cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Optimal Placement of Radars to Achieve Desired Spatially Nonuniform Probability of Detection

This paper proposes an optimal way to determine the number of radar detectors and their placement to meet a desired spatially nonuniform probability of detection. We also derive a first order Taylor series approximation to linearize the joint probability of detection constraint. This linearized constraint allows the problem to be formulated as a binary linear program, which can be solved in a computationally efficient manor to support resource management of adaptive reconfigurable radar deployments.
Comparison Between Monopolar and Bipolar Pulses for Effective Nanoporation

The utility of electric pulsing for attaining and driving a range of bio-effects have already been discussed. This chapter focuses and probes the role of pulse shape (e.g., monopolar-vs.-bipolar), multiple electrode scenarios, and serial-versus-simultaneous pulsing. A possible analysis based on a three-dimensional time-dependent continuum model is discussed. Our results indicate that monopolar pulsing always leads to higher and stronger cellular uptake. This prediction is in agreement with experimental reports and observations. It is also demonstrated that multipronged electrode configurations influence and increase the degree of cellular uptake.
Gender-specificity of resilience in major depressive disorder.

Introduction The major stressors associated with the COVID-19 pandemic provide an opportunity to understand the extent to which protective factors against depression may exhibit gender-specificity. Method This study examined responses from multiple waves of a 50 states non-probability internet survey conducted between May 2020 and January 2021. Participants completed the PHQ-9 as a measure of depression, as well as items characterizing social supports. We used logistic regression models with population reweighting to examine association between absence of even mild depressive symptoms and sociodemographic features and social supports, with interaction terms and stratification used to investigate sex-specificity. Results Among 73,917 survey respondents, 31,199 (42.2%) reported absence of mild or greater depression-11,011/23,682 males (46.5%) and 20,188/50,235 (40.2%) females. In a regression model, features associated with greater likelihood of depression-resistance included at least weekly attendance of religious services (odds ratio [OR]: 1.10, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.04-1.16) and greater trust in others (OR: 1.04 for a 2-unit increase, 95% CI: 1.02-1.06), along with level of social support measured as number of social ties available who could provide care (OR: 1.05, 95% CI: 1.02-1.07), talk to them (OR: 1.10, 95% CI: 1.07-1.12), and help with employment (OR: 1.06, 95% CI: 1.04-1.08). The first two features showed significant interaction with gender (p Conclusion Aspects of social support are associated with diminished risk of major depressive symptoms, with greater effects of religious service attendance and trust in others observed among women than men.
Special Relativity in Superposition

By deriving the Lorentz transformation from the absolute speed of light, Einstein demonstrated the relativistic variability of space and time, enabling him to explain length contraction and time dilation without recourse to a "luminiferous ether" or preferred frame of reference. He also showed that clocks synchronized at a distance via light signals are not synchronized in a frame of reference differing from that of the clocks. However, by mislabeling the relativity of synchrony the "relativity of simultaneity," Einstein implied that this effect concerns an actual difference in times from one frame to another rather than merely a failure of clock synchronization across frames. As a theory of length contraction and time dilation on the basis of relative motion in the context of the absolute speed of light, special relativity is the definitive interpretation of the Lorentz transformation and the correct explanation of relativistic phenomena. The relativity of simultaneity, as I demonstrate, plays no role in this explanation but instead provides apparent justification for a view of time in which the present moment is frame-dependent. In contrast to its legitimate application, special relativity fails as a theory of time on the basis of the relativity of simultaneity.
Changing decisions in a changing landscape: How might forest owners in an urbanizing region respond to emerging bioenergy markets?

The global bioenergy market has considerable impacts on local land use patterns, including landscapes in the Southeastern United States where increased demand for bioenergy feedstocks in the form of woody biomass is likely to affect the management and availability of forest resources. Despite extensive research investigating the productivity and impacts of different bioenergy feedstocks, relatively few studies have assessed the preferences of private landowners, who control the majority of forests in the eastern U.S., to harvest biomass for the bioenergy market. To better understand contingent behaviors given emerging biomass markets, we administered a stated preference experiment to private forest owners in the rapidly urbanizing Charlotte Metropolitan region. Respondents indicated their preferences for harvesting woody biomass under a set of hypothetical market-based scenarios with varying forest management plans and levels of economic return. Our analytical framework also incorporated data from a previously-administered revealed preference survey and spatially-explicit remote sensing data, enabling us to analyze how individuals’ ownership characteristics, their emotional connection the forests they manage, and the spatial patterns of nearby land uses, influence willingness to grow bioenergy feedstocks. We found conditional support for feedstock production, even among woodland owners with no history of active management. Landowners preferred higher economic returns for each management plan. However low-intensity harvest options were always preferred to more intensive management alternatives regardless of economic return, suggesting that these landowners may be more strongly motivated by aesthetic or quality-of-life concerns than feedstock revenues. Our analysis indicated preferences were dependent upon individual and environmental characteristics, with younger, more rural landowners significantly more interested in growing feedstocks relative to their older and more urban counterparts. While this study focuses on one small sample of urban forest owners, our results do suggest that policy makers and resource managers can better inform stand-level decision-making by understanding how feedstock production preferences vary across populations.
The role of drug-induced sleep endoscopy in the diagnosis and management of obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome: our personal experience

Nowadays, drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) is performed widely and its validity and reliability has been demonstrated by several studies; in fact, it provides clinical information not available by routine clinical inspection alone. Its safety and utility are promising, but still needs to be improved to reach the level of excellence expected of gold standard tests used in clinical practice. Our study compares the results of clinical and diagnostic evaluation with those of sleep endoscopy, evaluating the correlation between clinical indexes of routine clinical diagnosis and sites of obstruction in terms of number of sites involved, entity of obstruction and pattern of closure. This study consists in a longitudinal prospective evaluation of 138 patients who successfully underwent sleep endoscopy at our institution. Patients were induced to sleep with a low dose of midazolam followed by titration with propofol. Sedation level was monitored using bispectral index monitoring. Our results suggest that the multilevel complete collapse was statistically significantly associated with higher apnoea hypopnea index values. By including partial sites of obstruction greater than 50%, our results also suggest that multilevel collapse remains statistically and significantly associated with higher apnoea hypopnoea index values. Analyzing BMI distribution based on number of sites with complete and partial obstruction there was no significant difference. Finally, analyzing Epworth Sleepiness Score distribution based on number of sites with complete obstruction, there was a statistically significant difference between patients with 3-4 sites of obstruction compared to those with two sites or uni-level obstruction. In conclusion, our data suggest that DISE is safe, easy to perform, valid and reliable, as previously reported. Furthermore, we found a good correlation between DISE findings and clinical characteristics such as AHI and EPS. Consequently, adequate assessment by DISE of all sites of obstruction is very important, not only in patients with low-moderate AHI and EPS, but also in patients with a high AHI or/and high EPS, in particular to plan multilevel surgery that in these latter situations is more demanding since success may be harder to achieve.
Observation of microwave induced dc voltages in a YBa2Cu3O7−δ single crystal

Abstract Microwave induced dc voltages in a YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7−δ single crystal have been observed along its c -axis with or without a dc bias current by utilizing standing waves near the end of an X-band (8–12 GHz) waveguide. With a dc bias current, the effect is larger when the single crystal is coupled to the maximum of the microwave H-field, suggesting that the induced dc voltages are due to vortes flow. Without a dc bias current, the induced voltages resemble the inverse ac Josephson effect and require the presence of both the E- and H-fields of the microwave. The temperature and the bias current dependences of the induced voltages both show several peak structures indicating the existence of multiple Josephson junctions inside a single crystal sample.
Stray light performance of UV multichannel spectral measuring instruments

Abstract We show the stray light performance of seven different spectrographs with multichannel detectors when measuring low levels of ultraviolet radiation in a high visible and near infrared background. The poor performance precludes the use of simple spectrographs for accurate multichannel based ultraviolet spectroradiometry.
Limits of anaerobic biodegradation

The main factors responsible for anaerobic recalcitrance are reviewed. Anaerobic recalcitrance is associated with hydrocarbons lacking functional groups, branched molecules (gasoline oxygenates), aromatic amines and aromatic sulfonates. The most recalcitrant compounds are high molecular weight non-hydrolyzable polymers such as plastic, lignin and humus, which cannot be taken up by cells. Recently new capabilities of anaerobic microorganisms have been discovered to degrade compounds previously considered to be recalcitrant. For example, anaerobic bacteria initiate the degradation of alkylbenzenes and alkanes with an unusual addition reaction with fumarate, forming a hydrocarbon-succinate adduct. Finally, new evidence indicates that the most recalcitrant compounds (humic substances) are not so inert and can play important roles in aiding the biodegradation of other compounds by serving as an electron acceptor or redox mediator.
Where is the FCC's Annual Video Competition Report?

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is required by the 1992 Cable Act to produce an "Annual Assessment of the Status of Competition in the Market for the Delivery of Video Programming," otherwise known as the "Annual Video Competition Report." These annual reports are eagerly awaited not merely by lawmakers but everyone who monitors developments in the video marketplace. Twelve installments of the Annual Video Competition Report have been produced since the requirement took effect, but the 13th annual report has inexplicably been stuck in regulatory limbo for almost two years. When the report comes out, it will reflect the state of the video marketplace as of June 30, 2006, which is when the last reporting cycle ended. It is difficult to avoid speculating that one cause of delay is its failure to provide the critical empirical support for FCC Chairman Kevin Martin's "70/70" plan for expanding the Commission's powers over the cable industry, a plan that was widely discussed in the weeks leading up to the report's adoption last November. Importantly, however, when the FCC voted on the latest annual report at that November meeting, the agency did released a handful of encouraging findings from the report, albeit without much fanfare. Vertical integration has fallen steadily since the first Annual Video Competition Report was issued. Most new pay TV channels today are independently owned and offer an unprecedented diversity of programming options. The summary of the upcoming report also mentioned that although cable continues to serve the largest percentage of MVPD subscribers, its market share had fallen to approximately 68.2 percent as of June 2006 and that market share of cable's largest competitor, DBS service, had increased as of June 2006 to 29 percent. These trends are a strong sign of how healthy and vibrantly competitive this marketplace is today.
Design and prototyping of a FRCC modular and climate responsive affordable housing system for underserved people in the pacific island nations

Abstract This paper outlines the process of design and prototyping of a modular housing system aimed at serving the needs of people in the Pacific island nations. Many people in these islands are economically challenged and live in sub-standard housing at low elevations, making them vulnerable to increased tropical storms brought about by climate change. A collaborative team comprised of architecture and engineering faculty and students is currently developing a system to address the need for improved housing in the Pacific islands based on the criteria of affordability, customizable design, thermal comfort, durability, sustainability, and local reproducibility. To best address the design criteria, the team reviewed indigenous building and tropical architecture literature, studied climactic factors, formed alternative design strategies, and selected the most promising for further development. A method of using precast fiber-reinforced cementitious composite (FRCC) modular components was chosen, with a limited number of parts to lower unit cost. The assembly was designed to allow homeowners to participate in the construction process, and the house is adaptable by adding or reconfiguring modules. To provide thermal comfort, the design evolved to include shading overhangs, a narrow floor plate, porous walls, and a ridge vent for stack ventilation. Durability is addressed through structural design and material selection. The structure is designed to withstand anticipated hurricane and storm surge events. Local reproducibility is sought by using materials and methods of construction possible with moderate workforce training and minimal capitalization costs. A successful housing system for the Pacific Islands must address cultural, environmental, constructional, and structural factors, and therefore benefits from a collaborative design approach involving both architects and engineers. The proposed system as developed to date appears to be a promising solution to provide affordable, sustainable, and resilient housing for underserved people in the Pacific islands. Pending availability of funding, a first prototype house is slated for construction on a Pacific island site and evaluated for cost, thermal comfort, climate effect resistance, and occupant satisfaction.
Interventions Work But We Need More

Children who are both gifted and who have a learning disability (LD) have unique needs (Bees, 1998; Schubert, 1996; West, 1991) that place them at risk (Robinson, 1999) and that are usually overlooked by the public educational system (Winner, 1999; Brody & Mills, 1997). Although some of these students are provided services for either their gifts or their learning disabilities, very few of these students are eligible for services that both develop their areas of weakness and allow them to explore their areas of strength (Brody & Mills, 1997). This oversight may have significant consequences both indirectly and directly on the students’ opportunity to succeed in careers that utilize their areas of strength. Directly, the students will have little or no opportunity to develop their abilities. Indirectly, this lack of services may create a lessened sense of self-efficacy. Although very few programs that simultaneously address the diverse needs of students with gifts and LD have been available to students, the ones that have been developed are reporting great success (e.g., Weinfeld, Barnes-Robinson, Jeweler, Shevitz, 2002). However, these existing programs have been focused primarily on students who demonstrate one distinct profile of the gifted/LD learner—those students whose gifts fall in the domain of analytical ability or high IQ. As this field progresses, we present the case for a broader conception of giftedness to include students who may have gifts in domains such as creative or practical abilities that are often the impetus for success beyond school. We argue that children who demonstrate extraordinary abilities in such domains as leading their peers, or applying what they have learned in practical situations, or finding novel solutions to problems, will be some of our greatest resources for the future and will benefit from the support in developing these abilities. This chapter will begin with a review of the literature on existing intervention programs for students with gifts and learning disabilities and conclude with recommendations for programs that address a broader range of strengths including gifts in the creative and practical domains of ability.
Effect of the tube diameter distribution on the high-temperature structural modification of bundled single-walled carbon nanotubes.

We present results of a systematic high-resolution transmission electron microscopy study of the thermal evolution of bundled single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) subjected to ∼4-h high-temperatu...
Emission factors for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons from biomass burning

Emission factors for 19 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons were measured during wind tunnel simulations of open burning for agricultural and forest biomass fuels including cereal grasses, agricultural tree prunings, and fir and pine wood (slash). Yields of total PAH varied from 5 to 683 mg kg-1 depending principally on burning conditions and to a lesser extent on fuel type. Barley straw and wheat straw loaded at 400−500 g m-2 emitted much higher levels of PAH, including benzo[a]pyrene, than other cereal and wood fuel types burning under more robust conditions. As anticipated, total PAH emission rates increased with increasing particulate matter emission rates and with declining combustion efficiency.
Synaptic depression at a synapse inAplysia californica: Analysis in terms of a material flow model of neurotransmitter

When a pair of stimuli separated by an appropriate interval is given to the right visceropleural connective of Aplysia californica the amplitude of the second EPSP elicited in cell R15 is usually smaller than the amplitude of the first EPSP. In the present paper we show that this phenomenon, synaptic depression, can be analyzed in terms of the material flow model of neurotransmitter economics developed in our preceding publications. We specifically show how changes in the 4 model parameters; A, the available pool of transmitter; F, the fraction of the available pool released by a presynaptic action potential; M, the rate of transmitter mobilization into the available pool; and D, the rate constant of demobilization of transmitter from the available pool, all effect synaptic depression. In addition, we show how transient changes in F and M, that are observed immediately and for seconds after a stimulus, influence the time course of synaptic depression. Using this analysis we then tested our previous inferences about changes in the model parameters produced either by pharmacological manipulations or repetitive stimulation, by comparing the observed effects of these manipulations on synaptic depression with the theoretical predictions. The theoretical and experimental findings agreed, thereby strengthening both our previous conclusions of the mode of action of these manipulations and the model itself.
Composite membranes with a highly selective polymer skin for hydrogen separation

Abstract This study reports the fabrication of a highly hydrogen selective cross-linked polymer skin on a highly permeable mixed matrix membrane. Selective polymer skins were prepared by spin coating a thin layer of 6FDA-durene polymer onto ZIF-8/6FDA-durene mixed matrix membranes followed by subsequent cross-linking of the 6FDA-durene layer with ethylene diamine (EDA) vapor. Resultant membrane yielded significantly high gas pair selectivities for the separation of H2/CO2, H2/N2 and H2/CH4 of 29, 341, and 278, respectively, while also maintaining a high hydrogen permeability of 500 Barrers. The superior separation performances of this system surpass the current permeability–selectivity tradeoff limits (Robeson 2008 upper bound) for H2/CO2, H2/N2, and H2/CH4 separations. The present work elucidates the potential of fabricating a highly selective layer (thin skin) on a highly permeable membrane to obtain high permeability and high selectivity simultaneously.
Response plasticity of neurons in auditory cortex of the untrained rhesus monkey

Evoked responses from single neurons in auditory cortex were examined in untrained rhesus monkeys under three states: (1) monkeys' eyes open and occasionally tracking a moving object, (2) eyes closed for at least 30 sec, and (3) anesthetized with 5 or 10 mg/kg ketamine. Pure‐tone or white‐noise stimuli were presented monaurally to the contralateral ear. The subjects' heads were rigidly restrained. Marked changes in evoked response were frequently seen as the animal drifted from state 1 to state 2. Most commonly the response weakened or disappeared altogether, but occasionally more complex changes occurred in a unit's response pattern, threshold, or tuning characteristics. Ketamine produced various effects, depending on the unit observed: in some cases the evoked response disappeared while in others it became very stable. The changes in responsiveness could not be accounted for by small changes in stimulus intensity which might result from pinna movements or middle‐ear muscle contractions, since they were often more dramatic than changes produced by even large changes (>30 dB) in intensity. The results reemphasize the need for careful specification of the subject's behavioral and physiological state in studies of neural coding. [Supported by Grants NS‐08181, RR‐00166, and GM‐00260 from NIH.]
Bimanual coordination in children: manipulation of object distance

The performance of many everyday activities requires the coordination of the two upper limbs to achieve the goal of the task. Although bimanual performance has been studied in detail in adults, few studies have examined how children coordinate the movements of the two hands during symmetric and asymmetric bimanual prehension. With the current study, we asked younger (4–6 years, n = 14) and older (7–10 years, n = 16) children to complete a discrete bimanual task. Specifically, they reached to grasp cylinders located at near and far positions in either unimanual or bimanual condition. During bimanual symmetric conditions, participants performed movements with both hands toward two objects located at the same distance (both near or both far), while in the bimanual asymmetric conditions, they reached for objects at different distances. Results of the kinematic analyses indicated that the young children consistently experienced the “two target” effect, whereby bimanual movements were executed more slowly than unimanual movements to the same distance. Older children employed a hybrid strategy, exhibiting slower movements in bimanual congruent conditions, but larger non-dominant apertures in bimanual incongruent conditions. This hybrid strategy was hypothesized to stem from developmental changes occurring in the integration of sensory information around 8 years of age. While older children exhibited temporal and spatial coordination patterns that were similar to patterns reported in adults, large relative timing differences at the start and end of bimanual movements and considerably weaker spatial coupling were seen in the younger children.
Manganese ii oxidation in the suboxic zone of the black sea

Measurements of manganese(II) removal from solution and oxidation were made in the suboxic zone of the Black Sea during Leg 3 of the U.S.-Turkey Black Sea Expedition in June 1988. Two types of rate measurements were conducted. First, Mn(II) removal rate measurements were made under air saturation conditions and in the presence and absence of a biological poison to determine the potential (maximal) rates of Mn(II) binding and oxidation as a result of microbial activity. Second, rates of Mn(II) removal from solution were measured under pH, O2 and temperature conditions simulating those found in situ. By subtracting results from experiments conducted in the absence of oxygen from the oxygen-containing experiments, estimates of Mn(II) oxidation rates could be derived. Both the potential Mn(ll) removal rates and the Mn(II) oxidation rates were 1–2 orders of magnitude higher at the nearshore station (BS3-3) than at a station in the central Black Sea (BS3-6). Residence times of dissolved Mn(II) with respect to oxidation were about 0.6 days at BS3-3 and greater than 9 days at BS3-6. The absolute rates of Mn(II) oxidation in the Black Sea were 1–4 orders of magnitude faster than observed in any other marine environment. The average calculated rate constant for Mn(II) oxidation (kMn) was 1.4 × 1024 M−4 day−1, 5–6 orders of magnitude faster than that calculated for autocatalytic Mn(II) oxidation on the surface of colloidal MnO2. This extremely high rate constant coupled with the inhibition of Mn(II) removal by azide, glutaraldehyde and formaldehyde indicate that Mn(II) oxidation is biologically catalysed. Measurements conducted at BS3-3 1 week apart also demonstrated significant temporal variability in Mn(II) removal rates. Because the removal and oxidation of Mn(II) is so pronounced along the coastal margins it is possible that horizontal advective processes involving Mn(II) oxidation may have a profound influence on the biogeochemistry of other redox sensitive elements within the suboxic zone of the Black Sea and may help explain the depth distribution of particulate Mn observed in the central basin.
Graphical solution of a simple creep equation for IN-718

Abstract A general constitutive relation between stress and the product of functions of time and strain was solved for creep data on IN-718 at 593°C extending to times of 30,000 hours. The graphical solutions were used to reconstruct the creep curves with reasonable precision, except at short times for high stresses where significant loading strains were included. The form of the time function allowed construction of a master creep curve in terms of a simple time - stress parameter.
Getting Away and Getting By: The Experiences of Self-Employed Homeworkers

This article examines the emancipatory and restrictive dimensions of self-employed homework. The analysis is based on in-depth interviews with 46 individuals, predominantly women, who work in home-based, self-employed professional, domestic service, or craft production ventures. In line with predictions that self-employed homework is liberating to workers, most respondents viewed self-employed homework as a means for breaking away from traditional employment options. Mothers also hoped to combine paid work and child care. However, in line with exploitation hypotheses, findings indicate that the profit requirements of doing business and conflicts between work and family demands led respondents to replicate at home some of the negative, exploitative work arrangements that they tried to escape. The social location of respondents, which included gender, family status, resources, and race-ethnicity as well as local and regional economic conditions, varied respondents' experiences of self-employed homework and ...
In search of a motivating multicultural music experience: lessons learned from the Sounds of Silk project

The aim of the Sounds of Silk project was to develop an interdisciplinary educational program that combines the study of Chinese music and culture with the goal of motivating students' learning. It involved three schools, six teachers and 250 fifth- and sixth-grade students in New York City. Participants explored three topics in Chinese music and culture through live demonstrations by Chinese musicians, classroom lessons and student creative projects over a 10-week period. The daily life, philosophies and festivals of people in China were studied in relation to Chinese music. Results revealed that multicultural music can motivate learning when it (a) provides novelty and interest in class, (b) is relevant and meaningful, and (c) is based on a student-centered curriculum with practical creative activities. An interdisciplinary approach to multicultural music education and a broad perspective on music education with a focus on the enrichment of students' life experiences are recommended.
Robust digital dead time compensator controller for a class of stabel systems

Abstract A simple way to design a robust digital dead-time compensator controller for a class of common stable processes is suggested. The method requires limited and possibly inaccurate information on the step response of the process. The underlying idea is to model the process by a gain, lag and a dead-time, a common practice in control design. In its simplest form the algorithm reduces to the robust regulator introduced by Astrom. The design process and the performance of the digital control law are illustrated by a detailed example.
Changes in the Medium Range Order of α-Si:H Thin Films Observed by Variable Coherence Tem

We have investigated the structure of a-Si:H thin films using variable coherence transmission electron microscopy. Variable coherence is a new microscopy technique that is sensitive to higher-order atomic position correlations. We observe changes in the structure of α-Si:H with increasing hydrogen content and with light soaking. Based on these observations we conclude that a less ordered form of α-Si:H is more structurally stable than a more ordered form. This may have implications for understanding the Staebler-Wronski effect.
Recovery, survival and dissemination of human enteric viruses in ocean waters receiving sewage in Hawaii

A commercial model of a portable virus concentrator operating on the principle of the membrane virus adsorption-elution technique was used to examine the recovery and distribution of human enteropathogenic viruses in Hawaiian waters receiving sewage wastes. Although operating at an efficiency of 20%, a variety of human enteric viruses was isolated, including polioviruses, Coxsackievirus and Echoviruses. Positive virus isolations were consistently made and at high concentrations at sampling stations closest to the sewage outfall. The frequency of virus isolations decreased with increasing distance from the discharge site. viruses were recovered in all directions from the outfall and even as far as 3.2 km east but not 6.4 km away from the discharge site. Tidal conditions to some degree were found to influence the dissemination of viruses. However, since sampling was generally performed at the surface of the water (0.3 to 0.6 m depth), the influence of winds and surface currents was more difficult to assess. Although a positive correlation was found between the presence of high concentrations of indicator coliforms and viruses in waters closest to the discharge site, this relationship was not seen at sampling stations farther away. At these latter stations, positive virus isolations with corresponding low to negligible coliform counts were made which reaffirmed previous published observations that human enteric viruses are relatively more stable in ocean water than coliform bacteria. Furthermore, the instability of the coliform bacteria consequently affected the fecal coliform/fecal streptococci ratios which thus invalidated the use of such ratios to indicate contamination by human wastes.
Intensive therapies for pediatric obesity

The intensive therapies that have been used to treat pediatric and adolescent obesity include very-low-calorie diets, pharmacotherapy, and bariatric surgery. None of these approaches have been reported in sufficient numbers of subjects who have taken part in well-designed experiments with long-term follow-up to demonstrate convincingly their true value for the treatment of pediatric obesity. As the potency of the therapy increases, so does its possible adverse consequences. Of the intensive approaches, only bariatric surgery can be said to have even small studies supporting its ability to induce long-lasting (> 1 year) effects on body weight in severely obese adolescents. The risks and benefits of intensive weight-management therapies should be weighed carefully before they are used with pediatric-aged patients. Until further controlled trials become available, intensive therapies for pediatric obesity should be considered only for children who have not responded to conventional weight-management programs but have significant complications of their obesity. Intensive approaches generally should be restricted to specialized centers that have experience with those treatments and should be carried out in the context of a comprehensive weight-management program.
Conditions for instabilities in collapsible solids including volume implosion and compaction banding

We review conditions for material instabilities in porous solids induced by a bifurcation of solution into non-unique strain rate fields. Bifurcation modes considered include jumps in the strain rate tensor of ranks one and higher representing deformation band and diffuse instability modes, respectively. Eigenmodes (e-modes) are extracted for each type of instability to fully characterize various frameworks of deformation in collapsible solids. For diffuse instability these e-modes are determined from a homogeneous system of linear equations emanating from the condition of zero jump in the stress rate tensor, which in turn demands that the tangent constitutive tensor be singular for the existence of nontrivial solutions. For isotropic materials we describe two types of singularity of the constitutive tensor: (a) singularity of the constitutive matrix in principal axes, and (b) singularity of spin. Accordingly, we derive the e-modes for each type of singularity. We utilize the singularity of the constitutive matrix in principal axes as a precursor to volume implosion in collapsible solids such as loose sands undergoing liquefaction instability and high-porosity rocks undergoing cataclastic flow. Finally, we compare conditions and e-modes for volume implosion and compaction banding, two similar failure modes ubiquitous in granular soils and rocks.
Genetic causes of bronchiectasis

Our understanding of the pathologic cycle leading to the development of bronchiectasis is enhanced by greater understanding of the genetic influences contributing to its development. Genome-wide linkage analysis, family-based genetic linkage studies, and the testing of candidate genes have all greatly advanced our understanding of the complexity of the genetic basis of bronchiectasis. This article discusses how allelic variations, gene modifiers, HLA associations, and the interplay of developmental, host, and environmental factors all contribute in lesser and greater degrees, depending on the specific disease, toward the development of bronchiectasis in a spectrum of disease processes.
The family impacts of proton radiation therapy for children with brain tumors

Children with brain tumors experience significant alterations to their health and well-being due to the tumors themselves and oncologic treatment. Caring for children with brain tumors can have significant impacts on families, especially during and shortly after treatment. In this study of the impacts on families caring for children undergoing proton radiation therapy for brain tumors, the authors found that families experienced a broad array of negative impacts. Families reported feeling like they were living on a roller coaster, feeling that others treated them differently, and having to give up things as a family. In the multivariable linear regression model, older age of the child and higher reported child health-related quality of life were associated with less family impact. The presence of concurrent chemotherapy was associated with increased family impact. This is the first study to specifically evaluate the families of children being treated with proton radiation therapy. The findings in this study are consistent with the findings in other studies of children treated with standard therapy that show that families experience a variety of stressors and negative impacts while their children are receiving treatment. Health care providers should be aware of the potential impacts on families of children with brain tumors and their treatment to provide robust services to meet the health, psychological, and social needs of such children and their families.
Computational investigation of the effect of up-armouring on the reduction in occupant injury or fatality in a prototypical high-mobility multi-purpose wheeled vehicle subjected to mine blast

AbstractA comprehensive finite-element-based computational investigation of the ability of different measures (e.g. up-armouring, seat cushion, or seat belt restraint system) to protect the occupant(s) of a prototypical high-mobility multi-purpose wheeled vehicle in the event of an anti-vehicle mine detonation under the vehicle's front right wheel is carried out. While assessing the effectiveness of these protective measures, different injury criteria had to be defined and/or employed, their values calculated (during the initial response stage of the blast event), and compared with the limiting values corresponding to the critical levels of injury. The efficacies are compared both when these measures are implemented in isolation and in the presence of other protective measures with respect to specific injuries.
Conservation Genetics of Bull Trout in the Columbia and Klamath River Drainages

: We used 51 isozyme loci to determine the population genetic structure of bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus) in the Columbia and Klamath River drainages. The sampled populations have little genetic variation within and significant genetic differences among themselves. Preserving the genetic diversity of bull trout will require the continued existence of many populations throughout this region. Bull trout from the Columbia and Klamath drainages would qualify as separate “species” under the United States Endangered Species Act according to criteria established for anadromous salmonid fishes. Genotype frequencies at the four variable loci in a group of bull trout used for artificial supplementation indicate an extremely small number of effective parents. The release of such fish into the wild could have harmful effects on native fish populations. Non-native brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) have been introduced throughout the range of bull trout, and hybridization between these species has been reported. Protein and mitochondrial DNA genotypes collected from one stream in western Montana over an eight-year period indicate the displacement of bull trout by brook trout. This rapid displacement was accompanied by extensive production of interspecific first-generation hybrids by both reciprocal crosses. Resumen: Usamos 51 loci de enzimas para determinar la estructura poblacional genetica de la trucha “bull” (Salvelinus confluentus) en las cuencas de los rios Columbia Kalmath. Las poblaciones muestreadas tienen poca variabilidad genetica interna y diferencias geneticas significativas entre ellas. La preservacion de la diversidad genetica de la trucha “bull” requerira la existencia continua de muchas poblaciones a lo largo de esta region. La trucha “bull” de las cuencas de los rios Columbia y Klamath podrian ser catalogadas como “especies” distintas bajo el Acta de Especies en peligro de los Estados Unidos de acuerdo a los criterios establecidos para especies de salmonidos anadromos. La frecuencias genotipicas de los cuatro loci variables en un grupo de trucha “bull” usado para la suplementacion artificial indica un numero efectivo de padres extremadamente pequena. La introduccion en la naturaleza de tales peces podria tener efectos nocivos sobre las poblaciones nativas de peces. Truchas “brook”, no-nativas (Salvelinus fontinalis) han sido introducidas a lo largo de todo el rango de distribucion de la trucha bull, y se ha reportado la hibridacion entre estas especies. Genotipos de proteinas y mitocondriales recolectados en un arroyo en el oeste de Montana a lo largo de un periodo de ocho anos indica que la trucha “bull” esta siendo desplazada por la trucha “brook”. Este rapido desplazamiento fue acompanado por la extensiva produccion de hibridos inter-especificos de primera generacion por los dos cruces reciprocos.
On the fourier transforms of an interesting class of measures

Let {Xk,k=1,2,…} be a sequence of independent binomial variables, with\(P\{ X_k = 1\} = 1 - P\{ X_k = 0\} = P_k \cdot Let Y = \sum\limits_{k = 1}^\infty {X_k /2^k and \hat \mu (t)} be\) the Fourier transform of the distribution ofY. Finally denote lim [Pk − 1/2] byδ. We haveTheorem. \((4/\pi )\delta \leqq \overline {\mathop {\lim }\limits_{x \to \infty } } \left| {\hat \mu (t)} \right| \leqq 2\delta \)
The 7Li(n, p)7He reaction

Abstract The proton energy spectra at several angles from the 7 Li(n, p) 7 He reaction confirm earlier studies using the 7 Li(t, 3 He) 7 He reaction where 7 He was found to be unbound to neutron emission by 420 ± 60 keV. The cross section at θ c.m. = 0° is 0.40 ± 0.1 mb/sr, and at θ c.m. = 30° a value of 0.35 ± 0.10 mb/sr is obtained. Also observed in this study are the deuteron, triton and 6 He spectra from the 14.8 MeV neutron bombardment of 7 Li.
The Effects of Dehydration-Rehydration Cycles on Protein Synthesis of Black Locust Seedlings

Protein synthetic activity of polysomes isolated during dehydration-rehydration cycles of black locust seedlings (Robiniapseudoacacia L.) was investigated. Polysomes of black locust seedlings were reduced by only 20% during water stress and were capable of incorporating 3H-leucine into peptide chins. RNase activity increased during stress and declined following irrigation. The presence of a protective mechanism is suggested which, if present in other drought hardy species, could help to explain the ability of these species to withstand various levels of water stress.
Vacuum field energy and spontaneous emission in anomalously dispersive cavities

Anomalously dispersive cavities, particularly white-light cavities, may have larger bandwidth to finesse ratios than their normally dispersive counterparts. Partly for this reason, they have been proposed for use in laser interferometer gravitational-wave observatory (LIGO)-like gravity-wave detectors and in ring-laser gyroscopes. In this paper we analyze the quantum noise associated with anomalously dispersive cavity modes. The vacuum field energy associated with a particular cavity mode is proportional to the cavity-averaged group velocity of that mode. For anomalously dispersive cavities with group index values between 1 and 0, this means that the total vacuum field energy associated with a particular cavity mode must exceed $\ensuremath{\hbar}\ensuremath{\omega}/2$. For white-light cavities in particular, the group index approaches zero and the vacuum field energy of a particular spatial mode may be significantly enhanced. We predict enhanced spontaneous emission rates into anomalously dispersive cavity modes and broadened laser linewidths when the linewidth of intracavity emitters is broader than the cavity linewidth.
Civic Engagement and Fiscal Stress in American Cities Insights from the Great Recession

The Great Recession had a major effect on the provision of local public services. This article examines civic engagement before, during, and after the Great Recession using data from State of the P...
Experimental characterization of multi-hop communications in vehicular ad hoc network

This paper presents the performance measurement of TCP and UDP communication of a multi-hop Vehicular Ad Hoc Network (VANET) in highway and suburban areas. We use existing out-of-box IEEE 802.11b wireless cards on inter-vehicle communication between three cars. Also, we conduct experiments with three static nodes for baseline comparisons with the moving nodes. We then derive inferences in three major areas: (1) providing adjustable network parameters to manage network instabilities, (2) improving UDP efficiency by detecting out-of-touch receivers early, and (3) using speed, route, and distance to improve routing protocols.
Corrosion of Fe-Cr-Mn alloys in thermally convective lithium

A series of austenitic Fe-Cr-Mn steels was exposed to circulating lithium at temperatures up to 500/sup 0/C. Two groups of the alloys, which contained 12 to 30 wt % Mn and 2 to 20 wt % Cr, were sequentially exposed for periods greater than 3000 h in a type 316 stainless steel thermal convection loop. Mass transfer of manganese caused very large weight losses from the steels containing 30 wt % Mn. However, the actual magnitude of corrosion losses for alloys containing 12 to 20 wt % Mn was difficult to establish due to competing surface reactions involving chromium.
Practical reason and the ontology of statutes

A common working assumption of theories of statutory interpretation is that the object of interpretation is uncontroversial. It is assumed that dispute only centers on the epistemics of interpretation. The assumption is unsound. Theories of statutory interpretation are importantly different from other sorts of theories. The subject matter of other sorts of theories can be identified uncontroversially. In the case of statutory interpretation, the object of interpretation is controversial. What counts as the object of interpretation therefore needs specification. Without the required specification, criteria of evidence and warrant justifying an interpretation are not well-defined. An adequate theory of statutory interpreation must contain both epistemic and ontological components. It must provide criteria for treating information as evidence relevant to, and standards for, interpreting a statute. Providing such criteria in turn requires also giving an account of the object of interpretation — what a statute consists in. Practical reason theories fail to provide acceptable criteria and standards for interpreting a statute. These accounts therefore fail to supply an adequate epistemic components for a theory of statutory interpretation. As to the ontological component, things are less clear. I have argued in sections II and III that this component is partly a matter of substantive political theory. Although practical reason theorists fail to offer a substantive political theory for defining the proper object of interpretation, their accounts are in principle ontologically unobjectionable. At most, practical reason accounts are incomplete. Of course, practical reason accounts might still be defective for other reasons. They may invoke a defective substantive political theory. Or the constraints imposed on properties of a statute or relations between them may not in fact affectuate the goals set by the theory. Such failings would be normative, not metaphysical. Since practical reason accounts are epistemically inadequate and ontologically incomplete, legal theorists should find the accounts less attractive than they do, even putting aside the normative soundness of the accounts.