cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Phosphorylation of native and truncated isoforms of protein τ by the double‐stranded DNA‐dependent protein kinase (DNA‐PK) shows that the primary phosphorylation sites are localized between amino acid residues 212‐231 of the longest τ

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is pathologically characterized by the appearance of neurofibrillary tangles (NFT), senile plaques, and loss of subpopulation of neuronal cells. The NFT is composed of paired helical filaments (PHT) with extensively modified protein T as its primary constituent. Previously we had reported on the hyperphosphorylation of T by a double-stranded-DNA-stimulated protein kinase (DNA-PK). In this communication, we have compared the DNA-PK mediated phosphorylation of native and truncated TS with that catalyzed by the cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA). In addition, we have attempted to map the primary site(s) of phosphorylation of T by DNA-PK. Our results suggest that DNA-PK phosphorylates T at sites substantially different from those targeted by PKA. Furthermore, we show that the primary phosphorylation sites lie between amino acid residues 212-231 (using numbering system for the longest T, which is the isoform with four "repeats" and a 58 amino acid "insert" at the carboxyl- and amino-termini, respectively, of the protein molecule).
Implications of the 2011 Tuscaloosa EF4 tornado for shelter and refuge decisions

This research provides an overview and discussion of language used in tornado safety recommendations along with development of a rubric for scaled tornado safety recommendations. Residents living in affected areas and those temporarily housed at relief stations were surveyed to collect information on their experiences during a 2-week period following the April 27, 2011 Tuscaloosa, Alabama EF4 tornado. Respondents were asked about their refuge plans during the storm and about any future changes to those plans. A specific focus of this research evaluated the adequacy of each respondent’s plan. Each refuge plan was compared using a tornado refuge rubric developed through the use of enhanced Fujita (EF) scale degree of damage ratings for available damage indicators. There was a significant difference in the counts of refuge adequacy for Tuscaloosa residents when holding the locations during the April 27 tornado constant and comparing adequacy ratings for weak (EF0–EF1), strong (EF2–EF3), and violent (EF4–EF5) tornadoes. There was also a significant difference when comparing the future tornado refuge plans of those same participants to the adequacy ratings for weak, strong, and violent tornadoes. This research introduces renewed discussion on proper refuge and shelter alternatives for days when violent tornadoes are forecasted.
A radioimmune study of the effect of bromodeoxyuridine on the synthesis of proteoglycan by differentiating limb bud cultures

Abstract A radioimmune assay has been developed for the quantitative determination and the qualitative identification of core protein of cartilage chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan. Utilizing this method it has been shown that during differentiation of chick limb bud mesenchyme to cartilage, there is a marked augmentation of synthesis of core protein. Treatment with 5-bromo-2′-deoxyuridine results in an irreversible inhibition of synthesis of cartilage-specific chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan.
Building scenarios with Fuzzy Cognitive Maps: An exploratory study of solar energy

Abstract In scenario planning, causal mapping has long been used as a means to elicit the worldviews of multiple experts, facilitate discussion, and challenge and improve mental models. Large and complex causal maps, however, are difficult to analyze. This paper proposes a novel method for scenario building, based on Fuzzy Cognitive Maps, that combines intuitive, cognitive mapping techniques with formal, quantitative analysis. The proposed method helps scenario planners to integrate the qualitative and partial knowledge of multiple individuals and overcome information processing limitations. The feasibility of the proposed approach is investigated with two scenario studies on solar photovoltaic panels.
A study of the effects of lasofoxifene (LASO) on the pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of warfarin

Background/Aims To determine the effects of steady-state LASO on the PK and PD of single-dose warfarin. Although no PK drug interaction was expected, these 2 compounds are likely to be coadministered in patients. Methods Open-label, 2-period, fixed-sequence study in 12 healthy postmenopausal women with CYP2C9 genotypes of 1*/1* (wt, n=8), 1*/2* (n=2), or 1*/3* (n=2). Warfarin 20 mg was given on Day 1 and after 7 days of LASO 0.5 mg (after a loading dose of 4 mg). Blood was collected serially for up to 168 hr post-dose for determination of prothrombin time (PT)/INR and R- and S-warfarin. The 90% CI of the ratios with/without LASO for PK and PD parameters (Cmax and AUC) were calculated. LASO was considered to have no effect if the 90% CI was within the 80–125% range. Results LASO had no effect on R- and S-warfarin PK. S-warfarin AUC was 1.3- and 1.8-fold larger in subjects with 1*/2*and 1*/3* genotypes, respectively, relative to 1*/1*. Co-administration of warfarin and LASO resulted in a small decrease in warfarin PTmax and PTAUC with ratios (90% CI) with/without LASO of 84.2 (80.6 - 87.8) and 91.9 (89.6 - 94.2) respectively. Results for INR were similar. Conclusions The decrease in PT/INR is not considered clinically meaningful, however, consistent with warfarin's label more frequent INR monitoring may be considered during LASO introduction and discontinuation. Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics (2005) 77, P47–P47; doi: 10.1016/j.clpt.2004.12.072
Reflecting emotions: The movement-mirroring test

This study tests the ability to mirror emotions by having second-year social work students and first-and second-year dance therapy students duplicate a videotape of a person expressing sadness, anger, and happiness. The ability to mirror is then compared to imaginative, expressive, and observational skills. Movement mirroring was found to correlate positively with, and was predictive of, observational skills. Mirroring was found not to be related to expressivity and the relationship between mirroring and imagination was unclear. Dance therapy students performed significantly better than social work students on the Movement-Mirroring Test, however, training did not improve their scores.
Factors affecting the lymphatic transport of penclomedine (NSC-338720), a lipophilic cytotoxic drug: Comparison to DDT and hexachlorobenzene

Abstract Penclomedine (NSC-338720) is a low melting point, poorly water soluble cytotoxic agent with good solubility in triglycerides and a high octanol/water partition coefficient. Because of these physical properties, an attempt was made to assess the role that intestinal lymphatic transport plays in the systematic absorption of penclomedine and to compare its behavior to those of DDT and hexachlorobenzene, two other xenobiotics with somewhat similar properties. After intraduodenal administration to anesthetized rats as either a 10% o/w emulsion prepared from tributyrin, trioctanoin, triolein, soybean oil or mineral oil, or as a suspension, the rank order of lymphatic transport for penclomedine was soybean oil ≈ triolein > trioctanoin ≈ mineral oil ≈ tributyrin ≈ suspension. Correcting for bioavailability, approx. 3% of the absorbed dose was lymphatically transported for both soybean oil and triolein emulsions. Less than 0.75% of the absorbed dose was transported after administration in the other vehicles. The low percent of the absorbed dose transported in the intestinal lymphatics may be related to the high extent of plasma protein and red blood cell binding of penclomedine and lower partition coefficient compared to DDT, whereas the low degree of lymphatic transport of hexachlorobenzene may be related to its more limited water and lipid solubility combined with considerable plasma protein and red blood cell binding. A high degree of plasma protein and red blood cell binding is proposed to compete with chylomicron affinity in the dynamics of intestinal lymph versus portal blood transport.
Influence of Procedural Success on Immediate and Long-Term Clinical Outcome of Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Revascularization of Occluded Coronary Artery Bypass Vein Grafts

Abstract Objectives This study sought to determine whether successful recanalization of an occluded vein graft is associated with improvement in long-term clinical outcome. Background Coronary angioplasty of occluded vein grafts is associated with a lower initial success rate and a higher complication rate than angioplasty of vein grafts with subtotal stenoses and native coronary arteries. Whether successful angioplasty improves clinical outcome is unknown. Methods We analyzed 77 consecutive patients who underwent angioplasty of an occluded saphenous vein coronary artery bypass graft between August 1983 and June 1994. Patients with a myocardial infarction in the previous 24 h were excluded from the study. Results The mean age of the study cohort was 65 years; the mean (±SD) age of the treated grafts was 7.5 ± 3.9 years. As an adjunct to balloon angioplasty, stents were used in 9% of procedures, laser in 30%, and atherectomy in 16%, and thrombolytic therapy was administered in 23% of patients. The angioplasty success rate was 71%. Major complications within 30 days of the procedure included death in 5.2% of patients, Q wave myocardial infarction in 1.3% and repeat bypass surgery in 7.8%; these events occurred with similar frequency in patients in whom angiographic success was and was not achieved. Kaplan-Meier analysis comparing patients in whom angioplasty was successful (n = 55) and not successful (n = 22) revealed no differences in survival or occurrence of myocardial infarction or recurrent severe angina between the two groups in the 3 years after the procedure. Univariate analysis identified the age of the graft and use of newer interventional devices as predictors of death or myocardial infarction during this time period; procedural success was not associated with freedom from these adverse events after adjusting for these variables. Conclusions Angioplasty of occluded vein grafts is associated with a low initial success rate and a high complication rate. Successful angioplasty does not appear to reduce the occurrence of adverse events in the 3 years after the procedure.
Education and certification influence the nutrition and management knowledge of long-term-care foodservice managers.

Abstract Objectives To describe nutrition knowledge, attitude toward nutrition, and management knowledge of long-term-care foodservice managers and to determine the relationship between these variables and the foodservice managers' personal and facility characteristics. Design Nutrition knowledge, management knowledge, and attitudes toward nutrition were measured using survey methodology designed for this study by modifying an instrument developed by the Nutrition Education Training Program for the Texas Department of Human Services. Subjects/setting Surveys were mailed to a random sample of 300 long-term-care foodservice directors from the 1,092 directors listed in the 1996 Ohio Department of Health Directory of Nursing Homes. The participants were 123 of the 300 foodservice directors (41%). Statistical analyses performed Descriptive statistics, Spearman rank correlations, 1-way analysis of variance, and post hoc variance were calculated. Results Mean scores of respondents were 21.2 out of a possible 29 (73%) for the nutrition knowledge assessment, and 18.2 out of 26 (70%) for management knowledge. Dietitians and dietetic technicians scored significantly better than others on these tests. The mean score of attitudes toward nutrition was 4 on a 5-point scale (where l=strongly disagree to 5=strongly agree). All participants requested more training in computers, nutrition terminology, and preparing appealing foods. Applications Dietitians and dietetic technicians are prepared with a wide scope of knowledge in nutrition and management. Thus, they are in an ideal position to take advantage of job opportunities in the area of foodservice management. J Am Diet Assoc. 1999;99:553–557 .
Mesostructure of calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) gels in Portland cement paste : Short-range ordering, nanocrystallinity, and local compositional order

Transmission electron microscopy studies of calcium silicate hydrate gels in Portland cement were performed. Selected area electron diffraction studies revealed diffuse rings, indicating the presence of short-range ordering. Investigations of various regions within the gel found strong fluctuations in the diffuseness of the rings ; corresponding local compositional probes showed the presence of large fluctuations in the local calcium:silicon ratio. Lattice imaging studies were then performed to determine the nature of the short-range ordering. These investigations revealed nanocrystalline regions within an amorphous matrix. The local composition within the nanocrystalline regions is believed to be homogeneous. However, strong fluctuations in the local compositional order parameter between various regions would seemingly exist. Optical diffractograms taken from individual nanocrystalline regions demonstrated the coexistence of both jennite and 1.4-nm tobermorite structural elements, supporting the essential features of the Taylor nanophasic model.
Histogram reweighting and finite-size scaling study of the Lennard–Jones fluids

Abstract Phase diagrams and critical constants for the long-range corrected, the truncated, and the truncated and shifted Lennard–Jones fluids with various values of the potential cutoff were computed from molecular simulations. Critical parameters were obtained from mixed-field finite-size scaling analysis. Multiple histogram reweighting was used to compute the phase envelop at temperatures well below criticality. For the long-range corrected fluid, the coexistence curve is systematically shifted to higher chemical potentials for a cutoff of 5.0σ compared with that for a cutoff of 2.5σ. The difference in the critical temperature for the truncated and truncated and shifted potentials decreases from 10 to 3.6% as the cutoff increases from 2.5σ to 3.5σ. The critical temperature for the long-range corrected fluid is about 1.4% larger than that for the truncated fluid with a cutoff of 5.0σ. The average absolute deviations of the coexistence densities between the truncated and long-range corrected fluid with rc=5.0σ are about 0.8 and 1% for the vapor and liquid branches, respectively. This indicates that the truncated Lennard–Jones fluid with a cutoff of 5.0σ is a reasonable quantitative approximation to the full Lennard–Jones fluid.
Effects of shock loading on cobalt-based solid-solution strengthened superalloys

Les alliages HAYNES 25 et 188 on ete etudies pour determiner l'effet du chargement par choc sur la reponse mecanique et l'evolution de microstructure sous rechargements quasi-statique et dynamique. Les proprietes sous compression ont ete etudiees pour ces materiaux a leur etat inital ainsi qu'a l'etat predeforme par choc. Les vitesses de deformation en compression varient de 10 −3 /s a 3000/s et les temperatures de deformation sont 77°K et 293°K. Des traitement de recuit a des temperatures variant de 300°C a 800°C ont suivi le chargment par choc. Pour des temperatures de recuit en dessous de 600°C, la resistance a l'ecoulement plastic sous rechargement et les vitesses d'ecrouissage augmentent par rapport aux conditions de choc
Importance of day 21 BM chimerism in sustained neutrophil engraftment following double-unit cord blood transplantation.

Delayed or failed engraftment remains a concern after cord blood transplantation (CBT) even when using double-unit grafts. Therefore, we analyzed the association between BM assessment performed approximately 21 days after transplantation, and the speed and success of sustained donor-derived neutrophil engraftment in 56 myeloablative double-unit CBT (DCBT) recipients. Overall, the cumulative incidence of sustained neutrophil engraftment was 95% (95% confidence intervals (CI): 89–100). Of the percentage of myeloid precursors, the BM cellularity and the total donor chimerism the total donor chimerism percentage had the most critical association with the speed and success of engraftment. DCBT recipients who were 100% donor achieved a 98% engraftment rate at a median of 22 days. This compared with 100% engraftment in patients who were 90–99% donor, but at a delayed median of 29 days and only 68% engraftment in patients <90% donor at a median of 37 days (P=0.001). Multivariate analysis was performed in the subgroup of patients who had not engrafted at the time the BM analysis was performed, the subgroup of most clinical concern. This confirmed donor chimerism was predictive of subsequent neutrophil recovery (P=0.004). These findings demonstrate the importance of the day 21 BM chimerism determinations after DCBT.
Effect of Prenatal Cocaine Exposure on D2 Receptors and DAT in Rhesus Macaques

Five adult rhesus monkeys with a history of prenatal cocaine exposure (PNCE) and two saline-exposed control animals were used to optimize positron emission tomography (PET) imaging methods and to gather preliminary data on the effects of PNCE on dopamine systems in the adult non-human primate central nervous system. Dynamic PET scans were performed on each monkey to measure the binding kinetics of PET ligands specific for dopamine D2/D3 receptors ([18F]fallypride) and dopamine transporter ([18F]FECNT). PET scans were coregistered to structural T1-weighted MR images to aid in identification of regions with significant dopamine innervation for tracer kinetic analysis. Brain regions of interest (ROI) included caudate, putamen, substantia nigra and anterior cingulate cortex. Kinetic modeling using a cerebellum reference region was implemented in the PMOD software package to determine ligand binding potentials for D2/D3 receptors and dopamine transporters (DAT) in each of the ROIs to test whether fallypride and/or FECNT binding potentials, measures of D2/D3 and DAT levels respectively, were influenced by prenatal cocaine exposure. Preliminary results suggest a trend of reduced D2/D3 binding potential with increased PNCE, but future research is necessary.
Synthesis and characterization of the Zintl phase Na4Ba3As6 with isolated As35− anions

Abstract The title compound was prepared by direct fusion of the corresponding elements at 800°C followed by slow cooling to room temperature. It crystallizes in the orthorhombic space group Pbcm (No. 57) with a=11.340(2), b=8.745(2), and c=14.920(2) A, V=1479.8(5) A3, and Z=4. The structure is made of isolated V-shaped trimers As35− and sodium and barium countercations. According to magnetic and resistivity measurements, Na4Ba3As6 is a narrow-gap semiconductor, i.e. a closed-shell compound that fulfills the Zintl concept.
New aerosol sampler with low wind sensitivity and good filter collection uniformity

Abstract The overall sampling efficiency of many aerosol samplers is sensitive to wind velocity and direction. In addition, most samplers have internal losses due to gravitational settling, electrostatic interactions, and internal turbulence. A new sampling inlet has been designed to reduce these problems. The flow patterns over the new prototype sampler were visualized in a horizontal wind tunnel. Visualization of the streamlines over the new sampler and limiting-streamline quantitative analysis showed negligible turbulence effects due to the inlet's geometry. The overall sampling efficiency of the prototype sampler was compared to that of a 25 mm closed-face cassette. Uranine was used as the challenge aerosol with particle physical diameters of 13.5, 20 and 30 μm. The wind velocity ranged from 100 to 300 cm s −1 . Evaluation of the data showed the new sampler to be less significantly affected by wind direction and magnitude. The particle distribution observed on the sampler's filter was found to be reasonably uniform, an advantage for several types of analyses.
Eisenhower's Ideology in World War II

Eisenhower's antifascist sentiments were first expressed nearly one and one-half years into the war in response to a specific incident. His more basic ideological commitment, expressed throughout the war, was to voluntary self-restraint and obedience to duty, which he called the first tenet of his religion, as the foundation of social order. His apocalyptic view of the war was based on a dualism that pitted the selfish against the selfless. He saw the war largely as a spiritual struggle within the Allied camp between these two forces. Civilians as well as soldiers were exhorted to sacrifice personal interests for the sake of total mobilization, which meant exercising the virtue of selflessness. When he eventually expressed opposition to fascism, he interpreted fascism as a manifestation of selfishness and social disorder. This ideological foundation is vital for understanding Eisenhower's views and policies as president, including his attitude toward the military-industrial complex.
Effects of octahedral-iron reduction and swelling pressure on interlayer distances in Na-nontronite

A new type of environmental chamber for X-ray diffraction was designed that could sustain elevated, internal pressures of nitrogen or any other gas under oxygen-free conditions and that allowed the positions of the specimen and edge aperture to be adjusted by remote control. It was used to determine the values of the interlayer spacing, λ, of nontronite from Garfield, Washington, in different stages of reduction at different values of Π, the swelling pressure of the nontronite. At equilibrium, Π was equal to the pressure under which water was expressed from the clay. Both partially and fully expanded layers were found to exist in the reduced nontronite, the fraction of partially expanded layers increasing with increasing Π and Fe2+/Fe3+, the ratio of Fe2+ to Fe3+ in octahedral sites. Also, λ for the partially expanded layers was found to depend on Fe2+/Fe3+ but not on Π, and λ for the fully expanded layers was found to depend on Π but not on Fe2+/Fe3+. These findings were interpreted to mean that the reduction of Fe affected the short-range interlayer forces, but not the long-range ones.
Impact of Authentic Learning Exercises on Preservice Teachers' Self-Efficacy to Perform Bullying Prevention Tasks.

BackgroundTeachers and preservice teachers may neglect intervening into and/or leading efforts to prevent bullying because they the lack confidence to do so.PurposeThe purpose of this study was to determine the impact of authentic learning exercises on health education preservice teachers' self-efficacy to perform bullying prevention activities. A corollary purpose was to identify the ease and practicality of using the professional preparation standards as an instructional framework.MethodsPreservice teachers (n = 60) completed a pre/postassessment that measured self-efficacy to perform bullying prevention tasks aligned with 5 professional preparation standards. The intervention was authentic learning exercises aligned with the standards and administered during a professional preparation course.DiscussionParticipants' self-efficacy to perform bullying prevention activities aligned with the standards increased significantly. Effect sizes varied, thus warranting additional research. As an instructional fram...
Middle-Upper Cambrian Boundary in North America

The position of the Middle-Upper Cambrian boundary in the North American faunal province has been uncertain because of inadequate criteria for correlation with type-Cambrian rocks. Various proposals place the boundary as high as the middle of the Conaspis Zone and as low as the base of the Cedaria Zone. Newly described agnostid trilobites from Utah are identical or closely related to species that occur in the Acado-Baltic faunal province in Scandinavia, which contains the generally accepted reference section for the Middle-Upper Cambrian boundary. These agnostids are associated with a large assemblage of nonagnostid trilobites typical of the North American faunal province. Comparisons based on occurrence of identical species, relative generic range zones, and level of evolutionary development among agnostid genera indicate that the Bolaspidella Zone of Utah correlates with the interval that includes the Ptychagnostus atavus to Lejopyge laevigata Zones of the Paradoxides Series of Sweden. The Bolaspidella Zone is therefore the uppermost zone of Middle Cambrian age in North America. This paper proposes that the Middle-Upper Cambrian boundary in North America be stabilized between rocks that contain faunas of the Bolaspidella and Cedaria Zones.
Evaluation of the genetic association of the PTPN22 R620W polymorphism in familial and sporadic systemic lupus erythematosus

Objective The R620W (1858CT) polymorphism in PTPN22 has been implicated in type 1 diabetes mellitus, rheumatoid arthritis, Graves' disease, Hashimoto thyroiditis, autoimmune thyroid disease, and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The aim of this study was to evaluate this polymorphism in patients with familial SLE and in those with sporadic SLE. Methods A total of 4,981 DNA samples were genotyped (from 1,680 SLE patients, 1,834 family members, and 1,467 controls). Both population-based case–control and family-based association designs were used for the analyses. Results In the European American familial SLE cohort, the minor 1858T allele was more common in randomly selected patients compared with controls (χ2 = 5.61, P = 0.018, odds ratio [OR] 1.46, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.07–1.99). The heterozygous C/T genotype was also more common in these European American patients compared with controls (OR 1.63, 95% CI 1.15–2.30). Family-based association tests showed preferential transmission of the 1858T allele to affected offspring (χ2 = 5.87, P = 0.015). In contrast, the frequency of the 1858T minor allele was not significantly increased in the European American patients with sporadic SLE compared with controls, nor did these patients have preferential transmission of the 1858T allele. Indeed, the difference in the 1858T allele frequency between patients with familial SLE and those with sporadic SLE was measurable (allelic χ2 = 4.22, P = 0.04, OR 1.51, 95% CI 1.02–2.24). Our data also showed that among patients with SLE, the 1858T allele was separately associated with type 1 diabetes mellitus and with autoimmune thyroid disease, confirming the findings of other investigators. Conclusion The 1858T allele of PTPN22 is associated with familial SLE but not with sporadic SLE in European Americans, thereby potentially explaining previous contradictory reports.
Hyperglycemia in diabetics and non-diabetics: Effect on the risk for and severity of pneumococcal pneumonia

Summary Objectives We sought to determine whether poor glucose control among diabetics is associated with increased risk for pneumococcal pneumonia and whether elevated admitting plasma glucose (APG) levels are associated with increased severity of this infection in diabetic and non-diabetic patients. Methods We compared hemoglobin A 1c (HbA 1c ) in diabetics who had pneumococcal pneumonia with diabetic case–controls who did not have pneumonia. In patients with pneumococcal pneumonia, we related APG to disease severity as determined by SMART-COP score, need for ICU admission, and mortality at 7 and 30 days. Results Fifty-three of 233 patients with pneumococcal pneumonia (22.7%) were diabetic. Diabetics with pneumonia had poorer glycemic control than diabetic case–controls (HbA 1c 8.2% vs. 7.2%, respectively, P Conclusions Poor glycemic control predisposes diabetics to pneumococcal pneumonia but, among diabetics, the degree of hyperglycemia at admission is not associated with increased disease severity. In contrast, among non-diabetics with pneumococcal pneumonia, hyperglycemia is a marker for severe disease and increased mortality, perhaps reflecting massive release of cytokines and glucocorticosteroids in overwhelming infection.
Strategic planning for information resources at the University of Maryland

Abstract With an externally funded project as catalyst, the University of Maryland at Baltimore instituted a formal strategic planning process for an integrated academic information management system (IAIMS). The process, designed to be comprehensive, iterative and participatory, also maximized its effectiveness as change agent by building in translatability, allowing the original characteristics to continue into the implementation phase and ongoing management of information resources. This paper describes the process and its translation, with reference to the literature on organizational change and formal planning.
On the classification of recall strings using lattice-theoretic measures

Lattice theory is used to develop techniques for classifying groups of subjects on the basis of their recall strategies or multiple recall strategies within individual subjects. Using the ordered tree algorithm to represent sets of recall orders, it is shown how both trees and single recall strings can be represented as points within a nonsemimodular, graded lattice. Distances within the lattice structure are used to construct a dissimilarity measure,S, which can then be used to partition the individual recall strings. The measureS between strings is compared to Kendall's tau in three empirical tests, examining differences between individual subjects, differences between groups of subjects, and differences within a subject. It was shown that onlyS could recover the original differences. Differences between comparing chunks versus comparing orders are discussed.
Mechanical properties of carbon nanofiber/fiber-reinforced hierarchical polymer composites manufactured with multiscale-reinforcement fabrics

Abstract Hierarchical polymer composites – defined as carbon nanofiber/fiber-reinforced polymer composites – were manufactured using multiscale-reinforcement fabrics (MRFs) and they were characterized for their mechanical properties. The MRFs were fabricated by electrophoretic deposition of carboxylic acid- or amine-functionalized carbon nanofibers (CNFs) on the surface of sized or unsized carbon fiber layers. Compared to the base composite (not containing CNFs), the hierarchical composites containing the functionalized CNFs showed an increase in interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) and compressive strength. Panels containing amine-functionalized CNFs had the highest increase in properties: 12% in ILSS and 13% in compressive strength. The reinforcement mechanism was also investigated with emphasis placed on the fiber/matrix interface and the load transfer between matrix, CNFs, and carbon fiber.
Ultrasound determination of left ventricular position for volume angiography.

The reliability of angiographically determined left ventricular (LV) volume is in part dependent upon the accuracy of the determination of the position of the left ventricular (LV) chamber in relation to the x-ray image intensifier. A new device is described which utilizes available ultrasound techniques and equipment to ascertain readily the height of the LV above the table top with the patient lying in the right anterior oblique position. Comparison of cross-table radiography with the ultrasound method was carried out. In addition, multiple external body dimensions were obtained which did not consistently predict LV position. The height of the LV above the table top can be obtained readily by the ultrasound technique described and requires minimal expertise for its accurate measurement.
The Multiple Discourses of Anthropology : Ethnographic Reportage, Theoretical Critiques, and Classroom Pedagogy

Anthropological writing, perhaps more than any other academic discourse, had been caught in the cross-fire of postmodern discussions about the crisis of representation and the imperialism of knowledge. The legitimacy of the field demands that the writer be an objective transcriber of the nature of some other - that she not take to this observation and transcription the force of her own subjectivity. In recent years the problems of objectivity have been exacerbated by criticisms from within and without the discipline of anthropology that call into question no only the history of the field but also the very premises that authorize it. This study explores the extent to which the discipline of anthropology has rewritten itself in the face of these criticisms.
Improving voltage profiles in the Dominican electricity network using Static VAR Compensators

This paper presents an analysis of the Dominican National interconnected electrical system (SENT) by incorporating a Static VAR Compensator (SVC) in the northern region of the system. A study involving this action would help improve low voltage profiles. A brief explanation on Flexible Alternate Current Transmission Systems (FACTS) associated with this implementation is given. The SVC and its components are discussed. The SENT was described and the implementation of the SVC was performed in the modeled system in the DigSilent software. Tests were performed in steady state analysis' and conclusions were drawn from the results. An economic study was performed to determine the impact of the SVC in the system to improve the voltage profile of the whole system.
Establishing mixed method research design guidelines in health impact assessment investigations

In the last decade local policymakers and community health officials have been using a Health Impact Assessment (HIA) strategy to assess the health impacts of their policy decisions. The HIA research design is founded on the mixed method research approach (integration of quantitative and qualitative data slices within a single investigation) to get as comprehensive assessment as possible of the expected impacts. The HIA literature has yet to provide any guidelines on how community health investigators should conduct a mixed-method HIA research. We conducted a content analysis of 100 HIAs executed around the world published between 1999 and 2011 and analysed their research methodologies. Observations generated from the analysed HIAs were used to establish an ‘HIA mixed method model’ by which a series of mixed-method design guidelines were used to help community health researchers improve the analytical capabilities in their future HIA investigations.
Process Lethality prediction for "Escherichia coli" O157:H7 in raw franks during cooking and fully cooked franks during post-cook pasteurization

: Thermal inactivation D (decimal reduction time at a certain heating temperature) values of Escherichia coli O157:H7 at 55 °C to 70 °C were 21.36 to 0.031 min in raw franks and 24.91 to 0.038 min in fully cooked franks. Although statistically significant differences were found on the D values of E. coli O157:H7 between raw and fully cooked franks, the z value of E. coli O157:H7 in raw franks (5.07 °C) and fully cooked franks (5.08 °C) was not significantly different. The obtained D and z values were used to validate the process lethality of the pathogen in the raw franks that were processed according to a multistage cooking/cooling schedule or in the fully cooked franks that were pasteurized in-packages via steam. In this study, the calculated process lethality for both the cooking (process lethality = 254 min) and post-cook pasteurization (process lethality = 39 min) processes was far greater than the processing time that was needed for achieving a 7D reduction of E. coli O157:H7 during cooking and post-cook pasteurization of the franks.
Drug Utilization Patterns and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Elderly Patients Newly Initiated on Atorvastatin or Simvastatin

Abstract Background Hydroxymethylglutaryl coenzyme-A reductase inhibitors simvastatin and atorvastatin are effective at lowering LDL-C levels and reducing the risk of cardiovascular (CV) events. Objective The objective of this study was to examine differences in drug utilization and CV event risk among elderly patients newly initiated on simvastatin versus atorvastatin. Methods This was a retrospective analysis using pharmacy and medical claims from a US health plan database. Enrollees aged ≥65 years, newly initiated on simvastatin or atorvastatin (index drugs) from July 1, 2006 to November 30, 2008 were identified for study inclusion. Patients were excluded if they had any prescriptions for clopidogrel, nitrates, or other dyslipidemia medication, or any CV events before index drug initiation. Adherence was calculated by proportion of days covered with index medication. CV events (myocardial infarction, ischemic heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, peripheral vascular disease, aortic aneurysm, revascularization, or heart failure) were identified from medical claims. Results There were 11,470 atorvastatin initiators and 20,132 simvastatin initiators identified. Mean age of these patients was 72 years; 40% were male; nearly half had hypertension; and more than a quarter had diabetes. The majority of statin therapy (77%) was prescribed by primary care physicians. Forty-nine percent of atorvastatin patients were initiated on a 10 mg-dose and 61% of simvastatin patients on 5-, 10-, or 20-mg doses. A larger percentage of patients in the simvastatin cohort were adherent to index therapy than patients in the atorvastatin cohort (43% vs 36%, respectively). Multivariate regression adjusting for patient characteristics revealed no significant difference in CV events between patients receiving atorvastatin versus simvastatin. Conclusions In this study of elderly statin patients without recent evidence of CV events, the majority of patients started on low-dose therapy and did not achieve sufficient adherence. After controlling for patient and clinical characteristics, no statistically significant difference in risk of CV event was observed based on initiation with atorvastatin versus simvastatin.
Effects of multiple scattering and thermal emission on target-background signatures sensed through obscuring atmospheres

We report on the application of a recently developed method for producing exact solutions of the thermal vision of the radiative transfer equation1. The method is demonstrated to be accurate to within five significant figures when compared with the one dimensional plane layer solutions published by van de Hulst2, and, has the added capability for treating discrete localized, aerosol clouds of spherical and cylindrical symmetry. The method, described in detail in a companion paper1, is only briefly summarized here, where our main purpose is to demonstrate the utility of the method for calculating emissivity functions of finite aerosol clouds of arbitrary optical thickness and albedo, and most likely to occur on the modern cluttered battlefield. The emissivity functions are then used to determine apparent temperatures including effects of both internal thermal emission and in- scatter from the ambient surroundings. We apply the results to four generic scenarios, including the mid and far IR and a hypothetical full spectrum band. In all cases, calculations show that errors on the order of several degrees in the sensed temperature can occur if cloud emissivity is not accounted for; with errors being most pronounced at the higher values of optical depth and albedo. We also demonstrate that significant discrepancies can occur when comparing results from different spectral bands, especially for the mid IR which consistently shows higher apparent temperatures than the other bands, including the full spectrum case. Results of emissivity calculations show that in almost no case can one justify the simple Beer's Law model that essentially ignores emissive/scattering effects; however, there is reason for optimism in the use of other simplifying first and higher order approximations used in some contemporary models. The present version of the model treats only Gaussian aerosol distributions and isotropic scattering; although neither assumption necessarily represents a restriction on the method.© (2000) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Ribonucleic acid synthesis in relation to precursor pools in regenerating rat liver.

Abstract The rate of RNA synthesis during the early stages of hepatic regeneration has been evaluated with radioactive precursor techniques. Since RNA labeling is influenced by alterations in effective liver mass, size of endogenous precursor pools, and possibly other factors as well as by regenerative activity, the experimental procedures were modified to permit estimation of RNA biosynthetic rates in terms of mμmoles of nucleoside triphosphate incorporated — conditions which permitted more meaningful comparisons than heretofore among rats differing in nutritional status, size of liver cell complement, or dose of labeled precursor. When regenerating liver was examined under these new conditions, we found that the endogenous UTP and CTP pools expanded by 50% or more within 3 h after partial hepatectomy, and the rate of RNA synthesis, after a negligible depression at time zero, rose by 50–100% at 3–6 h and then remained level for an additional 6 h. RNA content followed similar trends. Sham operation caused minor transient rises in pool size, biosynthetic rate and RNA content.
Exogenous Temporal Assessment of Lysyl Oxidase on Engineered Articular Cartilage as a Method for Promoting Collagen Crosslinking

The poor ability of articular cartilage (AC) to repair following disease and/or injury makes the tissue a key target for cell-based regenerative strategies. Progress made in the development of tissue engineered AC, using a 3-dimensional, scaffoldless, self-assembly method, has yielded neotissues with compressive properties on par with native tissue [1]. However, the tensile properties of these engineered tissues remain to be improved. This is particularly important because, while the tissue functions mainly in compression, the tensile strains within the joint nonetheless present a mechanically challenging environment.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Hydrological changes in the U.S. Northeast using the Connecticut River Basin as a case study: Part 1. Modeling and analysis of the past

Abstract Increase of precipitation intensity is the most definite and detectable hydrological consequence of a warmer climate. Among all U.S. regions, the Northeast has witnessed the strongest increase of extreme precipitation in the past five decades. This study examines the impact of climate changes during 1950–2011 on hydrological processes in the Northeast using the Connecticut River Basin as a case study. In addition to precipitation and river discharge data from observations, the Variable Infiltration Capacity (VIC) hydrological model is used to derive hydrological variables for which long-term observational data are not readily available. Our results show a clear increase of precipitation intensity, with substantial increase in both the number of days with greater than 10 mm precipitation and the simple daily intensity index. From 1950 to 2011, extreme precipitation amount (which is the total amount of precipitation from the upper 1% of daily precipitation) increased substantially, by 240% relative to the 1950 level. The weight of extreme precipitation as a fraction of total precipitation also increased, from about 10.6% in the 1950s to 30.4% in the 2000s. Despite the increase of precipitation extremes, the consecutive dry days experienced a slight decrease. Mean trend analysis shows indications of increasing precipitation amount, increasing discharge, increasing runoff ratios, increasing soil moisture, and a negligible evapotranspiration trend. Our simulations suggest that the basin is entering a wetter regime more subject to meteorological flood conditions than to drought conditions. A companion paper will investigate how these trends may persist or differ in the mid-21st century under continued warming.
Decomposability of matrix polynomials with commuting coefficients into a product of linear factors

The list of known sets of factorizable matrix polynomials is supplemented by new sets of polynomials of this sort. The known set of nonfactorizable matrix polynomials is extended. These results can be applied to the study of polynomial equations and systems of differential equations with constant coefficients.
Accuracy of travel time distribution (TTD) models as affected by TTD complexity, observation errors, and model and tracer selection

Analytical models of the travel time distribution (TTD) from a source area to a sample location are often used to estimate groundwater ages and solute concentration trends. The accuracies of these models are not well known for geologically complex aquifers. In this study, synthetic data sets were used to quantify the accuracy of four analytical TTD models as affected by TTD complexity, observation errors, model selection, and tracer selection. Synthetic TTDs and tracer data were generated from existing numerical models with complex hydrofacies distributions for 1 public-supply well and 14 monitoring wells in the Central Valley, California. Analytical TTD models were calibrated to synthetic tracer data, and prediction errors were determined for estimates of TTDs and conservative tracer ( NO3−) concentrations. Analytical models included a new, scale-dependent dispersivity model (SDM) for two-dimensional transport from the water table to a well and three other established analytical models. The relative influence of the error sources (TTD complexity, observation error, model selection, and tracer selection) depended on the type of prediction. Geological complexity gave rise to complex TTDs in monitoring wells that strongly affected errors of the estimated TTDs. However, prediction errors for NO3− and median age depended more on tracer concentration errors. The SDM tended to give the most accurate estimates of the vertical velocity and other predictions, although TTD model selection had minor effects overall. Adding tracers improved predictions if the new tracers had different input histories. Studies using TTD models should focus on the factors that most strongly affect the desired predictions.
The joy of teaching with C

C# is the language developed by Microsoft to be the lingua franca of the .NET framework, which provides a rich set of libraries and a runtime environment supporting both mixed-language and cross-platform development. C# is an intermediate level class-based object oriented language, closer to the framework than C++ and more cleanly structured than Visual Basic. This paper gives hints on getting started with C#, and discusses 10 reasons that make it a joy to teach with C#.
Whole lesion quantitative CT evaluation of renal cell carcinoma: differentiation of clear cell from papillary renal cell carcinoma.

Purpose Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is the most common subtype of renal cell cancer (RCC), followed by papillary RCC (pRCC). It is important to distinguish these two subtypes because of prognostic differences and possible changes in management, especially in cases undergoing active surveillance. The purpose of our study is to evaluate the use of voxel-based whole-lesion (WL) enhancement parameters on contrast enhanced computed tomography (CECT) to distinguish ccRCC from pRCC.
Cluster-based multi-task Sparse Representation for efficient face recognition

We propose an efficient and accurate classification method based on Sparse Representation based Classification (SRC) for face recognition. In this approach, instead of using all or a subset, we use cluster centers of training samples to build SRC models. Considering the variability and redundancy of training samples, each class will be represented by a different number of representatives. In the next step, different feature vectors are extracted from this abstract training set and different modalities are formed which are then used in a multimodal sparse representation framework to classify unknown test samples. Face recognition experiments on two different face datasets confirm the proposed multimodal method has higher recognition rates in comparison to single-modality methods. The proposed method is also compared to other multi-modality classifiers and results confirm that higher recognition rates can be achieved with this method.