopian fiction, the angry critique of Existentialist and Marxist philosophy and the resounding protest of popular song, evidence abounds that the human spirit remains undaunted in its desire to not only grasp the course of events but also to ameliorate and control the conditions of life. The increasing rate and complexity of change in our day renders the challenge to rationality so overwhelming that at times it becomes difficult to pause, reflect, and evaluate the latent assumptions and implications of scholarly effort. Barriers to communication between separate worlds of scholarship, too, prevent the flow of insight between different specialized perspectives, or the restoration of harmony between the YIN and the YANG of human reason.
Chapter 78 – Dog Heartworm

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses dog heartworm or Dirofilaria immitis, which is an important filarial nematode infection of dogs and canids primarily but can occur in other mammals and occasionally in humans. D. immitis is a filarial nematode in the superfamily Filarioidea (order Spirurida, class Chromadorea). The males are 12–20 cm in length and 0.7–0.9 mm in diameter, with a spirally coiled posterior end. The females are 25–31 cm in length and 1.0–1.3 mm in diameter. Mosquitoes transmit dog heartworm, which occupies the pulmonary arteries and the right ventricle of the heart. Usually no signs of infection are present in dogs until 8–9 months postinfection. Symptoms are generally related to the intensity of infection. The dog, with no signs of disease, may tolerate the presence of 25 worms. Symptoms such as reduced exercise tolerance and coughing increase significantly when the nematode burden doubles and serious symptoms appear, such as dyspnea (difficulty in breathing), hepatomegaly (enlargement of the liver), syncope (temporary loss of consciousness), and ascites. To eliminate this disease, an arsenical drug is currently approved for use in dogs, melarsomine hydrochloride, but pretreatment with ivermectin (StromectolR; Merck) to reduce heartworm mass is recommended. Treatment requires concomitant restriction of exercise and use of anti-inflammatory support to reduce the possibility of pulmonary thromboembolism from the dead heartworms. Microfilaria is eliminated by secondary treatment with ivermectin or milbemycin.
Special education administrators' perceptions of responsibilities and challenges

Â Special education administrators play a vital role in assuring the identification and provision of services to meet the needs of students with disabilities in the least restrictive environment (LRE).Â This study examined the differences in responsibilities and challenges between special education administrators in rural, suburban, and urban school districts in the state of Texas.Â Quantitative data was collected through surveys from 152 special education administrators in the state of Texas.Â A comparative study was conducted using cross tabulation, frequency, and percentage tables.Â Results of this study indicate there are significant differences ( p =<.05) in the responsibilities and level of challenges between special education administrators in rural, suburban, and urban school districts in the areas of collaboration between general education and special education, contracting with outside providers for special services (i.e. OT, PT, music therapy), monitoring staff caseloads, providing access to appropriate materials needed for instruction, participating in the development of district goals and objectives, serving as a resource person in the design and equipping of facilities for students with disabilities, and demonstrating skill in conflict resolution with administrators, parents, teachers, staff, and community.Â The role of the special education administrator requires diversified skills to address responsibilities and challenges that are faced today. Â
Establishing a Professionalism Score in an Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine Curriculum

As osteopathic medical education shifts to competency-based learning, course curriculums must adapt to measure behavioral milestones in addition to traditional knowledge and technical skills. Of the core competencies, medical professionalism or lack thereof has been shown to correlate with future state disciplinary board action; therefore, early identification of poor professionalism and intervention is imperative. However, performance indicators, such as humanistic behavior and primacy of patient need, are difficult to measure in most first- and second-year medical school courses. Therefore, A.T. Still University-Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine developed a rubric to objectively measure professionalism within the first- and second-year osteopathic manipulative medicine curriculum. The rubric assesses such measures as timeliness and professional appearance. In the present article, the author describes the grading rubric and the methods for implementing a professionalism score within an osteopathic manipulative medicine curriculum.
Interest Rate Sensitivity and Equity Values of Life Insurance Companies: A Garch-M Model

The importance of managerial decisions related to interest-sensitive cash flows has received considerable attention in insurance literature. Consistent with the interest-sensitive nature of insurer assets and liabilities, empirical research has shown that insurer insolvency is significantly related to interest rate volatility. We investigate the interest rate sensitivity of monthly stock returns of life insurers based on a generalized autoregressive conditionally heteroskedastic in the mean (GARCH-M) model. We examine three different portfolios (equally-weighted, risk-based, and size-based) with binary variables to explicitly account for varying interest rate strategies adopted by the Federal Reserve System. Results based on data for the period 1975 through 2000 indicate that life insurer equity values are sensitive to long-term interest rates and that interest sensitivity varies across sub-periods and across risk-based and size-based portfolios. The results complement insolvency research that links insurer financial performance to changes in interest rates.
Ischaemic stroke induced by neurocysticerosis, presenting as a clinical and radiological dilemma.

Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is a central nervous system parasitic infection with various clinical presentations, rarely manifesting as an acute stroke. The radiological appearance of this disease entity may be non-specific, at times mimicking an intracranial neoplasm. Early diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion. Serological testing is helpful and, if utilized early, can reduce the morbidity associated with invasive diagnostic techniques. We describe a case of a 32-year-old previously healthy male who presented with neurological deficits. A cystic lesion in the right sylvian cistern was noted, initially identified as a benign arachnoid cyst. The patient's symptoms rapidly progressed to an acute stroke. Follow-up imaging including an MRI of the brain demonstrated a right middle cerebral artery territory infarct adjacent to the cystic lesion, which had been diagnosed as an arachnoid cyst on an initial CT scan. Appearance of the cystic lesion on MRI, however, was concerning for a brain neoplasm or an absc...
Micellar Structures in Nanoparticle-Multiblock Copolymer Complexes

Brownian dynamics simulation is employed to examine the structure changes of complexes composed of a hydrophobic nanoparticle and a multiblock copolymer molecule (MCP). The dependence of the structure transitions on the radius of the nanoparticle, on the interactions between the hydrophobic segments of the MCP, and on the interactions between the hydrophobic segments and hydrophobic nanoparticle is examined. It is shown that the multiblock copolymer adsorbed on a nanoparticle can acquire the structure of a micelle.To better characterize the micelle generated and the structure changes in the nanoparticle–MCP complex, the mass dipole moment of the complex [the distance between the center of mass of MCP and the center of the nanoparticle minus the radius of the nanoparticle (DCC)], the density profiles of MCP segments around its center of mass and around the nanoparticle, the radius of gyration of the MCP, and the thickness of the micelle around the nanoparticle are determined. It was found that, when struct...
Analysis of Computational and Laboratory Shocked Gas-Curtain Experiments

A crucial aspect in collaborative laboratory / computational research is that of adequately characterizing and modeling the conditions in the turbulent flow experiments, so that potential sources of discrepancies can be clearly evaluated and controlled. Shock-driven turbulent flow studies involving under-resolved material mixing promoted by under-resolved velocity field fluctuations and insufficiently characterized initial conditions, are particularly difficult. The present exercise illustrates typical challenges, and reports progress in achieving analysis, scalings, and understanding which can be corroborated by joint laboratory experiments and simulations.
Food-borne pathogen detection in Xuchang

Objective:To find out the pathogenic bacteria pollution status of the food in Xuchang and ascertain the high-risk types of food which can be easily polluted.So we can build the scientific foundation for the test of the pathogenic bacteria.Methods:Appraise the pathogenic bacteria according to GB/T4789-2003.Results:Five categories of food samples have been tested(livestock meats,poultry meats,aquatic products,unleavened bean products and fast frozen wheaten food),100 proportions of pathogenic bacteria were founded in 894 shares of samples and the general detected ratio is 11.2%.The highest positive rate of the pathogenic bacteria has been proven exists in livestock meats and its positive rate is 16.5%.According to priority,the positive rate of poultry meats,aquatic products,unleavened bean products and fast frozen wheaten food is 11.0%,13.5%,6.3%,5.2%.Conclusion:There are varying degrees of the pathogenic bacteria pollution in all the five categories of samples from Xuchang.Among them,meat and aquatic products are the main contaminated food products Species Salmonella mainly exists in meats and Vibrio Parahaemolyticus occurs in the aquatic products mostly.All these types of food products should be paid special attention by the law-enforcing departments and supervisory institutions of the health.Try to reduce and avoid any disease caused by food pollution.
On the trail of community-acquired pneumonia. Recognize the early signs of this respiratory infection to pinpoint effective treatment plan.

Learn the significance of prompt identification, treatment, and education of patients with community-acquired pneumonia.
Model-based linkage analysis of a quantitative trait.

Linkage Analysis is a family-based method of analysis to examine whether any typed genetic markers cosegregate with a given trait, in this case a quantitative trait. If linkage exists, this is taken as evidence in support of a genetic basis for the trait. Historically, linkage analysis was performed using a binary disease trait, but has been extended to include quantitative disease measures. Quantitative traits are desirable as they provide more information than binary traits. Linkage analysis can be performed using single-marker methods (one marker at a time) or multipoint (using multiple markers simultaneously). In model-based linkage analysis the genetic model for the trait of interest is specified. There are many software options for performing linkage analysis. Here, we use the program package Statistical Analysis for Genetic Epidemiology (S.A.G.E.). S.A.G.E. was chosen because it also includes programs to perform data cleaning procedures and to generate and test genetic models for a quantitative trait, in addition to performing linkage analysis. We demonstrate in detail the process of running the program LODLINK to perform single-marker analysis, and MLOD to perform multipoint analysis using output from SEGREG, where SEGREG was used to determine the best fitting statistical model for the trait.
The chlor-alkali process: A review of history and pollution

ABSTRACTThe chlor-alkali process is a widely used electrolytic process that yields chlorine and caustic soda. It has been in use since the 19th century and is a primary industry in the United States, Western Europe, and Japan. There are three primary electrolytic processes for producing chlorine and caustic soda: the diaphragm cell process, the mercury cell process, and the membrane cell process. The first two have been used for over 100 years; the latter was developed in the past 60. The two oldest methods are used the most throughout the world and have been proven to be the most environmentally unfriendly through their use of asbestos and mercury, respectively. The membrane cell process is a superior method in its energy efficiency and lack of harmful chemicals. This article reviews the history of each method, addresses changes in its modern technology and use, and discusses the emissions and outputs of the processes.
Endoscopy in the Elderly: a Cautionary Approach, When to Stop

Performing endoscopic procedures in the elderly carries known enhanced risk compared to the general population. Weighing the benefits against the risks is easy when a patient is in immediate danger, but a gray area arises in screening protocols in an elderly patient of average risk. In this review, we compare national and international guidelines in average risk screening procedures (colonoscopic colorectal screening, Barrett’s surveillance) to find consensus for screening practice in the elderly. With minor differences between societal guidelines, it is widely agreed that 75 years is the appropriate age to begin to weigh risks and benefits according to a patient’s state of health and comorbidities. For colorectal screening, most guidelines advocate complete cessation of screening after the age of 85 years. Such consensus must take into account an aging population where patients are living healthier for longer and thus may be appropriate candidates for screening procedures even if beyond designated ages of screening cessation.
Reported work-related injuries and illnesses among Hispanic workers: results from an emergency department surveillance system follow-back survey

BACKGROUND: Research suggests Hispanic workers underreport injuries/illnesses to their employer. METHODS: The National Electronic Injury Surveillance System-occupational supplement was used to conduct a follow-back study of workers treated in emergency departments (EDs) from June 2012 through December 2013. RESULTS: An estimated 448,000 (95%CI 230,000-665,000) Hispanic workers treated in EDs for a work-related injury or illness were represented by 362 completed interviews. Of these, an estimated 443,000 (95%CI 228,000-657,000) workers reported the injury or illness to their employer or were self-employed. The majority had not heard of workers' compensation. Only 10% expected workers' compensation to cover their medical payment while 62% expected payment to be covered by their employer. CONCLUSION: We characterized our respondent workforce who reported their injury or illness. We determined that NEISS-Work data are not the most appropriate source to capture underreporting of work-related injuries and illnesses to employers among Hispanic workers. Am. J. Ind. Med. 59:621-629, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.© 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Language: en
Dreaming about the neighbours: Magic, Orientalism, and entrepreneurship in the consumption of Thai religious goods in Singapore

For Marcel Mauss (2001 [1902]), magic involves border-crossing, with powers founded upon the potentiality presented by the exotic and the unknown. In a similar vein, Webb Keane (2003) points to the...
WorldClim 2: new 1-km spatial resolution climate surfaces for global land areas

We created a new dataset of spatially interpolated monthly climate data for global land areas at a very high spatial resolution (approximately 1 km2). We included monthly temperature (minimum, maximum and average), precipitation, solar radiation, vapour pressure and wind speed, aggregated across a target temporal range of 1970–2000, using data from between 9000 and 60 000 weather stations. Weather station data were interpolated using thin-plate splines with covariates including elevation, distance to the coast and three satellite-derived covariates: maximum and minimum land surface temperature as well as cloud cover, obtained with the MODIS satellite platform. Interpolation was done for 23 regions of varying size depending on station density. Satellite data improved prediction accuracy for temperature variables 5–15% (0.07–0.17 °C), particularly for areas with a low station density, although prediction error remained high in such regions for all climate variables. Contributions of satellite covariates were mostly negligible for the other variables, although their importance varied by region. In contrast to the common approach to use a single model formulation for the entire world, we constructed the final product by selecting the best performing model for each region and variable. Global cross-validation correlations were ≥ 0.99 for temperature and humidity, 0.86 for precipitation and 0.76 for wind speed. The fact that most of our climate surface estimates were only marginally improved by use of satellite covariates highlights the importance having a dense, high-quality network of climate station data.
From Pawn Shops to Banks : The Impact of Formal Credit on Informal Households

This paper examines the effects of expanding access to credit on the decisions and welfare of households. It focuses on the entry of Banco Azteca, the first bank in Mexico targeting households from the informal sector. Panel data suggest that informal households in municipalities with Banco Azteca branches experienced several changes in their saving, credit and consumption patterns. In order to estimate the impact of Azteca's entry, the paper develops a dynamic model of household choices in which the bank is endogenously selecting the municipalities for branch openings. The analysis finds that in municipalities in which the bank entered, households were better able to smooth their consumption and accumulate more durable goods even though the overall proportion of households that save went down by 6.6 percent. These results suggest that the use of savings as a buffer on income fluctuations declines once formal credit is available. What is more, these effects vary across households. Among informal households, those who never receive formal job offers have the highest decline in saving rates. The model is also used to evaluate a legislation to cap interest rates levied by formal credit institutions. Simulations suggest that if the Mexican government were to cap the interest rate of Azteca at the rate for traditional banks, Azteca would stop operating in the poorest and least populated municipalities.
Building Team Resilience and Debriefing After Difficult Clinical Events: A Resilience Curriculum for Team Leaders.

Introduction Burnout is prevalent among medical trainees and faculty. Resilience, the ability to cope well with stress and thrive during challenges, has been a focus of initiatives to combat burnou...
Signaling Mechanisms and Survival of Service Providers in an Electronic Market

This research studies the survival of software implementation service providers in an electronic market (or e-market), and the role that vendor characteristics such as reputation, education, experience, ‘preferred provider’ status, and references play in predicting which service providers will exit the e-market after it (the e-market) implements trust enhancing mechanisms. Using theories from asymmetric information, signaling, and trust literatures, we propose a model to examine the relation between firm characteristics and survival. Our empirical results support the key role played by these signals in inducing the separating equilibrium that leads to the shakeout among software service providers in an e-market.
The Breeding Ratio with Correlation to Doubling Time and Fuel Cycle Reactivity Variation

The standard definition of the breeding ratio is subject to some suspicion, since in many cases of practical interest it gives an incorrect measure of the fissile fuel doubling time and erroneous trends of the fuel cycle reactivity variation. The reasons for this behavior are given in this study, along with methods for removing the difficulties. In addition to the standard definition, the method of η weighting due to Ott and the method of reactivity weighting due to Baker and Ross (British definition) are examined. It is shown that the η weighting procedure is not much better than the standard definition, whereas the British definition can be used to give very good results for the doubling time and fuel cycle reactivity variation. The standard for comparison is a detailed explicit fuel cycle analysis of both the startup cycle and equilibrium cycle of an oxide fast reactor. With the methods given it is shown that the important quantities needed from a single fuel cycle analysis can be obtained just from a ...
Base excision repair: NMR backbone assignments of Escherichia coli formamidopyrimidine-DNA glycosylase.

Oxidative damage is emerging as one of the most important mechanisms responsible for mutagenesis, carcinogenesis, aging, and various diseases (Farr and Kogma, 1991). One of the potential targets for oxidation is cellular DNA. While exposure to exogenous agents, such as ionizing radiation and chemicals, contributes to damaging DNA, the most important oxidative agents are endogenous, such as the reactive free radicals produced during normal oxidative metabolism (Adelman et., 1988). To mitigate the potentially deleterious effects of oxidative DNA damage virtually all aerobic organisms have developed complex repair mechanisms (Petit and Sancar, 1999). One repair mechanism, base excision repair (BER), appears to be responsible for replacing most oxidative DNA damage (David and Williams, 1998). Formamidopyrimidine-DNA glycosylase (Fpg), a 269-residue metalloprotein with a molecular weight of 30.2 kDa, is a key BER enzyme in prokaryotes (Boiteaux et al., 1987). Substrates recognized and released by Fpg include 7,8-dihydro-8-oxoguanine (8-oxoG), 2,6 diamino-4-hydroxy-5-formamido pyrimidine (Fapy-G), the adenine equivalents 8-oxoA and Fapy-A, 5-hydroxycytosine, 5-hydroxyuracil, B ureidoisobutiric acid, and a-R-hydroxy-B-ureidoisobutiric acid (Freidberg et al., 1995). In vitro Fpg bind double-stranded DNA and performs three catalytic activities: (i) DNA glycosylase, (ii) AP lyase, and (iii) deoxyribophosphodiesterase.
Residential Mobility and Neighborhood Change in Chicago

In this article, the author explores how residential mobility and neighborhood-level change are connected over time. In particular, he asks whether and how neighborhood change trajectories in Chica...
Entry Trajectory Options for High Ballistic Coefficient Vehicles at Mars

Future large-scale Mars surface exploration missions require landed masses beyond the capability of current entry, descent, and landing technology. Hypersonic trajectory options for large ballistic...