cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Discrete-time dynamical system under observational uncertainty

Abstract Discrete-time dynamical systems under observational uncertainty are studied. As a result of the uncertainty, points on an orbit are surrounded by uncertainty sets. The problem of reconstructing the original orbit given the sequence of uncertainty sets is investigated. The key property which makes the reconstruction possible is the sensitivity to initial conditions. A general reconstructing algorithm is theoretically analyzed and experimentally tested on several low-dimensional systems. The technique is extended to coupled one-dimensional maps with the goal of eventually developing retrospective techniques for partial differential equations exhibiting spatio-temporal chaos. Provided the coupling strength remains small and the coupling term has bounded first derivatives, it is conjectured that for dynamical systems with a positive Liapunov exponent the observational uncertainty can be reduced exponentially with the length of the orbit used for reconstruction. Computer experiments with the coupled logistic map are consistent with this conjecture.
MISSE 6-Testing Materials in Space

The objective of the Materials International Space Station Experiment (MISSE) is to study the performance of novel materials when subjected to the synergistic effects of the harsh space environment by placing them in space environment for several months. In this paper, a few materials and components from NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC) that have been flown on MISSE 6 mission will be discussed. These include laser and optical elements for photonic devices. The pre-characterized MISSE 6 materials were packed inside a ruggedized Passive Experiment Container (PEC) that resembles a suitcase. The PEC was tested for survivability due to launch conditions. Subsequently, the MISSE 6 PEC was transported by the STS-123 mission to International Space Station (ISS) on March 11, 2008. The astronauts successfully attached the PEC to external handrails and opened the PEC for long term exposure to the space environment.
Throwing out the thromboemboli.

The thromboemboli in surface arterioles and capillaries of mice are removed through a process of extravasation.
A Supervised Framework for Keyword Extraction From Meeting Transcripts

This paper presents a supervised framework for extracting keywords from meeting transcripts, a genre that is significantly different from written text or other speech domains such as broadcast news. In addition to the traditional frequency- or position-based clues, we investigate a variety of novel features, including linguistically motivated term specificity features, decision-making sentence-related features, prosodic prominence scores, as well as a group of features derived from summary sentences. To generate better system summaries, we propose a feedback loop mechanism under a supervised framework to leverage the relationship between keywords and summary sentences. Experiments are performed on the ICSI meeting corpus using both human transcripts and automatic speech recognition (ASR) outputs. Results have shown that our proposed supervised framework is able to outperform both unsupervised term frequency inverse document frequency (TF-IDF) weighting and a supervised keyphrase extraction system which is known for its satisfying performance on written text. We conduct extensive analysis to demonstrate the effectiveness of the newly proposed features and the feedback mechanism used to generate summaries. Furthermore, we show promising results using n-best recognition output to address the problems of recognition errors.
Inhibition of cytochrome P-450c-mediated benzo[a]pyrene hydroxylase and ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase by dihydrosafrole.

1. Inhibitory activity of dihydrosafrole towards benzo[a]pyrene (BP) hydroxylase activity in hepatic microsomes from β-naphthoflavone (BNF)-induced rats, and in reconstituted systems containing cytochrome P-450c, increased dramatically on preincubation of the inhibitor with NADPH; no inhibition occurred without preincubation. The level of BP hydroxylase inhibition was associated with the progressive formation of the 456 nm dihydrosafrole metabolite-cytochrome P-450c spectral complex during preincubation.2. Inhibition of BP hydroxylase by dihydrosafrole in control microsomes, and inhibition of ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase (EROD) in microsomes (control or BNF-induced) and in reconstituted systems with cytochrome P-450c, did not require preincubation and apparently was not dependent on prior formation of the dihydrosafrole metabolite-cytochrome P-450 complex.3. Kinetic studies established that, following preincubation with NADPH, dihydrosafrole was a noncompetitive inhibitor of both BP hydroxylase and EROD a...
Polycystic ovary syndrome, hyperandrogenism, and insulin resistance

Results from recent basic and clinical research investigations have greatly improved our understanding of insulin resistance in general and insulin resistance associated with PCOS in particular. With this understanding has come the possibility of using new methods to treat PCOS. This is particularly true when discussing the use of insulin-sensitizing drugs. Caution must be exercised in using these drugs because of unforeseen acute or remote adverse side effects. Postulated relationships among PCOS, hyperandrogenism, and insulin resistance do not completely solve the endocrinologic mystery of the patient with PCOS. For example, how does the partial destruction of the ovary (e.g., wedge biopsy or ovary drilling by laser or cautery), which does not affect insulin resistance, result in ovulatory cycles? Why does the administration of excessive exogenous insulin in the case of the insulin-dependent diabetic fail to cause hyperandrogenism? Certainly, much remains to be learned about the reproductive endocrine disturbance we now call PCOS.
Catalytic scavenging of peroxynitrite by isomeric Mn(III) N-methylpyridylporphyrins in the presence of reductants.

Three isomers of manganese(III) 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(N-methylpyridyl)porphyrin (MnTMPyP) were evaluated for their reaction with peroxynitrite. The Mn(III) complexes reacted with peroxynitrite anion with rate constants of 1.85 × 107, 3.82 × 106, and 4.33 × 106 M-1 s-1 at 37 °C for MnTM-2-PyP, MnTM-3-PyP, and MnTM-4-PyP, respectively, to yield the corresponding oxo−Mn(IV) complexes. Throughout the pH range from 5 to 8.5, MnTM-2-PyP reacted 5-fold faster than the other two isomers. The oxo−Mn(IV) complexes could in turn be reduced by glutathione, ascorbate, urate, or oxidize tyrosine. The rate constants for the reduction of the oxo−Mn(IV) complexes ranged from >107 M-1 s-1 for ascorbate to 103−104 M-1 s-1 for tyrosine and glutathione. Cyclic voltammetry experiments show that there is no significant difference in the E1/2 of the Mn(IV)/Mn(III) couple; thus, the differential reactivity of the three isomeric complexes is interpreted in terms of electrostatic and steric effects. Micromolar concentrations of MnTM-...
Numerical improvement of viscoplastic, non-linear, finite-element analysis

Abstract Non-linear finite-element modeling (FEM) for the simulation of plastic forming processes requires repeated solution of sets of non-linear equations, typically using the Newton-Raphson method. The success of this approach depends strongly on the ability to ‘guess’ an accurate ‘trial’ solution which can lead to a convergent final solution. During studies of large-deformation plasticity of a sheet tensile specimen, two conditions made the guess of a trial solution difficult: at the first step (when no previous solution was known) and during later steps (near physical failure) as the deformation became rapidly non-uniform. Several techniques based on an incremental approach to the trial solution were devised to improve the convergence under these conditions. The general method of varying single or multiple parameters in the geometric description, material laws, or boundary conditions while holding remaining parameters constant in order to arrive at effective trial solutions has potential application to a wide range of non-linear FEM problems. The method is described and the benefits are illustrated by application to the study of transient stress-strain phenomena during nominally tensile deformation. For this problem, failure strains were calculable near the physical limit of formability and a variety of stress-strain curves, including negative work-hardening ones, were treated. Without the described modifications, FEM was unable to simulate this problem.
Numerical simulation of the dynamic response of self-assembled In 0.4 Ga 0.6 As/GaAs quantum dot lasers

Self-assembly effects in strained epitaxy have made it possible to grow high quality semiconductor dot structures. Recently several groups have shown good performance in quantum dot lasers. In particular for the In 0.4 Ga 0.6 As/GaAs quantum dot lasers differential gain of ∼ 10 -14 cm 2 and modulation bandwidths of 7-8 GHz have been demonstrated [1,2]. The following observations suggest that the operation of self-assembled lasers will be different from conventional semiconductor lasers in important aspects: (i) the electronic states are discrete - like those in an atomic system; (ii) the separation of the ground and excited states in the quantum dot conduction band states is larger than the optical phonon energy suggesting that processes other than optical phonon interaction are responsible for carrier thermalization and modulation; (iii) the high strain in the system suggests that simple effective mass pictures will not be accurate in describing the system. In this paper, we examine the electronic, optical and dynamic properties of self-assembled lasers. The formalism is based on an eight-band k.p model [3] and a modified rate equations for quantum dots. A Monte-Carlo simulation is also done to compare with the rate equation results. Our results will focus on the following issues: (i) the role of cavity loss and quantum dot density in determining the position of the lasing peaks (i.e whether ground state or excited state lasing will occur); (ii) the dynamic response of quantum dot lasers and the gain compression factor due to Pauli exclusion principle.
Excessive financial services CEO pay and financial crisis: Evidence from calibration estimation

Abstract The questions of whether there ever existed excessive risk-taking incentives from executive compensation in the financial industry, and whether top executives of financial services firms actually responded to such excessive incentives that eventually led to the crisis remain unanswered. The prior research has attempted to answer the second question, however, with conflicting evidence and without a clear definition of excessive. To answer the first question, this paper uses a numerical calibration approach to estimate the optimal level of CEO pay and derive the excessive compensation which provides excessive risk-taking incentives. We then examine the extent of excessive compensation in the financial industry relative to the non-financial industries during the 2000s and whether there were changes in compensation practices between the post Sarbanes–Oxley period and the pre-crisis period. We find mixed evidence in favor of the presence of higher excessive pay in the financial industry, and the CEO compensation practices remained largely unchanged over time. In addition, the relation between excessive pay and excessive risk-taking in the financial industry is somewhat weak, suggesting that CEO compensation might not be a major cause for the crisis in 2008.
Some properties of Markov systems

Abstract We demonstrate some new properties of Markov systems, involving generalized divided differences, relative differentiation, and weak nondegeneracy.
Accelerated infant weight gain and risk for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in early adulthood.

Introduction: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is considered the hepatic metabolic syndrome. Some studies demonstrated an association between small size at birth and NAFLD. Rapid catch-up in weight often follows small birth size and has been associated with metabolic syndrome, but its association with NAFLD remained unknown. Patients and Methods: In 268 adults aged 18–24 years, body mass index, waist circumference, triglyceride, γ-glutamyltransferase, alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase levels were determined. Fatty liver index (FLI; 0–100) was calculated. Associations of birth weight SD score and first year gain in weight and length SD scores were determined with FLI and other liver markers. Comparisons were performed between subjects with and without rapid catch-up in weight in the first year of life. Furthermore, a FLI score (low, intermediate, high risk for NAFLD) was assigned to each participant to determine clinical relevance, and ordinal regression...
Organized sports participation and the association with injury in paediatric patients with haemophilia.

INTRODUCTION: With the wide availability of factor and the routine use of prophylaxis boys with haemophilia are now able to participate in regular physical activity, including organized sports. Current guidelines vary regarding specific recommendations for sports participation and concerns remain regarding safety. AIM: To determine if participation in organized sports is associated with an increased risk for injury in paediatric subjects with haemophilia. METHODS: Retrospective single-centre cohort study from January 1, 2008 to December 31, 2010 in male subjects ages 10-18 years with a factor VIII (FVIII) or FIX level RESULTS: 48 male subjects with a mean age of 14.3 ± 2.6 years (range: 10-18.8) were included; 64.6% (31/48) FVIII deficiency, 54.2% (26/48) severe haemophilia, 18.8% (9/48) moderate and 27.1% (13/48) mild. The majority [62.5% (30/48)] of subjects participated in at least one season of organized sport. There were 77 injuries in 36/48 (75%) subjects. The mean number of injuries per subject was 1.6 ± 1.5. There was no statistical difference in the mean number of injuries (P = 0.44) or target joint formation (P = 0.52) between the subjects who participated in organized sports compared to those who did not. CONCLUSION: In this study, participation in organized sports by boys with haemophilia, ages 10-18 years, is common and not associated with an increased number of injuries or the development of a target joint. As injuries occurred equally in both groups, concerted efforts should be directed at reducing injuries in all patients. Language: en
The fate of basaltic enclaves during pyroclastic eruptions: An origin of andesitic ignimbrites

Abstract Igneous enclaves, chilled bodies of magma with compositions contrasting with those of their hosts, have long been recognized in felsic plutonic rocks. Similar enclaves occur in felsic pyroclastic rocks despite the apparent difficulty of their survival of the explosive eruption process without fragmentation. The occurrence of andesitic ignimbrites with textural evidence of generation by mechanical mixing of felsic and mafic ash indicates that in some instances basaltic enclaves in felsic magmas that erupted explosively do indeed undergo fragmentation and homogenization with their host. Two exposures of rhyolitic ignimbrite that hosts basaltic enclaves, and of andesitic ignimbrite, in coastal Maine demonstrate the set of conditions necessary for survival of basaltic enclaves during catastrophic explosive eruptions. Relatively lower viscosity of basaltic enclaves compared to the rhyolitic host magma permits vesicle networks to develop as volatiles exsolve from the melt and form bubbles. The vesicle networks provide sufficient permeability for exsolving gases to escape the basaltic magma bodies, hence sparing the basaltic enclaves from fragmentation. If adequate permeability for volatile escape does not develop, the expanding bubbles are trapped within the basaltic enclave and ultimately, with depressurization during rise of the magma to the surface, cause fragmentation of the basaltic magma. In this case, the basaltic ash and the host rhyolitic ash homogenize, producing a hybrid ignimbrite, while the surrounding viscous rhyolitic magma behaves typically, with a small volume of the rhyolitic magma retaining its coherence as pumice bodies while most of the magma fragments shortly after vesiculation to become ash. These observations suggest a distinction between the voluminous andesites associated with subduction zones, for which attainment of intermediate composition occurred as a result of petrologic processes unique to subduction zones, and hybrid andesitic ignimbrites, which are spatially associated with bimodal magmatic systems in a variety of tectonic settings and are the result of mechanical mixing of ash during pyroclastic flow.
Interaction of Dietary Metabolizable Energy and Protein in Laying Hen Diets

Abstract Single Comb White Leghorn pullets, housed in colony cages, were employed in this study to investigate the effects of dietary protein and metabolizable energy (ME) levels on performance. The treatments consisted of dietary ME levels of 2.42, 2.64, 2.86, and 3.08 kcal/g of diet with each fed in diets containing 14, 16 and 18% protein to provide a 4 × 3 factorial design. At the 14% protein level, increasing the dietary energy produced a progressive decrease in egg production rate, but an improvement in feed conversion (kg/dozen eggs). The protein intake levels for birds fed these diets varied from 18.3 to 15.0 g/bird/day as the dietary energy was increased. Birds fed 16% protein showed increased egg production as the ME of the diet was increased. Regression analyses suggested a 2.25% increase in egg production for each .22 kcal ME increase/g feed. Protein intakes varied from 19.4 to 17.0 g/bird/day in this series. The 18% protein diet resulted in protein intakes of 19.2 to 22.1 g/bird/day and less response in egg production than was obtained at 16% protein with increased levels of ME from added fat. The calculated protein intake requirement during the first 12 weeks of the study (December to March) was 17.92 g/bird/day to support 84.8% egg production. During the second 12 weeks (March to May) the requirement was estimated at 16.5 g protein/bird/day at 77.2% egg production; while during the last 12 weeks (May to July) a requirement of 13.0 g/bird/day was determined at a 61.7% egg production rate. Calculations of grams of protein needed per egg during each of the three periods yielded values of 21.1 to 21.4 g. Increasing the dietary ME with added fat produced an average decrease of 5.1 to 8.3 g feed/bird/day for each increase of .22 kcal ME/g feed. These dietary changes also resulted in increased ME intakes amounting to 3.4, 10.8, and 9.9 kcal/bird/day for the three protein levels.
Investigation of an intercalation reaction with implications for chemical sensor science

Abstract The intercalation chemistry of Mn 2 P 2 S 6 is investigated with respect to characteristics important for chemical sensors. Questions such as kinetics, sensitivity, and reversibility are addressed. Ammonia gas is chosen as the analyte for simplicity. Both large single crystals and pressed powdered pellets of Mn 2 P 2 S 6 are used. The rapid change in the physical properties of the Mn 2 P 2 S 6 host lattice upon intercalation with ammonia suggests that this type of insertion chemistry is a fruitful area for further study with respect to chemical sensor science.
Electrochemical reduction of U(IV) in molten LiF−BeF2−ZrF4 (65.6-29.4-5.0 MOLE %). Evidence for adsorption of U(IV)*

Summary Voltammetric and chronopotentiometric results at fast scan rates and short transition times, respectively, indicate the presence of weak adsorption of U(IV) at platinum and platinum-rhodium (10%) working electrodes at 500°. Data for concentration-dependence are presented. The variation of the shape of voltammograms with temperature is discussed.
A Formalization of Transition Diagram Systems

The transition diagram systems first introduced by Conway are formalized in terms of a restricted deterministic pushdown acceptor (DPDA) called a nested DPDA. It is then established that the class of nested DPDA's is capable of accepting all deterministic context-free languages. The proof of this involves demonstrating that left recursion can be eliminated from deterministic (or LR(k)) grammars without destroying the deterministic property. Using various structural properties of nested DPDA's, one can then establish equivalence results for certain classes of deterministic languages.
Estrus cycle stage modifies the presentation of stress-induced startle suppression in female Sprague–Dawley rats

Tailshock stress causes transient reductions in startle reactivity, associative learning and open field activity in female rats in an ovarian hormone dependent manner. Others have shown estrogen modulation of associative learning by testing across the estrus cycle and pharmacological manipulations. Here we tested whether stress-induced suppression of startle reactivity can be attributed to circulating ovarian hormones. Female rats were tracked across the estrus cycle and subjected to the stressor (2 h periodic tailshock) the morning of diestrus, proestrus, estrus, or metestrus. Startle reactivity was tested 2 h following the cessation of the tailshock. Using a multi-stimulus protocol, we determined there were differences in startle sensitivity and responsivity. Following stressor exposure, estrus females exhibited reduced startle responsivity. In contrast, diestrus females exhibited increased sensitivity to the lowest acoustic stimulus. The results are discussed with respect to ovarian hormone regulation of the immune system and sensory reactivity during and following trauma that may lead to different abnormal behaviors in females in the wake of traumatic stress.
Scattering from bandlimited fractal fibers

The scattering of electromagnetic or optical waves from tenuous dielectric fibers characterized by bandlimited fractal surfaces is considered. The role of several fractal dimensions is noted, and one suitable for this problem is identified. It is found that in the fractal regime, the Rayleigh-Gans differential scattering cross section as a function of the normalized size parameter exhibits a power-law relation reminiscent of that associated with light scattering from fractal clusters and small-angle X-ray and neutron scattering by porous material. This power-law relation is monotonically related to an appropriate fractal dimension and variance of the fiber surface. >
Distinguishing voluntary from involuntary attention to emotion

Abstract This study explored whether voluntary attention to emotion is distinguishable from involuntary attention to emotion. University students ( N = 166) completed self-report questionnaires, designed for this study, intended to measure voluntary and involuntary attention to one’s own emotions. Moreover, participants completed questionnaires measuring other emotional constructs and distress. Finally, participants completed a dot probe task intended to obtain a behavioral measure of voluntary attention to emotion. Affect intensity was positively correlated with both voluntary and involuntary attention to emotion. As expected, dot probe emotional bias scores were associated with self-reported voluntary attention to emotion, but not with involuntary attention to emotion. Voluntary and involuntary attention to emotion were also differentially associated with clarity of emotion, anhedonic depression, and worry. The results of this study suggest it is important to distinguish between voluntary and involuntary attention to one’s own emotions.
Pneumomediastinum presenting as acute airway obstruction

Pneumomediastinum is an entity with diverse underlying etiologies and variable clinical presentations. We present a case of pneumomediastinum that on initial presentation appeared to be an upper airway emergency most consistent with adult epiglottitis. The pathophysiology of pneumomediastinum involves extravasation of air through perivascular interstitial tissues. Once air has gained access into the soft tissues, it may dissect upward into the neck and distend upper airway structures. This may cause patients with pneumomediastinum to have symptoms such as a sore throat or dysphagia. The patient we describe had such dramatic upper airway symptomatology that adult epiglottitis was the initial suspected diagnosis, and acute airway intervention was required. The various etiologies, presentations, and pathophysiology of pneumomediastinum are discussed.
Search for Quantum Reality

We summarize a recent search for quantum reality. The full anhomomorphic logic of coevents for an event set is introduced. The quantum integral over an event with respect to a coevent is defined. Reality filters such as preclusivity and regularity of coevents are considered. A quantum measure that can be represented as a quantum integral with respect to a coevent is said to 1-generate that coevent. This gives a stronger filter that may produce a unique coevent called the “actual reality” for a physical system. What we believe to be a more general filter is defined in terms of a double quantum integral and is called 2-generation. It is noted that ordinary measures do not 1 or 2-generate coevents except in a few simple cases. Various general results are stated.
Cancer treatment protocols. Who gets chosen

• We compared the age distribution of all adults in New Mexico with cancer incident from 1959 through 1982 with that of all adult New Mexican patients enrolled in cancer treatment protocols sponsored by the Southwest Oncology Group (New Mexico). For all cancer sites, elderly patients were substantially underrepresented in the Southwest Oncology Group protocols. While 31% of all adult patients with cancer were over age 70 years, only 7% of patients with cancer enrolled in Southwest Oncology Group protocols were in that age group. The underrepresentation of elderly individuals in cancer treatment protocols will make it difficult to determine optimal therapies for older patients with cancer. ( Arch Intern Med 1988;148:2258-2260)
Inhalation Aspects of Therapeutic Aerosols

The pulmonary route of drug delivery can provide an excellent alternative to other routes both for local lung disease as well as systemic delivery. The year 2006 marks the 50th year since the invention of metered dose inhalers, yet inhalation is a very much underutilized route of delivery, possibly because inhalation drug development is perceived as being too difficult and expensive. However with proper knowledge these purported difficulties can be overcome. The process begins with identifying the target tissue and then utilizing technologies such as particle size adjustments through formulation techniques and delivery devices to most efficiently deliver the desired dose. There are a variety of new and existing inhaled excipients available to accomplish this goal. The active molecule can also be modified to increase solubility, decrease immunogenicity, and protect it from unwanted metabolism using PEGylation. Sustained release of an inhaled drug is also possible using biocompatible matrices such as oligolactic acid.
MacSigma0-software for SAR image display and analysis on the Macintosh

MacSigma0 is an interactive tool for the Macintosh personnal computer which allows the user to display and make computations from radar data collected by the following sensors: JPL AIRSAR, ERS-1, JERS-1, and Magellan. MacSigma0 provides four basic functions: synthesis of images, statistical analysis of selected areas, analysis of corner reflectors as a calibration measure, and informative mouse tracking. Images, statistics, and calibration measures can be printed or saved in standard formats compatible with other applications for further analysis or for generation of presentation materials. >
Effects of Substrate Type on Demographic Rates of Eastern Oyster (Crassostrea virginica)

ABSTRACT Several restored oyster (Crassostrea virginica Gmelin) reefs in Pamlico Sound, North Carolina, have experienced recent population crashes, potentially caused in part by clionid boring sponge infestation of the marl rock (a calcium carbonatemud composite material) commonly used as a reef substrate and of the shells of oysters that colonize the marl reef foundation. The composition and porosity of marl may make it vulnerable to infestation by carbonate bioeroders, particularly clionid sponges. The objective of this study was to quantify the effects of carbonate (CaCO3; oyster shell, marl) versus noncarbonate (non-CaCO3; granite, concrete) reef-building substrates on C. virginica demographic rates, including oyster density and oyster growth, on experimental reefs constructed along the salinity gradients of two estuaries in coastal North Carolina. There were no differences in oyster density among substrate types through the first 6 mo of reef sampling, although at 12 mo after reef construction, diffe...
Development of a Prediction Model to Predict VO2peak in Adolescent Girls Using the Bruce Protocol to Exhaustion

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to develop a prediction model based on a submaximal workload during the Bruce treadmill protocol to estimate peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak) in adolescent girls. Method: Adolescent girls (N = 116, Mage = 13.2 ± 2.0 years) performed a Bruce Treadmill Test to exhaustion. Expired respiratory gases and heart rate (HR) were collected and measured continuously via indirect calorimetry and telemetry. To be included in the analysis, each participant met 2 of 3 criteria: attain 95% of age-predicted HRpeak, respiratory exchange ratio>1.05, or plateau of VO2. VO2 and HR at Stage 1 and Stage 2 of the Bruce test were entered into a regression model to predict VO2peak. Results: A regression model, constructed using the predicted sum of squares statistic, was developed using VO2 (VO22) and HR (HR2) attained at the 2nd 3-min stage of the Bruce treadmill protocol: VO2peak = 46.77 − (0.2854155 × HR2)+(1.46732912 × VO22). Actual average ( ± SD) VO2peak was 36.2 ± 6.9 ml·kg− 1·min− 1 ...
Race and risk of schizophrenia in a US birth cohort: another example of health disparity?

Background Immigrant groups in Western Europe have markedly increased rates of schizophrenia. The highest rates are found in ethnic groups that are predominantly black. Separating minority race/ethnicity from immigration in Western Europe is difficult; in the US, these issues can be examined separately. Here we compared rates of schizophrenia between whites and African Americans and evaluated whether the association was mediated by socioeconomic status (SES) of family of origin in a US birth cohort. Methods Study subjects were offspring of women enrolled during pregnancy at Alameda County Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Plan clinics (1959–66) in the Child Health andDevelopment Study. Forschizophrenia spectrum disorders,12094 ofthe19044 live births were followed over 1981–97. The analysis is restricted to cohort members whose mothers identified as African American or white at intake. Stratified proportional hazards regression was the method of analysis; the robustness of findings to missing data bias was assessed using multiple imputation. Results African Americans were about 3-fold more likely than whites to be diagnosed with schizophrenia [Rate Ratio (RR) ¼3.27; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.71–6.27]. After adjusting for indicators of family SES at birth, the RR was about 2-fold (RR ¼1.92; 95% CI: 0.86–4.28). Using multiple imputation in the model including family SES indicators, the RR for race and schizophrenia was strengthened in comparison with the estimate obtained without imputation. Conclusion The data indicate substantially elevated rates of schizophrenia among African Americans in comparison with whites in this birth cohort. The association may have been partly but not wholly mediated by an effect of race on family SES.
Brownian Motion from Boltzmann's Equation

Two apparently disparate lines of inquiry in kinetic theory are shown to be equivalent: (1) Brownian motion as treated by the (stochastic) Langevin equation and Fokker‐Planck equation; and (2) Boltzmann's equation. The method is to derive the kinetic equation for Brownian motion from the Boltzmann equation for a two‐component neutral gas by a simultaneous expansion in the density and mass ratios.
More Than Sanctions: Closing Achievement Gaps Through California’s Use of Intensive Technical Assistance

One of the enduring problems in education is the persistence of achievement gaps between White, wealthy, native English-speaking students and their counterparts who are minority, lower-income, or E...
Linear functionals of eigenvalues of random matrices

Let Mn be a random n×n unitary matrix with distribution given by Haar measure on the unitary group. Using explicit moment calculations, a general criterion is given for linear combinations of traces of powers of Mn to converge to a Gaussian limit as n → ∞. By Fourier analysis, this result leads to central limit theorems for the measure on the circle that places a unit mass at each of the eigenvalues of Mn. For example, the integral of this measure against a function with suitably decaying Fourier coefficients converges to a Gaussian limit without any normalisation. Known central limit theorems for the number of eigenvalues in a circular arc and the logarithm of the characteristic polynomial of Mn are also derived from the criterion. Similar results are sketched for Haar distributed orthogonal and symplectic matrices.
Randomized Intervention for Children With Vesicoureteral Reflux (RIVUR): Background Commentary of RIVUR Investigators

Because of the frequency of urinary tract infections in children, off-label use of antimicrobial prophylaxis is often the usual treatment of children with vesicoureteral reflux, and such use is increasingly being called into question; hence, a definitive study to determine the value of antimicrobial prophylaxis with regard to the recurrence of urinary tract infection and the incidence of renal scarring is essential. The currently recommended follow-up procedures (repeated urine cultures, renal and genitourinary imaging, antimicrobial therapy and prophylaxis, as well as other factors including cleanliness, adequate bladder and bowel emptying, and compliance with protocols) are expensive (in terms of time, attention to detail, and cost) and cumbersome. Such recommendations should be evidence-based.
Radiation-corrected open-ended coax line technique for dielectric measurements of liquids up to 20 GHz

An experimental technique and associated analysis are described for the measurement of the dielectric constants of liquids at microwave frequencies using an open-ended coax probe. The analysis includes radiative corrections to the probe-liquid interface impedance. The technique is applicable to liquid and liquid-like (e.g., biological) samples, having dielectric constants comparable to water, at frequencies up to 20 GHz and possibly as high as 40 GHz. >
Ontogeny and drug metabolism in newborns

In pediatric age and particularly in newborn infants the drug efficacy and safety are influenced by the growth and development on drug Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism and Excretion (ADME). Thanks to the fast development of pharmacogenomics and pharmacogenetics, the drug therapy promises to be adapted to the genetic profile of the individual, reducing considerably the side effects of drugs and increasing their efficacy. Interindividual variability in drug response is well known in both adults and children. Such a variability is multifactorial considering both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Drug distribution in the neonate is influenced by a variety of age-dependent factors as a total body water content and distribution variations, role of drug transporters, blood/tissue protein binding, blood and tissue pH and perfusion. The development of enzymes involved in human metabolism were classified in 3 categories: 1) those expressed during the whole or part of the fetal period, but silenced or expressed a...
Technological designs for retention and reuse

At one time, firms designed technological systems for obsolescence. Increasingly, however, firms are designing technological systems to facilitate the retention and reuse of components. This paper offers guidelines for how technological systems can be designed for retention and reuse, and explains why retention and reuse of components have become important.
Wideband source modeling and localization: a HOS-based approach

A polyspectra-based solution to the nonparametric multichannel system identification problem is proposed. As an application, the problems of wideband source bearing estimation an identification are considered. Simultaneous detection and parameter estimation of wideband sources arriving at a sensor array are performed using higher-order statistics. Source detection and consistent parameter estimation are approached via a polyspectra-based information theoretic criterion. The proposed methods, besides being insensitive to additive Gaussian noise, are not restricted to minimum phase equivalents and are asymptotically optimal for non-Gaussian signals with unknown distributions. >
Diagnosis Related Groups, Resource Utilization, Age, and Outcome for Hospitalized Nephrology Patients

Economic incentives are rapidly changing for hospitals under the prospective Diagnosis Related Group (DRG) hospital reimbursement scheme. The purpose of this project was to study resource use, age, and outcome for nephrology admissions to a large academic medical center. Total hospital costs for the 784 nephrology admissions (January 1, 1985 to December 31, 1986) were $5,037,460. Mean hospital cost per patient and mortality generally increased with age. DRG payment for patients in the 13 nephrology DRGs analyzed would have produced an aggregate loss of $483,584; however, all age categories of patients 55 years of age and over generated significant losses (the highest was for patients 85 years and above, $5,343 loss per patient). Diabetic nephrology patients generated greater resource consumption compared with nondiabetic nephrology patients, as well as patients in medical and surgical DRGs with chronic renal failure compared with patients in these same DRGs without chronic renal failure. Older nephrology patients also demonstrated higher emergency and ICU admission and blood requirements than younger patients. This study suggests that the current DRG reimbursement scheme may be inequitable vis a vis older nephrology patients, as well as those with diabetes mellitus and chronic renal failure. Financial disincentives by DRGs may affect both the access and quality of care for groups of nephrology patients in the future.
The Nature of Prejudice Revisited: Implications for Counseling Intervention

This article presents a contemporary perspective on the nature of prejudice and on the counseling profession's role in prejudice prevention. The definition, origins, development, and expressions of prejudice are posited. Increasing race-based intergroup conflict is documented and explained vis-a-vis racial identity theory, rapidly changing demographics, and the Flight or Fight Response Theory of Racial Stress. Specific, developmentally based intervention strategies are presented across the elementary, high school, and college levels. Recommended roles for the counselor in multicultural awareness and prejudice prevention programs are described. Este articulo presenta una perspectiva contemporanea de las caracteristicas del prejuicio y del papel de la profesion de consejeia en la prevencion del prejuicio. Se examina la definicion, origen, desarrollo, y expresiones prejuiciosas. Se documenta y se explica el aumento de conflicto racial entre grupos frente a la teoria de identidad racial, el cambio demografico rapido, y la teoria de fugar o luchar a el estres racial. Especificamente, se presentan estrategias de intervencion basadas en el desarrollo a traves de los niveles de educacion primaria, secundaria, o universitaria. Se describen los papeles recomendados para el consejero en los programas de conocimiento multicultural y de prevencion del perjuicio.
The effects of zinc sulphate anosmia on homing pigeons, Columba livia, in a homing and a non-homing experiment

There is debate over whether homing pigeons, Columba livia, use olfactory information as part of their navigational map. Antagonists of the theory argue that homing deficits noted in anosmic pigeons may be due to a non-specific impairment in general information processing. In Experiment I, we present data from a modest investigation describing the typical navigational deficits that occur following zinc sulphate-mediated anosmia. Our results are consistent with previous experiments that noted impairments in homing performance from unfamiliar locations of anosmic pigeons. Experiment II is a critical experiment that involved a spatial working memory paradigm; this paradigm consisted of testing zinc sulphate-treated birds in a forced-choice alternation task in a T-maze. This experiment allowed us to determine whether anosmic pigeons were impaired in memory performance, a robust measure of general information processing. There were no differences between the last day of training and a subsequent-test day when pigeons received an intranasal injection of zinc sulphate. This experiment suggests that zinc sulphate anosmia does not impair general information processing, supporting the hypothesis that homing pigeons use olfactory cues when homing from unfamiliar locations.
Can the frequency of reduced Varroa destructor fecundity in honey bee (Apis mellifera) pupae be increased by selection

Crosses were made between queens and drones from 16 different commercial sources of Euro- pean honeybees to determine if reproductive rates for Varroa destructor differed. Worker brood from four dif- ferent crosses averaged 4.2 mites per cell and were chosen as the high mite reproduction group. Four others averaged 2.4 mites per cell and were chosen for the low mite reproduction group. A second set of crosses within the high and low mite reproduction groups were made and the worker offspring tested for differences in mite fecundity. Worker brood of the high and low mite reproduction lines did not differ significantly in the average number of mites per cell. The proportion of infested cells with non-reproductive mites also was not affected by selection. These results suggest that the frequency of larval or pupal characteristics that we mea- sured in worker honeybees that might influence mite reproductive rates cannot be increased by selection based on average mite fecundity. Varroa destructor / Apis mellifera / genetic crosses / selection / mite fecundity
Contamination initiated flashover of insulators in generating stations

This paper analyzes flashovers of apparatus insulators that occurred in a 345 kV generating station. It has been shown that flashovers can occur with low levels of surface contamination and is attributed to factors such as, wind blown cooling tower drifts and highly nonlinear electric field distribution on the insulator surface. Computation of the electric field on the insulator surface confirmed that the spikes in electric field distribution created by dry and wet regions was sufficient to initiate multiple arcs along the insulator surface. The presence of moisture in the air gap between successive sheds provides additional electric field enhancement, but some contamination on the surface is required to initiate the flashover process. There is a need for improved models to explain flashover of insulators in EHV and UHV systems.
Zs Associates: Sales Force Sizing

This case describes a consulting firm that is assisting a pharmaceutical company as it faces a strategic question regarding how to determine the size of its sales force. An Excel file containing two of the case exhibits is included and is available by contacting sales@dardenbusinesspublishing.com. A related Technical Note entitled "A Note on Sizing the Sales Force" (UVA-M-0746) is available that describes several approaches one could employ to size a sales force; it addresses the advantages of each approach as well as the weaknesses.
Appropriateness of self-perceived teaching proficiency as a measurement of teaching certificate program effectiveness within post-graduate training programs

Abstract Objective To determine if self-perceived teaching proficiency obtained from a teaching certificate at the end of post-graduate training is appropriate to measure program effectiveness and if the teaching certificate program influenced the decision to choose academia as a career. Methods Pharmacy practice faculty from U.S. Schools and Colleges of Pharmacy were surveyed to determine teaching activities included in teaching certificate programs from a list of 21 teaching activities, if they felt their teaching certificate prepared them to conduct the teaching activities by the end of the program, and to indicate if, after one year in academia, they continued to believe the teaching certificate program prepared them to perform the teaching activities. Results There were 1620 faculty surveyed and a 32% response rate. The self-perceived ability at the end of residency compared at two time points (directly at the end of residency and retroactively after one year in academia) was similar for 15 of the 21 skills. Self-perceived ability at the 1-year time point was significantly higher for four skills (p Conclusion Self-perceived ability to perform teaching skills measured at the end of teaching certificate programs is similar to self-perceived ability measured at the end of one year in academia indicating self-perception of ability is an appropriate measure of teaching certificate program efficacy. Greater emphasis on skills involving delivering a didactic lecture and incorporating active learning seems warranted.
Abstract 3489: In silico analysis of angiogenesis pathway as a prognostic tool in breast cancer

Proceedings: AACR 102nd Annual Meeting 2011‐‐ Apr 2‐6, 2011; Orlando, FL Gene expression profiling studies have enabled us to study breast cancer biology at a molecular level. Studies have been geared at identifying better and comprehensive prognostic markers for the development of targeted therapeutics. With the growing use of anti-angiogenic agents as second line agents, we aim to study the prognostic role of angiogenesis related genes through retrospective analyses of publicly available breast cancer gene expression datasets. Three gene expression datasets from studies by van't Veer et al, Sorlie et al., and Sotiriou et al were analyzed. The data was downloaded from the BRB Array Tools archives and analyzed using BRB Array Tools. Since, we were particularly interested in genes related to angiogenesis; we selected the (CGAP) angiogenesis subset for the purpose of survival analyses. Two endpoints, overall survival (OS) and relapse free survival (RFS), were analyzed. Data for OS was not available for van't Veer et al. A subset analysis for estrogen receptor positive cases was performed. HIF1A was prognostic for OS and RFS in all datasets. VEGF was associated with survival only in ER+ cases. EGFR is prognostic for RFS but not OS. Several other angiogenesis genes were noted to affect prognosis in terms of OS and RFS ([Table 1][1]). Analysis of other publically available datasets will be undertaken to further validate these findings in ER+ and negative subgroups of breast cancer. These analyses highlight the importance of VEGF as an important marker among ER+ breast cancer patients. Thus, anti-angiogenic agents targeting VEGF may appear to play an important therapeutic role in this subset of patients. The analysis provides additional evidence of the importance of HIF1A in breast cancer. This may help identifying sub-populations of breast cancer that are most likely to respond to targeted therapies. Further immunohistochemical validation in in-vitro models will be performed. ![Figure][2] Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3489. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-3489 [1]: #F1 [2]: pending:yes