bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Pattern Occurrence in the Dyadic Expansion of Square Root of Two and an Analysis of Pseudorandom Number Generators
Authors: Nuida Koji 
Published: March 2010

AbstractRecently, designs of pseudorandom number generators (PRNGs) using integer-valued variants of logistic maps and their applications to certain cryptographic schemes have been studied, due mostly to their ease of implementation and performance. However, it has been noted that this ease is reduced for some choices of the PRNGs accuracy parameters. In this article, we show that the distribution of such undesirable accuracy parameters is closely related to the occurrence of some patterns in the dyadic expansion of the square root of 2. We prove that for an arbitrary infinite binary word, the asymptotic occurrence rate of these patterns is bounded in terms of the asymptotic occurrence rate of zeroes. As a consequence, a classical conjecture on asymptotic evenness of occurrence of zeroes and ones in the dyadic expansion of the square root of 2 implies that the asymptotic rate of the undesirable accuracy parameters for the PRNGs is at least 1/6.
Freedom as Satisfaction? A Critique of Frankfurt's Hierarchical Theory of Freedom
Authors: Rostbøll Christian F. 
Published: March 2010

Abstract
This article is a critical assessment of Harry Frankfurt's hierarchical theory of freedom. It spells out and distinguishes several different and irreconcilable conceptions of freedom present in Frankfurt's work. I argue that Frankfurt is ambiguous in his early formulation as to what conception of freedom of the will the hierarchical theory builds on, an avoidability or a satisfaction conception. This ambiguity causes problems in his later attempts to respond to the objections of wantonness of second-order desires and of infinite regress. With his more recent idea of freedom as being satisfied with harmony in one's entire volitional system, Frankfurt may solve the infinite regress objection but he does so at the cost of ending up with a description of freedom, which comes very close to being identical to his own description of the wanton. Frankfurt's account leaves open the question of whether the satisfactory harmony is caused by the inability to do otherwise, or is independent of it. To answer this question, Frankfurt's hierarchical theory needs to be complemented with a number of “autonomy variables” (Double). Satisfaction may be a necessary condition of freedom, but it is not sufficient. We also need to know how the person came to be satisfied. If being satisfied is merely something that happens to one, it fails to be an adequate description of a free person – and it also contradicts some of Frankfurt's own earlier insights.
Effect of the HVOF Deposition Process in the Chemical Composition of Tungsten Carbide Layers with Cobalt or Nickel Binders
Authors: Casteletti Luiz Carlos , Arnoni Eduardo Augusto Brefere , Fernandes Frederico Augusto Pires , Neto Amadeu Lombardi , Totten George Edward 
Published: March 2010

Abstract
The production of hardened surfaces on components to increase the wear resistance is a persistent technological challenge in the surfaces engineering. High velocity oxygen fuel (HVOF) thermal spray process is used to produce coatings of high wear and/or corrosion resistance. Tungsten carbide with metallic binder is often used for this purpose. In this work, coatings of tungsten carbide with cobalt or nickel binder were produced by HVOF, process and characterized by optical and electron microscopy (SEM) tests, hardness and density tests, and X-ray diffraction analysis to verify the effect of the thermal spray deposition process in the powder used for the coating production. The HVOF process produced dense coatings with low porosity and oxidation levels and high average hardness, about 1100HV. The sprayed layer of WC-12 %Co contains intermetallics of the CoxWyCz type generated during the deposition process. No intermetallic formation was evidenced between the Ni and the WC on WC-10 %Ni layer. The HVOF deposition process did not significantly deteriorate the powders used.
Analysis of Financial Distress Prediction Models
Authors: Lee Li-Tze , Fan Chiang Ku , Hung Hsiang-Wen , Ling Yu-Chun 
Published: March 2010

Abstract
The purpose of this study is to evaluate financial and non-financial variables using the bankruptcy prediction model. Considering Taiwan companies listed between 2001 and 2005, the estimation sample comprises 140 firms (70 failing and 70 non-failing), and the validation sample comprises 52 firms (26 failing and 26 non-failing). In contrast to previous studies, this paper provides a corporate governance index as non-financial variables to predict financial distress along with financial index. Logistic regression is applied to examine these samples for 3 year data prior to business failure. In the estimation sample, the indexes combining both financial and corporate governance indexes gave the most accurate predictions. In the validation sample, the financial variables yielded the most accurate predictions.
Complex relationship between free thyroxine and TSH in the regulation of thyroid function
Authors: Hoermann Rudolf , Eckl Walter , Hoermann Christian , Larisch Rolf 
Published: March 2010

ObjectiveThe present study re-evaluates the inverse log TSH–free thyroxine (fT4) relationship, which has generally been assumed to characterize the thyroid pituitary hypothalamic feedback regulation in thyroid function.Design and MethodsThe correlation between fT4and TSH was analyzed in two data sets from differing time periods involving 3223 and 6605 patients referred for thyroid testing, representing the whole range of thyroid functions from hypothyroidism to hyperthyroidism.ResultsWe found that the data do not support a linear log TSH–fT4relationship; instead, the correlation's gradient varies with thyroid function. As a consequence, an alternate model, based on the error function, was introduced. When directly comparing the models by means of curve fitting, usingF-test and Akaike criteria, the alternate model results in a significantly better fit. The model was verified in the independent second set of data. Subgroup analysis of untreated patients added further proof to the non-linear model.ConclusionsWe propose a refined non-linear model to describe the relationship between TSH and fT4. It implies that TSH response to a deviating fT4value may not be log-linear, but may be disproportionally related to the extent of the deviation from an optimum set point. A better understanding of the complex nature of the TSH–fT4relationship may further the development of more precise clinical models and aid in better defining subclinical states of thyroid dysfunction. Also, it may encourage other biological interrelations to be reconsidered in the wake of advanced measurement techniques and more powerful computerized statistical procedures.
Secretagogue type, sex-steroid milieu, and abdominal visceral adiposity individually determine secretagogue-stimulated cortisol secretion
Authors: Iranmanesh Ali , Bowers Cyril Y , Veldhuis Johannes D 
Published: March 2010

DesignWhile androgens and estrogens control glucocorticoid secretion in animal models, how the sex-steroid milieu determines cortisol secretion in humans is less clear. To address this issue, cortisol was measured in archival sera obtained at 10-min intervals for 5 h in 42 healthy men administered double placebo, placebo and testosterone, testosterone and dutasteride (to block 5α-reductases type I and type II), or testosterone and anastrozole (to block aromatase) in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, prospectively randomized design.MethodsSubjects received i.v. injection of saline, GHRH, GH-releasing peptide-2 (GHRP-2), somatostatin (SS), and GHRP-2/GHRH/l-arginine (triple stimulus) each on separate mornings fasting. Outcomes comprised cortisol concentrations, pulsatile cortisol secretion, and relationships with age or abdominal visceral fat (AVF).ResultsBy ANCOVA, baseline (saline-infused) cortisol concentrations (nmol/l) did not differ among the sex-steroid milieus (overall mean 364±14). In contrast, stimulated peak cortisol concentrations were strongly determined by secretagogue type (P<0.001) as follows: triple stimulus (868±27)>GHRP-2 (616±42)>saline=SS=GHRH (grand mean 420±21). After GHRP-2 injection, pulsatile cortisol secretion increased with age (R2=0.16,P=0.012). After the triple stimulus, pulsatile cortisol secretion correlated i) inversely with serum 5α-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) concentrations (R2=0.53,P=0.026) and ii) directly with computerized tomography-estimated AVF (R2=0.11,P=0.038).ConclusionAge, DHT concentrations, AVF, and secretagogue type influence pulsatile cortisol secretion at least in men. Further studies should be performed to assess ACTH secretion and native ghrelin action in defined sex-steroid milieus.
Assessment of Formalin and Hydrogen Peroxide Use during Egg Incubation of North American Burbot
Authors: Polinski Mark P , Jensen Nathan R , Cain Kenneth D , Johnson Keith A , Ireland Susan C 
Published: March 2010

Abstract
Control of aquatic fungi in the family Saprolegniacea during egg incubation was investigated as part of a program aimed at developing aquaculture methods for Kootenai River burbot Lota lota maculosa, a species relatively unknown to North American aquaculture. The concentration effectiveness of two antifungal control methods, formalin and hydrogen peroxide, was compared over two consecutive breeding seasons in a newly developed micro-incubation system. The results indicated that daily 15-min treatments of 1,667 mg of formalin/L and 500 mg of hydrogen peroxide/L inhibited fungal growth on eggs and increased egg survival by up to 200% during the incubation period relative to the untreated controls. Lower concentrations of 1,000 mg/L formalin and 250 mg/L hydrogen peroxide also yielded increased survival but were not sufficient to completely inhibit fungal growth on eggs. Concentrations up to 5,000 mg/L formalin and 500 mg/L hydrogen peroxide did not appear to negatively influence egg survival during any stage of development. Gross larval deformities observed 7 d after the first observed hatch were not significantly different between any antifungal treatment group and the untreated controls. Thus, to maximize egg survival and adequately control fungus during egg incubation for this species, a minimum of 1,667 mg/L formalin or 500 mg/L hydrogen peroxide is recommended.
Evaluation of a Dietary Dairy–Yeast Prebiotic in Juvenile Golden Shiners in Ponds
Authors: Lochmann Rebecca , Sink Todd D , Phillips Harold , Chen Ruguang 
Published: March 2010

Abstract
We evaluated the performance in ponds of juvenile golden shiners Notemigonus crysoleucas fed a control diet or a diet with 2% dairy–yeast prebiotic. Fish weighing 0.1 ± 0.001 g (mean ± SD) were initially stocked into five 0.04-ha earthen ponds per diet at 21.9 kg/ha and fed extruded 35%-protein pellets to satiation twice daily. Subsamples of fish were weighed at 2-week intervals for 6 weeks; the fish were harvested at 7 weeks to avoid reproduction. For golden shiners fed the control and prebiotic diets, the mean individual weight gain (2.93 and 2.89 g, respectively), net yield (214.0 and 198.8 kg/ha), feed conversion ratio (1.34 and 1.47), and survival (61.5% and 64.2%) did not differ. Condition index (Fulton's K) was higher in fish fed the control (1.15) rather than the prebiotic diet (1.08). After harvest, 100 fish per pond were acclimated to tanks before being subjected to a bacterial challenge with Flavobacterium columnare. Each pond replicate received one of three experimental treatments: confinement stress for 30 min before F. columnare exposure (stressed), no stress before F. columnare exposure (unstressed), or no stress or exposure to F. columnare (control). Whole-body cortisol increased in stressed fish regardless of diet. After release, fish were exposed to a virulent strain (PB02) of F. columnare for 18 h. Survival over 14 d ranged from 98.3% to 100% among fish in the control and unstressed treatments fed either the control or prebiotic diets. The stressed golden shiners fed the prebiotic diet had mortality rates similar to those of the unstressed fish fed the control or prebiotic diet, but the stressed fish fed the control diet had lower mean survival (73.3 ± 4.4%) than those fed the prebiotic diet. Preliminary economic analysis indicates that the higher cost of feed containing a 2% prebiotic may be justified based on the increased survival of golden shiners in tanks exposed to stressors and pathogens.
Growth and Feed Efficiency of Channel × Blue Catfish Hybrids Stocked at Various Densities and Fed Once or Twice Daily in Ponds
Authors: Li Menghe H , Robinson Edwin H , Minchew Charles D , Tucker Craig S , Bosworth Brian G , Heikes David , Yant Roger 
Published: March 2010

Abstract
Two experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of stocking density and feeding frequency on the growth, net yield, and feed conversion of hybrid catfish (female channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus × male blue catfish I. furcatus). In experiment 1, hybrid catfish fingerlings with a mean initial weight of 65 g were stocked into ten 0.4-ha earthen ponds at a density of 12,355 fish/ha. In experiment 2, hybrid catfish fingerlings with the same mean initial weight as in experiment 1 were stocked into twenty 0.4-ha earthen ponds at densities of 18,532 and 24,710 fish/ha, respectively. Fish were fed once or twice daily to apparent satiation. In experiment 1, all fish were harvested in early September. In experiment 2, market-size fish (target size, ≥0.794 kg/fish) were selectively harvested in late September by means of an in-pond mechanical fish grader with the bar spacing set to 5.4 cm. All remaining fish were harvested in mid-June the next year. In both experiments, fish fed twice daily were given more feed, but there were no significant differences in weight gain per fish and net yield between fish fed once daily and those fed twice daily. Fish fed twice daily had a significantly higher feed conversion ratio. In experiment 2, a stocking density of 18,532 fish/ha resulted in higher weight gain and lower net yield than a stocking density of 24,710 fish/ha. Based on the results from this study, it appears to be efficient to stock hybrids at a density of 12,355 fish/ha, feed them once daily over a growing season, and “clean” harvest them at the end of the season. However, a multiple-batch system may also be used to grow hybrids at densities of 18,532–24,710 fish/ha by means of a catfish grading system to remove market-size fish.
Effects of Socioeconomic Status on Colon Cancer Treatment Accessibility and Survival in Toronto, Ontario, and San Francisco, California, 1996–2006
Authors: Gorey Kevin M. , Luginaah Isaac N. , Bartfay Emma , Fung Karen Y. , Holowaty Eric J. , Wright Frances C. , Hamm Caroline , Kanjeekal Sindu M. 
Published: March 2010

Objectives. We examined the differential effects of socioeconomic status on colon cancer care and survival in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and San Francisco, California. Methods. We analyzed registry data for colon cancer patients from Ontario (n = 930) and California (n = 1014), diagnosed between 1996 and 2000 and followed until 2006, on stage, surgery, adjuvant chemotherapy, and survival. We obtained socioeconomic data for individuals’ residences from population censuses. Results. Income was directly associated with lymph node evaluation, chemotherapy, and survival in San Francisco but not in Toronto. High-income persons had better survival rates in San Francisco than in Toronto. After adjustment for stage, survival was better for low-income residents of Toronto than for those of San Francisco. Middle- to low-income patients were more likely to receive indicated chemotherapy in Toronto than in San Francisco. Conclusions. Socioeconomic factors appear to mediate colon cancer care in urban areas of the United States but not in Canada. Improvements are needed in screening, diagnostic investigations, and treatment access among low-income Americans.
Tuberculosis Among Persons Born in the Philippines and Living in the United States, 2000–2007
Authors: Manangan Lilia Ponce , Salibay Catheryn Jumao-as , MacLaren Wallace Ryan , Kammerer Steve , Pratt Robert , McAllister Laura , Robison Valerie 
Published: March 2010

Objectives. We examined demographic, clinical, and treatment outcome characteristics of Filipinos with tuberculosis (TB) in the United States. Methods. We calculated TB case rates from US Census Bureau population estimates and National Tuberculosis Surveillance System data for US-born non-Hispanic Whites and for US residents born in the Philippines, India, China, Cambodia, Vietnam, Pakistan, and Korea––countries that are major contributors to the TB burden in the United States. We compared Filipinos with the other groups through univariate and multivariate analyses. Results. Of 45 504 TB patients, 15.5% were Filipinos; 43.0% were other Asian/Pacific Islander groups; and 41.6% were Whites. Per 100 000 persons in 2007, the TB rate was 73.5 among Cambodians, 54.0 among Vietnamese, 52.1 among Filipinos, and 0.9 among Whites. Filipinos were more likely than other groups to be employed as health care workers and to have used private health care providers but less likely to be HIV positive and to be offered HIV testing. Conclusions. The relatively high TB rate among Filipinos indicates that TB control strategies should target this population. Providers should be encouraged to offer HIV testing to all TB patients.
Decreases in Smoking Prevalence in Asian Communities Served by the Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH) Project
Authors: Liao Youlian , Tsoh Janice Y. , Chen Roxana , Foo Mary Anne , Garvin Cheza C. , Grigg-Saito Dorcas , Liang Sidney , McPhee Stephen , Nguyen Tung T. , Tran Jacqueline H. , Giles Wayne H. 
Published: March 2010

Objectives. We examined trends in smoking prevalence from 2002 through 2006 in 4 Asian communities served by the Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH) intervention. Methods. Annual survey data from 2002 through 2006 were gathered in 4 REACH Asian communities. Trends in the age-standardized prevalence of current smoking for men in 2 Vietnamese communities, 1 Cambodian community, and 1 Asian American/Pacific Islander (API) community were examined and compared with nationwide US and state-specific data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. Results. Prevalence of current smoking decreased dramatically among men in REACH communities. The reduction rate was significantly greater than that observed in the general US or API male population, and it was greater than reduction rates observed in the states in which REACH communities were located. There was little change in the quit ratio of men at the state and national levels, but there was a significant increase in quit ratios in the REACH communities, indicating increases in the proportions of smokers who had quit smoking. Conclusions. Smoking prevalence decreased in Asian communities served by the REACH project, and these decreases were larger than nationwide decreases in smoking prevalence observed for the same period. However, disparities in smoking prevalence remain a concern among Cambodian men and non–English-speaking Vietnamese men; these subgroups continue to smoke at a higher rate than do men nationwide.
Deletion of the α-Arrestin Protein Txnip in Mice Promotes Adiposity and Adipogenesis While Preserving Insulin Sensitivity
Authors: Chutkow William A. , Birkenfeld Andreas L. , Brown Jonathan D. , Lee Hui-Young , Frederick David W. , Yoshioka Jun , Patwari Parth , Kursawe Romy , Cushman Samuel W. , Plutzky Jorge , Shulman Gerald I. , Samuel Varman T. , Lee Richard T. 
Published: March 2010

OBJECTIVE
Thioredoxin interacting protein (Txnip), a regulator of cellular oxidative stress, is induced by hyperglycemia and inhibits glucose uptake into fat and muscle, suggesting a role for Txnip in type 2 diabetes pathogenesis. Here, we tested the hypothesis that Txnip-null (knockout) mice are protected from insulin resistance induced by a high-fat diet.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS
Txnip gene-deleted (knockout) mice and age-matched wild-type littermate control mice were maintained on a standard chow diet or subjected to 4 weeks of high-fat feeding. Mice were assessed for body composition, fat development, energy balance, and insulin responsiveness. Adipogenesis was measured from ex vivo fat preparations, and in mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) and 3T3-L1 preadipocytes after forced manipulation of Txnip expression.

RESULTS
Txnip knockout mice gained significantly more adipose mass than controls due to a primary increase in both calorie consumption and adipogenesis. Despite increased fat mass, Txnip knockout mice were markedly more insulin sensitive than controls, and augmented glucose transport was identified in both adipose and skeletal muscle. RNA interference gene-silenced preadipocytes and Txnip−/− MEFs were markedly adipogenic, whereas Txnip overexpression impaired adipocyte differentiation. As increased adipogenesis and insulin sensitivity suggested aspects of augmented peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor-γ (PPARγ) response, we investigated Txnip's regulation of PPARγ function; manipulation of Txnip expression directly regulated PPARγ expression and activity.

CONCLUSIONS
Txnip deletion promotes adiposity in the face of high-fat caloric excess; however, loss of this α-arrestin protein simultaneously enhances insulin responsiveness in fat and skeletal muscle, revealing Txnip as a novel mediator of insulin resistance and a regulator of adipogenesis.
Activation of AMP-Activated Protein Kinase Inhibits Oxidized LDL-Triggered Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress In Vivo
Authors: Dong Yunzhou , Zhang Miao , Wang Shuangxi , Liang Bin , Zhao Zhengxing , Liu Chao , Wu Mingyuan , Choi Hyoung Chul , Lyons Timothy J. , Zou Ming-Hui 
Published: March 2010

OBJECTIVE
The oxidation of LDLs is considered a key step in the development of atherosclerosis. How LDL oxidation contributes to atherosclerosis remains poorly defined. Here we report that oxidized and glycated LDL (HOG-LDL) causes aberrant endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and that the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) suppressed HOG-LDL–triggered ER stress in vivo.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS
ER stress markers, sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase (SERCA) activity and oxidation, and AMPK activity were monitored in cultured bovine aortic endothelial cells (BAECs) exposed to HOG-LDL or in isolated aortae from mice fed an atherogenic diet.

RESULTS
Exposure of BAECs to clinically relevant concentrations of HOG-LDL induced prolonged ER stress and reduced SERCA activity but increased SERCA oxidation. Chronic administration of Tempol (a potent antioxidant) attenuated both SERCA oxidation and aberrant ER stress in mice fed a high-fat diet in vivo. Likewise, AMPK activation by pharmacological (5′-aminoimidazole-4-carboxymide-1-β-d-ribofuranoside, metformin, and statin) or genetic means (adenoviral overexpression of constitutively active AMPK mutants) significantly mitigated ER stress and SERCA oxidation and improved the endothelium-dependent relaxation in isolated mouse aortae. Finally, Tempol administration markedly attenuated impaired endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation, SERCA oxidation, ER stress, and atherosclerosis in ApoE−/− and ApoE−/−/AMPKα2−/− fed a high-fat diet.

CONCLUSION
We conclude that HOG-LDL, via enhanced SERCA oxidation, causes aberrant ER stress, endothelial dysfunction, and atherosclerosis in vivo, all of which are inhibited by AMPK activation.