cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
SPACELIKE SOLUTIONS OF INFINITE-COMPONENT WAVE FUNCTIONS.

A necessary and sufficient condition for the existence of spacelike solutions is given for infinite-component wave equations which are linear in the momentum and for which the charge operator is positive definite. The condition is used to establish the existence of spacelike solutions for wave equations of the Abers-Grodsky-Norton type, i.e., wave equations of the form $({\ensuremath{\gamma}}_{\ensuremath{\mu}}{p}_{\ensuremath{\mu}}\ensuremath{-}M)\ensuremath{\psi}=0$, where ${\ensuremath{\gamma}}_{\ensuremath{\mu}}$ are the Dirac $\ensuremath{\gamma}$'s, and $M$ is an $\mathrm{SL}(2,C)$ invariant with nontrivial dependence on ${\ensuremath{\gamma}}_{\ensuremath{\mu}}$. An interpretation of the spacelike solutions is given for one simple model and suggests that the occurrence of the spacelike solutions in general is simply a reflection of the composite nature of the particles being described. It is also shown that if the current operator has no explicit momentum dependence and the particles are assigned to a representation of $\mathrm{SL}(2,C)$, then current conservation is equivalent to a wave equation.
The diagnostic accuracy of duplex ultrasonography for evaluating carotid bifurcation

background: In many medical centers the standard preoperative study for patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy is four-vessel carotid arteriography, but duplex scanning of the carotid bifurcation is also reported to be highly accurate for detecting stenotic or occluded carotid arteries. methods: The diagnostic accuracy of duplex ultrasonography was evaluated in a study of 774 carotid bifurcations, in 400 patients comparing the degree of predicted internal carotid artery (ICA) stenosis found using that technique, with that found by contrast arteriography. Agreement between the predicted degree of ICA stenosis and the arteriographic measurement was evaluated using the Spearman rank order correlation. Accuracy statistics for duplex scanning as a diagnostic modality were assessed using 2 × 2 tables. results: The Spearman rank order correlation coefficient was 0.74 ( P = 0) for the symptomatic group, 0.65 ( P = 0) for the asymptomatic group, and 0.68 ( P = 0) for the total group. The accuracy of duplex ultrasonography for detecting all grades of ICA stenosis ranged from 80% to 97%. conclusions: Duplex ultrasonography of the carotid bifurcation is a reliable diagnostic tool and can be used as the sole preoperative study for selected patients with extracranial cerebrovascular disease. Our current algorithm is discussed in conjunction with a critical analysis of this large database.
P3-S1.10 Using electronic medical record data to guide expedited partner therapy implementation in an urban STD clinic system, 2009

Background Expedited partner therapy (EPT) is the practice of providing treatment without a clinical assessment to sex partners of patients with a diagnosed STD. EPT is legal for Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) infections in New York State. To guide EPT implementation at New York City STD (NYC STD) clinics, we estimated potential EPT use and EPT treatments to dispense. Methods We analysed electronic medical record data for heterosexual patient visits to NYC STD clinics in 2009. To estimate potential EPT use, we measured: proportion clinic patients with presumptive diagnosis of mucopurulent cervicitis (MPC); nonspecific urethritis (NGU); contacts of both who tested positive for CT; patients with laboratory-confirmed genital CT infection; and proportion treated on day of visit. To guide policy on EPT treatments to dispense, we measured the median number of sex partners reported by CT-infected persons in the previous 3 months. To determine whether to route CT contacts to a physician (MD) visit (full STD evaluation) or an express visit (EV), we assessed STD diagnoses among CT contacts. Results Among clinic patients with presumptive diagnoses of MPC, NGU, and contacts of both, CT prevalence was MPC, 14% (293/2144); MPC contact, 15% (38/257); NGU, 23% (1553/6744); and NGU contact, 17% (113/677). Of 40 099 patients tested for CT, 13% (5402/40 099) had a laboratory-confirmed CT infection. Of those, 79% (4288/5402) had been treated presumptively on day of visit. Males (n=4551) and females (n=3186) reported a median of two and one sex partners, respectively. Of 3561 contacts with CT diagnosis, 2339 (66%) were asymptomatic on day of visit and were routed to EV. Of those, 936 (40%) had >1 diagnosis other than CT; 22% of those (205) had a diagnosis of herpes simplex virus, human papillomavirus, trichomoniasis, or bacterial vaginosis. Conclusion EPT is recommended only for heterosexual patients with laboratory-confirmed CT diagnosis because CT-prevalence was low among patients presumptively diagnosed with either MPC or NGU and their contacts. Approximately 20% of CT-infected persons qualify for EPT; the majority of CT-infected persons are treated on day of visit. EPT-eligible patients should be offered up to three treatments for sex partners. Asymptomatic CT contacts reporting they have taken EPT should be routed to EV; those who report not taking EPT should be routed to an MD visit regardless of symptoms. Symptomatic CT contacts should receive an MD visit.
A Dating Error in Flannery O'Connor's “A Stroke of Good Fortune”

Although often regarded as a lesser effort, Flannery O'Connor's “A Stroke of Good Fortune” may be due some critical reconsideration—a prospect encouraged rather than diminished by the recognition o...
Chronic kidney disease in children: the global perspective

In contrast to the increasing availability of information pertaining to the care of children with chronic kidney disease (CKD) from large-scale observational and interventional studies, epidemiological information on the incidence and prevalence of pediatric CKD is currently limited, imprecise, and flawed by methodological differences between the various data sources. There are distinct geographic differences in the reported causes of CKD in children, in part due to environmental, racial, genetic, and cultural (consanguinity) differences. However, a substantial percentage of children develop CKD early in life, with congenital renal disorders such as obstructive uropathy and aplasia/hypoplasia/dysplasia being responsible for almost one half of all cases. The most favored end-stage renal disease (ESRD) treatment modality in children is renal transplantation, but a lack of health care resources and high patient mortality in the developing world limits the global provision of renal replacement therapy (RRT) and influences patient prevalence. Additional efforts to define the epidemiology of pediatric CKD worldwide are necessary if a better understanding of the full extent of the problem, areas for study, and the potential impact of intervention is desired.
Role of a Ca2+-dependent slow afterhyperpolarization in prostaglandin E2-induced sensitization of cultured rat sensory neurons

Abstract To determine if inhibition of a Ca 2+ -dependent slow afterhyperpolarization (AHP slow ) contributes to prostaglandin E 2 (PGE 2 )induced sensitization of DRG neurons, we have used patch-clamp electrophysiological techniques on cultured dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons from the adult rat. In support of a role for AHPslow in sensitization of DRG neurons, we demonstrate that: (1) AHP slow expression is restricted to a subpopulation of putative nociceptors; (2) burst duration is controlled by AHP slow in these neurons; and (3) in some neurons, PGE 2 decreases AHP slow and produces a concomitant increase in the number of action potentials generated in response to depolarizing current injection. However, our results also demonstrate that AHP slow modulation is not sufficient to explain PGE 2 -induced sensitization in the majority of DRG neurons because: (1) the size of the population of DRG neurons expressing AHP slow is less than half the size of the population of DRG neurons sensitized by PGE 2 ; (2) PGE 2 produces a decrease in action potential threshold as well as an increase in the number of action potentials in response to current injection, while inhibition of AHP slow has little effect on threshold; and (3) the sensitizing effects of PGE 2 are dissociated from its effects on AHP slow in more than half of neurons tested. We conclude that PGE 2 -induced sensitization must involve the modulation of ionic currents in addition to that underlying AHP slow .
Theory of binary alloys including short-range order properties

A new method for studying the electronic structure of binary alloys within the tight-binding framework is presented and developed in detail. The method involves treating part of the system exactly as a cluster of atoms and simulating the rest of the environment by connecting to each atom at the surface of the cluster a Bethe lattice of the same coordination number. The method includes from its inception the idea of short-range correlation effects of a nearest-neighbor order parameter. Clusters of different size have been studied and analyzed in detail. An illustrative example is presented to show the striking differences which appear in various concentration sequences. These sequences are selected to be (i) random, (ii) with a tendency to segregation, and (iii) with a tendency to form binary compounds. The results emphasize the need to include short-range correlation effects when dealing with alloys. The method also provides a clear identification of localized states. In addition, it gives very naturally the position of band edges and energy gaps. The method, when averaged over all alloys with equal concentration and all short-range order parameters, reproduces in a satisfactory way the results of the single-site coherent-potential approximation.
The Scientific Impact of Nations: Journal Placement and Citation Performance

International collaboration is becoming increasingly important for the advancement of science. To gain a more precise understanding of how factors such as international collaboration influence publication success, we divide publication success into two categories: journal placement and citation performance. Analyzing all papers published between 1996 and 2012 in eight disciplines, we find that those with more countries in their affiliations performed better in both categories. Furthermore, specific countries vary in their effects both individually and in combination. Finally, we look at the relationship between national output (in papers published) and input (in citations received) over the 17 years, expanding upon prior depictions by also plotting an expected proportion of citations based on Journal Placement. Discrepancies between this expectation and the realized proportion of citations illuminate trends in performance, such as the decline of the Global North in response to rapidly developing countries, especially China. Yet, most countries' show little to no discrepancy, meaning that, in most cases, citation proportion can be predicted by Journal Placement alone. This reveals an extreme asymmetry between the opinions of a few reviewers and the degree to which paper acceptance and citation rates influence career advancement.
Electronic structure and reactivity of defect MoS2 II. Bonding and activation of hydrogen on surface defect sites and clusters

Abstract The defects of MoS 2 were investigated for activation of hydrogen using density functional theory by modeling the molybdenum disulfide monomer, small clusters, and edges in periodic structures. Attachment of H 2 to the MoS 2 molecule was studied in detail, and several structures were found by optimization methods. A dihydride with the hydrogen atoms far apart was determined to be most stable. In this configuration, the σ* orbital of the H 2 mixes with the 4d orbitals of Mo and 3p orbitals of S to achieve the hydrogen activation. The less stable η 2 hydrogen configuration has the H–H bond slightly stretched with the H atoms equidistant from the Mo center. A triangular Mo 7 S 14 cluster provides a small model with edges resembling those of the cut MoS 2 sheets. On this cluster, both the η 2 hydrogen and the dihydride occur. In the periodic system, atomic hydrogen adsorbs in stable positions on the MoS 2 edges either bridging between Mo atoms or attached to Mo or S atoms. The frequencies of H vibrations are found to be highly dependent on the atom(s) to which the hydrogen is attached, and range from 1223 cm −1 for a position bridging two Mo atoms, to about 1860 cm −1 for Mo–H bonds, to about 2500 cm −1 for S–H bonds. In addition, some configurations with molecular H 2 adsorption on the edges were investigated, and the H–H frequency of 2999 cm −1 was calculated for a dihydride configuration.
The civilian version of the Mississippi PTSD Scale: A psychometric evaluation.

This three-part study examined the reliability and validity of the civilian version of the Mississippi Scale for Combat-Related PTSD using data from the nonveteran participants in the National Vietnam Veterans Readjustment Study. The Civilian Mississippi Scale had a raw score distribution that was roughly symmetric, with an acceptable degree of dispersion and a reasonably high internal consistency reliability coefficient. Overall, however, measurement precision was weaker than that for the military version of the instrument, and confirmatory factor analytic findings differed from those found for the military version. Preliminary investigations of validity were in the form of correlations with indices of stressful life events, a PTSD symptom count, and measures of demoralization and active expression of hostility. The Civilian Mississippi Scale emerged from the various analyses as a PTSD measure with potential but requiring further validational study and perhaps some refinement.
Social Phobia Obscured by Disruptive Behavior Disorder: A Case Study

There is extensive literature on disruptive behavior and on anxiety and a growing literature on co-morbidity. But there is little literature on co-morbidity between disruptive behavior and anxiety, and we found none that specifically discusses social phobia. Because internalizing problems are more difficult to detect than externalizing problems, the latter may obscure the former when they occur together, especially with subtle internalizing problems such as social phobia. We present a case involving co-morbidity between disruptive behavior and social phobia in a 14-year-old boy in residential care. Treatment for social phobia, involving modified public interactions, social-skills training, exposure and reinforcement-based feedback, reduced a high rate of disruptive behavior to near-zero rates.
Best L1-approximation of bounded, approximately continuous functions on [0, 1] by nondecreasing functions

Abstract Let Ω denote the closed interval [0, 1] and let bA denote the set of all bounded, approximately continuous functions on Ω. Let f ϵ bA . It is shown that f has an (essentially) unique best L 1 -approximation f 1 by nondecreasing functions; f 1 is shown to be continuous. For 1 p -approximations f p are shown to be continuous, and they are shown to converge uniformly to f 1 as p → 1. A characterization of f 1 is given. It is also shown that if f n ϵ bA , 0 ≦ n n converges to f 0 in L 1 as n → ∞, then f 1 n → f 1 0 in L 1 as n → ∞.
Varieties of Administrative Abuse: Some Reflections on Ethics and Discretion

If we are to succeed in crafting appropriate solutions to prevent abuses of administrative discretion, we must pay serious attention to three major perspectives that shape the exercise of administrative authority: the perspective of lawmakers, who create at least four different kinds of discretion; the perspective of clients, who may suffer from one or more of five major forms of administrative abuse; and the perspective of practitioners, who are influenced in varying ways by the moral propensities of the work setting. The article concludes with a brief discussion and illustration of how these multiple perspectives need to be taken into account when devising solutions to prevent various abuses of administrative discretion.
Thoracic outlet syndrome in high-performance athletes

Objective Repetitive upper extremity use in high-performance athletes is associated with the development of neurogenic and vascular thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS). Surgical therapy in appropriately selected patients can provide relief of symptoms and protection from future disability. We sought to determine the incidence and timing of competitive athletes to return to their prior high-performance level after TOS treatment and surgery. Methods We reviewed all competitive high school, collegiate, and professional athletes treated for venous or neurogenic TOS (nTOS) from 2000 to 2012. Patient demographics, workup, and treatment approaches were recorded and analyzed. Patients with nTOS were assessed with quality of life surveys using the previously validated 11-item version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) scale, scored from 0 to 100 (100 = worse). Return to full athletic activity was defined as returning to prior competitive high school, collegiate, or professional sports. Results During the study period, 41 competitive athletes (44% female) with a mean age of 19 years, were treated, comprising 13 baseball/softball players, 11 swimmers, 5 water polo players, 4 rowers, 2 volleyball players, 2 synchronized swimmers, 1 wrestler, 1 diver, 1 weightlifter, and 1 football player. Twenty-seven athletes (66%) were treated for nTOS, and 14 (34%) had Paget-Schroetter syndrome (PSS). All PSS patients underwent typical treatment of consisting of thrombolysis/anticoagulation, followed by first rib resection. Most nTOS patients were treated according to our previously reported highly selective algorithm, beginning with TOS-specific physical therapy (PT) after the clinical diagnosis was made. Because of mild to modest symptom improvement after PT, 67% of the nTOS athletes evaluated ultimately underwent supraclavicular first rib resection and brachial plexus neurolysis. Return to full competitive athletics was achieved in 85% of all patients, including 93% of the PSS patients and 81% of the nTOS athletes, at an average of 4.6 months after the intervention. In the nTOS cohort successfully returning to prior sports ability, seven (32%) were treated only with PT. Of those athletes who underwent surgery for nTOS, 83% returned to full competitive levels. QuickDASH disability scores improved from a mean of 40.4 preoperatively to 11.7 postoperatively, indicating significant improvement in symptoms after treatment. Recurrence of symptoms was noted in two nTOS (7%) and two PSS (14%) athletes. Conclusions Standardized treatment algorithms for venous and nTOS and aggressive TOS-specific PT are key components to optimizing clinical outcomes in this special cohort of TOS patients. Most athletes treated for venous and nTOS can successfully return to competitive sports at their prior high-performance level.
Abstract C55: Detachment of epithelial cells is driven by myosin-based contractility and RhoA

Metastasis requires shedding and migration of individual cells from the tumor. In tumors of epithelial origin, cells often maintain strong cell-cell interactions that must be disassembled prior to cell detachment. Remodeling of cell-cell adhesions occurs during epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), a developmental process where individual cells are triggered to detach and migrate to distant sites by developmental signaling programs. It is thought that inappropriate activation of EMT drives metastasis, particularly by allowing detachment and migration of cancer cells. While much is known about migration and invasion, how cell-cell junctions are detached remains poorly understood. Here we sought to examine how changes in adhesion and contractility are coupled to drive detachment of individual epithelial cells during hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/ scatter factor-induced EMT. We find that HGF signaling actually increases cell-cell adhesion between cells in suspension, suggesting that changes in cell-cell adhesion are not enough to drive epithelial scattering. Instead, cell-substrate adhesion seems to play a bigger role. Cell-substrate adhesion increases upon HGF stimulation and alterations in the pliability of the subtratum alter cells9 ability to undergo scattering. Interestingly, scattering is impaired in cells expressing both active and inactive RhoA mutants. While this also indicates a role for important changes in cell-substrate adhesion during cell-cell detachment, RhoA also affects myosin-based contractility. We sought to examine how myosin-based contractility contributes to cell-cell detachment. Inhibition of Rho kinase or myosin II induces the same effect on cells, namely initiation of cell spreading and an inability to rupture cell-cell adhesions in response to HGF treatment. Interestingly, when cell spreading is induced by transient treatment of cells with blebbistatin, blebbistatin washout results in cellular events that closely resemble HGF-induced epithelial scattering. This suggests that global suppression and subsequent induction of myosin II activity may be sufficient to rupture cell-cell adhesions. Such experiments also suggest a role for RhoA, as blebbistatin-induced scattering is not fully completed in cells expressing a dominant-negative RhoA mutant. Taken together, these results suggest that cell-cell detachment is controlled by contractility, with a contribution by RhoA-mediated changes in cell adhesion. Citation Format: Jacob Peter Hoj, Kendra Fullmer, John Davis, David Morrell, MDH Hansen. Detachment of epithelial cells is driven by myosin-based contractility and RhoA. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Tumor Invasion and Metastasis; Jan 20-23, 2013; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(3 Suppl):Abstract nr C55.
Connectivity at infinity for right angled Artin groups

We establish sufficient conditions implying semistability and connectivity at infinity properties for CAT(0) cubical complexes. We use this, along with the geometry of cubical K(π, 1)’s to give a complete description of the higher connectivity at infinity properties of right angled Artin groups. Among other things, this determines which right angled Artin groups are duality groups. Applications to group extensions are also included.
Bacteriuria in patients with cirrhosis

The prevalence and bacteriology of bacteriuria was studied in 140 patients with cirrhosis of the liver, referred to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center for evaluation for liver transplantation (72 males and 68 females; mean age 46 years). Urine samples were obtained for cultures within 24 h after admission. Significant bacteriuria (SB) (>10 5 bacteria/ml) was present in 25 patients (18%), the most common being E. coli (36%) and coagulase-negative staphylococcus (20%). SB was more common in females than in males (32 vs. 4%, p
Carbomycin resistance in mouse L cells.

A mutant has been isolated from the mouse cell line LM(TK−) which is stably resistant to the macrolide antibiotic, carbomycin. Mitochondrial protein synthesis in this mutant was carbomycin resistant and chloramphenicol sensitive. Fusions between carbomycin-resistant and -sensitive cells produced hybrids, most of which were sensitive to 10 μg/ml carbomycin. At 7.5 μg carbomycin/ml, the average population resistance is low initially but increases with time. Carbomycin-resistant cells were enucleated and fused with carbomycin-sensitive cells under a variety of selective regimes designed to allow growth of carbomycin-resistant cytoplasmic hybrids (cybrids). No transfer of carbomycin resistance via the cytoplasm was detected. Karyoplasts from carbomycin-resistant cells showed a low transfer of resistance to 7.5 μg carbomycin/ml in karyoplast-cell fusions. Carbomycin resistance in this mutant is therefore most likely encoded in a nuclear gene.
Autonomous System for Multistage Cylindrical Grinding

An optimization strategy is presented for cylindrical plunge grinding operations. The optimization strategy is designed to minimize cycle time while satisfying production constraints. Monotonicity analysis together with local linearization are used to simplify the non-linear optimization problem and determine the process variables for the optimal cycle. At the end of each cycle, the uncertain parameters of the process are estimated from sensory data so as to provide a more accurate estimation of the optimal process variables for the subsequent cycle. The optimization strategy is validated both in simulation and for actual grinding tests.
Cloning of the cDNA coding for rat brain CMP-NeuAc:GD3 α2-8 sialyltransferase

Abstract The cDNA coding for GT3-synthase has been cloned from a rat fetal brain cDNA library. The complete nucleotide sequence and the deduced amino acid sequence of the rat GT3-synthase cDNA were highly homologous to those of the mouse GT3-synthase. Quantitative RT-PCR showed that, as a key enzyme for the synthesis of `c'-series gangliosides, the expression of GT3-synthase was developmentally regulated in embryonic rat brains.
Energy resolved measurements of the diffuse scattering near the roughening transition of Ni(113)

In this report we present a detailed study of the elastic and inelastic scattering of helium from Ni(113). Ni(113) is known to undergo a roughening transition with a roughening temperature of TR = 750 ± 50 K, as determined from line shape analysis. However, we observe a decrease in the one-phonon scattering at a temperature ∼ 600 K for all scattering geometries. The reduced one-phonon scattering is correlated with an increase in the width of single-phonon line shapes from time-of-flight experiments. These effects suggest that the mean lifetime of a surface phonon is decaying 100–150 K below TR. In addition, we also observe the true elastic diffuse scattering to increase beginning near 600 K. These results are discussed in terms of phonon-defect scattering from isolated kinks forming below TR. The formation of these kinks and the temperature dependence of the diffuse elastic scattering is found to be consistent with the temperature singularity expected in a Kosterlitz-Thouless roughening transition.
Smooth local sinusoidal bases on two-dimensional L-shaped regions

In this article, we construct two-dimensional continuous/smooth local sinusoidal bases (also called Malvar wavelets) defined onL-shaped regions. With this construction, one is able to construct local sinusoidal bases and lapped orthogonal transforms (LOT) on arbitrarily shaped regions. This work is motivated from and useful in object-based video coding, where a segmented moving object may have arbitrary shape and block transform coding of this object is needed.
Epizootiology of fascioliasis in Montana.

Abstract During 1989–1990, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) meat inspection records were used to determine the distribution and incidence of liver flukes (Fasciola hepatica and Fascioloides magna) in Montana cattle. Of the cows and bulls slaughtered in USDA-inspected packing plants during a 12 month time period, 17.24% had livers that were condemned because of liver flukes. This was a 12% increase over USDA liver condemnations reported for 1973. Infected animals have been reported from 26 counties in Montana, mostly located in the south-central and western half of the state. Forty-nine percent of the 2.4 million cattle in Montana are raised in these counties. Lymnaeid snail species that may serve as intermediate hosts for Fasciola hepatica were found in most of the counties where liver flukes were reported. The principal vectors believed to be responsible for the transmission of Fasciola hepatica in Montana are species of the genus Fossaria. Stagnicola montanensis and Lymnaea stagnalis, which may serve as intermediate hosts for this parasite have also been collected. A known intermediate host for Fascioloides magna, Stagnicola caperata, was also found in several locations.
Analog giant dipole excitation in Si(n, p) at 59.6 MeV

Abstract The parent analog of the giant dipole resonance in 28 Si is studied by means of the (n, p) reaction. The continuum contribution to the giant dipole region was estimated by a phenomenological parameterization. The observed cross section exhausts 31% of the SJ sum rule; 88% of the GT sum rule or 67% of the Myers-Swiatecki prediction. A comparison is made to the giant resonance region observed in the 28 Si(p, p') reaction which was recently used, via comparison to 28 Si(α, α'), to infer that the GDR in 28 Si is not excited or at least not seen in (p, p').
Adolescents with Active or Inactive Epilepsy or Asthma: A Comparison of Quality of Life

Summary: Purpose: We compared quality of life (QOL) in youth with inactive or active epilepsy with that of a similar sample of youth with asthma. We explored 19 different dimensions in three domains (psychological, social, and school) and also determined differences related to illness severity and gender. Methods: Subjects were 228 adolescents (117 with epilepsy and 111 with asthma). Data were collected from clinic records and from the adolescents, their mothers, and their teachers through questionnaires and structured interviews. Data were analyzed by analysis of covariance. Results: The analysis with all 19 QOL variables indicated a significant difference between the total asthma and the total epilepsy samples (multivariate F = 3.36, p = 0.0001). Further evaluation reflected differences between the epilepsy group and the asthma group on 13 of the 19 QOL variables. When active and inactive epilepsy and asthma groups were compared, youth with active epilepsy were faring worse than all other groups in 10 areas. Moreover, youth with inactive epilepsy were faring worse than those with inactive asthma in four areas. Illness severity and sex differences were more strongly related to QOL in the epilepsy sample than in the asthma sample. Sex-severity interactions suggested that girls with high seizure severity were most at risk for QOL problems. Conclusions: Youth with active epilepsy generally had the poorest QOL. Severe seizures and female sex were associated with more problems. Sex-severity interactions should be explored in future research.
Toward defining tolerances for structural defects in silicon through 2D and 3D device simulations

We present a Technology Computer Aided Design (TCAD) implementation of literature models for the recombination activity of extended structural defects in crystalline silicon (c-Si) using the software package Synopsys Sentaurus Device. The model is validated using literature and experimental electron beam-induced current (EBIC) data. This implementation could potentially be used to determine tolerances for these defects in various materials and device architectures.
Wave transport for a scalar model of the Love waves

We study transport for a scalar model of Love waves. These waves arise in the propagation of seismic waves whose energy is concentrated in the vicinity of the earth surface. We derive radiative transfer equations from first principles for the angularly resolved energy density of the Love waves in a simplified acoustic model. We consider a rough top surface with weak fluctuations at the scale of the wavelength. The transport equation accounts for the multiple scattering of the Love waves and their scattering into volume waves. We also analyze a diffusive regime when energy is universally distributed over various modes of the Love waves.
Spontaneous localization in InAs/GaAs self-assembled quantum-dot molecules

Spontaneous localization of hole states is predicted at all separations in vertically stacked InAs/GaAs self-assembled quantum dots. Eight-band k⋅p theory shows that valence band mixing enhanced by the unique three-dimensional strain distribution, subjects holes to very different environment than electrons. As a result, low energy holes are confined to their respective dots without forming bonding or antibonding states. This localization plays the same role as a vertically applied electric field in coupled quantum systems, and substantially decreases the exciton binding energy, which may be an impediment to the formation of entangled states in quantum-dot molecules.
Regulation of levels of IL-1 mRNA in human fibroblasts

Interleukin-1 (IL-1) has a crucial role in host defenses, inflammatory processes, and tissue homeostasis. A wide variety of cells produce this protein in response to a number of extracellular stimuli including microorganisms, antigenic stimuli, and products from other cells. Regulation of IL-1 production at the molecular level is poorly understood. We studied expression, intracellular signals, and posttranscriptional regulation of IL-1 mRNA in human mesenchymal cells by using Northern blot analysis. Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha) and activators of protein kinase C including 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) and teleocidin induced the accumulation of IL-1 beta mRNA in human fibroblasts (WI-38). Effect of TNF alpha was not blocked by inhibitors of either protein synthesis (cycloheximide) or protein kinase C activity. Accumulation of IL-1 beta mRNA was also increased by a calcium ionophore (A23187) and an inhibitor of the Na+/K+ pump (ouabain); both compounds are known to increase cytoplasmic levels of Ca++. Stability of IL-1 beta mRNA in fibroblasts exposed to TPA was more than fourfold greater than after fibroblasts were exposed to either TNF alpha or cycloheximide. This suggests that posttranscriptional stabilization of IL-1 beta mRNA is a major mechanism leading to accumulation of IL-1 beta mRNA after activation of PKC in fibroblasts. Fibroblasts did not express IL-1 alpha mRNA after exposure to stimuli which induced the accumulation of IL-1 beta mRNA. In summary, several different pathways regulate levels of IL-1 beta mRNA in human mesenchymal cells.
Insurance Fraud: Losses, Liabilities, and September 11

ABSTRACT : This instructional case presents available facts and circumstances surrounding Fortress Reinsurance (Fortress Re). Fortress Re, an agent securing aviation reinsurance, managed a reinsurance pool that covered all four planes involved in the September 11, 2001 disaster. Fortress Re had engaged in deceptive financial reporting, misleading its business partners to believe they were protected in the event of catastrophic loss. The events on 9/11 led to the discovery of this fraud, resulting in multiple lawsuits against Fortress Re, its owners, and its auditor, Deloitte. The case explores the questionable financial reporting and auditing practices employed, as well as significant charitable contributions made with fraudulent funds. The case can serve as an instructional resource for teaching financial accounting, auditing, tax, ethics, and law. The instructional use of this case has been tested in undergraduate and graduate classes. The case can improve students' research skills, since students must...
Broadband Multicasting for Wavelength-Striped Optical Packets

Wavelength-striped optical packet multicasting comprises a potentially important functionality for future energy-efficient network applications. We report on two multicast-capable architectures to experimentally demonstrate multiwavelength packet multicasting in an optical switching fabric testbed. The first design uses programmable packet-splitter-and-delivery that simultaneously supports the nonblocking unicast, multicast, and broadcast of high-bandwidth optical packets with parallel switches. This realization achieves the error-free multicasting of optical messages with 810 Gb/s payloads, with confirmed bit-error rates less than , and scalability of per-channel data rates to 40 Gb/s. We then introduce a second multistage multicasting architecture with lower hardware and energy costs, with the design trade-off of more complex routing logic; the experimental demonstration shows the successful switching and error-free multicasting of 8 10 Gb/s optical packets. The energy costs in terms of the capital and operational expenditures are then compared for the two designs, showing the benefits of the second multicast architecture.
Experimental investigation of the intermediates of isooctane during ignition

Direct measurements of intermediates of ignition are challenging experimental objectives, yet such measurements are critical for understanding fuel decomposition and oxidation pathways. In the current work, a new gas-sampling system is used to provide quantitative discrete measurements of 30 hydrocarbon and oxygenate species during rapid compression facility studies of isooctane ignition. Two target conditions and equivalence ratios (based on molar fuel to oxygen ratio) were studied (P = 5.2 atm, T = 1000 K, ϕ = 0.4 and P = 4.8 atm, T = 975 K, ϕ = 1.2). The results are compared with model predictions that use the detailed reaction mechanism developed by Curran et al. (Combust Flame 2002, 129, 253–280). In general, the model predictions are in excellent agreement with the experimental data, including several trace species. Isobutene (i-C4H8) and propene (C3H6) were the major olefin species identified in the experiments. The results are consistent with an intermediate temperature reaction path sequence, where isooctane is consumed by H-atom abstraction to yield isooctyl radicals that undergo β-scission to form olefin and alkyl radical species. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 39: 498–517, 2007
A Health Prognosis Wearable System with Learning Capabilities Using NNs

The deployment of Wearable Health Monitoring Systems (WHMS) is expected to address several important healthcare-related issues such as increasing healthcare costs, the rising number of the elderly population and treatment of chronic conditions. However, most of the currently developed WHMS simply serve as ambulatory physiological data loggers and transmitters in order to make the recorded bio-signals remotely available for inspection from a supervising physician. In this paper we describe our efforts towards setting-up a WHMS prototype that is capable of providing individualized embedded decision/diagnosis support for round-the-clock remote health monitoring of people at risk. To realize this goal an ANN-based approach is adopted, whereby a supervised learning period is required in order to embed patient-specific medical knowledge into the system, which will then enable it to make more accurate and “safer” estimations about the user’s health condition.
Using Google Earth to Conduct a Neighborhood Audit: Reliability of a Virtual Audit Instrument

Abstract Over the last two decades, the impact of community characteristics on the physical and mental health of residents has emerged as an important frontier of research in population health and health disparities. However, the development and evaluation of measures to capture community characteristics is still at a relatively early stage. The purpose of this work was to assess the reliability of a neighborhood audit instrument administered in the city of Chicago using Google Street View by comparing these “virtual” data to those obtained from an identical instrument administered “in-person”. We find that a virtual audit instrument can provide reliable indicators of recreational facilities, the local food environment, and general land use. However, caution should be exercised when trying to gather more finely detailed observations. Using the internet to conduct a neighborhood audit has the potential to significantly reduce the costs of collecting data objectively and unobtrusively.
Spatially adaptive techniques for level set methods and incompressible flow

Abstract Since the seminal work of [Sussman, M, Smereka P, Osher S. A level set approach for computing solutions to incompressible two-phase flow. J Comput Phys 1994;114:146–59] on coupling the level set method of [Osher S, Sethian J. Fronts propagating with curvature-dependent speed: algorithms based on Hamilton–Jacobi formulations. J Comput Phys 1988;79:12–49] to the equations for two-phase incompressible flow, there has been a great deal of interest in this area. That work demonstrated the most powerful aspects of the level set method, i.e. automatic handling of topological changes such as merging and pinching, as well as robust geometric information such as normals and curvature. Interestingly, this work also demonstrated the largest weakness of the level set method, i.e. mass or information loss characteristic of most Eulerian capturing techniques. In fact, [Sussman M, Smereka P, Osher S. A level set approach for computing solutions to incompressible two-phase flow. J Comput Phys 1994;114:146–59] introduced a partial differential equation for battling this weakness, without which their work would not have been possible. In this paper, we discuss both historical and most recent works focused on improving the computational accuracy of the level set method focusing in part on applications related to incompressible flow due to both of its popularity and stringent accuracy requirements. Thus, we discuss higher order accurate numerical methods such as Hamilton–Jacobi WENO [Jiang G-S, Peng D. Weighted ENO schemes for Hamilton–Jacobi equations. SIAM J Sci Comput 2000;21:2126–43], methods for maintaining a signed distance function, hybrid methods such as the particle level set method [Enright D, Fedkiw R, Ferziger J, Mitchell I. A hybrid particle level set method for improved interface capturing. J Comput Phys 2002;183:83–116] and the coupled level set volume of fluid method [Sussman M, Puckett EG. A coupled level set and volume-of-fluid method for computing 3d and axisymmetric incompressible two-phase flows. J Comput Phys 2000;162:301–37], and adaptive gridding techniques such as the octree approach to free surface flows proposed in [Losasso F, Gibou F, Fedkiw R. Simulating water and smoke with an octree data structure, ACM Trans Graph (SIGGRAPH Proc) 2004;23:457–62].
UV induced (6-4) photoproducts are distributed differently than cyclobutane dimers in nucleosomes.

— We have compared the distributions of two stable UV photoproducts in nucleosome core DNA at the single-nucleotide level using a T4 polymerase-exonuclease mapping procedure. The distribution of pyrimidine-pyrimidone (6-4) dimers was uncovered by reversing the major UV photo-product, cis-syn cyclobutane pyrimidine dimer, with E. coli DNA photolyase and photoreactivating light. Whereas the distribution of total UV photoproducts in nucleosome core DNA forms a striking 10.3 base periodic pattern, the distribution of (6-4) dimers is much more random throughout the nucleosome core domain. Therefore, histone-DNA interactions in nucleosomes strongly modulate formation of the major class of UV-induced photoproducts, while having either a constant effect or no effect on (6-4) dimer formation.
Interface waves propagating along tensile fractures in dolomite

Elastic interface waves have been observed in induced tensile fractures in dolomite rock cores. Multiscaling wavelet analysis distinguishes the interface wave from bulk shear waves, quantifies the interface wave spectral content, and determines the arrival time of the peak energy. The dominant seismic energy is concentrated in the slow interface wave, with little or no detectable energy in the fast wave. As the stress across the fracture increases, the slow interface wave velocity increases, and the frequency of the spectral peak shifts to higher frequencies. The shear dynamic specific stiffness of the fracture was calculated from the peak energy arrival time as a function of stress.
Application of the XCORFE long range heteronuclear correlation sequence to several biphenyls and m-quaterphenyls

A series of highly substituted biphenyls and m-quaterphenyls have been synthesized and carbon and proton NMR spectra have been assigned by a combination of 1D and 2D techniques. The XCORFE variation of the long range heteronuclear correlation experiment was found to be particularly valuable in making assignments via H-C-C-13C correlations.
Biphasic effects of genistein on bone tissue in the ovariectomized, lactating rat model.

The ovariectomized (OVX), lactating rat model has been used to investigate the skeletal effects of the plant estrogen, genistein, over a 14-day period. The OVX, lactating rat on a low-calcium diet loses slightly more than 50% of its bone mineral mass during the first 2 weeks of lactation, and we have demonstrated that estrogen treatment can significantly reduce the loss of femoral mass (ash weight). Following OVX, the rats were assigned to treatment or control groups (both placebo and positive control with estrogen replacement). The treatment groups received one of three doses of a genistein-rich preparation each day via the feed for 2 weeks, after which time the pups began to have an interest in solid feed. A positive control group received conjugated estrogen in the feed. The genistein doses were: low (0.5 mg/d); intermediate (1.6 mg/d); and high (5.0 mg/d). Measurements included ash weights of the femur, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of the proximal tibia, and uterine weights. SEM results were as follows: (1) at the low dose genistein was approximately equally effective to estrogen in the retention of cancellous bone tissue, as reflected in the number and density of trabeculae in hemisections of the tibial subepiphyseal region, but at high doses genistein was less effective; and (2) rats treated with low-dose genistein, like estradiol, had rougher endosteal surfaces and smaller pores on these surfaces than untreated control rats. Mean ash weights of the entire femur were highest in the rats treated with the low dose compared to control rats (P < 0.05), and they were higher than ash weights of rats administered the intermediate or high doses of genistein. The mean ash weights of the femurs were consistent with the genistein effects on the tibias observed by SEM. In summary, a biphasic response to the genistein preparation was found in this OVX rat model. Interpretation of the results suggests that, at the low dose, genistein appears to be an agonist at the estrogen receptor locus, whereas at higher doses the genistein is less effective and may even have adverse effects on bone cells. These findings of a biphasic effect of genistein (i.e., an inverted U effect) are consistent with those of other recent reports in the literature on isolated bone cells and on reproductive tissues. In summary, lower doses of genistein from soy foods would be expected to act similarly to estrogens with a beneficial effect on bone tissue, but at high doses that are unlikely to be consumed in human diets, this soy derivative may have potentially adverse effects on bone cell functions and thereby on bone tissue.
Dealing with Work Stress and Strain: Is the Perception of Support more Important than its Use?

The authors conducted a study of the relationship between the perception and use of support in one's work environment and their effects on perceived stress and strain. The analytic sample consisted...
Das System der sozialen Sicherung

Unter dem System der sozialen Sicherung i. e. S. versteht man die Summe aller Einrichtungen und Masnahmen, die das Ziel haben, die Burger gegen die Risiken zu schutzen, die verbunden sind a) mit dem vorubergehenden oder dauernden, durch Krankheit, Mutterschaft, Unfall, Alter oder Arbeitslosigkeit bedingten Verlust von Arbeitseinkommen, b) mit dem Tod des Ernahrers (Ehepartner oder Eltern) und c) mit unplanmasigen Ausgaben im Falle von Krankheit, Mutterschaft, Unfall oder Tod.
Employee Work Attitudes: The Subtle Influence of Gender

Using the construct of job satisfaction, this study examined work attitudes of 286 females and 416 males employed in 27 female-owned and 29 male-owned small businesses in three industries: construction, manufacturing, and distribution. Job satisfaction scores (dependent variables) were analyzed with regard to the interaction of owner-employee gender. Demographic and job-related variables were also considered. The gender-moderated results are discussed in terms of methodological implications for conducting research regarding work attitudes.