cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A HIERARCHICALLY INTELLIGENT METHOD FOR THE CONTROL OF COMPLEX SYSTEMS

This paper deals with the control of a class of large-scale, nonlinear, man-machine systems for advanced automation. The special requirements that must be met by these systems are analyzed in the light of their prospective applications. A hierarchical method is developed and applied to the control of an upper limb prosthesis. A new approach using formal languages is suggested for the “intelligent” suboptimal control of dynamic systems.
The Social Psychology of the 2008 U.S. Presidential Election

This article introduces the 16 articles appearing in the 2009 and 2010 volumes of Analyses of Social Issues and Public Policy that were submitted in response to a call for papers on “The Social Psychology of the 2008 United States Presidential Election.” The papers touch a wide array of election topics, comparing the backgrounds and values of voters and nonvoters, those voting for different candidates, and those who choose which candidates they support early vs. late during the campaign. These papers, together with several others on media representations of candidates, highlight the continuing presence of race in shaping political attitudes and preferences, and also emphasize the evolution of American prejudices in the election process, from overt rejection of individuals who are racially different, to qualified political support under certain circumstances. Other papers in the collection focus on the role of gender as well as race, and also on some of the many ways in which presidential elections reflect and shape the self-concepts of American voters.
Comparison of Oral Pentobarbital Sodium (Nembutal) and Oral Chloral Hydrate for Sedation of Infants During Radiologic Imaging: Preliminary Results

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this study was to compare the safety and efficacy of oral cherry-flavored pentobarbital sodium (Nembutal) and oral chloral hydrate to sedate infants undergoing radiologic imaging.SUBJECTS AND METHODS. We prospectively recorded data for all infants sedated with oral cherry-flavored pentobarbital sodium and oral chloral hydrate for imaging examinations between January 1997 and August 1999. The parameters recorded were each patient's age, weight, and American Society of Anesthesiologists classification; the time required to sedate; the total length of sedation time; the time required to discharge from the recovery room; and adverse events. The two-sample Student's t test and Fisher's exact test were used for statistical analysis.RESULTS. Oral pentobarbital sodium was administered to 317 infants. These infants had a mean age ± SD of 6.9 ± 3.1 months and a mean weight of 7.8 ± 4.8 kg; they received a median dose of 4 mg/kg of body weight. Oral chloral hydrate was administered to 358 i...
The interface between phrasal and functional constraints

Many modern grammatical formalisms divide the task of linguistic specification into a context=free component of phrasal constraints and a separate component of attribute-value or functional constraints. Conventional methods for recognizing the strings of a language also divide into two parts so that they can exploit the different computational properties of these components. This paper focuses on the interface between these components as a source of computational complexity distinct from the complexity internal to each. We first analyze the common hybrid strategy in which a polynomial context-free parser is modified to interleave functional constraint solving with context-free constituent analysis. This strategy depends on the property of monotonicity in order to prune unnecessary computation. We describe a number of other properties that can be exploited for computational advantage, and we analyze some alternative interface strategies based on them. We present the results of preliminary experiments that generally support our intuitive analyses. A surprising outcome is that under certain circumstances an algorithm that does no pruning in the interface may perform significantly better than one that does.
Efficacy of reflex HPV16/18 genotyping in predicting CIN3/VAIN3 in women with HPV+/Pap– results

Introduction Genotyping for human papillomavirus (HPV) types 16/18 has been recommended for women with HPV+/Pap− co-testing results on cervical cancer screening. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of reflex HPV16/18 genotyping for predicting high-grade cervical and vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN3/VAIN3) in women who underwent a HPV16/18 genotyping test following HPV+/Pap− co-testing results. Materials and methods We retrospectively reviewed records of 175 women who underwent reflex HPV16/18 genotyping after HPV+/Pap− co-testing results at our institution from 2011 to 2013. The HPV16/18 genotyping results using the Cervista HPV16/18 assay were correlated with follow-up data (ie, 107 biopsy and 68 Pap test) to assess the risk of CIN3/VAIN3. Results In 175 women (median age: 51 years), HPV16 and/or 18 were detected in 47 women (26.9%): 36 with HPV16, 9 with HPV18, and 2 with HPV16 and 18. The cumulative incidence of CIN3/VAIN3 was 4.6-fold higher in women with a positive HPV16/18 genotyping result (10.6%) than in women with a negative HPV16/18 result (2.3%) with a statistically significant difference ( P = 0.015). The predictive value of reflex HPV16/18 genotyping for CIN3/VAIN3 was 63% (5 out of 8). Conclusions A positive reflex HPV16/18 genotyping result predicts a significantly higher risk of CIN3/VAIN3 than a negative reflex 16/18 HPV result, supporting the need for an immediate colposcopy evaluation in these patients. For women with a negative reflex HPV16/18 genotyping result, an annual HPV/Pap cytology co-testing is a reasonable follow-up to predict non-16/18 HPV–associated CIN3/VAIN3.
Immunoprobe Localization by Correlative Microscopy.

Mammalian oocytes present challenges for optimal study by electron microscopy (EM) due to their high level of hydration, their large size, and their relatively undifferentiated cytoplasm. This is particularly true for immunoprobe localization which has led to a dependence on light microscopic (LM) techniques, such as immunofluorescence. This study presents correlative LM and EM data to describe an example of the failure of light microscopy to correctly predict the ultrastructure of one particular organelle. Immunoprobe localization of centrosome and microtubule organizing center (MTOC) antigens in the mammalian egg was made by immunofluorescence and post-embedding immuno-EM, with best EM results achieved in Lowicryl-embedded material. Centrosome and MTOC antigens were detected by 5051 and an antibody to gamma tubulin (γtubulin). Gamma tubulin is a highly conserved element of MTOCs in many species and, thus, is highly diagnostic for them; it is also considered essential for microtubule (MT) nucleation. Results indicate that prior to nuclear breakdown, 5051 antigens and γ-tubulin are found exclusively in a type of “organelle,” the multivesicular aggregate (MVA), that bears no resemblance to MTOCs at the ultrastructural level. Until recently, the MVA was considered an organelle without a known function, while standard MTOCs were presumed to be the entities that carry the proteins recognized by centrosome antibodies. LM localization of centrosomal antigens carried the presumption that standard MTOCs were the entities labeled. Whether or not other molecules are shown to co-localize to these MVA, the presence of γ-tubulin supports the contention that MVA, or their contents, serve as centrosomal precursors with a unique ultrastructure. Thus, dependence on LM techniques alone can lead to erroneous conclusions on organelle identity and function.
An intuitive approach to geometric continuity for parametric curves and surfaces

Parametric spline curves and surfaces are typically constructed so that some number of derivatives match where the curve segments or surface patches abut. If derivatives up to order n are continuous, the segments or patches are said to meet with Cn, or nth order parametric continuity. It has been shown previously that parametric continuity is sufficient, but not necessary, for geometric smoothness.
Linearized Theory for Pulse Tube Cryocooler Performance

A linearized theory, which assumes small pressure perturbations, is presented for the performance of orificetype pulse tube cryocoolers. The effect of gas-to-wall heat transfer within the pulse tube is included. Analytical expressions are derived for pulse tube flow properties and refrigeration power as functions of parameters K, Hl9 and v, which characterize orifice area, pulse tube volume, and pulse tube thermal-layer thickness, respectively. The orifice area that optimizes refrigeration power is deduced. When operating with the optimum orifice area, the effect of the first-order (sinusoidal) gas-to-wall heat transfer, within the pulse tube, is to decrease refrigeration power. A basic (zero orifice area) pulse tube cryocooler is found to provide about 10% of the refrigeration power available from an orifice-type device. It is shown that a two-piston Stirling-cycle cryocooler provides greater refrigeration power than the corresponding conventional pulse tube cryocooler. a B b G Hl K LF M P_ PE p pm Ap R r S T t V X a a p y A,
Executive function skills of 6–8 year olds: Brain and behavioral evidence and implications for school achievement

Academic and social success in school has been linked to children's self-regulation. This study investigated the assessment of the executive function (EF) component of self-regulation using a low-cost, easily administered measure to determine whether scores obtained from the behavioral task would agree with those obtained using a laboratory-based neuropsychological measure of EF skills. The sample included 74 children (37 females; M = 86.2 months) who participated in two assessments of working memory and inhibitory control: Knock-Tap (NEPSY: Korkman, Kirk, and Kemp, 1998), and participation in event-related potential (ERP) testing that included the Directional Stroop Test (Davidson, Cruess, Diamond, O'Craven, & Savoy, 1999). Three main findings emerged. First, children grouped as high versus low performing on the NEPSY Knock-Tap Task were found to performed differently on the more difficult conditions of the DST (the Incongruent and Mixed Conditions), suggesting that the Knock-Tap Task as a low-cost and easy to administer assessment of EF skills may be one way for teachers to identify students with poor inhibitory control skills. Second, children's performance on the DST was strongly related to their ERP responses, adding to evidence that differences in behavioral performance on the DST as a measure of EF skills reflect corresponding differences in brain processing. Finally, differences in brain processing on the DST task also were found when the children were grouped based on Knock-Tap performance. Simple screening procedures can enable teachers to identify children whose distractibility, inattentiveness, or poor attention spans may interfere with classroom learning.
Molecular Biology and Behavior

Following our initial observation that the A1 allele of the D2 dopamine receptor (DRD2) gene was associated with alcoholism, a number of studies, both in the United States and abroad, have attempted to replicate and extend this finding in different Caucasian populations. In nine independent studies containing a total of 491 heterogeneous alcoholics (less severe and severe) and 495 heterogeneous controls (assessed and unassessed for alcoholism), the prevalence of the A1 allele was 43.0% in the former group compared with 25.7% in the latter groups (odds ratio = 2.18, p < 10−6). The prevalence of the Al allele increased to 56.3% in a more homogeneous sample of 158 severe alcoholics (odds ratio = 3.32, p < 10−8). Moreover, the B1 allele of the DRD2 gene was also found to be significantly associated with severe alcoholism. Additional data are accruing which also implicate the DRD2 A1 and B1 alleles in substance use disorders other than alcoholism. If further studies continue to support the results currently available, they would indicate that the DRD2 gene is the most prominent single gene determinant of susceptibility to severe substance abuse. However, the larger role still appears to be played by a combination of environmental factors and as yet unidentified genes.
Adaptive time-frequency decomposition with matching pursuits

An adaptive time-frequency decomposition is introduced. It represents signals as a linear expansion of local time-frequency waveforms, selected in order to match the signal structures. The decomposition is performed with an algorithm, called matching pursuit, whose convergence is guaranteed. A new definition of signal energy density in the time-frequency plane is derived by summing the Wigner distribution of each local time-frequency waveform. This energy density does not have any interference terms, unlike Wigner and Cohen class distributions. Numerical examples are described. >
Sulfidation of Cadmium at the Nanoscale

We investigate the evolution of structures that result when spherical Cd nanoparticles of a few hundred nanometers in diameter react with dissolved molecular sulfur species in solution to form hollow CdS. Over a wide range of temperatures and concentrations, we find that rapid Cd diffusion through the growing CdS shell localizes the reaction front at the outermost CdS/S interface, leading to hollow particles when all the Cd is consumed. When we examine partially reacted particles, we find that this system differs significantly from others in which the nanoscale Kirkendall effect has been used to create hollow particles. In previously reported systems, partial reaction creates a hollow particle with a spherically symmetric metal core connected to the outer shell by filaments. In contrast, here we obtain a lower symmetry structure, in which the unreacted metal core and the coalesced vacancies separate into two distinct spherical caps, minimizing the metal/void interface. This pattern of void coalescence is likely to occur in situations where the metal/vacancy self-diffusivities in the core are greater than the diffusivity of the cations through the shell.
Modification of late potentials by intracoronary ethanol infusion.

Antiarrhythmic drugs have no consistent effects on the signal-averaged electrocardiogram (ECG) while successful surgical ablation of ventricular tachycardia is known to abolish late potentials. Ten patients with prior myocardial infarction had successful ablation of recurrent sustained ventricular tachycardia by selective ethanol infusion into a small coronary vessel supplying the tachycardia origin. Signal-averaged ECGs were performed before and after initially successful ablation in patients without pacemaker dependence or infra-ventricular conduction delay to assess the effects on late potentials and to determine if the signal-averaged EGG could predict ventricular tachycardia recurrence. Only four of ten patients were eligible for study and all four had late potentials prior to ethanol ablation. Late potentials were abolished in one patient who has not had an arrhythmia recurrence in 25 months. One patient with sudden death and another patient with ventricular tachycardia recurrence had persistent late potentials post procedure that were modified by a reduction in terminal voltage and lengthening of terminal low amplitude signal. The fourth patient who receives chronic amiodarone had no arrhythmia recurrence in spite of persistent but modified late potentials. Thus, the abolition of late potentials after ethanol ablation may predict freedom from arrhythmia recurrence.
Feeding distillers grains supplements to improve amino acid nutriture of lambs consuming moderate-quality forages.

We hypothesized that providing dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS) would improve the N retention and use of nutrients by wethers fed a moderate-quality bromegrass hay. Additionally, we hypothesized that treatment effects on nutrient fluxes would be similar after 3, 6, or 9 wk on treatment. Chronicindwellingcathetersweresurgicallyimplanted in a mesenteric artery, mesenteric vein, hepatic vein, and portal vein of 9 Suffolk × Dorset wethers (initial BW ± SD = 57.4 ± 6.1 kg). Wethers had ad libitum access to moderate-quality bromegrass hay (8.44% CP, DM basis) and received 100 g/d of either a corn-based (Corn, n = 4) or a DDGS-based (n = 5) supplement. There was no difference in DMI (P = 0.85) or DM digest- ibility (P = 0.46) between the 2 groups. There was a numerically greater N intake (21.5 vs. 18.4 g/d; P = 0.14) and N retention (4.4 vs. 2.5 g/d; P = 0.15) when wethers were supplemented with DDGS instead of Corn. Wethers fed DDGS had a greater (P = 0.008) release of α-amino N from the portal-drained viscera (PDV, 37.9 mmol/h) than those fed Corn (14.1 mmol/ h). Similarly, there was a shift (P = 0.004) from a net
Bioactivation of the Cancer Chemopreventive Agent Tamoxifen to Quinone Methides by Cytochrome P4502B6 and Identification of the Modified Residue on the Apoprotein

The nonsteroidal antiestrogen tamoxifen was introduced as a treatment for breast cancer 3 decades ago. It has also been approved as a chemopreventive agent and is prescribed to women at high risk for this disease. However, several studies have shown that use of tamoxifen leads to increased risk of endometrial cancer in humans. One potential pathway of tamoxifen toxicity could involve metabolism via hydroxylation to give 4-hydroxytamoxifen (4OHtam), which may be further oxidized to form a quinone methide. CYP2B6 is a highly polymorphic drug-metabolizing enzyme, and it metabolizes a number of clinically important drugs. Earlier studies from our laboratory have shown that tamoxifen is a mechanism-based inactivator of CYP2B6. The aim of the current study was to investigate the possible formation of reactive intermediates through detection of protein covalent binding and glutathione ethyl ester adduct (GSHEE) formation. The incubation of tamoxifen with 2B6 gave rise to an adduct of 4OHtam with glutathione, which was characterized as the 4OHtam quinone methide + GSHEE with an m/z value of 719, and the structure was characterized by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The metabolic activation of tamoxifen in the CYP2B6 reconstituted system also resulted in the formation of an adduct to the P4502B6 apoprotein, which was identified using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry. The site responsible for the inactivation of CYP2B6 was determined by proteolytic digestion and identification of the labeled peptide. This revealed a tryptic peptide 188FHYQDQE194 with the site of adduct formation localized to Gln193 as the site modified by the reactive metabolite formed during tamoxifen metabolism.
Hyperstability approach to the synthesis of adaptive controllers for robot manipulators

A general approach to the synthesis of model reference adaptive controllers for manipulators by means of hyperstability theory is presented. The manipulator adaptive control problem is first formulated in a form suitable for the application of hyperstability theory. The control scheme consists of feedback and cascade controllers, and an auxiliary signal. A generalized adaptation algorithm is developed which offers considerable flexibility in the choice of controller structure and its adjustable parameters. >
Heavy ion driver with non-scaling FFAG

We explore the possibility of using two non-scaling FFAG accelerators for a high power heavy-ion driver as an alternative to a superconducting Linac [1]. Ions of Uranium 238 are accelerated to a kinetic energy of 400 MeV/u and a total power of 400 kWatt. Different modes of acceleration have been studied: at 1 and 10 kHz repetition rate, and for Continuous Wave production. The following is a summary of the study. More details of the study can be found in [2].
Using support Vector Machines as HRR signature classifiers

Support Vector Machines (SVMs) are an emerging machine learning technique that has found widespread application in various areas during the past four years. The success of SVMs is mainly due to a number of attractive features, including a) applicability to the processing of high dimensional data, b) ability to achieve a global optimum, and c) the ability to deal with nonlinear data. One potential application for SVMs is High Range Resolution (HRR) radar signatures, typically used for HRR-based Automatic Target Recognition (ATR). HRR signatures are problematic for many traditional ATR algorithms because of the unique characteristics of HRR signatures. For example, HRR signatures are generally high dimensional, linearly inseparable, and extremely sensitive to aspect changes. In this paper we demonstrate that SVMs are a promising alternative in dealing with the challenges of HRR signatures. The studies presented in this paper represent an initial attempt at applying SVMs to HRR data. The most straightforward application of SVMs to HRR-based ATR is to use SVMs as classifiers. We experimentally compare the performance of SVM-based classifiers with several conventional classifiers, such as k-Nearest-Neighbor (kNN) classifiers and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) Classifiers. Experimental results suggest that SVM classifiers possess a number of advantages. For example, a) applying SVM classifiers to HRR data requires little prior knowledge of the target data, b) SVM classifiers require much less computation than kNN classifiers during testing, and c) the structure of a trained SVM classifier can reveal a number of important properties of the target data.
Dynamic Finite Element Analysis of Failure in Alternating Phase-Shift Masks Caused by Megasonic Cleaning

The mechanical response of alternating phase-shift mask (APSM) microstructures subjected to dynamic pressure loadings relevant to those encountered in megasonic cleaning was analyzed with the finite element method (FEM). A parametric study of the effects of microstructure dimensions, pressure amplitude, and loading frequency on the mask structural integrity was performed for two typical chromium/quartz APSM patterns. Failure due to microfracture and plastic deformation processes which may occur during megasonic cleaning was examined for loading frequencies of 1, 5, and 10 MHz. The FEM results provide insight into possible failure modes and critical microstructure dimensions for instantaneous microstructure damage. Different failure scenarios revealed by the FEM results are in qualitative agreement with experimental observations. The results of this study have direct implications to the design of extreme ultraviolet lithography masks and the optimization of the megasonic cleaning process.
Loss of osteoprotegerin expression in the inner ear causes degeneration of the cochlear nerve and sensorineural hearing loss

article i nfo Article history: Osteoprotegerin (OPG) is a key regulator of bone remodeling. Mutations and variations in the OPG gene cause many human diseases that are characterized by not only skeletal abnormalities but also poorly understood hearing loss: Paget's disease, osteoporosis, and celiac disease. To gain insight into the mechanisms of hearing loss in OPG deficiency, we studied OPG knockout (Opg �/� ) mice. We show that they develop sensorineural hearing loss, in addition to conductive hearing loss due to abnormal middle-ear bones. OPG deficiency caused demyelination and degeneration of the cochlear nerve in vivo. It also activated ERK, sensitized spiral ganglion cells (SGC) to apoptosis, and inhibited proliferation and survival of cochlear stem cells in vitro, which could be rescued by treatment with exogenous OPG, an ERK inhibitor, or bisphosphonate. Our results demonstrate a novel role for OPG in the regulation of SGC survival, and suggest a mechanism for sensorineural hearing loss in OPG deficiency.
The Effects of Livestock on California Ground Squirrels (Spermophilus beecheyii)

Understanding the impacts of livestock grazing on wildlands is important for making appropriate ecosystem management decisions. Using livestock exclosures, we examined the effects of moderate cattle grazing on the abundance of California ground squirrels (Spermophilus beecheyii Richardson) and the spatial distribution of active burrows within their colonies in grassland and blue oak (Quercus douglasii Hook. & Arn.) savanna habitats in the coastal range of California over a 3-year period (1991–1994). Overall, relative population densities of California ground squirrels declined significantly throughout the experiment, but did not differ between grazed and ungrazed colonies or between habitats. There was also no significant interaction between these 2 factors. The spatial distribution of burrows, as measured by the mean nearest neighbor distance of active entrances within a colony, did not differ significantly between grazed and ungrazed colonies or between habitats, nor was the interaction significant. Thus, low to moderate levels of cattle grazing did not appear to have a strong effect on the population dynamics of California ground squirrels, and grazing may be compatible with maintenance of ground squirrel populations. Based on multivariate analysis of variance of 1994 data, live plant cover, native plant cover, and standing biomass were lower where the number of burrows was higher on grazed colonies but were little affected on ungrazed colonies. Ground squirrels may increase the impact of livestock grazing and thus reduce the capacity of the land to support other activities. However, it is clear that the effects of livestock grazing are complex and that detailed studies of potential mechanisms by which grazing impacts California ground squirrel populations are necessary.
Memory Avoidance by Older Adults When “Old Dogs” Won’t Perform Their “New Tricks”

Learning often involves a transition from responding based on an effortful initial strategy to using a faster and easier memory-based strategy. Older adults shift strategy more slowly compared with younger adults. I describe research establishing that age differences in strategy shift are impacted not only by declines in older adults’ learning but also by their volitional avoidance of memory retrieval. I also discuss the factors that influence older adults’ memory avoidance, including their understanding of the available strategies’ relative efficiency, accuracy, and effortfulness, as well as age differences in the preference for a consistent strategic approach. Last, I consider the implications of memory avoidance for older adults’ everyday functioning. This research demonstrates that volition and choice must be taken into account when studying cognitive performance and aging.
Urban Communication| Learning the City Through Stories: Audio Documentary as Urban Communication Pedagogy

In this article, we critically examine audio documentary at the intersections of urban storytelling, community-based learning, and urban communication pedagogy. We argue that audio documentary is both a research method and mode of storytelling production that can help students and listeners creatively learn about urban life. First, we focus on the intersections of urban communication and documentary in an effort to frame how documentary offers unique opportunities to learn about urban life and culture. Second, we argue that audio documentary production courses offer students experiential and community-based opportunities to learn about and do urban communication.
P047 : ANALYSIS OF EPITOPE SHARING AMONG HLA-A1,3,11 AND 80

Accurate identification of the HLA-A80 by serologic test methods has not been feasible due to strong crossreactivity with HLA-A1. In a tabulation of HLA antibodies in 703 sensitized patients, 122 of 185 (66%) of patients with A1 antibody also had antibody reactive with A80. In contrast, there were only 9 sera reactive with A80 that did not react also with A1. Of those, 7 had weak reactivity that could not be confirmed in other assays. The two remaining patients both had A1 in their phenotype. HLA-A ∗ 80:01 shares substantial sequence homology with the A1–A3–A11 and A1–A9 families. There is a cluster of polymorphic residues between positions 150–163, several of which are shared among A80, A3, and A11, but not with A1. Several eplets have been defined that are shared between A1 and A80; however, there is only one antibody accessible eplet, 57E, present in A80 that is not found in A1. The sequence and eplet data would suggest that patients who have A1 in their phenotype are unlikely to recognize A80. We report here the development of strong antibody (MFI > 20,000) to A80 in one of those patients who had been mismatched for A80 by a renal allograft. Strong reactivity with A80 was observed in 74 sera from this patient over a 5 year period. Adsorptions with cell lines (Table 1 below, based on single antigen MFI values), showed that while adsorption with an A80+ cell significantly reduced A80, A3, and A11 reactivity, adsorption with an A1+ cell only reduced reactivity vs. A3 and A11. The adsorption data were confirmed by flow cytometric crossmatches using surrogate A1 and A80+ cells. These data indicate that patients with HLA-A1 in their phenotype can make antibody to A80; however, further study is needed to determine if A80 antibody can be evoked by an A80 mismatch or develops through epitope spreading from A3 and/or A11 mismatches. Adsorption single antigen data Bead specificity→ Adsorbing cell Ag ↓ A80 A1 A3 A23 A24 A11 A36 UNTREATED 19328 0 7782 20013 18150 7009 89 A1 22718 0 4640 18452 18891 3383 0 A2,A80 6055 0 NA NA 268 446 0 A24 19698 276 1895 5609 2979 1288 282
Higher Management Risks in Product Strategy

The author draws on many years of experience in industry, consulting and education. He discusses the new complexities of the business environment that account for higher risks in product management...
Conservative Protestantism and Anti-Evolution Curricular Challenges Across States†

Objective Drawing on a symbolic politics perspective, we analyze state-level “anti-evolution” legislative attempts between 2000 and 2012 to alter science curricula in the United States. Method We use structural equation modeling to examine whether interest groups, public opinion, government political climate, and science and engineering workforces mediate influence of the religious composition of a state on anti-evolution legislation. Results State conservative Protestant adherence does influence anti-evolution legislation efforts indirectly by increasing the influence of conservative Protestants in state GOP bodies. While a state's conservative Protestant adherence rate does increase anti-evolution public opinion and the likelihood of anti-evolution organizations being active in the state, these do not increase the likelihood of anti-evolution legislation being considered by state governments. Conclusion The results suggest that anti-evolution legislation activity is a ceremonial act on the part of politicians, which legitimates the values of conservative Protestants and generates political support.
Capture of 2 and 24 keV neutrons by the zirconium isotopes

The Zr isotopes have been studied with the capture of 2− and 24-keV neutrons from the Brookhaven High Flux Reactor tailored beam facility. The binding energies of 91,92,94Zr have been measured. The intensities of the primary γ-ray intensities for 91,92,94Zr are given and compared with previous experimental evidence.
Metabolism of Reactive Oxygen Species in Rice Leaves and Their Regulation on Senescence of Leaves

The metabolizing course of reactive oxygen species in rice leaves and regulatory countermeasures of delaying leaf senescence were introduced in the paper.
Monitoring Information Report Appraisal of Expanded Program on National Immunization in Weifang,2010

Objective To understand the monitoring information report situation of expanded program of national immunization in Weifang, promote the development of immunization program.Methods The data was derived from "China Immunization Program MonitorInformation Management System" and analyzed. Results Among 12 counties (city,district) of the whole city, the report integrity of the level convention vaccination,Ⅱvaccine vaccination, cold chain equipment file and the vaccination institutions file were all 100%.Each kind of vaccine in immunization program,the reported vaccination coverage rates were above 95% except of Cravens JE vaccine polio vaccine second dose was 94.74%.The reported timely coverage of Hepatitis B vaccine first dose in whole city was 98.51%.The estimated vaccination coverage was 37.55-133.45%. Conclusion The estimated vaccination coverage in Weicheng, Hanting, Linqu, Anqiu, Gaomi and Changyi etc.are low, the routine immunization vaccination work and the data report management should be further strengthened.
SCODE: A Cytoscape app for supervised complex detection in protein-protein interaction graphs

Protein complexes are groups of interacting proteins unified by a common biological function. Identifying complexes amid a network of thousands of interacting proteins poses a difficult computational challenge. Traditional approaches to this problem rely on clique-like topography in order to identify complexes. Supervised learning is an alternative approach that leverages real-valued data in order to extract the features of protein complexes and identify candidates that do not conform to traditional, dense clique structures. SCODE (Supervised Complex Detection), an application for the Cytoscape App Store, implements a supervised learning algorithm for the detection of protein complexes in protein-protein interaction networks.
Dorsal Onlay Buccal Urethroplasty in the Female is Associated with High Quality of Life Using Validated Lower Urinary Tract Symptom Instruments

Abstract Introduction Female urethral stricture is rare and decreases quality of life. Buccal mucosa has become the most popular graft material for male urethroplasty but little is written about females. Rare case reports of buccal mucosa grafting in the female appear in the literature as an alternate method to more commonly performed vaginal flap urethroplasty (Blandy-style flap) or free vaginal mucosa graft urethroplasty. The hypothesis is that dorsal onlay buccal mucosa grafting will improve quality of life scores and provide acceptable recurrence-free rates. Methods We compiled a retrospective case series from 2009 to 2013 to identify female patients treated with dorsal onlay buccal urethroplasty via a suprameatal approach. All patients underwent pelvic exam as well as a supine stress test. Study end points included stricture recurrence verified by cystoscopy, uroflow, post-void residual urine, presence of urinary tract infection, pain, fistula formation, incontinence, and complications at the donor site and the vagina. Results Six patients were identified. Mean followup was 18.6 months. No stress incontinence was noted preoperatively and none developed postoperatively. No fistulas were noted. Mean stricture length was 1.2 cm and mean graft length was 2.75 cm. Two stricture recurrences (33%) were noted, requiring dilation. Mean pain score went from 7.2 to 0 on a 10-point Likert scale (p = 0.004). The number of urinary tract infections per year decreased from 4.3 to 0.3 (p = 0.038). Maximum voided velocity increased from 5.6 to 13.1 ml per second (p = 0.003) and mean post-void residual urine decreased from 270 to 34 ml (p = 0.094). No urethral or vaginal complications were reported. Two patients reported donor site morbidity but no clitoral anesthesia or pain was reported. Conclusions Dorsal onlay buccal urethroplasty provided acceptable but not improved cure rates compared with the published failure rates of alternative methods. Patients experienced significant improvements in pain, urinary flow and quality of life. It can be safely considered instead of ventral onlay vaginal flap urethroplasty or serial dilation in females with stricture.
Synthesis and Opioid Activity of Tyr1–ψ[(Z)CF=CH]–Gly2 and Tyr1–ψ[(S)/(R)-CF3CH–NH]–Gly2 Leu-enkephalin Fluorinated Peptidomimetics

We describe the design, synthesis, and opioid activity of fluoroalkene (Tyr1 -ψ[(Z)CF=CH]-Gly2 ) and trifluoroethylamine (Tyr1 -ψ[(S)/(R)-CF3 CH-NH]-Gly2 ) analogues of the endogenous opioid neuropeptide, Leu-enkephalin. The fluoroalkene peptidomimetic exhibited low nanomolar functional activity (5.0±2 nm and 60±15 nm for δ- and μ-opioid receptors, respectively) with a μ/δ-selectivity ratio that mimics that of the natural peptide. However, the trifluoroethylamine peptidomimetics, irrespective of stereochemistry, did not activate the opioid receptors, which suggest that bulky CF3 substituents are not tolerated at this position.
Esthetic Crown Lengthening: Contemporary Guidelines for Achieving Ideal Gingival Architecture and Stability

The achievement and maintenance of ideal gingival margin levels and architecture constitute essential requirements for esthetic crown lengthening procedures. The use of a scalpel blade and ancillary mechanical armamentarium to sculpt the gingival margins may not be the most efficient or accurate surgical method available, and this review will consider the use of contemporary alternatives. Additionally, the fact that gingival margin levels are often not stable following esthetic crown lengthening surgery is a phenomenon that has perplexed clinicians. The purpose of this article is to review the pertinent literature in search of predictable clinical protocols for esthetic crown lengthening. There has been increasing interest in the use of lasers for dental applications, and their potential benefits for gingival sculpting procedures must be considered. Diode lasers may offer an advantageous compromise between surgical efficacy and practicality. Additionally, coronal gingival re-growth is often an undesired sequela of traditional crown lengthening procedures. Recent literature helps to identify potential contributing factors. The establishment of ideal gingival margin architecture requires precise sculpting of the soft tissues. This is often easier to achieve with lasers, particularly diode lasers. Coronal gingival proliferation following esthetic crown lengthening may be prevented by incorporating more current concepts regarding the need for sufficient bone removal and flap management that emphasizes the preservation of gingival complex dimensions.
Utility of chemical computations in predicting solution free energies of metal ions

AbstractHere, we study quasi-chemical theory (QCT) for the free energies of divalent alkaline earth ions (Ba, Sr, Ca, Mg) in water, emphasizing that: (a) interactions between metal ions and proximal water molecules are as strong as traditional chemical effects; (b) QCT builds directly from accessible electronic structure calculations but rests on fully elaborated molecular statistical thermodynamics; (c) QCT offers choices of convenience in identifying coordination numbers for analysis. We investigate utilisation of direct QCT with inner-shell conditioning , alternative to the traditional conditioning motivated by a generalised van der Waals view. The alternative works well: deleterious non-Gaussian effects of van der Waals repulsive interactions are not serious, and the alternative conditioning improves the convenience of QCT calculations. Comparison between ab initio and force field molecular dynamics (AIMD and FFMD) with standard models suggests that FFMD likely exaggerates the anharmonicity in the the...
The cycling city: bicycles & urban America in the 1890s

In The Cycling City: Bicycles & Urban America in the 1890s, Evan Friss grapples with the multiple and contradictory meanings of the bicycle at the end of the nineteenth century. Was the bicycle a s...
Feature Tracking for High Speed AFM Imaging of Biopolymers

The scanning speed of atomic force microscopes continues to advance with some current commercial microscopes achieving on the order of one frame per second and at least one reaching 10 frames per second. Despite the success of these instruments, even higher frame rates are needed with scan ranges larger than are currently achievable. Moreover, there is a significant installed base of slower instruments that would benefit from algorithmic approaches to increasing their frame rate without requiring significant hardware modifications. In this paper, we present an experimental demonstration of high speed scanning on an existing, non-high speed instrument, through the use of a feedback-based, feature-tracking algorithm that reduces imaging time by focusing on features of interest to reduce the total imaging area. Experiments on both circular and square gratings, as well as silicon steps and DNA strands show a reduction in imaging time by a factor of 3–12 over raster scanning, depending on the parameters chosen.
Learning-based long-range axon tracing in dense scenes

Recent advances in intact brain imaging, such as CLARITY and MAP (Magnified Analysis of the Proteome), enable volumetric imaging of brain tissue at subcellular resolution. Currently there is no effective tool for automated axon tracing at single fiber resolution in densely populated imagery. To address this need, we developed a machine learning-based high performance computing pipeline: 1) a convolutional neural network detects axon fiber voxels, 2) morphological operations extract fiber centerlines, 3) tracking logic connects fiber segments across low-intensity gaps and unresolved fiber crossings. The pipeline was implemented on a CPU cluster and tested on a 250 gigabyte volume of SMI-312 densely labeled axon fibers, imaged from parts of the hippocampus and cortex of a MAP-processed mouse brain. The pipeline automatically traced 221,298 fibers across gray and white matter in 10 hours. Of the traced fibers, 104 exceeded 1 mm, with the longest being 2.16 mm. An accuracy of 84% was reported based on manual evaluation of the 200 longest fibers. While there is room to improve accuracy, this pipeline offers a significant speed-up and increased efficiency over tracing one neuron at a time or manual fiber tracing. As the pipeline is scaled up to evaluate larger regions of the brain, connectivity patterns derived from these automatically traced long-range axons can potentially provide insights into brain function.
Learning from the Past: The Effect of Previous Initiation, Decisions, and Compliance at the NAFTA and WTO Trade Dispute Resolution Forums

What explains a state‟s choice to utilize a regional dispute settlement mechanism to resolve a trade dispute with another state instead of the global, multilateral forum of the World Trade Organization (WTO)? These regional dispute settlement mechanisms (DSMs) present potential stumbling blocks toward multilateral trade dispute resolution. I argue that states learn three key things from prior participation in the different phases of the dispute resolution process that present this situation: the costs of dispute resolution at the forum, the legal procedures of the forum, and the nuances of the relevant international trade law for the forum. Each of these elements allows the state to learn different things to generate a more accurate assessment of the expected outcome and value of bringing a current dispute to that forum and, thus, which forum is more preferred. I hypothesize that while previous regional dispute experience increases the likelihood of selecting a regional forum in the future, the effect is conditioned by a state‟s level of development. This conditional effect is due to variation in a state‟s available resources and learning capacity. I test my expectations using newly-collected original data on the initiation of and ruling issued by the forum in trade disputes at the dispute settlement bodies associated with the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the World Trade Organization (WTO) between 1995 and 2010. I find that previous experience at the NAFTA in disputes in the same subject area and across subject areas increases the likelihood of initiating a current NAFTA dispute in a particular subject area relative to initiating a WTO dispute. In line with my expectations, I find that the effects of each different type of previous experience are conditioned by development status. These results demonstrate that the NAFTA dispute settlement mechanism has acted as a stumbling block toward multilateral trade dispute resolution.
Following the Food Trail, or What’s for Dinner?

The Ancestors went where the food was just as present-day Homo sapiens sapiens do; only we speak of going where the jobs are. They found food or moved elsewhere. But did they have an adequate diet? In discussing possible causes of death and the short length of life, we alluded to the possible effects of inadequate diets and food deficiencies. In this chapter we shall delve further into health problems that may be traceable to the foods eaten.
Media and Social Movements

Abstract Contemporary social movements engage in a complicated and uneasy dance with the mass media. Historically, movements have typically had their own media, controlled by movement participants and directed at the people they hoped to rally to their cause. Where mass media were once peripheral to understanding movements, in the last half-century, with the rise of television, they have become central. It is no longer possible to understand the actions of contemporary movements without understanding the nature of the movement–mass media transaction. This article introduces the reader to the critical role of mass media for social movements as sites of contest and indicator of broader cultural changes in the civil society. The article describes the role of mass media in the social construction of meaning that shapes language use and political consciousness of individuals in society. The concept of media structural opportunities is presented and discussed, and the strategic implications of the constant interaction of social movements with media are discussed.
Equilibrium ion partitioning between aqueous salt solutions and inhomogeneous ion exchange membranes.

Abstract This study investigates the ability of a recently proposed thermodynamic framework (i.e., Donnan/Manning model) to quantify equilibrium ion partitioning between aqueous salt solutions and inhomogeneous (i.e., phase separated) ion exchange membranes. Two inhomogeneous cation exchange membranes (CEMs) and one homogeneous anion exchange membrane (AEM), which served as a basis for comparison, were synthesized via free radical polymerization. Surface characterization of the membranes via cryogenic scanning electron microscopy revealed the inhomogeneous structure of the CEMs and the reasonably homogeneous structure of the AEM. Equilibrium ion concentrations in membranes equilibrated with NaCl, KCl, or MgCl2 solutions were experimentally measured. The experimental results were interpreted via a thermodynamic model based on Donnan theory and Manning's counter-ion condensation theory. The framework predicted NaCl partitioning in the AEM, presumably due to its reasonably homogeneous structure, but failed to predict NaCl partitioning in the CEMs when the Manning parameter, ξ, was calculated assuming a homogeneous membrane. For the inhomogeneous CEMs, the Manning parameter was used as an adjustable constant, which was extracted from the NaCl sorption results. Remarkably, the value of ξ obtained from the NaCl sorption results accurately predicted KCl and MgCl2 sorption in the two CEMs over the entire salt concentration range considered.