cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Centroid-moment tensor solutions for April–June 1986

Abstract Centroid-moment tensor solutions are presented for 203 earthquakes that occurred during the second quarter of 1986. The solutions are obtained using corrections for aspherical Earth structure.
Key developments in high temperature structural silicides

Significant progress has been made in the past few years in both the scientific understanding of high temperature structural silicides and in their technological development. This overview highlights key aspects of this structural silicide research and development, in the areas of materials, composites, and applications. Silicide materials discussed are MoSi2, Mo5Si3, Mo<5Si3C<1, Ti5Si3, and C40 type silicides. Results on MoSi2–Si3N4, MoSi2–SiC, MoSi2–Al2O3, and MoSi2–Si3N4–SiC composites are summarized. Finally, selected applications in glass processing, wear resistance, diesel engine glow plugs, and aerospace components are described.
Pitfalls in the Echocardiographic Diagnosis of Intracardiac and Extracardiac Masses

Transthoracic and transesophageal two-dimensional (2-D) echocardiography remain the procedures of choice for evaluating cardiac mass lesions. Potential errors in diagnosis can be made, however, if the mass lesion's size, shape, mobility, and attachment to other cardiac structures are not clearly delineated. Usually a left atrial myxoma arises from the interatrial septum at the level of the fossa ovalis. Pitfalls in diagnosis occur when the tumor size is very small, or its attachment site is atypical or ill-defined. Atrial thrombi classically reside in an atrial appendage, but can also form in the body of the left atrium. The presence of atrial fibrillation rhythm, enlarged atrial chamber, prosthetic mitral/tricuspid valves, stenotic mitral/tricuspid valves, low cardiac output state, and spontaneous atrial contrast echoes are all features that favor the mass in question being a thrombus. Ventricular thrombi usually occur with poorly functioning ventricles. The diagnosis of ventricular thrombus should be made with great caution if the systolic function is normal, or if the mass has a band or thread-like appearance. A thorough knowledge of normal anatomical variants that can mimic pathological lesions is also important for reaching a correct diagnosis. Last but not least, as in all testing modalities, the patient's clinical picture should be correlated with the echocardiographic findings.
Stigmas and Stereotypes: Counseling Services for Student-Athletes

Current trends indicate that a rising number of students seek counseling services because of severe psychological problems (Gallagher, 2011). Unfortunately, it is argued that stereotypes and stigmas continue to play an important role deterring students from seeking professional help. In this study, we focus on student-athletes as a population of interest, and examine their attitudes towards counseling services through the use of quantitative survey methodology. Subscale scores on Fischer and Turner’s instrument, Attitudes Toward Seeking Professional Psychological Help Scale (ATSPPHS), were measured with a sample of 258 college students enrolled at a midsized southeastern university. The purpose of this article is to enhance readers’ understanding of student-athletes attitudes towards counseling services and the student-athlete experience as a whole. Potential explanations for the findings and implications for college counselors on how to enhance services for student athletes are provided.
New directions in computing reacting flows

Abstract The costs in computer time and memory are formidable for numerical simulations of reacting flows. Major costs are in integrating the ordinary differential equations describing the chemical reactions, evaluating diffusive transport processes and in the solution to the convective transport when there are irregular boundaries or obstacles. Dealing with these problems requires improving numerical algorithms and other software, and taking advantage of larger, faster, more accurate and friendlier computers. Over the last few decades, improved algorithms have contributed to simulation capability at least as much as hardware development. Together, hardware and software advances have increased our capability by orders of magnitude. Early one-dimensional gas-dynamics calculations were resolved with 40–50 computational cells. Such problems can now be performed in three dimensions, about 4–5 orders of magnitude more computer time, in the same time as the previous one-dimensional calculations. Here we discuss the forefront developments in computers and computational approaches, current limitations on the types of detailed computations of reactive flows, the use of phenomenological models to replace portions of the calculation, and conclude with two examples of complex reactive flow calculations.
Variability of Deep Flow in the Drake Passage from Year-Long Current Measurements

Abstract To investigate the reasons for the wide variation in previous estimates of transport of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current through the Drake Passage, an analysis of the spatial and temporal variability of currents at 2700 m depth is made from year-long current measurements on six moorings in the Drake Passage. The currents are found to vary over time scales of about two weeks and over spatial scales shorter than 80 km. An average of the six down-channel velocity components is used to estimate the spatially averaged down-channel velocity, or mean flow, at 2700 m. This mean flow varies from 7.6 to–2.9 cm s−1 and has a root-mean-square (rms) amplitude of 2.0 cm s−1 about its time-averaged value. Provided the geostrophic transport relative to 2700 m depth remains constant in time, these variations may be interpreted as temporal variations of 2 60×106 m3 s−1 in total transport with an rms amplitude of 50×106 m3 s−1. The wide variation in previous estimates of transport from short-term measurements can ...
Preassessment Procedures for Learning Disabled Children Are They Effective

Forty-one teachers who had experience with LD preassessment procedures responded to a 25-item questionnaire regarding their attitudes toward the preassessment process. The results suggested that while the teachers were pleased with the preassessment team members themselves, they did not agree that their teams' intervention recommendations were successful in correcting the referral problem. It was not clear that the teams provided any new intervention ideas or whether the teams explored a sufficient variety of intervention options. As a result of their experiences with their teams, about as many teachers reported that they will continue to refer cases to the preassessment teams as those who will not. Suggestions for improving the preassessment team process are offered.
Influence of Brownian Motion on Blood Platelet Flow Behavior and Adhesive Dynamics near a Planar Wall

We used the platelet adhesive dynamics computational method to study the influence of Brownian motion of a platelet on its flow characteristics near a surface in the creeping flow regime. Two important characterizations were done in this regard: (1) quantification of the platelet's ability to contact the surface by virtue of the Brownian forces and torques acting on it, and (2) determination of the relative importance of Brownian motion in promoting surface encounters in the presence of shear flow. We determined the Peclet number for a platelet undergoing Brownian motion in shear flow, which could be expressed as a simple linear function of height of the platelet centroid, H from the surface Pe (platelet) = . (1.56H + 0.66) for H > 0.3 microm. Our results demonstrate that at timescales relevant to shear flow in blood Brownian motion plays an insignificant role in influencing platelet motion or creating further opportunities for platelet-surface contact. The platelet Peclet number at shear rates >100 s-1 is large enough (>200) to neglect platelet Brownian motion in computational modeling of flow in arteries and arterioles for most practical purposes even at very close distances from the surface. We also conducted adhesive dynamics simulations to determine the effects of platelet Brownian motion on GPIbalpha-vWF-A1 single-bond dissociation dynamics. Brownian motion was found to have little effect on bond lifetime and caused minimal bond stressing as bond rupture forces were calculated to be less than 0.005 pN. We conclude from our results that, for the case of platelet-shaped cells, Brownian motion is not expected to play an important role in influencing flow characteristics, platelet-surface contact frequency, and dissociative binding phenomena under flow at physiological shear rates (>50 s(-1)).
Role of home blood pressure monitoring in hemodialysis patients

To investigate the use of manual home blood pressure (BP) monitoring in chronic hemodialysis patients, daily home BPs in 20 patients undergoing chronic hemodialysis were compared with the 44-hour interdialytic ambulatory BPs (ABPs). Each patient recorded home BPs for 2 consecutive weeks with a digital BP monitor three times daily. Prehemodialysis and posthemodialysis BPs were recorded by an oscillometric device in the hemodialysis unit during the same 2 weeks. ABPs were recorded either after the first or second hemodialysis session of the second week during a 44-hour interdialytic period using a Spacelab 90207 ABP monitor. ABP monitoring showed that BP decreased progressively after dialysis, decreased during the first night, and rapidly reached predialysis levels by the next morning. There was no decrease in BP during the second night. There was an excellent correlation between average systolic and diastolic ABP and respective home BPs. Prehemodialysis diastolic BPs were a good reflection of diastolic ABP, but there was more variability in predialysis systolic BP. Posthemodialysis BPs did not correlate with ABP. In patients undergoing chronic hemodialysis, home BPs more reliably reflected the overall BP than incenter BP readings. Predialysis, but not postdialysis, BP should be used as a screening tool to detect hypertension in the hemodialysis unit. Home BP monitoring should be used as a cost-effective means to diagnose occult hypertension in chronic hemodialysis patients.
Relations of C-Reactive Protein and Obesity to the Prevalence and the Odds of Reporting Low Back Pain

Abstract Objective To assess the odds of reporting low back pain (LBP) as related to systemic inflammation and obesity. Design Cross-sectional analysis of the 1999 to 2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Setting National database analysis. Participants Population-based sample of 15,322 participants in the 1999 to 2004 NHANES databases. Interventions Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures Systemic inflammation was measured by C-reactive protein (CRP) and fibrinogen. Obesity was quantified by body mass index and waist circumference (WC). LBP was identified by self-report. Analysis included logistic regression to assess the odds of reporting LBP as related to systemic inflammation and obesity. Results It was hypothesized that obesity and systemic inflammation would increase the odds of reporting LBP. Participants with elevated CRP (>3.0mg/dL) had 1.74 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.04–2.91) greater odds of reporting LBP. Those who were obese (≥30kg/m 2 ) with elevated CRP had 2.87 (95% CI, 1.18–6.96) greater odds of reporting LBP than those without elevated CRP. When using WC as the measure of obesity, participants with high WC values had significantly greater odds of reporting LBP (odds ratio=2.39; 95% CI, 1.09–5.21). Conclusions To our knowledge, this is the first study showing that high levels of CRP may increase the odds of reporting LBP, especially in those who are obese. These findings warrant further investigation of the interrelations among obesity, systemic inflammation, and LBP.
Google’s pagerank

Approximately 94 million American adults use the internet on a typical day [24]. The number one internet activity is reading and writing email. Search engine use is next in line and continues to increase in popularity. In fact, survey findings indicate that nearly 60 million American adults use search engines on a given day. Even though there are many internet search engines, Google, Yahoo!, and MSN receive over 81% of all search requests [27]. Despite claims that the quality of search provided by Yahoo! and MSN now equals that of Google [11], Google continues to thrive as the search engine of choice receiving over 46% of all search requests, nearly double the volume of Yahoo! and over four times the volume of MSN.
Lincoln Steffens and the Mexican Revolution

'YOU'RE WORKING US for the Mexicans,'" an American financier accused Lincoln Steffens in 1916. " 'I am,' I said 'and I'm working the Mexicans for you. I'm working both ends against the middle, and my loyalty is to, -the revolution.' " Of the three revolutionary convulsions early in the century, this extraordinarily productive journalist-intellectual witnessed and identified himself with the Mexican and Russian Revolutions and only missed observing the upheaval in China. During the worst period of Mexican-American relations before the First World War, Steffens became pledged to a Mexican Revolution that seemed to be realizing its unique national and universal designs. Activities prompted by this identification involved him deeply in the political affairs of the two nations and in fateful issues between them. He thus earned a contemporary notoriety only eclipsed by his subsequent association with the revolution in Russia. This essay is an account of his brief, intense involvement in Mexico's revolution and in Mexican-American relations and an estimation of its consequences (1).
Coordination in food security crises: a stakeholder analysis of the challenges facing the global food security cluster

In mid 2011, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and World Food Programme (WFP) formally launched the global Food Security Cluster (FSC) as the UN’s global mechanism for coordinating food security responses in emergencies worldwide. The need for greater coordination of food security response in emergencies is enormous: Not only is the number of actors growing ever larger, the operating environment is more complex, and the range of responses requires substantially greater levels of skill than ever in analysis, planning, implementation, and monitoring and evaluation. Will this new mechanism provide the leadership needed for complex, multi-dimensional responses needed to protect food security and livelihoods in disasters? What are the special challenges the cluster faces? This paper analyzes a series of country level case studies and key informant interviews with stakeholders in a range of roles to address these questions.
Thermally-Assisted Spin-Transfer Torque Magnetization Reversal of Uniaxial Nanomagnets in Energy Space

We propose a new analytical method for studying the asymptotic behavior of switching time as a function of current in macrospins under the effects of both spin-torque and thermal noise by focusing on their diffusive energy space dynamics. We test our method on the well understood uniaxial macrospin model and confirm the switching scaling dependence (I → 0,(τ)∝ exp(-ξ(1-I)2)). The analysis also shows that when there is an angle between spin current and magnet's uniaxial axes the mean switching time in the low current limit depends on the spin-current projection on the easy axis, but otherwise has the same functional form as that in the collinear case. These results have implications for modeling the energetics of thermally assisted magnetization reversal of spin transfer magnetic random access memory bit cells.
Decreased Physical Function and Increased Pain Sensitivity in Mice Deficient for Type IX Collagen

Objective In mice with Col9a1 gene inactivation (Col9a1−/−), osteoarthritis (OA) and intervertebral disc degeneration develop prematurely. The aim of this study was to investigate Col9a1−/− mice for functional and symptomatic changes that may be associated with these pathologies. Methods Col9a1−/− and wild-type mice were investigated for reflexes, functional impairment (beam walking, pole climbing, wire hang, grip strength), sensorimotor skills (rotarod), mechanical sensitivity (von Frey hair), and thermal sensitivity (hot plate/tail flick). Gait was also analyzed to determine velocity, stride frequency, symmetry, percentage stance time, stride length, and step width. Postmortem, sera obtained from the mice were analyzed for hyaluronan, and their knees and spines were graded histologically for degeneration. Results Col9a1−/− mice had compensatory gait changes, increased mechanical sensitivity, and impaired physical ability. Col9a1−/− mice ambulated with gaits characterized by increased percentage stance times and shorter stride lengths. These mice also had heightened mechanical sensitivity and were deficient in contact righting, wire hang, rotarod, and pole climbing tasks. Male Col9a1−/− mice had the highest mean serum hyaluronan levels and strong histologic evidence of cartilage erosion. Intervertebral disc degeneration was also detected, with Col9a1−/− mice having an increased incidence of disc tears. Conclusion These data describe a Col9a1−/− behavioral phenotype characterized by altered gait, increased mechanical sensitivity, and impaired function. These gait and functional differences suggest that Col9a1−/− mice select locomotive behaviors that limit joint loads. The nature and magnitude of behavioral changes were largest in male mice, which also had the greatest evidence of knee degeneration. These findings suggest that Col9a1−/− mice present behavioral changes consistent with anatomic signs of OA and intervertebral disc degeneration.
Passive charge redistribution digital-to-analogue multiplier

A digital-to-analogue multiplier based on the principle of passive charge sharing and redistribution is proposed. The circuit generates a voltage proportional to the multiplier, then samples this voltage with a capacitance proportional to the multiplicand by discharging the capacitance associated with its logical inverse. Parasitic capacitances are shown to result in an input-referred offset with respect to the multiplier. The switching scheme is modified to null the offset. Simulation results are provided to verify the operation of the digital-to-analogue multiplier.
ERRONEOUS PROCESSING OF ARRAYS IN SAS VERSION 6, RELEASE 6.06.01

An error exists in the current version (SAS Version 6, Release 6.06.01) which does not process arrays correctly in some cases.
Thermal response to DVFS: analysis with an Intel Pentium M

Increasing power density in computing systems from laptops to servers has spurred interest in dynamic thermal management. Based on the success of dynamic voltage and frequency scaling (DVFS) in managing power and energy, DVFS may be a viable option for thermal management, as well. However, publicly available data on the thermal effects of DVFS are very limited. In this work, we characterize the thermal response of Intel Pentium M system to DVFS, identifying the response timescale and influence of factors beyond voltage and frequency on processor temperature.
Gating-related molecular motions in the extracellular domain of the IKs channel: implications for IKs channelopathy.

Cardiac slow delayed rectifier (IKs) channel complex consists of KCNQ1 channel and KCNE1 auxiliary subunits. The extracellular juxtamembranous region of KCNE1 is an unstructured loop that contacts multiple KCNQ1 positions in a gating-state-dependent manner. Congenital arrhythmia-related mutations have been identified in the extracellular S1–S2 linker of KCNQ1. These mutations manifest abnormal phenotypes only when coexpressed with KCNE1, pointing to the importance of proper KCNQ1/KCNE1 interactions here in IKs channel function. We investigate the interactions between the KCNE1 loop (positions 36–47) and KCNQ1 S1–S2 linker (positions 140–148) by means of disulfide trapping and voltage clamp techniques. During transitions among the resting-state conformations, KCNE1 positions 36–43 make contacts with KCNQ1 positions 144, 145, and 147 in a parallel fashion. During conformational changes in the activated state, KCNE1 position 40 can make contacts with all three KCNQ1 positions, while the neighboring KCNE1 positions (36, 38, 39, and 41) can make contact with KCNQ1 position 147. Furthermore, KCNQ1 positions 143 and 146 are high-impact positions that cannot tolerate cysteine substitution. To maintain the proper IKs channel function, position 143 requires a small side chain with a hydroxyl group, and position 146 requires a negatively charged side chain. These data and the proposed molecular motions provide insights into the mechanisms by which mutations in the extracellular juxtamembranous region of the IKs channel impair its function.
Do Debt Levels Influence State Borrowing Costs

This article reports on research into the possible interest cost penalties when state governments impose increasingly high debt levels on their citizens. The potential effect of debt levels on borrowing costs is a material one, given the large amounts of state debt outstanding. At the same time that government borrowing is heavy, the demand for government obligations also appears to be strong. The authors examine state debt levels and borrowing costs over a six-year period (2001–2006) and find little evidence of such an effect, despite rapidly growing debt burdens. Those concerned about state debt levels, the authors say, must look to sources other than investors for pressure to reduce debt issuance.
Multiple Forms of Tyrosine Hydroxylase in Human Neuroblastoma Cells: Quantitation with Isoform‐Specific Antibodies

Human tyrosine hydroxylase (HTH) RNA undergoes alternative splicing, and four different forms of HTH mRNA have been previously identified. Rabbit antibodies were raised against octapeptides unique to each of the four isoforms of HTH predicted from these mRNAs. Blot immunolabeling of human adrenal medulla, pheochromocytoma, and several neuroblastoma cell lines with affinity-purified anti-HTH peptide antibodies demonstrated the presence of all four HTH isoforms in each of these tissues. Quantitative immunolabeling assays for HTH-1, -2, and -4 were established, and HTH isoform levels were determined in several human neuroblastoma cell lines. Whereas total HTH levels differed up to fourfold among the HTH-positive neuroblastoma cell lines studied [LA-N-1, LA-N-5, CHP-234, BE(2)-C, and BE(2)-M17], the relative abundances of HTH isoforms in each of the cell lines were similar. Immunocytochemical analyses demonstrated that HTH immunoreactivity was distributed unequally among the cells in each of these neuroblastoma lines, and morphological interconversion did not account for this heterogeneity. A direct relationship between the percentage of HTH-positive cells and overall HTH levels was also observed. This relationship, in the absence of an apparent clonal basis for the heterogeneity, suggests that HTH expression in neuroblastoma cells may be controlled in a relatively "all-or-none" (bimodal) fashion.
Hexose monophosphate shunt measurement in cultured cells with [1-13C]glucose: correction for endogenous carbon sources using [6-13C] glucose.

Abstract Hexose monophosphate shunt (HMPS) activity can be measured with 1 H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy or gas chromatography-mass spectrometry by monitoring the differential production of [3- 13 C]lactate and [3- 12 C]lactate from the degradation of [1- 13 C]glucose. Errors in measurement of HMPS activity can arise from unlabeled lactate precursors, by recycling of HMPS products, and by incomplete fractional enrichment of labeled glucose. A method utilizing cultured cells incubated with [1- 13 C]glucose in parallel with incubations using [6- 13 C]glucose to correct for all these problems is presented. In cultured rat C6 glioma and 9L gliosarcoma cells, failure to apply this correction results in an approximately twofold overestimation of HMPS activity.
Gold nanoparticle–protein arrays improve resolution for cryo-electron microscopy

Cryo-electron microscopy single particle analysis shows limited resolution due to poor alignment precision of noisy images taken under low electron exposure. Certain advantages can be obtained by assembling proteins into two-dimensional (2D) arrays since protein particles are locked into repetitive orientation, thus improving alignment precision. We present a labeling method to prepare protein 2D arrays using gold nanoparticles (NPs) interconnecting genetic tag sites on proteins. As an example, mycobacterium tuberculosis 20S proteasomes tagged with 6x-histidine were assembled into 2D arrays using 3.9-nm Au NPs functionalized with nickel-nitrilotriacetic acid. The averaged top-view images from the array particles showed higher resolution (by 6-8A) compared to analysis of single particles. The correct 7-fold symmetry was also evident by using array particles whereas it was not clear by analysis of a comparable number of single particles. The applicability of this labeling method for three-dimensional reconstruction of biological macromolecules is discussed.
β,β'-iminodipropionitrile impairs retrograde axonal transport

beta,beta'-Iminodipropionitrile (IDPN), a neurotoxin, causes redistribution of neurofilaments in axons followed by the development of proximal axonal swellings and, in chronic intoxication, a distal decrease in axonal caliber. The latter changes are caused by a selective impairment in the slow anterograde axonal transport of neurofilament proteins. To assess the role of retrograde axonal transport in IDPN toxicity, we used [3H]N-succinimidyl propionate ([3H]NSP) to label covalently endogenous axonal proteins in sciatic nerve of the rat and measured the accumulation of radioactively labeled proteins in the cell bodies of motor and sensory neurons over time. IDPN was injected intraneurally 6 h or intraperitoneally 1 day before subepineurial injection of [3H]NSP into the sciatic nerve, and the animals were killed 1, 2, and 7 days after [3H]NSP injection. Neurotoxicity was assessed by electron microscopic observation of the nerves of similarly treated animals. Both intraneural and intraperitoneal injection of IDPN caused an acute reduction in the amount of labeled proteins transported back to the cell bodies. The early appearance of these changes suggests that alterations in retrograde transport may play a role in the production of the neuropathic changes.
Role of Interconnects in the Future of Computing

Unprecedented transistor integration capacity will exist to make computing truly ubiquitous, but the energy consumption will be a major challenge. Compute energy can be reduced by employing near threshold voltage operation, and advances in memory architecture will reduce memory energy. However, energy consumed in data movement over interconnects will become prohibitive. Severe tapering of interconnect bandwidth brings interconnect energy within limit, but potentially hinders the system performance. Hence, a holistic hardware/software codesigned system approach is required.
Lithium ion transport in Li2O-LiCl-CaO-B2O3 glasses

Abstract We examine the effect of CaO additions to Li 2 O·LiCl·B 2 O 3 glasses, since such additions are believed to improve durability in contact with lithium. CaO additions systematically decrease ionic conductivity in the boracite and metaborate glass systems, a result of a monotonically increasing activation energy for conduction, E A . Lithium chloride, which systematically increases conductivity, widens the tolerance to calcium doping. These results are briefly discussed in terms of a number of transport models applicable to glass systems.
Narcissism in organizational contexts

Abstract The literature on narcissism in organizational contexts is reviewed. We begin by describing the context of narcissism and several relevant theoretical approaches to understanding it. We next describe research on narcissism in a range of organizational topics, from leadership to meta-organizational issues. We conclude by highlighting several reoccurring themes involving the role of narcissism in organizational contexts, with an emphasis on articulating directions for future research.
Integral representations of finite transformation groups II: non-simply-connected spaces

Introduction Let r be a discrete group acting on a topological space X, or more generally on a pair of spaces (Y, X). The induced action on homology gives Ha(X; R) (respective- ly H,( Y, X; R)) an RT-module structure. Question. What type of restrictions does the topology of the underlying space im- pose on the r-module structure of these modules? We study this problem from the point of view of homological algebra in certain circumstances motivated by specific topological questions. More specifically, we show that RT-projectivity of H,( Y, X; R) and H*(X; R) is detected by restriction to ‘virtually cyclic’ subgroups of r. This result generalizes our earlier theorems in [5,6] for the case Irl< 00 to the effect that RT-projectivity of H*( Y, X; R) and H*(X; R) is detected by restriction to prime order subgroups of r. Let (YX) be a pair of connected ‘reasonable’ topological spaces (e.g. CW com- plexes etc.) with rri(X)~ ~cr( Y)g n, and let G be a finite group acting on (Y,X). Suppose
Metabolic engineering — methodologies and future prospects

Attempts to improve the productivity of cellular systems or to increase metabolite yield often require radical alteration of the flux through primary metabolic pathways. However, achieving the desired result often proves difficult because the control architectures at key branch points have evolved to resist flux changes. Identification and characterization of these metabolic nodes is a prerequisite to rational metabolic engineering.
Optical Pulse of a Periodic Radio Star

The pulsating radio star reported by Hewish et al. (1) has been studied in the blue region of the optical spectrum and found to have a pulse amplitude less than 10 percent of the photon count expected for 18th magnitude. No upper limit to a sinusoidal oscillation less than or equal to a complete modulation can be set.
Markov regression models for count time series with excess zeros: A partial likelihood approach

Abstract Count data with excess zeros are common in many biomedical and public health applications. The zero-inflated Poisson (ZIP) regression model has been widely used in practice to analyze such data. In this paper, we extend the classical ZIP regression framework to model count time series with excess zeros. A Markov regression model is presented and developed, and the partial likelihood is employed for statistical inference. Partial likelihood inference has been successfully applied in modeling time series where the conditional distribution of the response lies within the exponential family. Extending this approach to ZIP time series poses methodological and theoretical challenges, since the ZIP distribution is a mixture and therefore lies outside the exponential family. In the partial likelihood framework, we develop an EM algorithm to compute the maximum partial likelihood estimator (MPLE). We establish the asymptotic theory of the MPLE under mild regularity conditions and investigate its finite sample behavior in a simulation study. The performances of different partial-likelihood based model selection criteria are compared in the presence of model misspecification. Finally, we present an epidemiological application to illustrate the proposed methodology.
New-onset diabetes in an obese adolescent: diagnostic dilemmas.

Since a 'type 2 phenotype' has become increasingly common in patients with type 1 diabetes, the etiology of diabetes can no longer be established exclusively on the basis of phenotypic presentation. This Case Study illustrates the difficulty of diagnosis in an obese adolescent with new onset diabetes, and discusses management and follow-up strategies. Background A 14-year-old, obese, African American boy presented to his pediatrician with polyuria, polydipsia, and a significant unintentional weight loss. He was dehydrated, with high levels of blood sugar and urinary ketones. He had no history of previous illnesses and was not taking any medications. He had a family history of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Investigations Physical examination included assessing stigmata of insulin resistance, and measuring blood pressure, pulse, and BMI. Blood samples were obtained for measurement of venous blood pH, bicarbonate, serum glucose, electrolytes, HbA1C, aminotransferases and lipids. Urine was sampled for measurement of ketones. Subsequently, measurements of fasting C-peptide and immunoassays for insulin autoantibodies (IAA), islet-cell autoantibodies (ICA-512) and glutamic acid decarboxylase autoantibodies (GAD-65) were performed. Diagnosis New-onset diabetes mellitus with diabetic ketoacidosis, initially diagnosed as type 2 diabetes mellitus, but later determined as type 1 diabetes mellitus. Management After treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis with hydration and insulin infusion, the patient was discharged on subcutaneous insulin. He was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus and was transferred to oral insulin-sensitizing agents. He re-presented 18 months later with an insulin requirement during an asthma exacerbation treated with steroids. Due to the worsening of his diabetic symptoms, the patient was tested for islet autoantibodies and was found to be positive for GAD-65 and IAA, that is, diagnostic of type 1 diabetes mellitus. He has continued to require subcutaneous insulin.
A status report on the U.S. national dioxin study

Abstract In 1983, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) embarked on an extensive investigation of the presence and extent of contamination of the national environment by CDDs/CDFs. This status report is a prelude to a final report to be delivered to the US Congress in December, 1985.
Increased rate of catecholamine synthesis during respiratory acidosis.

Abstract During hypercapnic acidosis there is a significant rise in circulating plasma catecholamines which can be attributed to an increased release from peripheral nerve endings and adrenal gland. This increase was not accompanied in the rat by significant depletion of catecholamine stores. In a group of rats exposed to 20% CO2, 25%O2, balance N2 for periods of up to 5 hr, there were no significant changes in norepinephrine content of the heart, salivary glands and brain, and catecholamine content of the adrenal gland as compared to a control group breathing air. Another group of rats was given intraperitoneally 300 mg kg of α-methyl-L-tyrosine in three divided dosages before a similar period of hypercapnia. They presented a 37.7% decrease in heart norepinephrine content and a 34.3% decrease in adrenal catecholamine content. Rats treated with α-methyl-L-tyrosine and breathing room air did not present significant changes in catecholamine content of heart or adrenal gland. Forty hours following administration of dopa-H3, exposure to hypercapnia significantly decreased specific activity of catecholamines in the adrenal gland. Conversion of tyrosine-H3 to labeled catecholamines was also increased in rats during hypercapnia. These results indicate that an increased rate of catecholamine synthesis occurs during hypercapnia and enables the animal to sustain the elevated catecholamine release required to maintain vital physiological functions.
Combination external beam radiation and brachytherapy boost with androgen deprivation for treatment of intermediate-risk prostate cancer: long-term results of CALGB 99809

Background Combined transperineal prostate brachytherapy (TPPB) and external beam radiation (EBRT) is widely used for treatment of prostate cancer. Long-term efficacy and toxicity results of a multicenter Phase II trial assessing combination of EBRT and TPPB boost with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) for intermediate-risk prostate cancer are presented.
Resolving the Compartmentation and Function of C4 Photosynthesis in the Single-Cell C4 Species Bienertia sinuspersici

Bienertia sinuspersici is a land plant known to perform C(4) photosynthesis through the location of dimorphic chloroplasts in separate cytoplasmic domains within a single photosynthetic cell. A protocol was developed with isolated protoplasts to obtain peripheral chloroplasts (P-CP), a central compartment (CC), and chloroplasts from the CC (C-CP) to study the subcellular localization of photosynthetic functions. Analyses of these preparations established intracellular compartmentation of processes to support a NAD-malic enzyme (ME)-type C(4) cycle. Western-blot analyses indicated that the CC has Rubisco from the C(3) cycle, the C(4) decarboxylase NAD-ME, a mitochondrial isoform of aspartate aminotransferase, and photorespiratory markers, while the C-CP and P-CP have high levels of Rubisco and pyruvate, Pidikinase, respectively. Other enzymes for supporting a NAD-ME cycle via an aspartate-alanine shuttle, carbonic anhydrase, phosophoenolpyruvate carboxylase, alanine, and an isoform of aspartate aminotransferase are localized in the cytosol. Functional characterization by photosynthetic oxygen evolution revealed that only the C-CP have a fully operational C(3) cycle, while both chloroplast types have the capacity to photoreduce 3-phosphoglycerate. The P-CP were enriched in a putative pyruvate transporter and showed light-dependent conversion of pyruvate to phosphoenolpyruvate. There is a larger investment in chloroplasts in the central domain than in the peripheral domain (6-fold more chloroplasts and 4-fold more chlorophyll). The implications of this uneven distribution for the energetics of the C(4) and C(3) cycles are discussed. The results indicate that peripheral and central compartment chloroplasts in the single-cell C(4) species B. sinuspersici function analogous to mesophyll and bundle sheath chloroplasts of Kranz-type C(4) species.
Computational modeling of the dynamics and interference effects of an erosive granular jet impacting a porous, compliant surface

The general problem of a loosely flowing erosive granular jet undergoing impact with a compliant surface is common in many manufacturing processes, and also in the operating environment of a variety of machine parts. This paper presents a three-dimensional, collision-driven discrete particle simulation framework for investigating the dynamics of a jet of erosive particles impacting a surface with a specified porosity and compliance. The framework is capable of handling repeated collisions between incoming particles and rebounding particles, and between particles and surfaces. It is also capable of performing a coupled simultaneous calculation of sub-surface stresses in the material, assuming a certain porosity. Well illustrated numerical examples are presented with detailed analysis for investigations on the mechanics and energetics of the interfering collisions in eroding jets close to the target surface, on the effect of such interference on the material erosion, and on the evolving stress levels and potential damage zones under the action of impact. Particularly, the assumption of considering first-order collisions between oncoming and rebounding jet particles is re-examined. The influence of repeated collisions on energy transferred to the surface was found to be significant under conditions which involves high particle numbers or fluxes, and also high degrees of inelasticity. The overall trends for parametric variations were found to be in accordance with reported trends in the literature.
Rick factors for seroprevalence of ovine lentivirus in breeding ewe flocks in Nebraska, USA

The prevalence of and risk factors for ovine lentivirus (OLV) infection in 1466 breeding ewes in nine US Meat Animal Research Center (MARC) flocks were determined using a recombinant transmembrane protein (PTM) enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to detect serum anti-OLV antibodies and define infection. Based on multivariable logistic regression, confinement birth and rearing (odds ratio (OR) = 1.6), older weaning ages (OR = 1.1 week-1), and older age (OR = 1.3-2.5 year-1 beyond age 1 year) were significantly associated with higher OLV prevalence in ewes. Prevalence also varied significantly by flock, with Finnsheep and Texel ewes having the highest prevalences and Booroola Merino and Suffolk ewes having the lowest prevalences. These findings support the hypothesis that management control efforts should concentrate on events early in the life of sheep, as this period is associated with factors which can modulate the risk for OLV infection.
An atypical deoxynucleoside triphosphate inBacillus subtilis infected with bacteriophage SP10c

In mature DNA ofBacillus subtilis phage SP10c, deoxythymidine monophosphate is partially replaced by a hypermodified nucleotide. During the interval of phage replication, infected cells contained greatly reduced levels of deoxythymidine triphosphate. However, an atypical mononucleotide, tentatively identified as 5-hydroxymethyldeoxyuridine triphosphate, was present during the interval of SP10c DNA synthesis. It is proposed that the atypical mononucleotide, and not deoxythymidine triphosphate, is a substrate for SP10c DNA replication.
Speech, Language, and Reading Skills After Early Cochlear Implantation

Objective To examine whether age at cochlear implantation or duration of implant use is associated with speech, language, and reading skills exhibited at age 8 to 9 years in children who underwent implantation by age 5 years. Design Performance outcomes in speech perception, speech production, language, and reading were examined in terms of the age at which children first received a cochlear implant (2, 3, or 4 years), the age they received an updated (Spectra) processor, and the duration of use of an implant and an updated processor. Setting Data collection was conducted at summer research camps held over 4 consecutive years to maximize the number of children available at a specific age (8-9 years). Children were tested individually by experienced examiners, and their parents and therapists provided background and educational history information. Participants A total of 181 children from 33 different states and 5 Canadian provinces who received a cochlear implant by age 5 years were tested. A subsample of 133 children with performance IQ scores of 80 or greater and onset of deafness at birth were selected for the age-at-implantation analysis. Another subsample of 39 children with deafness acquired by age 3 years was also examined. Outcome Measures A battery of tests of speech perception, speech production, language, and reading was administered to each child and reduced to a single factor score for each skill. Results Correlation coefficients between age at implantation and duration of use did not reach significance for any of the outcome skills measured. Age at which the updated speech processor (Spectra) was fitted was significantly related to speech production outcome (earlier use of an updated processor was associated with greater speech intelligibility) but not to any other skill area. However, more of the children who underwent implantation at age 2 years (43%) achieved combined speech and language skills commensurate with their age-matched peers with normal hearing than did children who underwent implantation at age 4 years (16%). Furthermore, normal speech and language skills were documented in 80% of children who lost hearing after birth and who underwent implantation within a year of onset of deafness. Conclusions For children who receive a cochlear implant between the ages of 2 and 4 years, early cochlear implantation does not ensure better speech perception, speech production, language, or reading skills. However, greater speech and language proficiency may be expected from children who exhibit normal hearing for even a brief period after birth and receive a cochlear implant shortly after losing their hearing. Further research examining the benefits of cochlear implantation before age 2 years will help families and clinicians better understand the time-sensitive nature of the decision to conduct cochlear implant surgery.
Mechanisms of beta sympathomimetic actionon neonatal glucose homeostasis in the lamb

Beta sympathomimetic drugs are used clinically to inhibit premature labor. Significant alterations in glucose homeostasis have been documented in both mother and offspring. To determine the mechanism(s) of beta sympathomimetic drugs on neonatal glucose homeostasis, ritodrine hydrochloride was infused in a newborn term lamb model of glucose kinetics by a crossover design. There was a progressive rise in plasma glucose concentration and plasma insulin concentration during ritodrine hydrochloride infusion compared with the control (saline) infusion. The rise in plasma glucose concentration was associated with a progressive rise in Ra (rate of appearance, production) and Rd (rate of disappearance, utilization). The ritodrine hydrochloride-infused animals had a progressive rise in [insulin/glucose] compared with our prior studies in the newborn lamb, suggesting direct stimulation of pancreatic beta cell secretion. In the neonatal lamb, beta sympathomimetic drugs directly stimulate both hepatic glucose production and pancreatic beta cell secretion. These effects explain, in part, why infants of mothers infused with ritodrine hydrochloride may evidence alterations in neonatal glucose homeostasis.
Ethnic comparison of weight loss in the Trial of Nonpharmacologic Interventions in the Elderly.

Objective: To compare weight loss in blacks and whites in the Trial of Nonpharmacologic Interventions in the Elderly (TONE). Research Methods and Procedures: TONE enrolled 421 overweight white and 164 overweight black adults, 60 to 79 years old, with blood pressure well-controlled on a single, antihypertensive drug. Drug therapy withdrawal was attempted 3 months after randomization to counseling for weight loss, sodium reduction, both weight loss and sodium reduction, or to usual care, with follow-up for 15 to 36 months after enrollment. Statistical procedures included repeated measures analysis of covariance and logistic and proportional hazards regression. Results: In the weight-loss condition, net weight change (in kilograms) was −2.7 in blacks and −5.9 in whites (p 0.5). Exploratory analyses suggested a more favorable pattern of weight change in blacks than in whites from 6 months onward. There was no ethnic difference in blood pressure outcomes. Discussion: Whites lost more weight than blacks without, but not with, a concurrent focus on sodium reduction.
The current state of macroeconomics: A view from the textbooks

Current macroeconomic research reflects substantial controversy concerning the choice of both paradigm and technique. The advent of the rational expectations hypothesis accompanied by the Lucas critique has led to a restructuring of macroeconomic models in a search for a consistent explanation of aggregate fluctuations. The current approach is to establish ‘microfoundations’ based on optimizin g behavior by individual agents. It has become commonplace to openly criticize the IS/LM framework as a poorly specified model that lacks serious scientific content. In addition, the Keynesian notion of fixed nominal wages meets with disapproval from the new Classical economists. Nevertheless, with few exceptions,’ analysis of demand-side equilibrium in intermediate textbook treatments remains dominated by the use of the IS/LM model. Moreover, many of the surrent texts retain the assumption of some degree of wage rigidity to rationalize the existence of non-neutralities in the system. The purpose of this review is to examine the current state of macroeconomic theory in the context of the material that the profession views as appropriate for undergraduate students at the intermediate level. To identify this material, I focus primarily on the coverage in three texts: Dombusch and Fischer (1984), hereafter referred to as D&F, Gordon (1984) and Parkin (1984). Virtually all authors of intermediate texts have undertaken the natural process of modifying the analysis to reflect recent developments in the research literature. One widely adopted change has been to expand the discussion of labor market behavior and aggregate supply. Analysis of the implications of rational expectations, labor market contracts, supply-side shifts and the effectiveness of policy has been either added or expanded. The discussion of growth theory, which had diminished somewhat during the 1970’s, has become