cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Child maltreatment increases sensitivity to adverse social contexts: neighborhood physical disorder and incident binge drinking in Detroit.

INTRODUCTION: Exposure to child maltreatment is associated with elevated risk for behavioral disorders in adulthood. One explanation for this life-course association is that child maltreatment increases vulnerability to the effects of subsequent stressors; however, the extent to which maltreatment increases sensitivity to social context has never been examined. We evaluated whether the association between neighborhood physical disorder and binge drinking was modified by child maltreatment exposure. METHODS: Data were drawn from the Detroit Neighborhood Health Study, a prospective representative sample of predominately African Americans in the Detroit population. Neighborhood physical disorder was measured via systematic neighborhood assessment. Child maltreatment indicators included self-reported physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. Incident binge drinking was defined as at least one episode of ≥5 drinks (men) or ≥4 drinks (women) in the past 30-day period among those with no binge drinking at baseline (N=1013). RESULTS: Child maltreatment and neighborhood physical disorder interacted to predict incident binge drinking (B=0.16, p=0.02) and maximum number of past 30-day drinks (B=0.15, p=0.04), such that neighborhood physical disorder predicted problematic alcohol use only among individuals with high exposure to child maltreatment. CONCLUSION: The results add to the growing literature that African Americans in the US are exposed to an array of stressors that have pernicious consequences for problematic alcohol use. Our results document the need for increased attention to the potential for at-risk alcohol use among populations with a high degree of stress exposure. Language: en
Modeling Design Spaces With Discontinuous Variables Using NURBs HyPerModels

The vast majority of metamodeling demonstrations focuses on problems composed of continuous variables. However, important engineering design problems often include one or more discontinuous variables that require special attention. Previous work demonstrated the ability of Non-Uniform Rational B-spline HyPerModels to represent highly nonlinear functions composed of continuous variables. With minor modifications those capabilities can be extended to include functions defined by combinations of discontinuous input and output variables of different types, including discrete integer variables, feasibility variables and membership functions. Examples are used to demonstrate these modeling capabilities including applications developed from real engineering design problems such as the optimal positioning of a construction site crane and the optimal lay-up of a composite material I-beam.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
Semi-empirical crack tip analysis

Experimentally observed crack opening displacements are employed as the solution of the multiple crack interaction problem. Then the near and far fields are reconstructed analytically by means of the double layer potential technqiue. Evaluation of the effective stress intensity factor resulting from the interaction of the main crack and its surrounding crazes in addition to the remotely applied load is presented as an illustrative example. It is shown that crazing (as well as microcracking) may constitute an alternative mechanism to Dugdale-Berenblatt models responsible for the cancellation of the singularity at the crack tip.
Archaeo-environmental study of the Almas river: mining pollution and the Cerrado biome in the end of the nineteenth century in Mid-Western, Brazil

This article proposes to understand the environmental impacts of a gold mining exploration in the Cerrado biome or Brazilian Savanna at the end of the nineteenth century in Mid-Western, Brazil. Firstly, the Cerrado biome is described according to perceptions about the ecological characteristics, ecological researches conducted, and mainly according to the ecosystem of the Pireneus mountains our area of research. Secondly, the historical mining impacts of nineteenth century are presented through reflections on the mining techniques of gold exploration, and through the environmental consequences of metal concentration in the area. Finally, the eco-archaeological study of the soil samples from the Almas river area in Mid-Western Brazil is demonstrated, as well as, the interpretation about the emergency of historical pollution patterns.
Use of molecular beacons for the detection of bacteria in microfluidic devices

We present the use of DNA and peptide nucleic acid (PNA) molecular beacons (MBs) as sensitive indicators in microfluidic bioMEM devices. DNA and PNA MBs can be used to quantitatively study hybridization kinetics in real time in a polydimethyl siloxane (PDMS) microfluidic device. PNA MBs perform better than DNA MBs for the study of hybridization kinetics of rRNA targets in real time in microfluidic channels. We also demonstrate the use of PNA MBs for fast detection of bacterial cells in microfluidic channels. Using PNA MBs as detection probes will enable us to develop an integrated biosensor for the rapid and on-site detection and quantification of microbial pathogens in environmental and clinical samples.
Making spring noisier

Abstract Insecticides of Natural Origin by S. Dev and O. Koul Harwood Academic Publishers, 1997. £78.00/$120.00 hbk (vii+365 pages) ISBN 3 7186 5913 1
An hp‐adaptive finite element model for heat transfer within partitioned enclosures

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to describe the development and employment of an hp‐adaptive finite element method (FEM) algorithm for solving heat transfer problems in partitioned enclosures, which has attracted the attention of both experimental and theoretical researchers in recent years.Design/methodology/approach – In the hp‐adaptive FEM algorithm presented here, both the element size and the shape function order are dynamically controlled by an a posteriori error estimator based on the L2 norm; a three‐step adaptation strategy is used with a projection algorithm for the flow solver.Findings – Simulation results are obtained for 2D and 3D natural convection within partitioned enclosures. Results show refined and enriched elements that develop near the partition edges and side walls of the enclosure, as expected. The heat transfer between the heated and cooled side walls is reduced in the presence of a partial partition.Research limitations/implications – The Rayleigh numbers were set to 105 in...
Health and educational status of children raised by a caregiver with a disability.

Abstract Background Research on children raised by adults with disability is limited. Our goal was to provide a profile of the health and educational status of children raised by a caregiver with disability. Methods In 2007-2008, 4571 adults completed the North Carolina Behavior Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) and Child Health Assessment Monitoring Program (CHAMP) surveys. Analyses using weighted data provided population-based health/educational status comparisons of children (0 to 17 years old) raised by caregivers with and without disability. Results Twenty-three percent of caregivers reported disability. Rates of insurance coverage and preventive care did not differ by caregiver disability status, although children of caregivers with disability were more likely to have publicly funded insurance. The majority of children of caregivers with disability were in excellent/very good health (70%), healthy weight (58%), and making above-average grades (74%). Nonetheless, children raised by caregivers with disability appear to be at disproportionately higher risk for overall poorer outcomes. Children raised by caregivers with disability were more likely to be in fair/poor health (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.2; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.3 to 3.6), overweight/obese (aOR = 1.5, 95% CI 1.1-2.0), need medical/educational services (aOR = 2.0, 95% CI 1.5-2.6), have lower grades (aOR = 1.9, 95% CI 1.4-2.5), and higher rates of school absenteeism (aOR = 2.4, 95% CI 1.8-3.4), compared to children of caregivers without disability. Conclusion Children raised by a caregiver with disability show good overall wellness; however, caregiver disability status was found to be associated with an increased risk for poor child health and educational outcomes. Future research is needed to clarify the causes of these disparities and inform policies to alleviate them.
Addressing Social Injustices, Displacement, and Minority Rights Through Cases of Culturally Responsive Evaluation

Evaluation of programs that address the lingering effects of human rights abuses during times of conflict is necessary to improve program sustainability and create a knowledge bank about the effectiveness of strategies. Outcomes, however, are hard to measure. Evaluators have to gain understanding of the roots of a conflict, surrounding events, histories, and cultures. Discussed is the concept of culturally responsive evaluation (CRE). A pipeline program, which supports graduate students from traditionally underrepresented population groups in acquiring CRE skills through apprenticeship learning, seminars, and mentorship, is described. The work of 2 program participants, who evaluated programs—1 serving survivors of torture and the other children of refugees—are given as examples.
The normative origins of positive theories: Ideology and accounting thought

Abstract “Positive”, “descriptive” and “empirical” theories are frequently promoted as being more realistic, factual and relevant than normative approaches. This paper argues that “positive” or “empirical” theories are also normative and value-laden in that they usually mask a conservative ideological bias in their accounting policy implications. We argue that labels such as “positive” and “empirical” emanate from a Realist theory of knowledge; a wholly inadequate epistemological basis for a social science. We use an alternative philosophical position (of Historical Materialism) together with a historical review of the concept of value to illustrate first, the partisan role played by theories and theoreticians in questions concerning social control, social conflict and social order; second, the ideologically conservative underpinnings of positive accounting theories; and last, some indications of alternative (radical) approaches to accounting policy.
Reflections on the 50-year international search for integrated water management

Abstract In the roughly 70 yr since the concept of integrated water management in river basins replaced primarily single-purpose management, there has been increasing question by international science and policy agencies as to the full consequences of such strategies for both social and environmental systems and for fulfillment of the notions underlying sustainable development. The experience suggests there is continuing urgent need for expanding the range of management measures considered as part of the planning process; for deepening the quality of criteria to judge each measure for reconciling the various evaluation principles; and for making incisive, correct post-audits of what actually resulted from their applications. It also reminds us that realization of the full potential of truly integrated water management may be very long in coming. Problems of improved analysis and of necessary institutional reform are formidable.
Cervical burnout and Mach band: two shadows of doubt in radiologic interpretation of carious lesions.

Two phenomena (cervical burnout and Mach band) create radiolucent areas that can mimic carious lesions. This paper discusses these phenomena and provides a technique to aid in interpretation.
Smooth static solutions of the Einstein-Yang/Mills equations

This talk will consider the Einstein/Yang-Mills equations in 3 + 1 space-time dimensions and show how one can prove rigorously the existence of a globally defined smooth static solution, with the associated Einstein metric being asymptotically flat and the total mass finite. Physically this means that the Yang-Mills repulsive force can balance the gravitational attractive force and prevent the formation of singularities in space-time.
Analysis of power takeoff in diagonal conducting wall channels

An analysis of diagonal-conducting-wall MHD channels leads to design principles for the power takeoff and good quantitative agreement with experimental data. The effect of power takeoff schemes on the output power level is investigated analytically. It is found that it is possible to design the electrical circuit of the channel with passive elements in the takeoff region, and, achieve a fairly even load current distribution under changing load conditions without loss of power output.
Interfacial Water Structure on a Highly Hydroxylated Silica Film

Evidence suggests that in order for a surface to support an extensive water structure, it must possess sufficient Lewis cites so that water−surface interactions are favored over water−water interactions. In this paper we use ATR-FTIR to comparatively study, as a function of relative humidity, the water structure that exists on three surfaces: silicon, PEG-modified silicon, and a highly hydroxylated silica film which is formed from the room temperature, vapor phase hydrolysis of tetrachlorosilane. Results indicate that the PEG-modified silicon surface supports a water structure nearly 2.5 times as extensive as that which exists on unmodified silicon surfaces, which is an expected result in light of previous molecular dynamics simulations that indicate extensive hydrogen bonding between PEG monolayers and water molecules. The silica layer supports a water structure that is nearly an order of magnitude more extensive than that which exists on clean silicon surfaces and ∼3.5 times more extensive than is adsor...
Choice and Action: William Ames's Concept of the Mind's Operation in Moral Decisions

William Ames (1576-1633). Son calvinisme provocateur le conduisit a l'exil, aux Pays-Bas, ou il professa aux universites de Leiden et de Francker. Il propagea la logique dialectique de Pierre Ramus (mort a la Saint-Barthelemy). Il tenta d'expliquer le role de la volonte et d'un libre arbitre psychologique dans le cadre de la predestination
Characterization of Electrostatic Chucks for Extreme Ultraviolet Lithography

The use of an electrostatic chuck to support and flatten an extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask during scanning exposure will be a critical component to meet the stringent requirements on image placement errors in the sub-30-nm regime. Consequently, the ability to predict the response of the mask during e-chucking is necessary for the design and implementation of the e-chuck system. This research focuses on characterizing the coefficient of friction between the EUV reticle and the dielectric material of the chuck. A customized tool was constructed to test chuck and reticle samples both in air and in a vacuum chamber. Studies were conducted to identify the friction coefficient at various chucking pressures and to examine the effects of wear caused by repeated measurements on the same location of the reticle surface. All experiments were performed in a cleanroom environment. Results of the friction testing illustrate the range of values to expect for typical EUV reticles and chucks. Finite element (FE) modeling was then used to illustrate the effects of friction on the overall capability of the chuck to flatten the mask. Additional FE simulations demonstrated the magnitude of the friction force needed to ensure that the reticle would not slip during the acceleration / deceleration loading seen in the scanning exposure process.
Localization of acetylcholinesterase activity in young embryos of the medaka Oryzias latipes, a teleost

Abstract 1. Acetylcholinesterase activity is present at the surface of unfertilized eggs and of embryos throughout early development of the medaka Oryzias latipes , a teleost fish. 2. Acetylcholinesterase activity is present in yolk from blastulae and gastrulae. 3. Acetylcholinestease activity is present in cells of the enveloping layer, in deep blastomeres, and in the internal and external yolk syncytial layers.
The normal cholangiogram

This paper describes the measurements of the normal cholangiogram as demonstrated by endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. Two groups of patients were studied. There were 49 patients who had normal livers and no evidence of biliary tract disease. In addition, there were 25 patients with known liver disease and an apparent normal extrahepatic biliary tract. The extrahepatic bile duct was measured in three regions: (1) the common hepatic duct (above the cystic duct and below the bifurcation); (2) the prepancreatic portion (below the cystic duct and above the pancreas); and (3) the interpancreatic portion (bile duct within the pancreas). These measurements ranged from 2.1 to 9.2 mm. Although the common bile ducts were generally quite uniform in caliber, there were instances where each portion was the largest diameter in an individual case. There was a slight increase in bile-duct caliber with age. This study showed somewhat smaller measurements than previously reported and may relate to case selection in this or previous studies.
PRIMARY ORBITAL LYMPHOMAS

Abstract Between 1950 and 1982, seventeen patients with primary orbital lymphoma were treated at the University of Kansas Medical Center. There were 10 males and 7 females with a median age of 61 years. Four patients had bilateral disease, seven patients had disease involving the conjunctiva, and in ten patients, the disease involved paraocular structures. Fourteen patients received radiation with a median dose of 3500 cGy (range 2250 cGy to 4250 cGy) given in about 3 1 2 to 5 weeks. Median follow-up was 10 years (range 5 to 31 years). Local control was 100% and 5-year survival was 76%. Three patients are living with no evidence of lymphoma; three patients died from progression of the disease, and others died from unrelated causes. Radiation treatment for localized primary orbital lymphomas appears to be the primary treatment of choice.
The development of pulsed ion sources with explosive ions emission for deposition of films and coatings with ion and electron mixing is considered in the report

Summary form only given. The development of pulsed ion sources with explosive ion emission for deposition of films and coatings with ion and electron mixing is considered in the report. The deposition of films and coatings with high hardness and high resistance on the basis using this source on the working voltage 50-100 kV is presented. The deposition of TiB(2), W and other films is discussed and comparison with other results. The experimental results of pulsed electron/ion mixing are considered. The main characteristics of these films and coatings are considered. The cluster mechanism of deposition of films and coatings are discussed. The main question of structure of these films on the basis of surface cluster fractal structure is suggested and discussed. The study of structure of these films showed the new kind of structure of these films and coatings.
Model-fitting approach to array calibration

The authors propose an approach to array calibration which can be used in a general correlated signal environment and requires little knowledge of calibration system geometry. A set of measured phases of signals which are radiated or reflected by point targets and received at the various antenna elements can be modeled as a Gaussian random vector. The positions of the angles and antenna elements can be linked to the measured phases. Optimum estimates of these positions can be obtained by applying maximum-likelihood (ML) estimation to the measured phases. A Newton ascent algorithm, terminated by a statistical stopping criterion, is developed for implementing the ML estimation of the array geometry. A tolerance theory based on this criterion is used to evaluate the accuracy of the calibrated array geometry and provide array design guidelines. An experiment is included to verify the proposed approach. >
DEMOGRAPHY AND BREEDING PHENOLOGY OF THE CALIFORNIA TIGER SALAMANDER (AMBYSTOMA CALIFORNIENSE) IN AN URBAN LANDSCAPE

Abstract The influence of urban development on populations of amphibians has received a significant amount of attention in the recent literature. However, few studies have attempted to obtain demographic data on amphibians in urban landscapes. To assess the influence of urbanization on amphibian life histories, we collected demographic and phenologic data on an urban population of the California tiger salamander (Ambystoma californiense) in Sonoma County, California. This population breeds in a single isolated vernal pool nested in a mosaic of urban land uses. We used drift fences with pitfall traps to capture adults migrating to and from the pool over the course of 3 breeding seasons. We estimated the breeding adults at between 65 and 107 annually, which was somewhat surprising given that only 17.5% of the grassland habitat surrounding the pool is currently undeveloped. The study population had similar temporal patterns of migration activity among years. Rainfall triggered migration to the breeding pool,...
Transient Tidal Circulation and Momentum Balances at a Shallow Inlet

An analysis of transient momentum balances is carried out to elucidate circulation, dynamics, and exchange mechanisms at shallow barotropic tidal inlets. Circulation is computed using a depth-integrated, fully nonlinear, time-stepping, finite-element model with variably spaced grids having horizontal resolution down to 50 m. Velocity and elevation fields from the model are used to directly evaluate the contribution of each term in the momentum equations to the overall momentum balance. A transformation of the x‐y momentum terms into an s‐n coordinate system is used to simplify the interpretation of the dynamics and provide vivid illustrations of the forces and resulting accelerations in the flow. The analysis is conducted for an idealized inlet and contrasted with a highly detailed model of Beaufort Inlet, North Carolina. Results show that momentum balances in the immediate vicinity of these inlets vary significantly in time and space and oscillate between two dynamical states. Near maximum ebb or flood, the alongstream momentum balances are dominated by advective acceleration, pressure gradient, and bottom friction. Cross-stream balances are dominated by centrifugal acceleration and pressure gradients. Near slack, balances more closely follow linear wave dynamics, with local accelerations balancing pressure gradients, and (to a lesser degree) Coriolis. Comparisons between the idealized inlet and Beaufort Inlet show broad similarities in these momentum balances. However, natural inlet geometry and bottom topography, as well as the tidal transmission characteristics of the sounds behind Beaufort Inlet produce strong asymmetries. Moreover, momentum balances are highly localized, often with subkilometer length scales. The dynamics are used to explain the physical mechanisms for inlet exchange. In particular, the results indicate that the cross-stream dynamics generate a ‘‘wall’’ along the length of an inlet during the stronger phases of the tide. The wall is established by opposing cross-inlet pressure gradients and centrifugal forces, and it poses a significant barrier to cross-inlet exchange during the stronger phases of the tide but is absent near slack.
Integrating Self and System: An Empty Intersection?

Synthesizing individual and family therapies can founder if the underlying epistemological assumptions concerning "what is self" are not taken into account. Most individual therapies assume self "really" exists as a relatively stable internal entity, the repository of residues of experience where traits, memories, et cetera are organized via internal schemas. Such a view tends to treat self as a thing, and implies that psychological problems are the result of internal deficits or conflicts; this can lead to difficulties in therapy. In contrast, ecosystemic views employ constructivist and contextualist approaches that are more fluid. However, by basing autopoetic self-organization in language, ecosystemic epistemology still separates subject from object. Adopting a perspective in which self has no fixed, distinguishing characteristics can resolve many difficulties and create a dimensionless point where self and system, individual and family, therapist and client can meet without hindrance.
Intracerebral Hemorrhage in Patients Receiving Oral Anticoagulation Therapy

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) in patients with oral anticoagulation therapy is an increasingly prevalent problem in large part due to the aging population and the increased use of anticoagulants for patients at high risk of thrombosis. Warfarin has been virtually the only outpatient anticoagulant choice until fairly recently. The development of subcutaneously injected heparinoids, and more recently, of direct thrombin inhibitors, has made the treatment and prognostication of ICH in anticoagulated patients more difficult. In this review, we will review the current state of diagnosis, prognostication, and treatment for patients with this often-devastating type of bleeding. We will focus on warfarin therapy, because the preponderance of evidence comes from studies of warfarin treatment. Where there is evidence, we will contrast warfarin with some of the newer treatment modalities. We review the evidence of the 4 major reversal agents for warfarin, vitamin K, prothrombin complex concentrates, activated factor VII, and fresh frozen plasma as well as rational treatment choices. We offer possible treatments for the newer anticoagulants based on the limited evidence available. Finally, we review recommendations from the major societies and studies that support early and aggressive therapies in intensive care units with dedicated neurological specialists.
Reassessing Models of Basal Ganglia Function and Dysfunction

The basal ganglia are a series of interconnected subcortical nuclei. The function and dysfunction of these nuclei have been studied intensively in motor control, but more recently our knowledge of these functions has broadened to include prominent roles in cognition and affective control. This review summarizes historical models of basal ganglia function, as well as findings supporting or conflicting with these models, while emphasizing recent work in animals and humans directly testing the hypotheses generated by these models.
RPS/GMM Approach toward the localization of myocardial infarction

Due to the lack between clinical methods and applications used to diagnose ischemic heart disease, the 2007 Physionet/Computers in Cardiology challenge focuses on the ability to identify the segments, extent, and centroid of infarcts through ECG signals and body surface maps. The results from the participants are compared to a gold standard that consists of expert analysis of gadolinium-enhanced MRI data. The main hypothesis in this work is that the ordinary 12 ordinary leads contain the necessary information to identify the segment of the infarct. This hypothesis is tested using a reconstructed phase space and Gaussian Mixture Model approach in order to identify the infarcted segments. Since the challenge dataset consists of only two records for training and two for testing, the RPS/GMM approach is trained on the infarcted records from the PTB Diagnostics database and tested on the challenge data. The final score for the classification method was 1.15 out of maximum of 2.
Shaping Talk at Work: Frameworks for Action

Language and Discrimination: A Study of Communication in Multi‐ethnic Workplaces Celia Roberts, Evelyn Davies and Tom Jupp. London: Longman, 1992. Pp. 422 + xviii. ISBN 0–582–55265–6 (pbk): £15.99.
Minimally Invasive Plate Osteosynthesis in Small Animals: Radius and Ulna Fractures

Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) is a biologically friendly approach to fracture reduction and stabilization that is applicable to many radius and ulna fractures in small animals. An appropriate knowledge of the anatomy of the antebrachium and careful preoperative planning is essential. This article describes the MIPO technique, which entails stabilization of the fractured radius with a bone plate and screws that are applied without performing an extensive open surgical approach. This technique results in good outcomes, including a rapid time to union and return of function.
The US Military Experience With Fresh Whole Blood During the Conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan

Since its introduction in the early part of the last century, fresh whole blood (FWB) has been used by the US military as a battlefield expedient resuscitation method, even after the development of component therapy in the 1960s. In the recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, FWB was used once more, often collected in the setting of a walking blood bank (WBB). Considerable research and opinion from military circles has cited these experiences and sparked renewed interest in FWB as an effective resuscitation tool in the setting of trauma. Despite efforts by the US military to improve the effectiveness and safety of FWB through a series of widely published guidelines, transfusion transmitted infections (TTI) remain a vexing challenge. These experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan will help inform a larger discussion regarding the reintroduction of FWB in civilian trauma resuscitation.
Gene delivery into ischemic myocardium by double-targeted lipoplexes with anti-myosin antibody and TAT peptide.

Gene delivery into ischemic myocardium by double-targeted lipoplexes with anti-myosin antibody and TAT peptide
Sharing of Culture: Adult Grandchildren's Perceptions of Intergenerational Relations:

The current study addressed the sharing of traditions, beliefs, and customs (i.e., culture) between grandparents and grandchildren. Two hundred and forty-six adult grandchildren were surveyed on both existing and newly created measures of grandparenting. Results indicated that extent of shared activities, attitudes toward grandparents, and perceptions of cultural sharing were significantly related. Additionally, it was found that minority and female participants were more likely to engage in intergenerational culture sharing and reported more positive statements about this sharing in response to open-ended questions. Findings highlights the importance of cultural sharing to perceptions of grandchild-grandparent relationships.
Interrelationships between protein phosphorylation and oligomerization in transport and chemotaxis via the Escherichia coli mannitol phosphotransferase system.

Abstract The membrane-bound enzyme II of the bacterial carbohydrate phosphotransferase system (PTS) are multifunctional: they are required for the transport, phosphorylation and chemotactic sensing of their substrates. An oligomer (minimally a dimer) of at least one of these PTS permeases, the Escherichia coli mannitol permease, appears to be necessary for this protein to optimally carry out these functions. Much indirect evidence is consistent with this hypothesis, and recent experiments show that transport and phosphorylation of, and chemotaxis to, mannitol in E. coli involves an intersubunit phosphotransfer reaction, which can only occur in a protein oligomer. Membrane topological studies of the mannitol permease also argue in favour of an oligomeric structure in the membrane which may be necessary to form the hydrophilic channel through which mannitol must traverse the phospholipid bilayer. The possibility that the oligomerization state of the mannitol permease is a target for regulation of its activity in vivo is proposed, but has not yet been explored experimentally.
Cooperative Spectrum Sensing with Ternary Local Decisions

By collecting diversity among multiple sensing users, cooperative spectrum sensing can overcome the channel fading effect. Usually, only the local binary decisions are available for sensing cooperation due to the limited channel bandwidth. However, in our previous work, we have shown that this strategy will either compromise diversity or signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) gain. In this paper, we will study cooperative sensing with ternary local decisions. Compared with the binary cooperative sensing, this strategy can reclaim diversity and recover the SNR loss by appropriate threshold selection.
Identifying race and ethnicity in the 1979 National Longitudinal Survey of Youth

The 1979 National Longitudinal Survey of Youth is among the few surveys to provide multiple reports on respondents’ race and ethnicity. Respondents were initially classified as Hispanic, black, or “other” on the basis of data collected during 1978 screener interviews. Respondents subsequently self-reported their “origin or descent” in 1979, and their race and Hispanic origin in 2002; the latter questions conform to the federal standards adopted in 1997 and used in the 2000 census. We use these data to (a) assess the size and nature of the multiracial population, (b) measure the degree of consistency among these alternative race-related variables, and (c) devise a number of alternative race/ethnicity taxonomies and determine which does the best job of explaining variation in log-wages. A key finding is that the explanatory power of race and ethnicity variables improves considerably when we cross-classify respondents by race and Hispanic origin. Little information is lost when multiracial respondents are assigned to one of their reported race categories because they make up only 1.3% of the sample.
Nocturnal blood pressure dipping and β-adrenergic receptor sensitivity

Abstract Background Blunted nocturnal blood pressure (BP) dipping has been observed in patients with various cardiovascular pathophysiology. However, the mechanisms underlying relationships between blunted dipping and pathophysiologic end points remain unclear. This study examined relationships between β-adrenergic receptor sensitivity and nocturnal BP dipping. Methods Ambulatory BP monitoring took place in each patient’s home. On a separate occasion, β-adrenergic receptor sensitivity was determined by response to isoproterenol infusion. Results Participants with less sensitive β-adrenergic receptors had less nocturnal BP dipping across BP measures (all P Conclusions These findings suggest that β-adrenergic receptor sensitivity may contribute to relationships between blunted nocturnal BP dipping and various cardiovascular end points.
Causal distributed breakpoints

The authors define a causal distributed breakpoint, which is initiated by a sequential breakpoint in one process of a distributed computation and restores each process in the computation to its earliest state that reflects all events that happened before the breakpoint. An algorithm for finding the causal distributed breakpoint, given a sequential breakpoint in one of the processes, is presented. Approximately consistent checkpoint sets are used for efficiently restoring each process to its state in a causal distributed breakpoint. Causal distributed breakpoints assume deterministic processes that communicate solely by messages. The dependencies that arise from communication between processes are logged. Dependency logging and approximately consistent checkpoint sets are implemented on a network of SUN workstations running the V-System. Overhead on the message-passing primitives varies between 1% and 14% for dependency logging. Execution time overhead for a 200*200 Gaussian elimination is less than 4% and generates a dependency log of 288 kbytes. >
The Genger Case And The Delaware Supreme Court

The Genger case, a recently decided case by the Delaware Supreme Court, involves the imposition of severe sanctions upon one party who erased unallocated free space on his computer after having made his computer available to a court-appointed digital forensics expert who had the opportunity to obtain a forensic image of any data on the computer thought to be relevant to the case. The expert did not image unallocated space, which was later erased by Genger’s expert. If the results of this case are adopted as binding precedent in jurisdictions outside of Delaware, important implications arise regarding business practices related to electronic discovery. This paper concludes by offering recommendations on how businesses can best deal with the requirements set forth by the Delaware court and best practices for electronic discovery.
The Origins and Consequences of Electoral Reform in Taiwan

Taiwan adopted a new electoral system in 2005, and the new mixed-member majoritarian system was first used in the Legislative Yuan election of January 2008. As might be expected, the new system benefits the large parties, particularly the largest one, at the expense of the small parties. Indeed, the Kuomintang (KMT) emerged as the main beneficiary of the new system. And given the relative stability of the cleavage structure underpinning the party configuration in Taiwan, as long as the electoral system remains intact the KMT may continue to dominate Taiwan's electoral politics, particularly parliamentary elections, in the years to come unless something drastic (e.g., a split in the party) takes place.
Woodpecker pecking: how woodpeckers avoid brain injury

Woodpeckers are capable of repeated pecking on a tree at remarkably high decelerations (on the order of 10 000 m s � 2 or 1000 g). In this paper, I re-examine previous studies of pecking and scaling effects in brain injury. I find that there are three keys to woodpeckers’ ability to withstand high decelerations: their small size, which reduces the stress on the brain for a given acceleration; the short duration of the impact, which increases the tolerable acceleration; and the orientation of the brain within the skull, which increases the area of contact between the brain and the skull.
Abstract 16607: Pediatric-Onset Disease Does Not Herald Adverse Clinical Course in Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Dysplasia/Cardiomyopathy

Background: In most genetic cardiomyopathies, early disease onset heralds adverse clinical outcome. However, the clinical attributes and disease course in pediatric cases with Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Dysplasia/Cardiomyopathy (ARVD/C) are largely unknown. Objective: To delineate and compare the clinical characteristics, genetics, and outcome of pediatric-onset ARVD/C. Methods: We obtained detailed phenotypic, genetic, and outcome data of 316 subjects who presented alive and fulfilled diagnostic Task Force Criteria (TFC) for ARVD/C at last follow-up. Patients were grouped into pediatric (diagnosis at <18 years) and adult (diagnosis at ≥ 18 years) ARVD/C. Clinical outcomes regarding sustained ventricular arrhythmia, cardiac transplantation, and death were ascertained. Results: Among 316 definite ARVD/C cases, 43 (14%) were diagnosed prior to the age of 18 years. Pediatric cases were 22 (51%) males, with a mean age of 15.4 ± 1.8 years at time of diagnosis. Compared to adult cases, pediatric cases wer...
A Multifaceted Approach to Technology Mediated Learning

A multifaceted approach to Technology Mediated Learning (TML) implemented in a number of courses in Information Technology is discussed in this article. The implementation involved the development and deployment of Websites and multimedia modules, and the experimental configuration of a cyber-lab. The process spanned several years. The experience gained with TML suggests that TML could be very effective in creating an effective and a flexible learning environment provided a combination of initiatives that complement one another is implemented. The technical and functional details of the TML model and its components are presented in this article along with a brief discussion of the merits of TML.
Analysis of the Phosphoinositide Composition of Subcellular Membrane Fractions

Phosphoinositides play critical roles in the transduction of extracellular signals through the plasma membrane and also in endomembrane events important for vesicle trafficking and organelle function (Di Paolo and De Camilli, Nature 443(7112):651-657, 2006). The response triggered by these lipids is heavily dependent on the microenvironment in which they are found. HPLC analysis of labeled phosphoinositides allows quantification of the levels of each phosphoinositide species relative to their precursor, phosphatidylinositol. When combined with subcellular fractionation techniques, this strategy allows measurement of the relative phosphoinositide composition of each membrane fraction or organelle and determination of the microenvironment in which each species is enriched. Here, we describe the steps to separate and quantify total or localized phosphoinositides from cultured cells.
The Demographer and His World

Of all the problems which face mankind today, perhaps the greatest is the so-called ‘population explosion’. Over large areas of the world populations are now growing faster than ever before. Often these areas are the poorest, either because they have few resources or lack the capital and knowledge to exploit them. Often too they have political and social systems that appear quite inappropriate to deal with the variety of problems associated with rapid population growth. In this situation, what can the social scientist offer? At first glance the answer might appear to be — not very much. In fact, however, the social scientist can offer a greater understanding of what is involved in the problems associated with population growth. He can define them more precisely, clarify the issues and so lay the foundations for more enlightened policy.
Carmen Kahn-Wallerstein, Aus Goethes LebenskreisDie Frau vom andern Stern: (Bern: A. Francke AG. Verlag, 1946. Pp. 107. S.Fr. 5.60);(Bern: Francke, 1948. Pp. 127. S.Fr. 7.50).

(1951). Carmen Kahn-Wallerstein, Aus Goethes LebenskreisDie Frau vom andern Stern. The Germanic Review: Literature, Culture, Theory: Vol. 26, No. 1, pp. 65-66.
Metamorphic validation for agent-based simulation models

Effective validation of complex simulation models is often very difficult, especially when data does not exist to perform result validation through comparison of outputs of a simulation run against the real world. This situation is similar to the problem faced during verification of computer programs for which there does not exist an "oracle" to test correctness of the output. Software Engineering researchers have developed an alternate technique known as metamorphic testing, that uses a set of related input-output combinations called "pseudooracles." We propose a modified version of metamorphic testing that can be applied for simulation model validation, called metamorphic validation. Our new approach can be highly effective in building confidence toward establishing the validity of complex simulation models through the systematic process of discovery and application of metamorphic relations. We present the detailed process for applying this technique on agent-based simulations. We then utilize a case-study to show the successful application of metamorphic validation for validating a previously published multi-scale agent-based model of cancer.
Thermoelastic waves in a periodically laminated medium

Abstract The oblique propagation of time-harmonic waves in a periodically laminated composite is studied. Governing equations are those of the coupled thermoelasticity theory for plane strain. The exact dispersion relation in the form of a determinant of order twelve is presented, and several numerical cases are included. Results indicating differing amounts of dispersion and attenuation for various angles of propagation are compared with results from an isothermal analysis.
The Risks of Greening in the Red Zone: Creating Afghanistan’s First National Park in the Midst of Conflict

After two generations of peace, Afghanistan slid into conflict in 1978, turning much of the country into a dangerous red zone. In the midst of this conflict, Afghanistan established its first National Park, Band-e-Amir, to better preserve one of its natural wonders. While such an endeavor may seem frivolous, the environmental planning required to establish the park provided important opportunities for peacebuilding. It set a clear precedent for the involvement of local people in managing their own resources, and led to the central government recognizing and working with a local, democratic institution established to plan and manage Band-e-Amir. It empowered the local people, an ethnic group severely persecuted under previous regimes.
Effects of Diaphragmatic Breathing Patterns on Balance: A Preliminary Clinical Trial.

Abstract Objective The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility of performing a larger study to determine if training in diaphragmatic breathing influences static and dynamic balance. Methods A group of 13 healthy persons (8 men, 5 women), who were staff, faculty, or students at the University of Western States participated in an 8-week breathing and balance study using an uncontrolled clinical trial design. Participants were given a series of breathing exercises to perform weekly in the clinic and at home. Balance and breathing were assessed at the weekly clinic sessions. Breathing was evaluated with Liebenson's breathing assessment, static balance with the Modified Balance Error Scoring System, and dynamic balance with OptoGait's March in Place protocol. Results Improvement was noted in mean diaphragmatic breathing scores (1.3 to 2.6, P P = .001), and tandem stance balance errors (3.2 to 0.9, P = .039). A decreasing error rate in single-leg stance was associated with improvement in breathing score within participants over the 8 weeks of the study (–1.4 errors/unit breathing score change, P P = .118). Dynamic balance was insensitive to balance change, being error free for all participants throughout the study. Conclusion This proof-of-concept study indicated that promotion of a costal-diaphragmatic breathing pattern may be associated with improvement in balance and suggests that a study of this phenomenon using an experimental design is feasible.
A Bayesian approach to Top-Scoring Pairs classification

We extend the popular Top Scoring Pair (TSP) classification rule to a Bayesian setting, with the purpose of obtaining robust and effective classifiers for small-sample, high-dimensional data. We employ the Bradley-Terry model for rank data, and infer its parameters using a previously proposed Gibbs sampling algorithm. The parameters are then used to define a Bayesian TSP score, which is used to select the gene pairs to define the proposed Bayesian TSP classifiers. Accuracy of the proposed Bayesian classification rules is evaluated against those of the conventional TSP classifiers as well as other well-known machine learning methods, using a total of 12 gene-expression data sets. The results indicate that the Bayesian k-TSP classifier obtained the best overall average accuracy rate and the best accuracy rate over the majority of the individual data sets.
Efficient approximate inference in Bayesian networks with continuous variables

Abstract Inference is one key objective in a Bayesian network (BN), and it aims to estimate the posterior distributions of state variables based on evidence (observations). While efficient analytical inference algorithms (either approximate or exact) for BN with discrete variables have been well-established in the literature, the inference in BN with continuous variables is still challenging if the BN is non-linear and/or non-Gaussian. In this case we can either discretize the continuous variable and utilize the inference approaches for discrete BN; or we have to use sampling-based methods such as MCMC for static BN and particle filter for dynamic BN. This paper proposes a network collapsing technique based on the concept of probability integral transform to convert a multi-layer BN to an equivalent simple two-layer BN, so that the unscented Kalman filter can be applied to the collapsed BN and the posterior distributions of state variables can be obtained analytically. For dynamic BN, the proposed method is also able to propagate the state variables to the next time step analytically using the unscented transform, based on the assumption that the posterior distributions of state variables are Gaussian. Thus the proposed method achieves a very fast approximate solution, making it particularly suitable for dynamic BN where inference and uncertainty propagation are required over many time steps.