cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A graphical method to find the secondary instantaneous centers of zero velocity for the double butterfly linkage

This paper presents a graphical technique to locate the secondary instantaneous centers of zero velocity for a well-known indeterminate linkage; namely, the double butterfly linkage. Only one of the secondary instant centers needs to be located with the proposed technique; the remaining instant centers can be located from the Aronhold-Kennedy theorem. An important step in the graphical method is to regard the double butterfly linkage as two six-bar linkages. This is accomplished by replacing the ternary link connected to ground by two binary links, removing the pin which connects the two coupler links, and attaching a slider to each coupler link at the coupler pin. A key concept is to instantaneously freeze the aforementioned binary links and regard each six-bar linkage as a four-bar linkage. The paper shows how these ideas can be related to locate the absolute instant centers for the two coupler links of this eight-bar linkage.Copyright © 2002 by ASME
Emission of spin waves by a magnetic multilayer traversed by a current.

The interaction between spin waves and itinerant electrons is considerably enhanced in the vicinity of an interface between normal and ferromagnetic layers in metallic thin films. This leads to a local increase of the Gilbert damping parameter which characterizes spin dynamics. When a dc current crosses this interface, stimulated emission of spin waves is predicted to take place. Beyond a certain critical current density, the spin damping becomes negative; a spontaneous precession of the magnetization is predicted to arise. This is the magnetic analog of the injection laser. An extra dc voltage appears across the interface, given by an expression similar to that for the Josephson voltage across a superconducting junction. \textcopyright{} 1996 The American Physical Society.
Intraoperative Conversion From Partial to Radical Nephrectomy at a Single Institution From 2003 to 2008

Purpose: Little information exists on conversion from partial to radical nephrectomy. We assessed the intraoperative reasons and predictive factors for conversion in a contemporary series of patients undergoing partial nephrectomy.Materials and Methods: We identified all patients at our institution who underwent open or laparoscopic partial nephrectomy with conversion to radical nephrectomy between 2003 and 2008. Renal function was assessed by the glomerular filtration rate using the modification of diet in renal disease equation. We used logistic regression analysis to determine whether tumor site, tumor size, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, age or gender was associated with the conversion risk.Results: The rate of conversion to radical nephrectomy was 6% (61 of 1,029 patients). In the open partial nephrectomy group 59 of 865 cases (7%, 95% CI 5–9) and in the laparoscopic partial nephrectomy group 2 of 164 (1.2%, 95% CI 0.01–4) were converted. The most common reasons for con...
EFFECTS OF NEMATIC POLYMER LIQUID CRYSTAL ON CRYSTALLIZATION AND STRUCTURE OF PET/VECTRA BLENDS

We investigate the effects of a nematic liquid crystalline polymer, Vectra A, on the structure and properties of its blends with a semicrystalline polymer, poly(ethylene terephthalate),PET. PET/Vectra blend composition ranged from 100/0 to 60/40. Real-time, in situ studies ofisothermal and non-isothermal melt crystallizations of these blends were conducted usingsimultaneous wide and small angle X-ray scattering (WAXS and SAXS), differentialscanning calorimetry (DSC), and quantitative polarizing optical microscopy. All techniquesconfirm that the addition of Vectra nematic liquid crystal delays the onset of crystallization,and affects the degree of crystallinity and structural parameters such as Bragg long period,lamellar thickness and linear stack crystallinity. SAXS results indicate that some of theVectra component penetrates into the interlamellar regions of the crystal stacks. Vectrainterrupts the entangled polymer network making it more difficult for lamellar crystals tonucleate. Slower nucleation and growth result in increased perfection of the PET crystalsgrown isothermally, but reduces the crystallization temperature of PET crystals grownnon-isothermally causing these crystals to be less perfect.
Origin and effect of phototransduction noise in primate cone photoreceptors

The origin and functional importance of noise in mammalian cones is poorly understood. Here, the authors find that channel noise and fluctuations in cGMP dominate cone noise, that adaptation in cones affects signal and noise differently, and that cones generate less noise than previously thought. These results help reconcile cone noise and behavioral sensitivity.
3539 Photodynamic therapy for ablation of esophageal high grade dysplasia and superficial cancer.

BACKGROUND: High-grade dysplasia (HGD) and T1 superficial esophageal carcinoma (SEC) is relatively uncommon. However, Barrett s epithelium (BE) surveillance and widespread use of upper endoscopy have increased their recognition. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has emerged as a new modality to ablate superficial neoplastic tissue including SEC in patients who decline surgery or are not surgical candidates. PATIENTS: Twenty-five patients (18M) with HGD (11 patients) and SEC (14 patients) were treated with PDT. Mean age was 67 (range 40-86), 24 were white and one was black. There were two squamous HGD. Mean length of BE was 5 cm. All patients either refused or were not candidates for surgical resection. METHODS: Photofrin® (porfimer sodium) was used. Light was delivered by a 1, 2.5 or 5 cm diffuser. Light dose was 175-200 J/cm for the HGD and 250-300 J/cm for the SEC. Argon plasma coagulation (APC) was used to ablate the residual BE during follow up period. Patients were maintained on proton pump inhibitors and were followed for 3-19 months (mean 12) with endoscopy and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS). Three patients (12%) had two PDT procedures. RESULTS: Endoscopic BE ablation was achieved in all patients (100%) using PDT + APC. Only three patients (3/25, 12%), two with SEC and one HGD developed recurrence. The first showed early recurrence and underwent surgical resection. The second patient had residual cancer and is scheduled for repeat PDT. The third patient had a positive celiac lymph node involvement at one-year EUS follow up and underwent chemoradiation therapy. Stricture requiring multiple dilations developed in five patients (5/25, 20%). CONCLUSION: PDT+ APC along with gastric acid control provides an effective endoscopic therapy to eliminate HGD and SEC. SUMMARY: 1- PDT is effective in ablation of HGD+ SEC with minimal morbidity and no mortality. 2-long term data is needed. 3- Routine post PDT EUS may detect early lymph node metastasis.
Designing control systems with entity-life modeling

Abstract This article proposes entity-life modeling as a way to design concurrent control system software. Multiple threads of control in the software are modeled on threads of events in the problem environment, and software objects are modeled on objects in the problem. The threads of events can often be seen as the lives of entities that compete for access to shared resources. This situation is directly captured in the software by means of threads of control competing for exclusive access to objects. Entity-life modeling is illustrated by means of a flexible manufacturing system designed in Ada.
Application of a boundary integral equation to prediction of freezing fronts in soil

Abstract A boundary integral equation formulation based on the complex Cauchy integral theorem is applied to two-dimensional soil-water phase change problems encountered in algid soils. The model assumes that potential theory applies in the estimation of heat flux along a freezing front of differential thickness and that quasi-steady-state temperatures occur along the problem domain boundary. Application of the boundary integral formulation to two-dimensional problems results in predicted locations of the freezing front which are highly accurate. Although the proposed formulation is based on the Cauchy integral theorem, similar models may be developed based on other forms of integration equation methods.
Computer model for cryosurgery of the prostate.

The objective of this study was to devise an interactive tool to assist in cryoablation therapy through computer modeling, simulation, and visualization. CryoSim, a software package, accepts a set of acquired and processed three-dimensional ultrasound images, then models heat diffusion (formation of the iceball) based on numerical approximation of the heat equation and knowledge of the thermal properties of the underlying tissues. Results of cryoexperiments were found to be significantly similar to those generated by CryoSim. Therefore, CryoSim provides a viable technique for predicting the outcome of cryosurgery, and establishes a platform for future automation of cryosurgery.
Format and protocol language (FAPL)

Abstract The Format and Protocol Language (FAPL) is used in the formal definition of Systems Network Architecture (SNA). FAPL is a high-level programming language in which the SNA meta-implementation is written. This meta-implementation is a generalised example (or reference) implementation of an SNA node, and serves as a formal definition of SNA. This paper describes FAPL, concentrating on details of the language rather than how the language has been implemented and used. The main elements of the language are described, and examples of their use are given. Particular emphasis is given to those features of FAPL (such as mappable/nonmappable data, finite-state machines, list processing and concurrency) that distinguish it from other languages and make it suitable for use in producing a high-quality SNA meta-implementation. Comparisons are made between FAPL and other programming languages. The background to the creation and evolution of FAPL is described. Prospects for the future of FAPL are discussed.
Methylation of CpG-island-containing genes in human sperm, fetal and adult tissues.

Abstract The methylation of three human genes containing CpG islands and a CpG-depleted gene were measured in sperm, fetal and adult tissues. The c-Ha-ras was methylated extensively in the 3′ region in sperm with a methylation-free region extending from the promoter to the third exon. The extent of methylation in the 3′ region decreased in fetal cells, however, de novo methylation of sites closer to the island and within exon 1 were apparent. These sites were more completely methylated in adult lymphocytes and kidney. Essentially similar results were obtained with the CpG-island-containing genes, c-myc and HPRT (encoding hypoxanthine phosphoribosyl transferase), which showed that unmethylated sites near the CpG islands in sperm became methylated in fetal and adult cells. The variations in methylation seen in the non-island regions of the c-Ha-ras gene were mirrored in the insulin-encoding gene which does not contain a CpG island. The results show similar variations in methylation of non-island regions of DNA which occur independent of expression, and show that regions of extensive methylation in sperm may move closer to CpG island inn fetal and adult somatic cells.
Coping styles of alcohol-dependent individuals: Comparison with depressed patients and controls

The profile of coping mechanisms in a sample of 164 subjects (60 alcohol-dependent individuals, 47 depressed patients, 57 controls) was investigated. Data were collected over the period January-December 2004, at the Eginition Psychiatric Hospital of the Athens University Medical School in Athens, capital of Greece. The Albert Einstein College of Medicine Coping Styles Questionnaire (AECOM-CSQ; Plutchik & Conte, 1989), and the Hamilton Depression and Anxiety Rating Scales (Hamilton, 1959, 1960) were used for the assessment. Post hoc analysis of variance for comparisons between groups and logistic regressions using coping styles as predictor variables for group classification were used for data analysis. The main findings were that alcohol-dependent individuals could be distinguished from either depressed or control subjects on the ground of their coping mechanisms with stress, and that men and women use different patterns of psychological adaptation. More specifically, group classification in terms of specific coping styles could be predicted with an overall accuracy of more than 84%; in men, classification related to the coping mechanism of substitution, and in women to blame, reversal, and substitution. These findings may have implications for individually tailored psychotherapeutic interventions in alcohol-dependent individuals.
The effect of diazoxide and chlorothiazide on glucose uptake in vitro.

Abstract The glucose uptake of rat hemidiaphragms and epididymal fat pads has been measured in the presence of diazoxide and chlorothiazide. The combination of these compounds consistently reduced the basal glucose uptake of both tissues. The insulin responsiveness of the tissues was apparently unchanged by these benzothiazides. Neither tolbutamide in vitro nor a high KCl incubation medium reversed the effect of these compounds on basal glucose uptake. It is concluded that at least a part of the hyperglycemia induced by diazoxide and chlorothiazide is the result of impaired glucose uptake by peripheral tissues.
Angular dependence of vortex-annihilation fields in asymmetric cobalt dots

Shape asymmetries in nominally circular nanomagnets provide a potential means for vortex chirality control. However, in realistic arrays their effects are challenging to probe since asymmetric magnetization reversal processes are often averaged to include distributions over all angles. Here we investigate how shape asymmetry influences the vortex reversal in arrays of submicron edge-cut Co dots. We find that the vortices can be manipulated to annihilate at particular sites under different field orientations and cycle sequences. The vortex-annihilation field and degree of chirality control depend sensitively on the angular position of the applied field relative to the flat edge of the dots. For small angles, the major loop annihilation field is significantly larger than that found from the half loop and the vortex chirality can be well controlled. At intermediate angles the chirality control is lost and an interesting crossover in the annihilation field is found: the half loop actually extrudes outside of the major loop, exhibiting a larger vortex-annihilation field. At large angles the annihilation fields along major and half loops become degenerate.
Vector fermion-portal dark matter: Direct detection and Galactic Center gamma-ray excess

We investigate a neutral gauge boson ${X}_{\ensuremath{\mu}}$ that originates from a hidden $U(1)$ extension of the standard model as the particle dark matter candidate. Vector dark matter interacts with the standard model fermions through heavy fermion mediators. The interactions give rise to a $t$-channel annihilation cross section in the $XX\ensuremath{\rightarrow}f\overline{f}$ process, which dominates the thermal relic abundance during thermal freeze-out and produces measurable gamma-ray flux in the galactic halo. For a light vector dark matter, if it predominantly couples to the third-generation fermions, this model could explain the excess of gamma rays from the Galactic Center. We show that vector dark matter with a mass of $\ensuremath{\sim}20--40\text{ }\text{ }\mathrm{GeV}$ and which annihilates into the $b\overline{b}$ and $\ensuremath{\tau}\overline{\ensuremath{\tau}}$ final states provides an excellent description of the observed gamma-ray excess. The parameter space aimed at explaining the gamma-ray excess could also provide the correct thermal relic density and is compatible with the constraints from electroweak precision data, Higgs invisible decay, and collider searches. We show the dark matter couplings to the nucleon from the fermion portal interactions are loop suppressed, and only contribute to the spin-dependent cross section. Therefore vector dark matter could easily escape the stringent constraints from the direct-detection experiments.
A QUADRATIC PROGRAMMING APPROACH TO THE DESIGN OF ACTIVE–PASSIVE VIBRATION ISOLATION SYSTEMS

Abstract A quadratic programming algorithm is presented for studying the design tradeoffs of active–passive vibration isolation systems. The novelty of the technique is that the optimal control problem is posed as a quadratic optimization with linear constraints. The quadratic cost function represents the mean square response of the payload acceleration and isolator stroke, and the linear constraints represent asymptotic tracking requirements and peak response constraints. Posing the problem as a quadratic optimization guarantees that a global optimal solution can be found if one exists, and the existence of an optimal solution guarantees that the vibration isolation system satisfies the specified design constraints. The utility of the technique is demonstrated on a comparison of passive vibration isolation and active–passive vibration isolation utilizing relative displacement feedback.
The Transfer of Expedition Behavior Skills from the National Outdoor Leadership School to Life Post-Course

Empirical research in adventure education programs has determined that students may receive a number of potential benefits from participating in adventure programming, from an increase in self-efficacy to enhanced leadership ability to improved physical fitness (Hattie, Marsh, Neill, and Richards, 1997). Further, skills learned in adventure programs are thought to transfer to life post-course (Gass, 1999; Sibthorp, 2003), but significantly fewer studies have examined the transfer of such outcomes. This study sought to explore the transfer of expedition behavior skills learned during a 14-day adventure course with the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS). Expedition behavior (EB) is a term coined by Paul Petzoldt and used in many adventure education programs. Petzoldt, the founder of NOLS, explains â€œGood expedition behavior is an awareness of the relationshipsâ€¦which exist in the out-of-doors plus the motivation and character to be as concerned for others as one is for oneselfâ€ (Petzoldt, 1984, p. 168). For this study, EB is described as a behavior that is performed for the primary benefit of another person during a wilderness expedition. In addition, expedition behavior may be related to the psychosocial construct of prosocial behavior (e.g., Carlo & Randall, 2002). Commonly, expedition behaviors are described as a component of leadership, an essential component of working as a team, or as a means to encourage positive group dynamics (Gookin, 2006). NOLS courses feature six learning outcomes: leadership, outdoor skills, judgment and decision-making, communication, environmental awareness, and expedition-behavior. Prior research at NOLS has examined these six learning outcomes (Sibthorp, Paisley, & Gookin, 2007), specific outcomes such as self-efficacy (Propst & Koesler, 1997), transfer of environmental ethics (Hammitt et al., 1996), how student outcomes are learned (Paisley, Furman, Sibthorp & Gookin, 2008), and other outcomes of adventureexperiences.
Glomerular filtration during furosemide diuresis in the dog

Simultaneous clearance and micropuncture experiments were performed in pentobarbital-anesthetized dogs to determine the effect of furosemide (F; 5 mg/kg) on some of the determinants of GFR during replacement of urine losses. Glomerular capillary pressure (PG) was estimated from stop flow pressure (SFP) plus systemic colloid osmotic pressure (pi alpha). Because renal vasodilation during F administration occurs more often when blood pressure is elevated, two groups of dogs were studied. At endogenous renal perfusion pressure (RPP) of 130 mm Hg, one group responded to F with a 28% increase in renal blood flow (RBF). PG rose (a rise of 18 mm Hg) in proportion to the rise in proximal tubule pressure (PT) (a rise of 20 mm Hg). Thus, the difference in pressures (PG - PT) was unchanged, as was GFR. The second group had RPP lowered by renal artery constriction to a point near the lower limit of autoregulation (104 mm Hg). These dogs responded to F with no increase in RBF; PG was lower and remained constant during F, PT, however, increased (a rise of 10 mm Hg). The difference in pressures (delta P) decreased by 30%, and GFR decreased by 40%. Single nephron glomerular filtration rate (SNGFR) also decreased, and estimated Kf, the ultrafiltration coefficient, actually rose slightly. The major reason for the fall in GFR and SNGFR was due to a decrease in delta P rather than a decrease in Kf. The decrease in delta P can be attributed to failure of the renal vasculature to dilate because PG and RBF remained constant. It is likely that these events will be observed less often at hypertensive BP than at normal BP where renal vascular resistence is already close to a minimum value.
Intraoral psoriasis associated with widespread dermal psoriasis.

Abstract Psoriatic lesions involving the attached gingiva and palatal mucosa in a 43-year-old woman with widespread dermal psoriasis are reported, along with a review of the literature concerning intraoral psoriasis.
Energy and performance driven circuit design for emerging phase-change memory

Phase-Change Random Access Memory (PRAM) has become one of the most promising emerging memory technologies, due to its attractive features such as high density, fast access, non-volatility, and good scalability. The physical characteristics of a PRAM cell mainly depend on the material characteristic and the fabrication process. However, the access device and the operating voltage have significant impact on the PRAM performance, energy dissipation, and lifetime. In this paper, we study the design constraints for PRAM memory array, and propose design optimizations of the access device and the circuit operational voltage. The important features of PRAM memory, such as power consumption, read/write stability, speed, as well as lifetime are all considered as the constrained conditions in the proposed optimizations. Experimental results showed that the proposed methodology can provide a reliable design space for the access device and the operating voltage.
DIVERSIFIERS AT ELITE SCHOOLS

This article examines how a nonprofit organization prepares low-income students of diverse racial backgrounds to enter elite private high schools in the fall of the ninth grade. Combining ethnographic fieldwork completed during the program with follow-up interviews with ten students after their first semester at boarding school, this article addresses how students interact with and integrate into wealthy, predominantly White schools in an attempt to gain social mobility. Looking at how students interpret their surroundings, the article argues that students are trained to view themselves as “diversifiers” in order to successfully adapt to their new schools. In this role, students perceive themselves as especially serious and motivated students, and their elite peers as naive, and find satisfaction in teaching others how to interact with people from different class and racial backgrounds. The paper concludes by considering the ramifications of the diversifier concept on efforts to diversify elite institutions and proposes further possible research sites where the concept may be applicable.
Prion diseases--an evidence-based protocol for infection control.

ABSTRACT Prion diseases are fatal, infectious, neurodegenerative disorders with special implications for infection control in the OR. The causative agent is highly resistant to disinfection and sterilization processes and has been transmitted during health care interactions. It is important to use evidence gained through research and case reports to minimize risk of infection. This article describes an infection control protocol developed for identifying high-risk patients, providing perioperative care, decontaminating the OR, and protecting health care personnel. This protocol provides multidisciplinary team members with a guideline for preventing transmission of these fatal diseases. AORN J 69 (May 1999) 946–967.
Mental disorder and violence: is there a relationship beyond substance use?

A general consensus exists that severe mental illness (SMI) increases violence risk. However, a recent report claimed that SMI “alone was not statistically related to future violence in bivariate or multivariate analyses.” We reanalyze the data used to make this claim with a focus on causal relationships between SMI and violence, rather than the statistical prediction of violence. Data are from the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC), a two-wave study (N = 34,653: Wave 1: 2001–2003; Wave 2: 2004–2005). Indicators of mental disorder in the year prior to Wave 1 were used to examine violence between Waves 1 and 2. Those with SMI, irrespective of substance abuse status, were significantly more likely to be violent than those with no mental or substance use disorders. This finding held in both bivariate and multivariable models. Those with comorbid mental and substance use disorders had the highest risk of violence. Historical and current conditions were also associated with violence, including childhood abuse and neglect, household antisocial behavior, binge drinking and stressful life events. These results, in contrast to a recently published report, show that the NESARC data are consistent with the consensus view on mental disorder and violence: there is a statistically significant, yet modest relationship between SMI (within 12 months) and violence, and a stronger relationship between SMI with substance use disorder and violence. These results also highlight the importance of premorbid conditions, and other contemporaneous clinical factors, in violent behavior.
Metabolic and histologic investigation of the nature of nephrocalcinosis in children with hypophosphatemic rickets and in the Hyp mouse.

To investigate the biochemical nature of nephrocaicinosis in children with hypophosphatemic rickets treated with orally administered phosphate and vitamin D, we studied five such patients, aged 3.7 to 12.3 years, during treatment and again 3 days after it had been discontinued. Treatment was associated with significant increases in mean serum phosphate concentration and urine phosphate/creatinine ratio, from 0.71 to 1.03 mmol/L and from 3.61 to 9.42 mmol/mmol, respectively. Significant correlation was found between urine phosphate/creatinine and oxalate/creatinine ratios ( r =0.670; p p p p
Fast maximum likelihood estimation of mutation rates using a birth-death process.

Since fluctuation analysis was first introduced by Luria and Delbruck in 1943, it has been widely used to make inference about spontaneous mutation rates in cultured cells. Under certain model assumptions, the probability distribution of the number of mutants that appear in a fluctuation experiment can be derived explicitly, which provides the basis of mutation rate estimation. It has been shown that, among various existing estimators, the maximum likelihood estimator usually demonstrates some desirable properties such as consistency and lower mean squared error. However, its application in real experimental data is often hindered by slow computation of likelihood due to the recursive form of the mutant-count distribution. We propose a fast maximum likelihood estimator of mutation rates, MLE-BD, based on a birth-death process model with non-differential growth assumption. Simulation studies demonstrate that, compared with the conventional maximum likelihood estimator derived from the Luria-Delbruck distribution, MLE-BD achieves substantial improvement on computational speed and is applicable to arbitrarily large number of mutants. In addition, it still retains good accuracy on point estimation.
Effector localization and transfer of reactive inhibition.

An experimental test was made of Hull’s (1943) notions that reactive inhibition (IR) is effector-specific and that it has primary negative motivational properties. Four groups of 20 subjects (10 males and 10 females in each) executed two segments of continuous right-hand practice on a mirror-tracking task. The two segments were separated either by 0 min rest, 5 min rest, 5 min continuous right-hand practice on rotary pursuit, or 5 min continuous left-hand practice on rotary pursuit. Effects of interpolated conditions were measured in terms of main-task reminiscence and initial post-treatment performance. When interpolated practice was conducted with the right hand, reminiscence and post-treatment performance were significantly depressed relative to the rest effect, but not when interpolated practice was conducted with the left hand. Thus, Hull’s views were supported, while competing views, such as the task specificity concept of IR and the consolidation theory of reminiscence, were impugned.
Improving student writing through multiple peer feedback

This paper describes the design of a study to examine the effects of various types of feedback and revision on student writing quality improvement in a first-year engineering course. We apply the previous work of Cho and MacArthur that showed that multiple peer feedback is superior to single peer and single expert feedback in improving student writing quality. We extend their work to examine the effects of in-class instruction on giving peer feedback, and also examine the effect of giving (rather than receiving) feedback on student revisions. Preliminary findings from this study will be presented at the conference.
Forced waves in the martian atmosphere from MGS TES nadir data

Abstract We have analyzed the temperature retrievals from Mars Global Surveyor (MGS) Thermal Emission Spectrometer (TES) nadir spectra to yield latitude-height resolved maps of various atmospheric forced wave modes as a function of season for a full Mars year. Among the isolated wave modes is the zonal mean, time mean temperature, which we used to derive zonal mean zonal winds and stationary wave quasi-geostrophic indices of refraction, diagnostic of their propagation. The diurnal Kelvin wave was isolated in the data, with results roughly consistent with models (Wilson and Hamilton, 1996 , J. Atmos. Sci. 33, 1290–1326). The s = 1 and s = 2 stationary waves were found to have significant amplitude in ducts extending up the winter polar jets, while the s = 3 stationary wave was found to be confined to near the surface. The s = 1 stationary wave was found to have little phase tilt with height during northern winter, but significant westward phase tilt with height in the southern winter. This indicates that the wave carries heat poleward, slightly more than that found in Barnes et al. (1996 ; J. Geophys. Res. 101, 12,753–12,776). The s = 1 stationary wave is likely the dominant mechanism for eddy meridional heat transport for the southern winter. We noted that the phase of the s = 2 stationary wave is nearly constant with time, but that the s = 1 stationary wave moved 90° of longitude from fall to winter and back in spring in the North. While interannual variability is not yet addressed, overall, these results provide the first comprehensive benchmark for forced waves in Mars’s atmosphere against which future atmospheric models of Mars can be compared.
Variable phase coupling coefficient for leaky waves on spheres and cylinders from resonance scattering theory

Abstract The coupling coefficient Gl is approximated for the description of the launching and detachment of leaky guided waves on spheres and circular cylinders. The approach is based on a comparison of ray and resonance scattering theory formulations which includes effects on the phase of Gl of higher order Debye approximations of Hankel functions and derivatives. The comparison also allows for a transition in the RST background between soft and rigid behavior as discussed for spherical shells by Gaunaurd and Werby [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 90, 2536–2550 (1991)]. The expression for how ¦G l ¦ depends on leaky wave parameters and the high-frequency limit of the phase for a rigid background are as previously described. The formulation is not restricted to thin elastic shells, however, the radiation damping is assumed to be weak. Though the phase of Gl depends on a separately determined function that describes the transition in RST background, the formulation gives insight into the dependence of igGl(on leaky wave parameters for situations where the residues from the Watson transformation are difficult to analyze. When the thickness-to-radius ratio h a is small, an O( 1 kh ) correction to the phase found by others is recovered.
Preoperative shock determines outcome for acute type A aortic dissection.

Abstract Background Acute type A aortic dissection is a life-threatening catastrophe. Surgical results have not improved. Methods The charts of all 70 patients surgically treated for acute type A primary aortic dissection during the period of January 1988 through April 2001 were reviewed. Results Average age was 59 ± 2 years. Comorbidities included hypertension (66%), coronary artery disease (17%), and Marfan's syndrome (11%). At presentation, 23% were in shock, 17% had neurologic dysfunction, and 36% had coronary ischemia. The aortic valve was preserved in 55. Distal aortic anastomosis was performed under aortic cross-clamp ("closed") in 32 and "open" under circulatory arrest in 38 patients. Operative mortality was 18.6% (13 of 70 patients). Patients in shock had an operative mortality of 50% compared with stable patients of 9% ( p = 0.0002). Mortality was similar regardless of technique. Univariate analysis revealed preoperative shock ( p = 0.0002), tamponade ( p = 0.003), and neurologic deficit ( p = 0.02) to be associated with mortality. Multivariate analysis revealed hemodynamic stability (odds ratio=0.10, p = 0.04) and outside transfer (odds ratio=0.12, p = 0.03) to be negative predictors of mortality. Of 57 survivors, follow-up was 93% complete for an average of 46 ± 6 months. The overall late reoperation rate was 24.6% (14 of 57 patients) at 50.3 ± 12.3 months. Twelve patients (21%) underwent future aortic aneurysmal repair. No difference in reoperation rate was seen comparing "closed" (26%) with "open" (18%; p = 0.46). Of 42 preserved native valves, only 3 (7.1%) needed future valve replacement. Conclusions In our experience, operative mortality was determined by preoperative hemodynamic instability. Technique did not impact survival or late reoperation. Early diagnosis and repair is critical to improving survival.
Numerical simulation of oxidation effects in the laser cutting process

A numerical model is developed for the process of oxygenassisted laser cutting of mild steel. Coupled oxygen concentration and energy balance equations are solved by a control-volume-based computational scheme, while the velocity field is obtained by analytical boundary theory. The enthalpy method is adopted to trace the free boundary of the phase change and thus determine the molten-layer thickness. The steady-state simulation results include the temperature and oxygen concentration profiles at the cut front, the effects of impurity gas on the cutting speed, reaction energy, conduction loss and heat affected zone. The striation phenomenon is studied and the temperature fluctuation range versus cutting speed and oxygen pressure shows similar trends to the experimental results.
A laser Doppler instrument for in vivo measurements of blood flow in single renal arterioles

A laser Doppler instrument has been developed to measure the blood flow in single vessels for the study of the dynamics of local control mechanisms. A commercial blood perfusion monitor, designed to measure blood perfusion in a vascular field containing many randomly oriented blood vessels, was modified to measure blood flow in a single arteriole. In vitro tests of the instrument revealed that the relationship between blood flow and Doppler shift was not a simple linear function. Causes of nonlinearity are revealed, and it is shown that proper use of the device avoids the problem. The device was applied to efferent arterioles that are visible on the surface of the rat kidney, and changes in the kidney blood flow were induced and measured. An oscillation in the tubular pressure at 0.035 Hz, that was previously described and attributed to a local feedback mechanism, was found in the arteriolar blood flow. The instrument is easy to use and provides temporal resolution. >
Energetically stable discretizations for charge transport and electrokinetic models

A finite element discretization using a method of lines approached is proposed for approximately solving the Poisson-Nernst-Planck (PNP) equations. This discretization scheme enforces positivity of the computed solutions, corresponding to particle density functions, and a discrete energy estimate is established that takes the same form as the energy law for the continuous PNP system. This energy estimate is extended to finite element solutions to an electrokinetic model, which couples the PNP system with the incompressible Navier-Stokes equations. Numerical experiments are conducted to validate convergence of the computed solution and verify the discrete energy estimate.
Phenotypic integration and the potential for independent color evolution in a polymorphic spring ephemeral

The genetic architecture of the total phenotype may substantially constrain or enhance the evolution of floral color within populations in response to multiple selection pressures. Using Claytonia virginica I previously identified opposing selection on floral color generated through herbivores and pathogens. Here I ask whether the evolution of floral color in this system is constrained or unconstrained by its phenotypic integration with floral and vegetative traits. Morphological, physiological, and pollen traits were measured on over 400 plants in the field and greenhouse, and these data were used to test whether floral-color morphs differed with respect to other traits and whether the among-trait correlation structure differed across the color morphs. The color morphs varied with respect to most measured traits; however, the pattern of variation was not consistent among them, and there was little evidence of trade-offs with floral color. A common principal components analysis revealed that the pattern of phenotypic integration substantially differed among the color morphs. Combined, these results suggest that floral-color evolution may proceed relatively unconstrained by associations with other traits in this system. The absence of a strong constraint in combination with known fluctuating selective pressures may help to explain observed within- and among-population color variation in this species.
Effects of toluene inhalation on behavior and expired carbon dioxide in macaque monkeys

Cynomolgus macaque monkeys received head-only exposure to 0, 100, 200, 500, 1000, 2000, 3000, and 4500 ppm toluene for 50 min while simultaneously tested for delayed matching-to-sample behavior, a test of cognitive functions. Response time increased and accuracy of matching decreased at 2000 ppm or more of toluene, indicating an attentional deficit but not specific memory effects. Behavioral indices exhibited monotonic concentration-related changes. Expired carbon dioxide (CO2), the most sensitive index, displayed an inverted U-shaped concentration-effect curve, which increased at 100 ppm (the TLV) and decreased at 4500 ppm toluene. Changes in expired CO2 provide new evidence of physiological changes at very low levels of toluene. These changes may indicate combined behavioral, respiratory, sensory, and metabolic effects. No behavioral measure exhibited either cumulative effects or tolerance to 4500 ppm during two 3-day exposures. However, both response time and expired CO2 exhibited an acute, within-session tolerance. The results indicate that brief inhalation exposure to toluene impairs cognitive and motor abilities at concentrations below those causing overt signs, such as ataxia and intention tremoring.
Effect of verification bias on positive and negative predictive values

The pairing of sensitivity and specificity expresses the efficacy of a test, and positive and negative predictive values measure the accuracy of a diagnostic test when applied to a particular patient. To calculate these measures, one has to know the true disease status of each patient. In practice, however, some patients may not be selected for verification of disease status. It has been shown that the estimated sensitivity and specificity may be biased if one includes in the study sample only the patients with verified disease statuses. This paper concerns the properties of the estimators of positive and negative predictive values using only patients with verified disease statuses. First, I show that these estimators are unbiased and provide consistent estimators for the variances of these estimators under the assumption that the probability of selecting a patient for a disease verification procedure does not depend directly on the true disease status of the patient. Then, I use the ML method to study the sensitivity of the naive estimators to the departure from the conditional independence assumption.
Application of direct renin inhibition to chronic kidney disease.

Purpose Chronic kidney disease has serious implications with a high risk for progressive loss of renal function, increased cardiovascular events as well as a substantial financial burden. The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) is activated in chronic kidney disease, especially in diabetes and hypertension, which are the leading causes of chronic kidney disease. Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) decrease the rate of progression of diabetic and non-diabetic nephropathy and are recommended therapy for chronic kidney disease. Methods Key clinical trials supporting the use of ACE inhibitors and ARBs in chronic kidney disease are discussed. Recent developments in our understanding of RAAS biology and the use of direct renin inhibition are reviewed in the context of their potential impact on the prevention and management of chronic kidney disease. Results Despite the clinical success of ACE inhibitors and ARBs the rates of mortality and progression to renal failure remain high in these patient populations. ACE inhibitor or ARB monotherapy, in doses commonly used in clinical practice does not result in complete suppression of the RAAS. Aliskiren, a direct renin inhibitor, offers a novel approach to inhibit the RAAS in chronic kidney disease. Conclusions High dose ARB therapy or combination therapies with ACE inhibitors and ARBs have shown beneficial effects on surrogate markers of chronic kidney disease. Early data based on urinary protein excretion rates as a surrogate marker for renal function suggest a possibly novel role for aliskiren alone or in combination with ARBs in chronic kidney disease.
Arthroscopic Articular Reconstruction of Capitellar Osteochondral Defects

Background:Articular reconstruction is recommended for some unstable capitellar osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) lesions. Capitellar osteochondral autograft transplantation (OAT) through an open approach for optimal visualization and perpendicular graft implantation has been advocated. However, arthroscopic capitellar OAT may achieve the same treatment goals with decreased morbidity and ability to treat the entire joint for pathologic changes.Purpose/Hypothesis:The purpose of this study was to assess the ability to resurface the capitellum arthroscopically. The hypothesis was that arthroscopy allows sufficient access to facilitate perpendicular graft placement in most clinically significant capitellar OCD lesions.Study Design:Descriptive laboratory study.Methods:Arthroscopy was performed on 12 fresh-frozen cadaveric elbows. Of the tunnels created, 21 were used in final analysis. A 6-mm osteochondral transplantation bone graft harvester was used to generate perpendicular recipient sites in the capitellar ar...
Accurate Discovery of Valid Convoys from Moving Object Trajectories

Given a set of moving object trajectories, it is of interest to find a group of objects, called a convoy, that are spatially density-connected for a certain duration of time. However, existing convoy discovery algorithms have a critical problem of accuracy; they tend to both miss larger convoys and retrieve invalid ones where the density-connectivity among the objects is not completely satisfied. We propose a new valid convoy discovery algorithm, called VCoDA, for the accurate discovery of valid convoys from moving object trajectories. Specifically, VCoDA first retrieves all partially connected convoys while guaranteeing no false dismissal of any valid convoys and then validates their density-connectivity to eventually obtain a complete set of valid convoys. Our extensive experiments on three real-world datasets demonstrate the effectiveness of our technique; VCoDA improves the precision by a factor of 3 on average and the recall by up to 2 orders of magnitude as compared to an existing method.
Two-photon excitation and emission in quantum dots coupled to photonic crystal nanocavities

We present calculations and proposals for two-photon transition rate enhancement in quantum dots coupled to photonic crystal cavities. Cavity-assisted two-photon absorption and emission are efficient methods to coherently excite quantum dots and generate indistinguishable single photons.
THE “BIG FIVE” PERSONALITY FACTORS IN THE IPI AND MMPI: PREDICTORS OF POLICE PERFORMANCE

Rational and empirical linkages were formed between the “Big Five” personality factors and two personality inventories: the Inwald Personality Inventory (IPI), which is a personality inventory designed especially for use in the selection of corrections officers, and the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI). A criterion-related validation of the study was then conducted to assess the validity of these two measures of the Big Five in predicting various measures of police performance. Results indicated that while both inventories provided adequate measures of Neuroticism, Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Conscientiousness, neither inventory consistently contributed incremental validity over the Civil Service exam.
Immune, endocrine, and behavioral precursors to breast cancer recurrence: a case-control analysis

Background A period of tumor growth precedes the clinical detection of breast cancer recurrence. We explore immune, endocrine, and behavioral parameters during this period.
Routing Performance in CDMA-based Sensor Networks for Different Energy Metrics

In this paper, we study the performance of a routing algorithm in a CDMA-based sensor network with respect to three energy metrics. These commonly used metrics are expected lifetime, multiple access interference, and queue length ? all of which provide insight into how energy is depleted when nodes participate in packet forwarding. We formalize these metrics and show how the delay, throughput, and node life time are affected when routing is performed with a specific objective. Through ns-2 based simulation experiments, we show the tradeoffs between network performance and the different routing strategies adopted. These strategies can also be combined in order to achieve a desired system performance.
Nuclear Ejection — One Side at a Time

Examination of the structures of extragalactic radio sources shows a distinct asymmetry in addition to the more general symmetries which are well known. The most likely explanation for the observed asymmetries is that ejection from the active nucleus occurs in only one direction at a time. This direction then switches back and forth to form the large scale double structures. Implications of this picture for the nuclear engine and the radio source environment are discussed.