cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
WSN18-3: Disjoint Multipath Routing in Dual Homing Networks using Colored Trees

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) employed in monitoring applications require data collected by the sensors to be deposited at specific nodes, referred to as drains. To improve robustness in data collection, we consider a dual homing network in which two drains are employed and every node is required to send data to the two drains over link- or node-disjoint paths. One approach to reduce the number of routing table entries at a node is to construct two trees, namely red and blue, each rooted at a particular drain such that the paths from any node to the two drains on the trees are link- or node-disjoint. In this paper, we develop the first distributed algorithm for constructing colored trees in a dual-homing network whose running time is linear in the number of links. In addition, we show that the average path length may be optimized by employing the generalized low-point concept rather than the traditional low-point concept.
A comparison of smoothing approaches for angle measurement

For high-resolution active direction finding of completely correlated targets, one can use two approaches, i.e. frequency-domain smoothing and non-frequency-domain smoothing, such as spatial smoothing, or a multidimensional search of signal-subspace. A performance comparison of the two approaches is presented for the fluctuating target cases under an equal transmitted-energy constraint. both theoretical analysis and simulations are used to study the performance of the detection (determination of number of targets) and angle estimation. It is found that the frequency-domain smoothing can significantly outperform the non-frequency-domain smoothing under the equal transmitted-energy constraint. >
Enamel Fluoride Uptake and Acid Resistance in Subjects with High and Low Experimental Cariogenicity

The response of bovine enamel to intra-oral cariogenic environments was studied in human volunteers. Enamel slabs were mounted in dentures and treated with either 10% sucrose or 10% sucrose plus 20 ppm fluoride mouthrinses for one minute five times daily. After one week, these enamel slabs were studied for change in surface hardness and for the degree of fluoride incorporation, or for their resistance to acid acquired by the intra-oral exposure. Among the eight subjects, those with the highest experimental cariogenicity exhibited the highest benefit of enamel from the fluoride in terms of fluoride incorporation and in their resistance to the subsequent acid test. The results suggest that cariogenic activity and fluoride will synergistically improve the tooth resistance to subsequent attack, apparently through mineral exchange that favors the formation of acid-resistant minerals with high fluoride content within enamel lesions.
SOUND TRANSMISSION THROUGH PERIODICALLY STIFFENED CYLINDRICAL SHELLS

A relatively long circular cylindrical shell stiffened by periodically deployed stiffeners is found in many practical applications such as the aircraft fuselage. For the sound transmission analysis of such a system, not only structural interactions between the shell and stiffeners but also vibro-acoustic interactions between the structure and acoustic media have to be considered. By idealizing the system as an infinitely long cylinder subjected to a plane wave incidence, an exact solution is obtained for the first time for this type of problem. In the analysis, the solution is obtained in a series form by expanding the system responses in terms of the space harmonics of the stiffener spacing. Characteristics of the system responses and effects of important design parameters are studied using the transmission losses calculated from the analysis.
Open heart operations in the elderly: Changing risk parameters

Greater numbers of people are living longer, causing a concurrent change in the population of patients who require open heart operations. One question that needs to be addressed is the effect of age on surgical outcome. Current statistics suggest that in 15 to 20 years there will be 12 million people in the United States more than 80 years of age. We examined risk factors for outcome in two retrospective studies of advanced-age patients requiring cardiac operations. The first group of 100 patients more than 75 years of age had valve replacement. Early mortality was acceptable at 3%. However, mortality at 2 years increased to about 25%, due largely to complications related to anticoagulation. Quality of life was dramatically improved in survivors. These data suggest that implantation of a tissue valve may be the most beneficial option in patients aged more than 70 years. In the second group, we used multivariate analysis to define the factors contributing to early mortality in 133 patients aged 80 years or older who required cardiac operations from 1988 to 1990. This analysis showed that early mortality increased significantly in patients in New York Heart Association class IV or in those who required postoperative blood transfusion. These data suggest the need to prevent excessive bleeding and to assess patients on an individual basis.
The metabolism of 6-methylaminopurine in Salmonella typhimurium

Abstract 6-Methylaminopurine-free base is efficiently utilized by growing cultures of various mutants of Salmonella typhimurium for the biosynthesis of polynucleotide purines. In the “purineless” mutant Ade-11 it competes favorably with adenine, guanine and hypoxanthine in this regard, and in two specific adenine-dependent mutants effects a unique growth increment beyond that attainable on adenine. It is suggested that 6-methylaminopurine-free base enters the normal polynucleotide synthetic pathway via direct conversion to a 5′-nucleotide, and demethylamination to IMP.
Thermal response of precast concrete sandwich walls with various steel connectors for architectural buildings in cold regions

Abstract This paper presents the thermal response of a precast concrete sandwich wall system subjected to a typical cold region environment, including an exposure temperature of −30 °C for 12 h. Three types of thermal bridges are used for mechanically connecting two concrete layers and an embedded insulation layer. Each test category encompasses single or multiple connectors and their thermal transmittance characteristics are measured. Three-dimensional finite element models are developed to predict the heat transfer of the connectors across the insulation (i.e., thermal response rate and heat flux). Three existing design approaches are evaluated for applicability and limitation. The geometric configuration of the connectors and their interaction are important parameters affecting the thermal efficiency of the sandwich system. Connector types may be determined based on the thickness of an insulation layer. The effect of heat flux concentrations should explicitly be taken into consideration for practice and the existing design methods should be refined accordingly.
A REVIEW AND EVALUATION OF THE PSYCHOMETRIC PROPERTIES OF THE JOB DIAGNOSTIC SURVEY

Empirical research is reviewed to evaluate the test-retest reliability, internal consistency, scale discrimination, factorial validity, convergent validity across raters and methods, and methods bias of the Job Diagnostic Survey (JDS) of Hackman and Oldham (1975, 1980). The review shows that the JDS has important psychometric limitations, but is able–when used properly–to provide useful information about perceived job properties. Suggestions are made for improving the JDS and for developing additional instruments that assess a broader array of job dimensions and that assess them more objectively than current measures. Job characteristics researchers need a diverse portfolio of measures to accomplish different purposes.
Scattering by an infinite periodic array of thin conductors on a dielectric sheet

The solution to the problem of scattering of a plane wave by an infinite periodic array of thin conductors on a dielectric slab is formulated in this paper. Numerical results are given as well as a comparison of this theory with experimental data.
Social‐Cognitive and Situational Influences on the Use of Face‐Saving Persuasive Strategies

This study investigated the influences of three situational variables and interpersonal construct differentiation on the use of face-saving strategies. Speakers carried out role-play persuasive tasks that were varied on the dimensions of speaker power, request magnitude, and familiarity. The resulting messages were coded for the dominant levels of autonomy granting and positive face support provided to the target. Speakers provided more face support when they had relatively little power. Furthermore, this effect was stronger for positive face support than for autonomy granting. Speakers also granted more autonomy when making large requests, especially when they had relatively little power. With respect to familiarity, speakers provided less face support to familiar targets when small requests were involved but provided more face support when making large requests. The study also found several interactions between construct differentiation and the situational factors. The theoretical implications of these findings are discussed.
A comparison of the performance of commercial ultrasound breast scanners versus a laboratory instrument

This article compared the ability of four dedicated ultrasound breast scanners to display the texture, location, size, and shape of pseudo-tumors, cysts, dilated ducts, and microcalcifications in a breast phantom. Each instrument required adjustment to display the structures in the breast phantom because of the difference in acoustic impedance of the materials in the phantom versus tissue. Two Technicare instruments, one Life Imaging instrument, and a laboratory designed and constructed ultrasound breast scanner were used in this study. The laboratory instrument was able to visualize the targets with simple sector scanning. One Technicare instrument that could only perform simple sector scanning could only visualize a target just below the nipple, i.e., a dilated duct. The second Technicare instrument, which had a modified arc scan, could visualize all the targets except a 12.7-mm cyst, 9 cm posterior to the nipple. The Life Imaging unit could not detect the targets with sector scanning but could when compound scanning was used. Both Technicare and Life Imaging breast ultrasonoscopes produced a greater degree of artifact production and distortion of the textural properties of the phantom than the laboratory instrument. None of these instruments could unequivocally identify any of the microcalcifications, but this may be due to other minute loud echo-producing structures within the phantom.
Autofocusing circular synthetic aperture sonar imagery using phase corrections modeled as generalized cones

Circular synthetic aperture sonar (CSAS) is a coherent aperture synthesis technique that utilizes backscattered acoustic information from an encircled scene to generate information rich, high-resolution imagery. The aperture length required for image synthesis is much longer than in its linear synthetic aperture sonar counterpart and can result in challenging phase delay and navigation estimation constraints. Residual uncorrected phase errors manifest as focus aberrations in reconstructed CSAS imagery. This paper demonstrates that phase error in image patches can be approximated as an aspect variant linear phase shift representable as a generalized cone in wave-number space. If the geometry of the generalized cone is known, it can be applied as the spectral phase of an inverse filter for aberration correction. A method is derived for reconstructing the error cone geometry from independent estimates of its local curvatures, which are found via a series of one-dimensional line searches that maximize the focus of CSAS sub-aperture images. This approach is applied to real and simulated CSAS data containing aperture distortions, and the results successfully demonstrate estimation and correction of the underlying focus aberrations.
Continuous countercurrent solvent sublation for the removal of hydrophobic organics from water

Abstract Solvent sublation in a continuous countercurrent mode for the removal of three hydrophobic organic compounds (viz. pentachlorophenol, 2,4,6-trichlorophenol and naphthalene) from water into mineral oil was investigated. Mathematical simulations of experimental results were achieved using a steady state “stagewise” model along with the determination of key hydrodynamic parameters for the bubble column such as bubble radius and number of equilibrium stages. The importance of using bubbles of small radii even at high air flow rates was apparent.
Managerial Role Motivation Training

The motivation to manage is a key factor influencing the energy and effort people bring to the job. A review of a training approach outlines action that can be taken.
The Angry Dying Patient

Over 25 years ago, Kubler-Ross identified anger as a predictable part of the dying process. When the dying patient becomes angry in the clinical setting, all types of communication become strained. Physicians can help the angry dying patient through this difficult time by using 10 rules of engagement. When physicians engage and empathize with these patients, they improve the patient's response to pain and they reduce patient suffering. When physicians educate patients on their normal responses to dying and enlist them in the process of family reconciliation, they can impact the end-of-life experience in a positive way.
Media Ethics and Law: Together, but Unequal

Mathewson, J. (2014). Law and ethics for today's journalist: A concise guide. Armonk, NY: M.E. Sharpe. 222 pp., (Pbk).It is a challenge to keep up with journalism education in the 21st century. Edu...
Strychnine and the Inhibition of Previous Performance

The injection of strychnine sulfate into rats inhibits a hurdle-crossing response. Hurdle-crossing tends to decrease with increasing strychnine doses. The data are interpreted as being consistent with consolidation theory.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Near-Infrared (NIR) Dye-Herceptin Conjugates as Photoacoustic Computed Tomography (PCT) Probes for HER2 Expression in Breast Cancer

We are evaluating PCT imaging in conjunction with NIR dye labeled Herceptin antibody for noninvasive assessment of HER2 expression in tumors. Herceptin was labeled with Alexa Fluor-750 amine reactive dye for characterization of photoacoustic and fluorescence signals. Measurements were performed in solution and after incubation in cultured cell lines that were positive or negative in expression of HER2. The dye to antibody ratio was controlled to achieve a broad range of degree of labeling (DOL = 2 to 15). Photoacoustic signal intensity of Herceptin-dye conjugates in solution increased with increases over the entire DOL range studied. In contrast, fluorescence exhibited significant quenching for higher DOL. In vitro PCT imaging of the labeled HER2 (+) and HER2 (-) cells revealed the targeting specificity of the NIR dye labeled Herceptin. In HER2 (+) cells lines, photoacoustic signal intensity gradually increased with increasing DOL and with increasing number of cells. These results demonstrate that PCT-based measurement of HER2 receptor binding using NIR dye labeled Herceptin is feasible. The absence of a quenching effect with increased DOL advantages this method over traditional methods based on fluorescence measurement.
Transplant for CLL: still an option?

In this issue of Blood , Dreger et al present a statement from the European Research Initiative on CLL (ERIC), providing a framework for discussing the role of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in the era of novel targeted agents for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL).[1][1
Rhytidectomy: The multiplane approach

This paper addresses the technique and experience of the multiplane face-lift. It discusses the multiplane approach as a modification of the deep-plane face-lift, combining the subSMAS dissection with wide subcutaneous undermining. This technique allows for the development of separate SMAS and skin flaps that can be treated individually as opposed to advancement as a single unit. A discussion of the anatomy with regard to the SMAS and retaining ligaments of the cheek describes how the underlying muscles affect the appearance of the nasolabial fold and why the multiplane face-lift results in superior treatment in this area. A step by step description outlines treatment of the neck, face and forehead, and use of wide MicroFoam for the final dressing.
On the relationship of the Markov mesh to the NSHP Markov chain

Abstract Two definitions of causal 2-D Markov chains are widely used in image processing. They are the Markov mesh and the nonsymmetric half-plane (NSHP) Markov chain. These two models differ in their choice of ‘past’ and also local state. In this letter we point out their relationship. This relationship then leads us to the conclusion that the NSHP Markov chain is more appropriate for applications.
Evidence Gathering: The Exclusionary Rule in China

Using a content analysis strategy, this paper argues against recent skepticism about China’s newly revised “exclusionary rule” – a rule that requires evidence to be suppressed if police officers acquired it in violation of standard procedures. Some current studies like those of Lewis (2011) and Heon-Ju Rho (2011) have referred to China’s exclusionary rule as “mere symbolism” and “window dressing.” Based on studies which explain that it does take considerable time to evaluate the effectiveness of transplanted law, the argument of this paper favors the idea that hasty assessments of a newly passed law should be withheld until a reasonable volume of cases are examined. That is, there has to be sufficient data to assess whether the rule creates an impact positively, negatively, or if no change is envisaged.This paper thus finds relevance in that (1) it lends support to the revised criminal procedure law that relates to the exclusionary rule adopted in China; (2) it highlights the merits of the spirit and intent of the exclusionary rule, and (3) it calls for restraint in early assessment of the law.
Prospects of Near-Threshold Voltage Design for Green Computing

Near-Threshold Voltage (NTV) design brings the promise of an order of magnitude improvement in energy efficiency over the current generation of silicon systems. This paper describes circuit techniques and benefits of NTV design as demonstrated by Intel's Near Threshold Voltage IA-32 Processor and discusses key technologies which are absolutely essential for harnessing true potential of NTV towards enabling a new era of 'green' computing.
Advances in maxillofacial imaging

Abstract The maxillofacial region, extending from the base of the skull to the hyoid bone, is one of the most anatomically complex regions of the body. This area contains elements and organs belonging to a number of different systems that can be affected by a variety of local and systemic pathologic processes. Diagnostic imaging has assumed a central role in the evaluation of this region. In the following monograph, we present the reader with an overview of contemporary maxillofacial imaging, focusing on three areas: recent technical advances that impact on the diagnosis of the maxillofacial region, the appearances of various maxillofacial lesions on different imaging modalities, and an overview of the role of diagnostic imaging in the evaluation of the orthognathic patient. In the first section, we focus on recent technical advances in diagnostic imaging as they relate to the maxillofacial region. Imaging modalities discussed include panoramic radiography and three-dimensional imaging. We also examine the uses of recently developed computed tomography software for the evaluation of the dental implant patient and discuss the roles of both noninteractive and interactive software in this process. The second section focuses on the radiographic appearance of a number of common lesions involving the maxillofacial region. In this section, we use the gamut approach to examine a number of developmental, inflammatory, neoplastic, metabolic, and traumatic lesions or disorders. In the last section, we briefly review the subject of orthognathic surgery and the role of diagnostic imaging in the preoperative and post-operative evaluation of the orthognathic patient. The radiographic appearance of some of the more commonly performed midfacial osteotomies are presented.
Suppression of Speckle Noise by Speckle Pinning in Adaptive Optics

Optical astronomy is increasingly concerned with the detection of faint companions, which may eventually include planetary systems, close to much brighter primary stars. Detection limits are generally set by "speckle noise," random variations in focal plane intensity that result when atmospheric turbulence redistributes the undesirably copious flux of the primary. It is well known that adaptive optics (AO) reduces the fraction of light diverted into speckles. But at a moderately high Strehl ratio, additional effects become important, including anomalous bright speckles that may have negative intensity and that are "pinned" on the secondary maxima of the diffraction-limited point-spread function (PSF). I show that companion-detection sensitivity is noticeably better on Airy nulls, even at current AO performance levels. I also show that future high adaptive correction may give regimes in which speckle noise, dominated by these anomalous speckles, has zero mean and cancels instantaneously over a detector on a PSF null to a zero that is "regulated" against seeing or correction fluctuations.
Prospects for neural stem cell-based therapies for neurological diseases.

Neural stem and progenitor cells have great potential for the treatment of neurological disorders. However, many obstacles remain to translate this field to the patient’s bedside, including rationales for using neural stem cells in individual neurological disorders; the challenges of neural stem cell biology; and the caveats of current strategies of isolation and culturing neural precursors. Addressing these challenges is critical for the translation of neural stem cell biology to the clinic. Recent work using neural stem cells has yielded novel biologic concepts such as the importance of the reciprocal interaction between neural stem cells and the neurodegenerative environment. The prospect of using transplants of neural stem cells and progenitors to treat neurological diseases requires a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms of both neural stem cell behavior in experimental models and the intrinsic repair capacity of the injured brain.
Simulation of dynamic response of granite : A numerical approach of shock-induced damage beneath impact craters

The mechanical response of rocks to dynamic loading is complex. It is not well understood because of the difficulty of defining an effective shear and tensile strength model. Recently AUTODYN-2D from Century Dynamics is used to simulate the shock-induced damage in granite targets impacted by projectiles at different velocities. The simulated results are compared with experiment data. Johnson–Holmquist shock damage constitutive model for brittle materials is applied to describe the damage and shear strain achieved in a confined volume of granite. A tensile crack softening model is coupled with the JH model to simulate the propagation of radial tensile cracks generated by the principal tensile stress perpendicular to the shock front. The tensile stress is assumed to be equal to the deviatoric stress at radii that experience less than the Hogoniot elastic limit stress. Instead of traditional grid-based methods, a smooth particle hydrodynamics is used to define damaged regions in brittle media.
Toward a Theory of Gendered Socialization

The purpose of this article is to introduce gender into models of doctoral student socialization. Although stage models of socialization explain how students acquire the skills to succeed in a discipline, they are content- and identity-neutral. Since stage models address how socialization occurs for all students, they cannot account for the idiosyncrasies of disciplines or how social identity influences an individual’s integration to a new department. Using theories of gender performance as a theoretical lens, my purpose is to extend models of doctoral student socialization to consider how gender both influences and is produced as students progress through their programs.
Molecular mechanisms of TNF-α-induced apoptosis in naïve and memory T cell subsets

Abstract Aging in humans is associated with progressive decline in T cell function, hyperimmunoglobulinemia, increased prevalence of autoantibodies and decline in naive CD8 + T cells and accumulation of memory T cells, which appears to be oligoclonal and display feature of senescence, that is, decreased replication, short telomere length and resistance to apoptosis. Recently memory T cells have been further subdivided into central and effector memory T cells, based upon their migratory and homing properties. They are identified by a number of cell surface makers. In this brief review we will discuss molecular mechanisms of apoptosis in naive and various types of memory T cells to possibly explain the changes observed in aging, which are very similar to certain autoimmune diseases.
Outcomes and predictors of difficulty with coronary sinus lead removal

With increasing coronary sinus (CS) pacemaker leads for cardiac resynchronization therapy, the need to remove these leads has risen. The purpose of this study is to describe a single center's experience with CS lead removal and to attempt to identify predictors of difficulty with lead removal and complications. We reviewed all percutaneous endocardial CS lead removals performed at our institution through February 2010. Successful removal with traction alone was considered simple while complex extractions required traction devices and/or laser sheaths. Between December 1996 and February 2010, 125 CS leads were percutaneously removed ≥1 week post-implantation from 115 patients. One attempt at CS lead extraction was unsuccessful. The average duration since implantation for the CS leads was 1.54 years (± .75 years, range 8 days to 8.24 years). The majority of the leads were removed by simple traction (n = 114, 91.2 %). The remainder were removed by femoral approach with snare (n = 3, 2.4 %), locking stylet (n = 2, 1.6 %), or locking stylet and laser sheath (n = 6, 4.8 %). Half of CS leads in place greater than 4 years required complex extraction (n = 7/14, 50 %). CS complications (n = 11 patients, 8.8 %) included CS or tributary thrombosis (n = 7/102, 6.9 %) and CS dissection (n = 4/102, 3.9 %). Major non-CS complications (n = 2 patients, 1.6 %) included a cardiac tear requiring pericardiocentesis and thoracotomy (n = 1, 0.8 %) and subclavian vein tear requiring surgical repair (n = 1, 0.8 %). Minor non-CS complications (n = 9 patients, 7.2 %) included a pneumothorax (n = 1, 0.8 %), hematoma (n = 2, 1.6 %), subclavian vein thrombosis (n = 3, x%), and blood transfusion (n = 5, 4.0 %). A longer duration since implantation and larger lead diameter were associated with complex versus simple removal (p < .0001 and p = .0009 respectively). Percutaneous CS lead removal is successful by simple traction alone in the vast majority of cases. CS leads in place greater than 4 years, however, often require complex extraction. Specific extraction techniques can be implemented when simple traction is unsuccessful without an appreciable increase in complications.
Developing and Evaluating a Measure of Young Children∍s Attitudes Toward School and Learning

High-stakes testing may potentially influence young children's attitudes toward school and learning. This study describes the development and evaluation of child and teacher versions of a measure called Children's Attitudes Toward School (CATS). Exploratory factor analyses of responses by 335 first graders and 130 first-grade teachers each identified the same underlying dimensions of attitudes related to three types of school activities—Academic, Early Literacy, and Child-Initiated. Confirmatory factor analyses of the three-factor model among a second split-half sample of 307 children and 129 teachers achieved acceptable fit. In general, children's self-reported attitudes were not associated with their achievement; teachers' judgments of children's attitudes had weak to moderate correlations with children's directly assessed skills and weak to moderately strong correlations with teachers' ratings of children's skills; children's self-reported attitudes and teachers' judgments of children's attitudes were ...
Ferroelectric smectic liquid crystals in the bent-core family: alignment for V-shaped analog switching

Possible applications of the novel antiferroelectric/ferroelectric phases exhibited by achiral bent-core mesogens (termed banana phases, B phases, or bow- phases in the literature) are considered. Specifically, in a ferroelectric bow-phase, alignment such that the molecular bow plane of the bent mesogens is parallel to the substrates, anchoring the polarization parallel to the substrates, should afford an ideal geometry for analog `V- shaped switching' devices.
Inter-industry Productivity Spillovers: An Analysis Using the 1989–1998 Brazilian Trade Liberalisation

AbstractA major obstacle in the estimation of inter-industry (vertical) productivity spillovers is the need of an exogenous productivity shock. In this article, I propose the use of trade policy changes as a large productivity shock, since the literature has found evidence that trade liberalisations increase industry-level productivity. To do so, I develop a new empirical methodology using spatial econometrics, and apply it to the large economy-wide shock represented by the 1989–1998 Brazilian trade liberalisation. My results indicate the existence of positive and substantial upstream productivity spillovers. Nevertheless, no evidence of downstream productivity spillovers is found.
Bayesian Changepoint Analysis for Extreme Events (Typhoons, Heavy Rainfall, and Heat Waves): An RJMCMC Approach

A hierarchical Bayesian framework is developed to identify multiple abrupt regime shifts in an extreme event series. Specifically, extreme events are modeled as a Poisson process with a gamma-distributed rate. Multiple candidate hypotheses are considered, under each of which there presumably exist a certain number of abrupt shifts of the rate. A Bayesian network involving three layers—data, parameter, and hypothesis—is formulated. A reversible jump Markov chain Monte Carlo (RJMCMC) algorithm is developed to calculate posterior probability for each hypothesis as well its associated within-hypothesis parameters. Based on the proposed RJMCMC algorithm, a simulated example is designed to illustrate the effectiveness of the method. Subsequently, the algorithm is applied to three real, rare event time series: the annual typhoon counts over the western North Pacific (WNP), the annual extreme heavy rainfall event counts at the Honolulu airport, and the annual heat wave frequency in the Chicago area. Results indicate that the typhoon activity over the WNP is very likely to have undergone a decadal variation, with two change points occurring around 1972 and 1989 characterized by the active 1960‐71 epoch, the inactive 1972‐88 epoch, and the moderately active 1989‐2006 epoch. For the extreme rainfall case, only one shift around 1970 is found and heavy rainfall frequency has remained stationary since then. There is no evidence that the rate of the annual heat wave counts in the Chicago area has had any abrupt change during the past 50 years.
Optimal load sharing in dynamically heterogeneous systems

Heterogeneity of processor speed and time availability is introduced to the paradigm of load sharing among a number of autonomous and independently scheduled heterogeneous computers that communicate via message-passing interconnection system. A divisible job originating at one of the system sites is to be partitioned and executed concurrently on a suite of selected processors, to the extent of the time and processing speed allocation that each computer offers for load sharing, in order to minimize job completion time. The originating computer, after invoking a poll-and-reserve load sharing protocol to obtain the multiple-interval time constraints and corresponding processing speeds declared by each processor on load sharing at the time, uses the time and speed availability data to select an optimal suite of processors and load partitioning thereon which achieves the earliest completion time. The load is characterized as being arbitrarily divisible, a paradigm suitable for loads encountered in many applications including image processing, real-time systems, and the processing of massive experimental data. An efficient algorithm for determining the optimal load partitioning is presented.
Wait-free consensus with infinite arrivals

A randomized algorithm is given that solves the wait-free consensus problem for a shared-memory model with infinitely many processes. The algorithm is based on a weak shared coin algorithm that uses weighted voting to achieve a majority outcome with at least constant probability that cannot be disguised even if a strong adversary is allowed to destroy infinitely many votes. The number of operations performed by process i is a polynomial function of i. Additional algorithms are given for solving consensus more efficiently in models with an unknown upper bound b on concurrency or an unknown upper bound n on the number of active processes; under either of these restrictions, it is also shown that the problem can be solved even with infinitely many anonymous processes by prefixing each instance of the shared coin with a naming algorithm that breaks symmetry with high probability. For many of these algorithms, matching lower bounds are proved that show that their per-process work is nearly optimal as a function of i, b, or n. The case of n active processes gives an algorithm for anonymous, adaptive consensus that requires only O(n log2 n) per-process work, which is within a constant factor of the best previously known non-adaptive algorithm for a strong adversary. Finally, it is shown that standard universal constructions based on consensus continue to work with infinitely many processes with only slight modifications. This shows that in infinite distributed systems, as in finite ones, with randomness all things are possible.
A New Species of Callulops (Anura: Microhylidae) from Papua New Guinea

We describe a new species of Callulops from the vicinity of Crater Mountain Biological Station in south-central Papua New Guinea. The species may be distinguished from its congeners by its unique dorsal color pattern, moderately expanded digital disks bearing circummarginal grooves, smooth skin, relatively long legs, and relatively short snout. The species is currently known only from the type locality, and its nearest relatives remain obscure.
Workplace bullying across cultures: A research agenda

Workplace bullying has increasingly become of interest to scholars and practicing managers due to its creation of dysfunctional intraorganizational conflict and its negative effects on employees an...
CO2 Sensitivity of Extreme Climate Events in the Western United States

Abstract Based upon trends in observed climate, extreme events are thought to be increasing in frequency and/or magnitude. This change in extreme events is attributed to enhancement of the hydrologic cycle caused by increased greenhouse gas concentrations. Results are presented of relatively long (50 yr) regional climate model simulations of the western United States examining the sensitivity of climate and extreme events to a doubling of preindustrial atmospheric CO2 concentrations. These results indicate a shift in the temperature distribution, resulting in fewer cold days and more hot days; the largest changes occur at high elevations. The rainfall distribution is also affected; total rain increases as a result of increases in rainfall during the spring season and at higher elevations. The risk of flooding is generally increased, as is the severity of droughts and heat waves. These results, combined with results of decreased snowpack and increased evaporation, could further stress the water supply of t...
Static and Dynamic Light Scattering from Solutions and Gels of RF Particles

The name aerogel is used to describe a gel from which the solvent has been removed under supercritical conditions.1,2 This results in little or no surface tension, so that there is minimal shrinkage of the gel during drying. The extremely light, high surface area foams are called aerogels. These materials have applications as catalyst supports, thermal and acoustic insulators, and most commonly Cerenkov detectors for high energy physics experiments. The recent increase of studies on aerogels has been largely devoted to silica aerogels, those formed from silicon dioxide.
Ultrastructure of Vitelline Membranes from Normal and Mottled Egg Yolks

Abstract This study showed that ultrastruture of the vitelline membrane degenerated with degree of yolk mottling. The more severe the mottling the greater the damage to the membrane. The vitelline membrane appears to be composed of three separate structures. The primary matrix (probably collagen) retains its composition until mottling is most severe; then this structure starts to come apart and lose its integrity. The secondary matrix (probably mucin) aids in holding the primary structure in a fixed position. When this structure is removed there is movement in the primary matrix causing large holes to appear. The tertiary matrix (also mucin) is the quickest to disintegrate. The tertiary matrix covers the other structures much like the cuticle around the egg shell. Once it is removed, the remaining structures are open to stress and damage as mottling increases.
Optimization in Brain? - Modeling Human Behavior and Brain Activation Patterns with Queuing Network and Reinforcement Learning Algorithms

Here we present a novel approach to model brain and behavioral phenomena of multitask performance, which integrates queuing networks with reinforcement learning algorithms. Using the queuing network as the static platform of brain structure and reinforcement learning as the dynamic algorithm to quantify the learning process, this model successfully accounts for several behavioral phenomena related to the learning process of transcription typing and the psychological refractory period (PRP). This model also proposes brain changes that may accompany the typing and PRP practice effects that could be tested empirically with neuroimaging. All of the modeled phenomena emerged as outcomes of the natural operations of the human information processing queuing network.
Fragmented QRS as a Marker of Conduction Abnormality and a Predictor of Prognosis of Brugada Syndrome

Background—Conduction abnormalities serve as a substrate for ventricular fibrillation (VF) in patients with Brugada syndrome (BS). Signal-averaged electrograms can detect late potentials, but the significance of conduction abnormalities within the QRS complex is still unknown. The latter can present as multiple spikes within the QRS complex (fragmented QRS [f-QRS]). We hypothesized that f-QRS could indicate a substrate for VF and might predict a high risk of VF for patients with BS. Methods and Results—In study 1, we analyzed the incidence of f-QRS in 115 patients with BS (13 resuscitated from VF, 28 with syncope, and 74 asymptomatic). f-QRS was observed in 43% of patients, more often in the VF group (incidence of f-QRS: VF 85%, syncope 50%, and asymptomatic 34%, P0.01). SCN5A mutations occurred more often in patients with f-QRS (33%) than in patients without f-QRS (5%). In patients with syncope or VF, only 6% without f-QRS experienced VF during follow-up (4325 months), but 58% of patients with f-QRS had recurrent syncope due to VF (P0.01). In study 2, to investigate the mechanism of f-QRS, we studied in vitro models of BS in canine right ventricular tissues (n4) and optically mapped multisite action potentials. In the experimental model of BS, ST elevation resulted from a large phase 1 notch of the action potential in the epicardium, and local epicardial activation delay reproduced f-QRS in the transmural ECG. Conclusions—f-QRS appears to be a marker for the substrate for spontaneous VF in BS and predicts patients at high risk of syncope. (Circulation. 2008;118:1697-1704.)
Are the endorphins involved in mediating the mood effects of ethanol

The opiate antagonist, naloxone, was used in a double-blind study of endorphin involvement in ethanol intoxication. Naloxone should block the effect of any endorphins released during ethanol intoxication. Healthy human subjects received intravenous (IV) ethanol plus naloxone, IV ethanol plus saline, IV saline plus naloxone, or IV saline plus saline. There were 20 subjects in each group. Anxiety was aroused after administration of the IV fluids. The effects of ethanol were clear in terms of the mood and physiological measures used, but were not modified by naloxone. A mean blood alcohol concentration of 63 mg/100 ml did not modify the experience of anxiety.
Analysis of multilocus models of association.

It is increasingly recognized that multiple genetic variants, within the same or different genes, combine to affect liability for many common diseases. Indeed, the variants may interact among themselves and with environmental factors. Thus realistic genetic/statistical models can include an extremely large number of parameters, and it is by no means obvious how to find the variants contributing to liability. For models of multiple candidate genes and their interactions, we prove that statistical inference can be based on controlling the false discovery rate (FDR), which is defined as the expected number of false rejections divided by the number of rejections. Controlling the FDR automatically controls the overall error rate in the special case that all the null hypotheses are true. So do more standard methods such as Bonferroni correction. However, when some null hypotheses are false, the goals of Bonferroni and FDR differ, and FDR will have better power. Model selection procedures, such as forward stepwise regression, are often used to choose important predictors for complex models. By analysis of simulations of such models, we compare a computationally efficient form of forward stepwise regression against the FDR methods. We show that model selection includes numerous genetic variants having no impact on the trait, whereas FDR maintains a false-positive rate very close to the nominal rate. With good control over false positives and better power than Bonferroni, the FDR-based methods we introduce present a viable means of evaluating complex, multivariate genetic models. Naturally, as for any method seeking to explore complex genetic models, the power of the methods is limited by sample size and model complexity.
Strategic management impotence: An advisory to chief executive officers

One of the greatest frustrations you can experience as a CEO or manager is the feeling of being powerless to help your organization implement a strategy that you know is sound—even brilliant. Has it occurred to you that you or your advisors or consultants might be the cause of this strategic management impotence?
Fatigue Crack Initiation and Propagation in Bonded Sheets

Abstract The initiation and propagation of fatigue cracks in bonded sheets are investigated. Two sheets of 2024 T346 aluminum alloy are bonded together either with CC15 or Epoxy adhesive and a center notch is created in one of them. The bonded second sheet tends to reduce the stress intensity factor at the tip of the notch in the first sheet, thereby retarding both crack initiation and propagation. The experiment is compared with calculated reductions in stress intensity factor and the crack growth results show reasonable agreement.
Multinomial Squared Direction Cosines Regression

In this paper we introduce Multinomial Squared Direction Cosines Regression as an alternative Multinomial Response Model. The proposed model offers an intuitive geometric interpretation to the task of estimating posterior class probabilities in multi-class problems. In specific, the latter probabilities correspond to the squared direction cosines between a given pattern and representative class exemplars that form a basis in the decision space. We demonstrate that the model allows for efficient training via a trust region based Newton's Method, provided that the number of model parameters is not too large. Experimental results on several benchmark classification problems show that it compares competitively against Logistic Regression Classifiers, Support Vector Machines, and Classification and Regression Tree models.
A fixed-program data processor for banking operations

Erma is a large, special-purpose data-processing system designed by Stanford Research Institute for the Bank of America. The system includes both paper-handling and electronic data-processing functions, and its purpose is the keeping of records for commercial checking accounts. The first model will serve 32,000 active accounts and later will be extended to serve 50,000 active accounts.
NEW APPLICATIONS FOR BIOCATALYSTS

Biocatalysis has always been a key focus area in biotechnology and new approaches for the utilization of biocatalysts have continued to emerge over the past year. Significant progress has been made in the biocatalytic production of both synthetic and natural polymers, in the generation of novel biocatalysts using genetic and biochemical approaches or through identification of new biological sources, in the immobilization of biocatalysts and their modification with amphiphilic polymers, and in the modulation of the stereochemistry of enzymatic reactions.
Biomechanics and the wheelchair

Wheelchair biomechanics involves the study of how a wheelchair user imparts power to the wheels to achieve mobility. Because a wheelchair can coast, power input need not be continuous, but each power strike can be followed by a period of recovery, with the stroking frequency depending on user preferences and the coasting characteristics of the wheelchair. The latter is described in terms of rolling resistance, wind resistance and the slope of the surface. From these three factors the power required to propel the wheelchair is determined, and must be matched by the power output of the user. The efficiency of propulsion is the ratio of this power output to the metabolic cost and is typically in the order of 5% in normal use.The features required in a wheelchair depend upon user characteristics and intended activities. The ideal wheelchair for an individual will have the features that closely match these characteristics and activities. Thus prescription is not just choosing a wheelchair, but choosing the com...
A three-part intersection of psychology and information systems

iii CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION 1 1.1 ORGANIZATION 1 1.2 LITERATURE REVIEW 2 1.2.1 PERSONALITY 2 1.2.2 COUNSELING 3 1.2.3 SOCIAL 3 1.3 PLAN OF PRESENTATION 4 CHAPTER 2: PERSONALITY AND COGNITIVE STYLE AS PREDICTORS OF PREFERENCE FOR WORKING IN VIRTUAL TEAMS 5 CHAPTER 3: UTILIZING STRUCTURAL EQUATION MODELING AND SOCIAL COGNITIVE CAREER THEORY TO IDENTIFY FACTORS IN CHOICE OF IT AS A MAJOR 31 CHAPTER 4: AN IMPRESSION FORMATION-BASED EXAMINATION OF THE DIFFERENTIAL INFLUENCE OF TECHNOLOGY ACROSS GENDER AND MESSAGE 65 CHAPTER 5: CONCLUSION 124 REFERENCES 126
The Handbook of Human Services Management, edited by R. J. Patti

The principal aim of this management handbook is to present current, up-to-date conceptual and technical information about how to manage human service organizations so as to provide high quality an...