cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Ground Slate Transition on the Northwest Coast: Establishing a Chronological Framework

i Acknowledgements iii List of Figures vi List of Tables vii Chapter 1: Introduction 1 1.1 What Are Ground Slate Points? 4 1.2 Why Ground Slate? 5 1.3 Research Questions 9 Chapter 2: Methods 10 2.1 Site Selection 10 2.2 The Database 12 2.3 Radiocarbon Calibration and Hygiene 17 2.3.1 Calibrating Radiocarbon Dates 17 2.3.2 Radiocarbon Hygiene 19 2.4 Controlling for Inter-Site Variability 22 2.5 Methods of Analysis 25 2.5.1 Inter-Site Comparability Analyses 25 2.5.2 Database Analyses 25 3.1 C Hygiene Program Results 28 3.2 Radiocarbon Calibration Results 31 3.3 Excavated Volume Figures and Estimates 36 3.4 Regression Analysis Results 38 3.5 Database Analysis Results 40 3.6 A Comparison of the Earliest Ground Slate Point Dates and Geography .....43 Chapter 4: Discussion 47 4.1 From Chipped to Ground? 47 4.2 The Appearance of Ground Slate on the Northwest Coast 50 4.3 Is Absence of Evidence Really Evidence of Absence? 52 4.4 Discussion of Individual Sites: 53 4.4.1 The Northern Study Area: Kodiak Island to Haida Gwaii 53 4.4.2 The Southern Study Area: Vancouver Island, the Salish Sea, and the Fraser River 62 4.5 Was the Fraser Really First? 75 v 5.1 Trends 78 5.2 On Radiocarbon 81 5.3 Implications, Speculations, and Future Directions 83 References Cited 86 Appendix A: Artifact Counts by Site 92
Heat Maps: An Aid for Data Analysis and Understanding of ROC CAD Experiments

Rationale and Objectives To demonstrate the value of a new data visualization and exploration method for mutlireader-multicase receiver operating characteristic (MRMC-ROC) experiments of computer-aided detection (CAD) algorithms that uses three-dimensional (3D) heat maps tool adapted from gene expression array analysis. Materials and Methods We are using data from a clinical trial of a commercial CAD system for lung cancer detection (RapidScreen RS-2000, Riverain Medical Group, Miamisburg, OH, and Rockville, MD). 3D heat maps, originally developed for displaying changes in gene expression after cancer chemotherapy in MATLAB, were modified to display the radiologists confidence levels as they interpreted chest radiographs and used to visualize the radiologists confidence levels before and after the provision of a CAD system. Results Heat maps demonstrated the variation among radiologists in their interpretation, and the degree of variation in interpretation when a single radiologist reinterpreted the same case without and with CAD modality. They demonstrated the variability in the identification of each cancer/cancer-free case and the variability of change seen when CAD prompts were provided. Conclusions CAD increases the consistency of interpretation of a single radiologist and of a group of radiologists. Heat maps provide a method for data visualization that clarifies the effects of reader variability in ROC CAD experiments. We demonstrated how heat maps can be used to document the complexity of reader variability and suggested how clustering can reveal both nonintuitive and intuitive groupings of cases, readers, and the interaction of both with CAD.
Eigenvalue Assignment for Positive Discrete-Time Linear Systems

This paper considers the problem of eigenvalue assignment for discrete-time positive systems by state feedback control law. The goal of the paper is to solve the stabilization problem of discrete-time positive systems under the constraint that the eigenvalues of the closed-loop system are placed in the desired location while maintaining the positivity structure. Although the problem of positive stabilization has been solved using LP and LMI methods, the problem of eigenvalue assignment with positivity constraints is complex and remains challenging. It has only been tackled for a restricted class of single-input discrete-time positive systems. This paper aims to provide a solution for the multi-input case. After a brief review of positive systems and their stability properties, spectral characteristics of stable positive discrete-time systems is analyzed and the eigenvalue assignment is achieved by solving a set of chain equations. Numerical examples are provided to support theoretical development.
Comparing Specific Excess Power of Five General Aviation Aircraft

Florida Institute of Technology partnered with the FAA Small Aircraft Directorate to conduct flight tests characterizing the specific excess power of five general aviation aircraft. The objective of this flight campaign was to compare and contrast performance characteristics among representative single-engine general aviation aircraft. The data produced in the campaign contributes to an effort to create a regulatory environment that uses advances in technology to enhance general aviation safety, while reducing the effort, time and cost associated with the certification of new equipment. Loss of control continues to plague general aviation. Predictive displays and warning systems informing pilots about the aircraft's current energy state, the amount of excess power available, and the control inputs needed to transition to a “healthy” energy state have the potential to reduce the chance for loss of control. This paper contributes data on the amount of excess power available. Examining the data for five aircraft will offer developers of prediction algorithms and warning systems common features to consider for their code logic. Lessons learned in the execution of this flight test program, as well as suggestions for future research, are provided.
Noise and Vibration Risk Assessment for the Operators of Crawler Loaders

During work, earth-moving machines generate significant levels of noise and vibration that can be harmful for the operators; therefore the analysis of the noise and vibration conditions at the driving position is of great importance for the risk assessment. Compact loaders have become a pressing challenge as they are extremely hazardous referring to noise and vibration emissions, especially in their crawler version where further relevant noise and vibration are generated by the hard contact between track belt and ground. This paper reports the results of investigations carried out on three crawler compact loaders in different operating conditions. The main purpose was to investigate the noise and vibration values transmitted to the operators in some working conditions and use these data to obtain reliable estimates of the exposure to noise, to whole-body and to hand-arm transmitted vibrations, as well as to evaluate the related risk levels. Vibration signals transmitted to the operator were acquired on the seat and the machine control lever in accordance with the procedures specified in ISO 2631-1 and ISO 5349-1. At the same time, noise signals were acquired at the operator’s ear following the procedure reported in ISO 11201. Vibration signals were also acquired on the cabin floor with the main purpose to evaluate the effectiveness of the machine seats in reducing the vibration transmission. Finally, the noise and vibration exposure risks were evaluated on the basis of the health and safety requirements established in 2003/10/EC and 2002/44/EC Directives.
View management for lifelong visual maps

The time complexity of making observations and loop closures in a graph-based visual SLAM system is a function of the number of views stored [1], [2]. Clever algorithms, such as approximate nearest neighbor search, can make this function sub-linear. Despite this, over time the number of views can still grow to a point at which the speed and/or accuracy of the system becomes unacceptable, especially in computation- and memory-constrained SLAM systems. However, not all views are created equal. Some views are rarely observed, because they have been created in an unusual lighting condition, or from low quality images, or in a location whose appearance has changed. These views can be removed to improve the overall performance of a SLAM system. In this paper, we propose a method for pruning views in a visual SLAM system to maintain its speed and accuracy for long term use.
PATIENT WITH UNILATERAL CHOROIDAL AND SEROUS RETINAL DETACHMENT WITH A HISTORY OF TREATED PROSTATE CANCER AND UNTREATED SARCOIDOSIS.

Background/purpose To report a case of unilateral choroidal detachment and serous retinal detachment in a patient with a history of untreated sarcoidosis. Methods Case report. The patient is a 67-year-old African American man with a history of nontreated sarcoidosis and prostate cancer. His prostate cancer was treated several years earlier with external beam radiation therapy. The patient presented with blurred visual acuity of 20/30 and floaters in the right eye. He was discovered to have several hypopigmented choroidal lesions, 360-degree choroidal detachment, and shallow serous retinal detachment in the right eye. Results The patient was treated with subtenons kenalog and oral prednisone with subsequent improvement of vision and resolution of choroidal and retinal detachment. Conclusion Ocular sarcoidosis can involve any part of the eye and its adnexal tissues and may cause uveitis, episcleritis, scleritis, eyelid abnormalities, conjunctival granuloma, optic neuropathy, lacrimal gland enlargement, and orbital inflammation. Most patients with ophthalmic sarcoidosis have evidence of systemic involvement at the time of the initial examination and have bilateral ocular presentation. We present here the unique case of a 67-year-old man with unilateral 360-degree choroidal detachment and serous retinal detachment as an ocular presentation of sarcoidosis.
A Tale of two headaches – Use of Dynamic CT Myelogram to Localize Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak (P5.10-010)

Objective: n/a Background: Spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) typically presents with a severe orthostatic headache, with an incidence of 5 per 100,000 people. It is more commonly seen in females, in the 4th or 5th decade, but may present at any age. Treatment includes IV fluids, bed rest and caffeine. Failing those measures, an epidural blood patch (EBP) can be attempted. Dynamic CT Myelography can demonstrate extravasation of contrast allowing accurate localization of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage, permitting the targeted placement of an EBP, potentially increasing its success and avoiding the need for surgical dural repair. Design/Methods: We report two cases of SIH, diagnostic techniques used to localize the CSF leak, and treatment outcomes. Each patient underwent detailed history and physical exam. MRI confirmed SIH and CSF leak. Conservative treatment was attempted and failed in both patients. Patient 1 was a 36-year-old female with marked horizontal end gaze nystagmus had an extensive CSF leak with no identified source on cine MRI. Dynamic CT myelography showed ventral contrast leak at T3–T4, and a large volume EBP was performed at that location. Patient 2 was a 44-year-old male with abducens nerve palsy. MRI suggested a leak at T5 however EBP at T5 failed to relieve symptoms. Dynamic myelography suggested a leak at C3–C4, and EBP was performed at C7–T1 to avoid procedural risks higher in the cervical spine. Results: Patient 1 experienced tinnitus and dizziness post myelography that resolved spontaneously. She experienced lasting relief of symptoms from the EBP. Patient 2 had two weeks of relief, but headache returned, so he underwent repeat EBP at C7–T1 with no recurrence. Conclusions: Strongly positional headaches should prompt suspicion for SIH. Dynamic CT myelography is an underutilized technique to localize CSF leaks. We describe two cases where it was safely employed to target large volume EBP in patient with SIH. Disclosure: Dr. Schachter has nothing to disclose. Dr. Mehndiratta has nothing to disclose.
Taxes Around the World: A Brief History of World Tax Policy, 1981-2007

In this paper, we provide a brief overview of U.S. tax policy in relation to other OECD countries and also in some cases, in relation to world averages. The U.S. tax code emerges in our analysis is exceptional in many regards. Most countries have gradually moved toward collecting a large share of their revenue from value added taxes. This movement has generally allowed countries to reduce income tax rates relative to the U.S. The U.S. tax code also redistributes income significantly more than most of its trading partners.
Chapter 8 – CONTINUOUS TIME MARKOV CHAINS

The purpose of this chapter is to introduce the reader to some of the more advanced topics and concepts which arise in the study of the theory of continuous parameter Markov chains. As before we shall consider only the case of stationary transition probabihties.
QIC: A Pilot Quality Improvement Curriculum Utilizing Interactive, Team-based Workshops.

Abstract Background Incorporation of quality improvement (QI) training is essential to meet the milestones set forth by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education. However, there is no standardized curriculum. Objective We aimed to create a QI curriculum through the integration of didactics and team-based learning via the completion of resident-led QI projects. Methods An institutional review board–approved QI curriculum consisting of four interactive workshops was developed. The workshops introduced the various components of QI, with a focus on Plan-Do-Study-Act. Anonymous and voluntary precurriculum and postcurriculum surveys were administered during the study period in 2018. Results Fifty surgical residents participated in the curriculum, and four QI projects were completed, with 23 residents completing both precurriculum and postcurriculum surveys. Following the curriculum, residents were more confident in their ability to design a QI project (5.7 ± 2.6 versus 7.1 ± 1.9, P = 0.02), write a problem statement (6.7 ± 2.5 versus 7.8 ± 1.1, P = 0.04), and write an aim statement (6.7 ± 2.6 versus 7.8 ± 1.2, P = 0.04). Residents also improved in perceived ability to lead a QI project (5.6 ± 2.9 versus 6.9 ± 1.9, P = 0.05), knowing the steps to complete a QI project (6.0 ± 2.8 versus 7.4 ± 1.7, P = 0.04), and familiarity with QI terminology (5.6 ± 2.6 versus 7.0 ± 1.9, P = 0.03). Conclusions We found that the curriculum was a success and was well received. In addition, there was an improvement in perceived competency and confidence surrounding some of the steps necessary to complete a QI endeavor.
Farmers’ perception of the state of infrastructure on agricultural production in Delta state, Nigeria

This article identifies farmers' perceptions of infrastructure availability and condition in rural communities in Nigeria. Multistage sampling procedures were used to survey a sample of 412 respond...
Streaming & Screaming: Intellectual Property Rights’ Survival in a 21st Century Music Industry

It’s difficult to understand how in 2018, artists took home only about 11.6% of the total industry revenue; the same industry that could not exist without them. This article explores the current state of the music industry and where it will go. It also aims to shed light on the issues plaguing musicians in the 21st century music industry, and how to help those being taken advantage of. Part I of this paper will explore the history of music distribution, to understand how the industry has changed over the years. This includes the transition from physical to digital medium distribution, and the leading figures throughout the music industry. Part II will look at copyright law’s effect on revenues and innovation from the perspective of different actors in the industry: Record Labels, Streaming Companies, and Producers. It will examine recent industry data to show how much and where the revenue is going, as well as who it is going to. Part III offers possible remedies and suggestions to the thriving, yet unfair and inequitable industry. These include producer-centered actions such as a public rights awareness campaign, lobbying, and more.
Measuring Dynamical Interdependence in Small-Group Collaborations

This paper addresses dynamical interdependence among the actions of group members. I assume that the actions of each member can be represented as nodes of a dynamical network and then collect the nodes into disjoint subsets (components) representing the individual group members. Interdependence among group members’ actions can then be defined with reference to a K-partite network, in which the partitions correspond to the group member components. Independence among group members’ actions can be defined with reference to a network in which the group member components are disconnected from one another. The degree to which the interactions of actual groups correspond to either of these theoretical network structures can be characterized using modified versions of existing network statistics. Taking this approach, I propose a number of network-based measures of dynamical interdependence, discuss the interpretation of the proposed measures, and consider how to assess their reliability and validity. These ideas are illustrated using an example in which dyads collaborated via online chat to complete a grade 12 level mathematics assessment.
Cutaneous Blastomycosis Mimicking Breast Malignancy.

Blastomycosis is a fungal infection caused by Blastomyces dermatitidis. While blastomycosis can cause systemic infection affecting multiple organs, localized blastomycosis of the breast is uncommon. Here, we report the case of a 50-year-old female with a localized left breast growth which started as a nodule and later ulcerated extensively. Although her clinical picture raised concerns for breast malignancy, workup revealed cutaneous blastomycosis with superimposed methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella oxytoca infection. Interestingly, there was no evidence of pulmonary disease on CT chest imaging. She was treated with Amphotericin B for seven days and discharged on oral Itraconazole for nine months. Additionally, she received amoxicillin-clavulanate for her bacterial superinfection. On the six-month follow-up, the patient showed significant improvement. Blastomycosis can mimic several diseases including malignancy, pyoderma gangrenosum, and mycobacterial and bacterial infections leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment.
Single carbon fiber transverse electrical resistivity measurement via the van der Pauw method

Although the electrical properties of carbon fibers and carbon fiber composites are critical to the design of composite materials, a direct measurement of the transverse electrical resistivity of a single carbon fiber has not yet been reported. Significant challenges arise in fabricating specimens and making electrical resistance measurements due to the geometry and small diameter of a single carbon fiber (about 4–7 μm). In this study, we report a specimen design and fabrication technique for measuring the transverse electrical resistance of an individual carbon fiber by the van der Pauw method. IM7 carbon fiber specimens are fabricated by a combination of photolithography and the focused ion beam. Specimen thickness, which is required for resistivity calculations, is measured by atomic force microscopy. We measure mean transverse electrical resistivity of (9.3 ± 0.3) × 10−5 Ω m, which is roughly six times greater than the reported longitudinal values. Our measurement technique can be applied to a range of conductive fibers. More accurate measurements of the electrical conduction in carbon fibers are critical for applications such as electromagnetic interference shielding, structural health monitoring, and lightning strike protection.
Review of: Forensic Entomology: The Utility of Arthropods in Legal Investigations

Insects and related arthropods are the most abundant organisms on the planet Earth and found in almost all conceivable habitats, including those associated with human inhabitation. These animals are intimately involved as major players in sustaining ecological functions and ecosystem processes. Accordingly, these arthropods are often found associated with human activities, including homicide, as we encounter them in our daily lives. Forensic entomology is the application of entomological evidence to resolving litigation (civil cases) and solving crimes, most often those of violence and death (medicocriminal cases). This book, Forensic Entomology: The Utility of Arthropods in Legal Investigations, focuses on the criminological application of entomology and provides a smorgasbord of medicocriminal entomology and associated practices prepared by leading practicing scientists in this and related disciplines. This is the first comprehensive treatise of medicolegal entomology to bring together archival and new information for forensic practitioners since publication of Smith's A Manual of Forensic Entomology (1986).
Apolipoprotein Mimetic Peptides for Stimulating Cholesterol Efflux

Apolipoprotein mimetic peptides are short synthetic peptides that have many of the same biological properties of ApoA-I, the main protein component of high-density lipoproteins (HDL). They have been shown to have beneficial effects in a wide variety of animal disease models, including atherosclerosis. One of the better understood properties of apolipoprotein mimetic peptides is their ability to promote the efflux of excess cellular cholesterol by the ABCA1 transporter and by other mechanisms. In this chapter, we will compare and contrast six different apolipoprotein mimetic peptides that are being investigated as possible therapeutic agents, particularly in regard to those features that are important in the cholesterol efflux process and in the overall reverse cholesterol transport pathway.
Metabolic utilization of pyridoxine-β-glucoside in rats : influence of vitamin B-6 status and route of administration

(3H)5'-O-(beta-D-glucopyranosyl) pyridoxine (PN-glucoside) and (14C)pyridoxine (PN) were administered orally or intraperitoneally to vitamin B-6-adequate or -deficient rats. Analysis of intestinal contents and feces indicated effective intestinal absorption of PN-glucoside relative to PN. There was greater retention of 14C than 3H in the liver and carcass regardless of the route of administration of the radiolabeled vitamins. There was no major difference in the relative distribution of 3H and 14C among the vitamin B-6 metabolites in the liver between the treatment groups, and no (3H)PN-glucoside was detected in any of the livers. For all groups, the majority of the 3H administered was detected in the urine within 24 h. Less excretion of both 3H and 14C in the urine was observed for the deficient rats. There was no major difference in the relative proportion of urinary (3H)PN-glucoside or (3H)4-PA between rats fed or injected with the radiolabeled vitamins. These results indicate that vitamin B-6 status influences the clearance of metabolites derived from PN and PN-glucoside, as well as the clearance of intact PN-glucoside. Vitamin B-6 status, however, has little or no effect on the utilization of PN-glucoside. This study also suggests that the intestine is the primary site of the limited conversionmore » of PN-glucoside to biologically active PN in the rat.« less
Examining mental health symptoms in male and female incarcerated juveniles.

Varying risk factors for both incarceration and mental health diagnoses have been identified for female juveniles, highlighting the need for gender-specific assessments and treatment protocols. The purpose of this study is to determine how the prevalence rates of mental health symptoms differ in male and female juvenile offenders. It was hypothesized that the prevalence rates would be greater for females than males. This study found significant differences between males and females on several clinical scales. These findings are consistent with past studies that have identified differences in mental health symptoms between genders. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. KEYWORDS: Juvenile justice; Juvenile delinquency;
The use of gamma globulin in the treatment of measles encephalitis.

A clinical review of 25 recent cases of measles encephalitis demonstrates the continued importance of measles in the field of contagious diseases. A comparison of a group of patients with measles encephalitis treated with supportive therapy only, with a group treated with massive doses of gamma globulin, is presented. The over-all results of this study do not demonstrate any effect on the rate of sequelae or of complete recovery rate in those patients receiving massive doses of gamma globulin. While a possible decrease of mortality was demonstrated in those patients treated with gamma globulin, statistical analysis does not support this conclusion. This information is compared to that from a similar study by Odessky et al. It is concluded that gamma globulin in massive doses is not indicated in the treatment of measles encephalitis. The extreme importance of modifying all cases of measles in all age groups whenever possible is emphasized as a most potent tool for the prevention of measles encephalitis, as well as other post-measles complications.
An Improved Active Shape Model: Handling Occlusion and Outliers

An improvement of the Active Shape procedure identifying new examples of previously learned shapes using the point distribution model is presented. The novel segmentation and interpretation approach incorporates a priori knowledge about the objects of interest and their specific structural relationships to provide robust segmentation and labeling.
Formulation of a Practical Algorithm for Parameter Estimation with Process and Measurement Noise

A new formulation is proposed for the problem of parameter estimation in dynamic systems with both process and measurement noise. The formulation applies to continuous-time state space system models with discrete-time measurements. Previous formulations of this problem encountered several theoretical and practical difficulties which are overcome by the new formulation. The most important element of the new formulation is a reparameterization of the unknown noise covariances. A computer program that implements the new formulation is available.
Prevention and Management of Common Musculoskeletal Injuries in the Aging Female Athlete

The onset of menopause causes numerous changes in the female athlete’s body. The alteration in hormones, particularly a decrease in estrogen, affects both bone quality AND quantity. This mature life stage herald by the occurrence of menopause is associated with a 3 % increase in bone loss per year. Thus one of the greatest threats to the aging female athlete is decreased bone density with the eventual development of osteoporosis. The reduction in estrogen levels also causes a decline of muscular strength in women. However, with the proper physical training regime, particularly weight bearing plus resistance exercises, bone mass and muscular degeneration can be combated. Aging also exposes the female athlete to certain injuries along with increasing the time to recovery once injured. Prevention of musculoskeletal trauma is the best method to ensure that the aging female athlete will maintain an active lifestyle. Appropriate conditioning programs incorporating strength, flexibility, and mobility, as well as proper nutrition, are crucial in keeping the older female population healthy and active to enhance their life in later years.
Swim therapy reduces mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia induced by chronic constriction nerve injury in rats.

Objective. Neuropathic pain is common and often difficult to treat because it generally does not respond well to the currently available pain medications or nerve blocks. Recent studies in both humans and animals have suggested that exercise may induce a transient analgesia and reduce acute pain in normal healthy individuals. We examined whether swim therapy could alleviate neuropathic pain in rats. Design. Rats were trained to swim over a 2-week period in warm water. After the rats were trained, neuropathic pain was induced by constricting the right sciatic nerve, and regular swimming was resumed. The sensitivity of each hind paw was monitored using the Hargreaves test and von Frey test to evaluate the withdrawal response thresholds to heat and touch. Results. The paw ipsilateral to the nerve ligation expressed pain-like behaviors including thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia. Regular swim therapy sessions significantly reduced the mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia. Swim therapy had little effect on the withdrawal thresholds for the contralateral paw. In addition, swim therapy alone did not alter the thermal or mechanical thresholds of normal rats. Conclusions. The results suggest that regular exercise, including swim therapy, may be an effective treatment for neuropathic pain caused by nerve injuries. This study, showing that swim therapy reduces neuropathic pain behavior in rats, provides a scientific rationale for clinicians to test the efficacy of exercise in the management of neuropathic pain. It may prove to be a safe and cost-effective therapy in a variety of neuropathic pain states.
Development of carbon free diffusion layer for activated carbon air cathode of microbial fuel cells

The fabrication of activated carbon air cathodes for larger-scale microbial fuel cells requires a diffusion layer (DL) that is highly resistant to water leakage, oxygen permeable, and made using inexpensive materials. A hydrophobic polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membrane synthesized using a simple phase inversion process was examined as a low cost ($0.9/m(2)), carbon-free DL that prevented water leakage at high pressure heads compared to a polytetrafluoroethylene/carbon black DL ($11/m(2)). The power density produced with a PVDF (20%, w/v) DL membrane of 1400±7mW/m(2) was similar to that obtained using a wipe DL [cloth coated with poly(dimethylsiloxane)]. Water head tolerance reached 1.9m (∼19kPa) with no mesh supporter, and 2.1m (∼21kPa, maximum testing pressure) with a mesh supporter, compared to 0.2±0.05m for the wipe DL. The elimination of carbon black from the DL greatly simplified the fabrication procedure and further reduced overall cathode costs.
557 DECREASED BONE MINERAL CONTENT (BMC) IN BREAST-FED INFANTS WITHOUT SUPPLEMENTAL VITAMIN D (D): “CATCH UP” MINERALIZATION AT 6 MONTHS AND ONE YEAR; POSSIBLE.EFFECTS ON LENGTH

We previously reported a double blind randomized prospective study of 9 exclusively breast-fed infants without supplemental D (placebo, plac) and 9 exclusively breast-fed infants on supplement of 400 IU D/d (suppl.); 12 infants were fed exclusively Similac 20 cal/oz (form). As reported, at 3 mos plac had significantly lower BMC (modified photon absorptiometry) and serum 25-OH D. By 6 mos, serum 25-OHD had decreased and was still lower in plac vs suppl. (12.9±4.0 SE vs 32.7±4.1ng/ml. p<.01). BMC at 6 mos was 70±6, 75±5, and 94±7mg/cm for plac suppl. and form; plac and suppl. did not differ; plac was less than form (p<.05). After 6 mos, the study was unblinded, infants received solids and breast-fed infants received 400 IU D/d. 10 form and 13 breast-fed infants were seen at 12 mos, when serum 25-OHD, parathyroid hormone, calcitonin, Ca, P, Mg and alkaline phosphatase did not differ between plac and suppl. BMC at 12 mos was 120±19, 108±20, and 132±8mg/cm for plac, suppl. and form and did not differ; grps did not differ in wt, but plac was shorter (73.3±.38cm) than suppl. (75.8± .89cm, p<.1) or form (75.8±0.32cm, p<.02); one way analysis of variance for 3 grps, p<.05. Thus, vitamin D supplements may be necessary for optimal bone mineralization in breast-fed infants but “catchup” mineralization may occur in infants not given D initially. We speculate that D supplements may also be necessary for optimal body length in breast-fed infants.
Elimination of Ethylene from Metastable Isomeric Silylenium Ions in the Gas Phase: Experiment and Theory

The slow unimolecular dissociations (k ≈ 105 s-1) of gas-phase silylenium ions, SiCnH2n+3+ ions (n = 2−4) have been studied by mass-analyzed ion kinetic energy spectroscopy. On the microsecond time...
FLEXnav: A Fuzzy Logic Expert dead-reckoning system for the Segway RMP

Most mobile robots use a combination of absolute and relative sensing techniques for position estimation. Relative positioning techniques are generally known as dead-reckoning. Many systems use odometry as their only dead-reckoning means. However, in recent years fiber optic gyroscopes have become more affordable and are being used on many platforms to supplement odometry, especially in indoor applications. Still, if the terrain is not level (i.e., rugged or rolling terrain), the tilt of the vehicle introduces errors into the conversion of gyro readings to vehicle heading. In order to overcome this problem vehicle tilt must be measured and factored into the heading computation. A unique new mobile robot is the Segway Robotics Mobility Platform (RMP). This functionally close relative of the innovative Segway Human Transporter (HT) stabilizes a statically unstable single-axle robot dynamically, based on the principle of the inverted pendulum. While this approach works very well for human transportation, it introduces as unique set of challenges to navigation equipment using an onboard gyro. This is due to the fact that in operation the Segway RMP constantly changes its forward tilt, to prevent dynamically falling over. This paper introduces our new Fuzzy Logic Expert rule-based navigation (FLEXnav) method for fusing data from multiple gyroscopes and accelerometers in order to estimate accurately the attitude (i.e., heading and tilt) of a mobile robot. The attitude information is then further fused with wheel encoder data to estimate the three-dimensional position of the mobile robot. We have further extended this approach to include the special conditions of operation on the Segway RMP. The paper presents experimental results of a Segway RMP equipped with our system and running over moderately rugged terrain.
Lymphocyte function in relapsed pulmonary blastomycosis

Lymphocyte function was studied in two patients with multiple relapses of pulmonary blastomycosis following antifungal therapy. Neither patient was anergic to routine delayed hypersensitivity skin testing with common antigens. Both had normal in vitro lymphocyte transformation responses to standard mitogens and common microbial antigens. The ability of lymphocytes from the two patients to respond to antigens of the infecting organism was evaluated using a yeast phase Blastomyces dermatitidis extract in tests of in vitro lymphocyte function. Both patients demonstrated positive responses to this extract in standard assays of two in vitro parameters of lymphocyte function, lymphocyte transformation, and lymphokine production. Therefore if an immunologic defect is responsible for the repeated relapses of treated pulmonary blastomycosis in these two patients, it apparently is not one of deficient lymphocyte responsiveness against the infecting organism, as has been found using similar techniques in patients with disseminated deep infections caused by other fungal organisms.
4.2.1 A Case Study in the Replacement of Legacy Systems with an Enterprise Resource Planning System

This paper presents two case studies that involve the process of replacing multiple legacy systems with a comprehensive Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. The paper will focus on the processes that each company took in evaluating the systems and the data housed in these systems. The lessons learned and an assessment of each company is presented at the conclusion of this paper.
Effect of reactor height on mixing characteristics and performance of the anaerobic downflow stationary fixed-film (DSFF) reactor

Abstract Three anaerobic downflow stationary fixed-film (DSFF) reactors using multiple vertical clay channels of different heights (31, 92 and 183 cm) and treating bean blanching waste showed improved performance and mixing characteristics with increased reactor height. A start-up period of 100 days was necessary to achieve the best performance in terms of loading rate (up to 9.5 kg Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) m−3 d−1) and methane production rate (up to 2.7 m3 m−3 d−1). During this period, differences in performance could only be related to the surface-to-volume ratio. At steady-state, mixing analysis indicated that the reactors deviated from the perfect-mixed pattern. Some dead space and shortcircuiting occurred. The amount of dead space due to biomass accumulation decreased as the reactor height increased (up to 44% for the shortest reactor). The COD removal efficiency was dependent on loading rate, decreasing from 90% at a loading rate of 1.0 kg COD m−3 d−1 to 75% at 7.0 kg COD m−3 d−1. However, the effect was more pronounced in the shortest reactor than in the tallest one. The improvement in mixing characteristics in the tallest reactor could be related to the higher liquid velocity inside channels which in turn permitted better support utilization and concomitant better COD removal. Data also suggest that it may be preferable to scale-up vertically rather than horizontally in order to maximize the liquid velocity in the channels.
Cohabitation and host species effects on the population growth of Matsucoccus resinosae (Homoptera: Margarodidae) and Pineus boerneri (Homoptera: Adelgidae) on red pine

A margarodid scale, Matsucoccus resinosae Bean & Godwin (= M. matsumurae Kuwana), and an adelgid, Pineus boerneri Annand, are serious introduced pests of red pine, Pinus resinosa Aiton, in parts of New England. Studies in a field plot revealed that both insects had significantly greater survival and fecundity on Pinus resinosa than on Pinus thunbergiana Franco, their native host in Asia. The performance of P. boerneri feeding on both the branches and needles of P. resinosa was significantly reduced by the presence of M. resinosae , which fed only on the branches. The presence of P. boerneri had no significant reciprocal effect on the fitness of M. resinosae . Interspecific competition was a significant limiting factor for P. boerneri , and the needles did not provide a refuge from competition. In each of nine pine stands sampled in Connecticut, densities of adelgids and scales during a 7-yr period rose, but then fell sharply as trees became visibly injured. Abundance of P. boerneri on bark and on needles declined sharply in six pine stands following invasion by M. resinosae . In three of these stands, P. boerneri was excluded by its competitor within 3 yr. Although competition occurred among these insects, it did not limit the growth of pest populations to a level at which the host could benefit from this antagonisitic interaction.
Dielectric modeling of the curing process

Dielectric data from an epoxy resin system were used as the foundation for dielectric modeling of the curing process. This resin system (DGEBA-polyamide) was chosen as an easily processible model system. Dielectric average relaxation times, defined as the reciprocal of the angular frequency at which the loss component of the dielectric constant reaches a maximum, were determined for a 40°C isothermal cure. The changes in the average relaxation time through the cure exhibited similar behavior to those for viscosity, which inspired the correlation of the two properties. The dielectric relaxation time was modeled using a six-parameter model analogous to that used for viscosity. The model parameters were in turn associated with both intrinsic properties of the system and reaction kinetics describing the cure. The possibility of extending the relaxation time model for use with single-frequency data by means of a time-frequency correlation was also investigated. Combined, these two modeling methodologies provide a powerful constitutive approach for describing dielectric properties of thermosetting polymers during cure.
Surface Characteristics Of Machined Optics

The light intensity diffracted out of a reflected laser beam as a function of angle can be used to determine a portion of the spectral density function (SDF) of the reflector's surface. These measurements cover the frequency range in which surface deviations are generally termed surface roughness (as opposed to surface contour). In addition to giving values of rms roughness, the SDF can be used to infer more specific surface and machining parameters such as tool feed rate, groove shape information and tool chatter. The SDF also provides an interesting way of comparing roughness measurements made by systems with different spatial frequency band widths. Results are given for a number of machined surfaces. The tendency for large amounts of low frequency roughness is discussed. Surface groove shape is shown to be different from the expected "circular cusp shape" calculated from tool radius and feed rate.© (1976) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Utility of contrast echocardiography in the evaluation of a suspected right atrial mass

Abstract Continuing advances in echocardiographic imaging permit the detection of subtle structural cardiac abnormalities. Proper interpretation of images requires knowledge of normal variants or minimally abnormal findings which may mimic significant pathology. We report 2 cases in which an unusual presentation of a pericardial effusion seen adjacent to the right atrium simulates a right atrial mass and demonstrate the utility of contrast echocardiography in the evaluation of a suspected mass.
Water management in various crop production systems related to soil tillage

Abstract Soil tillage, of different types and intensity and performed at different antecedent soil moisture conditions, is an important tool for agricultural water management. Tillage systems have important applications for increasing irrigation efficiency, enhancing the effectiveness of drainage systems, improving water quality, decreasing runoff losses and minimizing soil erosion, increasing runoff losses for water harvesting and supplemental irrigation, and decreasing percolation losses and creating aquatic environments for rice cultivation. The versatility and diversity of applications of tillage systems depend on the choice of tillage techniques. No-tillage methods with residue mulches are useful to conserve soil water. Chisel tillage and subsoiling methods along with ridge-tillage techniques are useful in increasing irrigation efficiency. No-tillage systems are useful in decreasing sediment density and transport of sediment laden pollutants in runoff, and puddling and wet tillage techniques or soil compaction are used in rice cultivation. Finally soil compaction and techniques to increase water repellence are useful for water harvesting for subsequent use in supplemental irrigation.
A modeling framework for exploring the population-level effects of endocrine disruptors

Methods are proposed for modeling the population-level effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals on age-structured populations. We present a framework for representing xenobiotic-induced impacts to reproductive, life-stage transition, and mortality rates. Numerical simulations are described addressing delayed disturbance and recovery dynamics and potential transgenerational effects.
Human Fetal Muscle and Cultured Myotubes Derived from It Contain a Fetal-Specific Myosin Light Chain

Human fetal muscles at ages 110, 125, and 132 days contain a fetal-specific myosin light chain. This light chain is absent in adult human muscle, copurifies with myosin, and is identified as a slow light chain because it reacts with purified antibody to chicken slow muscle light chains and does not react strongly with antibody to fast myosin light chains. This light chain is synthesized in cultures of fetal muscle along with normal myosin light chains. The presence of a fetal light chain in culture provides a marker for studies of human muscle disease in which it is important to know when or if the muscle makes a transition from embryonic or fetal expression to true adult phenotype.
Omalizumab in asthma: approval and postapproval experience.

Omalizumab is a humanized mouse monoclonal antibody that binds specificially to the constant region of the immunoglobulin (Ig)E heavy chain. Omalizumab exerts its effects by reducing free serum IgE levels and FcɛRI expression on several cell types. These effects have been shown to result in decreased airway inflammation and clinical improvement. In multiple studies, omalizumab has been shown to be efficacious in the treatment of moderate-to-severe persistent asthma and is currently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of moderate-to-severe allergic asthma in patients age 12 yr and older. Moreover, omalizumab has been demonstrated to be effective in the treatment of children and adults with seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis. Postmarketing surveillance has shown omalizumab to be a relatively safe and well-tolerated medication.
Outcome and complications of intraoperative hemodialysis during cardiopulmonary bypass with potassium-rich cardioplegia

Abstract Background: Potassium-rich cardioplegia has advantages over other cardioplegic solutions in preserving the myocardium during cardiopulmonary bypass, but it is avoided in patients with renal failure because of hyperkalemia. Methods: We first determined the ability of intraoperative hemodialysis (IHD) to remove potassium during cardiopulmonary bypass with potassium-rich cardioplegia in 9 patients by measuring potassium levels in all dialysate and urine. We then studied 24 patients with renal failure, grouped with the 9 previous patients, to assess safety, rebound hyperkalemia, and patient outcome with this technique. Results: In the first phase, 9 patients were administered 128 ± 11 mmol of potassium in potassium-rich cardioplegia, and IHD removed 157 ± 23 mmol. Urinary potassium excretion was only 10 ± 3 mmol. Potassium removal occurred at a rate of 1.25 mmol/min with 0-mEq/L (mmol/L) potassium dialysate and a rate of 0.75 mmol/min with 3.0-mEq/L (mmol/L) potassium dialysate. In all 33 patients, successful initiation of cardiac rhythm occurred after cardiopulmonary bypass, and 5 patients had cardiac arrhythmias possibly from hypokalemia. In the next 24 hours, 5 dialysis-dependent patients developed hyperkalemia (potassium > 5.2 mEq/L [mmol/L]) requiring hemodialysis. Postoperative hemodialysis was delayed 2 to 3 days in the other patients. The overall death rate was 24% at 30 days. Conclusion: IHD effectively and safely removes potassium administered during potassium-rich cardioplegia during cardiopulmonary bypass in patients with renal failure and prevents postoperative hyperkalemia in the majority of patients. Overall mortality in patients with acute and chronic renal failure undergoing cardiac surgery is high irrespective of control of potassium balance in these patients.
Spinal Cord Stimulation: The Types of Neurostimulation Devices Currently Being Used, and What Radiologists Need to Know When Evaluating Their Appearance on Imaging

Neural stimulation is increasingly used as a treatment for chronic pain. Common indications for spinal cord stimulation include chronic neuropathic and oncological pain, intractable angina, or chronic pain secondary to vascular disease. It is estimated that up to 4 million patients may be candidates for the therapy. Therefore, it is likely that an increasing number of patients will have spinal neurostimulation devices implanted over the coming years. Because radiography and computed tomography are the primary imaging modalities used to evaluate the proper positioning of these devices, radiologists should be familiar with their appearance. The purpose of this article is to discuss the types of neurostimulation devices currently being used and to demonstrate their respective imaging appearances.