cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Covariance Matrix Reconstruction Using Parsimonious Measurements and Low-sample Support

In this paper, we consider the problem of spacetime adaptive processing (STAP) weight vector design using parsimonious spatial measurements and low temporal sample support. The extreme case when a single space-time data snapshot is the only available data is considered. It is assumed that dense discrete clutter components are spread along the clutter ridge. We propose a method for clutter-plus-noise covariance matrix reconstruction in the absence of secondary data. A two stage approach is adopted where a coarse angle-Doppler map is created in the first stage while a fine map is obtained in the second stage. It is shown that the clutter components can be accurately localized in the final angle-Doppler map. The final map is used to construct the covariance matrix and design the full array STAP weight vector. We show that the performance of the proposed STAP processor using parsimonious measurements is comparable to the performance of STAP design using full-dimensional arrays. Simulations examples are used to validate the effectiveness of the proposed STAP design technique.
Rationale and design of the Hyperglycemic Profiles in Obstructive Sleep Apnea (HYPNOS) trial.

Abstract The Hyperglycemic Profiles in Obstructive Sleep Apnea (HYPNOS) randomized clinical trial was conducted in adults with type 2 diabetes and moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) to determine whether treatment with positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy is associated with improvements in glycemic measures. Participants were randomly assigned to PAP therapy with lifestyle counseling or lifestyle counseling alone. While observational and experimental evidence indicate that intermittent hypoxemia and recurrent arousals in OSA may alter glucose metabolism and worsen glycemic measures, the effect of treating OSA with PAP therapy on these measures in type 2 diabetes is uncertain. Adequately powered randomized clinical trials have yet to be performed to demonstrate whether PAP therapy for OSA in patients with type 2 diabetes can improve glycemic measures. The HYPNOS trial was designed to determine whether PAP therapy for OSA in patients with type 2 diabetes over 3 months leads to improvements in glycemic measures including glycemic variability (standard deviation) based on Dexcom G4 Platinum continuous glucose monitoring. Secondary objectives were to assess the effects of PAP therapy for OSA on measures of: (1) glycemic variability based on Abbott Freestyle Pro Libre continuous glucose monitoring; (2) point-of-care hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c); (3) degree of post-prandial hyperglycemia as determined by 7-point self-monitoring of blood glucose; (4) clinic and ambulatory blood pressure; and (5) endothelial function. The HYPNOS trial was designed to address gaps in our understanding of the effects of PAP therapy on glucose metabolism in adults with type 2 diabetes and moderate-to-severe OSA. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT02454153
Wear Resistance of 3D Printed and Prefabricated Denture Teeth Opposing Zirconia.

Purpose To evaluate the wear resistance of a recently developed three-dimensional (3D) printed denture teeth resin compared to three commercially available prefabricated denture teeth. Materials and methods A total of 88 maxillary first molar denture teeth were evaluated: C (Classic; Dentsply Sirona, York, PA), DCL (SR Postaris DCL; Ivoclar Vivadent, Schaan, Liechtenstein), IPN (Portrait IPN; Dentsply Sirona, York, PA), and F (Denture Teeth A2 Resin 1 L; Formlabs, Somerville, MA). The 3D printed denture tooth specimens were fabricated from a methacrylate-based photopolymerizing resin using stereolithography (SLA). Denture teeth were subjected to a three-body wear test with a poly(methylmethacrylate) (PMMA) abrasive slurry. A Leinfelder-style four station wear apparatus with custom bullet-shaped milled zirconia styli was utilized with a load force of 36-40 N at 1.7 Hz for 200,000 cycles. Maximum depth of wear was measured using a lab grade scanner and analyzing software program. Data were analyzed using a one-way ANOVA followed by the Tukey's Multiple Comparisons post hoc test (α = 0.05). Results A statistically significant difference in depth of wear was found between denture tooth materials (p 0.001). Conclusions Denture tooth material significantly influences the depth of wear. The 3D printed denture teeth demonstrated superior wear resistance compared to the commercially available prefabricated denture teeth when opposed to zirconia. Denture teeth fabricated with SLA technology may have a promising future in prosthetic dentistry.
Quantifying Wildfire-Induced Impacts to Photovoltaic Energy Production in the western United States

Smoke from wildfires results in air pollution that can impact the performance of solar photovoltaic plants. Production is impacted by factors including the proximity of the fire to a site of interest, the extent of the wildfire, wind direction, and ambient weather conditions. We construct a model that quantifies the relationships among weather, wildfire-induced pollution, and PV production for utility-scale and distributed generation sites located in the western United States. The regression model identified a 9.4%-37.8% reduction in solar PV production on smokey days. This model can be used to determine expected production losses at impacted sites. We also present an analysis of factors that contribute to solar photovoltaic energy production impacts from wildfires. This work will inform anticipated production changes for more accurate grid planning and operational considerations.
Does Transverse Abdominis Plane Block Increase the Risk of Postoperative Urinary Retention after Inguinal Hernia Repair

Background and objective Postoperative urinary retention (POUR) is a common adverse event after inguinal hernia repair (IHR), with an incidence of up to 22.2%. The aim of this study is to determine if pre-operative transverse abdominis plane (TAP) block increases the incidence of POUR. Methods A retrospective review was performed for all patients who underwent IHR (open or laparoscopic) at this institution, from January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2017. Patients were divided into two groups: Patients that had a TAP block before surgery (group 1) and patients with no TAP block (group 2). Common demographics and comorbidities were collected along with postoperative outcomes and POUR incidence rates for every group to determine procedural influence. Results From 276 patients reviewed, 28.2% (N = 78) underwent TAP block before surgery. The patient cohort mean age was 61.1 ± 14.4 years. Most the interventions were laparoscopic (81.2%) and an overall POUR incidence rate of 7.6% (N = 21) was observed. Comparatively, common demographics and comorbidities were statistically similar for both groups, with the exception of type 2 diabetes mellitus (p = 0.049). Individually, group 1 and 2 presented POUR incidence rates of 14.1% and 5.05%, respectively. While intraoperative fluid administration, early readmission rate, and length were similar in both groups, there was a significant difference in POUR incidence rates (p = 0.01). Conclusion Patients undergoing TAP block during IHR might have an increased risk of developing POUR. Further larger, prospective, and randomized controlled studies are necessary to better assess these findings.
Performance as promised. Restructuring the US civil space programme

Abstract Projects in the US civil space programme typically cut back capabilities, slip schedules and overrun cost estimates. Such shortfalls in performance are normal but not inevitable. They call into question NASA's viability as an institution, jeopardize long-term support for the space programme and waste resources that could be used to advance space science, exploration and applications. A restructured programme, built up from relatively modest and discrete projects, would allow project managers to improve performance as promised and would provide the resilience necessary for the programme as a whole to adapt to changing national needs and the lessons of experience. Restructuring requires leadership brought to bear on certain key decisions to establish the expectation that performance counts. In any case, restructuring of some kind may be unavoidable over the next few years.
Metal-support interaction on Pt/ZrO2 catalysts for the CO2 reforming of CH4

Three forms of catalyst modification have been explored to elucidate the reaction mechanism and the role of the support in the CO2 reforming of CH4. The results of this study show that partial encapsulation of the metal does not significantly alter the catalytic performance and any differences in performance due to varying pretreatment conditions can be ascribed to variations in the particle size. In addition, promoters can be added to the support to increase the thermal stability, increase CO2 adsorption capacity, and decrease particle growth. Finally, a Pt/ZrO2-perovskite physical mixture has exhibited high stability for the reforming reaction in the presence of steam and under elevated pressures.
The effect of parathyroid hormone on the concentration of adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate in skeletal tissue in vitro.

Abstract Adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate (3',5'-AMP) was assayed in calvaria isolated from fetal rats at term. A marked increase in 3',5'-AMP was detected in vitro within 1 min after adding purified parathyroid hormone to calvaria incubated in Krebs-Ringer-bicarbonate or Krebs-Ringer-Tris buffer. A maximal effect was detected after 5 min of incubation with added parathyroid hormone. The lowest concentration of parathyroid hormone causing a significant effect was 0.05 µg per ml or 5 x 10-9 m. The response was a direct function of the log concentration of parathyroid hormone from 0.1 to 1.0 µg per ml, became maximal at 10 µg per ml, did not require potassium, magnesium, or calcium in the incubation medium, and was not inhibited by a high (5 mm) concentration of calcium. Epinephrine and prostaglandins E1 and E2 also caused a significant increase in skeletal 3',5'-AMP. The effect of epinephrine was abolished by propranolol, but this β-adrenergic blocking agent did not affect the response to the prostaglandins or to parathyroid hormone; phentolamine did not affect the response to any of these substances. Calcitonin caused a slight increase in skeletal 3',5'-AMP, but the maximal effect was small and the response was not related to the concentration of polypeptide. Only the effect of parathyroid hormone was clearly relatable to direct hormonal activation of adenyl cyclase in the tissue. Neither thyrotropin, corticotropin, glucagon, insulin, luteinizing hormone, growth hormone, adenosine 5'-monophosphate, guanosine 3',5'-monophosphate, 25-hydroxycholecalciferol, nor sodium fluoride affected the concentration of 3',5'-AMP in this test system. These findings provide further evidence that the physiological actions of parathyroid hormone are mediated by 3',5'-AMP.
Chemical Properties Estimation

This article addresses the estimation of chemical properties that determine the environmental behavior of agrochemicals and ultimately the exposure of humans and other organisms to these substances. Chemical properties frequently used in environmental assessment include melting temperature, boiling temperature, vapor pressure, n-octanol/water partition coefficient, water solubility, acid or base dissociation constant, Henry's Law, and bioconcentration/bioaccumulation factor for aquatic organisms. Also, bioaccumulation from air to vegetation and sorption to aerosols are emerging as important determinants of environmental fate. Keywords: chemical properties; melting temperature; boiling temperature; vapor pressure; n-octanol/water partition coefficient; water solubility; Henry's Law constant; acid dissociation constant; vegetation/air partition coefficient; soil/sediment sorption coefficient; bioconcentration/bioaccumulation
Antiphase switching in globally coupled nonlinear arrays

The goal of this paper is to show how to switch from one anti-phase state to another. The method is directly applicable to real experiments of globally coupled laser oscillators, such as microchip multimode lasers.
Designing patchy particles for optimum interfacial activity

We study the adsorption of spherical patchy particles to a flat oil–water interface for their potential applications as interface stabilizers. Chemical heterogeneity in form of single and double patches of different sizes is introduced on the surface of a homogeneous particle to induce an amphiphilic character. For a single well-defined patch, we have developed theoretical criteria for designing particles with the maximum degree of surface activity based on any given wettability conditions. We also evaluate the interfacial behavior of spherical particles with two symmetric patches. Depending on the amphiphilicity and size of the patches, our numerical calculations indicate that such particles at equilibrium can orient so their patches are either parallel or normal to the interface. In case of normal-patch orientation, the interface deforms due to heterogeneity along the contact line, leading to quadrupolar capillary interactions between neighboring particles. We demonstrate that the double-patch design can enhance the surface activity for contact angles close to 90°, while a single-patch pattern is preferred in case of highly amphiphilic particles.
Selective increase in brain dopamine metabolism during REM sleep rebound in the rat.

Abstract Rats implanted with electrodes for EEG and EMG recording were placed on small or large platforms for either 24 or 96 hr and the effects on the subsequent REM sleep rebound were observed. Only the 96 hr protocol produced a selective REM sleep rebound in rats placed on small platforms. Brain MOPEG-SO4, a final metabolite of norepinephrine, was determined fluorometrically and dopamine metabolites HVA and DOPAC, as well as the serotonin metabolite 5-HIAA, were measured by using an HPLC method with electrochemical detection. The results show that selective increases in brain HVA and DOPAC were obtained only during the REM sleep rebound in rats from small platforms. Non-specific increases were observed in MOPEG-SO4 and 5-HIAA during the recovery period in rats from both small and large platforms which could be related to the effects of immobilization stress.
Characterization of acid phosphatase-1 null activity mutants of Drosophila melanogaster.

A complementation analysis was performed on 15 Acph-1n alleles. Only three of these alleles proved to be nonleaky and to exhibit no evidence of complementation. These were then tested immunologically to determine their level of antigenically cross-reacting material (CRM). Their CRM levels were virtually zero, as compared to low, but positive, levels for two other homozygous Acph-1n mutants and considerably higher levels for heteroallelic combinations of some of the leaky alleles. Acid phosphatase-1 enzyme subunits, formed by dissociating native enzyme, have close to 100% CRM activity in tests with antibodies elicited by native enzyme.
The effect of fuel volatility on sprays from high-pressure swirl injectors

The effect of fuel volatility on the spray distribution of a pressure-swirl atomizer of the type used in direct-injection gasoline engines was investigated in a firing optical engine. Planar laser-induced fluorescence (PLIF) and planar Mie scattering were used to visualize the fuel spray. Experiments were performed at three loads (0.3, 0.6, and 0.9 bar intake pressure) and two head temperatures (30 °C and 90 °C). Fuel mixtures consisted of doped and undoped isooctane and indolene. Dopants were ketones of varied volatility: acetone (Tb=56°C), 2-butanone (Tb=80°C), and 3-pentanone (Tb=102°C). At high head temperature and low pressure with volatile, fuel species, the spray characteristics changed from the hollow-cone structure observed under cold conditions to a solid-cone distribution. This transition was observed with both the PLIF and Mie-scattering images, suggesting that not only vapor was being drawn to the interior of the cone, but droplets as well. The observed solid-cone structure can be explained by flash boiling of the highly volatile species, followed by entrainment of the smaller droplets into the cone center by the airflow induced by the spray. The observed transition temperatures and pressures agree well with bubble-point calculations and suggest that a superheat of about 20 K is necessary for flash boiling to be vigorous enough to noticeably affect the spray structure. Similar results were obtained with a full-boiling-range gasoline.
Turbulent Gas Jet Flames in Cross-Flow at Low Momentum Flux Ratios

An experimental study of the stability and structure of a propane gas jet flame in cross-flow at a low jet to cross-flow momentum flux ratio (0.024) is presented. The flame structure is characterized by two distinct zones. A two-dimensional flow recirculation zone attached to the burner tube in its wake forms the first zone. An axisymmetric flow follows the first zone downstream. The junction of the two zones is characterized by an intense mixing of jet and cross-flow streams. This paper deals with the structure of the first zone. The temperature and concentration profiles show that the physico-chemical processes and combustion in that zone are diffusion controlled.Copyright © 1994 by ASME
Properties of flow and pressure over Georges Bank as observed with near‐surface drifters

[1] During the 1995–1999 Northwest Atlantic GLOBEC project, 203 drifters drogued at nominally 10 m were deployed on or near Georges Bank. The objectives of the deployments were to characterize flow patterns and residence time properties. During all seasons, there was a tendency for clockwise flow around the bank, and this flow, along with the residence time, increased during the summer. Residence times ranged from typically 40 days during the winter to 90 days during the summer. The seasonal change in mean flow implies a role for processes beyond simple barotropic tidal rectification to be important in the dynamics. Regional subtidal frequency pressure patterns (estimated using the drifter data) dominate the sea level variability, but they play less of a role in the subtidal current variability. Instead, current variations seem to be more dominated by shorter-scale patterns and (during winter) by flow associated with the surface Ekman layer. At 10 m depth, net current variability does not change much on a seasonal basis. A few events with particularly good drifter coverage are used to illustrate the effects of a Warm Core Ring south of the bank, and of strong winter and spring storms.
Right ventricular myocardial infarction with anterior wall left ventricular infarction: an autopsy study.

Abstract Right ventricular myocardial infarction has been reported to occur exclusively in association with inferlor left ventricular infarction. To determine the frequency of right ventricular myocardial infarction in association with anterior left ventricular myocardial infarction, all hearts with anterior myocardial infarction studied over a 3-year period were examined for evidence of right ventricular necrosis or scar. Of 97 hearts with anterior myocardial infarction, 13 (13%) had anterior right ventricular myocardial infarction. The right ventricular infarcts involved from 10% to 50% (mean 28%) of the circumference of the right ventricular free wall from base to apex. The associated left ventricular infarcts were all anteroseptal and large and involved from 36% to 67% (mean 50%) of the total area of the left ventricular free wall and septum. Nine of the 13 patients underwent equillbrium radionuclide angiography and six had demonstrable right ventricular regional and global dysfunction. Thus, right ventricular myocardial infarction does occur with anterior wall left ventricular infarction, and right ventricular dysfunction may be demonstrable by radionuclide angiography. Further investigation is needed to define the hemodynamic characteristics, clinical importance, and therapeutic implications of anterior right ventricular myocardial infarction.
Mechanistic Study of the ZEA Organic Pollutant Degradation System: Evidence for H2O2, HO•, and the Homogeneous Activation of O2 by FeIIEDTA

The ZEA (zero valent iron, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), and air) organic pollutant degradation system has been previously shown to degrade a variety of organic pollutants and chemical warfare agent surrogates; however, mechanistic details and reactive intermediates formed in this system have not been identified. It is hypothesized that the ZEA system produces reactive oxygen species (H2O2, HO•) by the reduction of oxygen by FeIIEDTA(aq). This hypothesis is examined through an electrochemical model of the ZEA system. A carbon basket electrode is used as the reducing agent in place of Fe(0). The FeIIIEDTA complex (0.5 mM) is electrochemically reduced to FeIIEDTA at an applied potential of −120 mV (vs Ag/AgCl) under aerobic conditions. Hydrogen peroxide was observed to form in the presence of the metal complex with a maximum concentration reaching 0.139 mM H2O2 after 3 h of electrolysis. In the absence of FeEDTA, 0.04 mM H2O2 is obtained by the direct reduction of O2 at the electrode surface. Elec...
Rational approximation on infinite intervals

Abstract We describe some approximation properties of polynomials of degree at most 2 n withweight (1 + χ 2 ) −n on the real line and of polynomials of degree at most n with weight (1 + t ) −n on the interval [0, ∞). This article is intended to summarize the results of a systematic investigation; most of the results have very recently appeared elsewhere, or will soon appear.
Too Many People? The Myth of Excess Population

The author critically examines "the myth of [global] overpopulation and argues that population growth can be better regulated by individual decision rather than state control." (EXCERPT)
Logotherapy as a bridge between religion and psychotherapy.

13. Professor Jack Van Hooser of Seabury-Western Theological Seminary's Department of Old Testament Literature and Languages is currently preparing a critique of Freud's Moses and Monotheism for an article we are writing together. 14. Zimet, C. N., "The Masters Degree in Applied Psychology: An Issue That Will Not Go Away," The Psychotherapy Bulletin, 1976, 9 (4), 3. 15. There are presently over 250 Clinical Pastoral Education centers that provide pastoral train ing for ministers, seminary students, and other religious workers. They are located in psychiatric and general hospitals, penal and correctional institutions, juvenile treatment centers, parishes and intercity missions, community mental health centers, counseling and rehabilitation centers, children's homes, and centers for the aging. Further information may be secured from the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education, Inc., c/o Interchurch Center, Suite 450, 475 Riverside Drive, New York, New York 10027. 16. By "intermodal" I mean individual, shortand long-term psychotherapy, conjoint marital and/or divorce counseling, as well as group psychotherapy, and crisis intervention. 17. Kohut, H., The Restoration of the Self. New York, International Universities Press, 1977, p. 271. 18. In an unpublished paper Kohut makes a similar comment about another award-winning film. His focus is false sexuality, a characteristic so evident in Saturday Night Fever:
Measuring Marbles: Demonstrating the Basic Tenets of Measurement Theory

Summary A hands-on activity is described in which students attempt to measure something that they cannot see. In small groups, students estimate the number of marbles in sealed boxes. Next, students’ estimates are compared with the actual numbers. Last, values from both the students’ estimates and actual numbers are used to explain measurement theory and reliability.
Experimental estimates of peak skin dose and its relationship to the CT dose index using the CTDI head phantom.

A straightforward method is presented to estimate peak skin doses (PSDs) delivered by computed tomography (CT) scanners. The measured PSD values are related to the well-known volume CT dose index (CTDIvol), displayed on the console of CT scanners. PSD measurement estimates were obtained, in four CT units, by placing radiochromic film on the surface of a CTDI head phantom. Six different X-ray tube currents including the maximum allowed value were used to irradiate the phantom. PSD and CTDIvol were independently measured and later related to the CTDIvol value displayed on the console. A scanner-specific relationship was found between the measured PSD and the associated CTDIvol displayed on the console. The measured PSD values varied between 27 and 136 mGy among all scanners when the routine head scan parameters were used. The results of this work allow relating the widely used CTDIvol to an actual radiation dose delivered to the skin of a patient.
In Praise of Managerial Narrow-Mindedness

Dunbar, Garud, and Raghuram (this issue) claim that managers must discredit their interpretive frames when these beliefs no longer match environmental circumstances. Extending this argument, they conclude that business schools should teach deframing skills to help managers periodically destroy old beliefs and create new ones. In contrast, we argue that managerial frames are neither accurate nor inaccurate and that a frame's fit with the external environment is largely irrelevant. Instead, we suggest that a firm's success is a function of its ability to impose frames on the environment and that consistency of purpose and a focused mindset are the keys to competitive advantage. Finally, we suggest that business education's primary task is to teach managers how to develop strategies that are based upon their firm's unique skills and to pursue these strategies relentlessly.
Rifamycin Derivatives Are Effective Against Staphylococcal Biofilms In Vitro and Elutable From PMMA

Background Local antimicrobial delivery through polymethylmethacrylate beads (PMMA), commonly vancomycin, is used for the treatment of contaminated open fractures but has limited activity against Staphylococcus aureus biofilms, which occur commonly in such fractures. Rifamycins have activity against biofilms and are an effective treatment for osteoarticular infections involving staphylococcal biofilms, but there are limited studies evaluating the activity of rifamycin derivatives, other than rifampin, against biofilms of S. aureus and evaluating incorporation of these drugs into PMMA for treatment of contaminated open fractures.
Calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus: emergency department testing yield.

Objectives To investigate how often the ED ordering of stat serum calcium (Ca+2), magnesium (Mg+2), and phosphorus (PO4(-3)) levels affected clinical treatment; to define the diagnoses of patients for whom Ca+2, Mg+2, and PO4(-3) measurements did affect clinical therapy; and to suggest guidelines for more appropriate ordering of these laboratory tests. Methods A retrospective chart review was performed in an academic teaching hospital. All adult ED patients who had Ca+2, Mg+2, or PO4(-3) laboratory testing during the 9-month study period were included and evaluated for potential clinical impact of an abnormal Ca+2, Mg+2, or PO4(-3) laboratory test. Results 1.477 patients had Ca+2, Mg+2, or PO4(-3) measured while in the ED during the study period. Of these, 260 patients (17.6%) had a total of 312 abnormal Ca+2, Mg+2, or PO4(-3) values as defined by results exceeding +/- 15% of normal reference values. Of these, only 5 patients (0.3%) received treatment for abnormal values in the ED, while 75 patients (5.1%) were treated once admitted to the hospital. In this study, the only diagnostic groups to whom significant treatment was administered were diabetic patients (Ca+2 and PO4(-3); alcoholic patients (Mg+2); and renal failure patients (Ca+2, Mg+2, and PO4(-3). Conclusion These results suggest that stat Ca+2, Mg+2, and PO4(-3) levels seldom affect clinical treatment in the ED. The frequency of ordering these tests may be reduced by obtaining Ca+2, Mg+2, or PO4(-3) measurements only for patients known to be at risk for such abnormalities, based on their existing or suspected diagnoses. The authors suggest obtaining these tests, when indicated, on a "non-stat" basis, with the subsequent laboratory results becoming available in-hospital, where treatment is more likely to occur.
OSHA's interest in chemical plant safety

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has been required by the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 to promulgate a process safety management (PSM) standard for the prevention of catastrophic incidents and to protect the safety and health of employees in the covered plants. The law requires the OSHA standard to cover at least 14 areas or issues and to cover highly hazardous chemicals which include toxic, flammable, highly reactive and explosive substances. The paper will describe in detail how OSHA has responded to this statute and what we have accomplished in the rulemaking effort. Also the interface with other relevant OSHA standards, including the Hazard Communication standard, the Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response standard, the Control of Hazardous Energy Sources (Lockout/Tagout) standard, and others will be discussed. In addition other recent laws that relate to and impact the OSHA PSM standard such as the Hazardous Materials Transportation Uniform Safety Act of 1990, the Oil Pollution Act of 1990, and the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act (SARA) of 1986, will be explained as to their relationship to PSM. The emergency preparedness efforts required of employers under PSM and the relationship to SARA Title III efforts by local community emergency response organization will be covered, as well as the interface with the EPA Risk Management Program initiative that EPA must do under the Clean Air Act Amendments.
Stress Tolerance of Bed Bugs: A Review of Factors That Cause Trauma to Cimex lectularius and C. Hemipterus

Recent emergence of bed bugs (Cimex spp.) has prompted a significant expansion of research devoted to this pest. The ability to survive and recover from stress has significant implications on the distribution and survival of insects, and bed bugs are no exception. Research on bed bug stress tolerance has shown considerable progress and necessitates a review on this topic. Bed bugs have an extraordinary ability to resist dehydration between bloodmeals, and this represents a critical factor allowing their prolonged survival when no host is available. High relative humidities are detrimental to bed bugs, leading to reduced survival in comparison to those held at lower relative humidities. Continual exposure of bed bugs, eggs and mobile stages, to temperatures below freezing and short term exposure (=1 h) to temperatures below −16 to −18 °C results in mortality. The upper thermal limit for short term exposure of eggs, nymphs and adults is between 40–45 °C for the common (Cimex lectularius) and tropical (C. hemipterus) bed bugs. Long-term exposure to temperatures above 35 °C results in significant reduction in survival of mobile bed bugs. Eggs for C. lectularius and C. hemipterus are no longer viable when held below 10 °C or above 37 °C throughout embryogenesis. Blood feeding, although necessary for survival and reproduction, is discussed as a stress due to thermal and osmotic fluctuations that result from ingesting a warm bloodmeal from a vertebrate host. Cold, heat, water stress and blood feeding prompted the expression of heat shock proteins (Hsps). Pesticide application is a common human-induced stress for urban pests, and recent studies have documented pesticide resistance in many bed bug populations. High levels of traumatic insemination (mating) of bed bugs has been linked to reduced survival and fecundity along with possibly exposing individuals to microbial infections after cuticular penetration by the paramere (=male reproductive organ), thus represents a form of sexual stress. Additionally, less common stress types such as microbial infections that have been documented in bed bugs will be discussed. Overall, this review provides a current update of research related to bed bug stress tolerance and how their ability to resist stressful conditions has lead to their expansion and proliferation.
The maternalist moment in British colonial policy: the controversy over "child slavery" in Hong Kong 1917-1941.

A partir de l'examen de la controverse sur l'esclavage des enfants - et notamment l'esclavage domestique des jeunes filles chinoises - a Hong Kong sous l'administration coloniale britannique (entre 1917 et 1941), l'A. tente de montrer en quoi cette polemique autour du systeme mui tsai est revelatrice des changements d'ideaux et de pratiques de gouvernance dans les colonies britanniques dans le contexte de l'emergence de la doctrine du trusteeship. Selon l'A., cette controverse revele non seulement l'implication des reformateurs dans la revision des positions officielles, mais egalement la participation essentielle de l'activisme feminin dans ce processus, et plus particulierement du mouvement maternaliste. A partir des annees trente, le maternalisme, sous la forme d'une politique sociale a l'egard des femmes et des enfants, est devenu la composante feminine de l'ideologie du trusteeship, apres que le mouvement feministe ait su mobiliser notamment le soutien de la gauche politique, de la Ligue des Nations et du mouvement anti-esclavagiste.
Differences in Emission Spectra of Dislocations in 4H-SiC Epitaxial Layers

Material defects such as Si-core and C-core partial dislocations (PDs) and threading screw dislocations (TSDs) and threading edge dislocations (TEDs) are being investigated for their contributions to device performances in 4H-SiC. Non-destructive electroluminescence and photoluminescence techniques can be powerful tools for examining these dislocations. In this report, these techniques were used to reveal the different spectral characteristics for the mentioned dislocations. At higher injection levels, both the Si-core and C-core PDs possessed a spectral peak at 700 nm. However, at lower injection levels, the spectral peak for the Si-core PD remained at 700 nm while the peak for the C-core moved to longer wavelengths. For the threading dislocations, TSDs possessed a peak between 800 and 850 nm while the TEDs possessed a peak at 600 nm independent of the injection levels.
Effect of pioglitazone on insulin sensitivity, vascular function and cardiovascular inflammatory markers in insulin-resistant non-diabetic Asian Indians.

AIMS To determine the effects of pioglitazone (30 mg once daily for 16 weeks) on insulin sensitivity, insulin-mediated vasodilation, vascular inflammatory markers, fat distribution and lipids in Asian Indians and Caucasians of European ancestry. METHODS Cross-sectional study. Eighteen non-diabetic Asian Indians and 17 Caucasians of comparable age (34 +/- 3 vs. 36 +/- 3 years) and body mass index (26.0 +/- 1.2 vs. 24.7 +/- 1.0 kg/m(2)) had measurements of insulin sensitivity (M, insulin clamp at 6 pmol/kg per min), abdominal fat (computed tomographic scan at L4-L5), endothelial-dependent (reactive hyperaemia, RH) and -independent (0.4 mg sublingual nitroglycerin, TNG) vasodilation using brachial artery ultrasound before and after the 2-h clamp at baseline and after pioglitazone therapy. RESULTS Asian Indians were insulin resistant compared with Causasians during the baseline clamp (M = 25.6 +/- 1.7 vs. 41.1 +/- 2.2 micromol/kg per min, P < 0.0001) and improved significantly after pioglitazone (to 33.9 +/- 1.7 micromol/kg per min, P < 0.001). Vasodilatory responses to RH and TNG were similar in Asian Indians and Caucasians at baseline and did not change. Insulin-mediated vasodilation improved after pioglitazone in Asian Indians, but not in Caucasians, and correlated with the change in insulin sensitivity (r = 0.52, P = 0.03). C-reactive protein (CRP) was higher in Asian Indians vs. Caucasians (1.6 +/- 0.4 vs. 0.9 +/- 0.2 mg/l) and was negatively correlated with insulin sensitivity (r = -0.53, P = 0.02). In the Asian Indian group, CRP and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 decreased and adiponectin increased after pioglitazone, but there were no significant changes in total or visceral fat. CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate that insulin-resistant Asian Indians respond favourably to an insulin sensitizer with improvements in insulin sensitivity, cardiovascular and inflammatory risk markers, and vascular responses to insulin. These agents may have a role in decreasing the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease in this high-risk population.
Radical Islamic Militancy and Acts of Terrorism: A Quality-of-Life Analysis

Horrific acts of terrorism have emerged as defining features of Islamic–Western relations throughout much of this still young century. Arising from decades, indeed centuries, of mutual distrust contemporary patterns of radicalized Islamic terrorism toward the West are rooted in their shared histories, traditions, values, norms and, for some, deeply held religious convictions. They also are the product of centuries-long colonization of large regions of the “Islamic world” by Western powers or their proxies. This paper presents an innovative approach for advancing the quality of life of Islamic and Western societies through a fuller understanding of the origins and dynamics of Islamic-inspired terrorist acts against the West. The paper examines the relationship that exists between acts of terrorism associated with a select group of 27 member states of the Organization for Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and: (1) their years of independence since colonization; (2) their current types of polity; (3) the extent of their civil liberties and political freedoms; (4) country levels of perceived public corruption; and (5) the overall level of each country’s broad-based social development (or quality of life). The paper concludes with an “evolving agenda for action” that seeks to advance the quality of life of all people living in Islamic and Western nations.
World Cup 2014: festival of football or alcohol?

Whichever country hoists aloft the World Cup trophy on 13 July, the real winner will be the alcohol industry, finds Jonathan Gornall
Changes in ion channel expression accompany cell cycle progression of spinal cord astrocytes.

Arrest of spinal cord astrocytes at defined stages of the cell cycle clock causes significant changes in the expression of voltage-activated Na+ and K+ currents. Arrest of actively proliferating astrocytes in G1/G0 by all-trans-retinoic acid induces premature expression of inwardly rectifying K+ currents (IKIR) typically expressed only in differentiated astrocytes. By contrast, arrest in S phase by ara-C or Aphidicolin leads to a greater than twofold increase in “delayed” outwardly rectifying currents (IKD) and a concomitant decrease in IKIR. Pharmacological blockade of IKD by TEA and 4AP caused proliferating astrocytes to arrest in G0/G1, suggesting that activity of these channels is required for G1/S checkpoint progression. Conversely, in quiescent astrocytes, inhibition of IKIR by 30 μM BaCl2 led to an increase in astrocyte proliferation and to an increase in the number of cells in S phase from 5% to 26%. These data suggest that a downregulation of KIR promotes cell cycle progression through the G1/S checkpoint. Blockade of IKIR in actively proliferating cells, however, leads to an accumulation in G2/M, suggesting that reappearance of this current may be critical for progression beyond DNA synthesis. Interestingly, Na+ currents (INa+) are increased greater than fourfold in S phase-arrested cells, yet their pharmacological blockade by TTX has no effect on cell cycle progression. However, the resting membrane potential of S phase-arrested cells increases profoundly, and manipulation of membrane potential by the application of low concentrations of ouabain, or reduction of extracellular potassium, induces the accumulation of quiescent astrocytes in S phase of the cell cycle, suggesting that either depolarization or intracellular sodium, or both, play an important role in promoting astrocyte proliferation. GLIA 30:39–48, 2000. © 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Pregnancy and birth risk factors for intellectual disability in South Australia.

It is generally accepted that developmental handicaps can often be minimized through early detection and intervention. For this reason, it is normal practice in many hospitals to follow-up and screen infants who present at birth with established risk factors. Clinical judgement will always be important when selecting children for follow-up. However, as hospital data systems improve, automated systems could be developed for listing children potentially “at risk”. Where initial clinical decisions not to follow-up individual children prove to be at odds with this automated output, the individual child could be re-assessed clinically. This process could increase the level of quality control. An initial risk-factor model for intellectual disability has been developed, based on the South Australian Perinatal Statistics Collection, for use in this context.
Collection and Thermal Evolution Behaviors of Different Mercury Species Captured with Gold

The effects of temperature on the collection and evolution of different mercury (Hg) species captured with gold were investigated to help determine if temperature control could be used to provide Hg speciation information in gaseous effluents. Elemental mercury, dimethyl mercury, and mercuric chloride were loaded onto a gold trap (one Hg species per test) at temperatures of 25--375 C. The Hg was then evolved (in argon) at 900 C. In other tests, Hg was loaded onto the trap at 25 C and then heated (in argon) at 50--1,000 C to release Hg. The argon streams were analyzed using cold vapor atomic fluorescence to obtain information on Hg collection and evolution as a function of temperature. The Hg was released from the gold entirely as elemental mercury, regardless of the Hg species collected. Temperatures of about 250 C were required to release the Hg, and there were no differences among Hg species with respect to the temperatures necessary to evolve the Hg. Results of the tests on Hg collection efficiency versus the temperature of the gold trap indicated that proper selection of the collection temperature could potentially be used to provide Hg speciation information. However, refinements in the technique are necessarymore » before it can be put into practical use.« less
Expression of cell cycle regulators p57KIP2, cyclin D1, and cyclin E in epithelial ovarian tumors and survival*

Abstract The search for new prognostic indicators is especially important in the diagnosis and treatment of ovarian cancer because clinicopathologic criteria currently used to predict survival are largely inadequate. We examined 2 groups of patients with epithelial ovarian cancer, 1 group of long-term survivors (>5 years), and 1 group of short-term survivors ( KIP2 , cyclin D1, and cyclin E and their relationship with survival. Our findings show that p57 KIP2 is not associated with prognosis, in contrast to p27 KIP1 expression, which is previously shown to be positively associated with long-term survival in univariate analysis ( P = .001). Cyclin E expression, in contrast to cyclin D1 expression, is marginally associated with short-term survival in univariate analysis for a group of 53 women. Among the short-term survivors, 15 (65%) of 23 were positive for cyclin E expression, compared with only 11 (37%) of 30 long-term survivors ( P = 0.054). This association remained significant ( P = .04) in a logistic regression analysis adjusted simultaneously for performance status and extent of residual disease, the 2 strongest predictors of survival in our study. We also found a significant difference in the frequency of the cyclin E staining pattern between nonserous and serous ovarian tumor subtypes ( P = .0002). Immunostaining for levels of cyclin E and p27 KIP1 expression may have potential as prognostic markers in the management of ovarian cancer. HUM PATHOL 32:808-813. Copyright © 2001 by W.B. Saunders Company
Average marginal tax rates revisited

Abstract I revise and update through 1994 the estimated average marginal income and Social Security tax rates of Seater (1982) [Marginal federal personal and corporate income tax rates in the US, 1909–1975. Journal of Monetary Economics, 10, 361–381], Seater (1985) [On the construction of marginal federal personal and social security tax rates in the US. Journal of Monetary Economics, 15, 121–135] and Barro and Sahasakul (1983) [Measuring the average marginal tax rate from the individual income tax. Journal of Business, 56, 419–452] and Barro and Sahasakul (1986) [Average marginal tax rates on social security and the individual income tax. Journal of Business, 59, 555–566], and I introduce a return-weighted Social Security tax rate. Since 1981, the average marginal effective income tax rate has declined from about 16% to 12%; however, the combined federal tax burden remains high by historic standards because the average marginal Social Security tax rate has increased from about 5% to about 6.5%.
MODELING OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL CAMERA IMAGING IN A TOKAMAK TORUS

A procedure is described for precision modeling of the views for imaging diagnostics monitoring tokamak internal components, particularly high heat flux divertor components. Such modeling is required to enable predictions of resolution and viewing angle for the available viewing locations. Since oblique views are typically expected for tokamak divertors, fully three-dimensional (3D) perspective imaging is required. A suite of matched 3D CAD, graphics and animation applications are used to provide a fast and flexible technique for reproducing these views. An analytic calculation of the resolution and viewing incidence angle is developed to validate the results of the modeling procedures. The tokamak physics experiment (TPX) diagnostics1 for infrared viewing are used as an example to demonstrate the implementation of the tools. As is generally the case in tokamak experiments, the available diagnostic locations for TPX are severely constrained by access limitations and the resulting images can be marginal in...
Epidemiology, management, and outcomes of sustained ventricular arrhythmias after continuous-flow left ventricular assist device implantation.

Background Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) are pivotal treatment options for patients with end-stage heart failure. Despite robust left ventricular unloading, the right ventricle remains unsupported and susceptible to hemodynamic perturbations from ventricular arrhythmias (VAs). Little is known about the epidemiology, management, resource use, and outcomes of sustained VAs in continuous-flow LVAD patients. Methods We reviewed data from all consecutive patients receiving a continuous-flow LVAD at the University of North Carolina from January 2006 to February 2011. Patient demographics, pharmacotherapies, resource use, and outcomes were recorded. Descriptive statistics were generated, and multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the independent association of clinical variables on the development of postimplantation VAs. Results Of 61 patients, 26 (43%) had sustained VAs after LVAD. Most were male (65%), had history of hypertension (65%), and had nonischemic cardiomyopathy (62%). Patients with VAs after LVAD more often had preimplant VAs (62% vs 14%, P P = .04), and history of implantable cardioverter-defibrillator discharge (38% vs 11%, P P Conclusions Ventricular arrhythmias in LVAD patients are common, often refractory to conservative therapy, and associated with frequent rehospitalization. Post-LVAD VAs, however, did not significantly impact survival or transplantation rates. Arrhythmia burden should be considered before LVAD placement, and future study should focus on the impact of VAs on quality of life.