cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Marketing foods to children and adolescents: licensed characters and other promotions on packaged foods in the supermarket.

Objective To analyse cross-promotions targeted to children and adolescents on packaging in the supermarket. Design On three occasions from 2006 to 2008, researchers purchased all foods in a large supermarket that included a cross-promotion on the package. A total of 397 products were categorized by promotional partner, food category, targeted age group, promotion type, product nutrition, and company policies on marketing to children. Results The number of products with youth-oriented cross-promotions increased by 78 % during the period examined. Overall, 71 % of cross-promotions involved third-party licensed characters and 57 % appealed primarily to children under 12 years of age; however, the use of other forms of promotions increased from 5 % of the total in 2006 to 53 % in 2008, and promotions targeting pre-school and general audiences increased from 23 % to 54 % of the total. Only 18 % of products met accepted nutrition standards for foods sold to youth, and nutritional quality declined during the period examined. Food manufacturers with policies limiting marketing to children represented 65 % of all youth-oriented cross-promotions, their use of cross-promotions increased significantly, and the nutritional quality of their products did not improve. Some media companies did reduce the use of their properties on food promotions. Conclusions Overall, the supermarket environment worsened due to an increase in cross-promotions targeted to children and adolescents and a decline in the nutritional quality of these products. This analysis failed to find improvements in food marketing to youth and highlights the need to expand current industry self-regulatory pledges.
Axiom Schemes for $M$-Valued Functional Calculi of First Order: Part I. Definition of Axiom Schemes and Proof of Plausibility

A calculus, or its formalization, is m -valued when its truth-functions are allowed to take truth-values ranging from 1 through m . It is customary to divide the m truth-values that are possible into those that are “designated” and those that are “undesignated.” Furthermore, it is usually desired of a formalization that provable formulas and only provable formulas take designated truth-values exclusively. For our present purposes, we shall suppose that the truth-values 1, …, 8 are designated and the truth-values 8+1, …, m are undesignated. When calculi differ in respect to the number of their designated truth-values, we shall consider them different calculi, even if they are otherwise similar.
Identification of AMP-activated protein kinase targets by a consensus sequence search of the proteome.

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a heterotrimeric serine/threonine protein kinase that is activated by cellular perturbations associated with ATP depletion or stress. While AMPK modulates the activity of a variety of targets containing a specific phosphorylation consensus sequence, the number of AMPK targets and their influence over cellular processes is currently thought to be limited. We queried the human and the mouse proteomes for proteins containing AMPK phosphorylation consensus sequences. Integration of this database into Gaggle software facilitated the construction of probable AMPK-regulated networks based on known and predicted molecular associations. In vitro kinase assays were conducted for preliminary validation of 12 novel AMPK targets across a variety of cellular functional categories, including transcription, translation, cell migration, protein transport, and energy homeostasis. Following initial validation, pathways that include NAD synthetase 1 (NADSYN1) and protein kinase B (AKT2) were hypothesized and experimentally tested to provide a mechanistic basis for AMPK regulation of cell migration and maintenance of cellular NAD+ concentrations during catabolic processes. This study delineates an approach that encompasses both in silico procedures and in vitro experiments to produce testable hypotheses for AMPK regulation of cellular processes.
Impact of primary prophylaxis with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor on febrile neutropenia and mortality in adult cancer patients receiving chemotherapy : A systematic review

Purpose Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of prophylactic granulocyte colony-stimulating factors (G-CSF) have demonstrated a significant reduction in febrile neutropenia (FN) after systemic chemotherapy. Several RCTs have been published recently that investigate the impact of G-CSF on mortality and relative dose-intensity (RDI). Methods A comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis of all reported RCTs comparing primary prophylactic G-CSF with placebo or untreated controls in adult solid tumor and malignant lymphoma patients was undertaken without language restrictions, using electronic databases, conference proceedings, and hand-searching techniques. Two reviewers extracted data independently. Summary estimates of relative risk (RR) with 95% CIs were estimated based on the method of Mantel-Haenszel and DerSimonian and Laird. Results Seventeen RCTs were identified including 3,493 patients. For infection-related mortality, RR reduction with G-CSF compared with controls was 45% (RR = 0.55; 95% CI, 0...
25-Hydroxyvitamin D3-23-hydroxylase, a renal enzyme in several animal species.

Abstract The presence of 23,25-dihydroxyvitamin D 3 has been demonstrated in vivo and in vitro by a number of laboratories. In order to evaluate the significance of 23-hydroxylation, renal 23-hydroxylase activity was compared to renal 24-hydroxylase activity in several species before and after treatment with 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D 3 . The maximum activity of 23-hydroxylase varied widely among species. Treatment of animals with 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D 3 24 h and again 2 h prior to assay of renal tissue resulted in a 1.7- to 5.2-fold increase in 23-hydroxylase activity and a 3.8- to 20.6-fold increase in 24-hydroxylase activity compared to untreated controls. Maximum activity for both 23- and 24-hydroxylase required the enzyme substrate, 25-hydroxyvitamin D 3 , and an optimum concentration (30 m m ) of an oxidizable substrate such as l -malate to supply the reducing equivalents of NADPH needed. Addition of 10 μmol of magnesium chloride resulted in 19 and 24% increases in activity for 23- and 24-hydroxylase, respectively. l -Malate supported the hydroxylation reactions better than succinate, α-ketoglutarate, or pyruvate. The apparent K m of calf renal 23-hydroxylase was 5.7 ± 1.0 μ m and of 24-hydroxylase, 2.0 ± 0.2 μ m . Apparent K m 's for 23-hydroxylase varied from a low of 2.7 ± 0.3 μ m in the sheep to a high of 19.1 ± 0.5 μ m in the chick, and for 24-hydroxylase from 0.5 ± 0.1 μ m for the chick to 2.0 ± 0.2 μ m for the calf. Maximum velocity values ( V max ) ranged from 40 ± 9 pmol/min/g for 23-hydroxylase in the chick to 396 ± 92 in the calf, and for 24-hydroxylase from 108 ± 89 pmol/min/g in the chick to 851 ± 88 in the pig. These results help explain the in vivo metabolite concentrations and the predominance of the C(24)-over C(23)-oxidation pathways. Renal 23-hydroxylase was similar to 24-hydroxylase in that it was inhibited by carbon monoxide (63%), cyanide (51%), and antimycin (67%), required molecular oxygen, and functioned best at physiological pH 7.4. It was also inhibited by p -chloromercuribenzoate (39%), but not by dinitrophenol. The relatively large amount of 23-hydroxylase activity present in renal tissue of the calf and young chicks, dogs, goats, pigs, rats, mice, and sheep suggests a prominent role for this enzyme in vitamin D metabolism.
The diabetes care and education provided by nurses working in physicians' offices.

This paper describes the diabetes care and education provided to 290 diabetic patients by 47 nurses working in primary care physi cians' offices in two Michigan communities. The study utilized data...
Carrying Capacity and Population Regulation: A Comment on Dewar

In this commentary Keegan Johnson and Earle respond to Dewars earlier article on the anthropological use of the carrying capacity concept. It is noted that the carrying capacity model can provide an accurate general description of human population growth in a resource-limited environment. The data show that population growth can be regulated by density-dependent factors although the actual factors regulating the population may vary. However applications of this model are limited by our ability to demonstrate that a population is regulated by a density-dependent factor at a specific point in time. On the other hand if the carrying capacity concept is recognized as simply a general supply and demand model the relationship can be expressed in more operational terms. Potential resources and technology are components of the aggregate variable supply whereas population size provides an adequate measure of aggregate demand. These aggregate variables are measures of total effects; they leave unspecified the variables that produced these totals. Optimization analysis offers a means of operationalizing the general supply-demand model. Supply is analyzed as the optimal return of a currency per unit constraint and demand is measured as population size. Then elasticity analysis can be used to measure the sensitivity of population growth to specific currency inputs. In the reply to Keegan et al Dewar concedes that supply-demand models can be usefully applied in anthropology but notes that their application to population growth patterns may be premature. Moreover Keegan et al are criticized for their statement that the growth rate under density independent conditions should approximate the maximum instantaneous rate of increase. In fact this rate can be observed only in populations with superabundant food no predators no diseases no parasites and no competitors.
Novel optimization strategy to improve fuel economy for heavy-duty trucks

Many fuel consumption improvements for heavy-duty diesel engines have been achieved in the area of control and calibration. Few have addressed methods of improving fuel consumption during highway cruising. Since cruise control is activated most of the time during long trips, it should be seen as a viable option for improving fuel economy. If environmental changes and resulting engine load changes can be anticipated, the cruise control operation can be optimized with respect to fuel efficiency. We propose three cruise control reference-shaping strategies to improve engine efficiency and reduce truck on-highway cruising fuel consumption. These strategies would use GPS and computerized terrain maps to predict upcoming engine load changes in order to improve fuel economy. Assumptions are identified and appropriate constraints imposed on the fuel consumption, vehicle speed and nominal mission time. The algorithms of the three shaping strategies predict torque in order to prevent engine lug back and improve fuel economy. The algorithms were tested using a Matlab simulation on five routes. On average over the routes, fuel improvement of 1.77% was achieved.
Depressive symptoms as a predictor of cognitive decline: MacArthur Studies of Successful Aging.

Objective The prevalence of dementia continues to rise, and yet, there are few known modifiable risk factors. Depression, as a treatable condition, may be important in the development of dementia. Our objective was to examine the association between depressive symptoms and longitudinal cognitive changes in older adults who were high-functioning at baseline. Methods The authors analyzed data from a community-based cohort (aged 70–79 at baseline), who, at study entry, scored 7 or more (out of 9) on the Short Portable Mental Status Questionnaire (SPMSQ). Depressive symptoms were assessed at baseline using the depression subscale of the Hopkins Symptom Check List. Cognitive performance was measured at baseline and at seven-year follow up by the SPMSQ and by summary scores from standard tests of naming, construction, spatial recognition, abstraction, and delayed recall. Results After adjusting for potential confounders, including age, education, and chronic health conditions such as diabetes, heart attack, stroke, and hypertension, a higher number of baseline depressive symptoms were strongly associated with greater seven-year decline in cognitive performance and with higher odds of incident cognitive impairment, i.e., decline in SPMSQ score to ≤6 (adjusted odds ratio per quartile of depressive symptoms score: 1.34, 95% confidence interval: 1.10–1.68). Conclusions Depressive symptomatology independently predicts cognitive decline and incident cognitive impairment in previously high-functioning older persons.
Coelomic epithelium is necessary for containing organ-specific diffusible signals

Abstract Introduction: During embryogenesis, developing organs are in direct apposition to one another. The coelomic epithelium (peritoneal anlage) has barrier properties and its removal adversely affects development. We hypothesize that coelomic epithelium contains signals within a developing organ to prevent inappropriate attenuation of signals. Methods: Pancreas was harvested from day 11 mouse embryos. Several experimental systems were used: apposition of organs with and without enveloping coelomic epithelium; transfilter experiments; cultures to allow regrowth of coelomic epithelium in the absence of underlying mesenchyme. Results: Differentiation of embryonic pancreas in the presence of mesenchyme, but absence of coelomic epithelium, led to decreased acinar tissue and overabundance of endocrine differentiation. These results suggest a loss of acinar-specific mesenchymal factors, and support coelomic epithelium as a barrier that contains signals. Isolated pancreatic epithelium was unable to differentiate significantly if coelomic epithelium-enveloped mesenchyme on the opposite side of a filter. Importantly, however, endocrine differentiation occurred if the coelomic epithelium had been removed from the mesenchyme on the opposite side of the filter, confirming a role for coelomic epithelium in containing signals. An instructive role for coelomic epithelium was ruled out using a culture system in which coelomic epithelium regrows over epithelium in the absence of mesenchyme. Here, no differentiation of the underlying epithelium was seen. Conclusions: These results support a novel concept in developmental biology, wherein coelomic epithelium serves to compartmentalize organs during growth, preventing diffusion out of critical morphogenic signals.
Measuring Collective Efficacy: A Multilevel Measurement Model for Nested Data.

This article specifies a multilevel measurement model for survey response when data are nested. The model includes a test–retest model of reliability, a confirmatory factor model of interitem reliability with item-specific bias effects, an individual-level model of the biasing effects due to respondent characteristics, and a neighborhood-level model of construct validity. We apply this model for measuring informal social control within collective efficacy theory. Estimating the model on 3,260 respondents nested within 123 Seattle neighborhoods, we find that measures of informal control show reasonable test–retest and interitem reliability. We find support for the hypothesis that respondents’ assessments of whether their neighbors would intervene in specific child deviant acts are related to whether they have observed such acts in the past, which is consistent with a cognitive model of survey response. Finally, we find that, when proper measurement models are not used, the effects of some neighborhood cova...
Differential remodeling after balloon overstretch injury and either β- or γ-intracoronary radiation of porcine coronary arteries

Abstract Background: Restenosis is a consequence of both neointimal hyperplasia and vessel remodeling. Prior studies have shown that intracoronary radiation (IR) prevents neointima accumulation, but its contribution to vessel remodeling is unknown. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of IR on differential vascular remodeling after balloon angioplasty in porcine coronary arteries. Methods: A total of 20 juvenile swine (30 coronary arteries) were subjected to overstretch balloon injury (BI) followed by IR with either β- or γ-radiation ( 90 Y or 192 Ir). After 2 weeks following treatment, serial tissue sections were perfusion fixed and stained by hematoxylin and eosin (HE control: 3.6±0.7 mm 2 ). In contrast, the DReg was increased following IR, as demonstrated by the FL and the calculated area of the injured segment (control: 2.7±0.5 mm 2 ; β: 5.5±1.1 mm 2 , γ: 5.5±1.1 mm 2 , P Conclusion: We consider that the global arterial remodeling after IR is a heterogeneous process that includes the absence of retraction in an UReg and a positive remodeling in the DReg as shown in the porcine coronary model. These changes in adventitia and neointima appear to contribute to differential vascular remodeling caused by IR in injured vessels.
Synthesis of radioiodinated N-succinimidyl iodobenzoate: optimization for use in antibody labelling.

Abstract N-succinimidyl-3-(tri-n-butylstannyl)benzoate (m-BuATE), N-succinimidyl-3-(tri-methylstannyl)benzoate (m-MeATE) and N-succinimidyl-4-(tri-n-butylstannyl)benzoate (p-BuATE) were synthesized and radioiodinated using either N-chlorosuccinimide (NCS) or t-butylhydroperoxide (TBHP) as the oxidant. Radiohalogenation of m-MeATE proceeded more rapidly than m-BuATE. NCS was the more efficient oxidant at reaction times
Forcible rape, poverty, and economic inequality in U.S. metropolitan communities

In this paper we review and extend a recent analysis of the structural determinants of forcible rape by Smith and Bennett (1985) that builds upon the theoretical works of Blau and Blau (1982) and Schwendinger and Schwendinger (1983). They find that poverty, but not racial economic inequality, is a major contributor to the rape problem. Our replication and extension of their study question these findings and point to serious theoretical and methodological limitations of their analysis. Correcting for these difficulties, we find support for Blau and Blau's argument that high rates of metropolitan rape are an apparent “cost” of general and racial economic inequality (two forms of relative deprivation) but not poverty (absolute deprivation). The analysis strongly suggests that the rape problem is not beyond the reach of general and racial economic reform.
How many proteins does it take to gate hair cell mechanotransduction

Mechanosensory hair cells of the inner ear transduce sound or head motion into electrical signals through the gating of mechanically coupled ion channels. Although many cell types can respond to mechanical force (1), the disposition of mechanotransduction (MT) channels to the very tips of stereocilia (2, 3) confers onto hair cells of the inner ear their specialized sensitivity (4, 5). Differential deflection of the stereociliary tips is transmitted to the MT channels via extracellular “tip-links” that extend between taller and shorter stereocilia (6⇓–8). The tip-links are composed of cadherin 23 and protocadherin 15 (5), the latter of which forms the lower end coupled to the MT gating complex. Positional cloning of a human deafness locus identified transmembrane channel-like protein isoforms (TMC)1 and TMC2 as potential components of the MT complex (9). TMC1 and TMC2 interact with protocadherin 15 (10) and have been nominated as subunits of the …
The discrete Sloan iterate for the generalized airfoil equation

Abstract We have defined and established the superconvergence of the Sloan iterate obtained from a polynomial Galerkin approximation for solving the generalized airfoil equation. When all the integrals involved are evaluated by using Gaussian quadratures with the same number of nodes as basis elements, the resulting discrete Sloan iterate becomes the Nystrom approximation obtained by using the same rules. From this it follows that the discrete Sloan iterate v n and the discrete Galerkin approximation v n agree at the quadrature nodes. Thus v n converges no faster locally than v n . For practical purposes, computational superconvergence does not occur.
Infrared Power Spectral Density Diurnal Variations And Clutter Rejection Scaling Laws For Focal Plane Arrays

The diurnally varying IR imagery obtained from different field of view (FOV) is studied for the purpose of Wiener's whitening technique to be implemented in the image domain for real time clutter rejection. The measured power spectral density (PSD) on a focal plane arrays (FPA) is derived in terms of the propagation of the correlation of the ground irradiance lλ(e): PSD(k) = , where λ is the IR wavelength, eo is an arbitrary point within the downward FOV, the angular brackets denote an ensemble average, and H is the height above the ground. A combined measure of both dynamic ranges and resolution line pairs that can explain the thermal contrast and the diurnal variations is derived from Rayleigh's visibility V(r ) by means of Taylor series expansion and logarithmic derivative of the measured temperature fluctuation correlation function C(r )= , such that V(r ) = (r /2)•(d log C(r )/dr ). The measured PSD(k ) at FPA reveals systematically a diurnal trend of the power law variation of all FOV sceneries, |k |-D-1 where D = 0, 1, 2, 3. Consequently Wigner distribution W( k ,x 0) is introduced to generalize the Wiener PSD(k) to include the nonstationary FOV ye. Spatiotemporal filtering for clutter-rejection is a Wiener and Wigner whitening procedure in the sense of whitening in matching with the FOV. Analytical scaling laws of clutter leakage ≈en/1D+1 useful for FPA designs have been derived in terms of a step size FPA resolution parameter e=kcxs/2, the filter differencing order n, and a projected ground correlation length L at the FPA l=(D0H|λR2L, where k c is the optical cutoff frequency (D0/λf 0), expressed in terms of the lens aperture D0, the focal length f 0, and the pixel separation distance xs, and the slant range R. Finally, the optical bench flight scene simulator is implemented using stationary scene input at a fixed FOV, and the optical flow on the moving platform FPA is derived. An apparent scene velocity along the radial direction / from a fixed point (x0,y0) on EPA is generated from a stationary input scene, on the FPA v (x ,y )=(f0H/R2)Ul sin[(x-x0)2+ (y-y0)2)1/2]where U is the platform velocity component in parallel to the ground.© (1986) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Absolute differential cross sections for the excitation of molecular oxygen by electron impact: Decomposition of the Schumann-Runge continuum

Using a crossed-beam method, we have measured electron-energy-loss spectra for the excitation of the Schumann-Runge continuum of molecular oxygen. The scattering angle and electron-impact energy ranges covered were 12\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}--156\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} and 15--50 eV, respectively. By means of computerized least-squares analysis, we decomposed the spectra into contributions from three superposed Gaussian line shapes. The two lowest in energy are identified as representing excitation of the ${1}^{3}$${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\Pi}}}_{\mathit{g}}$(v) and ${\mathit{B}}^{3}$${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\Sigma}}}_{\mathit{u}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}}$(v) states. The other line shape cannot be definitively identified, but we discuss several possibilities for its meaning. Absolute differential and integrated cross sections for all three states are obtained, along with linear electronic potential-energy curves for the Franck-Condon region.
The Adolescent Resilience Model and Interventions to Promote Resilience-Critique:

This critique will further explore Dr Haase’s work on interventions to enhance resilience in adolescents with cancer, focusing on the clinical aspects of the Resilience Enhancement Adolescent Profile (REAP) intervention. To summarize, the REAP intervention is composed of (a) development of an individualized family and adolescent profile near the time of diagnosis; (b) standardized, multidisciplinary review of the profile with development of a care plan; and (c) a series of 6 sessions with the adolescent and the family if the adolescent desires. The first session includes presentation of the profile and care plan to the adolescent and the family. Subsequent sessions focus on specific protective factors.
Bis(n-octylamino)perylene-3,4:9,10-bis(dicarboximide)s and their radical cations: Synthesis, electrochemistry, and ENDOR spectroscopy

1,6- and 1,7-bis(n-octylamino)perylene-3,4:9,10-bis(dicarboximide) were synthesized by reaction of n-octylamine with the corresponding dibromo compounds. These compounds display intense charge-transfer optical transitions in the visible spectrum (∼550−750 nm) and fluoresce weakly (ΦF < 0.06). Cyclic voltammetry reveals that each chromophore undergoes facile and reversible oxidation and reduction. Spectroelectrochemical studies show that the radical cations of these chromophores are stable and show no signs of deprotonation of the secondary amines. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) and electron−nuclear double resonance (ENDOR) studies of the chemically generated radical cations of these chromophores corroborate the spectroelectrochemical data by showing that the radical cations persist for days at room temperature in methylene chloride solution. These experiments and complementary density functional theory (DFT) calculations provide a comprehensive picture of the molecular orbitals, spin density distri...
Rule based modeling for planning axisymmetrical deep-drawing

Abstract This paper summarizes contemporary knowledge of deep-drawing axisymmetrical parts in a rule form that can be directly utilized by an automated process-planning procedure. The model is concerned with determining the main operational parameters and the feasibility of metal-flow for given deformation variables. It incorporates empirical formulations, pressworking practice and plasticity knowledge, with the analytic component having priority whenever its validity has been verified. The rules are organized in four categories: “design”, “test”, “rectify” and “compute”. Rules that design the sequence of drawing operations and the specifications of each operation (the sequence and the operations all in hypothesis fashion) are grouped in category I. Category II includes rules that test the validity of each operation. Validity is satisfied if flow stress in every moving zone is reached and the operation is completed without defects. Rules in category III are designated to rectify the design of an unacceptable operation or of unacceptable sequence of operations. Category IV consists of computational rules that make formulation more structured and the search more efficient. An automated reasoning program, controlled by a “Hypothesize and Test-and-Rectify” tactic manipulates the deep-drawing rules to generate a process plan. The input to that system is a CAM representation of the required cup and the output is the sequence of deep-drawing operations that produces it.
Fatty acid (FFA) transport in cardiomyocytes revealed by imaging unbound FFA is mediated by an FFA pump modulated by the CD36 protein.

Free fatty acid (FFA) transport across the cardiomyocyte plasma membrane is essential to proper cardiac function, but the role of membrane proteins and FFA metabolism in FFA transport remains unclear. Metabolism is thought to maintain intracellular FFA at low levels, providing the driving force for FFA transport, but intracellular FFA levels have not been measured directly. We report the first measurements of the intracellular unbound FFA concentrations (FFAi) in cardiomyocytes. The fluorescent indicator of FFA, ADIFAB (acrylodan-labeled rat intestinal fatty acid-binding protein), was microinjected into isolated cardiomyocytes from wild type (WT) and FAT/CD36 null C57B1/6 mice. Quantitative imaging of ADIFAB fluorescence revealed the time courses of FFA influx and efflux. For WT mice, rate constants for efflux (∼0.02 s−1) were twice influx, and steady state FFAi were more than 3-fold larger than extracellular unbound FFA (FFAo). The concentration gradient and the initial rate of FFA influx saturated with increasing FFAo. Similar characteristics were observed for oleate, palmitate, and arachidonate. FAT/CD36 null cells revealed similar characteristics, except that efflux was 2–3-fold slower than WT cells. Rate constants determined with intracellular ADIFAB were confirmed by measurements of intracellular pH. FFA uptake by suspensions of cardiomyocytes determined by monitoring FFAo using extracellular ADIFAB confirmed the influx rate constants determined from FFAi measurements and demonstrated that rates of FFA transport and etomoxir-sensitive metabolism are regulated independently. We conclude that FFA influx in cardiac myocytes is mediated by a membrane pump whose transport rate constants may be modulated by FAT/CD36.
Predictability Limitations of Long-Range Sound Propagation

Abstract : Our long-term scientific goal is to understand the basic physics of low-frequency long-range sound propagation in the ocean, and the effects of environmental variability on signal stability and coherence. We seek to understand the fundamental limits to signal processing imposed by ocean variability to enable advanced signal processing techniques, including matched field processing and other adaptive array processing methods.
Nonlinear dynamics of flexible structures: geometrically exact formulation and stability

The stability of flexible structures coupled with rigid bodies performing large overall motions is investigated. The analysis is based on geometrically exact models which have no restriction on the degree of flexibility and enjoy the exact satisfaction of all invariance requirements under superposed rigid body motions. For these models there is a natural decomposition which decouples the dynamics into a space of rigid body motions and its complement. The stability of relative equilibria are then explored by a method referred to as the energy-momentum method, which incorporates the conserved quantities of the system. By exploiting these invariants along with the underlying structure, stability criteria for the relative equilibria can be found. >
Death, Hospitalization, and Economic Associations among Incident Hemodialysis Patients with Hematocrit Values of 36 to 39%

Abstract . Anemia treatment with epoetin has led to dramatic increases in hematocrit levels since 1989. Studies have demonstrated that morbidity and mortality rates are lower when hematocrit values are within the Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (DOQI) target range (33 to 36%). Recently, clinical studies demonstrated that patients without cardiovascular disease exhibited lower morbidity rates and improved cognitive function with hematocrit values of >36%. One prospective trial, in contrast, demonstrated that normal hematocrit values among patients with cardiac disease were associated with higher mortality rates. These conflicting results have led to concerns regarding the risks and benefits associated with hematocrit values between 36 and 42%. To address these concerns, a recent cohort of 1996 to 1998 incident hemodialysis patients was studied, with assessments of the risks of death and hospitalization and the medical costs associated with hematocrit values of >36%. Patients survived at least 9 mo after dialysis initiation, and comorbidity, disease severity, and hematocrit levels were determined for months 4 to 9. Patients were grouped on the basis of hematocrit values, i.e. ,
Glutathione peroxidase 1-deficient mice are more susceptible to doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity.

Doxorubicin (DOX)-induced cardiotoxicity is thought to be mediated by the generation of superoxide anion radicals (superoxide) from redox cycling of DOX in cardiomyocyte mitochondria. Reduction of superoxide generates H2O2, which diffuses throughout the cell and potentially contributes to oxidant-mediated cardiac injury. The mitochondrial and cytosolic glutathione peroxidase 1 (Gpx1) primarily functions to eradicate H2O2. In this study, we hypothesize that Gpx1 plays a pivotal role in the clearance of H2O2 generated by DOX. To test this hypothesis, we compared DOX-induced cardiac dysfunction, mitochondrial injury, protein nitration, and apoptosis in Gpx1-deficient and wild type mouse hearts. The Gpx1-deficient hearts showed increased susceptibility to DOX-induced acute functional derangements than wild type hearts, including impaired contractility and diastolic properties, decreased coronary flow rate, and reduced heart rate. In addition, DOX treatment impaired the mitochondrial function of Gpx1-deficient hearts. Specifically, Gpx1-deficient hearts treated with DOX demonstrated an increased rate of NAD-linked state 4 respiration and a decline in the P/O ratio relative to wild type hearts, suggesting that DOX uncouples the electron transfer chain and oxidative phosphorylation in Gpx1-deficient hearts. Finally, apoptosis and protein nitration were significantly increased in Gpx1-deficient mouse hearts compared to wild type hearts. These studies suggest that Gpx1 plays significant roles in protecting DOX-induced mitochondrial impairment and cardiac dysfunction in the acute phase.
Acceptability of Bacon as influenced by the Feeding of Elevated Levels of Monounsaturated Fats to Growing-finishing Swine

The acceptibility of bacon produced from swine fed diets containing elevated levels of oleic acid was evaluated. Slicing yields and sensory scores for overall palatability and flavor quality were lower for bacon produced from swine fed canola oil (P < 0.05). A higher percentage of panelists detected off-flavors in canola oil bacon than in bacon produced from swine fed safflower oil, sunflower oil, animal fat or a typical corn-soybean meal diet (P < 0.05).
Time Work by Overworked Professionals Strategies in Response to the Stress of Higher Status

How are professionals responding to the time strains brought on by the stress of their higher status jobs? Qualitative data from professionals reveal (a) general acceptance of the emerging temporal organization of professional work, including rising time demands and blurred boundaries around work/ nonwork times and places, and (b) time work as strategic responses to work intensification, overloads, and boundarylessness. We detected four time-work strategies: prioritizing time, scaling back obligations, blocking out time, and time shifting of obligations. These strategies are often more work-friendly than family-friendly, but "blocking out time" and "time shifting" suggest promising avenues for work-time policy and practice.
Defects in keratinocyte activation during wound healing in the syndecan-1-deficient mouse

Mice lacking syndecan-1 are viable, fertile and have morphologically normal skin, hair and ocular surface epithelia. While studying the response of these mice to corneal epithelial and skin wounding, we identified defects in epithelial cell proliferation and regulation of integrin expression. mRNA profiling of corneal epithelial tissues obtained from wild-type and syndecan-1(-/-) mice suggest that these defects result from differences in overall gene transcription. In the cornea, syndecan-1(-/-) epithelial cells migrate more slowly, show reduced localization of alpha9 integrin during closure of wounds and fail to increase their proliferation rate 24 hours after wounding. In the skin, we did not document a migration defect after full thickness wounds but did observe cell proliferation delays and reduced localization of alpha9 integrin in the syndecan-1(-/-) epidermis after dermabrasion. Despite increased cell proliferation rates in the uninjured syndecan-1(-/-) epidermis and the corneal epithelium, morphologically normal epithelial thickness is maintained prior to injury; however, wounding is accompanied by prolonged hypoplasia in both tissues. Analyses of integrin protein levels in extracts from full thickness skin, revealed increased levels of alpha3 and alpha9 integrins both prior to injury and after hair removal in syndecan-1(-/-) mice but no increase 2 days after dermabrasion. These data for the first time show involvement of alpha9 integrin in skin wound healing and demonstrate essential roles for syndecan-1 in mediating cell proliferation and regulation of integrin expression in normal and wounded epithelial tissues.
A model of the effect of image motion in the Radon transform domain

One of the most fundamental properties of the Radon (projection) transform is that shifting of the image results in shifted projections. This useful property relates translational motion in the image to simple displacement in the projections. It is far from clear, however, how more general types of motion in the image domain will be manifested in the projections. In this paper, we present a model for this phenomenon in the general case; namely, we develop a generalization of the shift property of the Radon transform. We study various properties of the apparent projected motion implied by the model, and study the case of affine motion in particular. We also present illustrative examples, and briefly discuss the inverse problem implied by the forward model developed herein, along with some possible applications.
The Digital Approximation of the Binomial by the Poisson

An old source can lead to looking at the Poisson approximation to the binomial in a new light.
A thermal-aware superscalar microprocessor

A thermal-aware technique is proposed to minimize the performance impact when thermal/power control mechanism is triggered. This technique, called thermal-aware microprocessor (TAM), uses on-chip thermal sensors to detect hot-spots within the microprocessor die. There is a secondary pipeline within the core. It is architecturally simple with ultra low power implementation. This secondary pipeline has two main functions: 1. thermal relieve; 2. ultra low power implementation for certain mobile environment (such as any where any time email connect function). When temperature exceeds a given threshold, the core superscalar pipelines are clock-gated while a secondary in-order pipeline is engaged. Since the secondary pipeline consumes much less power, it will have a much lower temperature, and therefore, it will provide a temporary thermal relieve to the core pipelines when the thermal/power mechanism is triggered. This relief reduces energy loss due to leakage, prevents overheating to improve product reliability, and eases cost for thermal solutions. The TAM can also combine with other low power techniques such voltage scaling to achieve ultra low power.
High-Current Reliability of Carbon Nanofibers for Interconnect Applications

We present a high-current reliability study of carbon nanofibers (CNFs) for interconnect applications. In situ scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) reveals structural damage to CNFs after current stress. The effect of heat dissipation on the current capacity is also discussed by using different experimental configurations. Long-time reliability tests are performed with a vertical via interconnect structure, showing promising high reliability of CNF interconnects for future electronic devices.
Estimating the Standard Error of the Maximum Likelihood Ability Estimator in Adaptive Testing Using the Posterior-Weighted Test Information Function

The standard error of the maximum likelihood ability estimator is commonly estimated by evaluating the test information function at an examinee's current maximum likelihood estimate (a point estimate) of ability. Because the test information function evaluated at the point estimate may differ from the test information function evaluated at an examinee's true ability value, the estimated standard error may be biased under certain conditions. This is of particular concern in adaptive testing because the height of the test information function is expected to be higher at the current estimate of ability than at the actual value of ability. This article proposes using the posterior-weighted test information function in computing the standard error of the maximum likelihood ability estimator for adaptive test sessions. A simulation study showed that the proposed approach provides standard error estimates that are less biased and more efficient than those provided by the traditional point estimate approach.
Virtual Execution Environments: Support and Tools

In today's dynamic computing environments, the available resources and even underlying computation engine can change during the execution of a program. Additionally, current trends in software development favor the flexibility and cost-effectiveness of dynamically loaded components and libraries. Because of these trends, there has been increased research interest in virtual execution environments (VEEs) for delivering adaptable software suitable for today's rapidly changing, heterogeneous computing environments. In this project, we have been investigating tools and techniques to support implementation of VEEs using software dynamic translation (SDT). This paper highlights some of our recent results. One significant result is that we have developed novel translation techniques that reduce the memory and runtime overhead of SDT to negligible levels. We have also developed innovative debugging and instrumentation tools for SDT-based software environments. Together, these results make SDT-based systems viable for solving a wide range of pressing problems. The paper concludes with a discussion of how SDT may offer a solution to one such problem-inherent process variation in emerging chip multiprocessors.
Desirability bias among professional investment managers: some evidence from experts

Desirability bias is the tendency to overpredict desirable outcomes and underpredict unwanted outcomes. Previous research suggests that this bias is quite pervasive among non-experts but there is very scant evidence of its intensity among experts. For at least twenty years, financial academics and, to a lesser extent, practicing investment managers have claimed that the financial markets are among the most efficient and bias free in existence. Therefore, this paper examines the degree of desirability bias among expert and practicing US and Taiwanese investment managers. The empirical results suggest that desirability bias does appear to be a characteristic of these experts. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
“Please, Morris, Don't Make Trouble”: Two Lessons in Courtroom Confrontation

Taking courtroom etiquette and decorum as a complex instance of socialization, the article explores current challenges to the courtroom as the last citadel of etiquette by looking in detail at two famous instances of courtroom confrontation: the Scopes trial in Dayton, Tennessee in 1925, and the Conspiracy trial before Judge Hoffman in Chicago in 1970. The article concludes with an assessment of the viability of the courtroom, given the current styles of protest.
Stochastic stability of nonlinear sampled data systems with a jump linear controller

This paper analyzes the stability of a sampled-data system consisting of a deterministic, nonlinear, time-invariant, continuous-time plant and a stochastic, discrete-time, jump linear controller. The jump linear controller models, for example, computer systems and communication networks that are subject to stochastic upsets or disruptions. This sampled-data model has been used in the analysis and design of fault-tolerant systems and computer-control systems with random communication delays without taking into account the inter-sample response. To analyze stability, appropriate topologies are introduced for the signal spaces of the sampled-data system. With these topologies, the ideal sampling and zero-order-hold operators are shown to be measurable maps. This paper shows that the known equivalence between the stability of a deterministic, linear sampled-data system and its associated discrete-time representation as well as between a nonlinear sampled-data system and a linearized representation holds even in a stochastic framework.
Altered ionic permeability in skeletal muscle from horses with hyperkalemic periodic paralysis

A recently described disorder in certain registered Quarter horses bears many clinical similarities to the muscle disease identified as hyperkalemic periodic paralysis (HPP) in humans. Pathological changes in membrane permeability or Na(+)-K+ pump activity have been proposed to produce the muscle depolarization and inexcitability that characterize the condition in humans. Biopsies of external intercostal muscle from normal and affected horses were used to determine whether alterations in either permeability and/or pump activity could be linked to the pathology in horses. Affected horse muscle is approximately 16 mV more depolarized than normal muscle at rest, and the muscle membrane potential of HPP horses is less responsive to changes in extracellular K+. Calculation of the relative membrane permeabilities of Na+ and K+ (PNa/PK) indicates that this ratio is significantly increased in HPP muscle. The increase is probably due to an increase in PNa rather than to a decrease in PK, since addition of 10(-6) M tetrodotoxin produces an approximately 14-mV membrane hyperpolarization in HPP fibers but is without effect in normal fibers. The clinical similarities between HPP in horses and humans suggest a common genetic defect in the two species.
Microdeterminants of Foreign Direct Investment into Developing Countries:Evidence from the Telecom Sector

Existing literature has established that foreign direct investment flows into countries with more attractive markets and fewer political risks. We argue that the level of foreign direct investment is instead caused by risk mitigants instituted by the government and the foreign investor, which are contingent on country fundamentals. We employ a novel dataset on the universe of foreign direct investments in the telecom services sector in 103 emerging economies from 1990-1999 that incorporates 25 strategic contracting institutions for the 597 deals. To test the contingent hypotheses, we specify a linear regression model that includes interactions constructed as cross-products of market attractiveness and market risk mitigants, on the one hand, and policy stability and political risk mitigants, on the other. We avoid common model misspecification by including all main effects underlying the interactions. Our results confirm that (i) market and political risk mitigants determine levels of FDI, (ii) market attractiveness and policy stability moderate the relationship between risk mitigants and FDI, and (iii) government-instituted mitigants matter most.
Caregiver involvement in behavioural health services in the context of child welfare service referrals: a qualitative study

Human service agencies serve a growing number of adults with behavioural health needs. Despite these agencies' key role in identifying need and facilitating services, many individuals do not receive care or end services prematurely. Few studies have explored the experiences of families referred to behavioural health services by such agencies or the extent to which families' perceptions of service need align with those of treatment providers and frontline workers. This study presents findings from a qualitative study of caregivers involved with child welfare agencies who were referred to behavioural health services. Researchers reviewed agencies' case records and conducted in-depth interviews with 16 caregivers, 9 child welfare caseworkers and 12 behavioural health treatment counsellors. Findings suggest that when deciding to engage in services, caregivers weigh not only their individual and family behavioural health needs but also potential agency intervention, including loss of child custody. Many professionals reported that involvement with a child welfare agency hindered the caregiver's disclosure of behavioural healthcare needs. Implications for managers and practitioners are discussed.