cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Thermal Energy Collection from Precast Concrete Roof Assemblies

The development of precast concrete housing systems provides an opportunity to easily and inexpensively incorporate solar energy collection by casting collector tubes into the roof structure. A design is presented for a precast solar water heating system used to aid in meeting the space and domestic water heating loads of a single-family residence. A three-dimensional transient collector model is developed to characterize the precast solar collector’s performance throughout the day. The model describes the collector as a series of segments in the axial direction connected by a fluid flowing through an embedded tube. Each segment is represented by a two-dimensional solid model with top boundary conditions determined using a traditional flat plate solar collector model. The precast collector is coupled to a series solar assisted heat pump system and used to meet the heating needs of the residence. The performance of the proposed system is compared to the performance of a typical air-to-air heat pump. Using the system model, various designs and operating parameters were analyzed to determine a set of near optimal design values. The annual performance of the near optimal system was evaluated to determine the energy and cost savings for applications in Atlanta, GA and Chicago, IL. In addition, a life cycle cost was completed to determine the economic feasibility of the proposed system. The results of the annual study show that capturing solar energy using the precast collector and applying the energy through a solar assisted heat pump can reduce the electricity required for heating by more than 50 percent in regions with long heating seasons such as Chicago. The life cycle cost analysis shows that the energy savings justifies the increase in initial cost in locations with long heating seasons but that the system is not economically attractive in locations with shorter heating seasons.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Polymorphism of human CD1 genes.

Human CD1 genes have been reported to be invariant or to show limited polymorphism. Recently, certain functions of CD1 antigens have been described to include the presentation lipid and glycolipid antigens. These observations prompted a thorough survey of the genetic polymorphism in the five human CD1 genes (CD1a–CD1e). Using polymerase chain reaction-single stranded conformational polymorphism (PCR-SSCP) combined with sequence analyses, exons 2 and 3 from CD1a–CD1e were characterized from a total of 110 unrelated healthy donors. Results showed that all five genes (CD1a–CD1e) are polymorphic in exon 2. Substitutions in CD1b and CD1c are silent, whereas, substitutions in CD1a, CD1d and CD1e result in amino acid replacements in the deduced protein products. CD1a and CD1e polymorphisms are prevalent in the population. The substitutions in CD1a have characteristics that may influence interactions with β2-microglobulin (β2-m) or accessory molecules. The substitution in CD1e is located in the region predicted to interact with ligands and may differentially impact the ability of CD1e alleles to bind antigen.
AGE SPECIFIC PROSTATE SPECIFIC ANTIGEN REFERENCE RANGES: POPULATION SPECIFIC

AbstractPurpose: We determined whether 60 to 79-year-old men with a negative digital rectal examination and a serum prostate specific antigen (PSA) within age specific PSA reference ranges could safely forgo prostate biopsy.Materials and Methods: We reviewed the medical records of all 60 to 79-year-old men at the Brooklyn Veterans Administration Medical Center who had a PSA assay, digital rectal examination and subsequent prostate biopsy for an abnormal rectal examination and/or PSA greater than 4.0 ng./ml. from January 1991 through August 1995. We compared our results using the standard reference range of 0 to 4.0 ng./ml. with those obtained had we used any of 4 different age specific PSA reference ranges.Results: We performed 1,280 prostate biopsies in 1,046 men with available PSA and digital rectal examination data. Using age specific PSA reference ranges 73 of 1,280 biopsies (5.7%) would have been avoided. Of those 73 avoided biopsies 15 (20.5%) had cancer that would have gone undetected and 9 of 15 (...
Free recall of homographs and their primary associates

Free recall of homographs and their primary associates was investigated under various priming conditions. Priming consisted of presenting distracting items simulatneously with to-be-remembered words during the study phases of free recall trials. When the distracting items were words related to the alternate meanings of the homographs, that is, meanings unrelated to the meanings inferred from the primary associates, both clustering between homographs and their primary associates and recall across trials were markedly reduced, relative to control conditions receiving neutral items (words or digits) as distractors.
Equilibrium charge-state fractions for 2.7–31 keV deuterium atoms and ions in strontium vapor

Abstract Equilibrium charge-state fractions of 2.7–31 keV deuterium in strontium vapor are reported. The energy dependence of the D - equilibrium yield is discussed. The results are compared with the D - yield in cesium and magnesium vapors.
Purification and Partial Characterization of Oat Bran Globulin

Oat bran protein isolate was fractionated into Osborne fractions: albumin, globulin, prolamin, and glutelin. Globulin and glutelin were the major fractions. The oat bran globulin (OBG) fraction was purified by ammonium sulfate [(NH4)2SO4, 30−80% saturation] precipitation. Purification was achieved at 50% saturation of (NH4)2SO4. Purified globulin was analyzed by gel filtration, sodium dodecyl sulfate−polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS−PAGE), and circular dichroism (CD) to determine molecular size, subunit molecular weights, and secondary strucure, respectively. Disulfide linkage (−S−S−) and sulfhydryl (SH) contents were also estimated. Apparent molecular weight of globulin was ∼330 kDa. SDS−PAGE showed two broad bands, one in the molecular range between 22 and 31 kDa and the other, between 34 and 42 kDa. CD spectra of OBG in phosphate buffer (0.4 M NaCl, pH 7.6) showed that it conformed to a helical structure of ∼50%, 43% β-structure, and a low percentage of turns and random coil. In the presence of...
Stochastic coupling and thermodynamic inequalities

Let μ1 and μ2 be thermodynamic Gibbs measures on ℝm and ℝn, respectively. Diffusions are constructed having μ1, and μ2 as invariant measures. These diffusions are then coupled; inequalities between expectations of certain random variables on the two spaces result.
The inverted functional matrix: a new approach to project intensive software engineering courses

The inverted functional matrix provides a new approach to organizing and managing projects in software engineering courses. The model simulates real-world software development and provides meaningful and varied experiences for students. Individual teams are functional units, responsible for different life cycle phases. The Inverted Functional Matrix is so named because the students are distributed to successive functional teams of a single project rather than, as in a traditional functional matrix, working on a single functional team which is then distributed across multiple projects. The entire class is organized to work on a single project, and all students serve on either multiple teams, in multiple life cycle phases, or on an entire life cycle support team. Details of the project organization, team structure, management and assessment issues, and benefits of this approach are discussed.
Arachidonic acid metabolism in normal and transformed rat tracheal epithelial cells and its possible role in the regulation of cell proliferation.

The objectives of our investigations were to characterize the profile of arachidonic acid metabolites produced by cultured rat tracheal epithelial cells, and to determine whether or not transformation of these cells causes major qualitative or quantitative changes in arachidonic acid metabolism and whether arachidonic acid metabolites play an important role in the regulation of proliferation of rat tracheal cells. Our studies showed that prostaglandin E2 was the only major prostanoid produced by normal and transformed rat tracheal epithelial cells. When stimulated with calcium ionophore A23187, 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate, arachidonic acid, or serum, the cultures produced small amounts of thromboxane B^ prostaglandin F2α and hydroxyeicosate-traenoic acidfs) in addition to prostaglandin E2. Mitogenesis studies showed that none of the peptide growth factors tested stimulated either prostaglandin E2 production or DNA synthesis. Fetal bovine serum, on the other hand, stimulated both. 12-0-Tetradecano...
The effect of bupropion on nicotine craving and withdrawal

Rationale and objectives: Bupropion has demonstrated efficacy for smoking cessation. Given the importance of nicotine craving and withdrawal in the smoking cessation process, the current study examined the effects of bupropion on these parameters during smoking abstinence. Methods: During a 2-day Baseline phase with ad lib smoking, 91 non-depressed smokers (who were not trying to quit permanently) were administered measures of nicotine craving, withdrawal symptoms, and timed measures of cognitive performance five times daily. Participants were then assigned randomly to a 14-day treatment regimen with bupropion 300 mg/day, bupropion 150 mg/day, or placebo. Thereafter, the above measures were re-administered during 3 days of abstinence on a closed research ward. Results: Relative to placebo, 300 mg bupropion significantly reduced abstinence-associated increases in rated depression, difficulty concentrating, and irritability, and attenuated a decrease in positive affect. The results also suggested that bupropion might have a positive effect on performance measures during the withdrawal period. No effects were observed on craving, anxiety, restlessness, or hunger. The lack of findings on craving measures may be explained by a floor effect; except on the first day of abstinence, neither drug nor placebo groups showed much craving elevation during abstinence. Conclusions: Study results indicate that bupropion ameliorates some nicotine withdrawal symptoms.
Infection control in the intensive care unit

It is critical for health care personnel to recognize and appreciate the detrimental impact of intensive care unit (ICU)-acquired infections. The economic, clinical, and social expenses to patients and hospitals are overwhelming. To limit the incidence of ICU-acquired infections, aggressive infection control measures must be implemented and enforced. Researchers and national committees have developed and continue to develop evidence-based guidelines to control ICU infections. A multifaceted approach, including infection prevention committees, antimicrobial stewardship programs, daily reassessments-intervention bundles, identifying and minimizing risk factors, and continuing staff education programs, is essential. Infection control in the ICU is an evolving area of critical care research.
Gaussian models for observed dispersion in high redshift gamma ray bursts

Astronomical observations of gamma-ray bursts commonly exhibit dispersive behavior where high-energy gamma rays arrive significantly later than low-energy photons. Although certain quantum gravity theories suggest such dispersion, the underlying mechanisms are not yet fully understood. Nevertheless, a quadratic polynomial model has been proposed for the frequency-dependent photon velocity. Substituting this model into the Helmholtz equation then leads to a number of candidate forms of the underlying differential equations, where additional terms in the Maxwell equations model the observed dispersion. Unfortunately, this quadratic dispersion model results in unusual behavior such as superluminal velocity. Therefore, a new Gaussian dispersion model is also proposed. This Gaussian model closely approximates the quadratic model at low frequencies while avoiding the superluminal behavior of quadratic models.
Privacy of medical records: IT implications of HIPAA

Increasingly, medical records are being stored in computer databases that allow for efficiencies in providing treatment and in the processing of clinical and financial services. Computerization of medical records has also diminished patient privacy and, in particular, has increased the potential for misuse, especially in the form of nonconsensual secondary use of personally identifiable records. Organizations that store and use medical records have had to establish security measures, prompted partially by an inconsistent patchwork of legal standards that vary from state to state. There is widespread appreciation among policy makers regarding the need for legal reform. The Health Information and Portability Accountability Act of 1996 mandated that the Administration develop regulations regarding the control of medical records. The Administration has offered regulations from the Department of Health and Human Services (Standards for Privacy of Individually Identifiable Health Information; Proposed Rule 45 CFR Parts 160 through 164). Survey data reveal what healthcare professionals who have access to sensitive medical records believe are the greatest threats to patients' privacy. The overlap between Administration proposals and the responses of healthcare professionals is striking.
Using Question-Answer Relationships to Build: Reading Comprehension in Science

The No Child Left Behind Act (2001) placed pressure on elementary teachers to raise standardized test scores in reading and mathematics. Unfortunately, the focus on reading and math has led to reduced time for science instruction. Mandatory standardized testing in science began in elementary schools across the United States in 2007. Instructing students in using a reading comprehension strategy—the question—answer relationship (QAR)—during science instruction can increase students' reading comprehension of science texts, leading to increased test scores in science and reading.
Semi-Preparative Reverse Phase HPLC Fractionation of Pesticides from Edible Fats and Oils

Abstract A semi-preparative (25 cm × 9.4 mm i.d.) HPLC ODS-bonded silica column was evaluated for the fractionation of pesticides from edible fats and oils of both animal and vegetable origin. Using acetonitrile as a mobile phase, organochlorine and organophosphorous pesticides with a wide range of polarity were eluted in the first 40 ml of eluate. Co-eluted lipid material ranged from 0 to 35 mg for 500 mg injections, depending on sample type. Excessively “dirty” samples (e.g., tallow) were further cleaned up on small Florisil columns. Recoveries of selected pesticides from fortified samples, which were determined by gas chromatography with electron capture and flame photometric detectors, ranged from 80 to 108%.
European Union and Africa: Two decades of Lomé

In light of the fact that the most recent Lome Convention is currently being renegotiated, this study attempts to assess the overall impact of the first three Lome Conventions on the trade flows of a selected group of African, Caribbean, and Pacific countries (ACP) to the European Union (EU). A brief summary of the major findings is that the Lome Conventions had no detectable impact on ACP countries' trade with the EU, except in the case of agricultural products during the Lome I period and that ACP countries did better than non-ACP countries in their traditional markets only, i.e., Yaounde ACP with the original six members of the EU and the Commonwealth ACP with the United Kingdom.
Biologic markers in ethylene oxide-exposed workers and controls

Ethylene oxide (EtO) is an alkylating agent and a model direct-acting mutagen and carcinogen. This study has evaluated a panel of biologic markers including EtO-hemoglobin adducts (EtO-Hb), sister-chromatid exchanges (SCEs), micronuclei, chromosomal aberrations (CAs), DNA single-strand breaks (SSB) and an index of DNA repair (ratio of UDS to NA-AAF-DNA binding) in the peripheral blood cells of 34 workers at a sterilization unit of a large university hospital and 23 controls working in the university library. Comprehensive environmental histories were obtained on each subject including detailed occupational and smoking histories. Industrial hygiene data obtained prior to the study and personal monitoring during the 8 years preceding the study showed that workers were subject to low-level exposure near or below the current Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standard of 1 ppm (TWA). Personal monitoring data obtained during 2 weeks prior to blood sampling were uniformly less than 0.3 ppm (TWA). After adjusting for smoking, EtO workplace exposure was significantly (p less than 0.001) associated with EtO-Hb (a carcinogen-protein adduct) and 2 measures of SCEs [the average number of SCEs/cell (SCE50) and the number of high frequency cells (SCEHFC)]. There was an apparent suppression of DNA repair capacity in EtO-exposed individuals as measured by the DNA repair index; i.e., the ratio of unscheduled DNA synthesis (UDS) and NA-AAF-DNA binding (p less than 0.01). No association of DNA repair index with smoking was found. Another important finding of this study is the highly significant correlation between EtO-Hb adduct levels and SCEHFC (p less than 0.01) and SCEs (p less than 0.02) which provides evidence of a direct link between a marker of biologically effective dose and markers of genotoxic response. In contrast, micronuclei, CAs and SSBs were not significantly elevated in the workers. The activity of the u-isoenzyme of glutathione-S-transferase (GT) was measured as a possible genetic marker of susceptibility and a modulator of biomarker formation. However, possibly because of confounding by age, no significant relationships were found between GT and any of the exposure-related markers by ANOVA or among other independent variables by regression. This study demonstrates significant effects of low-level EtO exposure, independent of smoking history, near or below 1 ppm on multiple biomarkers and suggests that the current OSHA standard may not be adequately protective. Previously described effects of smoking on EtO-Hb adducts, SCEs and SCEHFC were also seen in this study.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
A comparative analysis of net energy from woody biomass

Abstract Energy inputs are compared with biomass energy output for several sawtimber and woody biomass programs covering rotation ages from 2 to 120 yr. A consistent comparision with several published studies supports the hypothesis that the energy ratio ER (i.e. the ratio of energy out to energy in) increases with increasing rotation age. For example, ER without fertilization and artificial drying increases from about 10–23 at rotation ages 30 yr. Furthermore, it is shown that large changes in ER often produce negligible changes in the ratio of net-to-gross energy N G . Without fertilization and artificial drying, N G is always >0.87. However, if fertilization and artificial drying are used, N G may be as low as 0.60.
In vitro cytotoxicity of protocatechuic acid to cultured human cells from oral tissue: involvement in oxidative stress.

Abstract: Data on the biologic activity of protocatechuic acid are contradictory; some studies have shown that it acts as an antioxidant and suppresses chemical-induced carcinogenesis and others that it induces oxidative stress and promotes tumour formation. The anticarcinogenicity of protocatechuic acid was postulated to be related, in part, to its specific suppression of neoplastic hyperproliferation. To determine whether protocatechuic acid was preferentially antiproliferative to malignant cells, non-malignant and carcinoma cells were exposed for 24 hr to protocatechuic acid (2.5 to 25 mM) and viability was assessed with the neutral red assay. The cell lines were derived from tissues of the human oral cavity, the initial site of exposure upon ingestion of dietary protocatechuic acid, and included normal GN61 gingival fibroblasts, immortalized, non-tumorigenic S-G gingival epithelial cells, and malignant HSG1 cells derived from the salivary gland, HSC-2 cells from the floor of the oral cavity, and CAL27 cells from the tongue. Selective toxicity of protocatechuic acid to malignant cells was not observed. Furthermore, using a total cellular protein determination to quantitate cell growth, no differences in comparative sensitivities of S-G epithelial cells and HSG1 carcinoma cells were noted in a 3 day continuous exposure to 2.5 to 12.5 mM protocatechuic acid and in recovery from a 24 hr exposure to 3 to 15 mM protocatechuic acid. The S-G and HSG1 cells were then used to study the effects of elevated concentrations of protocatechuic acid on oxidative stress. For both cell types, protocatechuic acid induced oxidative stress, presumably through its bioactivation by a tyrosinase pathway. A brief exposure to 25 mM protocatechuic acid lowered the levels of intracellular glutathione and potentiated Fe2+-induced lipid peroxidation of the cells. As determined with the neutral red assay, S-G and HSG1 cells exposed briefly to a non-toxic level (0.5 mM) of the glutathione depleter, 1,3-bis(2-chloroethyl)-N-nitrosourea, were hypersensitive to a subsequent challenge with 10 mM protocatechuic acid and preexposure of the S-G and HSG1 cells to a nontoxic level of protocatechuic acid (2.5 mM) enhanced their sensitivity to a subsequent exposure to tert-butyl hydroperoxide. These findings were consistent with protocatechuic acid, at high levels (≥10 mM), acting as an inducer of oxidative stress.
ICP/AES Actinide Detection Limits

Inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) has been applied to the determination of some actinides and the isotopic composition of plutonium. The analysis of plutonium for metal impurities, including americium, has been reported. Prevalent figures of merit stated in the ICP-AES literature are experimentally determined detection limits. As a consequence, these were studied for the most sensitive lines of americium, curium, neptunium, and plutonium on a spectrometer system of moderate resolution. Our results are compared to published detection limits for some of the actinides. Data for curium, an element not previously investigated, are also included.
Oxidation characteristics of Ti-25Al-10Nb-3V-1Mo

Static oxidation kinetics of Ti-25Al-10Nb-3V-1Mo (atomic percent) were investigated in air over the temperature range of 650–1000°C using thermogravimetric analysis. The oxidation kinetics were complex at all exposure temperatures and displayed up to two distinct stages of parabolic oxidation. Breakaway oxidation occurred after long exposure times at high temperatures. Oxidation products were determined using x-ray diffraction techniques, electron microprobe analysis, and energy dispersive x-ray analysis. Oxide scale morphology was examined using scanning electron microscopy of the surfaces and cross-sections of oxidation specimens. The oxides during the parabolic stages were compact and multilayered, consisting primarily of TiO2 doped with Nb, a top layer of Al2O3 and a thin bottom layer of TiN. The transition between the first and second parabolic stage is linked to the formation of a TiAl layer at the oxide-metal interface. Porosity also formed in the TiO2 layer during the second stage, causing degradation of the oxide and breakaway oxidation.
Low root temperature, calcium, and nitrate ion interactions on nonexchangeable rubidium, cesium, and sodium absorption by bush beans

When nonexchangeable absorption of Rb86, Na22, and Cs137 by bush bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L. var. Improved Tendergreen) was determined at different root temperatures and with and without Ca additions or pretreatments, a strong interaction between temperature and Ca was observed. Ca inhibited Rb86 absorption markedly at low temperatures but had less effect on Cs137. Absorption of Na22 was inhibited by Ca at both low and high temperatures. Little effect for Ca with sometimes a Viets effect was observed at high temperature for Rb but not for Cs or Na. Ratio pairs of Rb, Ca, and Na were used as an index of similarity of absorption mechanisms. Cs and Rb, and Na and Rb appeared to be absorbed by different mechanisms at 10−3M as indicated by temperature and Ca responses. Nitrate-N stimulated uptake of Rb only at high temperature with or without Ca but not at low temperature. Ca in the pretreatment tended to result in greater long distance transport to shoots of Rb86 and Cs137 for the high temperature but Ca in the test solution slightly decreased the long distance transport. The data are discussed in terms of the Viets effect and of a possible role of Ca in synthesis of transport proteins.
Design of Curtain Wall Facades for Improved Solar Potential and Daylight Distribution

Abstract The current paper presents a study of the effect of equatorial-facing facade design on energy performance of multi-story buildings. Facade surfaces are assumed to be in the form of curtain walls, allowing for freedom in the design of surface geometry. The design parameters that are investigated include geometrical aspects, solar technologies integrated in the facades and the surface ratio and positioning of windows. The study is carried out for Montreal area (45 N). Preliminary results indicate that some designs are significantly more advantageous than a flat south facing facade. Electricity generation of PV system integrated in 50% of the surface of a facade shaped as folded platecan be increased by up to 56% as compared to theflat south facing facade, which serves as reference. When PV coverage is increased to 2/3 of the facade surface area, electricity generation can reach a factor of 2.8 of the reference. Heating and cooling loads are affected as well by the design. The increase of heating load can be mitigated by increasing the transparency of PV panels. The design of folded plates can affect daylighting level and distribution. While the total useful daylighting hours are not significantly compromised, for some configurations, the number of hours with large illuminanceis significantly reduced, as compared to the reference case.
The jaundiced patient

Abstract I believe that death follows surgery all too frequently. This is not to be attributed entirely to unexpected complications and technical errors. I should rather believe that in addition to these causes we should not overlook the failure to adequately utilize all possible means to make as early and accurate diagnosis as possible. That done, the mortality will be reduced. Space will not permit discussion of the treatment of jaundice, but there is one inescapable conclusion: that the jaundiced patient should not be refused operation on the suspicion that malignancy is the cause of painless jaundice.
Neurofibromatosis type I: Clinical and imaging features of Von Recklinghausen's disease

Abstract Objective: To discuss the case of a 45-year-old woman, with a prior diagnosis of neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF-1), complaining of low back and cervical spine pain with bilateral upper extremity paresthesias. Clinical Features: The patient had a dull, achy, constant low-back pain of 4 months' duration, with mild headaches and upper extremity paresthesias. Multiple skin lesions and spinopelvic postural imbalances were present. Diagnostic radiography, along with advanced imaging, demonstrated multilevel dysplastic osseous changes, with dural ectasia, scoliosis, and tumor extension. In addition to the previous diagnosis of NF-1, our clinical diagnosis included segmental dysfunction with resultant cervicalgia, lumbalgia, and myospasm. Intervention and Outcome: Treatment consisted of a course of spinal manipulation of the lumbopelvic region, with adjunctive therapy consisting of interferential therapy, heat, and rehabilitative exercise. Marked reduction in pain and paresthesia with improved function were achieved. Conclusions: NF-1 is a multisystem disease with neoplasia of the skin and nervous system. Patients experience a lifetime of morbidity and increased risk of mortality, depending on the extent of the disease. A multitude of therapeutic regimens may be engaged to improve NF-1–associated symptomatology and morbidity. Chiropractic spinal manipulation may have a positive effect in pain reduction and improved function in patients who have NF-1 without spinal instability. (J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2003;26:116-27)
Idiopathic scoliosis and the vestibular system.

Purpose Despite its high prevalence, the etiology underlying idiopathic scoliosis remains unclear. Although initial scrutiny has focused on genetic, biochemical, biomechanical, nutritional and congenital causes, there is growing evidence that aberrations in the vestibular system may play a role in the etiology of scoliosis. In this article, we discuss putative mechanisms for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and review the current evidence supporting a role for the vestibular system in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.
Human Sacrifice, Militarism, and Rulership: Materialization of State Ideology at the Feathered Serpent Pyramid, Teotihuacan

Human Sacrifice, Militarism, and Rulership: Materialization of State Ideology at the Feathered Serpent Pyramid, Teotihuacan. Saburo Sugiyama. New York: Cambridge University Press, 2005. 280 pp.
Reconstructivism On Honneth’s Hegelianism

In this paper I express enthusiastic solidarity with Axel Honneth's inheritance and transformation of several core Hegelian ideas, and express one major disagreement. The disagreement is not so muc...
A Comparison of Climate Signal Trend Detection Uncertainty Analysis Methods

AbstractTwo climate signal trend analysis methods are the focus of this paper. The uncertainty of trend estimate from these two methods is investigated using Monte Carlo simulation. Several theoretically and randomly generated series of white noise, first-order autoregressive and second-order autoregressive, are explored. The choice of method that is most appropriate for the time series of interest depends upon the autocorrelation structure of the series. If the structure has its autocorrelation coefficients decreased with increasing lags (i.e., an exponential decay pattern), then the method of Weatherhead et al. is adequate. If the structure exhibits a decreasing sinusoid pattern of coefficient with lags (or a damped sinusoid pattern) or a mixture of both exponential decay and damped sinusoid patterns, then the method of Leroy et al. is recommended. The two methods are then applied to the time series of monthly and globally averaged top-of-the-atmosphere (TOA) irradiances for the reflected solar shortwav...
Decoration Day in the Mountains: Traditions of Cemetery Decoration in the Southern Appalachians – By Alan Jabbour and Karen Singer Jabbour

To some degree, the title of this book is misleading, because the authors really focus their attention on a subregion of western North Carolina, including the counties of Swain, Jackson, and Graham...
Model-filled polymers. III, Rheological behavior of polystyrene containing cross-linked polystyrene beads

Abstract : The steady shear viscosity and dynamic moduli, at 180 and 200 C, of polystyrene composites, containing crosslinked monodisperse polystyrene beads varying in diameter from 0.2 to 0.8 microns, are independent of bead size and crosslink density, but increase with the volume fraction of beads. Steady shear viscosities exhibit power law regions up to 40% concentration of beads, but no yield stress. Storage and loss moduli are initially linear with frequency, on double logarithmic plots, with limiting slopes of 1.3 and 0.9, respectively. Uncrosslinked beads and beads crosslinked with 0.1% divinylbenzene are destroyed by thermomechanical dispersion in the melt. Keywords: Polystyrene composites; Filled polymers; Crosslinked monodisperse beads; Rheology; Dynamic mechanical analysis. (edc)
Analysis of Reinforced Concrete-Pipe Performance Data

Concrete pipes may be subject to deterioration from various conditions, including freeze-thaw weathering, acid corrosion, sulfate disruption, velocity abrasion of the concrete, and chloride corrosion of the reinforcing steel. The service life of reinforced concrete pipe thus varies significantly. Also, there are few detailed studies on concrete-pipe durability. Furthermore, analyses of the same data by different researchers have produced equations predicting dramatically different service lives. The results of two researchers’ analyses in the form of service-life equations, based on the most complete data set available, are presented and analyzed. While neither of their service-life equations can be judged a good model of concrete-pipe deterioration, one is shown to better model actual field performance. This analysis also suggests the direction for future data-collection efforts. Future efforts should be aimed at improved prediction of field performance and reinforced-concrete-pipe service life through a more detailed description of water chemistry and the inclusion of more older, deteriorated pipes.
Pragmatics and natural language generation

This paper addresses the question "why and how is it that we say the same thing differently to different people, or even to the same person in different circumstances?" We vary the content and form of our text in order to convey more information than is contained in the literal meanings of our words. This information expresses the speaker's interpersonal goals toward the hearer and, in general, his or her perception of the pragmatic aspects of the conversation. This paper discusses two insights that arise when one studies this question: the existence of a level of organization that mediates between communicative goals and generator decisions, and the interleaved planningrealization regime and associated monitoring required for generation. To illustrate these ideas, a computer program is described which contains plans and strategies to produce stylistically appropriate texts from a single representation under various settings that model pragmatic circumstances.
Ethnic and Religious Diversity and Income Inequality

Using cross-country data, we explore the relationship between ethnic and religious diversity and income inequality. For 58 countries spanning a 10-year period, we find a positive relationship between ethnic and religious polarization and income inequality and an inverse U-shaped relationship between ethnic and religious fractionalization and income inequality. According to our estimations (i) going from an ethnic (religious) polarization index of 0, to an ethnic (religious) polarization index of 1 would increase the Gini coefficient by almost 6 (respectively, 3) percentage points; and (ii) the Gini coefficient would be maximized when the ethnic (religious) fractionalization index is equal to 0.44 (respectively, 0.34). Implications are considered.
Synthetic orcein as an elastic tissue stain.

A study was made of various synthetic orceins in an effort to determine the optimal conditions for their use in staining elastic tissue. A simple technic has been developed, based on a modification of the method originally worked out by Taenzer. Orcein is used as a 0.4% solution in 70% alcohol containing 1% HC1. Sections are counterstained with Mallory's borax methylene blue. The solutions are easily prepared and may be used for several months. Although several methods require staining in orcein from 2 to 24 hours, the present method requires staining for only 30 minutes. After several types of fixation some of the dye samples stained collagenous tissue to varying degrees, but this could be diminished by slightly reducing the strength of the staining solution. Differential staining of elastic tissue was particularly specific in tissues fixed in acetone, collagen in these preparations remaining practically unstained by any of the dye samples.
Researching special populations: retention of Latino gay and bisexual men and transgender persons in longitudinal health research

Few studies have sought to assess predictors of retention of racial/ethnic or sexual minorities in longitudinal health research. The purpose of this study is to investigate predictors of retention of Latino gay and bisexual men and transgender (GBT) research participants after the baseline interview. Data come from a sample of 643 Latino GBT individuals in two cities (Chicago and San Francisco). We assessed potential predictors of retention (operationalized as successful re-contact) using binary logistic regression of retention on five factors (sociodemographic/health, residential stability, acculturation/attachment to the United States, gay community attachment/stigmatization and research process/design). Our overall follow-up rate was 83 and 80% at 3 and 6 months, respectively. We found that traditional factors (e.g. education, income) were not associated with retention among Latino GBT. The strongest predictors of successful retention were the number of pieces of contact information provided by participants and city of residence (San Francisco). Furthermore, successful methods of contact (i.e. telephone, email) varied by city. We conclude that a largely immigrant urban population of Latino GBT individuals can be successfully followed in longitudinal research. The strong relationship between study design variables and successful retention indicates that collection of thorough contact information is vital to successful follow-up with this population.
Signaling Cost Analysis of Mobility Protocols Using City Section Mobility Model

Increasing demand for mobility in wireless data network has given rise to various mobility management schemes. Most of the analysis on mobility protocols used Random Way- point (RWP) mobility model which fails to represent realistic movement pattern. In this paper, we have used City Section Mobility (CSM) model, a realistic mobility model, to compare the signaling costs of two host-mobility protocols: HIMPv6 and SIGMA, and two network-mobility protocols: NEMO BSP and SINEMO. Our analysis shows that the signaling cost of SIGMA (SINEMO) is much less than that of HMIPv6 (NEMO BSP) for both mobility models. We further find that the lookup cost component, which is independent of mobility models, dominates the total signaling cost. Hence, the total signaling costs of mobility protocols do not vary much for different mobility models.
Using WebQuests in the Social Sciences Classroom.

This article investigates if WebQuests have been an effective instructional tool for teaching Social Sciences subjects. In order to obtain an answer to this question, a review of scholarly literature from 1995 to the present has been undertaken and action research in 8th grade U.S. history course was conducted. The literature investigation has shown that WebQuests gained a prominent place as a valuable internet-based and inquiry-oriented teaching/learning tool that develops students’ higher-order thinking skills and shifts the classroom toward being more studentcentered. However, there has not been sufficient research to establish the effectiveness of this tool. The results of action research conducted in one of the middle schools in Northern California are a small contribution to this discussion.
L. Harmon Zeigler

L. Harmon Zeigler died from a massive heart attack in Tacoma on July 31, 2006. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Pat; his two children, Mike and Amanda; and three grandchildren, Ben, Zoe and Ruby.
Growth of Engineered Human Myocardium With Mechanical Loading and Vascular Coculture

Rationale: The developing heart requires both mechanical load and vascularization to reach its proper size, yet the regulation of human heart growth by these processes is poorly understood. Objective: We seek to elucidate the responses of immature human myocardium to mechanical load and vascularization using tissue engineering approaches. Methods and Results: Using human embryonic stem cell and human induced pluripotent stem cell–derived cardiomyocytes in a 3-dimensional collagen matrix, we show that uniaxial mechanical stress conditioning promotes 2-fold increases in cardiomyocyte and matrix fiber alignment and enhances myofibrillogenesis and sarcomeric banding. Furthermore, cyclic stress conditioning markedly increases cardiomyocyte hypertrophy (2.2-fold) and proliferation rates (21%) versus unconditioned constructs. Addition of endothelial cells enhances cardiomyocyte proliferation under all stress conditions (14% to 19%), and addition of stromal supporting cells enhances formation of vessel-like structures by ≈10-fold. Furthermore, these optimized human cardiac tissue constructs generate Starling curves, increasing their active force in response to increased resting length. When transplanted onto hearts of athymic rats, the human myocardium survives and forms grafts closely apposed to host myocardium. The grafts contain human microvessels that are perfused by the host coronary circulation. Conclusions: Our results indicate that both mechanical load and vascular cell coculture control cardiomyocyte proliferation, and that mechanical load further controls the hypertrophy and architecture of engineered human myocardium. Such constructs may be useful for studying human cardiac development as well as for regenerative therapy. # Novelty and Significance {#article-title-70}
Spacecraft Formation Flight About Libration Points

With the development of technologies that make Distributed Space Systems (DSS) a realistic option for incorporation into mission design, many new mission concepts have been proposed and will be proposed in the future which make use of this technology. Much of the research accomplished in the area of spacecraft formation flight has been applied to missions in geocentric orbits. Less attention, however, has been devoted to the application of DSS technologies to missions near libration points. Many of the features that make geocentric DSS architectures desirable are equally valid near libration points, such as increased sensor resolution, lower cost, and simplified development of smaller individual spacecraft. While the dynamics of a single spacecraft orbiting about a libration point are well known at this time, the relative dynamics of a formation of spacecraft at such a location has not yet received much study. One interesting and current challenge in the utilization of formation flying spacecraft is maintaining formation accuracy during both passive and observational modes of operation, with different modes requiring different levels of accuracy. The research described in this paper focuses on the development and analysis of discrete maneuvering techniques for maintaining a two satellite formation within required error tolerances for a g iven operational mode. In particular, formation sizes and control tolerances are sought for which impulsive maneuvering becomes a practical option.
Toxic pneumonitis in an adolescent following exposure to Snow Storm tablets.

Abstract Adolescence is often a time when experimentation with alcohol, cigarette smoking, and substance abuse occur. We report a rare complication of smoking, toxic pneumonitis in an adolescent female who combined an over-the-counter novelty item, Snow Storm tablets, with cigarettes.
Intracellular uptake of recombinant superoxide dismutase after intratracheal administration.

We have previously demonstrated that recombinant human copper-zinc superoxide dismutase (rhCu,ZnSOD) is rapidly incorporated into cells of airways, respiratory bronchioles, and alveoli after intratracheal administration. The present study examines whether this cellular uptake is specific for rhCu,ZnSOD or whether other proteins are similarly incorporated into lung cells. Twenty-two newborn piglets (2–3 days old, 1.2–2.0 kg) were intubated and mechanically ventilated. Eight piglets received fluorescently labeled recombinant human manganese superoxide dismutase (rhMnSOD), six received fluorescently labeled albumin, two received free (unbound) fluorescent label intratracheally, and two piglets served as untreated controls. To determine whether endogenous surfactant was important in the process of intracellular uptake, four additional piglets were made surfactant deficient by repeated bronchoalveolar lavage and then given rhCu,ZnSOD intratracheally. All animals were killed after 30–60 min. Lung sections were examined blindly by laser confocal microscopy. Similar to our previous observations with rhCu,ZnSOD, intracellular uptake of rhMnSOD and albumin was noted throughout the lung. The free label did not localize intracellularly. The uptake of proteins did not appear to be affected by surfactant deficiency. rhMnSOD administration was associated with a greater than twofold increase in lung MnSOD activity. Data suggest that the cellular uptake of antioxidants and other proteins in the lung may reflect a nonspecific host defense system for clearing proteins from the lumen of airways and alveoli.
Fracking and Labor Market Conditions: A Comparison of Pennsylvania and New York Border Counties

Hydraulic fracturing, a method of drilling natural gas wells, may pose harmful environmental and health effects. Because of this possibility, the state of New York placed a de facto moratorium on so-called fracking in 2008. Meanwhile, Pennsylvania has allowed fracking and hundreds of wells have been drilled. This study examines measures of labor market conditions in the border counties along the New York — Pennsylvania state line. The results suggest that restricted drilling in New York adversely affected labor markets in the state relative to Pennsylvania. These results contribute to the debate regarding fracking policies within the Marcellus Shale region.
Use of Facial Recognition Technology for Medical Purposes: Do Our Current Laws Protect Health Privacy?

Imagine applying for a job, and as part of your application process, your prospective employer asks for a photograph. You, as an eager candidate, comply with the request, and unbeknownst to you, the employer runs your picture through a software program that scans you for any common genetic diseases and that estimates your longevity. Alas, your face indicates that you may die young. No job for you.Although this sounds like science fiction, we may not be that far off from this scenario. In June 2014, scientists from Oxford reported that they have developed a facial-recognition program that uses ordinary family photos to help diagnose rare genetic conditions. Part I of this Article describes the potential applications of facial recognition technology in medicine that have recently been explored, highlighting the recent software that may be used for genetic screening. This Part delves into the heightened need for privacy when dealing with genetic conditions and discusses an individual’s right not to know about their genetic predispositions. Part II discusses the history of facial recognition technology in the United States and how it has been monitored and regulated. This Part concludes that the current regulatory regime for facial recognition technology is not well suited for medical applications of such technology. Part III examines whether health related legislation, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) or the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) provide adequate privacy protection from software that uses facial recognition to screen for diseases or health and concludes that they do not. Finally, Part IV outlines what kind of restrictions are needed on use of this technology to protect patient’s privacy. Such restrictions could be located within GINA or HIPAA or could be part of a comprehensive regulation on facial recognition technology in general. Whichever form it takes, such protections are needed to ensure that what could be a very helpful technology is not used to discriminate against individuals or to reveal information to a person who may not seek such knowledge.
The Origins of the Developmental State in Taiwan: Science Policy and the Quest for Modernization by Megan J. Greene (review)

Taiwan, together with her three counterparts, Hong Kong, South Korea, and Singapore, saw growth rates so high during the Cold War that outsiders labeled them the “four little dragons” and sought to...