An orthonormalization procedure for multivariable function approximation

Where a function of several variables is given numerically in tabular form, an orthonormalization technique allows an approximation of the numerical data to be determined in a convenient functional form. In this technique, the speed and accuracy of coefficient computation are much improved

Primitive Divisors in Arithmetic Dynamics

Let F(z) be a rational function in Q(z) of degree at least 2 with F(0) = 0 and such that F does not vanish to order d at 0. Let b be a rational number having infinite orbit under iteration of F, and write F^n(b) = A_n/B_n as a fraction in lowest terms. We prove that for all but finitely many n > 0, the numerator A_n has a primitive divisor, i.e., there is a prime p such that p divides A_n and p does not divide A_i for all i < n. More generally, we prove an analogous result when F is defined over a number field and 0 is a periodic point for F.Comment: Version 2 is substantial revision. The proof of the main theorem has been simplified and strengthened. (16 pages

Rapid, solid-phase based automated analysis of chromatin structure and transcription factor occupancy in living eukaryotic cells

Transcription factors, chromatin components and chromatin modification activities are involved in many diseases including cancer. However, the means by which alterations in these factors influence the epigenotype of specific cell types is poorly understood. One problem that limits progress is that regulatory regions of eukaryotic genes sometimes extend over large regions of DNA. To improve chromatin structure–function analysis over such large regions, we have developed an automated, relatively simple procedure that uses magnetic beads and a capillary sequencer for ligation-mediated-PCR (LM-PCR). We show that the procedure can be used for the rapid examination of chromatin fine-structure, nucleosome positioning as well as changes in transcription factor binding-site occupancy during cellular differentiation

Assessing Patterns of Social Engagement in Typically Developing Children, Children with Mental Retardation, and Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder Using a Standardized Playground Observation Checklist

Prior research in the area of play in children suggests that children\u27s interactions with one another can predict their social competence, their social skill development, and their ability to establish and maintain social relationships. However, most prior research has been carried out in contrived playgroups under adult direction or supervision; few studies have been carried out in naturalistic settings without adult interference. This retrospective, predictive study reviewed archival data to assess similarities and differences in playground interactions between typical children, children with mental retardation, and children with autism spectrum disorder. The study introduced a structured playground observation checklist in order to standardize playground behavior observations. Three groups of children identified as: typical (N=37), children with mental retardation (N=24), and children with autism spectrum disorder (N=20) were studied to determine similarities and differences in social competence and to assess the utility of the playground behavior checklist as part of a comprehensive assessment of autism spectrum disorder. As predicted, the use of a structured playground observation checklist accurately identified differences between and among the three groups studied

Weight changes following lower limb arthroplasty : a prospective observational study

The aim of this study was to assess patterns of weight loss/gain following total hip or knee joint replacement. Four hundred and fifty primary lower limb arthroplasty patients, where the current surgery was the last limiting factor to improved mobility, were selected. Over a one year period 212 gained weight (mean 5.03kg), 92 remained static, and 146 lost weight. The median change was a weight gain of 0.50Kg (p=0.002). All patients had a significant improvement in Oxford outcome scores. Hip arthroplasty patients were statistically more likely to gain weight than knee arthroplasty patients. A successful arthroplasty, restoring a patient's mobility, does not necessarily lead to subsequent weight loss. The majority of patients put on weight with an overall net weight gain. No adverse effect on functional outcome was noted

An Analysis of Dairy Farm Financial Efficiency and Price Expectations in Seedstock Bull Markets

The first thesis chapter employs two single-stage data envelopment analysis (DEA) models under varying returns to scale assumptions to provide technical efficiency estimates for 26 dairy farms in Tennessee, Kentucky, and North Carolina participating in the UT Dairy Gauge program. These analyses reveal how efficiently farms utilize inputs (cows, feed, labor, forage) to generate farm income relative to other sample farms. Under the assumption of constant returns to scale (CRS) 7 farms are estimated to be technically efficient, while 13 farms display comparative efficiency under an assumption of variable returns to scale (VRS). No significant difference existed between dairy farms in Tennessee relative to farms in neighboring states. This study advances the literature on dairy farm efficiency as the first of its kind to utilize DEA in the analysis of Southeast region dairy farms in the US. The second thesis chapter investigates optimism bias in bull price expectations using incentivized lab-in-the-field experiments with Alabama and Tennessee cattle producers. Price prediction tasks based on past market transactions for 18 bulls from the Angus, Charolais, and Simmental breeds are utilized for this analysis. The tasks provide EPDs to facilitate accurate price expectations and reduce uncertainties stemming from bull characteristics. The results reveal that the EPD information provision prevents optimism bias from contaminating price expectations in the whole sample. However, the study also determines that, unlike buyers, sellers are prone to unrealistic optimistic expectations and show reduced accuracy prediction levels. These results reveal that optimism bias can be moderated by the type of EPD information utilized, breed characteristics, and regional differences in cattle operations. This chapter contributes to the literature by documenting the role of behavioral biases in the formation of cattle price expectations and suggesting potential channels that transmit this effect to real cattle operations

A Portait of Three Elementary Music Teachers: Their Classrooms and Self-Perceptions

This study explores the self-perceptions of three elementary music teachers. The areas discussed include musical and educational backgrounds, self-perceptions of teaching, and composing and performing activities. Research pi\u27oviding such an in-depth look at individual elementary music teachers has not been done in the past. Tlie data was gathered through classroom observation and individual interviews of the three teachers to discuss the various aspects of teaching. Each teacher was observed on three separate occasions, at one week intervals, teaching the same three half-hour classes each day. The observations wore made prior to the interview session in order to provide a context for the topics discussed during the Interview. Each teacher was interviewed for three to four hours, regarding musical memories, educational background, teaching experiences, .and personal and professional composing and performing experiences. The study resulted in individual portraits of the three teachers. Commonalities and uniquenesses among the three teachers were noted. Recommendations that emerged from the study suggest that the teacher preparation program for elementary music teachers include composing for children, dealing with a variety of student behaviors in the classroom, and discussing the variety of roles a music teacher must assume. Additional recommendations include reexamining the reality of the expectations placed upon elementary music teachers and studying additional music educators to provide further insight into teacher’s self-perceptions and the use of compositional and performing skills in the elementary’ classroom

Differential correction and preliminary orbit determination for lunar satellite orbits

Differential correction and preliminary orbit calculation for lunar satellite orbit