cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Multiple predictor smoothing methods for sensitivity analysis: Example results

The use of multiple predictor smoothing methods in sampling-based sensitivity analyses of complex models is investigated. Specifically, sensitivity analysis procedures based on smoothing methods employing the stepwise application of the following nonparametric regression techniques are described in the first part of this presentation: (i) locally weighted regression (LOESS), (ii) additive models, (iii) projection pursuit regression, and (iv) recursive partitioning regression. In this, the second and concluding part of the presentation, the indicated procedures are illustrated with both simple test problems and results from a performance assessment for a radioactive waste disposal facility (i.e., the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant). As shown by the example illustrations, the use of smoothing procedures based on nonparametric regression techniques can yield more informative sensitivity analysis results than can be obtained with more traditional sensitivity analysis procedures based on linear regression, rank regression or quadratic regression when nonlinear relationships between model inputs and model predictions are present.
A group-commit mechanism for ROB-based processors implementing the X86 ISA

We introduce an alternative instruction commitment mechanism for a Reorder Buffer (ROB)-based out-of-order processor that commits a group of consecutive instructions atomically to support a larger instruction window. The proposed mechanism makes conservative use of the ROB, by only setting up entries for the instructions that perform the latest update to a register from that group. Further, the destination registers of instructions from a group that do not hold the most recent updates to architectural registers, can be released before the group containing these instructions is committed. The net result is an augmented ROB-based datapath, which increases the effective size of the ROB as well as the effective number of physical registers. The proposed design achieves an average performance gain of about 10% and 16% on the SPEC integer and floating point benchmarks, respectively, when compared to a traditional ROB-based design. The proposed design also achieves a performance gain of slightly over 5% when compared with an aggressive design that uses checkpoints and relatively complex hardware resources.
1026-85 Enhanced Defibrillation Efficacy with an Active Pectoral Pulse Generator

An active pectoral pulse generator can be incorporated in a single coil defibrillation lead system to achieve low defibrillation thresholds (DFT). However, the incremental benefit of an active pulse generator with an integrated lead system has not been evaluated. Accordingly, we performed a prospective trial of a 65 cc pulse generator shell with an Endotak lead in 22 consecutive pts undergoing defibrillator implantation. Energy (E) and leading edge voltage (V) at DFT was measured using a step down protocol to first failure with biphasic waveforms (60:40 tilt). Either lead alone (proximal coil = anode) or lead + shell (proximal coil and shell = anode) were tested with paired testing in random order. E(joules) V(volts) R(ohms) Lead alone 13.1 ± 6.7 395 ± 105 49 ± 5 Lead + Shell 8.5 ± 3.1 * 319 ± 61 * 42 ± 4 * * p l 0.001 A DFT of ≤ 10J was found in 50% (11/22) of patients with lead alone and 86% (19/22) of patients with lead + shell (p l 0.02) In conclusion adding an active pulse generator to an integrated transvenous lead significantly reduced DFTs and system impedance (R). The consistently low defibrillation energy requirements with the use of an active small pectoral shell, makes the development of a defibrillator with reduced size and lower maximal output feasible.
A review of electron bombardment thruster systems/spacecraft field and particle interfaces

Information on the field and particle interfaces of electron bombardment ion thruster systems was summarized. Major areas discussed were the nonpropellant particles, neutral propellant, ion beam, low energy plasma, and fields. Spacecraft functions and subsystems reviewed were solar arrays, thermal control systems, optical sensors, communications, science, structures and materials, and potential control.
Flow Tagging Velocimetry Using Caged Dye Photo-Activated Fluorophores

The use of caged dye photo-activated fluorophore velocimetry is described and representative examples are presented. After a brief survey of recently reported measurements, a more detailed example of the flow produced in a cylinder with a single rotating end wall is presented. Simultaneous stereoscopic image sets in the (r,z) and (r,θ) planes have been obtained over a Reynolds number range of roughly 102-105. At low Reynolds numbers (0-2000), the steady, axisymmetrical flow is found to quantitatively agree with predictions from a numerical flow solver. At higher Reynolds numbers (from 5×103 to 105), the flow develops considerable turbulent three-dimensional structure.
A segment contribution method for the vapor pressure of tall-oil chemicals

A segment-contribution method for the estimation of vapor pressure of large, oligomeric molecules encountered in oleochemical industry is described. The method makes use of segment composition, number of segments, and four parameters per segment to estimate vapor pressure as a function of temperature. For major components that occur in crude tall-oil (CTO) distillation, the optimum parameters are reported and the method is shown to be accurate. The open architecture of this segment contribution approach permits the use of new segments, or the treatment of whole molecules as segments if necessary.
Fast motion vector estimation with a Markov model for MPEG

This paper presents a new approach for motion vector estimation. We first propose a stochastic model to describe the temporal correlation of motion vectors. We show that the optimal motion vectors can be obtained through maximum a posteriori sequence estimation method. This method is however not practically implementable due to its high computational complexity and many unknown modeling parameters. However, motivated by this theoretical framework, we propose a modified algorithm which is simple, accurate, and fast. First a set of good motion vector candidates is determined. By examining the distribution of these motion vector candidates, we can estimate the noise level as well as select the best motion vector by using the temporal correlations. Then, the next search window can be predicted by examining the trend of the motion vector variation and the noise level (a higher noise level leading to a large search window). In this way, we can reduce the search operation up to less than 0.5% compared to full block search. The excellent performance of the proposed algorithm is demonstrated through extensive experiments.© (1995) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
From ghetto to emancipation: the role of Moisè Formiggini

The move toward emancipation of the Jewish ghetto society of late eighteenth-century Modena can be traced by studying its leader, the merchant Moise Formiggini, and his advocacy of full political rights following the Napoleonic conquest of October 1796. Though not unprepared to deal with the novel freedom Napoleon brought, Modenese Jewry’s path toward emancipation was not straightforward. Officially, in Modena, there had been no Jewish question, no public debate. Yet though the Este Dukes granted the Jewish elite extensive liberties, they refused to give them civil rights. In a speech delivered in front of the new Modenese government, Formiggini drew from earlier Jewish apologetic works by Simone Luzzatto, Isaac de Pinto, Jacob Saraval, Benedetto Frizzi, and Isaac Valabregue extolling Jewish commercial utility. But Formiggini did not discuss Jewish regeneration and never distinguished between Ashkenazim and Sephardim. He asked that Jews be recognized as “active citizens,” which included the responsibility of voting, the ability to hold public office, and access to university education and the liberal professions, and demonstrated awareness of legal rights obtained by Jews in 1791. Yet Formiggini and other leading Jews acted from within the community and held fast to their Jewish identity. By negotiating between gradual civil modernization and maintaining traditional communal networks and institutions, Modenese Jews moved gradually toward a new civil world.
Ambiguous States: Confucius Institutes and Chinese Soft Power in the U.S. Classroom

This article offers an ethnographic examination of representations and perceptions of the Chinese state as manifest through Confucius Institutes in the United States. Confucius Institutes are Chinese language and culture programs that are funded and staffed by the Chinese government. Confucius Institutes are a constituent part of China's soft power policy efforts to communicate to the world that its cultural tradition stresses harmony and that its rise to power will be a peaceful and globally responsible process. Through analyzing parent and student perceptions of “the state” through their experiences with Confucius Institute teachers and pedagogical materials, it is possible to contextualize and problematize the means through which Cold War rhetoric is recast and recirculated in the contemporary “post-Cold War” historical moment, thus interrogating assumptions about essentialized Chinese difference. This research reveals how understandings of a newly empowered China cast the nation as a threat to U.S. economic and political power in a manner that negates China's soft power efforts, dislocating policy intention and effect. At the same time, this research suggests that as Confucius Institute teachers distance themselves from perceptions of an authoritarian state, parents and students begin to disaggregate perceptions of a monolithic Chinese state in a manner that reinforces the state's soft power goals.
REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION OF CYCLOOXYGENASE-2 IN THE HIPPOCAMPAL FORMATION IN ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE

Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), a key enzyme in prostanoid biosynthesis, may represent an important therapeutic target in Alzheimer's disease (AD). In the present study, we explored the regulation of COX-2 in the hippocampal formation in sporadic AD. Using semiquantitative immunocytochemical techniques, we found that in AD cases (vs. age-matched controls) neurons of the CA1-CA4 subdivisions of the hippocampal pyramidal layer showed elevation of COX-2 signal; COX-2 levels correlated with amyloid plaque density. In contrast, the level of COX-2 immunostaining in the dentate gyrus granule neurons was not elevated in AD. No expression of COX-2 in cells with glial morphology was found in any case examined. In parallel, in vitro studies found that neurons derived from transgenic mice with neuronal overexpression of COX-2 are more susceptible to beta-amyloid (Abeta) toxicity, with potentiation of redox impairment. The results indicate elevated expression of neuronal COX-2 in subregions of the hippocampal formation in AD and that such elevation may potentiate Abeta-mediated oxidative stress.
The Fate of Cannibalized Fundamental-Plane Elliptical Galaxies

Evolution and disruption of galaxies orbiting in the gravitational field of a larger cluster galaxy are driven by three coupled mechanisms: (1) tidal heating due to its time-dependent motion in the primary; (2) mass loss due to the tidal strain field; and (3) orbital decay. Previous work demonstrated that tidal heating is effective well inside the impulse approximation limit. Not only does the overall energy increase over previous predictions, but the work is done deep inside the secondary galaxy, e.g., at or inside the half-mass radius in most cases. Here these ideas applied to cannibalization of elliptical galaxies with fundamental-plane parameters. In summary, satellites with masses between 0.1% and 10% of a cluster giant are evaporated or significantly evolved by internal heating as they sink to the center. This suggests that long-lived merger-produced multiple nuclei giants should be rare. The precise location of the survival-evaporation boundary and the central concentration of the stripped-mass profile depend on the rate of orbital decay. Large secondaries evaporate preferentially, provided the orbital decay takes place over roughly five or more orbits. We estimate that secondaries with mass ratios as small as 1% on any initial orbit evaporate, and those on eccentric orbits with mass ratios as small as 0.1% evolve significantly and nearly evaporate in a galactic age. Captured satellites with mass ratios smaller than roughly 1% have insufficient time to decay to the center. After many accretion events, the model predicts that the merged system has a profile similar to that of the original primary with a weak increase in concentration.
New Genus and Species of Diaspididae from Conifers

A new genus of Diaspididae, Paracupidaspis, is described and assigned to the tribe Diaspidini. The adult female and 1st and 2nd instars of the type-species, P. wilkeyi n. sp., are described and in part illustrated. The new species was collected on coniferous hosts in California, Arizona, Kansas, and New Mexico.
Reinforcement contexts effects on fixed-interval responding

Three rats responding on fixed-interval schedules received either 1 or 4 pellets at the end of 2-min intervals. Five experimental conditions manipulated the relative probabilities of these two reinforcers. Response rates following the 1-pellet reinforcer were always higher than the rates following the 4-pellet reinforcer. The rates after the 1-pellet reinforcer were also highest in those experimental conditions where it was delivered with low probability. Contrast effects were observed when two sequential fixed intervals differed in reinforcer magnitudes. It was concluded that the context of reinforcement as well as the specific reinforcer magnitude affects responding under fixed-interval schedules.
Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy as Primary Treatment for Elderly Patients with Medically Inoperable Head and Neck Cancer

Purpose: With a growing elderly population, elderly patients with head-and-neck cancers represent an increasing challenge with limited prospective data to guide management. The complex interplay between advanced age, associated comorbidities, and conventional local therapies such as surgery and external beam radiotherapy ± chemotherapy, can significantly impact elderly patients’ quality-of-life (QOL). SBRT is a well-established curative strategy for medical-inoperable early-stage lung cancers even in elderly populations; however there is limited data examining SBRT as primary therapy in head-and-neck cancer. Material/Methods: Twelve patients with medically-inoperable head-and-neck cancer treated with SBRT ± cetuximab from 2002 through 2013 were retrospectively reviewed. SBRT consisted of primarily 44Gy in 5 fractions delivered on alternating days over 1-2 weeks. Concurrent cetuximab was administer at a dose of 400mg/m2 on day -7 followed by 250mg/m2 on day 0 and +7 in n=3 (25%). Patient reported quality-of-life (PRQoL) was prospectively recorded using the previously-validated University-of-Washington Quality-of-Life Revised (UW-QoL-R). Results: Median clinical follow-up was 6-months (range: 0.5 – 29 months). The 1-year actuarial local progression-free survival, distant progression-free survival, progression-free survival, and overall survival for definitively treated patients were 69%, 100%, 69% and 64%, respectively. One patient (8%) experienced acute grade 3 dysphagia and one patient (8%) experienced late grade 3 mucositis; there were no grade 4-5 toxicities. Prospective collection of patient report quality-of-life as assessed by UW-QoL-R was preserved across domains. Conclusion: SBRT shows encouraging survival and relatively low toxicity in elderly patients with unresectable head-and-neck cancer; which may provide an aggressive potentially curative local therapy while maintaining quality-of-life.
Ground state spin orderings of the triangular Ising model with the nearest and next nearest neighbor interaction

Abstract Low temperature Monte Carlo results are used as an indicator of the size of the repeating unit. An energy minimization is then carried out for a number of configurations. It is proposed that, in the presence of a magnetic field, there are five spin orderings according to the relative sizes of the exchange integrals.
THE ROLE OF BIG BUSINESS IN THE ECONOMIC INTEGRATION OF LATIN AMERICA

In light of the current trend toward economic integration in Latin America, this paper examines the role that big business plays in export development. The analysis is primarily descriptive and focuses on three factors: the type of industry, ownership, and value of exports of the 300 largest companies in Latin America. The results indicate that state, private and foreign firms each dominate in particular types of industries. Contrary to the popular assumption that economic integration necessarily leads to development, these results suggest the need for changes in public policy in regard to the current structure of big business in Latin America and its role in export-led development.
Raphe unit activity in freely moving cats: Effects of benzodiazepines

Abstract Benzodiazepines (chlordiazepoxide and diazepam) produced a dose-dependent decrease in the discharge rate of serotonin-containing neurons in the dorsal raphe nucleus of freely moving cats. This ranged from no significant change at doses of 0.5 and 1.0mg/kg (i.p.), to greater than 90% reductions in unit activity at 10 mg/kg. The effects of benzodiazepines on raphe units occurred within 15–30 min of injection and the duration of action was dose-dependent and lasted from 1 to more than 6 hr. Doses of benzodiazepines that significantly decreased raphe unit activity (i.e. 2.5–10 mg/kg) also produced ataxia and decreased EMG activity. These data suggest that benzodiazepine-induced suppression of raphe unit activity is closely related to general motor behavior. Raphe unit activity remained suppressed during phasic increases in EMG activity during eating, grooming, or predatory behavior, suggesting that benzodiazepines also have a direct inhibitory action on raphe cells. The present results are discussed in the context of the serotonergic hypothesis of anxiety.
Power/energy: Rebirth for nuclear fuel: Reprocessing is `in¿ again; if so, the debate will center on conserving nuclear fuels and the question of nuclear proliferation

Reprocessing may be `in' again; if so, the debate will center on conserving nuclear fuels and the question of nuclear proliferation.
A Note on the Efficient Pricing of Public Goods

It has been concluded by some that no positive price for a public good is con-sistent with consumption efficiency as it will discourage consumption that could be provided at zero cost. It is argued here that this conclusion is m error because it fails to distinguish between two distinct components ofpublic good consumption: (1) the quantity of the good made available, and (2) the duration of the use of what is available. By developing a model which explicitly considers these two components of consumption it is shown that a pattern of positive "entry" prices exists which will motivate efficiency in both the consumption and provision of a public good.
Bromide and other ions in the snow, firn air, and atmospheric boundary layer at Summit during GSHOX

Abstract. Measurements of gas phase soluble bromide in the boundary layer and in firn air, and Br− in aerosol and snow, were made at Summit, Greenland (72.5° N, 38.4° W, 3200 m a.s.l.) as part of a larger investigation into the influence of Br chemistry on HOx cycling. The soluble bromide measurements confirm that photochemical activation of Br− in the snow causes release of active Br to the overlying air despite trace concentrations of Br− in the snow (means 15 and 8 nmol Br− kg−1 of snow in 2007 and 2008, respectively). Mixing ratios of soluble bromide above the snow were also found to be very small (mean
Use of national food balance data to estimate the adequacy of zinc in national food supplies: methodology and regional estimates.

ObjectivesAdequate zinc nutriture is critically important for human health, but the development of programmes to control zinc deficiency is limited by the lack of reliable information on population zinc status. The present analyses were conducted to: (1) estimate the absorbable zinc content of national food supplies; (2) compare this information with theoretical population requirements for zinc; and (3) use these results to predict national risks of inadequate zinc intake.Setting and design: National food balance data were obtained for 176 countries from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. The amount of absorbable zinc in these foods was estimated from food composition data, and zinc absorption was predicted using a model developed by the International Zinc Nutrition Consultative Group (IZiNCG). Demographic data were obtained from United Nations estimates, and age- and sex-specific physiological requirements for absorbable zinc were estimated using IZiNCG recommendations.Results and conclusions: The mean per capita absorbable zinc content of national food supplies ranged from 2.98–3.01 mg day−1 in Western Europe and USA & Canada to 2.09 mg day−1 in Southeast Asia. The estimated percentage of individuals at risk of inadequate zinc intake ranged from 9.3–9.5% in the regions of North Africa & Eastern Mediterranean and USA & Canada to 33.1% in Southeast Asia. Overall, approximately 20.5% of the world's population is estimated to be at risk of inadequate zinc intake. Data on the absorbable zinc content of national food supplies can be used to determine whether further assessments of population zinc status and development of intervention programmes are warranted.
Directional audio beacon deployment: an assistive multi-robot application

This paper addresses the problem of directional audio beacon deployment. We describe how these beacons can be used on mobile robots to produce a system that can self-deploy and aid in disaster recovery efforts. A distributed algorithm that uses explicit communication to coordinate the deployment process is presented. The algorithm employs existing multi-robot task allocation methodologies and a procedure for clustering potential deployment locations in a problem domain-specific manner. Results from a sensor-based multi-robot simulation demonstrate that self-deploying beacons are indeed feasible and have the potential to decrease expected egress time. Furthermore, we show that the implementation is free of simulator-specific anomalies through trials with a group of physical robots.
Range of cumulative sums, I. Exact and approximate expected values

Abstract The storage problem of within-the-year water fluctuations is studied here under the assumption of infinite storage. Therefore, the storage of a reservoir is given by the range or adjusted range of partial sums of random variables. This paper gives some results concerning the expected value of the range when the partial sums are composed of non-identically distributed normal variables. Using the univariate, bivariate and trivariate normal distribution functions for the marginal and joint distributions of the partial sums, the exact expressions of the expected range are derived for n = 1, 2, and 3 . From these general expressions, particular cases of the expected range of independent and linearly dependent variables are given. Based on these exact equations of the expected range, the simulation approach is used to obtain approximate equations for higher values of n . Results given in this paper will be used in a second paper to obtain the total expected storage as made up of a deterministic and a stochastic storage.
VSCEL-based smart pixels for WDM applications

Summary from only given. Recent advances in wavelength-engineered vertical cavity surface emitting lasers (VCSEL), filters and detectors have brought forth exciting new opportunities for novel, high bandwidth, high flexibility, robust and reliable optical interconnects. In this talk, I will review the enabling device technology and discuss new systems applications.
Metabolic rates and movements of the male tarantula Aphonopelma anax during the mating season

Tarantulas exhibit sexual dimorphism in their resting metabolic rate (RMR). The significantly higher RMRs ob- served in sexually mature males may be an adaptive strategy to support their higher energetic demands when searching for females. In this study, we investigated how intrasexual differences in male RMR may affect their locomotory activity and behavior during the mating season. Over a 2-year period, we radio-tagged male Texas tan tarantulas (Aphonopelma anax (Chamberlin, 1940)), measured their movements, and periodically recorded their metabolic rates in an open-flow respirom- etery system over the course of the breeding season. Differences found in search speed, search-area size, and movement patterns were not sufficiently explained by the small amount of intrasexual variation exhibited in RMR. Individuals were capable of searching areas up to 29 ha and moved up to 365 m/day. In addition, metabolic rate measured over a 24 h pe- riod showed no circadian periodicity and remained constant over the season. Lastly, the body condition of new captures stayed constant throughout the season, corroborating observations of males feeding and drinking. Resume´ : Les tarentules ont un dimorphisme sexuel de leur taux de metabolisme de repos (RMR). Les RMR significative- ment plus eleves observes chez les males matures sexuellement peuvent representer une strategie adaptative pour combler leurs besoins energetiques accrus lors de la recherche de femelles. Nous examinons, dans notre etude, comment les differ- ences intersexuelles du RMR des males peuvent affecter leur activiteet leur comportement locomoteurs durant la saison de reproduction. Sur une periode de 2 ans, nous avons muni des males de la mygale brune du Texas Aphonopelma anax (Chamberlin, 1940) d'etiquettes radio, mesureleurs deplacements et enregistreperiodiquement leurs taux metaboliques dans un systeme de respirometrie en circuit ouvert au cours de la saison de reproduction. Les differences observees dans la vitesse de recherche, la taille de la surface de recherche et les patrons de deplacement ne sont pas suffisamment expli- quees par la petite quantitede variation de RMR entre les sexes. Les individus sont capables de faire des recherches sur des surfaces pouvant atteindre 29 ha et se deplacent de jusqu'a ` 365 m/jour. De plus, le taux metabolique mesuresur une periode de 24 h ne montre aucune periodicitecircadienne et demeure constant au cours de la saison. Enfin, la condition corporelle des nouvelles captures demeure constante au cours de la saison, ce qui corrobore nos observations sur l'alimen- tation et l'ingestion d'eau des males. (Traduit par la Redaction)
Marsupialization for treatment of oral ranula: A second look at the procedure

Simple marsupialization to manage oral ranula has fallen into disfavor because of excessive failures and the high incidence of iatrogenically caused cervical ranula that may follow this procedure. With the simple addition of packing the entire pseudocystic cavity with gauze after its unroofing, the rate of recurrence is minimized. It is recommended that oral ranula be treated initially by marsupialization with packing and, if recurrence occurs, then the offending sublingual gland should be excised.
The Relationship Between Lipid Peroxidation, Hibernation, and Food Selection in Mammals'

SYNOPSIS. A diet that has high levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids enhances mammalian torpor. Polyunsaturated fatty acids are not synthesized by mammals, but are incorporated into both membrane and storage lipids when they occur in the diet. Polyunsaturated fatty acids also undergo autoxidation more readily than other fatty acids, thereby producing highly toxic lipid peroxides. Lipid peroxidation increases during torpor. Natural selection in mammalian hibernators should thus have favored the evolution of dietary preferences that maximize hibernation ability while simultaneously minimizing the degree of lipid peroxidation during torpor. This hypothesis was tested in laboratory experiments and field studies involving golden-mantled ground squirrels ( Spermophilus lateralis ). We found that the intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids isrestricted during the fall and autoxidation in tissues occurs mostly during the later phases of hibernation.
Exploring global distortions of biological macromolecules and assemblies from low-resolution structural information and elastic network theory.

A theory of elastic normal modes is described for the exploration of global distortions of biological structures and their assemblies based upon low-resolution image data. Structural information at low resolution, e.g. from density maps measured by cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM), is used to construct discrete multi-resolution models for the electron density using the techniques of vector quantization. The elastic normal modes computed based on these discretized low-resolution models are found to compare well with the normal modes obtained at atomic resolution. The quality of the normal modes describing global displacements of the molecular system is found to depend on the resolution of the synthetic EM data and the extent of reductionism in the discretized representation. However, models that reproduce the functional rearrangements of our test set of molecules are achieved for realistic values of experimental resolution. Thus large conformational changes as occur during the functioning of biological macromolecules and assemblies can be elucidated directly from low-resolution structural data through the application of elastic normal mode theory and vector quantization.
Circulating Leptin Levels during Acute Experimental Endotoxemia and Antiinflammatory Therapy in Humans

Leptin, a newly discovered adipose tissue-derived weight-reducing hormone, is increased in acute inflammation and may be involved in the anorexia and wasting syndrome associated with infection. To determine whether this hormone responds to an acute inflammatory stimulus, plasma leptin concentrations were measured in 12 healthy subjects after intravenous administration of endotoxin. These subjects were randomized to receive concurrently ibuprofen or placebo normal saline (6 in each group). Endotoxin administration resulted in fever, leukocytosis, and an increase in plasma levels of the stress hormones adrenocorticotropic hormone (3.2 +/- 0.3 to 132.6 +/- 75.5 pmol/L, P = .001) and cortisol (431.6 +/- 44 to 796.9 +/- 99 mmol/L, P = .001). Plasma leptin levels, however, did not change significantly from baseline values after administration of endotoxin (0 h: 6.9 +/- 3.1 ng/mL; 6 h: 6.0 +/- 2.2; 24 h: 6.5 +/- 2.8). While ibuprofen suppressed fever and symptoms associated with endotoxemia, it had no effect on the plasma levels of leptin. In conclusion, acute experimental human endotoxinemia is not associated with acute changes in circulating leptin levels.
Unified P4 (power-performance-process-parasitic) fast optimization of a Nano-CMOS VCO

In this paper, we present the design of a P4 (Power-Performance-Process-Parasitic) aware voltage controlled oscillator (VCO) at nano-CMOS technologies. Through simulations, we have shown that parasitics and process have a drastic effect on the performance (center frequency) of the VCO. For process variation analysis, we propose a methodology called Design of Experiments-Monte Carlo (DOE-MC), which offers up to 6.25x time savings over a traditional Monte Carlo (TMC) method. A performance optimization of the VCO along with dual-oxide power minimization technique has been carried out in the presence of worst case process. The end product of the proposed methodology is a process aware, performance optimized, dual oxide VCO physical design. We have achieved 25% power (including leakage) minimization with only 1% degradation in center frequency compared to target frequency, in the presence of worst-case process and parasitics. The dual-oxide physical design of the VCO is carried out at 90nm. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first research reporting a dual-oxide nano-CMOS VCO design simultaneously optimized for power (including leakage), performance, parasitics and process.
ACSL/graphics modeller component models for electric power education

This paper describes the use of detailed models of power system components for undergraduate and graduate education. The models were developed in a commercial graphically oriented package (ACSL/Graphic Modeller). At the undergraduate level, the models are provided to the student to use as a tool to reinforce lecture and laboratory concepts. At the graduate level, the models can be used to introduce the student to more advanced topics such as reference frame theory and provide a beginning point for the student to develop more complex models. Included in the paper is a short tutorial on the use of ACSL/Graphic Modeller and a description of several models including a synchronous machine, induction motor, pulse-width-modulated inverter and a six-pulse bridge rectifier. Sample studies using each model are shown with suggestions for additional uses by students. Since the models are detailed, transient as well as steady-state phenomena can be demonstrated with the models. For example, the free acceleration of an induction motor and a three-phase fault on the synchronous generator are among the applications shown in the paper. The models are provided on the CDROM and can be viewed and executed with a free viewer version of ACSL.
Exploitation of the continuum between early ischemia/reperfusion injury and host alloresponsiveness: indefinite kidney allograft survival by treatment with a soluble P-selectin ligand and low-dose cyclosporine in combination.

Background. We have shown previously that sPSGL, a soluble glycoprotein ligand for P and E selectins, reduces the events associated with ischemia/reperfusion injury of the kidney. In the present study, we have attempted to modulate differentially early inflammatory influences and later host alloresponsiveness in an LBNF1-Lewis renal graft model by treatment with sPSGL in combination with a marginally effective dose of cyclosporine (CsA). Methods. Four experimental groups were studied: group 1=control animals receiving vehicle only; group 2=sPSGL monotherapy alone; group 3= low-dose CsA; group 4=sPSGL plus low-dose CsA. Grafts were removed at 1, 3, 5, and 7 days (n=3/time point) and assessed by histology, immunohistology, and reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. Long-surviving grafts in recipients of groups 3 and 4 were followed functionally for more than 28 weeks. Results. Graft function was prolonged indefinitely in recipients in group 4, all of which survived for more than 200 days. In contrast, survival of animals in groups 1 and 2 was not increased substantially, whereas only 4 of 17 animals in group 3 (23.5%) survived more than 24 days (P<0.01). Five days after engraftment, necrosis was relatively minimal in group 4 organs but pronounced in those of the other groups. By immunohistology, numbers of infiltrating CD4 + and CD8 + T cells and ED1 + macrophages were significantly diminished in group 4 allografts compared with those of the other groups. Serial assessment of chemokine and cytokine mRNA expression confirmed these findings. The long-term effects of CsA treatment alone were compared with those of sPSGL in combination with CsA. Proteinuria remained virtually absent in group 4 recipients. Morphologically, the few long-surviving grafts in group 3 showed signs of chronic rejection; those in group 4 remained relatively normal. Conclusions. Although treatment with sPSGL alone showed no apparent influence on the acutely rejecting transplants, at least by the parameters examined in this study, it produced indefinite survival of kidney grafts when used in combination with low-dose CsA. The data support the influence of early nonspecific injury on later immunological rejection.
Use of Alternating Logistic Regression in Studies of Drug-Use Clustering

This article describes the alternating logistic regression (ALR) method, and places this method in the context of other statistical approaches to the analysis of complex survey data, including the conditional form of logistic regression with matching on neighborhood characteristics. Unlike conditional logistic regression, the ALR method provides for an explicit estimation of the magnitude of clustering of drug use within neighborhoods and within subgroups of the neighborhood defined by male-female or age indicators, with and without covariate adjustments. The application of these ALR methods is illustrated with estimates for the magnitude of clustering of daily marijuana use and weekly marijuana use within neighborhoods of the United States, based on data from the National Household Survey on Drug Abuse samples from 1990 through 1996. [Translations are provided in the International Abstracts Section of this issue.]
WEBINO and the return of the King's Speech

We present a 69 year-old man with hypertension who developed the sudden onset of horizontal binocular diplopia and stuttering of speech. On examination, bilateral exotropia (i.e. 'wall-eyed') was observed in the primary position. Attempted horizontal saccades revealed bilateral internuclear ophthalmoplegia; all consistent with the wall-eyed bilateral internuclear ophthalmoplegia (WEBINO) syndrome. Convergence, vertical saccades and vestibular ocular reflexes were likewise impaired. Pupillary and levator palpebrae superioris functions were intact. Mild left-sided dysmetria, intention tremor and dysdiadochokinesia were elicited. Conspicuously, further characterization of the patient's history revealed that he had stuttered as a child, but it had resolved in adolescence. Brain MRI revealed an acute infarction of the mesencephalic and upper pontine tegmentum involving the periaqueductal gray region and the medial longitudinal fasciculus bilaterally with greater involvement of the left. Like the WEBINO syndrome, re-emergent developmental stuttering is a rare neurologic phenomenon. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of a mesencephalic and upper pontine infarction causing both syndromes. We discuss the pathobiological underpinnings of the WEBINO syndrome and neurogenic stuttering and in relationship to this unusual case.
Fifth metacarpal/hamate arthrodesis for posttraumatic osteoarthritis

The fifth metacarpal/hamate joint was arthrodesed in seven patients with symptomatic posttraumatic osteoarthritis. The joint was fused in about 20° of flexion with a corticocancellous iliac bone graft. Follow-up averaged 2 years. There was complete or marked relief of pain in all patients. Grip strength was improved in all patients. Six of the seven patients returned to their original occupations. Fifth metacarpal flexion (descent) was not lost as compensatory motion developed between the hamate and triquetrum joints.
How many days of monitoring predict physical activity and sedentary behaviour in older adults

Background: The number of days of pedometer or accelerometer data needed to reliably assess physical activity (PA) is important for research that examines the relationship with health. While this important research has been completed in young to middle-aged adults, data is lacking in older adults. Further, data determining the number of days of self-reports PA data is also void. The purpose of this study was to examine the number of days needed to predict habitual PA and sedentary behaviour across pedometer, accelerometer, and physical activity log (PA log) data in older adults. Methods: Participants (52 older men and women; age = 69.3 ± 7.4 years, range= 55-86 years) wore a Yamax Digiwalker SW-200 pedometer and an ActiGraph 7164 accelerometer while completing a PA log for 21 consecutive days. Mean differences each instrument and intensity between days of the week were examined using separate repeated measures analysis of variance for with pairwise comparisons. Spearman-Brown Prophecy Formulae based on Intraclass Correlations of .80, .85, .90 and .95 were used to predict the number of days of accelerometer or pedometer wear or PA log daily records needed to represent total PA, light PA, moderate-to-vigorous PA, and sedentary behaviour. Results: Results of this study showed that three days of accelerometer data, four days of pedometer data, or four days of completing PA logs are needed to accurately predict PA levels in older adults. When examining time spent in specific intensities of PA, fewer days of data are needed for accurate prediction of time spent in that activity for ActiGraph but more for the PA log. To accurately predict average daily time spent in sedentary behaviour, five days of ActiGraph data are needed. Conclusions: The number days of objective (pedometer and ActiGraph) and subjective (PA log) data needed to accurately estimate daily PA in older adults was relatively consistent. Despite no statistical differences between days for total PA by the pedometer and ActiGraph, the magnitude of differences between days suggests that day of the week cannot be completely ignored in the design and analysis of PA studies that involve < 7-day monitoring protocols for these instruments. More days of accelerometer data were needed to determine typical sedentary behaviour than PA level in this population of older adults.
Investigating potential effects of zooplankton grazing on diatom-inferred drought reconstructions

Zooplankton may preferentially graze small, edible diatom species and therefore affect fossils relative to live assemblages by selective removal or increased sedimentation via egestion. Cladoceran zooplankton remains and diatom edibility were analyzed in sediment cores from Moon Lake and Coldwater Lake (North Dakota, USA) to assess changes in potential grazing pressure on algae and influence on diatom-inferred salinity (DIS) reconstructions. Sedimentary zooplankton in Moon Lake were dominated by littoral Cladocera, whereas Coldwater Lake assemblages were primarily small-bodied pelagic and littoral species. Relationships between cladocerans and environmental parameters over the past century varied by site and by species, with Chydorus brevilabris related most closely to drought at Moon and Bosmina sp. related to drought at Coldwater. A higher percentage of inedible diatoms occurred in the sediments of Moon Lake as compared to Coldwater Lake. DIS correlations with drought records improved in Moon Lake when only inedible diatom taxa were used to build a transfer function, but no improvement was seen for Coldwater Lake with this approach. These data suggest grazing pressure on diatoms differed between lakes and that zooplankton–phytoplankton interactions may affect the accuracy of drought reconstructions in the Great Plains.
Adherence to cardioprotective medications and mortality among patients with diabetes and ischemic heart disease.

Patients with diabetes and ischemic heart disease (IHD) are at high risk for adverse cardiac outcomes. Clinical practice guidelines recommend multiple cardioprotective medications to reduce recurrent events. We evaluated the association between cardioprotective medication adherence and mortality among patients with diabetes and IHD. In a retrospective cohort study of 3,998 patients with diabetes and IHD, we evaluated use of ACE inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers, β-blockers, and statin medications. Receipt of cardioprotective medications was based on filled prescriptions. Medication adherence was calculated as the proportion of days covered (PDC) for filled prescriptions. The primary outcome of interest was all-cause mortality. The majority of patients (92.8%) received at least 1 cardioprotective medication. Patients receiving any medications had lower unadjusted mortality rates compared to patients not receiving any medications (7.9% vs. 11.5%; p = 0.03). In multivariable analysis, receipt of any cardioprotective medication remained associated with lower all-cause mortality (OR 0.65; 95% CI 0.43–0.99). Among patients receiving cardioprotective medications, the majority (80.3%) were adherent (PDC ≥ 0.80). Adherent patients had lower unadjusted mortality rates (6.7% vs. 12.1%; p < 0.01). In multivariable analysis, medication adherence remained associated with lower all-cause mortality (OR 0.52; 95% CI 0.39–0.69) compared to non-adherence. In contrast, there was no mortality difference between patients receiving cardioprotective medications who were non-adherent compared to patients not receiving any medications (OR 1.01; 95% CI 0.64–1.61). In conclusion, medication adherence is associated with improved outcomes among patients with diabetes and IHD. Quality improvement interventions are needed to increase medication adherence in order for patients to maximize the benefit of cardioprotective medications.
Reliability-based hybrid ARQ and rate-compatible punctured convolutional (RCPC) codes

Reliability-based hybrid ARQ (RB-HARQ) is a recently developed form of incremental-redundancy ARQ. The RB-HARQ technique can be used with codes that use soft-input, soft-output (SISO) decoders, such as convolutional codes and turbo codes. In RB-HARQ, the bits that are to be retransmitted are adaptively selected at the receiver based on the estimated bit reliabilities at the output of a SISO decoder. This technique has the potential to improve performance and minimize retransmission size by targeting those bits that are likely to be in error. It has already been shown that RB-HARQ achieves significant performance improvement provided that large retransmission-request (NACK) packets can be afforded on the feedback link. In this paper, we propose and evaluate the performance of a RB-HARQ technique that uses rate-compatible punctured convolutional (RCPC) codes in the forward channel and source coding in the feedback link. The proposed technique uses source coding to achieve small request packets, thus leading to better performance. The performance of the proposed technique is evaluated in terms of probability of bit error, probability of packet error and throughput. We also compare the performance of the proposed scheme with the common approach to hybrid-ARQ that uses punctured convolutional codes and code combining. The results show that the proposed RB-HARQ scheme achieves better performance than a hybrid-ARQ scheme that uses only RCPC codes.
Inflation and Welfare

In a monetary economy, it is in everyone’s private interest to try to get someone else to hold non-interest-bearing cash and reserves. But someone has to hold it all, so these efforts must simply cancel out. All of us spend several hours per year in this effort, and employ thousands of talented and highly-trained people to help us. These person-hours are simply thrown away, wasted on a task that should not have to be performed at all.
ACADEMIC INTERVENTIONS FOR STUDENTS WITH ATTENTION‐DEFICIT/HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER: A REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE

Students with attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) frequently underachieve academically and are at risk for poor scholastic outcome. This article reviews empirical studies that have reported the effects of academic interventions with this population. Intervention approaches are reviewed in the general categories of peer tutoring, computer‐assisted instruction, task and instructional modifications, and strategy training. Some of these strategies (e.g., peer tutoring, task modifications) appear to enhance both academic performance and attentional behavior. Strategies that directly address the academic difficulties experienced by students with ADHD must be part of the treatment package if educational success is to be achieved. Recommendations for practice and future research efforts are delineated.