cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Generic Existence of Local Political Equilibrium

The paper presents a model of multi-party, “spatial” competition under proportional rule with both electoral and coalitional risk. Each party consists of a set of delegates with heterogeneous policy preferences. These delegates choose one delegate as leader or agent. This agent announces the policy declaration (or manifesto) to the electorate prior to the election. The choice of the agent by each party elite is assumed to be a local Nash equilibrium to a game form \( \tilde g\). This game form encapsulates beliefs of the party elite about the nature of both electoral risk and the post-election coalition bargaining game. It is demonstrated, under the assumption that \( \tilde g\) is smooth, that, for almost all parameter values, a locally isolated, local Nash equilibrium exists.
The Enhancement of Students Skill Aquisition Level at the Technical Colleges in Developing Countries Applying Dreyfus Model

Achievement can be attained when skills acquired are well demonstrated during working process. Technical college students are equipped with good skills when Dreyfus model that is centred on procedural skill process was applied to train students, by pre-testing and post-testing the students at Sapele, Asaba, Agbor and Orgor technical colleges all in Southern part of Nigeria were the research was conducted. This paper is focused on how to train and enhance student’s skill level in technical colleges to improve man power. One research question was raised to guide the study and one hypothesis to check for level of significance at 0.05. An instrument titled ‘Bleeding Skill Task Performance’ was designed to collect data, through observation of students in the workshop. Data collected were analysed using compare mean, and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) to check for level of significance. Findings were discussed and recommendations made to enhance student’s skill acquisition level. Based on these observations the researcher is encouraging and recommending to the Federal and State Government, Ministry of Education, Curriculum Planner, policy makers of educational programs in Nigeria to enforce the use and application of Dreyfus model of skill acquisition method in Nigerian technical colleges and every other institution of higher learning in Nigeria.
Competitive Drivers of Atrial Fibrillation: The Interplay Between Focal Drivers and Multiwavelet Reentry.

Background There is debate whether human atrial fibrillation is driven by focal drivers or multiwavelet reentry. We propose that the changing activation sequences surrounding a focal driver can at times self-sustain in the absence of that driver. Further, the relationship between focal drivers and surrounding chaotic activation is bidirectional; focal drivers can generate chaotic activation, which may affect the dynamics of focal drivers. Methods and results In a propagation model, we generated tissues that support structural micro-reentry and moving functional reentrant circuits. We qualitatively assessed (1) the tissue's ability to support self-sustaining fibrillation after elimination of the focal driver, (2) the impact that structural-reentrant substrate has on the duration of fibrillation, the impact that micro-reentrant (3) frequency, (4) excitable gap, and (5) exposure to surrounding fibrillation have on micro-reentry in the setting of chaotic activation, and finally the likelihood fibrillation will end in structural reentry based on (6) the distance between and (7) the relative lengths of an ablated tissue's inner and outer boundaries. We found (1) focal drivers produced chaotic activation when waves encountered heterogeneous refractoriness; chaotic activation could then repeatedly initiate and terminate micro-reentry. Perpetuation of fibrillation following elimination of micro-reentry was predicted by tissue properties. (2) Duration of fibrillation was increased by the presence of a structural micro-reentrant substrate only when surrounding tissue had a low propensity to support self-sustaining chaotic activation. Likelihood of micro-reentry around the structural reentrant substrate increased as (3) the frequency of structural reentry increased relative to the frequency of fibrillation in the surrounding tissue, (4) the excitable gap of micro-reentry increased, and (5) the exposure of the structural circuit to the surrounding tissue decreased. Likelihood of organized tachycardia following termination of fibrillation increased with (6) decreasing distance and (7) disparity of size between focal obstacle and external boundary. Conclusion Focal drivers such as structural micro-reentry and the chaotic activation they produce are continuously interacting with one another. In order to accurately describe cardiac tissue's propensity to support fibrillation, the relative characteristics of both stationary and moving drivers must be taken into account.
Examination of orthodontic expenditures and trends in the United States from 1996 to 2016: disparities across demographics and insurance payers.

Orthodontics prevent and treat facial, dental, and occlusal anomalies. Untreated orthodontic problems can lead to significant dental public health issues, making it important to understand expenditures for orthodontic treatment. This study examined orthodontic expenditures and trends in the United States over 2 decades. This study used data collected by the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey to examine orthodontic expenditures in the United States from 1996 to 2016. Descriptive statistics for orthodontic expenditures were computed and graphed across various groups. Trends in orthodontic expenditures were adjusted to the 2016 United States dollar to account for inflation and deflation over time. Sampling weights were applied in estimating per capita and total expenditures to account for non-responses in population groups. Total orthodontic expenditures in the United States almost doubled from $11.5 billion in 1996 to $19.9 billion in 2016 with the average orthodontic expenditure per person increasing from $42.69 in 1996 to $61.52 in 2016. Black individuals had the lowest per capita orthodontic visit expenditure at $30.35. Out-of-pocket expenses represented the highest total expenditure and although the amount of out-of-pocket expenses increased over the years, they decreased as a percentage of total expenditures. Public insurance increased the most over the study period but still accounted for the smallest percentage of expenditures. Over the course of the study, several annual decreases were interspersed with years of increased spending While government insurance expenditure increased over the study period, out of pocket expenditures remained the largest contributor. Annual decreases in expenditure associated with economic downturns and result from the reliance on out-of-pocket payments for orthodontic care. Differences in spending among groups suggest disparities in orthodontic care among the US population.
Representing and Retrieving Knowledge Artifacts

This paper recommends a structure to represent and a method to retrieve knowledge artifacts for repository-based knowledge management systems. We describe the representational structure and explain how it can be adopted. The structure includes a temporal dimension, which encourages knowledge sharing during knowledge creation. The retrieval method we present is designed to benefit from the representational structure and provides guidance to users on how many terms to enter when creating a query to search for knowledge artifacts. The combination of the structure and the retrieval method produces an adequate strategy for knowledge sharing that guides targeted users toward best results.
Modification of Surface and Tribological Properties of DLC Films by Adding Silver Content

The incorporation of silver into the diamond-like carbon (DLC) coatings has shown excellent potential in various applications; therefore the surface and tribological properties of silver-containing DLC thin films deserve to be investigated. In this study we have deposited silver-containing hydrogenated and hydrogen-free DLC coatings by plasma immersion ion implantation and deposition (PIII-D) methods. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and nano-scratch tests were used to study the surface and tribological properties. The silver incorporation had only slight effects on hydrogenated DLC coatings. However, the incorporation of silver has significant effect on hydrogen-free DLC of smoothing the surface and increasing the surface energy. Those effects have been illustrated and explained in the context of experimental results.
The Roles of First Language and Proficiency in L2 Processing of Spanish Clitics: Global Effects

We assessed the roles of first language (L1) and second language (L2) proficiency in the processing of preverbal clitics in L2 Spanish by considering the predictions of four processing theories—the Input Processing Theory, the Unified Competition Model, the Amalgamation Model, and the Associative-Cognitive CREED. We compared the performance of L1 English (typologically different from Spanish) to L1 Romanian (typologically similar to Spanish) speakers from various L2 Spanish proficiency levels on an auditory sentence-processing task. We found main effects of proficiency, condition, and L1 and an interaction between proficiency and condition. Although we did not find an interaction between L1 and condition, the L1 Romanians showed an overall advantage that may be attributable to structure-specific experience in the L1, raising new questions about how crosslinguistic differences influence the processing strategies learners apply to their L2.
Pd2.28(1)Zn10.37(1)Al0.35(1), a ternary γ-brass-type structure

Palladium zinc aluminium (2.28/10.37/0.35), Pd2.28(1)Zn10.37(1)Al0.35(1), represents the upper limit of Al substitution into the parent cubic γ-brass Pd2+xZn11−x. The structure can be described in terms of a 26-atom cluster consisting of an inner tetra­hedron (IT), an outer tetra­hedron (OT), an octa­hedron (OH) and a cubocta­hedron (CO), with the substituted Al atoms partially occupying the IT (.3m) and CO (..m) sites.
Q-A: Towards the Solution of Usability-Security Tension in User Authentication.

Users often choose passwords that are easy to remember but also easy to guess by attackers. Recent studies have revealed the vulnerability of textual passwords to shoulder surfing and keystroke loggers. It remains a critical challenge in password research to develop an authentication scheme that addresses these security issues, in addition to offering good memorability. Motivated by psychology research on humans' cognitive strengths and weaknesses, we explore the potential of cognitive questions as a way to address the major challenges in user authentication. We design, implement, and evaluate Q-A, a novel cognitive-question-based password system that requires a user to enter the letter at a given position in her answer for each of six personal questions (e.g. "What is the name of your favorite childhood teacher?"). In this scheme, the user does not need to memorize new, artificial information as her authentication secret. Our scheme offers 28 bits of theoretical password space, which has been found sufficient to prevent online brute-force attacks. Q-A is also robust against shoulder surfing and keystroke loggers. We conducted a multi-session in-lab user study to evaluate the usability of Q-A; 100% of users were able to remember their Q-A password over the span of one week, although login times were high. We compared our scheme with random six character passwords and found that login success rate in Q-A was significantly higher. Based on our results, we suggest that Q-A would be most appropriate in contexts that demand high security and where logins occur infrequently (e.g., online bank accounts).
Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP)

Molecular Characterization Applications in Environmental Microbiology Future Developments Keywords: bioreporters; biotechnology; green fluorescent protein
Small-Scale Roughness Effects on Laminar Separation

In this study an interacting boundary-layer (IBL) algorithm is used to investigate small-scale surface roughness effects on the laminar separation mechanism, where “small-scale” is intended to mean roughness fully contained within the boundary layer. Steady, laminar breakaway separation is computed for two-dimensional flow past a symmetric biconvex airfoil with small-scale roughness elements added to the surface. In this case the flow separation is generated at the trailing edge of a biconvex airfoil, but results are relevant to laminar separation points in general such as that occurring in the leading-edge region. The study is interested primarily in the laminar separation point, and not necessarily the entire bubble and downstream region. The use of the IBL method made it possible to achieve the required fine resolution in areas of interest. For some roughness geometries and flow conditions, up to 15000 grid points (over 4 million total grid points) were used in the streamwise direction to capture the resulting flow physics, which would still be time restrictive with a full Navier–Stokes algorithm. A number of different small-scale roughness configurations were evaluated including variations of roughness height, wavelength, distribution, and geometry. Results from this work show that small-scale roughness can alter the characteristics of the laminar separation point in low-speed flows.
Leukocyte function and nonmalignant leukocyte disorders

This review summarizes recent literature regarding the clinical and molecular features of nonmalignant leukocyte disorders in children. Leukocyte adhesion deficiency and chronic granulomatous disease, two inherited disorders of neutrophil function, continue to be the best-characterized disorders with respect to specific molecular defects. The underlying causes of severe congenital neutropenia and cyclic neutropenia remain elusive. Clinical features of immune-mediated neutropenias and their differential diagnoses are also reviewed.
A critical compilation of experimental data on spectral lines and energy levels of hydrogen, deuterium, and tritium

Abstract For more than 50 years, Charlotte Moore’s compilation of atomic energy levels and its subsequent revisions have been the standard source of reference data for the spectra of hydrogen and its isotopes. In those publications, theoretical data based on quantum-electrodynamic calculations have been given. This reflects the fact that the theory of the hydrogen spectrum has been perfected to an extent far exceeding the capabilities of the best measurements. However, rapid advances in the techniques of laser spectroscopy and optical frequency metrology have recently put experiments on a par with theory in terms of precision. This calls for construction of new comprehensive data sets for H, D, and T that summarize the latest experimental work and can be directly compared with the modern theoretical reference data. The present work compiles several tens of recent measurements of the hydrogen, deuterium, and tritium fine and hyperfine structure intervals and presents sets of energy levels and Ritz wavelengths derived from those measurements. Data exist for the fine structure of energy levels of hydrogen and deuterium up to principal quantum number n = 12. For higher lying levels, there are many observed lines with unresolved fine structure. From those observations, level centers (centers of the fine structure) are derived by a least-squares optimization, and Ritz wavelengths of series with upper levels up to n = 40 are obtained. For tritium, the n = 2 and 3 energy level intervals are derived from experimental observations.
Popolohuanone E, a Topoisomerase-II Inhibitor with Selective Lung Tumor Cytotoxicity from the Pohnpei Sponge Dysidea sp.

Abstract An oxidatively-dimerized arenarol derivative, popolohuanone E ( 1 ), was isolated from a Pohnpei sponge. The compound is a potent inhibitor of topoisomerase-II and shows selective cytoxicity against the A549 non-small cell human lung cancer cell line.
Effect and applications of patterned laser illumination on superconducting films

Patterned laser illumination incident upon superconducting films is shown to be capable of creating dynamic superconducting-normal ($S\ensuremath{-}N$) interfaces with almost any desired pattern. The width of such a dynamic interface for a sharp illumination edge is shown to be the effective quasiparticle diffusion length. In the limit of strong phonon trapping in the film, the effective quasiparticle diffusion length approaches the thermal healing length obtained from the heat diffusion model. However, this is not the appropriate limit in general for thin films immersed in liquid helium. The ability to create dynamic $S\ensuremath{-}N$ patterns can be used in probing spatial inhomogeneity of superconducting films and tunnel junctions. An Al-${\mathrm{Al}}_{2}$${\mathrm{O}}_{3}$-Pb junction was used to demonstrate the technique. For the first time, the spatial distribution of tunneling probability was obtained through the measurements of local Josephson current. It is shown that this is a much more reliable technique than attempting to infer the tunneling probability from the excess quasiparticle tunneling current due to a local laser or electron beam excitation.
High Speed Grinding of Silicon Nitride With Electroplated Diamond Wheels, Part 2: Wheel Topography and Grinding Mechanisms

This is the second in a series of two papers concerned with high speed grinding of silicon nitride with electroplated diamond wheels. In the first article (ASME J. Manuf. Sci. Eng., 122, pp. 32-41), it was shown that grinding of silicon nitride is accompanied by dulling of the abrasive grains and a significant increase in the grinding forces and power. High wheel speed caused more wheel wear, which was attributed to a longer accumulated sliding length between the abrasive grains and the workpiece. This second paper is concerned with the progressive change in wheel topography during grinding and how it affects the grinding process. A statistical model is developed to characterize the wheel topography during grinding in terms of active cutting grains and wear flat area. According to this model, continued grinding is accompanied by an increase in both the number of active grains and the wear flat area on the wheel surface as the wheel wears down. The measured increase in grinding forces and power was found to be proportional to the wear flat area, which implies a constant average contact pressure and friction coefficient between the wear flats and the workpiece. Increasing the wheel speed from 85 to 149 m/s significantly reduced the contact pressure, which may be attributed to a reduction of the interference angle, but had almost no effect on the attritious wear rate of the diamond abrasive. Therefore, more rapid wear of the diamond wheel at higher wheel speeds due to a longer sliding length may be offset by reduced contact pressures and lower grinding forces.
Operative repair of coarctation of the aorta in infancy: Results with and without ventricular septal defect

Coarctation of the aorta (CA) presenting in infancy is a life-threatening condition, especially if associated with intracardiac left-to-right shunts. Between 1971 and 1980, 51 infants with symptomatic CA have been diagnosed and treated. Ventricular septal defect (VSD) was present in 18 patients and patent ductus arteriosus in 24. End-to-end repair was performed in 20 patients, 17 (85%) of whom were long-term survivors. Subclavian flap angioplasty repair was used in 28 patients, of whom 25 (89%) were long-term survivors. During long-term follow-up 6 patients (35%) who underwent end-to-end repair had recurrent CA, whereas only 3 patients (12%) who underwent subclavian flap angioplasty had recurrent CA (p less than 0.05). The mortality rate in patients with associated VSD was higher (4 of 18, 22%). Pulmonary trunk banding with subsequent VSD repair was associated with a better survival (13 of 14 patients, 90%) than when banding was not performed (2 of 5 patients) (p less than 0.05). These results suggest subclavian flap angioplasty is the preferred treatment for symptomatic CA occurring in infancy. Concomitant pulmonary trunk banding in patients with VSD can be performed with the expectation of a lower mortality at subsequent VSD repair.
H2O plasma modification of track-etched polymer membranes for increased wettability and improved performance

An inductively-coupled H2O vapor plasma was used to modify the surface of polycarbonate and polyethylene terephthalate track-etched membranes with the goal of permanently increasing the hydrophilicity of the membrane surfaces. Contact angle measurements on freshly treated and aged samples confirmed the wettability of the membrane surfaces was significantly improved by plasma treatment. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy analyses revealed increased oxygen incorporation onto the surface of the membranes, without any damage to the surface or pore structure. Contact angle measurements on a membrane treated in a stacked assembly suggest the plasma effectively modified the entire pore cross section. Plasma treatment also increased water flux through the membranes, with results from plasma modified membranes matching those from commercially available hydrophilic membranes (treated with wetting agent). Mechanisms for the observed modification are discussed in terms of OH and O radicals implanting oxygen functionality into the polymers.
THE TAKEOVER MECHANISM AS AN EFFICIENCY ENFORCER: THE CASE OF BANK HOLDING COMPANIES.

The importance of the market for corporate control as a disciplining device has received considerable research interest in recent years. Since the advent of event study methodology pioneered by Fama, Fisher, Jensen and Roll (1969), and the availability of machine readable returns data from the Center of Research on Security Prices, the effects of various control related corporate events have been well documented. Jensen and Ruback (1983) in their review of the empirical literature on the market for corporate control report that the findings in general support the hypothesis that outside takeover mechanisms do act efficiently to limit managerial departures from the objective of maximising the economic well‐being of its shareholders. They further point out that studies using the event study methodology cannot distinguish between the different sources of gains in the takeover process, namely those due to synergies, or those due to lack of efficient management in the acquired firm.
Ecolabels for Passenger Transportation: Understanding Motorcoach Company Receptiveness to a Pilot Green Certification Program

In 2009, an internet survey was administered to members of two motorcoach associations to examine sustainability in the passenger transportation sector in the context of environmental certification. Higher levels of company leader familiarity with green practices, more positive company leader attitudes towards these practices, and more green practices within a company were found among groups of company leaders who indicated a greater willingness to participate in a pilot certification program. Additionally, significant positive correlations were found between company leader familiarity with environmental practices, company leader attitudes towards environmental practices, and the number of environmental practices at companies.
A distributed multi-agent system for collaborative information management and sharing

In this paper, we present DIAMS, a system of distributed, collaborative agents to help users access, manage, share and exchange information. A DIAMS personal agent helps its owner find information most relevant to current needs. It provides tools and utilities for users to manage their information repositories with dynamic organization and virtual views. Flexible hierarchical display is integrated with indexed query search-to support effective information access. Automatic indexing methods are employed to support user queries and communication between agents. Contents of a repository are kept in object-oriented storage to facilitate information sharing. Collaboration between users is aided by easy sharing utilities as well as automated information exchange. Matchmaker agents are designed to establish connections between users with similar interests and expertise. DIAMS agents provide needed services for users to share and learn information from one another on the World Wide Web.
EFFECTS OF METHOTREXATE ON PROLIFERATION OF HUMAN KERATINOCYTES IN VITRO

Normal human keratinocytes, propagated as epithelial outgrowths in vitro, were exposed to different concentrations of methotrexate (MTX) for different periods of time. After a 1-hr exposure, DNA synthesis was inhibited in a reversible manner. No change in the mitotic index was observed. After a 6-hr exposure, both DNA synthesis and mitosis were inhibited, again in a reversible fashion. Prolonged exposure (24 hr) resulted in irreversible mitotic inhibition even when followed by recovery periods of 168 hr. The effective concentrations of MTX in vitro were similar to those described previously in vivo.
On the evolution of turbulent scales in the wake of a wind turbine model

Wind-tunnel experimental data from the wake of a model wind turbine were used to provide a scale-by-scale energetic description of the flow at various locations downwind of the turbine. Pre-multiplied spectra of the streamwise and vertical velocity components were considered for the analysis and compared with those obtained in the base flow (smooth wall condition). Results showed that in the relatively high-frequency range, the turbine induces strong turbulent energy into the wake, which is an indicator of its active character. However, large scales and very large scales were observed to be dampened in the wake close to the wall, implying that the turbine also acts as a high-pass filter. These two distinct processes occurring in the wake suggest to conceptualize and model the turbine as an ‘active filter’. Various terms in the turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) equation were also estimated at different locations to study the physical processes modulating the enhanced levels of turbulence intensity observed in...
Methodological considerations in research on the prevalence of child sexual abuse

Recent studies with nonclinical populations have yielded widely varying estimates of the prevalence of child sexual abuse. This paper focuses on four representative studies, describing how differences in methodology and sample characteristics may contribute to the variation in prevalence rates. Two aspects of data collection appear to be the most significant factors accounting for discrepant findings. First, the use of face-to-face interviews is associated with much higher prevalence rates than the use of self-administered questionnaires. Second, higher prevalence rates are reported in studies that use multiple questions to ask about specific types of abusive sexual behavior. Variation in the age range of subjects is an additional factor that may also have an effect on prevalence rates. The evidence reviewed points to several aspects of methodology and sample characteristics that do not seem to influence prevalence findings. These are the use of random sampling techniques, the area of the country in which the study is conducted, the educational level of subjects, and the ethnic composition of the sample.
Voice disorders in children with classic galactosemia

Children with classic galactosemia are at risk for motor speech disorders resulting from disruptions in motor planning and programming (childhood apraxia of speech or CAS) or motor execution (dysarthria). In the present study of 33 children with classic galactosemia, 21% were diagnosed with CAS, 3% with ataxic dysarthria, and 3% with mixed CAS-dysarthria. Voice disorders due to laryngeal insufficiency were common in children with dysarthria and co-occurred with CAS. Most (58%) of the children with classic galactosemia had decreased respiratory-phonatory support for speech, and 33% had disturbed vocal quality that was indicative of cerebellar dysfunction. Three children, two diagnosed with CAS and one not diagnosed with a motor speech disorder, had vocal tremors. Treatment of voice dysfunction in neurogenic speech disorders is discussed.
Capturing single L-type Ca2 + channel function with optics

Advances in imaging technology have allowed optical analysis of Ca(2+)-permeable ion channel activity. Here, we briefly review novel developments in optical recording of L-type voltage-dependent Ca(2+) channel (LTCC) function with high spatial and temporal resolution. Underlying principles supporting the use of total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) microscopy for optical measurement of channel activity and new functional characteristics of LTCCs revealed by application of this approach are discussed. Visualization of Ca(2+) influx through single LTCCs ("LTCC sparklets") has demonstrated that channel activity is regionally heterogeneous and that clustered channels are capable of operating in a cooperative, or "coupled" manner. In light of these findings, we describe a current molecular model for the local control of LTCC activity and coupled gating in physiological and pathological contexts. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: 12th European Symposium on Calcium.
Impact of Joint Impairment on Longitudinal Disability in Elderly Persons

Recent longitudinal data indicating that arthritis is a major contributor to disability in elderly persons are based on self-reported diagnostic information. This longitudinal study included baseline physical examinations of joints of 541 persons over age 60. Previous results from a cross-sectional multivariate model of disability in this sample found that joint impairment (and, its absence, arthritis pain) explained a significant proportion of variance in overall disability. We have retested this model using generalized estimation equations (GEE) analysis to estimate the effect of joint impairment and arthritis pain on baseline and Year 2 disability. Findings indicate that baseline joint impairment contributes substantially to longitudinal disability. If direct measures of baseline joint impairment are unavailable, concurrent self-reported arthritis pain also predicts longitudinal disability well. These findings indicate that longitudinal studies should monitor arthritis pain and that symptomatic arthritis is a risk factor for future disability.
Optical properties of evaporated platinum films in the vacuum ultraviolet from 220 Å to 150 Å

Measurements of the optical properties of Pt films deposited on either hot or room temperature substrates have shown that the wavelength dependence of the optical properties is not altered significantly by the substrate temperature. There is a change, however, in the values of the extinction coefficient which increase with increasing substrate temperature. This is also true of the reflectance values. In addition, Pt films deposited on heated substrates have better adhesion, are more resistant to abrasion damage, and have less internal stresses. If, however, Pt is to be deposited on a replica diffraction grating, it must be done at room temperature to prevent damage to the grating.
Eigenvalue sensitivity and state-variable selection

The first part of this paper presents a new measure of sensitivity specifically applicable to the realization of a linear discrete system on a digital computer. It is also shown that the sensitivity of the eigenvalues to parameter inaccuracies in the realization depends strongly on the choice of state variables. From these considerations, a realization is obtained which is "best" for a large class of systems of interest with regard to minimizing storage requirements, arithmetic operations, parameter accuracy, and eigenvalue sensitivity. The second half of the paper considers the very practical problem of determining the number of bits accuracy required in the computer-stored parameters of the system to achieve satisfactory performance. For the realization found to be a best compromise, equations are obtained for determining these bit requirements. Examples are given showing the application of this realization to the computer implementation of a discrete filter, and a comparison is given to other possible realizations.
The Prevalence and Severity of Enamel Fluorosis in North American Children

The question considered in this review is the extent to which changes in the prevalence or severity of enamel fluorosis have occurred over the last half-century. Emphasis is given to a review of those studies in which subjects are drinking water that is fluoride deficient and those in which subjects are drinking optimally fluoridated water, either adjusted or natural. Trends in fluorosis were examined using two definitions of fluorosis (definite and any signs) and three types of comparisons--comparisons of pooled estimates from all available studies that include data from different communities and time periods, comparisons of estimates from the same communities at different times, and comparisons of estimates from selected studies in the early years of fluorosis research with results of the US National Fluorosis Survey done by the National Institute of Dental Research. A clear increase in fluorosis among populations drinking community water that contains less than 0.3 ppm fluoride was found. Results of the comparisons using studies with Dean's Index pooled at different time points, comparisons in the same communities over time, and comparisons of prevalence found in selected communities before fluoride was widely available with the National Fluorosis Survey all support this conclusion. An increase in the prevalence of fluorosis in those drinking optimally fluoridated water likely has occurred as well; however, evidence for such a trend is not as clear as for fluoride deficient communities because of mixed results depending on the type of comparison. The majority of fluorosis cases continue to be mild and seem of little esthetic consequence for most of the public or dental profession. But a few cases of more severe fluorosis can be found now in some communities. Because the prevalence of fluorosis is now higher than 50 years ago, we can conclude that fluoride availability to the developing enamel during critical periods when enamel is at risk of fluorosis has increased in North American children.
A chimeric connexin forming gap junction hemichannels

Connexins are the subunits of gap junction channels which connect neighboring cells. With the exception of lens connexins, they usually do not form open hemichannels in the cell membrane of single cells. Here we describe a chimeric connexin consisting of cx32 where the first extracellular loop sequence is replaced by the corresponding cx43 sequence. This chimera, cx32E143, forms conventional gap junction channels in the paired oocyte assay. In addition cx32E143 induces a membrane conductance in single oocytes. This membrane conductance is voltage dependent and is similarly sensitive to CO2 as are gap junction channels formed by the chimera or by wild-type cx32. These data suggest that cx32E143 forms patent hemichannels in the plasma membrane of single oocytes. This conclusion is further supported by the observation that oocytes expressing cx32E143 take up from the bath medium tracer molecules known to pass through gap junction channels.
Phase-Phase Switching Surges on 500-kV Transformer-Terminated Lines, Part I: 500-kV Circuit-Breaker Operation

An investigation of the effects of system and transformer parameters on phase-phase switching surges on transformer-terminated 500-kV lines was conducted on a transient network analyzer. The results of this study are presented, including surge magnitudes, waveshapes, and the line-neutral polarity components comprising the phase-phase surges. Typical surge distribution curves are also discussed.
Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2 Restructured Form (MMPI-2-RF) Scales as predictors of psychiatric diagnoses

The Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2 Restructured Form (MMPI-2-RF) is an alternative version of the MMPI-2 and is useful for the differential diagnosis of psychiatric disorders. This study sought to assess the relationship between MMPI-2 Scale scores and psychiatric diagnoses, and to identify the scales that best predicted that a diagnosis would be assigned. The sample was comprised of participants who were administered the MMPI-2 between 2001 and 2010 at a university-based psychological services center, and participants were divided into diagnostic categories based on Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-Fourth Edition, Text Revision diagnoses. Categories with enough participants to conduct statistical analyses were examined; these categories included participants who were diagnosed with substance-related disorders, depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, and participants who were not given a psychiatric diagnosis. The Substance-Related Disorders category was not significantly correlated with any scale but was best predicted by Cynicism (RC3) and Substance Abuse (SUB). The Depressive Disorders category was significantly correlated with Emotional/Internalizing Dysfunction (EID), Demoralization (RCd), Low Positive Emotions (RC2), and Self-Doubt (SFD) Scales, and was best predicted by RCd. The Anxiety Disorders category did not significantly correlate with any scale but was best predicted by Infrequent Somatic Responses (Fs) and Gastrointestinal Complaints (GIC). The No Diagnosis category was negatively correlated with Infrequent Responses-Revised (F-r), EID, RCd, Helplessness/Hopelessness (HLP), and Cognitive Complaints (COG), and was best predicted by EID. This study offers important information regarding scales that best predict psychiatric disorders and adds to the research that suggests that the MMPI-2-RF can aid clinicians in the differentiation of psychiatric disorders.
Aggregate industrial energy consumer response to wholesale prices in the restructured Texas electricity market

Abstract The aggregate response of consumers to wholesale price signals is very limited in the restructured Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) market. An overall average own-price elasticity of demand of − 0.000008 for industrial energy consumers served at transmission voltage is estimated using a Symmetric Generalized McFadden cost function model. To date, ERCOT has sought to promote demand response to price signals without reliance on “stand alone” demand response programs, but with a market structure that is designed to facilitate economic demand response. This very limited responsiveness to wholesale price signals may prove problematic in light of policy decisions to pursue an “energy only” resource adequacy mechanism for ERCOT.
Formation of explosive compounds in acid-contaminated leaded rubber gloves Part II: Experimental verification

Part 1 of this paper theoretically analyzed the possible reaction products that can form when leaded rubber gloves are brought in contact with nitric acid. The analysis showed that while the formation of a lead fulminate compound was unlikely, other potentially explosive compounds could form in the acid-contaminated, leaded, rubber glove system. Part II describes the experimental details and the results obtained when the leaded rubber glove samples were reacted with nitric acid. The characterization and some identification of the unstable compound formed by the reaction has been carried out, and its explosive behavior has been measured. The explosive system has two components: the water-insoluble part, which is mainly organic material; and the water-soluble part, which is mainly the lead compound, Pb(NO3)2. The components are easily separable. These two materials are not explosive individually even after heating. However, in the presence of both the components, an explosion occurs upon heating or upon impact. The explosive behavior of the two component system has been measured. This behavior supports the ideas that these two components interact during the heating period to produce the explosive reaction, and that the oxygen present in lead nitrate is involved in the explosion reaction. It is recommended that a thorough water wash of the nitric-acid-contaminated rubber gloves at room temperature be done to eliminate the explosive system.
Fruit and vegetable consumption and food values: National patterns in the United States by Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program eligibility and cooking frequency.

Abstract Background More frequent cooking at home may help improve diet quality and be associated with food values, particularly for individuals participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Objective To examine patterns of fruit and vegetable consumption and food values among adults (aged 20 and older) in the United States, by SNAP participation and household cooking frequency. Methods Analysis of cross-sectional 24-hour dietary recall data obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2007–2010 (N = 9560). Results A lower percentage of SNAP participants consumed fruit (total: 35% vs. 46%, p = 0.001; fresh: 30% vs. 41%, p 6 times/week was associated with greater vegetable consumption compared to cooking Conclusions Fruit and vegetable consumption in the United States is low regardless of cooking frequency. Efforts to improve diet quality should consider values on which food purchases are based.
Visions: New techniques and technologies in statistics

This paper attempts to paint a futurist vision for data analysts and in doing so discusses some of the tools and techniques likely to be used. A major premise of this vision is that mathematical statistics like classical mechanics is essentially a completed discipline. Moreover, that changes in the nature, modes of collection, and scale of data imply new tools and techniques are inevitable. Complexity of algorithms and data structures imply an increased focus on algorithmic efficiency and, to some extent, more automated procedures. Suggestions for advancement in theory are made with respect to data mining, visualization and quantization methods. Suggestions are also made on likely architectures for digital text and data libraries, for modes of accessing distributed databases, and for the implications on collaboration.
Evaluation of a Stuttering Treatment Based on Reduction of Short Phonation Intervals

This paper reports the results of an efficacy study of a stuttering treatment program known as Modifying Phonation Intervals (MPI), which trains stuttering speakers to reduce the frequency of relat...
Failure at the transition of care: Challenges in the discharge of the vulnerable elderly patient

The case of an elderly patient with mild dementia and severe depression is reviewed including analysis of the barriers to successful transition that led to readmission. Situations likely to result in failed transitions include poor social support, discharge during times when ancillary services are unavailable, uncertain medication reconciliation, depression, and patients' cognitive limitations. Evidence suggests deficits in communication by hospital physicians to primary care providers occur commonly but this is only one of many systems barriers to successful discharge. Review of the literature reveals interventions such as involvement of advance practice nurses or family members in the transition may overcome some of the difficulties inherent in discharge of the vulnerable geriatric patient. Weekend discharges present unique challenges and potential solutions are explored. This case offers the opportunity to review the elements necessary for success and insight into the systems limitations which underlie failed transitions.
Redesigning Mechanical Systems for Low Wear Using System Dynamics Modeling

This work describes a method of minimizing wear and extending the life of machinery components and large, complex machine structures by controlling the overall system dynamics. The method consists of the following steps : first, developing a system dynamics model for the entire machine structure using available rigid multi-body dynamic analysis computer codes ; second, obtaining dynamic performance data from the system dynamics model for each sliding contact in the actual machine, and feeding this information into a suitable wear model which is either being used or developed for the particular material combination ; third, matching the results of the wear prediction with actual machine wear inspection data ; and last and most important, returning to the dynamic analysis model and modifying or redesigning the machine to minimize the intensity of the system dynamics, thus extending the wear life of the components. The method is being developed for application to large, complex machines which have numerous sliding contacts. Many of these contacts are at junctions between subcomponents assembled together. These junctions are often designed to accommodate relative motion due to vibration or thermal mismatches. After the initial analyses have been done, both minor and major mechanical design and material changes must be investigated to determine how effectively these could reduce wear. Each successive configuration can be evaluated using the dynamic analysis model. Application of this approach to the mechanical design of a gas turbine combustor reduced the noise level of the entire system and tripled the average machine life.
Cellular variations in heterotrimeric G protein localization and expression in rat pituitary.

The secretory cells of the anterior pituitary are regulated by hypothalamic and target endocrine hormones. In many cases, intracellular signaling after ligand binding to cell surface receptors is mediated by heterotrimeric G proteins. In this study, cells from the rat pituitary and two pituitary cell lines (GH3 and AtT-20 cells) were doubly labeled by immunofluorescence with specific rabbit antibodies to the alpha-subunits of G proteins (Gs, Gi1-3, or Gq) and monoclonal antibodies against pituitary hormones (GH, PRL, beta LH, beta TSH, or beta FSH) to identify specific cell types. Gs, Gi, and Gq were detected in all secretory types, but differences were found in their levels of expression and cellular distribution. The cell periphery was the predominant site of localization of all these G proteins. In addition, both Gi3 and at least one member of the Gq family were seen by immunofluorescence on intracellular sites typical of the Golgi region. By immunogold labeling, alpha i3 was localized to membranes of ...
Dynamic Energy Management for the Smart Grid With Distributed Energy Resources

Due to its salient features including real time pricing and distributed generation, the smart grid (SG) poses great challenges for energy management in the system. In this paper, we investigate optimal energy management for the SG, taking into consideration unpredictable load demands and distributed energy resources. Both delay intolerant (DI) and delay tolerant (DT) load demands are studied. We aim to optimally schedule the usage of all the energy resources in the system and minimize the long-term time averaged expected total cost of supporting all users' load demands. In particular, we first formulate an optimization problem, which turns out to be a time-coupling problem and prohibitively expensive to solve. Then, we reformulate the problem using Lyapunov optimization theory and develop a dynamic energy management scheme that can dynamically solve the problem in each time slot based on the current system state only. We are able to obtain both a lower and an upper bound on the optimal result of the original optimization problem. Furthermore, in the case of both DI and DT load demands, we show that DT load demands are guaranteed to be served within user-defined deadlines. Extensive simulations are conducted to validate the efficiency of the developed schemes.