cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Telecommunications policy and individuals with disabilities: Issues of accessibility and social inclusion in the policy and research agenda

Abstract Information and communications technologies have become an integral part of life in an information society, affecting employment, education and many other daily activities. For individuals with disabilities, equal access to telecommunications remains a concern, as many technologies that are developed do not allow for equal access. Law and policy have made significant progress in some nations, but sizeable barriers remain to the social inclusion of individuals with disabilities in telecommunications technologies and services. This paper examines the importance of equal access to telecommunications for individuals with disabilities in both the formulation and the implementation of policy. Analyzing issues of policy and implementation, this paper discusses policy questions and potential areas of research to better understand the relationship of telecommunications policy to access for persons with disabilities.
Response to Letter Regarding Article, “Evidence Mandating Earlier and More Aggressive Treatment of Hypercholesterolemia”

Drs Koh and Quon express their concerns about our review on aggressive treatment with statins.1 They specifically express concern about the possible carcinogenic potential of statins. They cite the 2007 metaanalysis of 23 statin trials by Alsheikh-Ali et al,2 which reported that within the statin-treated groups, those with the lowest absolute on-treatment low-density lipoprotein (LDL) values had a higher incidence of cancers during the course of …
An Analysis of the Metaphorical Perspectives of School Principals

In this study, the investigator sought to identify the metaphors for administration of schoolprincipals as evidenced in the current literature and to describe the images that currently exist in the statements, beliefs, values, and daily routines of five schoolprincipals. Three metaphors of purpose-maintenance, survival, and vision that characterize the ethos of the principalship are explored. These metaphors appear to have significant implications for schools, for school administrators, and for administrator preparation programs.
A PROPOSED RESOURCE DAMAGE ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY FOR WASHINGTON STATE1

ABSTRACT A state legislature sponsored study of Washington's oil spill damage assessment programs has revealed a number of problems. Studies designed to assess damages following major marine oil spills have not always been cost-effective and appropriate, state oil spill response activities have been difficult to fund, agencies have had difficulties spending damage recoveries in accordance with state law, and laws and regulations provide inadequate guidance on how to monetize resource damages identified. In addition, state agencies lack an alternative to field-based studies for compensation recovery in situations where damages are for all intents and purposes unquantifiable. An examination of CERCLA-based natural resource damage assessment procedures, the civil penalties in lieu of damages system employed by the State of Alaska, and other damage assessment practices had led to a recommendation for substantial changes in state marine resource damage assessment procedures. The recommended approach emphasizes...
Synthesis and study of Ru,Rh,Ru triads: modulation of orbital energies in a supramolecular architecture.

Supramolecular trimetallic complexes [{(tpy)RuCl(BL)}2RhCl2]3+ where tpy = 2,2‘:6‘,2‘ ‘-terpyridine and BL = dpp or bpm {dpp = 2,3-bis(2-pyridyl)pyrazine and bpm = 2,2‘-bipyrimidine} have been synthesized and characterized. The mixed-metal complexes couple a reactive rhodium(III) center to two ruthenium(II) light absorbers to form a light absorber−electron collector−light absorber triad. The variation of the bridging (dpp and bpm) and terminal (tpy in lieu of bpy) ligands has some profound effects on the properties of these complexes, and they are remarkably different from the previously reported [{(bpy)2Ru(bpm)}2RhCl2]5+ system. The electrochemical data for both title trimetallics consist of overlapping RuIII/II couples for both terminal metals at 1.12 V versus the Ag/AgCl reference electrode. Cathodically an irreversible RhIII/I reduction followed by bridging ligand reductions is seen. This is indicative of highest occupied molecular orbitals (HOMO) localized on the terminal ruthenium metal centers and ...
Why can the supernumerary bows be seen in a rain shower

Although the spectra of drop radii in rain showers are broad, the supernumerary bows are caused by only those drops with radii of about 0.25 mm. The angle of minimum deviation, the rainbow angle, is a function of drop size, being large for big drops, owing to drop distortion, and large for small drops, owing to interference. Between these extremes, there is a minimum rainbow angle. The drops that cause it give rise to the supernumerary bows.
Analytical modeling of squeeze film damping for rectangular elastic plates using Green's functions

An analytical method for the solution of squeeze film damping based on Green's function to the nonlinear Reynolds equation considering an elastic plate is presented. This allows calculating the stiffness and damping forces rapidly for various boundary conditions. The elastic plate velocity is applied to the nonlinear Reynolds equation as a forcing term. The nonlinear Reynolds equation is divided into multiple linear nonhomogeneous Helmholtz equations, which then can be solvable using the presented approach. Approximate mode shapes of a rectangular elastic plate are used, enabling the calculation of the damping ratio and frequency shift for the linear case, as well as the complex resistant pressure, for both linear and nonlinear cases.
Use of multiple biopsies for the study of the cell cycle of the mouse hair follicle.

IN investigating the cell proliferation of normal tissue in rodents individual animals have to be used for each experimental time interval and thus the problem of inter-animal variation is always present. This presents a particular problem when the cell cycle is investigated by the method in which the fraction of mitoses labelled is plotted against time1.
Transverse wave structure in detonations

Transverse wave structure in detonations has been investigated using the smoked-foil technique in hydrogen-oxygen and acetylene-oxygen mixtures diluted with argon, helium or nitrogen. The experimental results may be interpreted to show that the nature of the transverse structure is not only dependent on the geometry of the detonation tube but is also dependent to some extent on the heat-capacity ratio of the explosive mixture. In particular, low-heat-capacity mixtures are shown to 1) couple more readily with the fundamental rectangular or planar modes of a rectangular tube, and 2) exhibit a more regular writing pattern during propagation. In addition, the delay to the spontaneous appearance of transverse structure during one-dimensional initiation has been measured and found to agree satisfactorily with a recent acoustic theory for the rate of growth of a transverse acoustic wave. Transverse wave spacing has been measured over a large range of dilutions and pressures in rectangular, planar, and circular tubes for both of these fuel systems, and these measured values have been compared to a very tentative finite amplitude theory based on a calculation of the shock-wave behavior during the refraction of opposing transverse interactions at their intersection. This calculation shows that the refraction behavior is particularly simple in some cases and, in addition, that the theoretical spacings bracket the experimental spacings for two different but quite reasonable assumptions concerning the extent of the reaction zone.
A nonparametric spatial model for periodontal data with nonrandom missingness

Periodontal disease (PD) progression is often quantified by clinical attachment level (CAL) defined as the distance down a tooth's root that is detached from the surrounding bone. Measured at six locations per tooth throughout the mouth (excluding the molars), it gives rise to a dependent data setup. These data are often reduced to a one-number summary, such as the whole-mouth average or the number of observations greater than a threshold, to be used as the response in a regression to identify important covariates related to the current state of a subject's periodontal health. Rather than a simple one-number summary, we set forward to analyze all available CAL data for each subject, exploiting the presence of spatial dependence, nonstationarity, and nonnormality. Also, many subjects have a considerable proportion of missing teeth, which cannot be considered missing at random because PD is the leading cause of adult tooth loss. Under a Bayesian paradigm, we propose a nonparametric flexible spatial (joint) ...
Assessment and Analysis of Behavior State and Related Variables among Students with Profoundly Handicapping Conditions

Behavior state is potentially a major variable that affects the level of alertness and responsiveness of persons with profoundly handicapping conditions. Two studies were conducted involving 50 students with severe, profound, and multiply handicapping conditions who ranged in age from 1 year and 8 months up to 21 years. In Study 1, behavior slate conditions for each student were observed across 20 sessions in classroom settings. Data were analyzed according to profile groups that reflected similarities and differences in behavior state conditions. The analyses also included short and long term measures of state stability. Results indicated that these stability measures further differentiated the profile groups. The data also showed that the students were observed to spend an average of 42% of their classroom time in slate conditions that were not judged optimal for learning. In Study 2, developmental, medical, environmental, and student characteristic data were compared statistically for the profile group...
Biologically inspired amorphous communications

We propose a new type of secure communication systems, called amorphous communication systems, in which the message is embedded in the statistics of the random pulse waveforms. We further apply the principle of statistical matched filters to construct an optimal receiver. We show how the system works and then analyze its performance based on density evolution and Gaussian approximation. We also compare it with BPSK and DBPSK signals with random spreading waveforms and present numerical results. The amorphous system shall support large M-ary communications. When M changes from 2 to 20, the performance is slightly degraded (less than 1 dB)
Abstract 3830: Inhibition of IL-4 function decreases fibrosis and lymphatic dysfunction in a mouse model of lymphedema

Proceedings: AACR 101st Annual Meeting 2010‐‐ Apr 17‐21, 2010; Washington, DC Background: Lymphedema, commonly encountered in cancer survivors, is characterized by chronic swelling and fibrosis. Previous studies have shown that fibrotic disorders involving other organ systems are dependent on T-helper 2 (Th-2) chronic inflammatory changes. The purpose of these experiments was therefore to evaluate the role of Th-2 cells in the pathological changes associated with lymphedema. Methods: We developed a surgical mouse model that results in tail lymphedema for prolonged periods (>9 weeks) and is histologically is similar to clinical lymphedema. Using this model in wild-type and athymic nude mice we evaluated the role of T-cells in general on the development of lymphedema and fibrosis. Furthermore, using a specific monoclonal neutralizing antibody against IL-4, a molecule necessary for Th-2 differentiation, we evaluated the role of Th2 cells in the initiation and maintenance of chronic lymphedema. Results: Lymphedema in wild-type mice resulted in a chronic inflammation consisting predominantly of CD-4+cells with a mixed Th1-Th2+ differentiation. Interestingly, application of this model to athymic nude mice resulted in markedly decreased tail edema and fibrosis, demonstrating that these outcomes are T-cell dependent. While inhibition of Th2 differentiation immediately after surgery did not prevent initiation of lymphedema, it did result in early resolution, with a marked reduction in fibrosis and improved lymphatic function 6 weeks post-operatively. Consistent with this, inhibition of Th2 cell function in mice with established lymphedema resulted in resolution of lymphedema and fibrosis with just 3 weekly treatments. In contrast, lymphedema was sustained in animals treated with isotype control. Conclusions: We have shown that Th2 differentiation is necessary for maintenance of the pathologic changes associated with lymphedema. Inhibition of Th2 differentiation completely reversed the fibrosis and lymphatic dysfunction in animals with established lymphedema, with resultant resolution of swelling. These results indicate that similar approaches may be clinically useful in patients with chronic lymphedema. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3830.
Examining the correlates of male and female inmate misconduct

Researchers have long been interested in how inmates adjust to prison life and what characteristics impact their behavior while incarcerated. The current research will attempt to fill a gap in the literature by evaluating the effectiveness of both the deprivation and importation models in explaining misconduct committed by both male and female inmates using all inmates incarcerated in West Virginia during July 2010. Additionally, the predictive factors of male and female inmate misconduct will be compared using these inmates. This research will add to the few studies that have examined both the deprivation and importation models among males and females, as well as provide possible policy implications that attempt to manage or reduce misconduct, and in turn, recidivism.
Graphene electric double layer capacitor with ultra-high-power performance

Abstract We have demonstrated, for the first time, efficient 120 Hz filtering by an electric double layer capacitor (EDLC). The key to this ultra-high-power performance is electrodes made from vertically oriented graphene nanosheets grown directly on metal current collectors. This design minimized both electronic and ionic resistance and produced capacitors having RC time-constants of less than 200 μs. Significantly, graphene nanosheets have a preponderance of exposed edge planes that greatly increase stored charge over designs relying on basal plane surfaces. Collectively these factors make vertically oriented graphene nanosheet electrodes ideally suited for producing high-frequency EDLCs. Capacitors constructed with these electrodes are predicted to be significantly smaller than aluminum electrolyte capacitors that they could functionally replace plus be manufactured using standard semiconductor process equipment, creating interesting commercial opportunities.
A high-order positivity preserving method for the Vlasov-Poisson equation on unstructured grids

The Vlasov equation is a collisionless Boltzmann equation that is effective for describing a plasma far from thermodynamic equilibrium. The absence of collisions means that popular fluid methods struggle with effectively describing the correct dynamics, whereas methods that describe the complete phase-space, and especially high-order methods are able to capture the correct dynamics. Popular methods for discretizing phase space include the so-called Particle in Cell (PIC) method and mesh-based Eulerian methods.
Micro-optics for high-efficiency optical performance and simplified tracking for concentrated photovoltaics (CPV)

Three-element micro-optical array, enabled by micro-photovoltaic cells, provides simple in-plane fine tracking (±10° FOV) and improves lens and anti-reflection coating optical efficiency. Prototype 49:1 concentration for 400nm < ? < 1600nm demonstrated.
Thyroid function and hyperfunction during gestation.

I. Physiology of Pregnancy FOLLOWING implantation, a series of hormonal and metabolic events occur that help to shield the fetus from unfavorable changes in the maternal environment. From an endocrine standpoint these changes are controlled by steroid production in the fetal adrenals and gonads and in the placenta, as well as polypeptide hormones produced by the fetal pituitary and placenta. There is a constant hormonal interplay among fetus, mother, and placenta during pregnancy. Human CG (hCG) concentrations rapidly increase ensuring a supply of progesterone necessary for the maintenance of pregnancy before placental production is assured. These endocrine changes, including chorionic somatomammotropin production, also alter fuel metabolism, perhaps ensuring substrate for fetal growth (1). Serum PRL levels increase as do levels of CRH as a result of pituitary and hypothalamic stimulation (2). Maternal blood volume increases by 40% above nonpregnant values due to hormonal changes and venous distension tha...
A Dual Germanium Detector System for the Routine Assay of Low Level Transuranics in Soil

As an outgrowth of previous work on soil radioassay, we have developed an automated assay system for determining the transuranic radionuclide content of soils, with particular interest in Pu. The system utilizes two commercial planar intrinsic germanium detectors in opposition. The large area of the detectors (2100 mm2) and the thinness of the detector crystals (7 mm) permit sensitive analysis of the L x-ray emission region of the transuranics (13-21 keV). With counting times of 5 hours, we obtain detection limits of <15 pCi/g for Pu and <0.1 pCi/g for 241Am.
Obesity and Body Ideals in the Media: Health and Fitness Practices of Young African-American Women

This study explores the female body ideal and its implications for health and fitness practices in African-American culture. Employing Patricia Hill Collins's (1986) notion of the “outsider-within,” we analyze a focus group discussion on women's body ideals, exercise, and fitness. Our group comprises 9 young, college-educated African-American women who reject the White-American ideal of thinness, yet recognize that the “thick” (full-figured) African-American ideal is problematic, especially when considered in the context of the dominant culture's biomedical model. Prompted by their examination of popular mass media images selected by the coauthors, the women discursively negotiate between two contrasting cultural standards: an unrealistically slender body ideal and a heavier body weight and shape that may lend itself to the kinds of diseases associated with obesity.
Endometrial Screening of Asymptomatic Women by Irrigation Technique in the Private Gynecology Office

A study was made of 201 asymptomatic women over age 40 (range, 40-74 years) who underwent uterine sounding and endometrial screening by the negative-pressure jet irrigation technique, without anesthesia, in private gynecologists' offices. Introduction of the irrigator was accomplished in 88 percent of these patients. In 97 percent of the successful irrigations, the specimens obtained were satisfactory for cytologic and histologic diagnosis of neoplasia. No occult endometrial carcinomas were discovered. The factors which interfered with endometrial screening by these methods are analyzed. Cervical stenosis prevented endometrial irrigation in 13 of the 24 unsuccessful attempts. Acceptance by the patients was high, in that 74.2 percent reported slight or no discomfort and only 4.7 percent complained of severe discomfort. Although 12.5 percent experienced pelvic cramping after irrigation, no other significant side effects were observed. The results of this investigation indicate the feasibility of using the endometrial irrigation technique for massive screening studies of asymptomatic women who are at risk for the development of endometrial carcinoma.
Large-field substitution Rayleigh matches of dichromats

A large-field substitution procedure for making Rayleigh matches was used to study the color matches of eight red-green dichromats and two extreme anomalous trichromats. Matches were made under three experimental conditions: (1) During the cone plateau period after a bleach; (2) after the rods had recovered from the bleach; and (3) on a blue background. Under conditions (1) and (3) rods were desensitized and appear to be unable to contribute to the color match. Seven of eight dichromats were still able to make unique matches with the rods desensitized. The matches of six of these seven dichromats were consistent with predicted matches for simple protanomalous and simple deuteranomalous trichromats. Matches made under condition (2) were typically more nearly consistent with matches predicted for the rods and the remaining normal cone mechanism, but there were also some individual differences in these matches. The matches of the two extreme anomalous trichromats were similar to the matches of the dichromats.
On optimal scheduling of collaborative mobilechargers in wireless sensor networks

The limited battery capacity of sensor nodes has become the biggest impediment to wireless sensor networks (WSNs) applications over the years. Recent breakthroughs in wireless energy transfer based on rechargeable lithium batteries provide a promising application of mobile vehicles. These mobile vehicles act as mobile chargers to transfer energy wirelessly to static sensors in an efficient way. In this talk, we discuss some of our recent results on several charging and coverage problems involving multiple mobile chargers. In collaborative mobile charging, a fixed charging location, called base station (BS), provides source of energy to mobile chargers, which in turn are allowed to recharge each other while collaboratively charge static sensors. The objective is to ensure sensor coverage while maximizing the ratio of the amount of payload energy (used to charge sensors) to overhead energy (used to move mobile chargers from one location to another), such that none of the sensors will run out of battery. Here, sensor coverage spans both dimensions of time and space. We first consider the uniform case, where all sensors consume energy at the same rate, and propose an optimal scheduling scheme that can cover a one-dimensional (1-D) WSN with infinite length. Then, we present several greedy scheduling solutions to 1-D WSNs with non-uniform sensors and 2-D WSNs, both of which are NP-hard. Finally, we study another variation, in which all mobile chargers have batteries of unlimited capacity without resorting to a BS for recharging. The objective is then to deploy and schedule a minimum number of mobile chargers that can cover all sensors. Again, we provide an optimal solution to this problem in a 1-D WSN with uniform sensors and several greedy solutions with competitive approximation ratios to the problem setting of 1-D WSNs with non-uniform sensors and 2-D WSNs, respectively.
Electron-impact excitation/emission and photoabsorption cross sections important in the terrestrial airglow and auroral analysis of rocket and satellite observations

Abstract The UV line intensities appearing in the spectra of terrestrial auroral and airglow observational data by rockets and high altitude satellites contain important diagnostic information on energy input taking place into the thermosphere. The intensities of the observed emissions are dependent on the atomic and molecular cross sections for both electrons and photons. UV extinction weakens the emission intensity along the line-of-sight to the spacecraft and is determined by the absorption cross sections of the principal constituents: O 2 , N 2 □ and O. An accurate knowledge of both excitation (emission) and photoabsorption cross sections of the dominant atmospheric molecular gases (O 2 and N 2 ) is needed for the analysis and interpretation of rocket and satellite observations of airglow and auroral emissions. The absorption cross sections of O 2 and N 2 are difficult to measure since they are highly structured in the UV from predissociation of Rydberg and valence states. The aim of this article is to focus upon certain outstanding issues concerning the available experimental excitation (emission) and photoabsorption cross section data primarily in the far UV (FUV) spectral region. These cross sections are important to terrestrial airglow and auroral observations of N 2 and O UV emission fluorescence and to critically review the available data.
INTERNET RETAILING INTERMEDIATION: A MULTILEVEL ANALYSIS OF INVENTORY LIQUIDITY AND FULFILLMENT GUARANTEES

Internet retailers intermediate online markets by setting prices, matching wholesalers' supply with consumers' demand, affording inventory liquidity, and meeting fulfillment guarantees to consumers. Little attention has been given to studying the two latter intermediation functions. To fill this research gap, this study examined a sample of 25 mainstream online retailers in some 704 transactions with consumers. The study evaluates the inventory liquidity and the fulfillment guarantees these Internet retailers provide to consumers. Furthermore, it presents a path-analysis model, which suggests that retailers coordinate their actual and promised inventory-liquidity and delivery performance to satisfy the fulfillment guarantees made to consumers. Moreover, the results show that key transactional attributes (i.e., the net price and the number of items fulfilled) commonly present in Internet markets and visible to all market participants impact both the levels of inventory liquidity and the delivery performance of the transactions between consumers and Internet retailers.
Stylohyoid Complex Syndrome: A New Diagnostic Classification

Objective To describe stylohyoid complex syndrome (SHCS) as a new diagnostic classification of all lateral neck and/or facial pain conditions resulting from an elongated styloid process, ossified stylohyoid ligament, or elongated hyoid bone. All of these pathologic conditions result in tension and reduced distensibility of the stylohyoid complex (SHC), with resultant irritation of the surrounding cervical structures with movement of the complex. Design A retrospective medical chart review was performed to identify a cohort of patients who underwent surgical intervention for lateral neck and/or facial pain due to pathologic SHCS. Follow-up time of greater than 1 year is reported in 5 of 7 patients. Setting Tertiary, academic referral center. Patients Patients included were those given a diagnosis of SHCS who underwent surgical intervention from June 2006 through September 2009. There were 7 patients, 5 of whom were female. The age range was 38 to 53 years at time of presentation (mean age, 45.3 years). Common presenting complaints were lateral neck and oropharyngeal pain exacerbated by tongue and head movements. Intervention The pathologic areas were surgically addressed through transoral or cervical approaches. Main Outcome Measure Symptoms following surgical intervention. Results Seven patients (8 sides) were identified as having SHCS. Computed tomographic findings included elongated styloid processes (3 sides), ossified stylohyoid ligaments (2 sides), and elongated hyoid bones (3 sides). Computed tomographic scan, frequently with volume-rendered 3-dimensional reconstructions, identified the pathologic condition. All patients experienced clinically significant relief of presenting symptoms following surgical intervention. Conclusions Stylohyoid complex syndrome includes all lateral neck and/or facial pain conditions resulting from an elongated styloid process, ossified stylohyoid ligament, or elongated hyoid bone. Surgical intervention directed at any pathologic point to disrupt this complex relieves tension and offers patients relief of symptoms.
Dose distributions produced by shielded applicators using 241Am for intracavitary irradiation of tumors in the vagina.

Dosimetriccharacteristics of shielded vaginal applicators containing encapsulated 241Am sources are investigated in this work. Encapsulated 241Am sources emit primarily 60‐keV photons which are more effectively shielded by thin layers of high atomic number materials than the 662‐keV photons from 137Cs sources. With 241Am, it is possible to achieve almost unidirectional irradiation of localized vaginal tumors. The drastic decrease in irradiation volume on the contralateral side (uninvolved with tumor) is observed to decrease dose by up to 20%, even in the forward direction (unshielded side toward the tumor) of the applicator. A possible explanation for the observed effects of shields in both the forward and backward directions is the reduction of scatteredphoton fluence due to absorption of photons in the lead shield via photoelectric effect. Current theoretical models do not include this perturbation effect caused by shields on brachytherapy applicators.
Use of Information Channels in Urban Innovations

When a method of quantitative case histories was applied to 2000 episodes on the sequence of events in installing three types of urban innovations, practitioners were found to make heavy use of both personal and impersonal channels. Types of channels varied by stage in the innovation process. In a simplified scenario the innovating cycle begins with two-person conversations to diagnose a problem, searches for solutions through a variety of channels, appraises innovations and builds commitment through meetings, and implements a solution with detailed workbooks. In the final stage of diffusion, a new innovation cycle begins with the same channels that opened the first one.
Numerical heat transfer model for frost protection of citrus fruits by water from a spraying system

A simplified model is developed to simulate the conditions associated with the protection of fruits from frost damage using water from a spraying system. The model simulates the movement of the solidifying water front on a single fruit, and based on that determines the spray frequency needed for a water film to continuously surround the ice-coated fruit to prevent the fruit temperature from dropping below 0oC. Simulations are presented for the frost protection of sweet oranges (citrus sinensis). The effect of environmental conditions such as air temperature, air velocity, surface radiation and water film evaporation on the development of the ice layer encasing is considered. Simulations show the effect the encasing ice sheet thickness has on the fruit temperature if water from a spraying system is turned off permanently. Experimental tests are also conducted to determine the change in the thermal properties of citrus sinensis for operating temperatures that range from above freezing to sub-freezing. The results of the experimental tests and the numerical simulations shall lead to a better understanding of fruit protection from frost damage by the application of water from a spraying system.
Sex difference in induction of periportal fatty liver by methionine deficiency in the rat.

Summary1. Force-feeding of purified choline-containing diets devoid of methionine for 3 to 6 days induces fatty liver in adult female rats, but not in adult male rats. Excess lipid accumulates in the periportal region of liver lobule. 2. Force-feeding of threonine-devoid diet for 3 days to adult rats also induces periportal fatty liver but without a sex difference. 3. Occurrence of the same sex difference and the same lobular distribution of fat in the liver by force-feeding methionine devoid diets and by injection of ethionine lends further support to the thesis that ethionine exerts some of its effects through interfering with metabolic role of methionine. 4. Since choline does not protect liver against the effects of methionine deficiency, it appears that methionine must play some role in regulation of lipid content of liver aside from its contribution of methyl groups for synthesis of choline. It is suggested that this role of methionine is related in some as yet unknown manner with the action of andr...
What parts of PTSD are normal: intrusion, avoidance, or arousal? Data from the Northridge, California, earthquake.

The incidence and comorbidity of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are addressed in a study of 130 Northridge, California, earthquake survivors interviewed 3 months postdisaster. Only 13% of the sample met full PTSD criteria, but 48% met both the reexperiencing and the arousal symptom criteria, without meeting the avoidance and numbing symptom criterion. Psychiatric comorbidity was associated mostly with avoidance and numbing symptoms. For moderately severe traumatic events, reexperiencing and arousal symptoms may be the most “normal,” and survivors with a history of psychiatric problems may be those most likely to develop full PTSD. A system that considers people who meet all three symptom criteria to have a psychiatric disorder yet recognizes the distress of other symptomatic survivors may best serve traumatized populations.
Percolative model of electric breakdown in liquid dielectrics

A percolative approach, useful in modeling liquid dielectric breakdown, is presented. The dielectric is treated as a network of resistors having random values and breakdown characteristics based on a specified statistical distribution. The method is quite general, and lends itself to the inclusion of internal fluctuations and localized heating. It should also be applicable to mixtures and facilitate the inclusion of air bubbles. Despite its simplicity, the model successfully characterizes fractal structure in dielectric breakdown. In particular, the fractal dimension for a two-dimensional (2-D) lattice as given by the exponent of a power law, agrees with the theoretical value. The dependence of critical external voltage on the internal disorder is also investigated. It is shown that the overall breakdown process consists of the successive breakdown of individual elements to finally form a percolation cluster. The clusters have a typical dendrite structure. Also, in keeping with qualitative expectations, it is shown that V/sub br/ decreases with the disorder and increases with resistor variance.
Effects of signaled and unsignaled shock on schedule-controlled lever pressing and schedule-induced licking: Shock intensity and body weight.

Abstract Schedule-controlled lever pressing and schedule-induced licking were studied in rats under a multiple fixed-interval fixed-interval schedule of food reinforcement. Following acquisition of stable rates of pressing and licking, a multiple variable-time variable-time schedule of electric-shock delivery was superimposed upon the baseline schedule. In only one component of the multiple schedule, a 5-sec stimulus preceded each shock (signaled shock). In the other component shock was unsignaled. Several shock intensities (Experiment 1) and body weights (Experiment 2) were studied. Lever pressing and licking were affected similarly by experimental manipulations, although with parametric differences. Depending upon shock intensity and body weight, rates of lever pressing and licking were hardly suppressed, suppressed primarily in the unsignaled shock component (differential suppression), or markedly suppressed in both components. Differential suppression during components with signaled and unsignaled shock and conditioned suppression of responding during the preshock stimulus appeared not to be functionally related. Differential suppression depended more on the discriminability of shock-free time, and on shock intensity, body weight, and the type of response than on the “preparatory” behavior preceding shock.
Shared Responsibility and Student Learning: Ensuring a Favorable Educational Experience

In academia, interdependence or shared responsibility between instructor and student is an essential part of the educational process, yet research examining its effect on student responses toward t...
Osteoblast Precursor Cell Attachment on Heat-treated Calcium Phosphate Coatings

The influence of properties of calcium phosphate (CaP) coatings on bone cell activity and bone-implant osseointegration is not well-established. This study investigated the effects of characterized CaP coatings of various heat treatments on osteoblast response. It was hypothesized that heat treatments of CaP coatings alter the initial osteoblast attachment. The 400°C heat-treated coatings were observed to exhibit poor crystallinity and significantly greater phosphate or apatite species compared with as-sputtered and 600°C heat-treated coatings. Similarly, human embryonic palatal mesenchyme (HEPM) cells, an osteoblast precursor cell line, seeded on 400°C heat-treated coatings, exhibited significantly greater cell attachment compared with Ti surfaces, as-sputtered coatings, and 600°C heat-treated coatings. The HEPM cells on Ti surfaces and heat-treated coatings were observed to attach through filopodia, and underwent cell division, whereas the cells on as-sputtered coatings displayed fewer filopodia extensi...
Transverse EM fields in a detuned X-band accelerating structure

Results are presented of a study of the dipole EM fields in detuned accelerating sections excited by a point-like bunch. The transverse coupling impedance, the kick factors, and the wake functions are found.
Association of organotin compounds with aquatic and terrestrial humic substances.

Organotin-humic substance (OT-HS) binding constants ( Kdoc) were determined by equilibrium-binding studies using dialysis techniques. The OT-HS binding was characterized by linear isotherms. The Kdoc values measured in this study were several orders of magnitude greater than would be predicted based only on nonpolar interactions with HS (as estimated by Kow). Binding of tri-n-butyltin (TBT) by Aldrich humic acid decreased with increasing salinity and pH, indicating that ionic interactions predominate in TBT-HS binding. Thus, the binding of OT by HS observed in this study occurs primarily through complexation, with secondary contributions from nonpolar interactions. The effects of the physicochemical properties of HS (e.g., molecular weight, % aromaticity, oxygen content) on TBT-HS binding was examined with HS from a range of sources, including a commercial humic acid and HS from aquatic and terrestrial sources. Although binding of organic contaminants by HS has been correlated with various structural features of HS, no meaningful relationship between any of the HS properties examined in this study and the extent of TBT-HS binding was found.
Wireless sensing in hostile environments

Microwave acoustic devices have long been shown to provide sensitive platforms for physical and gas sensors. Piezoelectric substrates introduced over the past two decades, such as the langasite (LGS) family of crystals, gallium orthophosphate, and aluminum nitride have enabled the exploration of microwave acoustics sensing at temperatures above 500°C. However the ability of the substrate to withstand high temperatures is only one of the requirements for sensor operation in harsh environments. Other prerequisites are: the development of stable high-temperature device electrodes; appropriate packaging; and resilience of the entire system to thermal shock and thermal cycling. In this paper, the wireless operation of microwave acoustic wave sensors in harsh environments is reviewed, and recent achievements are highlighted. Particular focus is given to surface acoustic wave (SAW) sensor technology because it has the advantage of being wireless, battery-free, and allows interrogation of arrays of multiple devices. During the last decade, wireless hostile environment microwave acoustic sensors that can detect gases and monitor temperature and pressure have transitioned from laboratory proof-of-concept to commercial devices and systems. Recent accomplishments in thin film technology and packaging are extending the technology to even higher temperatures, beyond 1000°C. These technological advances are enabling wireless microwave acoustic sensor applications in hostile environments including power plants, turbine engines, oil/gas refineries, and high temperature industrial processing.
The Federal Balanced Budget Force: Modeling Variations from 1904 to 1996

Past research on budgeting has ignored the existence of an equilibrating tendency in U.S. federal revenues and expenditures through time. Using time series error-correction models, show the existence of such an equilibrating tendency in federal budgets from 1904 to 1996, and theorize that it is due to the balanced-budget norm. Time-varying parameter estimation methods are then used to reveal substantial variations in the strength of the equilibrating tendency through time. Descriptive evidence from the time-varying coefficients shows that the equilibrating tendency in the federal budget was actually weaker prior to the Great Depression and the acceptance of Keynesian principles. There is little evidence of temporal change in the equilibrating tendency in the modern era due to partisanship or divided government. The results suggest that the balanced budget force is important in changing federal revenues and expenditures, but in a manner more complex than has been suggested by facile theories of the past.
Conservation tillage issues: Cover crop-based organic rotational no-till grain production in the mid-Atlantic region, USA

Organic producers in the mid-Atlantic region of the USA are interested in reducing tillage, labor and time requirements for grain production. Cover crop-based, organic rotational no-till grain production is one approach to accomplish these goals. This approach is becoming more viable with advancements in a system for planting crops into cover crop residue flattened by a roller–crimper. However, inability to consistently control weeds, particularly perennial weeds, is a major constraint. Cover crop biomass can be increased by manipulating seeding rate, timing of planting and fertility to achieve levels(>8000kgha �1 ) necessary for suppressing summerannual weeds. However, while cover crops are multi-functional tools, when enhancing performance for a given function there are trade-off with other functions. While cover crop management is required for optimal system performance, integration into a crop rotation becomes a critical challenge to the overall success of the production system. Further, high levels of cover crop biomass can constrain crop establishment by reducing optimal seed placement, creating suitable habitat for seed- and seedling-feeding herbivores, and impeding placement of supplemental fertilizers. Multi-institutional and -disciplinary teams have been working in the mid-Atlantic region to address system constraints and management trade-off challenges. Here, we report on past and current research on cover crop-based organic rotational no-till grain production conducted in the mid-Atlantic region.
The increasing efficiency of tornado days in the United States

The authors analyze the historical record of tornado reports in the United States and find evidence for changes in tornado climatology possibly related to global warming. They do this by examining the annual number of days with many tornadoes and the ratio of these days to days with at least one tornado and by examining the annual proportion of tornadoes occurring on days with many tornadoes. Additional evidence of a changing tornado climate is presented by considering tornadoes in geographic clusters and by analyzing the density of tornadoes within the clusters. There is a consistent decrease in the number of days with at least one tornado at the same time as an increase in the number of days with many tornadoes. These changes are interpreted as an increasing proportion of tornadoes occurring on days with many tornadoes. Coincident with these temporal changes are increases in tornado density as defined by the number of tornadoes per area. Trends are insensitive to the begin year of the analysis. The bottom line is that the risk of big tornado days featuring densely concentrated tornado outbreaks is on the rise. The results are broadly consistent with numerical modeling studies that project increases in convective energy within the tornado environment.
AROMATIC-INDUCED PREVENTION OF FATAL TOXICITY OF 7,12-DIMETHYLBENZ[a]ANTHRACENE

Large doses of 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (7,12-DMBA) caused the death of rats within 1 day. A small amount of any of 5 polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons or of an aromatic amine given before the highly toxic dose of 7,12-DMBA resulted in survival for more than 2 months and the specific atrophy of testis which follows 7,12-DMBA was largely prevented. Among the protective aromatics is 7,12-DMBA itself; a small dose of 7,12-DMBA given in advance induced protection of life against an otherwise lethal dose of 7,12-DMBA but only in a proportion of the animals, and testis was not protected from injury. The highly efficient inducers of protection were condensed aromatics composed of 4 or 5 rings. Protection of life against toxicity of big doses of 7,12-DMBA by pretreatment with small doses of aromatics required time (ca. 5 to 8 hours) for its induction. Ethionine given a few minutes after a highly efficient inducer of protection, 3-methylcholanthrene (3-MC), abolished induction of protection; ethionine given 8 hours after 3-MC exerted no influence on its protective effect. A lethal dose of 7,12-DMBA resulted in a considerable reduction in incorporation of tritium in DNA from tritiated thymidine while at the same time synthesis of menadione reductase was induced in liver. A small dose of 3-MC given prior to 7,12-DMBA was advantageous in partially protecting DNA synthesis.
Mycobacterium avium complex pulmonary disease presenting as an isolated lingular or middle lobe pattern. The Lady Windermere syndrome.

Background Pulmonary disease due to Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC-PD) radiographically resembles that due to tuberculosis; it preferentially affects elderly white men with predisposing pulmonary disorders (PDPD). Methods Twenty-nine patients with MAC-PD were identified from a community-based population, and the medical records and chest roentgenograms (CRs) of six with a previously undescribed pattern of MAC-PD were reviewed. The distinctive clinical and demographic features of these six patients were identified and summarized. Results All were women who tended to be elderly. None had clinically evident PDPD. The dependent portion of the lingula or its counterpart, the middle lobe, was initially affected. Hilar adenopathy, volume loss, and cavitary disease were uniformly absent. Conclusions To account for the distinctive features of this syndrome, we offer the hypothesis that habitual voluntary suppression of cough may have led to the development of nonspecific inflammatory processes in these poorly draining lung regions, upon which MAC-PD engrafted. We offer the term, Lady Windermere's syndrome, to describe this pattern among elderly women and to suggest that their fastidiousness may be its root cause.
On NDCG Consistency of Listwise Ranking Methods

We study the consistency of listwise ranking methods with respect to the popular Normalized Discounted Cumulative Gain (NDCG) criterion. State of the art listwise approaches replace NDCG with a surrogate loss that is easier to optimize. We characterize NDCG consistency of surrogate losses to discover a surprising fact: several commonly used surrogates are NDCG inconsistent. We then show how to modify them so that they become NDCG consistent. We then state a stronger but more natural notion of strong NDCG consistency, and surprisingly are able to provide an explicit characterization of all strongly NDCG consistent surrogates. Going beyond qualitative consistency considerations, we also give quantitive statements that enable us to transform the excess error, as measured in the surrogate, to the excess error in comparison to the Bayes optimal ranking function for NDCG. Finally, we also derive improved results if a certain natural \low noise" or \large margin" condition holds. Our experiments demonstrate that ensuring NDCG consistency does improve the performance of listwise ranking methods on realworld datasets. Moreover, a novel surrogate function suggested by our theoretical results leads to further improvements over even NDCG consistent versions of existing surrogates.