cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Association Between Body Mass Index and Pancreatic Cancer: Variation by Age at Body Mass Index Assessment.

Higher body mass index (BMI; weight (kg)/height (m)2) is associated with increased risk of pancreatic cancer in epidemiologic studies. However, BMI has usually been assessed at older ages, potentially underestimating the full impact of excess weight. We examined the association between BMI and pancreatic cancer mortality among 963,317 adults who were aged 30-89 years at their enrollment in Cancer Prevention Study II in 1982. During follow-up through 2014, a total of 8,354 participants died of pancreatic cancer. Hazard ratios per 5 BMI units, calculated using proportional hazards regression, declined steadily with age at BMI assessment, from 1.25 (95% confidence interval: 1.18, 1.33) in persons aged 30-49 years at enrollment to 1.13 (95% confidence interval: 1.02, 1.26) in those aged 70-89 years at enrollment (P for trend = 0.005). On the basis of a hazard ratio of 1.25 per 5 BMI units at age 45 years, we estimated that 28% of US pancreatic cancer deaths among persons born in 1970-1974 will be attributable to BMI ≥25.0-nearly twice the equivalent proportion of those born in the 1930s, a birth cohort with much lower BMI in middle age. These results suggest that BMI before age 50 years is more strongly associated with pancreatic cancer risk than BMI at older ages, and they underscore the importance of avoiding excess weight gain before middle age for preventing this highly fatal cancer.
Assisting Decision-Making on Age of Neutering for 35 Breeds of Dogs: Associated Joint Disorders, Cancers, and Urinary Incontinence

Neutering (including spaying) of male and female dogs in the first year after birth has become routine in the U.S. and much of Europe, but recent research reveals that for some dog breeds, neutering may be associated with increased risks of debilitating joint disorders and some cancers, complicating pet owners' decisions on neutering. The joint disorders include hip dysplasia, cranial cruciate ligament tear or rupture, and elbow dysplasia. The cancers include lymphoma, mast cell tumor, hemangiosarcoma, and osteosarcoma. In previous studies on the Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever and German Shepherd Dog, neutering before a year of age was associated with increased risks of one or more joint disorders, 2-4 times that of intact dogs. The increase was particularly seen with dogs neutered by 6 months of age. In female Golden Retrievers, there was an increase in one or more of the cancers followed to about 2-4 times that of intact females with neutering at any age. The goal of the present study was to expand and use the same data collection and analyses to cover an additional 29 breeds, plus three varieties of Poodles. There were major breed differences in vulnerability to neutering, both with regard to joint disorders and cancers. In most cases, the caregiver can choose the age of neutering without increasing the risks of these joint disorders or cancers. Small-dog breeds seemed to have no increased risks of joint disorders associated with neutering, and in only two small breeds (Boston Terrier and Shih Tzu) was there a significant increase in cancers. To assist pet owners and veterinarians in deciding on the age of neutering a specific dog, guidelines that avoid increasing the risks of a dog acquiring these joint disorders or cancers are laid out for neutering ages on a breed-by-breed and sex basis.
Self-assembly of solid nanoclusters in molybdenum under gas ion implantation

Abstract The self-assembly of defects in materials could create unique physical and chemical properties. In nuclear fuels, the formation of self-assembled fission products mitigates fission-gas-release and swelling. Here we report the formation of a solid nanocluster superlattice in molybdenum, an important constituent in metallic fuels, under krypton gas ion implantation. X-ray absorption near edge structure measurements coupled with density functional theory calculations show that the pressure of krypton nanoclusters in molybdenum is ~2 GPa and molecular dynamic simulations reveal that the krypton atoms are solid in the nanoclusters with a krypton-to-vacancy ratio of ~0.28 at 300 K.
Temporal CSI Correlation in Mixed RF/FSO Cooperative Relaying Systems Under Joint Effects of HPA Nonlinearities and IQ Imbalance

In this paper, we present the performance analysis of mixed RF/FSO system with multiple relays. To select the best relay, we adopt partial relay selection with outdated CSI wherein we investigate the effect of the temporal correlation of the channels. Unlike the vast majority of work, we introduce the impairments to the relays and the destination and we compare the performance against conventional RF relaying systems. We further derive the expressions of the outage probability and the ergodic capacity as well as the bounds to unpack engineering insights into the system robustness.
A statistical framework for differential pseudotime analysis with multiple single-cell RNA-seq samples

Pseudotime analysis with single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) data has been widely used to study dynamic gene regulatory programs along continuous biological processes. While many computational methods have been developed to infer the pseudo-temporal trajectories of cells within a biological sample, methods that compare pseudo-temporal patterns with multiple samples (or replicates) across different experimental conditions are lacking. Lamian is a comprehensive and statistically-rigorous computational framework for differential multi-sample pseudotime analysis. It can be used to identify changes in a biological process associated with sample covariates, such as different biological conditions, and also to detect changes in gene expression, cell density, and topology of a pseudotemporal trajectory. Unlike existing methods that ignore sample variability, Lamian draws statistical inference after accounting for cross-sample variability and hence substantially reduces sample-specific false discoveries that are not generalizable to new samples. Using both simulations and real scRNA-seq data, including an analysis of differential immune response programs between COVID-19 patients with different disease severity levels, we demonstrate the advantages of Lamian in decoding cellular gene expression programs in continuous biological processes.
Surrounding the Ascending Aorta: Without Injuring the Pulmonary Artery

It is possible to clamp the ascending aorta without mobilizing and surrounding it. This becomes harder the more aneurysmal the aorta becomes. Many surgeons prefer to surround the aorta to make clamping the aorta more definite and secure and to keep the pulmonary artery (PA) out of the clamp. We subscribe to that policy.
Über das Sammeln gleichartiger Terme, über Euler, Gauß und MacDonald und über verpasste Gelegenheiten

Euler, der in langen Berechnungen auserst gut war, berechnete wahrscheinlich fast so viele Terme. Danach konnte er nicht umhin, festzustellen, dass alle von null verschiedenen Koeffizienten dieser Reihe Einsen mit positiven und negativen Vorzeichen sind und dass sie eine streng vorbestimmte Reihenfolge haben: zwei Einsen, zwei Einsen mit negativen Vorzeichen, zwei Einsen, zwei Einsen mit negativen Vorzeichen usw.
Enforcing the South African Constitution: The Fight for Judicial Independence and Separation of Powers

So-called developing nations often suffer from political and constitutional instability, including fragile judiciaries. The South African Constitution and the Constitutional Court though have received international acclaim during their first 20 years. Yet in South Africa, many expected that African National Congress (ANC) populist President Jacob Zuma would try to reduce the Constitutional Court’s power after he took office in 2009. Zuma and others in the ANC had criticized both the Court and the judiciary. Defenders of the Court responded that Zuma was trying to chill the Court’s potential anti-corruption function. Moreover Zuma eventually appointed a majority of the Court’s eleven Justices. This article demonstrates, however, that the Constitutional Court and the South African Supreme Court of Appeal have issued several surprisingly strong rulings against Zuma on key executive power issues. Though tensions and concrete problems remain between Zuma’s supporters and the Constitutional Court, these rulings can hopefully provide a model for judiciaries in other nations fighting to maintain their independence against skeptical political forces.
Rapid onset of pathological gambling in machine gamblers.

A particularly rapid onset of pathological gambling (PG-onset) through the use of gambling machines has been widely alluded to, but this is the first study to empirically examine the phenomenon. This study compared the latency of PG-onset in those who gambled primarily on machines, compared to those who gambled primarily on more “traditional” forms of gambling at PG-onset. Subjects were 44 adult pathological gamblers (PGs) seeking outpatient treatment in Rhode Island (17 females; mean age = 46.9). Subjects completed questionnaires and a diagnostic interview including a complete history of gambling activities and the course of PG. The “latency” of PG-onset was defined as the time (in years) elapsed between the age of regular involvement in the primary form of gambling and the age at which DSM-IV criteria were first met. “Machine” PGs (n = 25) had a significantly shorter latency of onset than did “traditional” PGs (1.08 years vs. 3.58 years). Females and machine PGs had a significantly older age of onset, but gender was not associated with latency of PG-onset. Lifetime comorbidity of either substance use disorders (SUDS) or depressive disorders (DDS) was also not associated with the latency of PG-onset. The results of the current study suggest that intrapersonal variables such as gender and comorbid disorders do not generally affect the speed with which people develop PG. Rather, the social, environmental, and stimulus features of mechanized gambling are implicated. Prospective longitudinal studies on the onset and course of PG are needed, as well as more basic research on the features of machine gambling that may contribute to rapid onset.
Would Linked MOOC Courseware Enhance Information Search

The revolution of online learning brings great opportunities to millions of learners. However, the size of the learner population and the heterogeneity of the learners' backgrounds make conventional one-size-fits-all pedagogies inappropriate. We propose a conceptual model -- educational resource linking with the goal of satisfying various learning needs by building a rich platform integrating abundant and open online resources. With this model, resources could be organized around a shared curriculum, and materials on the same topic are cross-linked for recommendation. This idea may improve the efficiency in utilizing and digesting scattered knowledge. As a first step, we conducted a case study using crowd-sourcing techniques, and found that learners, especially novices, can search learning materials faster without sacrificing accuracy, when using an interface with linked learning resources, as compared to a traditional, monolithic one.
Mould release potential of polydimethylsiloxane coatings using photoinitiated polymerisation

Cycloaliphatic epoxide-functionalised polydimethylsiloxanes were coated onto a gel-coated fibreglass substrate and cured using two different light sources: UV light and visible light. Curing was accomplished through the use of an acid-generating photoinitiator, and a photosensitiser was used to shift the initiating wavelength into the visible region. The release potential, mechanical properties, surface tension, and contact angle of the cross-linked polymer were measured. The contact angle and surface tension of the UV-cured coatings were found to be 103° ± 0.05 and 10.93 ± 0.05mJ/m2, respectively. The contact angle and surface tension of the visible light-cured coatings were 102° and 11.42 ± 0.05mJ/m2, respectively. Pull-off adhesion tests revealed that a consistent 0.2MPa of normal force was required to remove the mould from both the UV- and visible light-cured coatings even after 30 releases. Both methods of cure offered the same release properties, but the visible light sample required a much longer cure time.
Evolutionary and Ecological Interactions between Micromammals and Macroparasites

Small mammals represent the majority of mammaliandiversity and often are key components of ecosystemfunction. The interactions between small mammalsand their parasites can significantly impact organismalecology and evolution. Parasitic infections of smallmammals are extremely common, and it is the goal ofMicromammals and Macroparasites. From Evolution-ary Ecology to Management to describe these para-sites, explain how the interactions between thesedistantly related organisms can affect the basicbiology of host individuals, populations, and species,and demonstrate the role that small mammals andtheir parasites play in disease transmission, pestmanagement, and conservation biology.This edited volume is partly the product of theeditors’ recognition of a need for a book reviewingthe current knowledge of mammals and their parasitesand partly the product of a symposium on “Parasitesand mammals: A macroecological perspective” orga-nized by editors Krasnov and Morand at the 9
Antiadipogenic Effect of Green Coffee Bean Extract (LB368)

Obesity, the accumulation of excess fat or adipose resulting in increased health problems and decreased life span, is a serious problem worldwide. Prevention of adipogenesis is a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of obesity. Extracts of unroasted coffee beans or green coffee bean extract (GCBE) have recently been shown in small clinical trials to decrease weight in overweight individuals, however the mechanism of its effects are unclear. We evaluated the effect of GCBE on the differentiation of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes by analyzing the stages of differentiation and lipid accumulation. In preliminary results, we have found that GCBE inhibits 3T3-L1 preadipocyte differentiation and lipid accumulation as measured by Oil Red O staining without cytotoxic effects using the Alamar Blue viability assay. Importantly, this inhibition by GCBE occurred when treatment was given on the first day of adipogenesis induction and was enough to slow the differentiation process, indicating that GCBE may exert its e...
Hybrid Bluetooth Scatternet Routing

A Bluetooth® scatternet is a Wireless Personal Area Network (WPAN) formed by inter-connecting piconets using cross-over nodes called bridges. In order for arbitrary nodes to be able to communicate in a scatternet they must be able to discover each other, sometimes without knowing the peer device's identity, and establish routes. Traditionally, routing in wireless ad-hoc networks is done using either a proactive, reactive, or a hybrid approach. In this paper, we present a hybrid solution with a dual meaning. We use a hybrid zone routing approach, but also perform route discovery based on either a destination address or a service. The proactive part of the protocol establishes an Extended Scatternet Neighborhood (ESN) with a complete view of adjacent, directly connected, piconets. The reactive part utilizes a route discovery mechanism and establishes inter-piconet modified source routes . The route request dissemination, for both destination and service-based route discovery, is performed using a probabilistic gossiping strategy to reduce routing load.
Cutting Edge: Hypermutation in Ig V Genes from Mice Deficient in the MLH1 Mismatch Repair Protein

During somatic hypermutation of Ig V genes, mismatched nucleotide substitutions become candidates for removal by the DNA mismatch repair pathway. Previous studies have shown that V genes from mice deficient for the MSH2 and PMS2 mismatch repair proteins have frequencies of mutation that are comparable with those from wild-type (wt) mice; however, the pattern of mutation is altered. Because the absence of MSH2 and PMS2 produced different mutational spectra, we examined the role of another protein involved in mismatch repair, MLH1, on the frequency and pattern of hypermutation. MLH1-deficient mice were immunized with oxazolone Ag, and splenic B cells were analyzed for mutations in their VκOx1 light chain genes. Although the frequency of mutation in MLH1-deficient mice was twofold lower than in wt mice, the pattern of mutation in Mlh1 −/− clones was similar to wt clones. These findings suggest that the MLH1 protein has no direct effect on the mutational spectrum.
Individualizing Management of Complex Esophageal Pathology Using Three-Dimensional Printed Models

Purpose In complex esophageal cases, conventional two-dimensional imaging is limited in demonstrating anatomic relationships. We describe the utility of three-dimensional (3D) printed models for complex patients to individualize care. Description Oral effervescent agents, with positive enteric contrast, distended the esophagus during computed tomography (CT) scanning to facilitate segmentation during post-processing. The CT data were segmented, converted into a stereolithography file, and printed using photopolymer materials. Evaluation In 1 patient with a left pneumonectomy, aortic bypass, and esophageal diversion, 3D printing enabled visualization of the native esophagus and facilitated endoscopic mucosal resection, followed by hiatal dissection and division of the gastroesophageal junction as treatment. In a second patient, 3D printing allowed enhanced visualization of multiple esophageal diverticula, allowing for optimization of the surgical approach. Conclusions Printing of 3D anatomic models in patients with complex esophageal pathology facilitates planning the optimal surgical approach and anticipating potential difficulties for the multidisciplinary team. These models are invaluable for patient education.
Detrimental effects of UV-B radiation in a xeroderma pigmentosum-variant cell line

DNA polymerase η (pol η), of the Y-family, is well known for its in vitro DNA lesion bypass ability. The most well-characterized lesion bypassed by this polymerase is the cyclobutane pyrimidine dimer (CPD) caused by ultraviolet (UV) light. Historically, cellular and whole-animal models for this area of research have been conducted using UV-C (λ = 100–280 nm) owing to its ability to generate large quantities of CPDs and also the more structurally distorting 6-4 photoproduct. Although UV-C is useful as a laboratory tool, exposure to these wavelengths is generally very low owing to being filtered by stratospheric ozone. We are interested in the more environmentally relevant wavelength range of UV-B (λ = 280–315 nm) for its role in causing cytotoxicity and mutagenesis. We evaluated these endpoints in both a normal human fibroblast control line and a Xeroderma pigmentosum variant cell line in which the POLH gene contains a truncating point mutation, leading to a nonfunctional polymerase. We demonstrate that UV-B has similar but less striking effects compared to UV-C in both its cytotoxic and its mutagenic effects. Analysis of the mutation spectra after a single dose of UV-B shows that a majority of mutations can be attributed to mutagenic bypass of dipyrimidine sequences. However, we do note additional types of mutations with UV-B that are not previously reported after UV-C exposure. We speculate that these differences are attributed to a change in the spectra of photoproduct lesions rather than other lesions caused by oxidative stress. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 55:375–384, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sustained Spatial Data Management in Real-World Projects - A Reasearch Focus

While recent hardware and software developments made Geographic Information Systems (GIS) systems widely available there are still many problems to be solved. Partially in contrast to the mainstream in GIS research, the most important technical issues of real-world projects point to processes which support an efficient, economic but long living ‘data life cycle’, namely: 1. Data capturing; 2. Continuous map revision, database update and quality checking; 3. Map generalization; 4. Spatial data integration and transfer.
Numerical solution of the wave equation describing acoustic scattering and propagation through complex dispersive moving media

Abstract The numerical solution of acoustic pulse propagation through dispersive moving media requires the inclusion of attenuation and its causal companion, phase velocity. For acoustic propagation in a linear medium, Szabo [T.L. Szabo, J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 96 (1994) 491] introduced the concept of a convolutional propagation operator that plays the role of a casual propagation factor in the time domain. This operator was originally proposed to replace the term responsible for including losses from thermal conduction and viscosity of the fluid in the Westervelt equation. The operator has been successfully used in the linear wave equation for quiescent media. Development of the linear wave equation for sound in dispersive fluids with inhomogeneous flow will be described, along with a one-dimensional example. The resulting modified linear wave equation is solved via the method of finite differences.
Some properties of solutions of systems of two linear first-order ordinary differential equations

Using the representation of the general real solution of a system of two linear first-order equations via the imaginary component of the complex solution of the Riccati equation corresponding to this system, we prove some asymptotic properties of solutions of nonoscillating systems. We obtain necessary conditions for the Lyapunov stability of these systems.
Effect of field edges on dispersal and distribution of colonizing stink bugs across farmscapes of the Southeast USA

Stink bugs (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae), including Nezara viridula (L.), Euschistus servus (Say), and Chinavia hilaris (Say), are economic pests in farmscapes where they move within and between closely associated crop and non-crop habitats. Thus, field edges in these farmscapes include not only crop-to-crop interfaces but also those edges adjoining non-crop habitats. We examined the influence of field edges on colonization of stink bugs in southeastern USA farmscapes composed of typical combinations of corn, peanut, and cotton. For E. servus and N. viridula, egg-to-adult development and presence of both sexes on all crops indicated that the crops served as reproductive plants. Adult C. hilaris were rarely found on corn and on crops associated with it, and they were present mainly in cotton in peanut-cotton farmscapes. Mature crop height was significantly higher for corn than for cotton and significantly higher for cotton over peanut, and an edge effect in dispersal of stink bugs into a crop was detected up to 4.6, 8.2, and 14.6 m from the crop-to-crop interface in corn, cotton, and peanut, respectively. These results suggest that stink bug dispersal into a crop decreases as crop height increases. The first stink bug-infested crop at the crop-to-crop interface was the most significant contributor of colonizing stink bugs to an adjacent crop. An edge effect in dispersal of stink bug adults was detected in corn next to non-woodlands and woodlands and in cotton adjacent to woodlands. Edge effects were never detected in side edges of peanut. Overall, our results indicate that both plant height and host plant suitability can influence edge-mediated dispersal of stink bugs at field edges.
COATT: a state-wide initiative to evaluate and improve teacher technology education

Like many other states, Michigan has recently instituted minimum technology standards for pre-service teachers. A group of teacher education institutions decided that that standard needed to be a baseline rather than an end goal. Together they formed the Consortium for Outstanding Achievement in Teaching with Technology (COATT), whose purpose is to set in place a formal process to recognize pre-service, and eventually in-service, teachers for going beyond the mandated standard. Here we discuss both the process of bringing the consortium together and the progress of our students as they applied for the M-COATT certificate. This article discusses the origins of the consortium, the evaluation process, the results of the first rounds of evaluation, and the possible future of the consortium.
The filter‐feeding rates and particle retention efficiencies of three species of Cyclosalpa (Tunicata, Thaliacea)1

The particle retention spectra of the mucous nets of three species of salps were determined by measuring differences in grazing rates on particles of different sizes with a Coulter Counter. It is pointed out that the only correct method for determining these spectra for an organism feeding in a closed vessel is to compare rates of clearance for each particle size class; if ratios of the quantity ingested to the initial amount in each size class are used, incorrect retention spectra will be produced. Cyclosalpa floridana, Cyclosalpa affinis, and Cyclosalpa polae can all remove particles about 4 µ in diameter and larger with 100% efficiency. Observed differences between species in the retention characteristics of the filtration apparatus can be ascribed to differences in the sizes of the. animals. In general, smaller salps can retain a greater fraction of small particles than can larger ones. Although quantitative differences in the particle retention spectra between generations and species exist, there is little evidence that qualitative differences arc also present. Depending on the abundance of these salps, their grazing impact on particles with diameters as small as 1 µ could be significant.
Identification of procyanidins and anthocyanins in blueberries and cranberries (Vaccinium spp.) using high-performance liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry.

Blueberries and cranberries were analyzed for procyanidins using normal-phase HPLC/MS. Monomers, identified as (+)-catechin and (−)-epicatechin, and a series of oligomers were detected in blueberries, and MS data confirmed that the oligomers consisted of (epi)catechin units that were exclusively singly linked (B-type). The procyanidin “fingerprints” were similar for Tifblue and Rubel but higher than that for lowbush blueberries. In whole cranberries, (−)-epicatechin was present, along with a complex series of oligomers. Both A-type (contained only one double linkage per oligomer) and B-type oligomers were present. Two commercial cranberry juices exhibited similar procyanidin profiles, except that one contained increased quantitites. There were processing effects on the procyanidin content of cranberry extract and juices when compared to those of the unprocessed fruits. Monomer, dimers, and A-type trimers were the primary procyanidins, with only trace levels of the B-type trimers and A-type tetramers and w...
Cooperativity of SV40 T antigen and ras in progressive stages of transformation of human fibroblasts.

Abstract Human diploid fibroblasts immortalized by SV40 T antigen provide an experimental system for studying the progression and synergism in transformation by secondary oncogenes. We have utilized the human fibroblast line HAL, which was immortalized with an origin-defective SV40 genome encoding a temperature-sensitive T antigen, to study the cooperativity between SV40 T antigen and the ras oncogene in the progression of transformation. This study demonstrates that HAL cells possess characteristic growth patterns, requiring 10% serum, are anchorage dependent, and express a temperature-sensitive T antigen. HAL cells rely on the normal functioning of T antigen for continual growth and therefore do not proliferate at 39 °C. Three new derivatives of the HAL cell line were generated by microinjection of the ras oncogene. The cell line v-ras-HAL was derived by microinjection of HAL cells with v-Ha- ras DNA. The cell lines c-rasSVneo-HAL and c-rasLTRhygro-HAL were established by microinjection of HAL cells with the plasmids pSV2neoT24 or fpHVT24, respectively, wherein the ras gene is transcriptionally regulated by the cellular promoter and driven by either the SV40 enhancer or an upstream LTR enhancer. The three ras containing cell lines grow in reduced serum concentrations (0 to 5%), are anchor-age independent, and express both T antigen and ras p21. The v-ras-HAL and c-rasSVneo-HAL cell lines are still dependent upon the normal functioning of T antigen for continual growth at 39 °C, however the c-rasLTRhygro-HAL cell line does proliferate at 39 °C in 10% serum-containing medium. Therefore, we propose that neither v-Ha- ras nor c- ras can replace T antigen at 39 °C; rather T antigen and ras cooperate in progressive stages of transformation of human fibroblasts.
Anomalous electron transport due to multiple high frequency beam ion driven Alfvén eigenmodes

We report on the simulations of recently observed correlations of the core electron transport with the sub-thermal ion cyclotron frequency instabilities in low aspect ratio plasmas of the National Spherical Torus Experiment. In order to model the electron transport the guiding centre code ORBIT is employed. A spectrum of test functions of multiple core localized global shear Alfven eigenmode (GAE) instabilities based on a previously developed theory and experimental observations is used to examine the electron transport properties. The simulations exhibit thermal electron transport induced by electron drift orbit stochasticity in the presence of multiple core localized GAE.
Trait self-report as a “fill in” belief system: Categorization speed moderates the extraversion/life satisfaction relation

The present studies pursue the premise that self-reported traits such as extraversion can be viewed in terms of beliefs about the self that may be used as a default, particularly when encoding skills are poor. Encoding skills were measured by several choice reaction time tasks. Study 1 supported the hypothesis that individual differences in categorization speed predict abilities to assign self-relevant meaning to events as they occur. Studies 2 – 4, involving 213 undergraduates, sought to build on this foundation in the context of potential interactions between categorization speed and trait extraversion in the prediction of life satisfaction. As hypothesized, the trait of extraversion predicted reports of life satisfaction particularly among slow categorizers; among fast categorizers, such relations did not occur. The results in total suggest that individuals differ in their episodic encoding abilities and that trait/outcome relations (at least as measured by self-report) might be somewhat particular to ...
Weakly convergent sequences of functions and orthogonal polynomials

Abstract Measures and sequences of functions on locally compact spaces are studied, and a condition is given that, for a sequence of functions that is weakly convergent in L1, ensures the strong convergence of a related sequence of functions. This result, together with a new integral formula for the reflection coefficients Φn(0) for the monic orthogonal polynomial Φn associated with a measure on the unit circle, is used to investigate convergence properties of orthogonal polynomials.
Numerical investigation on mechanism of multiple vortex rings formation in late boundary-layer transition

Mechanism of multiple vortex ring formation is one of key issues of late flow transition in a boundary layer. In this paper, a new mechanism is presented that the multiple ring formation is a result of shear layer instability. According to our DNS observation, a momentum deficit zone is formed above the original hairpin vortex tube due to the ejection of the streamwise hairpin vortex tube, which brings the low speed flow from the lower level to the higher level of the boundary layer through vortex rotation. Then the momentum deficit zone generates a sharp olive-shaped shear layer surrounded by the high speed flow. As the shear layer moves up, inviscid instability is developed due to the existence of inflection points (inflection surface in 3-D). Consequently, the new vortex rings are formed one by one. During the new spanwise vortex ring formation process, the spanwise vorticity is increased; however, the original streamwise hairpin vortex tube is weakened with decreasing of the streamwise vorticity. This process follows the Helmoholtz vorticity conservation law.
Video context-dependent recall.

In two experiments, we used an effective new method for experimentally manipulating local and global contexts to examine context-dependent recall. The method included video-recorded scenes of real environments, with target words superimposed over the scenes. In Experiment 1, we used a within-subjects manipulation of video contexts and compared the effects of reinstatement of a global context (15 words per context) with effects of less overloaded context cues (1 and 3 words per context) on recall. The size of the reinstatement effects in Experiment 1 show how potently video contexts can cue recall. A strong effect of cue overload was also found; reinstatement effects were smaller, but still quite robust, in the 15 words per context condition. The powerful reinstatement effect was replicated for local contexts in Experiment 2, which included a nocontexts-reinstated group, a control condition used to determine whether reinstatement of half of the cues caused biased output interference for uncued targets. The video context method is a potent way to investigate context-dependent memory.
Advanced OEH Methodology for Evaluation of Microelectronics and Packaging

With the microelectronics industry being one of the most dynamic, in terms of new technologies, electronic packages have to be designed and optimized for new and ever more demanding applications in relatively short periods of time. In addition, for certain applications, the nondestructive testing (NDT) of electronic packages may be needed, especially for applications requiring noninvasive, full-field-of-view, real-time testing the behavior of a specific package subjected to actual operating conditions. This type of NDT can be accomplished by application of optical techniques and, in particular, speckle phase correlation techniques in the form of optoelectronic holography (OEH). In this paper, advanced OEH techniques are described and representative applications of OEH for the effective characterization of microelectronic components and packages are presented.Copyright © 2002 by ASME
Development of a high throughput, semi-automated, infectious center cell-based ELISA for equine infectious anemia virus

A faster semi-automated 96-well microtiter plate assay to determine viral infectivity titers, or viral focal units (vfu), of equine infectious anemia virus (EIAV) stocks is described. Optimization of the existing method modernizes a classic virological technique for viral titer determination by quantitating EIAV in experimentally infected cells via a cell-based ELISA. To allow for automation, multiple parameters of the current assay procedures were modified resulting in an assay that required only one quarter the original amount of virus and/or serum for infectivity or neutralization assays, respectively. Equivalent reductions in the required volumes of tissue culture, cell processing, and protein detection reagents were also achieved. Additionally, the new assay decreased the time required from start to finish from 10 days to 6 days (viral titer) or 7 days (viral neutralization), while increasing the number of samples that can be processed concurrently by transition to a 96-well microtiter plate format and by automated counting.
Cost-effectiveness of targeting patients undergoing cardiac surgery for therapy with intravenous amiodarone to prevent atrial fibrillation ☆

Abstract Objectives This study evaluated the cost-effectiveness of administering prophylactic intravenous (IV) amiodarone therapy to patients undergoing cardiac surgery according to their predicted risk of postoperative atrial fibrillation. Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common complication of cardiovascular surgery that is associated with a significant increase in hospitalization costs. Intravenous amiodarone has been shown to decrease the incidence of postoperative AF. Methods All 8,709 patients who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), 1,217 patients who underwent valve replacement and 624 patients who underwent CABG and valve replacement procedures (CABG + valve) from January 1, 1994, to June 30, 1999, at Emory University Hospitals were studied. Models predicting the risk of AF were developed using logistic regression; linear regression was used to estimate the influence of AF on hospitalization costs. Cost-effectiveness was evaluated for patient subsets identified according to their predicted risk of AF. Results Postoperative AF rates were 17.7% for CABG, 24.6% for valve and 33.8% for CABG + valve. Using $5,000 as an acceptable cost per episode of atrial fibrillation averted, prophylactic IV amiodarone in CABG patients was not found to be cost-effective. Therapy would be recommended for roughly 5% of valve patients with a predicted risk of atrial fibrillation >45%, and roughly two thirds of CABG + valve patients who have a predicted risk of >30%. Conclusions Cost-effectiveness of prophylactic IV amiodarone varies according to type of surgery and the predicted risk of atrial fibrillation. Older patients undergoing valve replacement, particularly those with a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and those undergoing concomitant CABG are likely to be the most appropriate candidates for IV amiodarone therapy in the perioperative period.
Processing to obtain high-purity gallium

Gallium has become increasingly popular as a substrate material for electronic devices. Aside from ore, gallium can be obtained from such industrial sources as the Bayer process caustic liquor that is a byproduct of bauxite processing, flue dust removed from the fume-collection system in plants that produce aluminum by the electrolytic process, zinc refinery residues, gallium scrap materials, and coal fly ash. The purification process for gallium can start with solvent-extraction processes where the concentrations of impurities, especially metals, are reduced to the ppm range. This article describes how ultra-purification techniques can be employed to reduce the undesirable impurities to the low ppb range. The various procedures described give an idea as to the extent of work needed to obtain and prepare high-purity gallium for electronic application.
Marine Resistivity As A Tool For Characterizing Zones Of Seepage At Lake Lacawac, Pa

The groundwater-surface water exchange zones of lakes and streams are dynamic and difficult to characterize. The spatial variability of seepage zones makes them hard to locate using traditional point sampling methods. The goal of this project is to use marine resistivity to identify potential zones of groundwater discharge and recharge, providing focus for point measurements. Multiple resistivity surveys were conducted at Lake Lacawac, a small, glacially formed lake in northeastern Pennsylvania. One target for these surveys was the resistivity contrast between groundwater and surface water. Another target was resistivity contrasts created by geologic heterogeneities that control groundwater discharge into the lake. Two types of surveys were conducted using a SuperSting® resistivity system. In a continuous resistivity profile, a multi-electrode cable was towed parallel to shore to look for spatial variability in resistivity around the lake. A second resistivity array was laid on the lake bottom perpendicular to the shoreline to examine how resistivity varied with distance from shore. The results of these surveys suggested several lithology changes both along the shoreline and with distance from shore. Seepage meters were used to provide ground truth about interpreted areas of seepage.
System support for parallel computing on heterogeneous networks of workstations

In this paper, we introduce several on-going research projects to support parallel and distributed computing on heterogeneous networks of workstations (NOW) in the High Performance Computing and Software Laboratory at the University of Texas at San Antonio. The projects at aiming at addressing three technical issues. First, the factors of heterogeneity and time-sharing effects make traditional performance models/metrics for homogeneous computing performance measurement and evaluation not suitable for heterogeneous computing. We develop practical models and metrics which quantify the heterogeneity of networks and characterize the performance effects. Second, in order to perform parallel computation effectively, special system support is necessary. We are developing system schemes for heterogeneity management, process scheduling and efficient communications. Finally, to provide insight into system performance, we are developing two types of supporting tools: a graphical instrumentation monitor to aid users in investigating performance problems and in determining the most effective way of exploiting the NOW systems, and a trace-driven simulator to test and compare different system management and scheduling schemes.
Paramagnetic Relaxation Times for Titanium and Chrome Alum

The relaxation times for spin-lattice coupling in titanium and chrome alum are computed on the basis of a specific model obtained by combining the thermodynamic theory of Casimir and du Pr\'e with the writer's previous treatment of the normal modes of a cluster of the form X-6${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$O, where X contains an incomplete shell. The calculation includes both the first-order or direct processes important at low temperatures, and the second-order or "Raman" type of term predominant in the liquid-air region. There is no difficulty in understanding the observed absence of dispersion in titanium alum at liquid-air temperatures, but, barring crystal imperfections, it is hard to understand this absence at helium temperatures unless the nearest excited states are unreasonably deep. The agreement between the orders of magnitude of the calculated and experimental relaxation times is adequate in chromium both at high and low temperatures. The calculations predict, in agreement with experiments, that at liquid-air temperatures the relaxation time should increase when a constant field ${H}_{0}$ is applied and should be independent of the direction of ${H}_{0}$. The computed increase, however, is apparently not great enough. At helium temperatures, $\ensuremath{\tau}$ is theoretically not quite isotropic, and $\frac{d\ensuremath{\tau}}{d{H}_{0}}$ has the wrong sign, unless one abandons the usual formula ${\ensuremath{\rho}}_{\ensuremath{\omega}}\ensuremath{\sim}{\ensuremath{\omega}}^{2}$ for the density of lattice oscillators. The calculations on chromium should also apply qualitatively to iron alum, discussed at the very end.
How you ask counts: a test of internet-related components of response rates to a web-based survey

Previous research on web-based surveys lacks systematic tests of Internet-related factors of unit response rates. Strategies that do not rely on more expensive and time-consuming methods to improve response rates are important for maximizing the utility of this survey mode in social science research. This article presents detailed analyses of response rate data from a two-stage experiment embedded in a web-based survey. These data show that contrary to some previous assertions, theoretically consistent Internet-related strategies for meaningfully improving response rates to web-based surveys exist and that further attempts to identify these mechanisms should focus on invitation and reminder e-mails. This idea is a departure from previous analyses that examine survey content and presentation for sources of variability around web-based survey response rates.
Inheritance of iron deficiency in crosses of dry beans (phaseolus vulgaris L.) 1

Abstract Inheritance of iron‐deficiency chlorosis was determined in the field from crosses between a highly susceptible (PI 165078) and three resistant Great Northern CGN Valley’, ‘GN Emerson’, and “GN UI 59') cultivars of dry edible beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). Segregation of the F. generations indicated quantitative inheritance, with complete dominance for resistance in two crosses. Based on F, segregations, it was hypothesized that the Fe deficiency trait was controlled primarily by two major gene pairs; true breeding susceptible plants were homozy‐gous recessive and resistant plants were homozygous dominant (Fe‐1 Fe‐1, Fe‐2 Fe‐2). No significant relationships between Fe and other elements were noted in leaves, petioles, and stems. Leaves had considerably higher Fe concentrations than either the petioles or stems which were similar.
Uptake and phosphorylation of 2-deoxy-d-glucose by wild-type and single-kinase strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Abstract The role of phosphorylation in sugar transport in baker's yeast was studied using 2-deoxy- d -glucose. In wild-type baker's yeast, 2-deoxy- d -glucose is accumulated as a mixture of the free sugar and several derivatives. Pool labeling experiments, designed to determine the temporal order of appearance of labeled 2-deoxy- d -glucose in the intracellular pools, have confirmed previous reports that 2-deoxy- d -glucose first appears in the sugar phosphate pool. Such results are consistent with a transport associated phosphorylation mechanism. Since wild-type yeasts contain three enzymes which could participate in such a process, hexokinase isozymes PI and PII and glucokinase, pool labeling experiments were carried out with single-kinase mutant strains containing only one of these enzymes. Results similar to those for wild-type strains were obtained for all three single-kinase strains, suggesting that if transport associated phosphorylation does occur in baker's yeast, it is not a function of the specific kinase present in the cell. While the results of the pool labeling experiments are consistent with a transport associated phosphorylation mechanism for 2-deoxy- d -glucose, caution is urged in interpreting the results of experiments with whole cells where problems of compartmentation and multiple pools are difficult to assess.
SITUATIONAL AND TRAIT DETERMINANTS OF COMPETITIVE STATE ANXIETY

53 participants in a weekend tennis tournament completed the Competitive Short Form of the State Anxiety Inventory and questions about the specific situation (e.g., their chance of winning, presence of an audience) immediately before playing a tournament match. Immediately after the match participants completed outcome measures (e.g., win/loss, the impact of tension upon their performance). Two trait anxiety measures were given in a follow-up. Competitive trait anxiety from the Sport Competition Anxiety Test was the best predictor of state anxiety. Perceived chance of winning was the only situational factor which was significantly related to state anxiety. Match outcome was also more closely related to competitive trait anxiety than to state anxiety or generalized trait anxiety. The trait-anxiety measure which focused upon competition was a more useful predictor of state anxiety than the generalized measure, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory.