cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Are We There Yet? Distance to Care and Relative Supply Among Pediatric Medical Subspecialties

OBJECTIVE. The objective of this study was to describe geographic proximity, quantify variation in supply, and estimate pediatric population increments that are needed to support providers across pediatric subspecialties. METHODS. Data from the American Board of Pediatrics and the Claritas Pop-Facts Database were used to calculate subspecialty-specific straight-line distances between each zip code and the nearest board-certified subspecialist. These data sources also were used to estimate the percentage of hospital referral regions with providers and calculate physician-to-population ratios for each of 16 pediatric medical subspecialties. Coefficients of variation for the ratios were used to assess intraspecialty variation in supply across markets. Estimates of the pediatric population that is needed to support an initial or additional physician in a market were generated using subspecialty-specific ordered logit analyses. RESULTS. The population-weighted average distance to a subspecialist ranged from 15 miles for neonatology to 78 miles for pediatric sports medicine. For most pediatric subspecialties, more than two thirds of children live within 40 miles of a certified physician. For 7 of 16 of pediatric subspecialties, fewer than one half of hospital referral regions have a provider. Coefficients of variation vary across subspecialties and are lowest for neonatology at 76% and greatest for pediatric sports medicine at 287%. Pediatric population thresholds likewise vary with a tendency toward lower thresholds for procedural specialties, such as cardiology and critical care medicine. CONCLUSIONS. The practice locations of pediatric subspecialists parallel the geographic distribution of children in the United States, yet many hospital referral regions lack pediatric subspecialists and coefficients of variation vary widely across subspecialties. These findings suggest that either the supply of pediatric subspecialists is inadequate, pediatric subspecialists are distributed inequitably, or the market for pediatric subspecialists is larger than the hospital referral regions. Furthermore, population thresholds for many cognitive pediatric subspecialties are high; the extent to which high thresholds reflect low disease prevalence versus other factors, such as inadequate reimbursement, is not established.
CRITICAL ISSUES FOR MAKING DROPLET MEASUREMENTS IN LIQUID OXYGEN/HYDROGEN COMBUSTING SPRAYS

The phase/Doppler interferometry technique is applied to make spatially-resolved measurements of liquid oxygen (LOX) drop size and drop velocity in a combusting oxygen/hydrogen spray flowfield produced by a swirl coaxial rocket injector. The experiment is performed in a single-element optically accessible rocket combustion chamber at elevated pressure and temperature conditions for an oxidizer to fuel mass flow ratio of 30. Using the present effort as an example, the challenges of obtaining and interpreting measurements in representative rocket combustion environments are discussed. Issues relating to the application of the drop measurement technique for interrogating high density, high flowrate rocket injector sprays are highlighted.
Planning for sustainability in China's urban development: Status and challenges for Dongtan eco-city project

With the rapid urbanization in China, the country faces significant challenges in sustainable urban development and actively explores novel ways to expand urban areas while conserving natural resources. Radical changes in city planning are being made to switch to sustainable development, with new cities being designed to be ecologically friendly guided by principles like carbon neutrality and self-sufficiency. This paper introduces the development of the Dongtan eco-city project on Chongming Island, Shanghai and describes how it addresses issues including energy, water, waste, transportation, ecosystem, and social and economic development in its design. The lessons and challenges of eco-city development based on the Dongtan experience are also discussed. If the vision of a zero-carbon emissions sustainable city is successfully realized, Dongtan will serve as a model for developing similar cities across China and the rest of the developing world. Currently, the development of this project is behind schedule and whether the eco-city plan will materialize or not is in question. Even though the project remains mostly on the drawing boards, the planning and preliminary development of Dongtan eco-city have generated significant enthusiasm for green buildings and influenced plans for other sustainable urban development projects in China.
Estimation of Demand Parameters under Consumer Budgeting: An Application to Argentina

This study assumes that consumer expenditures occur in a stepwise fashion in which income is fist allocated to budget categories and then to optimum quantities within each category. With this assumption, a model was developed to estimate the price and icome elasticities of demand of all items in one budget category—like food—and the cross-price elasticities of these items with all others. The approach permits one to specify the changes in expenditure levels on budget categories from cross-section information and the flexibility of money. The model was empirically applied to Argentine consumption data.
Intolerance of uncertainty and obsessive-compulsive symptom expression

Abstract Background and objectives Research suggests a relationship between intolerance of uncertainty (IU) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), though this has been limited to self-report measures of OCD symptoms. The current investigation examined the relationship between IU and multiple symptom domains of OCD using self-report and in vivo assessments of OC symptoms. Methods Five separate studies are presented in which undergraduate students ( N = 603) were administered a self-report measure of IU and tasks related to either ordering and arranging, checking, washing, contamination avoidance, or neutralization. Results Intolerance of uncertainty was found to be significantly related to each self-report measure of the OCD symptom domains ( p s in vivo tasks ( p s Limitations This study relied on an unselected sample and was correlational in design. Conclusions The current study demonstrates that IU is related to multiple OC symptom dimensions. Future experimental research is warranted to evaluate the causal role of IU in OCD.
Polymeric anodes for organic light-emitting diodes

Abstract Polymer light-emitting diodes based on PPV, for example MEH-PPV, are known to be susceptible to photo-oxidative degradation. The formation of the carbonyl species in the polymer results in quenching of the luminescence. In addition the oxidation process reduces the conjugation of the polymer, leading to lower charge carrier mobilities and consequently higher operating voltages. Previous in situ FTIR studies revealed that even in a dry inert atmosphere polymer oxidation occurs, and that ITO can act as the source of oxygen. In order to explore further the nature of the oxidation mechanism and to provide guidance for its elimination, we have studied the behavior of MEH-PPV LEDs prepared with conducting polymer anodes. When a layer of polyaniline is present between the ITO and the MEH-PPV the device characteristics improve dramatically: the injection voltage drops, the luminous efficiency increases and, most significantly, the rate of decay of the luminance decreases by up to two orders of magnitude. These data not only confirm that ITO is a source of oxygen, but also imply that the oxidation mechanism is due to direct interfacial reaction. We compare several different forms of polyaniline, with different dopants, as well as a derivative of a polythiophene.
Evaluating change in interagency collaboration of a state-level interagency education team: a social network approach within a utilization-focused framework

Improving collaboration among organizations is a goal of interagency educational teams, but collaboration is typically thought of as an ambiguous concept that cannot be quantified. To assess the collaborative strength of a state-level interagency team in a Midwestern state, team members completed the Levels of Collaboration Scale (Frey et al., American Journal of Evaluation 27(3):383, 2006) for three consecutive years. The team members then utilized the results of the social network analysis to support and sustain collaborative efforts. Findings revealed that the number of partnerships increased and the depth of collaboration expanded across the 3 years. Social network analysis results were utilized to develop collaboration strategies, thus influencing the expansion of the network across the 3-year period.
Design and analysis of IPM machine with bar wound fractional slot distributed winding for automotive traction application

The study of the fractional slot distributed winding (FSDW) IPM machine for automotive traction application is presented in this paper. First, the possibility of utilizing the bar wound winding for FSDW machine is investigated. It is found that machine which common factor fraction of SPP is 1/2, are feasible to utilize the bar wound winding. Based on the finding, two FSDW machines are designed and analyzed using FEA. The results are compared against the integral slot distributed winding (ISDW) machine in terms of electromagnetic and noise and vibration performance. The results are validated experimentally by the base ISDW machine.
Resection versus laparoscopic radiofrequency thermal ablation of solitary colorectal liver metastasis.

Purpose There is scant data in the literature regarding radiofrequency thermal ablation (RFA) versus resection of colorectal liver metastases. The aim of this study is to compare the clinical profile and survival of patients with solitary colorectal liver metastasis undergoing resection versus laparoscopic RFA.
Use of Stereophotogrammetry to Analyze the Development of Shear Bands in Sand

Experimental results are presented from plane-strain compression of a fine-grained, water-saturated loose sand. Together with local measurements of boundary stresses and deformations, systematic analysis of photographs of the deforming specimen allowed for measuring deformations and computing strain fields inside and outside the shear band. The principles, details, and accuracy of the procedure are described. The capabilities of stereophotogrammetry are illustrated through typical results obtained from undrained and drained tests. A gradual transition from homogeneous deformation to temporary modes of localized strain to a highly localized strain field is systematically observed. Prior to strain localization in the region where the final shear band eventually forms, the soil contracts more than the rest of the specimen. As soon as the final band is fully formed, the soil inside the band either remains at constant volume or dilates. The nonuniformity of volumetric response throughout the specimen in globally undrained conditions implies there is water flow within the specimen.
Head space gas chromatography with glass capillaries using an automatic electropneumatic dosing system

Head space GC using a special electropneumatic sampling system works well in combination with glass capillaries. Because a homogenous gas mixture is already present most problems inherent with inlet splitters are thus avoided. In cases where the high vapor pressure of the sample can cause problems with the pressure controlled sampling system, the use of narrow bore glass capillaries provides the necessary inlet pressure. The use of this powerful and convenient analytical tool for water pollution analysis, flavour analysis and the analysis of volatiles in crude oil samples is shown by examples.
Analysis of the Oligomeric Structure of the Motor Protein Prestin

Prestin, a member of the solute carrier family 26, is expressed in the basolateral membrane of outer hair cells. This protein provides the molecular basis for outer hair cell somatic electromotility, which is crucial for the frequency selectivity and sensitivity of mammalian hearing. It has long been known that there are abundantly expressed approximately 11-nM protein particles present in the basolateral membrane. These particles were hypothesized to be the motor proteins that drive electromotility. Because the calculated size of a prestin monomer is too small to form an approximately 11-nM particle, the possibility of prestin oligomerization was examined. We investigated possible quaternary structures of prestin by lithium dodecyl sulfate-PAGE, perfluoro-octanoate-PAGE, a membrane-based yeast two-hybrid system, and chemical cross-linking experiments. Prestin, obtained from different host or native cells, is resistant to dissociation by lithium dodecyl sulfate and behaves as a stable oligomer on lithium dodecyl sulfate-PAGE. In the membrane-based yeast two-hybrid system, homo-oligomeric interactions between prestin-bait/prestin-prey suggest that prestin molecules can associate with each other. Chemical cross-linking experiments, perfluoro-octanoate-PAGE/Western blot, and affinity purification experiments all indicate that prestin exists as a higher order oligomer, such as a tetramer, in prestin-expressing yeast, mammalian cell lines and native outer hair cells. Our data from experiments using hydrophobic and hydrophilic reducing reagents suggest that the prestin dimer is connected by a disulfide bond embedded in the prestin hydrophobic core. This stable dimer may act as the building block for producing the higher order oligomers that form the approximately 11-nM particles in the outer hair cell's basolateral membrane.
Josiah Wedgwood and the seventh dominion scheme

(1990). Josiah Wedgwood and the seventh dominion scheme. Studies in Zionism: Vol. 11, No. 2, pp. 141-155.
Paternity Establishment for Men’s Nonmarital Births

This paper uses the 2002 National Survey of Family Growth to examine paternity establishment among men’s nonmarital births. Using births as the unit of analysis, I find that paternity establishment for first births (n = 661) is linked to race/ethnicity and relationship status at birth, and these characteristics are associated differently with the timing and location of paternity establishment (in-hospital or at some later point). For higher-parity births (n = 429), paternity establishment for a particular birth is strongly related to prior paternity and fertility behaviors. Paternity is less likely to be established for a higher-parity birth if the father failed to establish paternity for at least one earlier birth, and third or higher-parity births are far more likely to have paternity established at a subsequent point than at the hospital.
Uranium and boron content of water by particle track etching

Abstract Track activation techniques make the measurement of the content of specific impurities in water particularly simple. By choosing detectors of the proper sensitivities, elements giving (n, f ) reactions such as uranium and plutonium and those giving (n, α) reactions such as boron and lithium can be determined.
Successful management of gelatinous transformation of the bone marrow in anorexia nervosa with hematopoietic growth factors

Serous atrophy or gelatinous transformation of the bone marrow (GMT), often seen with severe nutritional deprivation in Anorexia Nervosa (AN), is characterized by hypocellularity and patchy or diffuse replacement of the bone marrow with hyaluronic acid-like mucopolysaccharide material. Treatment with nutritional support alone is often temporary due to the relapsing nature of AN. We present the case of a patient with pancytopenia due to GMT who had multiple prior hospitalizations for infections and blood transfusions. Nutritional support was inadequate in restoring her bone marrow function. She was successfully treated with hematopoietic growth factors and achieved a sustained hematopoietic recovery. In addition, use of growth factors resulted in a 91% reduction in the cost of health care delivered to this patient.
Correlation energy of the two dimensional electron gas

The correlation energy of the two dimensional electron gas is calculated using the method of Singwi-Sjolander. Our results for the unpolarized case are in good agreement with prior results of Jonson and Ceperley. We also report results for the spin polarized case where prior good results were lacking.
Standard enthalpies of formation for europium, gadolinium, and lutetium oxychlorides, calculated from measured enthalpies of solution

Abstract The enthalpies of solution in 1.000 N HCl of Eu, Gd, and Lu oxychlorides (both powder and single crystal samples) were measured on the 50–1150 μg scale, and their standard enthalpies of formation at 298 K calculated. The lanthanide oxychlorides (LnOCl) were prepared from the corresponding sesquioxides by treatment with gaseous HCl. Single crystals were grown from a 1:10 (Eu, Gd) or 1:1 (Lu) mixture of sesquioxide-in-trichloride flux. Prior estimations of the standard enthalpies of formation for these three oxychlorides were made, based upon the thermodynamic systematics of LnCl 3 and LnOCl as a function of Ln(III) ionic radius. Standard formation enthalpies at 298 K determined in this work are: Δ f H 0 (EuOCl (cr) )=−903.5±3 kJ mol −1 ; Δ f H 0 (GdOCl (cr) )=−981.4±3 kJ mol −1 ; and Δ f H 0 (LuOCl (cr) )=−987.2±4 kJ mol −1 . These results are in accord with the estimations made. In addition, the standard enthalpy of formation of promethium oxychloride, Δ f H 0 (PmOCl (cr) ), which is unknown and difficult to obtain experimentally, was estimated on the basis of interpolation within the lanthanide systematics to be −997±4 kJ mol −1 .
Microcanonical simulation of nuclear disassembly

Abstract We formulate a model for the disassembly of a highly excited finite nuclear source into interacting nuclear fragments. Monte Carlo sampling of the exact microcanonical and canonical ensemble provides many-fragment configurations at the effective freeze-out stage. The effect of including the interaction between the fragments is significant and an elaboration of the model that allows for a nucleon vapor suggests the existence of a first-order phase transition.
The role of learning and stress in predator avoidance of hatchery-reared coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) juveniles

Abstract The possibility of conditioning hatchery-reared coho salmon ( Oncorhynchus kisutch ) juveniles to avoid predation, and the role of learning and stress in predator avoidance was investigated under controlled laboratory conditions. When coho that had survived predation (experienced) by lingcod ( Ophiodon elongatus ) were mixed with equal numbers of naive coho and exposed to predation, experienced fish consistently survived in greater numbers than did naive ones. When examined separately, experienced coho were able to avoid predation longer than naive coho. Coho exposed to stimuli associated with predation for two, 15-min bouts were better able to avoid capture by lingcod than naive fish, demonstrating that learning may play a major role in the development of predator avoidance. Salmon raised in the psychosensory-deprived environment of hatcheries appear to suffer from a decrement in predator avoidance which may be readily improved with conditioning. Coho stressed by handling showed a decreased ability to avoid predators, but recovered from this effect in 90 min.
Formation of steroid conjugates in the human. I. Biosynthesis of uridine diphosphate glucuronic acid

Abstract Three nucleoside diphosphate sugars were isolated from human placenta and characterized as uridine diphosphate (UDP)- D -glucuronic acid, UDP- D -glucose, and UDP- D -xylose. Formation of UDP- D -glucuronic acid in human placenta as well as in human testis was confirmed by oxidation of UDP- D -glucose catalyzed by UDPglucose dehydrogenase (UDPglucose: NAD oxidoreductase, E.C. 1.1.1.22). Both placental and testicular UDPglucose dehydrogenase require specifically nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) for activity, and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate cannot substitute for NAD in activating the enzyme. The pH optimum is in the vicinity of 9.0 in glycine-NaOH buffer. UDP- D -xylose was found to act as an effective inhibitor of both enzyme preparations. Inhibition of placental UDPglucose dehydrogenase by high concentrations of estriol-16-glucuronate is shown here for the first time.
Cost-Effectiveness of Early Versus Delayed Functional Restoration for Chronic Disabling Occupational Musculoskeletal Disorders

Purpose Despite extensive evidence for the treatment effectiveness of interdisciplinary functional restoration (FR) for chronic disabling occupational musculoskeletal disorders (CDOMD), there is little documentation on the cost-effectiveness of early rehabilitation using FR. Methods A total of 1,119 CDOMD patients were classified according to duration of disability on FR entry, corresponding to early rehabilitation (ER: 4–8 months of disability, N = 373), intermediate duration (ID: 9–18 months, N = 373), and delayed rehabilitation (DR: >18 months, N = 373). Groups were matched on sex, age, ethnicity, and injured musculoskeletal region. One-year post-rehabilitation outcomes included return-to-work, work retention and healthcare utilization. Economic analyses included a cost-effectiveness analysis of the FR program, and estimation of the total cost-of-illness. Results At 1-year post-rehabilitation, all groups were comparable on return-to-work (overall 88 %), work retention (overall 80 %), and additional healthcare utilization (overall, 2.2 % of patients received re-operations/new surgeries, 2 visits to new healthcare provider). Savings of up to 64 % in medical costs, and up to 80 % in disability benefits and productivity losses was associated with the ER group. The cost of rehabilitation was also up to 56 % lower when administered early. Overall, ER resulted in estimated cost savings of up to 72 % (or almost $170,000 per claim). Conclusions Duration of disability does not negatively impact objective work or healthcare utilization outcomes following interdisciplinary FR. However, early rehabilitation is more likely to be a cost-effective solution compared to cases that progress >8 months and receiving FR as a treatment of “last resort”.
Modeling the effect of initial planting density on within tree variation of stiffness in loblolly pine

Modulus of elasticity (MOE) is an important mechanical property determining the end-use and value of loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) lumber. In this study, a model was developed to predict the within tree variation of MOE, from pith-to-bark and stump-to-tip, using data collected from a 21-year-old unthinned stand where trees were planted under seven initial stand density levels (746–2,243 trees/hectare). The study was laid out in a randomized complete block design, with seven levels of initial planting density, replicated three times. Seven trees were destructively sampled from each plot, and bolts were cut from each tree at heights of 2.4, 7.3, and 12.2 m. Static bending samples (of dimension 2.5 × 2.5 × 40.6 cm) representing pith-to-bark variation were cut from each bolt and MOE measured. A three-parameter logistic function was used to model the pith-to-bark variation in stiffness with distance from pith as an explanatory variable. Based on the final fitted model, it was found that the asymptotic parameter (maximum outerwood MOE = 13.48 GPa) was not influenced by sampling height, initial planting density, and stem slenderness. However, the inflection and scale parameters were significantly influenced by these variables. In summary, we found that initial planting density had a significant influence on the amount of corewood produced with higher initial planting densities producing a lower proportion of corewood as indicated by a linear decrease in inflection point with an increase in planting density.
Artisan occupations in the global economy: A conceptual framework

Abstract Craft production occurs in all sectors of the global economy. This paper provides a context for the study of the occupations of producing and selling crafts. Embedded in the world's political economy, crafts are a vehicle for individuals and societies to adapt to changing systems of production, a means for economic and cultural expression, and a voice of resistance against domination and oppression. Through crafts, tradition is maintained and/or invented, and marketed to consumers who find other meanings in the objects. Study of the mode of craft production offers insight into new occupational strategies to respond to de‐industrialization, using pre‐industrial forms. Romanticized by the Arts and Crafts Movement, the qualities of craft work took on therapeutic as well as economic significance in European and American society. Today, throughout the world, the marketing of crafts has economic and social significance. Study of work in crafts illustrates the contested nature of occupations and adds to...
Smart Meter Driven Segmentation: What Your Consumption Says About You

With the rollout of smart metering infrastructure at scale, demand-response (DR) programs may now be tailored based on users' consumption patterns as mined from sensed data. For issuing DR events it is key to understand the inter-temporal consumption dynamics as to appropriately segment the user population. We propose to infer occupancy states from consumption time series data using a hidden Markov model framework. Occupancy is characterized in this model by 1) magnitude, 2) duration, and 3) variability. We show that users may be grouped according to their consumption patterns into groups that exhibit qualitatively different dynamics that may be exploited for program enrollment purposes. We investigate empirically the information that residential energy consumers' temporal energy demand patterns characterized by these three dimensions may convey about their demographic, household, and appliance stock characteristics. Our analysis shows that temporal patterns in the user's consumption data can predict with good accuracy certain user characteristics. We use this framework to argue that there is a large degree of individual predictability in user consumption at a population level.
Superplastic Forming Formula for Aluminum Channel Panels

A parametric study was conducted to determine how the design features and forming parameters affect part thinning and forming time in the Superplastic Forming Process (SPF). Explicit formulas, describing the maximum percent thinning and the forming time for channel parts formed by the SPF process as a function of eight designs and forming parameters, were derived. The formulas are good approximations of those obtained by finite element simulation analyses and physical experiments. Thinning of the channels was influenced most by the component aspect ratio (height versus width) and entry radius at top of the channel forming tool. The forming time was most influenced by strain rate, aspect ratio and tool bottom radius. A design domain can be established to avoid excessive thinning. The Taguchi design-of-experiment method was applied to select parameter combinations, and the MARC finite element code was used to conduct sectional analysis for various combinations.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
A note on the hyperbolic singular value decomposition

Abstract A procedure is presented for constructing the hyperbolic singular value decomposition of a matrix A with respect to a signature matrix Φ. When the rank of A is less than the rank of A H Φ A , the decomposition preserves the structure of the isotropic subspace of the column space of A .
Protein NPM3 interacts with the multifunctional nucleolar protein B23/nucleophosmin and inhibits ribosome biogenesis

Protein B23/nucleophosmin is a multifunctional protein that plays roles in ribosome biogenesis, control of centrosome duplication, and regulation of p53 expression. A yeast two-hybrid screen was performed in a search for interaction partners of B23. The complementary DNA for a highly acidic protein, nucleoplasmin 3 (NPM3), was found in multiple positive clones. Protein NPM3 and its interaction with B23 were further characterized. Endogenous B23 was able to be co-immunoprecipitated with NPM3, and this complex was resistant to ribonuclease treatment and high concentrations of salt. The N-terminal 35-90 amino acids of B23 were found to be required for their interaction. Separate co-immunoprecipitation studies of B23 and NPM3 suggested the existence of two different complexes, one containing B23 and 28 S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and another composed of B23, NPM3, and other proteins, but no RNA. NPM3 was localized in the nucleolus, and its nucleolar localization depended on active rRNA transcription. In the cells overexpressing NPM3, there were decreased rates of pre-rRNA synthesis and processing. Overexpression of a mutant of NPM3 that did not interact with B23 did not alter pre-rRNA synthesis and processing, suggesting that the interaction of NPM3 with B23 plays a role in the ribosome biogenesis.
Combination of loop diuretics with thiazide-type diuretics in heart failure

Volume overload is an important clinical target in heart failure management, typically addressed using loop diuretics. An important and challenging subset of heart failure patients exhibit fluid overload despite significant doses of loop diuretics. One approach to overcome loop diuretic resistance is the addition of a thiazide-type diuretic to produce diuretic synergy via “sequential nephron blockade,” first described more than 40 years ago. Although potentially able to induce diuresis in patients otherwise resistant to high doses of loop diuretics, this strategy has not been subjected to large-scale clinical trials to establish safety and clinical efficacy. We summarize the existing literature evaluating the combination of loop and thiazide diuretics in patients with heart failure in order to describe the possible benefits and hazards associated with this therapy. Combination diuretic therapy using any of several thiazide-type diuretics can more than double daily urine sodium excretion to induce weight loss and edema resolution, at the risk of inducing severe hypokalemia in addition to hyponatremia, hypotension, and worsening renal function. We provide considerations about prudent use of this therapy and review potential misconceptions about this long-used diuretic approach. Finally, we seek to highlight the need for pragmatic clinical trials for this commonly used therapy.
Effect of chromophore diffusion on electronic excitation transfer in micellar systems

Abstract An analytical theory and Monte Carlo simulations are used to study electronic excitation transport (EET) among chromophores diffusing on the surface of spherical micelles. The effect of molecular diffusion on the experimental observables is analyzed for two limiting cases, donor-trap (DT) and donor-donor (DD) EET. Analytical expressions are given for the time-dependent ensemble averaged survival probability of the excited donor P ( t ) in the DT case. Diffusion is found to have a pronounced effect on the excitation transfer kinetics except when chromophores have long Forster transfer distances R 0 and short fluorescence lifetimes.
Beam Test of a Segmented Foil SEM Grid

A prototype Secondary-electron Emission Monitor (SEM) was installed in the 8 GeV proton transport line for the MiniBooNE experiment at Fermilab. The SEM is a segmented grid made with 5 µm Ti foils, intended for use in the 120 GeV NuMI beam at Fermilab. Similar to previous workers, we found that the full collection of the secondary electron signal requires a bias voltage to draw the ejected electrons cleanly off the foils, and this effect is more pronounced at larger beam intensity. The beam centroid and width resolutions of the SEM were measured at beam widths of 3, 7, and 8 mm, and compared to calculations. Extrapolating the data from this
Is intravenous urography necessary in the assessment of renal duplex system in children

Objective: Partial or complete duplication of the renal tract may be an incidental finding or may be associated with significant pathology. Accurate assessment is not always easy. This retrospective review was undertaken to determine whether intravenous urography (IVU) in combination with a DMSA renal scan provides significant additional information. Patients and methods: Eighteen patients referred to our imaging department with a provisional diagnosis on ultrasound of renal tract duplication during a three year period were identified by searching the radiological computer files. The presenting features were urinary infection (13), abdominal pain (3) and abnormal antenatal sonography (2). Results: Four patients were found not to have renal duplication. There was concordance between the IVU and DMSA scan in seven. Additional clinically relevant information was obtained in three cases. A false negative result from the DMSA scan was found in four children and a false positive result in three. Conclusion: In a significant number of cases of possible renal tract duplication, additional relevant information can be obtained from an IVU. Patient distress is minimised by combining the IVU and DMSA in one single episode of venous access. Review of the radiological images during the investigation allows minimisation of radiation dosage.
The Croatian police, police integrity, and transition toward democratic policing

Purpose – This paper aims to explore a critical component of the successful transition into a democratic police agency – the state of police integrity – among the Croatian police officers. The paper also analyzes the police officers' views about the community policing efforts.Design/methodology/approach – The questionnaire administered to police officers in Croatia focuses on various forms of police misconduct, as well as the respondents' views about community policing. A random sample of 811 Croatian police officers was collected at the end of 2008.Findings – The results of 2008 survey portray a more optimistic picture of integrity of the Croatian police than the results of the 1995 survey did. The respondents in 2008 seem to expect more serious discipline than the respondents in 1995 did. Furthermore, the code of silence – one of the key elements of police integrity theory – seems to be weakening. However, the evaluations of scenario seriousness remain relatively similar, indicating a common hierarchy o...
DYNAMIC RELATIONS BETWEEN MACROECONOMIC VARIABLES AND THE JAPANESE STOCK MARKET: AN APPLICATION OF A VECTOR ERROR CORRECTION MODEL

By employing the vector error correction model (VECM) in a system of seven equations, we find that the Japanese stock market is cointegrated with a group of six macroeconomic variables. The signs of the long-term elasticity coefficients of the macroeconomic variables on stock prices generally support the hypothesized equilibrium relations. Our findings are robust to different combinations of macroeconomic variables in six-dimension systems and two subperiods. Also, the VECM consistently outperforms the vector autoregressive model in forecasting ability.
Computer Implementation of a New Approach to the Ideal Resonance Problem

A new approach to the librational solution of the Ideal Resonance Problem has been devised--one in which a non-canonical transformation is applied to the classical Hamiltonian to bring it to the form of the simple harmonic oscillator. Although the traditional form of the canonical equations of motion no longer holds, a ‘quasi-canonical’ form is retained in this single-degree-of-freedom system, with the customary equations being multiplied by a non-constant factor. While this makes the resulting system amenable to traditional transformation techniques, it must then be integrated directly. Singularities of the transformation in the circulation region limit application of the method to the librational region of motion.
The iC3b receptor of Candida albicans and its Roles in Pathogenesis

On the basis of biochemical and immunologic studies, a receptor for iC3b with some activities reminiscent of the integrins CD11b and CD11c was defined on the cell wall of clinical and laboratory isolates of Candida albicans. The INT1 gene encodes a protein of 1659 amino acids; the Int1 protein participates in adhesion to epithelial cells in vitro and in vivo. Int1 is essential for hyphal morphogenesis and virulence in a murine model. Recent evidence points to the amino terminus of Int1 as the source of a peptide, Pep263, with superantigen-like activities.
How female practitioners in Moscow view their profession: A pilot study

Abstract This pilot study investigated how female public relations practitioners in Moscow, Russia perceived their profession. The findings suggest that perceptions of public relations as a service-oriented profession are deeply rooted in the patriarchal tradition of the Russian society. In addition, results demonstrated that Moscow female practitioners articulated both advantages and disadvantages of viewing public relations as a service-oriented profession in Russia.
Enameloplasty effects on microleakage of pit and fissure sealants under load: an in vitro study

Enameloplasty has been implicated in the successful application of pit and fissure sealants. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of enameloplasty technique on microleakage of sealants when occlusal force was applied on the teeth. The study also allowed a direct comparison of the effectiveness of enameloplasty, when two different burs were used. Six groups of ten human extracted wisdom teeth were tested. Group A: no load, conventional (no enameloplasty--control); Group B: no load, enameloplasty 1/2 round bur (Brasseler USA); Group C: no load, enameloplasty diamond fissure bur REF/UP 791 (Ultradent); Group D: load 500 N, conventional, Group E: load 500 N, 1/2 round bur; Group F: load 500 N, diamond fissure bur. Specimens were thermocycled for 500 cycles at 5 degrees C and 55 degrees C with a dwell time of 30 seconds after load application. Microleakage was scored as distance of dye penetration with 0 = no microleakage and 3 = microleakage to underling fissure. The Kruskal-Wallis One Way Anova and Mann-Whitney U test showed group D having the greatest degree of microleakage statistically significant (p 0.05), or between Groups B and C (p > 0.05) and between Groups E and F (p > 0.05). The results of the study indicated that enameloplasty reduced microleakage of pit and fissure sealants, especially when load was applied to teeth, irrespective of what bur was used to enlarge the fissure, as there was no statistical significant differences between the round and fissured diamond burs. The application of occlusal force to the tooth produces significantly more microleakage, unless enameloplasty is performed.
Past and ongoing shifts in Joshua tree distribution support future modeled range contraction

The future distribution of the Joshua tree (Yucca brevifolia) is projected by combining a geostatistical analysis of 20th-century climates over its current range, future modeled climates, and paleoecological data showing its response to a past similar climate change. As climate rapidly warmed ∼11 700 years ago, the range of Joshua tree contracted, leaving only the populations near what had been its northernmost limit. Its ability to spread northward into new suitable habitats after this time may have been inhibited by the somewhat earlier extinction of megafaunal dispersers, especially the Shasta ground sloth. We applied a model of climate suitability for Joshua tree, developed from its 20th-century range and climates, to future climates modeled through a set of six individual general circulation models (GCM) and one suite of 22 models for the late 21st century. All distribution data, observed climate data, and future GCM results were scaled to spatial grids of ∼1 km and ∼4 km in order to facilitate appli...
Evaluation of Alternative Dates for Advance Notification on Portable Changeable Message Signs in Work Zones

Results of a laptop-based human factors study of alternative formats of presenting notice of future roadwork messages on portable changeable message signs (PCMS) in highway work zones are documented. A total of 192 participants across Texas were shown a series of different twophase messages for a fixed period of time and asked questions by test administrators to determine comprehension and recall of the information presented in each message. Participants were also asked to indicate their preferred format for presenting such information on a PCMS. On the basis of these studies, it is recommended that messages that require the display of calendar dates for future roadwork and other traffic control activities use a message format consisting of the three-character abbreviation of the month (e.g., APR for April) in conjunction with the date. When future work activities span several days in the same month, the month needs to be noted only once in the message (i.e., APR 21-23) rather than repeating the month (i....
Oxidants and the pathogenesis of lung diseases

The increasing number of population-based and epidemiologic associations between oxidant pollutant exposures and cardiopulmonary disease exacerbation, decrements in pulmonary function, and mortality underscores the important detrimental effects of oxidants on public health. Because inhaled oxidants initiate a number of pathologic processes, including inflammation of the airways, which may contribute to the pathogenesis and/or exacerbation of airways disease, it is critical to understand the mechanisms through which exogenous and endogenous oxidants interact with molecules in the cells, tissues, and epithelial lining fluid of the lung. Furthermore, it is clear that interindividual variation in response to a given exposure also exists across an individual lifetime. Because of the potential impact that oxidant exposures may have on reproductive outcomes and infant, child, and adult health, identification of the intrinsic and extrinsic factors that may influence susceptibility to oxidants remains an important issue. In this review, we discuss mechanisms of oxidant stress in the lung, the role of oxidants in lung disease pathogenesis and exacerbation (eg, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and acute respiratory distress syndrome), and the potential risk factors (eg, age, genetics) for enhanced susceptibility to oxidant-induced disease.
Baseline Results of the Self-Reported Sexual Behaviors of Midwestern African American Adolescents

The purpose of this article is to examine the self-reported sexual behaviors of African American adolescents living in the Midwest. A baseline survey was administered to 448 African American youth between the ages of 12 and 17. The article examines the self-reported sexual behaviors of African American adolescents in comparison to U.S. norms using the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance Survey and the Kansas Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance Survey. The results indicate that this African American sample was slightly younger than the U.S. sample and reported better safer sex practices. Limitations and future research are also discussed.
Inhibition of NF-kappa B by pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate blocks endothelial cell activation

Endothelial cell activation is achieved by the rapid, protein synthesis-independent induction of a characteristic set of genes. Because of the abundance of binding sites for the transcription factor NF-kappa B in the regulatory region of the aforementioned genes, we hypothesized that this factor might play a key role. Reactive oxygen intermediates act as second messengers in the activation of NF-kappa B. We have used the antioxidant pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate to analyze the effect of NF-kappa B inhibition on TNF alpha-induced EC activation in vitro. We show that pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate strongly reduces the TNF alpha-mediated induction of E-selectin, VCAM-1, ICAM-1, PAI-1, tissue factor, IL-8 and I kappa B-alpha. We present evidence identifying NF-kappa B as a central of EC activation. Therefore, this factor may represent a prime target for therapeutic intervention in pathologic conditions associated with EC activation such as allo- and xenograft rejection, atherosclerosis, ischemic reperfusion injury and vasculitis.
Fractional Opial Type Inequalities and Fractional Differential Equations

A set of very general Opial type inequalities ([7]) is established involving fractional derivatives of different orders. These are based on Taylor’s formula for fractional derivatives. These results are applied in proving uniqueness to the solutions of very general fractional initial value problems of fractional ordinary differential equations.
Framing Violence: ARGENTINA'S GENDER GAP

This article analyzes civil societal discourses on violence in contemporary Argentina and identifies a gender ‘gap’ therein. I argue that class-based interpretations of violence have frequently eclipsed gendered understandings, even though the two perspectives are not mutually exclusive. Through an examination of the collective action frames that human rights advocates use, I demonstrate that activists often politicize two forms of violence that disproportionately affect Argentina's popular sectors: police brutality and the neoliberal economic model. The neoliberalism-as-violence frame in particular has resonated broadly due to the high rates of unemployment and poverty that are characteristic of the country's recent economic and social crisis. The article then proposes several factors that contribute to the predominance of class and the disjuncture between gender-based and class-based perspectives on violence. The analysis concludes with some reflections on the potential consequences of under-gendered discourses.
Quantifying the role of geographic change in Cenozoic ocean heat transport using uncoupled atmosphere and ocean models

Abstract A series of five Cenozoic atmospheric general circulation model (AGCM) experiments has been performed using a new set of paleogeographic reconstructions for 55, 40, 33, 20 and 14 Ma. The five continental reconstructions incorporate the tectonic evolution of early Eocene to middle Miocene continental positions and topography. With all other model boundary conditions and forcings held constant, the series of AGCM experiments captures a
Penile and Genital Injuries

Genital injuries are significant because of their association with injuries to major pelvic and vascular organs that result from both blunt and penetrating mechanisms, and the chronic disability resulting from penile, scrotal, and vaginal trauma. Because trauma is predominantly a disease of young persons, genital injuries may profoundly affect health-related quality of life and contribute to the burden of disease related to trauma. This article reviews the mechanism, initial evaluation, and operative management of injuries to the male and female external genitalia including the penis, scrotal skin, and vaginal structures.
Mechanism-Based Inactivation of Ammonia Monooxygenase in Nitrosomonas europaea by Allylsulfide.

Allylsulfide caused an irreversible inactivation of ammonia monooxygenase (AMO) activity (ammonia-dependent O2 uptake) in Nitrosomonas europaea. The hydroxylamine oxidoreductase activity (hydrazine-dependent O2 uptake) of cells was unaffected by allylsulfide. Anaerobic conditions or the presence of allylthiourea, a reversible noncompetitive AMO inhibitor, protected AMO from inactivation by allylsulfide. Ammonia did not protect AMO from inactivation by allylsulfide but instead increased the rate of inactivation. The inactivation of AMO followed pseudo-first-order kinetics, but the observed rates did not saturate with increasing allylsulfide concentrations. The time course of recovery of AMO-dependent nitrite production after complete inactivation by allylsulfide required de novo protein synthesis. Incubation of cells with allylsulfide prevented the 14C label from 14C2H2 (a suicide mechanism-based inactivator of AMO) from being incorporated into the 27-kDa polypeptide of AMO. Some compounds structurally related to allylsulfide were unable to inactivate AMO. We conclude that allylsulfide is a specific, mechanism-based inactivator of AMO in N. europaea.