cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Poverty and the health of children and adolescents.

The links between poverty and child health are extensive, strong, and pervasive. By this I mean that virtually all aspects of health are worse among children living in poverty than among children from affluent families; that the difference in health between poor and well off children poses a substantial public health problem; and that children’s health varies closely with even the most subtle of socioeconomic differences. Even in a disorder such as cystic fibrosis, with an equal incidence in different social groups, survival is strongly influenced by social factors.1 This paper describes the associations between social disadvantage and various aspects of child health. It then discusses the evidence that poverty and economic factors are central to the causes of social differences in child health. Alternative explanations of the links are then considered. Finally, the implications for policy of the research evidence are outlined. The material in this paper is based on a memorandum requested by the House of Commons Health Committee as part of the evidence they collected for their inquiry into children’s health in the UK. This inquiry began in 1996 and the bulk of the memorandum is reproduced here with the permission of the committee. ### MORTALITY Infant and perinatal mortality has long been known to vary socially. Infant mortality was used to validate the Registrar General’s classification of occupations into social classes2 and is also widely accepted as an accurate indicator of a country’s economic and social development.3 Infant mortality was a key indicator in the Black report4 and the social differences persist; in 1993 infant mortality in the most affluent class (married, social class I) was 4.3/1000, whereas in the poorest class (unmarried, social class ‘other’) it was 18.5/1000.5 Overall, mortality throughout childhood and adolescence follows this social pattern; the only causes of …
The Spreading of a Buoyant Plume Beneath a Landfast Ice Cover

AbstractIdealized numerical simulations using the Regional Ocean Modeling System demonstrate the effects of an immobile landfast ice cover that is frictionally coupled to an underice buoyant plume established by river discharge. The discharge rapidly increases and decreases over a 30-day period and has a maximum of 6000 m3 s−1. This study examined the response to a landfast ice cover of 26-km width and one that encompasses the entire shelf width. The model setting mimics spring conditions on the Alaskan Beaufort Sea (ABS) shelf. In comparison with the ice-free case subject to the same discharge scenario, underice plumes are broader and deeper, and the downwave freshwater flux is substantially decreased and delayed. Multiple anticyclonic bulges form in the ice-free case, but only a single, large bulge forms when ice is present. These differences are because of the frictional coupling between the ice and plume, which results in an Ekman-like underice boundary layer, a subsurface velocity maximum, and fricti...
Quantitative comparison of shear‐dependent Staphylococcus aureus adhesion to three polyurethane ionomer analogs with distinct surface properties

Bacterial adhesion is a central step in infection on biomaterial surfaces; however, the relation between biomaterial surface properties and adhesion remains poorly understood. To quantitatively determine the relationship among polyurethane surface properties, protein coating, and adhesion, we have compared attachment and detachment kinetics of Staphylococcus aureus on three different novel polyurethanes with different protein coatings. Rate constants for attachment or detachment were measured as a function of shear rate in a well-defined laminar flow field. The tested polyurethanes included a relatively hydrophobic-base polyether urethane and hydrophilic anionomer and cationomer analogs of the base material. Materials were tested bare, or coated with human fibrinogen, plasma, or albumin. The results suggest that the presence of fibrinogen or plasma greatly enhance the attachment rate constants and decrease the detachment rate constants on all materials. The most extreme differences among the different materials were observed on the bare materials, with the base polyurethane being most resistant to both attachment and detachment. However, except for a reduced attachment rate constant on the plasma-coated sulfonated polyurethane, few differences in the rate constants were observed among protein-coated materials, suggesting the primary role of surface properties is masked by the presence of the adsorbed protein layer.
Black Churches and Mental Health Professionals Can This Collaboration Work

African Americans reportedly have a greater severity of untreated mental health disorders than any other known racial group. History purports that African Americans are more likely to rely on the e...
A 40 Gb/s clock and data recovery circuit in 0.18 /spl mu/m CMOS technology

A phase-locked clock and data recovery circuit incorporates a multiphase LC oscillator and a quarter-rate bang-bang phase detector. The oscillator is based on differential excitation of a closed-loop transmission line at evenly spaced points, providing half-quadrature phases. The phase detector employs eight flip-flops to sample the input every 12.5 ps, detecting data transitions while retiming and demultiplexing the data into four 10-Gb/s outputs. Fabricated in 0.18-/spl mu/m CMOS technology, the circuit produces a clock jitter of 0.9 ps/sub rms/ and 9.67 ps/sub pp/ with a PRBS of 2/sup 31/-1 while consuming 144 mW from a 2-V supply.
Catalytic pyrolysis of corn dried distillers grains with solubles to produce hydrocarbons

This paper explores dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS) from corn ethanol production as a potential feedstock for production of hydrocarbons from catalytic pyrolysis. We found substantially higher yield of aromatics and olefins from DDGS compared with lignocelluosic biomass for pyrolysis over HZSM-5. Experiments on individual components of DDGS showed that protein and lipid account for these enhanced yields. We also found that lipids had a positive synergistic effect with other components in the DDGS, enhancing the yield of aromatics. Product distributions for HZSM-5 catalysts with different SiO2/Al2O3 ratios were evaluated. The highest carbon yields of aromatics and olefins (44.5% and 12.3%, respectively) occurred for a SiO2/Al2O3 ratio of 30 for in-situ catalytic pyrolysis at 600 °C. Ex-situ catalytic pyrolysis using the same HZSM-5 catalyst produced lower overall yields of hydrocarbons, but the relative yields of aromatics and olefins were reversed (17.6% and 24.5%, respectively) compared to i...
3D surface analysis of hippocampal microvasculature in the irradiated brain

Cranial irradiation used to control CNS malignancies can also disrupt the vasculature and impair neurotransmission and cognition. Here we describe two distinct methodologies for quantifying early and late radiation injury in CNS microvasculature. Intravascular fluorescently labeled lectin was used to visualize microvessels in the brain of the irradiated mouse 2 days post exposure and RECA-1 immunostaining was similarly used to visualize microvessels in the brain of the irradiated rat 1-month post exposure. Confocal microscopy, image deconvolution and 3-dimensional rendering methods were used to define vascular structure in a ∼4 × 10(7) μm(3) defined region of the brain. Quantitative analysis of these 3D images revealed that irradiation caused significant short- and long-term reductions in capillary density, diameter and volume. In mice, irradiation reduced mean vessel volume from 2,250 to 1,470 μm(3) and mean vessel diameter from 5.0 to 4.5 μm, resulting in significant reductions of 34% and 10%, in the hippocampus respectively. The number of vessel branch points and area was also found to also drop significantly in mice 2 days after irradiation. For rats, immunostaining revealed a significant, three-fold drop in capillary density 1 month after exposure compared to controls. Such radiation-induced disruption of the CNS microvasculature may be contributory if not causal to any number of neurocognitive side effects that manifest in cancer patients following cranial radiotherapy. This study demonstrates the utility of two distinct methodologies for quantifying these important adverse effects of radiotherapy. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 57:341-349, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A microprocessor controlled page turner.

The Page-A-R.A.M.A. (Remote Automated Manuscript Advance) was designed and constructed to turn a single page of a standard sized book. The design is intended to fulfill the needs of a handicapped user who cannot turn the pages of a book. The user starts the procedure by triggering a switch, that produces a TURN PAGE command. After a TURN PAGE command has been indicated, a DC gearmotor turns a page through a driver arm and suction device. When the page is attached to the arm, the gearmotor reverses, and lifts the page from the book. When the page reaches a certain height, a blower is activated and the suction device is detached from the page, allowing the page to be turned to the other side of the book. The above process is controlled by a Motorola 68HC11 microprocessor. Since this will be a single unit production the microprocessor evaluation board, MC68HC11EVB, was used. Construction of the Page-A-R.A.M.A. is not fully completed. The initial testing shows that the suction/blower device does turn pages. A problem exists because of static electricity between the book pages, causing the suction device to pick up more than one page at a time. A possible solution for the problem is treating the book by chemical means to eliminate the static electricity. Further testing and refinements will be performed on the Page-A-R.A.M.A.
Treatment of Sickle Cell Trait Hematuria with Oral Urea

Unilateral hematuria is a vaso-occlusive complication of the sickle syndromes, especially the sickle cell trait. Treatment is usually ineffective, and the duration is variable, often prolonged and subject to recurrences. In sickle cell trait hematuria is usually the only consequence of sickling, possibly because the unique renal countercurrent mechanism may result in a milieu more prone to sickling in the medullary circulation than in the vasculature of other organs. Urea in vitro inhibits gelation of deoxygenated sickle hemoglobin. In 2 previously reported cases of sickle cell trait hematuria ceased within 3 days with oral urea therapy. We describe another such patient in whom hematuria also ceased by day 3 with oral urea. Although clinical trails with intravenous urea were ineffective in shortening the course of sickle crisis, urea may have an enhanced effectiveness in the renal medulla where the propensity for sickling may be much greater than in other organs. If these observations are confirmed in a controlled study, oral urea therapy would emerge as an effective, relatively innocuous and inexpensive treatment for this frustrating condition.
Perceived Corporate Ethicalness and Salesforce Turnover: a New Rationale for More Ethical Corporate Behavior

This paper suggests that salesforce turnover intentions can be used to partially price the cost (or benefit) of a more ethical corporate culture in the area of salesforce operations. Statistical tests find an associative relationship between turnover intentions and the level of perceived corporate ethicalness for a retail salesforce.
Lycurim in Combination Chemotherapy with 3,4,5-Trihydroxybenzo Hydroxamic Acid in Vitro

The purpose of this study was to test for possible synergism in the cytotoxic activity of the alkylating agent, lycurim (LY) in the combination with 3,4,5-trihydroxybenzohydroxamic acid (VF 122), an inhibitor of ribonucleotide reductase. Experiments were performed on proliferating rat hepatoma 3924A cells in tissue culture. Lycurim also inhibited the activity of transaldolase. In tissue culture LY killed both exponentially growing and plateau phase cells. VF 122 inhibited ribonucleotide reductase activity in vitro with IC50 = 10µM and proved to be a better inhibitor of this enzyme than hydroxyurea. In tissue culture VF 122 was a cycle-specific agent. LY together with VF 122 gave synergistic killing in hepatoma 3924A cells treated for 7 days as determined by colony-forming ability. It was concluded that synergism was time-dependent because only summation was observed when the cells were treated with both drugs for 1hr.
What's in a Name? The Impact of Fair Trade Claims on Product Price

Agribusinesses use credence claims reporting the sustainability of products and supply chains. One example, fair trade, relies on a diverse set of third party standards and certification organizations. Food marketing data are used to compare products launched between 1999 and 2013 in the coffee, tea, and chocolate categories. Out of 3,257 observations making a reference to fair trade, 2,745 were certified. The other items follow certain fair trade practices or support fair trade. Many products claim both fair trade and organic (congruent claim). Fairtrade Labeling Organizations – International (FLO-I) certifiers dominate, but Fair Trade USA (breaking from FLO-I in 2012) is important. A double hurdle hedonic regression model explores the relationship between claims and suggested retail price in the United States, Canada, and European Union over two periods (1999–2011 and 2012–2013). Two models are run, one aggregating non-FLO-I members and one accounting for each individual certifier. The models (first hurdle) are not able to identify factors explaining which products are certified. Results suggest (second hurdle) that after controlling for congruent claims, having a fair trade claim certified by certain third parties significantly raises the price (above an uncertified product). In particular FLO-I certification leads to a higher price in all models in both periods. Conversely, there is a range of premia for non-FLO-I certifiers, not all statistically significant. Implications for stakeholders are advanced. [EconLit citations: D40, L15, L66].
Computer-aided rhetorical analysis of crowdfunding pitches

Crowdfunding has emerged as a technological means of securing funds for innovation in the past decade. However, recent studies found that more projects fail to achieve their funding goals than succeed. This paper reports on a pilot study that investigates what makes certain campaigns successful. In particular, the study investigates how successful pitches are written differently from failed ones in terms of their rhetorical strategies. Preliminary results suggest that successful pitches are often written for a specialized expert community that include technical details, while failed pitches tend to focus on values of their project targeting a general audience in mind.
Cerebellum and Oculomotor Control

The cerebellum plays a key role in the ‘on-line’ generation and the long-term calibration of all types of eye movements. The flocculus and paraflocculus assure that images are held steady on the fovea: impaired gaze holding, spontaneous vertical nystagmus, impaired pursuit and abnormal amplitude, and direction of vestibulo-ocular reflexes are signs of lesions here. The nodulus and ventral uvula modulate the amplitude and the axis of eye rotation of the response to the low-frequency (sustained) components of head rotation: prolonged vestibular responses and periodic alternating nystagmus are signs of lesions here. The dorsal vermis and underlying posterior fastigial nuclei calibrate saccade amplitude and pursuit initiation. Saccadic dysmetria is the hallmark sign of lesions here. The cerebellum also assures that both static and dynamic ocular alignment is optimized for binocular foveal vision.
What Makes a Course Valuable? Avoiding Worthless Courses and Majors

The perceived purpose of college education has shifted in the past century from teaching ethics/morality/values to acquiring a philosophy of life to acquiring the skills to do well in a career. Acquiring the right skills for professional success means taking the right courses. This paper attempts to answer the question as to what makes a course or major valuable. The author describes ten skills that students must acquire to achieve professional and personal success. In the knowledge economy, successful firms desperately need employees with such skills as creativity, critical thinking, and a passion for knowledge. Students without these skills may find employment but will ultimately find themselves stuck in dead-end jobs.
Forecasting price parity for stand-alone hybrid solar microgrids: an international comparison

This work quantitatively analyzes the evolution of hybrid stand-alone microgrids in the US, Germany, Pakistan and South Africa to determine the grid price parity date for a solar PV/Diesel/Battery hybrid system in each market. The energy system model and NREL’s HOMER software are used to simulate the microgrid operation and forecast the levelized cost of electricity into the future for each location, with results ranging from 35–52 cents/kWh. This cost/kWh is compared with projected grid electricity prices at each location to determine parity dates. Analysis results reveal that grid parity is primarily a result of higher power prices or unreliable grids rather than declining microgrid costs. For Pakistan, grid parity is already here for microgrids, while Germany hits parity in the 2023–2040 timeframe. Results for South Africa and the US suggest that places with low grid prices hit parity after the year 2040. Sensitivity analysis results reveal the significant impact of financing on the year of grid parity, particularly in developing markets. We also show that policy measures to eliminate uncertainty and improve financing could push this grid parity years or decades earlier in developing economies where such microgrids may find a greater utility at present or in the near future.
Facial Recognition with the Double Robot Creating A Personalized Robot

This project's goal is to explore facial recognition, and expands upon turning a Telepresence robot into an autonomous one. We will use Smerk/GPU Image for the detection of the face, Open CV for the recognition of the face, AV Capture for video capturing, and Double Robot SDK for the control of the robot. With these technologies, the robot will be able to detect a face, grab training frames, process the training frames, and setup a recognition and compare it against new input/faces, to either move towards the face it knows, or park for the face it does not know.
Molecular and functional properties of a xylanase hydrolysate of corn bran arabinoxylan

Enzymatic hydrolysis of arabinoxylans to prepare arabinoxylo-oligosaccharides has been of high interest from the commercial point of view. However, some arabinoxylans, such as those extracted from corn bran, tend to be difficult to hydrolyze into oligosaccharides due to their highly branched structure which limits the action of xylanases. This research presents a new arabinoxylo-oligosaccharide preparation by enzymatic treatment of corn bran with an endoxylanase enzyme. The native arabinoxylan had a molecular weight of 253kDa and the hydrolysate polymers ranged from 51.6 to 132kDa. The hydrolyzates showed improved solubility in contrast to the original sample. The molecular properties of the hydrolyzates were related to the enzyme concentration used in the hydrolysis process, with increasing enzyme concentration leading to decreasing molecular weight and size. Solution viscosity of the samples also decreased with increasing enzyme concentration. All of the hydrolyzates showed emulsifying ability that was comparable to the original arabinoxylan.
Effect of the Magnus force on skyrmion relaxation dynamics

We perform systematic Langevin molecular dynamics simulations of interacting skyrmions in thin films. The interplay between the Magnus force, the repulsive skyrmion-skyrmion interaction, and the thermal noise yields different regimes during nonequilibrium relaxation. In the noise-dominated regime, the Magnus force enhances the disordering effects of the thermal noise. In the Magnus-force-dominated regime, the Magnus force cooperates with the skyrmion-skyrmion interaction to yield a dynamic regime with slow decaying correlations. These two regimes are characterized by different values of the aging exponent. In general, the Magnus force accelerates the approach to the steady state.
Recent Advances in Molecular Evolution of the Primates

In the last three decades investigations into the processes underlying molecular evolution have expanded our knowledge concerning the phylogenetic history of the primates. Advances in molecular evolution have coincided with exciting paleontological discoveries, especially the recent australopithecine and ramapithecine finds that question anew the events and timing leading to the origins of the hominine species. The molecular approach has yielded important insights into phylogenetic relationships among primates by sharpening our understanding in several areas. The possibility of correct placement for the enigmatic Tarsier with respect to prosimian and anthropoid lineages, and understanding the evolutionary history of the gibbon and siamang with respect to the other ape lineages has been strengthened. Further insights into relationships within Old and New World monkey groups have also been gained.
Modern Management of Testicular Cancer

Testicular cancer is a rare urological malignancy with high cure rate. The development of highly effective systemic treatment regimens along with advances in surgical treatment of advanced disease has led to continued improvement in outcomes. Patients with testicular cancer who are treated following the treatment guideline mostly achieved high quality of life and long-term survival. However, patients who were identified as having non-guideline directed care were at significantly higher risk of relapse. In this book chapter, we introduce in depth the modern management of testicular cancer, including diagnosis, staging and risk stratification, treatment strategies of seminoma and non-seminoma germ cell tumors, follow-up protocols, and salvage treatment for disease relapse. We also review new studies and updates on medical and surgical management of advanced testicular cancer.
Symptom assessment of oldest old cancer patients.

e22035Background: The older population is a growing segment of the United States. The oldest old, described as those aged 85 and older, experienced the fastest growth. Although this population is a...
Integrative Therapies for Pain Modulation

Since the 1970s, there has been an increase in both the development and use of integrative therapies, and from the mid-1990s until 2014, there have been hundreds of research studies regarding the efficacy and/or validity of these therapies. Most of these studies concur that integrative therapies reduce pain, anxiety, and fear and promote general well-being. For the most part, no formal education in any of these therapies occurs within educational institutions other than a lecture or guest speaker conferences. This chapter is an account of some of the uses and benefits of these treatments. It is not the intent to be all inclusive, but rather to assist in opening colleagues to pursue personal learning and/or referring patients to receive such treatments.
Acousto-Optic Combined Detection Technique for Partial Discharge Defect of Earthing Switch

This paper introduces the detection and analysis for an abnormal corona defect of a 500kV B-class earthing switch using combined detection technique of ultraviolet imaging and non-contact ultrasonic. Combined with ultraviolet detection spectrum, ultrasonic partial discharge spectrum and equipment inspection results of corona defect location, the principle of arc extinguishing system and failure reason is analyzed. The fault is due to poor contact between drain line of arc extinguishing chamber and main contact conductor, which causes Continuous induction discharge around the contact area with earthing switch in open position. Due to early detection and timely treatment of this defect, possible loss is avoided.
Loss of pseudouridine synthases in the RluA family causes hypersensitive nociception in Drosophila

Nociceptive neurons of Drosophila larvae are characterized by highly branched dendritic processes whose proper morphogenesis relies on a large number of RNA-binding proteins. Post-transcriptional regulation of RNA in these dendrites has been found to play an important role in their function. Here, we investigate the neuronal functions of two putative RNA modification genes, RluA-1 and RluA-2, which are predicted to encode pseudouridine synthases. RluA-1 is specifically expressed in larval sensory neurons while RluA-2 expression is ubiquitous. Nociceptor-specific RNAi knockdown of RluA-1 caused hypersensitive nociception phenotypes, which were recapitulated with genetic null alleles. These were rescued with genomic duplication and nociceptor-specific expression of UAS-RluA-1-cDNA. As with RluA-1, RluA-2 loss of function mutants also displayed hyperalgesia. Interestingly, nociceptor neuron dendrites showed a hyperbranched morphology in the RluA-1 mutants. The latter may be a cause or a consequence of heightened sensitivity in mutant nociception behaviors.
L8.3 Moving Beyond the Mean: The Role of Variation in Determining Phenotype

Abstract Two trends are driving innovation and discovery in biological sciences: technologies that allow holistic surveys of genes, proteins, and metabolites and a realization that biological processes are driven by complex networks of interacting biological molecules. However, there is a gap between the gene lists emerging from genome sequencing projects and the network diagrams that are essential if we are to understand the link between genotype and phenotype. ‘Omic technologies were once heralded as providing a window into those networks, but so far their success has been limited, in large part because the high-dimensional they produce cannot be fully constrained by the limited number of measurements and in part because the data themselves represent only a small part of the complete story. To circumvent these limitations, we have developed methods that combine ‘omic data with other sources of information in an effort to leverage, more completely, the compendium of information that we have been able to amass. Here we will present a number of approaches we have developed, with an emphasis on the how those methods have provided into the role that particular cellular pathways play in driving differentiation, and the role that variation in gene expression patterns influences the development of disease states. In particular, we will challenge the basic analytical that have been used in biomedical research and argue that one should move beyond a simple comparison of the means relative to variance (the t-test) but instead also consider how variance itself changes between phenotypes. Looking forward, we will examine more abstract state-space models that may have potential to lead us to a more general predictive, theoretical biology.
Montelukast combined with budesonide for children with cough variant asthma

Objective To investigate the clinical effect and safety of singulair combined with budesonide in the treatment of cough variant asthma. Method 120 cases of cough variant asthma treated at our hospital from January, 2015 to December, 2016 were chosen and randomly divided into a treatment and a control group, 60 for each group. Both groups took routine and symptomatic treatment, including relieving cough and reducing sputum, anti-infection, and inhaling budesonide. In addition, the treatment group orally took montelukast. The clinical effects and symptom-relieving times were compared between these two groups. Results The total efficacy was obviously higher in then observation group than in the control group (91.7% vs. 78.3%) (P 0.05). Conclusion Montelukast sodium combined with budesonide for children with cough variant asthma is clinically effective and safe, so it is a good choice. Key words: Budesonide; Montelukast; Cough variant asthma
Examining Primacy and Recency Effects in Hypocritical CSR News: An Abstract

In their interactions in the business environment, consumers are placing an increased importance on the social actions with which firms are involved. Typically, research has focused on the positive benefits of corporate social responsibility (CSR) or how consumers respond to negative CSR. Negative CSR involves the presence of a transgression, usually some violation of what is generally acceptable in terms of ethics, society, and the consumer–firm relationship. It occurs when a firm engages in activities that are damaging to communities, customers, employees, and/or the natural environment. These failures are often accompanied by positive CSR declarations and activities, creating inconsistent or contradictory information (Wagner et al. 2009). However, little research exists that investigates how consumers react to contradictory CSR information and what firms can do to mitigate its effects. Therefore, this study seeks to understand the impact of contradictory CSR information on consumers and identify communication strategies firms can employ to promote their positive CSR outcomes to alleviate any negative effects from CSR failures.
Noise Outcomes in Servicemembers Epidemiology (NOISE) Study: Design, Methods, and Baseline Results

Objectives Military Service members and Veterans commonly report hearing loss and tinnitus, both of which can result in significant disability. During military service, Service members are exposed to many different types of loud noise, which is strongly associated with hearing loss and tinnitus. Other military-related exposures, such as chemicals and traumatic brain injury (TBI), are also linked with auditory problems. The purpose of the "Noise Outcomes in Servicemembers Epidemiology" (NOISE) study is to gather information from Active-Duty Service members and recently separated Veterans about their military and nonmilitary noise exposures, other relevant military and nonmilitary exposures, and potential outcomes of these exposures including tinnitus, hearing loss, and other hearing-related health concerns. Design The NOISE study assesses lifetime noise exposures, chemical and blast exposures, TBI, physical and psychiatric comorbidities, and other military and nonmilitary exposures and outcomes that can affect auditory function. Participants undergo comprehensive in-person audiologic examinations; those who experience tinnitus undergo a complete tinnitus assessment. Exposures and select outcomes are reassessed annually by mail, and the comprehensive in-person assessment is completed every 5 years. This report presents descriptive, baseline data obtained from the first 690 participants enrolled between 2014 and 2018. Results Some notable findings from this analysis include: (1) the prevalence of hearing loss in the sample was 8% for low frequencies (0.25 to 2 kHz), 20% for high frequencies (3 to 8 kHz), and 39% for extended high frequencies (9 to 16 kHz); (2) the prevalence of tinnitus was 53%; (3) the prevalence of both hearing loss and tinnitus was higher among those with higher age, more years of military service, greater degree of noise exposure, and exposures to blasts and/or TBI in the military; and (4) tinnitus was most prevalent among participants who serve/served in the Army relative to the other military branches. Conclusions The NOISE study is acquiring comprehensive data on military-related auditory dysfunction. It is the first of its kind to enroll active Service members and recently separated Veterans into a longitudinal study to examine the etiology and outcomes of tinnitus and hearing loss in this population. Although these data do not necessarily represent the entire military and Veteran populations, ongoing enrollment is focused on increasing generalizability and will also provide the statistical power to conduct multivariable analyses. This will allow us to examine longitudinal associations of interest while controlling for potential confounders and other possible sources of error. These data will provide critical knowledge to refine future military hearing conservation efforts and inform efforts to develop future treatments.
The valuation of the foreign income of US multinational firms: a growth opportunities perspective

We demonstrate the value-relevance of foreign earnings for US multinational firms by examining the associations between annual abnormal stock performance and changes in firms′ domestic and foreign incomes. For 2570 tirm-year observations between 1985 and 1993, both foreign and domestic earnings changes have significant positive associations with annual excess return measures: however, the association coefficient on foreign income is significantly larger than the association coefficient on domestic income. We demonstrate this larger association coefficient for foreign income is consistent with differences in growth opportunities between domestic and foreign operations.
Fast Network-on-Chip Design

In previous Chapter, we showed how resonant clocking can be used as a high-speed, low power, stable, on-chip clock generation and distribution schemes. In this chapter, we use such a clock to design a high speed source-synchronous ring-based NoC architecture. In Sect. 3.1, we introduce our NoC design, which comprises of extremely fast, intersecting source-synchronous data rings. These source-synchronous data rings traverse the CMP in both the horizontal and vertical directions providing complete connectivity to all the PEs in a CMP. In our approach, the interconnection network operates on a different clock domain which runs significantly faster than the PE clocks. This helps us achieve inter-processor communication with minimal latency. We perform architectural simulations of the ring-based NoC in Sect. 3.2. We propose a deadlock-free routing protocol of the source-synchronous ring-based NoC by using link ordering and virtual channel based buffered flow control. Architectural results obtained on synthetic and real traffic demonstrate that the source-synchronous ring-based NoC has significantly lower latency and higher maximum sustained injection rate compared to a state of the art mesh-based NoC. Next, in Sect. 3.3, we propose a modified source-synchronous design in which the PEs extract a low jitter clock directly from the high speed ring clock by division, and hence are synchronous with the NoC. This is feasible due to the extremely good jitter characteristics of the SWO based clock generation and distribution scheme of Sect. 2.2. Using the above modified design, we propose a class of source-synchronous NoCs organized in an H-tree topology which consume lower logic and wiring area compared to a state of the art mesh. Architectural simulations on synthetic and real traffic show that our H-tree based NoC designs can provide significantly lower latency and are able to sustain a higher injection rate compared to a state of the art mesh. Using the modified source-synchronous design proposed in Sect. 3.3, we also evaluate two more floorplan-friendly NoC topologies in Sect. 3.4. These two floorplan-friendly NoC topologies consume significantly lower logic and wiring area compared to a state of the art mesh. Architectural simulations on synthetic and real traffic show that they can provide significantly lower latency while achieving same or better maximum sustained injection rate compared to a state of the art mesh.
An approach for estimating cyber attack level of effort

Timely risk assessments allow organizations to gauge the degree to which cyber attacks threaten their mission/business objectives. Risk plots in such assessments typically include cyber attack likelihood values along with the impact. This paper describes an algorithm and an associated model that allow for estimation of one aspect of cyber attack likelihood, attack level of effort. The approach involves the use of an ordinal set of standardized attacker tiers, associated attacker capabilities, and protections (security controls) required to resist those capabilities.
Financial Stress and Economic Policy Uncertainty: Impulse Response Functions and Causality

This study employs the vector autoregression (VAR) analysis to empirically report the impulse response functions of economic policy certainty and financial stress. A causality test of these two variables is also performed. The analysis of the monthly changes in the economic policy uncertainty index and the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis Financial Stress Index from 1994:1 to 2012:5 including up 9 lags shows that the financial stress jumps in the first, fifth, and eighth through twelfth months following economic policy shocks. In addition, economic policy uncertainty jumps in the first, third, fourth, sixth, seventh, and ninth months following financial stress shocks. The Granger causality test shows that financial stress and economic policy uncertainty Granger-cause each other. The time-series OLS regression analysis shows a statistically significant positive coefficient (b = 24.16609; t = 6.56) when monthly changes of financial stress is the independent variable.
Oceanic salt switch

Salinity and temperature, the two determinants of the density of ocean waters, play an important role in ocean circulation. In today's ocean, the saltiest deep waters derive from the northern North Atlantic. But as [Boyle][1] explains in his Perspective, the situation was very different during the last glaciation. He highlights the report by [Adkins][2] et al ., who show that the saltiest waters then formed in the Southern Ocean. The ocean circulation must thus differ substantially between glacial and interglacial periods. [1]: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/298/5599/1724 [2]: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/short/298/5599/1769
Using the DIRBE/IRAS All-Sky Reddening Map To Select Low-Reddening Windows Near the Galactic Plane

Recently Schlegel, Finkbeiner & Davis published an all-sky reddening map based on the COBE/DIRBE and IRAS/ISSA infrared sky surveys. Using the reddening map of Baade's Window and sample of 19 low-latitude ($|b|<5°$) Galactic globular clusters I find that the DIRBE/IRAS reddening map overestimates $E(B-V)$ at low galactic latitudes by a factor of $\sim 1.35$. I also demonstrate the usefulness of this high resolution map for selecting low-reddening windows near the Galactic plane.
Electron-Scattering Measurements using a Magneto-Optical Trap

Optically trapped atoms are in many ways ideal replacements for atomic beams for scattering experiments. In a typical such experiment, a particle beam ejects atoms from the trap at a rate {Gamma} = {sigma}{phi}, where {phi} is the particle flux density and {sigma} the scattering cross section. {Gamma} is easily measured from trap decay transients. Since the trapped atoms have neV kinetic energies, the method is sensitive to extremely small momentum transfers. Since the beam flux is measured, the absolute target density is not required, removing an important source of error for most atomic beam experiments. At Wisconsin the authors have integrated an electron beam with a magneto-optical trap and performed electron-scattering experiments on Rb atoms in the range of 10-1000 eV. In the first experiment they measured total cross sections for scattering from the 5s state by lowering the capture velocity of the trap below the recoil velocity of the scattered atoms. In the second experiment they isolated the total ionization cross section by operating the trap such that virtually all elastically and inelastically scattered atoms were captured by the trap. These experimental results will test new theoretical methods for calculating total and ionization cross sections. Straightforward extensions ofmore » these methods should allow similar measurements using excited-state atoms (5p, 5d) as well. The techniques should also be readily adaptable to the important case of the metastable noble gases.« less
A Constraint and Attribute Based Security Framework for Dynamic Role Assignment in Collaborative Environments

We investigate a security framework for collaborative applications that relies on the role-based access control (RBAC) model. In our framework, roles are pre-defined and organized in a hierarchy (partial order). However, we assume that users are not previously identified, therefore the actions that they can perform are dynamically determined based on their own attribute values and on the attribute values associated with the resources. Those values can vary over time (e.g., the user’s location or whether the resource is open for visiting) thus enabling or disabling a user’s ability to perform an action on a particular resource. In our framework, constraint values form partial orders and determine the association of actions with the resources and of users with roles. We have implemented our framework by exploring the capabilities of semantic web technologies, and in particular of OWL 1.1, to model both our framework and the domain of interest and to perform several types of reasoning. In addition, we have implemented a user interface whose purpose is twofold: (1) to offer a visual explanation of the underlying reasoning by displaying roles and their associations with users (e.g., as the user’s locations vary); and (2) to enable monitoring of users that are involved in a collaborative application. Our interface uses the Google Maps API and is particularly suited to collaborative applications where the users’ geospatial locations are of interest.
NF-κB activation by camptothecin. A linkage between nuclear dna damage and cytoplasmic signaling events

Activation of the transcription factor NF-κB by extracellular signals involves its release from the inhibitor protein IκBα in the cytoplasm and subsequent nuclear translocation. NF-κB can also be activated by the anticancer agent camptothecin (CPT), which inhibits DNA topoisomerase (Topo) I activity and causes DNA double-strand breaks during DNA replication to induce S phase-dependent cytotoxicity. Here we show that CPT activates NF-κB by a mechanism that is dependent on initial nuclear DNA damage followed by cytoplasmic signaling events. NF-κB activation by CPT is dramatically diminished in cytoplasts and in CEM/C2 cells expressing a mutant Topo I protein that fails to bind CPT. This response is intensified in S phase cell populations and is prevented by the DNA polymerase inhibitor aphidicolin. In addition, CPT activation of NF-κB involves degradation of cytoplasmic IκBα by the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway in a manner that depends on the IκB kinase complex. Finally, inhibition of NF-κB activation augments CPT-induced apoptosis. These findings elucidate the progression of signaling events that initiates in the nucleus with CPT-Topo I interaction and continues in the cytoplasm resulting in degradation of IκBα and nuclear translocation of NF-κB to attenuate the apoptotic response.
Fuzzy Analysis of Geometric Tolerances Using Interval Method

AbstractThe quality and performance of any mechanical system are greatly influenced by the GD&T (geometric dimensioning and tolerancing) used in its design. A proper consideration of the various types of tolerances associated with different components could not only satisfy the assembly requirements, but also minimize the manufacturing cost. To satisfy the design and functional specifications, one has to know how various tolerance patterns affect the manufacturability and assemblability of the designed parts. Therefore, a thorough understanding of how different forms of mechanical tolerances interact with each other becomes a must for designers and manufacturers. The effects of form, orientation, and position tolerances on the kinematic features and dimensions of mechanical systems are analysed using a new approach, based on fuzzy logic, in this article. In this approach, the α-cut method is used with the mechanical tolerances concerned as intervals. The proposed approach represents a more natural and rea...
Relationship of crown margin placement to gingival inflammation

T he treatment of dental defects by the pIacement of full crown restorations suggests that we consider the proper location of the margin of the restoration with respect to the gingiva. The choice to be made, either subgingival or supragingival, is particularly important to the full crown restoration, because the extent of the margin next to the gingival tissue is much greater than that for other types of restorations. However, the same biologic principles are common to all restorations. and therefore, any additional light shed on this problem should be of considerable significance. There are a number of contraindications to the placement of supragingival finish lines. For example, supragingival placement is not indicated when ( 1) the clinical crown is short, (2) old restorations with subgingival margins are present, (3) crowns with facings are to be placed in areas requiring an esthetic appearance. and (4) caries, abrasion, or erosion has degraded the gingival third of the clinical crown. Yet, there are many circumstances where a choice can be made (such as, restorations involving lingual surfaces and posterior crowns) which do not fall into the categories listed above. In these situations, perhaps the most significant factor in consideration of the location of the margin is the health of the gingival tissues in close approximation to this margin. The venerable concept of “extension for prevention” must be critically examined in light of the difficulty in achieving subgingival marginal excellence. In 1925, Gottlieb contended that this principle was not valid. He repeated his statements many times and particularly in 1933 in his and Orban’s text.” In the English translation of this text, the following statement can be found”:
Enzyme-linked enzyme-binding assay for Pin1 WW domain ligands.

Abstract Peptidyl prolyl cis-trans isomerase (PPIase) interacting with NIMA-1 (Pin1) catalyzes the cis - trans isomerization of pSer/pThr–Pro amide bonds. Pin1 is a two-domain protein that represents a promising target for the treatment of cancer. Both domains of Pin1 bind the pSer/pThr–Pro motif; PPIase enzymatic activity occurs in the catalytic domain, and the WW domain acts as a recognition module for the pSer/pThr–Pro motif. An assay we call an enzyme-linked enzyme-binding assay (ELEBA) was developed to measure the K d of ligands that bind selectively to the WW domain. A ligand specific for the WW domain of Pin1 was covalently immobilized in a 96-well plate. Commercially available Pin1 conjugated to horseradish peroxidase was used for chemiluminescent detection of ligands that block the association of the WW domain with immobilized ligand. The peptide ligands were derived from the cell cycle regulatory phosphatase, Cdc25c, residues 45–50. The K d values for Fmoc–VPRpTPVGGGK–NH 2 and Ac–VPRpTPV–NH 2 were determined to be 36 ± 4 and 110 ± 30 μM, respectively. The ELEBA offers a selective approach for detecting ligands that bind to the Pin1 WW domain, even in the presence of the catalytic domain. This method may be applied to any dual specificity, multidomain protein.
STUDIES ON THE RESPONSE OF HYPOPHYSECTOMIZED RATS TO INTRAPERITONEAL GLUCOSE INJECTIONS1 2

SEVERE disturbances in the electrolyte and water distribution of the body can be induced by the injection of glucose solutions intraperitoneally (Schechter, et al., 1933; Darrow and Yannet, 1935,1936). The relation of the adrenal cortical hormones to this response has been extensively studied (Gilman, 1934; Swingle, et al., 1936; Robinson and Hegnauer, 1936; Gaunt, Remington and Schweizer, 1937; Harrison and Darrow, 1938; Remington, 1940, 1943; Cantarow and Rykoff, 1940; Wyman and turn Suden, 1942). Gaunt, Remington and Schweizer (1937) reported that in certain respects hypophysectomized rats differed from both normal and adrenalectomized animals in their response to intraperitoneal glucose. The experiments reported here were undertaken in an attempt to make a more complete analysis of the nature and cause of this difference. Experiments were conducted 5 to 10 days after hypophysectomy in adult male rats weighing 150 to 200 gm. After an 18-hour fast, each animal was injected with 10 per cent of its body w...