cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A pilot study of copper supplementation effects on plasma F2α isoprostanes and urinary collagen crosslinks in young adult women

Marginal copper deficiency has been proposed to occur frequently, but the benefits of correction remain largely uncharacterized. Two benefits could be reduced oxidant stress and better crosslinking of collagen in bone. Copper intake was increased in 8 female university students by supplementation with copper glycinate (2 mg copper/day) for 8 weeks. Supplementation improved copper status based on serum activity of two copper enzymes, ceruloplasmin and diamine oxidase (9% and 75% mean increase, respectively). No effect was seen for erythrocyte copper-zinc superoxide dismutase. Supplementation produced a 39% mean decrease in plasma for F(2alpha)-isoprostanes (a marker of oxidant stress), and gave a 62% increase in the urine ratio of collagen crosslinks to a measure of total collagen. None of the supplementation effects were duplicated for 8 women given placebo. In conclusion, this pilot study found that in young adult women, increased copper intake can alter biochemical parameters relevant to copper function.
An overview of intergranular stress corrosion cracking in BWRs

An overview of intergranular stress corrosion cracking (IGSCC) in boiling water reactors (BWRs) is presented. The simultaneous occurrence of three conditions are essential for the IGSCC in BWRs; stress, a sensitized microstructure, and an environment that will facilitate IGSCC. This overview paper discusses each essential condition and the remedies for IGSCC that modify each condition.
Adapting Engineering Education Curriculum for Global Competiveness in Developing Countries

Engineering education in developing countries is faced with many challenges. One of the key engineering education issues is curriculum adaptability to the growing regional needs as the countries evolve through their developmental process. This is usually dictated by the national infrastructure program development plans. In most cases, the electrical engineering curriculum for example is usually centered on power construction given the national need and evolves to include controls and communications. The civil engineering curriculum equally revolves around structures and surveying. This paper examines how the transition from one area of concentration is made given the prevailing technological divide between the developing countries and the developed countries and proposes some solutions that can help alleviate the obstacles confronting the engineering education in these countries.
Very late recurrences of atrial fibrillation after pulmonary vein isolation.

AbstractAtrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia, accounting for approximately one-third of all hospitalizations from cardiac rhythm disturbances. Over the past decade, catheter ablation (predominantly in the form of pulmonary vein isolation [PVI]) has become an important therapy in the treatment of patients with symptomatic, drug-refractory AF. Despite the improvements in technology, operator experience, and advances in methodology that have led to higher success rates and a reduction in complications, the recurrence rate of AF after PVI is still relatively high. Published studies suggest that approximately 33% to 86% of patients undergoing catheter ablation of AF have freedom from recurrent AF, with 30% to 40% requiring a second procedure. Although most studies looking at the efficacy of PVI are limited by relatively short follow-up, recent data suggest that patients with an initially favorable procedural response may have very late recurrences of AF, even years after PVI...
Monolithic reconfigurable bandstop filter using RF MEMS switches

A monolithic, low-power reconfigurable bandstop filter operating at 8, 10, 13, and 15 GHz that utilizes RF MEMS switches has been developed on high-resisitivity silicon substrate. The filter is based on microstrip transmission lines with radial stubs that provide different reactance at different resonant frequencies. Selection of the desired stub reactance is achieved with cantilever capacitive RF MEMS switches that are electrostatically actuated. The tuning range of the fabricated filter is 7 GHz (8–15 GHz), which is about 60p of the mid-band frequency. The rejection at the notch of the filter and the -10-dB bandwidth range from -20 dB to -27 dB and 5p to 9.7p, respectively, at the different resonant frequencies The pass-band insertion loss was found to be around 0.5 dB. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J RF and Microwave CAE 14: 373–382, 2004.
Retroviral mediated gene transduction alters integrin expression on vascular endothelial cells.

Abstract Genetically recombinant endothelial cells (rEC) may improve the patency of small diameter vascular grafts by preventing thrombosis or limiting neointimal hyperplasia. Previous work has shown that rEC have reduced adhesion to vascular bypass grafts in vivo. Poor adhesion may be due to altered adhesion (integrin) receptors. This study evaluated the expression of the α 5 β 1 (fibronectin), α 2 β 1 (collagen IV), and α v β 3 (vitronectin) integrin subunits on rEC. Human umbilical vein EC or canine jugular vein EC were transduced with neoR, neoR and human tPA or hygromycin resistance genes using retroviral vectors. Naive EC and EC exposed to empty viral particles (mEC) were controls. Naive EC, mEC, and all rEC's were evaluated for α and β subunits for each integrin receptor studied using immunoblotting. Blotting for α 2 , α 5 , and α v exhibited expression of the α integrin subunits in all cells. The β 1 and β 3 subunits were present in mEC and nEC but were absent or truncated in all rEC. The decreased adhesion of rEC's to synthetic vascular grafts may be accounted for by their altered β 1 and β 3 integrin subunit expression. The β subunit is critical for organization of the cytoskeleton and cellular signal transduction. Diminished β subunit expression in rEC is neither vector specific nor related to retroviral exposure alone. Alteration of β integrin expression may be to associated with the over-expression of phosphotransferase genes such as neoR or hygromycin B used as selectable markers in gene transfer protocols.
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

Abstract Complex regional pain syndrome remains an enigmatic condition to manage due to its diverse etiology, varying clinical course, and lack of definitive treatments that are universally effective. Though there continues to be debate with regards to the pathophysiology of CRPS, significant advances have been made in gaining deeper understanding of the peripheral and central pathophysiological mechanisms governing the development and elaboration of CRPS. The conceptual framework focuses on the neurobiological changes occurring peripherally and centrally and has enabled examination of linkages between changes in cutaneous innervation, release of inflammatory mediators, peripheral sensitization, involvement of the sympathetic system, and resultant central sensitization with cortical reorganization. These advances necessarily precede the much needed innovation in available treatment modalities. The current paradigm centers on a multimodal pharmacologic therapy in the setting of a comprehensive multidisciplinary team-based approach aimed at effective pain control, functional restoration, and modalities to enhance psychological well-being as important components of care. The use of other potential therapies aimed at the immunological/inflammatory basis of CRPS, including naltrexone (a glial cell modulator), and immunoglobulin IV are also considered in this chapter. Finally the role of neuromodulation (spinal cord stimulation) and possible use of intrathecal baclofen for refractory dystonia are addressed as options for appropriately selected patients.
Construction of equivalent stochastic differential equation models

It is shown how different but equivalent Ito stochastic differential equation models of random dynamical systems can be constructed. Advantages and disadvantages of the different models are described. Stochastic differential equation models are derived for problems in chemistry, textile engineering, and epidemiology. Computational comparisons are made between the different stochastic models.
Perceived stress and norepinephrine predict the effectiveness of response to protease inhibitors in HIV.

Background: In vitro evidence has suggested that increasing levels of norepinephrine (NE) can accelerate HIV replication; however, the importance in a clinical setting has not been tested. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine if perceived stress as well as the stress hormones NE and cortisol would predict the response to starting a new protease inhibitor (PI) prospectively. Method: Perceived stress, urinary cortisol and norepinephrine, CD4 and viral load (VL) were measured in people with HIV before starting a new PI and six months later (an average of three months after starting the new PI) in order to determine CD4 and VL response to the PI. Results: Higher perceived stress significantly predicted lower effectiveness of the new PI in increasing CD4 and decreasing VL controlling for age, duration of new PI, baseline CD4/VL, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and gender / ethnic risk groups. Higher norepinephrine, but not cortisol, predicted worse VL response to PIs and, in fact, mediated the relationship between perceived stress and change in VL. Conclusion: Perceived stress and high norepinephrine levels are prospectively associated with a poorer response to starting a new PI. Assessing stress and norepinephrine levels in patients starting on antiretroviral medications might be clinically useful.
An infrared band sensitive to regularity in polyacrylonitrile

Abstract Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) represents a particular challenge to any-one desiring to determine the nature of the order existing in polymers With X-ray and electron diffraction, only a few reflections are observed [1,2]. Questions of the type of order and whether or not it is truly crystalline in the three-dimensional sense still stimulate considerable controversy [1,2]. Infrared spectroscopic studies [3-61 of PAN have been limited by availability of regularity bands. We have recently observed a band in the infrared spectra of PAN which is sensitive to ordering. It is our purpose to report this observation so that other workers may make use of this band in their efforts to further characterize PAN.
Comparison of presentation, treatment, and outcome of acute myocardial infarction in men versus women (the myocardial infarction triage and intervention registry

This study compared the presentation (symptoms and signs), treatment, and outcome of 1,097 consecutive patients (851 men and 246 women) from the Myocardial Infarction Triage and Intervention (MITI) Project Registry with confirmed acute myocardial infarction (AMI), all of whom were initially evaluated in the prehospital setting, met clinical criteria for possible thrombolysis, and were followed throughout their hospital course. Women were older than men and had a higher prevalence of known cardiovascular risk factors, including systemic hypertension and congestive heart failure. The presentation of AMI with respect to symptoms, delay, and hemodynamic and electrocardiographic findings was for the most part indistinguishable between mean and women. Women appeared "undertreated" early in the course of AMI and were half as likely as men to undergo acute catheterization, angioplasty, thrombolysis, or coronary bypass surgery (odds ratio 0.5 [0.3 to 0.7]). The risk for hospital mortality in women was almost twice that for men (odds ratio 1.95 [1.01 to 3.8]). Hospital mortality after AMI was also independently predicted by older age, early evidence of hemodynamic instability, and an intraventricular conduction abnormality on the initial electrocardiogram. Although similar in its presentation, AMI in women is not as aggressively treated, and results in a less favorable outcome than in men. Gender as well as nongender-specific risk factors are important in assessing risk and the likelihood of early intervention after AMI.
Early childhood cultural capital, parental habitus, and teachers’ perceptions

Abstract Bourdieu's theory of cultural reproduction posits that social class differences in cultural capital and habitus begin in early childhood and cumulate over time. While the theory maintains popularity in sociological research, no consistent empirical relationship between cultural capital and the reproduction of educational inequality has been established in American research. This study focuses on a population that has not been studied in quantitative research on cultural capital and habitus—children in the early years of elementary school. Data from the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study are used to show that children's cultural activities have a positive effect on teachers’ evaluation of students’ language arts and mathematics skills, but only for low-socioeconomic status (SES) students. Only one aspect of parental habitus, expectations that the child will attain a bachelor's degree, has a consistent positive effect on teachers’ evaluations. These findings suggest that the traditional definition of cultural capital may not be appropriate for young American children, and that habitus should be included in future studies of educational stratification.
Minimizing errors associated with calculating the location of the helical axis for spinal motions

One of the more common comparative tools used to quantify the motion of the vertebral joint is the orientation and position of the (finite) helical axis of motion as well as the amount of translation along, and rotation about, this axis. A survey of recent studies that utilize the helical axis of motion to compare motion before and after total disc replacement reveals a lack of concern for the relative errors associated with this metric. Indeed, intrinsic algorithmic and experimental errors that arise when interpreting motion tracking data can easily lead to a misinterpretation of the changes caused by replacement disc devices. While previous studies examining these errors exist, most have overlooked the errors associated with the determination of the location of the helical axis and its intersection with a chosen plane. The purpose of the study presented in this paper was to evaluate the sensitivity and reliability of the helical axis of motion as a comparative tool for kinematically evaluating spinal prostheses devices. To this end, we simulated a typical spine biomechanics testing experiment to investigate the accuracy of calculating the helical axis and its associated parameters using several popular algorithms. The resultant data motivated the development of a new algorithm that is a hybrid of two existing algorithms. The improved accuracy of this hybrid method made it possible to quantify some of the changes to the kinematics of a spinal unit that are induced by distinct placements of a total disc replacement.
In Search of the Hagfish Thymus

The Pacific hagfish, Eptatretus stoutii , is capable of a variety of immunologic responses including allograft rejection and serum antibody production to soluble and cellular antigens. Interest has revived in the morphology of hagfish lymphoid tissues. The search for a thymus in young specimens has resulted in the discovery of a phagocytic and antigen-receptive cell population associated with the pharyngeal velar muscles. We suggest that a protothymus or precursor of the thymus of higher vertebrates may be contained within this velar muscle complex.
On Combining Forecasts: Some Extensions and Results

This paper is about the motivation, methodology, and evaluation of combining the forecasts from two or more different models in a "combined" forecast. Granger and Newbold Granger, C., P. Newbold. 1977. Forecasting Economic Time Series. Academic Press, New York. have presented this method as one whereby an "optimal" forecast can be obtained. Makridakis and Winkler 1966 and Winkler and Makridakis Winkler, R., S. Makridakis. 1983. The combination of forecasts: some empirical results. J. Roy. Statist. Soc., Ser. A146 150-157. have presented results to support this claim and Mahmoud Mahmoud, Essam. 1984. Accuracy in forecasting: a survey. J. Forecasting3 139-159. has reviewed over 20 articles all claiming that combined forecasts out perform single model forecasts. This paper extends this topic in a number of directions. First a section on motivation provides additional reasons for combining forecasts. Combination problems are then discussed in i¾§2, observations and evaluations of the problem presented are discussed in i¾§3 and concluding remarks are contained in i¾§4.
Quantitation of partially purified H-2 antigens by micro-complement fixation.

The micro-complement fixation test has been evaluated as an assay method for monitoring the purification of H-2 antigens. Antigens were extracted from spleen and tumor cell membranes with 3 M potassium chloride. The extracted antigens were measured in micro-complement fixation tests with polyspecific and monospecific anti-H-2 alloantisera at two steps in the purification process. In the initial steps of purification, partial complement fixation curves were obtained with H-2 antigens from spleen cells of three strains of mice and a complete curve with antigens from tumor cells. Antigens from spleen and tumor cells were measured also following separation on Sephadex G-200 and G-75. The data indicate that micro-complement fixation can be used as a direct, sensitive assay system for the purification of major histocompatibility antigens.
Investigation of the near-surface electronic structure of Cr(001).

An angle-resolved photoelectron spectroscopy (ARPES) study of Cr(001) near-surface electronic structure is presented. Measurements are reported for energy-band dispersions along the [010] direction parallel to the crystal surface. The periodicity of these band dispersions indicates that the valence electrons experience and self-consistently establish antiferromagnetism in the near-surface layers of Cr(001). We also present highly-surface-sensitive ARPES measurements of the energy-band dispersions along the [001] direction normal to the surface. The results suggest that the surface magnetic moments, which couple ferromagnetically to each other within the surface layer, couple antiferromagnetically to the moments of the atoms in the second layer. Temperature-dependent studies are presented that reveal the persistence of near-surface antiferromagnetic order for temperatures up to 2.5 times the bulk N\'eel temperature. The temperature dependence of this antiferromagnetic order suggests that its thermal stability derives in part from the stability of the Cr(001) ferromagnetic surface phase.
An Ecological Systems Perspective on Mentoring at Work: A Review and Future Prospects

After nearly 30 years as a subject of inquiry, mentoring remains a mainstay in the organizational literature, as relationships are arguably more important than ever to employees' personal and career growth. In this paper, we take an ecological perspective to situate and review topical areas of the literature with the intention of enhancing our understanding of how mentoring outcomes for proteges and mentors are determined not only by individual differences (e.g., personality) and dyadic factors (e.g., the quality of a relationship)—both of which represent the most frequently examined levels of analyses—but also the influences of the people from various social spheres comprising their developmental network, the larger organization of which they are a part, and macrosystem factors (e.g., technological shifts, globalization) that enable, constrain, or shape mentoring and other developmental relationships. Our review examines multi-level influences that shape mentoring outcomes, and brings into focus how the ...
Efficacy of therapeutic plasma exchange for treatment of stiff-person syndrome

Background The efficacy of therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) in stiff-person syndrome (SPS) is unclear. Study Design and Methods A retrospective analysis of patients diagnosed with SPS who underwent TPE and a systematic literature review were conducted. Results Nine patients with the presumptive diagnosis of SPS who underwent TPE were identified. The mean age was 55 years (range, 34-72 years) and 78% (n = 7) were female. Anti-GAD65 was present in 89% (n = 8) of the patients (range, 1.9-40,000 U/mL), and 33% (n = 3) had a history of diabetes. Forty-four percent (n = 4) of patients had previously received immunosuppressive medication and 67% (n = 6) received intravenous immune globulin. The main indication for TPE was worsening of symptoms despite treatment with first-line therapy. Seventy-eight percent of the patients (n = 7) had five TPE procedures. Seventy-eight percent (n = 7) of patients demonstrated at least minimal clinical improvement and 56% (n = 5) had a significant response. Most of the patients who demonstrated a significant response to treatment improved and their symptoms stabilized. Two patients (22%) developed adverse events, including catheter-associated infection and transient hypotension. Eighteen publications were found from the literature review, which resulted in a total of 26 patients diagnosed with SPS. Forty-two percent (n = 11) of patients had a significant symptomatic improvement after TPE treatment, and two patients (8%) developed adverse events. Conclusion TPE may benefit patients with SPS who are not responsive to first-line therapy, and it is well tolerated.
Dynamic Magma Systems, Crustal Recycling, and Alteration in the Central Sierra Nevada Batholith: the Oxygen Isotope Record

Values of δ 18 O of zircon from the central Sierra Nevada batholith (SNB), California, yield fresh insight into the magmatic evolution and alteration history of this classic convergent margin batholith. Direct comparison of whole-rock and zircon (Zrc) δ 18 O provides evidence for modest (0.5‰), but widespread, alteration, which has complicated interpretation in previous whole-rock δ 18 O studies. Four discrete belts of δ 18 O values are recognized in the central Sierra. A small belt of plutons with relatively low δ 18 O(Zrc) values (5·2–6·0‰) intrudes the foothills, with a sharp increase of δ 18 O revealing the concealed Foothills Suture; high δ 18 O(Zrc) values (7·0–8·5‰) dominate the rest of the western SNB. East of the axis of the Sierra, δ 18 O is distinctly lower (6·75–5·75‰), and decreases monotonically to the Sierra Crest. A sharp 1‰ increase of δ 18 O in the eastern Sierra reveals a second crustal boundary, with the fourth belt hosted in high-δ 18 O North American crust in the White Mountains and Owens and Long Valleys. Correlated O, Sr, and Pb isotope ratios reveal differences in magma generation between the western and eastern Sierra. The western Sierra experienced massive crustal recycling, with substantial melting and mobilization of accreted oceanic and volcanic arc rocks; crustal contamination affects many western SNB plutons. In contrast, the eastern Sierra was dominated by voluminous recycling of the lithospheric mantle and lower crust, with minimal crustal contamination. Batholith-wide shifts in δ 18 O occur between pulses of Cretaceous magmatism that may be linked to tectonic reorganizations of magma sources. Within intrusive suites, δ 18 O may be unchanged (Tuolumne); increase (Sonora and Whitney); or decrease (Sequoia and John Muir) with time. These trends show stable long-lived sources, or those where recycling and contamination may increase or decrease with time. Overall, δ 18 O reveals diverse magma system behavior at a range of scales in the Sierran arc.
Biolingüística y capacidad humana

Este articulo presenta de manera sucinta el enfoque llamado 'biolinguistico' que empezo a desarrollarse en los primeros anos de la posguerra, teniendo en cuenta los avances de la biologia y las matematicas. Se pasa revista a algunos postulados de la neurociencia (i.e. ciencia cognitiva) en lo concerniente a la 'facultad del lenguaje', asi como a los dos ultimos modelos de la GG: el modelo de 'Principios y Parametros' (P&P) y el modelo 'Minimalista'. Estos ultimos buscan responder las cuestiones fundamentales de la biologia del lenguaje, su naturaleza, uso y evolucion. Desde este punto de vista, se trata de caracterizar el equipamiento biologico gracias al cual los seres humanos adquieren una gramatica. Asi las cosas, se considera el equipamiento biologico como una funcion que asocia experiencia y gramatica.
Precise measurements of diatomic dissociationrates in shock waves

The dissociation of H 2 in mixtures of 5%, 10%, and 20% H 2 in Ar and Xe has been studiedbehind incident shock waves over the temperature range 3500°–8000°K. Dissociation rates were determined by measurement of postshock density gradients using a laser-beam deflection technique. The postshock density-gradient profiles exhibit the same highly characteristic “dip” observed previously with O 2 -rare gas mixtures [J. Chem. Phys. 55 , 4017 (1971)], and the magnitude of the gradient at this point is again interpreted as a measure of the initial dissociation rate. The over-all rate coefficients so obtained are of high precision, and the values determined for k d M , the coefficient due to H 2 -M collisions are given by k d Ar =9.35×10 13 exp(−88 900/ RT ) ce/mole-sec, k d Xe ≙ k d Ar , k d H 2 =3.30×10 15 exp(−105 300/ RT ) cc/mole-sec, with R in cal/mole-deg. By numerical integration of the measured density-gradient profile from the point of the initial rate measurement, the density, and thus the composition, temperature, and over-all rate coefficient, were determined at subsequent points in the reaction course. From this data, values of the hydrogen-atom coefficient were obtained which are described by k d H =2.12×10 15 exp(−87 200/ RT ) cc/mole-sec. Values for all the rate coefficients determined are in general agreement with previously reported values. More significantly, in contrast with the results of previous work, the data are of sufficient precision to provide strong support for the traditional assumptions concerning diatomic dissociation; i.e., the interpretation of the various k d M as true chemical rate “constants”.
Approach and Specimen Handling Do Not Influence Oncological Perioperative and Long-Term Outcomes After Laparoscopic Radical Nephrectomy

Purpose: We assessed the impact of approach (standard vs hand assisted) and specimen handling (morcellation vs intact extraction) on laparoscopic radical nephrectomy short-term recovery and long-term oncological outcome.Materials and Methods: Of 255 patients with pathologically confirmed and presumed localized renal cell carcinoma 147 underwent standard and 108 underwent hand assisted laparoscopic radical nephrectomy. Specimen handling was done by intact extraction in 132 cases and morcellation in 123. Perioperative data were recorded prospectively and oncological surveillance was reviewed retrospectively.Results: Despite significant differences in body mass index, mass size, T stage and pathological risk between the groups there were no statistically significant differences in perioperative outcome by approach or specimen handling except greater estimated blood loss (mean 406 vs 283 ml), longer hospital stay (mean 2.8 vs 2.4 days) and greater time to recovery (mean 13 vs 9.9 days) in the hand assisted vs...
Technology Assistance in Second Language Acquisition: Potentials and Limitations

Technology has revolutionized not only our daily lives but also the way education is practiced around the world. The impact of technology has been far and wide both in physical and social sciences, as well as in arts and humanities. This immense influence has been observed in second language (L2) teaching, acquisition, and research. In L2 instruction, for example, technological tools are used by: (1) practitioners for pedagogical advances; (2) learners for classroom and self- learning; (3) researchers for exploring the effects of technology on language teaching and learning (Bhatia & Ritchie, 2009). Although the use of technology to assist L2 acquisition has been under investigation for the past few decades, there is still much to be explored. Apparently, more research on the role(s) of technology in L2 teaching, learning, and research is needed to gain a better and more nuanced understanding.
Comprehensive bioimaging with fluorinated nanoparticles using breathable liquids

Fluorocarbons are lipophobic and non-polar molecules that exhibit remarkable biocompatibility, with applications in liquid ventilation and synthetic blood. The unique properties of these compounds have also enabled mass spectrometry imaging of tissues where the fluorocarbons act as a Teflon-like coating for nanostructured surfaces to assist in desorption/ionization. Here we report fluorinated gold nanoparticles (f-AuNPs) designed to facilitate nanostructure imaging mass spectrometry. Irradiation of f-AuNPs results in the release of the fluorocarbon ligands providing a driving force for analyte desorption. The f-AuNPs allow for the mass spectrometry analysis of both lipophilic and polar (central carbon) metabolites. An important property of AuNPs is that they also act as contrast agents for X-ray microtomography and electron microscopy, a feature we have exploited by infusing f-AuNPs into tissue via fluorocarbon liquids to facilitate multimodal (molecular and anatomical) imaging.
On reducing evaporator superheat nonlinearity with control architecture

Evaporator superheat control is an important aspect of the operation of refrigeration and air conditioning systems; since the majority of cooling in these systems occurs through evaporation of two-phase refrigerant, the energy efficiency is dramatically improved by reducing the amount of superheat present. However, allowing refrigerant to leave the evaporator without completely vaporizing risks catastrophic damage to the compressor, so superior control is required at low superheat levels. One of the most significant challenges present in this control problem is the presence of significant nonlinearities in the response from the control input, e.g. expansion valve position, to evaporator superheat. This paper reveals how a particular control architecture inherently compensates for both the static and dynamic nonlinearities that dominate the valve-to superheat transient response. Furthermore, the control implementation only requires temperature measurements, which are frequently available in ordinary HVAC systems. Experimental results confirm the reduction of nonlinearities using the proposed approach, and the authors discuss the effect of actuator limitations on the nonlinearity compensation.
Negative affect, interpersonal perception, and binge eating behavior: An experience sampling study

Objective Etiological and maintenance models for disordered eating highlight the salience of negative affect and interpersonal dysfunction. This study employed a 14-day experience sampling procedure to assess the impact of negative affect and interpersonal perceptions on binge eating behavior. Method Young adult women (N = 40) with recurrent binge eating and significant clinical impairment recorded their mood, interpersonal behavior, and eating behaviors at six stratified semirandom intervals daily through the use of personal digital assistants. Results Although momentary negative affect was associated with binge eating behavior, average levels of negative affect over the experience sampling period were not, and interpersonal problems moderated the relationship between negative affect and binge eating. Interpersonal problems also intensified the association between momentary interpersonal perceptions and binge eating behavior. Lagged analyses indicated that previous levels of negative affect and interpersonal style also influence binge eating. Discussion The study findings suggest there may be important differences in how dispositional versus momentary experiences of negative affect are associated with binge eating. Results also highlight the importance of interpersonal problems for understanding relationships among negative affect, interpersonal perception, and binge eating behavior. These results offer several possibilities for attending to affective and interpersonal functioning in clinical practice. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2015; 48:715–726)
Variability in photosynthetic production of dissolved and particulate organic carbon in the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre

The partitioning of photosynthetically-derived organic carbon between particulate and dissolved phases has important implications for marine carbon cycling. In this study we utilized 14C-bicarbonate assimilation to quantify rates of photosynthetic production of both particulate and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) at Station ALOHA (22˚45’N, 158˚W) in the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre (NPSG). At near-monthly time scales over ~5 years, we examined retention of 14C-labeled organic matter by both glass fiber filters and 0.2 µm pore size polycarbonate membrane filters that are commonly used for measurements of 14C-based plankton productivity. Use of polycarbonate filters resulted in significantly lower (averaging 60%) estimates of 14C-production compared to glass fiber filters. Coincident measurements of chlorophyll a concentrations from both 0.2 µm polycarbonate and glass fiber filters were not significantly different, suggesting the differences in 14C-productivity between these filter-types did not derive from differences in retention of photosynthetic biomass by these filters. Moreover, consistent with previous studies, results from experiments aimed at quantifying retention of organic matter by these filters suggested the difference between these two types of filters resulted from retention of DOC by glass fiber filters. We also quantified rates of 14C-DOC production to evaluate the partitioning of photosynthetic production between dissolved and particulate phases over daily to monthly time scales in this ecosystem. Unlike the strong depth-dependence observed in measurements of particulate organic carbon production, measured rates of 14C-DOC demonstrated no clear depth-dependence. On average, depth-integrated (0-75 m) rates of 14C-DOC production rates were equivalent to 18 ± 10% of the total (particulate and dissolved) productivity. Our findings indicate that in this oligotrophic ecosystem, rates of dissolved and particulate production can be temporally decoupled over daily to monthly time scales.
Perceptions of Disabilities: a Multidimensional Scaling Approach

Using INDSCAL (Individual Differences Scaling), the author investigated perceptions of disabilities of special education teachers, regular teachers, and nonteachers under conditions of undefined and defined disabilities. The perceptual spaces obtained were all multidimensional in nature, with the differences among them reflecting various degrees of complexity as well as specific types of contrasts used. The differences among the separate perceptual spaces notwithstanding, they share a common core that reflects a tripartite classification of disabilities, namely cognitive impairments, physical impairments, and behavioral-emotional disorders, as well as a generalized contrast between so-called normal and disabilities. Substantive implications of the findings are discussed in relation to current attempts to mainstream the handicapped.
GENETIC STRUCTURE OF AMERICAN MINK (MUSTELA VISON) POPULATIONS

Abstract Seventy-six American mink (Mustela vison) from 8 localities were genotyped using 4 polymorphic microsatellite loci. This study was designed to test the hypothesis that genetic structure was partitioned within streams due to the close association of mink with riparian habitats. Six of the localities were streams in Lonoke County in central Arkansas, one was in Independence County, 143 km from Lonoke County, Arkansas, and one was in Tipton County, Tennessee (204 km away from the populations in Lonoke County). FST values indicated that the Tipton County site was genetically distinct from those from Arkansas. However, most FST values among the 7 localities in Arkansas (6 in Lonoke County and one in Independence County) indicated little genetic difference among these sites. There was no statistically significant relationship between genetic and geographic distances. The straight-line distance between sites was positively correlated with genetic distances based on FST, while riverine distances were neg...
The role of the bipolar cell in retinal signal processing

Bipolar cells in the retina of the tiger salamander were studied by intracellular recording. Their receptive fields consisted of a central region and a surround which, when stimulated, antagonized the response of the center. The spatial distributions of the center and surround components were determined, using drugs that selectively eliminated the surround. The receptive field is shown to be a linear combination of the two components. Because of the spatial antagonism the receptive field acts as a bandpass spatial filter. The importance of this filtering in photon detection is discussed. >
Embedded RF passives technology using a combination of multilayer organic package substrate and silicon-based integrated passive devices

This paper discusses the embedding of small size radio frequency integrated passive devices (IPDs) inside the core layer of a multilayer organic package substrate. IPDs fabricated using a backend only silicon process were embedded inside the core of the package substrate to realize small form factor structures with very high tolerance while freeing up the surface of the package to enable 3D integration of multichip modules on the same package. Several individual and interconnected radio frequency (RF) filters and diplexers for Wireless LAN have been embedded and fully characterized up to 10 GHz. Full wave electromagnetic (EM) modeling and experimental characterization were used to evaluate the impact of the package environment on those embedded radio frequency components. The measured and modeled performance agreed very well in the frequency bands of interest.
Numerical Simulation of Unsteady Flows and Shape Oscillations in Liquid Droplets Induced by Deployment Needle Retraction

Retractable opposed needles are often used in reduced-gravity droplet combustion experiments to deploy droplets prior to ignition. Needle retraction induces droplet shape oscillations and internal flows that can have important effects on subsequent droplet behaviors. In the present paper, the unsteady flows and droplet shape oscillations associated with deployment needle retraction are investigated using the commercial CFD software package Fluent. A volume-of-fluid method with a second-order upwind scheme and a dual time stepping solver is employed to solve the conservation equations in 2-d and 3-d simulations of droplets prior to ignition. A moving-mesh method is employed to model needle movements. Calculations indicate that rapid needle retraction causes ligament formation between a droplet and a needle, with ligament breakage sometimes resulting in the formation of satellite droplets. Needle retraction also induces droplet shape oscillations that rapidly decay, though significant internal flows are predicted to remain within droplets even after droplet shape oscillations have damped to low levels. The calculations indicate that the initial needle spacing can have important effects on droplet shape oscillations and internal flow characteristics. Comparison of model predictions and experimental data is favorable.
Operator model-based design and evaluation of advanced systems: computational models

A multilevel operator modeling effort is recommended to provide broad support for integrated design of advanced control and protection systems for new nuclear power plants. A computational model called INTEROPS (integrated reactor operator system) is described which accounts for the cognitive activities of the operator by combining the advantages of network simulation and knowledge-based simulation. The INTEROPS model is a time-based simulation model which can be coupled with and control a thermal-hydraulics model of nuclear power plant. The INTEROPS model can provide fine-grained evaluation of allocation of functions during the iterative design phase of advanced systems. >
Performance evaluation of counter-based dynamic load balancing schemes for massive contingency analysis with different computing environments

Contingency analysis is a key function in the Energy Management System (EMS) to assess the impact of various combinations of power system component failures based on state estimation. Contingency analysis is also extensively used in power market operation for feasibility test of market solutions. High performance computing holds the promise of faster analysis of more contingency cases for the purpose of safe and reliable operation of today's power grids with less operating margin and more intermittent renewable energy sources. This paper evaluates the performance of counter-based dynamic load balancing schemes for massive contingency analysis under different computing environments. Insights from the performance evaluation can be used as guidance for users to select suitable schemes in the application of massive contingency analysis. Case studies, as well as MATLAB simulations, of massive contingency cases using the Western Electricity Coordinating Council power grid model are presented to illustrate the application of high performance computing with counter-based dynamic load balancing schemes.
Great (≥Mw8.0) megathrust earthquakes and the subduction of excess sediment and bathymetrically smooth seafloor

Using older and in part flawed data, [Ruff (1989)][1] suggested that thick sediment entering the subduction zone (SZ) smooths and strengthens the trench-parallel distribution of interplate coupling. This circumstance was conjectured to favor rupture continuation and the generation of high-magnitude (≥Mw8.0) interplate thrust (IPT) earthquakes. Using larger and more accurate compilations of sediment thickness and instrumental (1899 to January 2013) and pre-instrumental era (1700–1898) IPTs (n = 176 and 12, respectively), we tested if a compelling relation existed between where IPT earthquakes ≥Mw7.5 occurred and where thick (≥1.0 km) versus thin (≤1.0 km) sedimentary sections entered the SZ. Based on the new compilations, a statistically supported statement (see Summary and Conclusions) can be made that high-magnitude earthquakes are most prone to nucleate at well-sedimented SZs. For example, despite the 7500 km shorter global length of thick-sediment trenches, they account for ∼53% of instrumental era IPTs ≥Mw8.0, ∼75% ≥Mw8.5, and 100% ≥Mw9.1. No megathrusts >Mw9.0 ruptured at thin-sediment trenches, whereas three occurred at thick-sediment trenches (1960 Chile Mw9.5, 1964 Alaska Mw9.2, and 2004 Sumatra Mw9.2). However, large Mw8.0–9.0 IPTs commonly (n = 23) nucleated at thin-sediment trenches. These earthquakes are associated with the subduction of low-relief ocean floor and where the debris of subduction erosion thickens the plate-separating subduction channel. The combination of low bathymetric relief and subduction erosion is inferred to also produce a smooth trench-parallel distribution of coupling posited to favor the characteristic lengthy rupturing of high-magnitude IPT earthquakes. In these areas subduction of a weak sedimentary sequence further enables rupture continuation. [1]: #ref-81
Conversion of Tryptophan into Niacin in the Turkey (Meleagris gallipavos)

Using Nicholas Large White turkey poults from 1 to 21 days of age, two experiments were conducted to measure the conversion of tryptophan into niacin. In Experiment 1, the dietary treatments were 0, 6, and 12 mg of supplemental niacin and 0, 150, 300, 450, and 1,000 mg of supplemental L-tryptophan per kg of diet, respectively. In Experiment 2, the niacin treatments were the same as in Experiment 1, but the L-tryptophan levels were 0, 150, 300, 450, 600, 800, 1,000, and 1,500 mg per kg, respectively. In both experiments, the diets used were based on corn and soybean meal. By analysis, the basal diet contained 29.6% crude protein, .35% tryptophan, 23 mg per kg of niacin, and 4.7 mg per kg of pyridoxine. Using Finney's slope ratio procedure, conversions were obtained of 103:1 (tryptophan:niacin) and 119:1 for Experiments 1 and 2, respectively. These results indicated the consistent, although inefficient, role of tryptophan as niacin precursor in turkeys fed a practical diet, compared with the reported conversion in other species.
Trapping DNA near a solid-state nanopore.

We demonstrate that voltage-biased solid-state nanopores can transiently localize DNA in an electrolyte solution. A double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) molecule is trapped when the electric field near the nanopore attracts and immobilizes a nonend segment of the molecule across the nanopore orifice without inducing a folded molecule translocation. In this demonstration of the phenomenon, the ionic current through the nanopore decreases when the dsDNA molecule is trapped by the nanopore. By contrast, a translocating dsDNA molecule under the same conditions causes an ionic current increase. We also present finite-element modeling results that predict this behavior for the conditions of the experiment.
Some effects of a reduced relational vocabulary on the Whodunit problem

A key issue in artificial intelligence lies in finding the amount of input detail needed to do successful learning. Too much detail causes overhead and makes learning prone to over-fitting. Too little detail and it may not be possible to learn anything at all. The issue is particularly relevant when the inputs are relational case descriptions, and a very expressive vocabulary may also lead to inconsistent representations. For example, in the Whodunit Problem, the task is to form hypotheses about the identity of the perpetrator of an event described using relational propositions. The training data consists of arbitrary relational descriptions of many other similar cases. In this paper, we examine the possibility of translating the case descriptions into an alternative vocabulary which has a reduced number of predicates and therefore produces more consistent case descriptions. We compare how the reduced vocabulary affects three different learning algorithms: exemplar-based analogy, prototype-based analogy, and association rule learning. We find that it has a positive effect on some algorithms and a negative effect on others, which gives us insight into all three algorithms and indicates when reduced vocabularies might be appropriate.
Foreign Investment in the U.S. Food-Marketing System: Discussion

The three papers presented at this session discuss several aspects of foreign direct investment (FDI) in food industries. My comments address one of these themes, the applicability of the theory of FDI to these industries. First, I present a synthesis of what is generally called the eclectic theory of FDI (Dunning). My approach differs somewhat in emphasis from Connor or Pagoulatos. Second, I review the studies of FDI in food and tobacco manufac-
Creating change through partnership: Developing continuing education resources in rural areas

Local nursing leaders were presented with a dilemma by believing that education is a stimulus for change in the light of the restricted resources experienced by a rural, under-served remote area of Texas. To confront the shortage of educational development opportunities for nurses, representatives from the Lower Rio Grande Valley and The University of Texas-Houston School of Nursing seized advantage of the political climate to create an educational partnership. Together, leaders championed the need to develop a cadre of nurses skilled in providing on-site continuing education, while updating knowledge and skill of professional nurses. Thus, by creating change through partnership, a new culture of collegiality became the energizing force for professional nursing in this geographically remote area. With an attitude of inclusion and, working together for a common shared goal, a model for maintaining continuing education in the 90s emerged.