cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The JPL functional requirements tool

Planetary spacecraft are complex vehicles which are built according to many thousands of requirements. Problems encountered in documenting and maintaining these requirements led to the current attempt to reduce or eliminate these problems by a computer automated data base Functional Requirements Tool. The tool developed at JPL and in use on several JPL Projects is described. The organization and functionality of the Tool, together with an explanation of the data base inputs, their relationships, and use are presented. Methods of interfacing with external documents, representation of tables and figures, and methods of approval and change processing are discussed. The options available for disseminating information from the Tool are identified. The implementation of the Requirements Tool is outlined, and the operation is summarized. The conclusions drawn from this work is that the Requirements Tool represents a useful addition to the System Engineer's Tool kit, it is not currently available elsewhere, and a clear development path exists to expand the capabilities of the Tool to serve larger and more complex projects.
Complement peptides and neuronal dysfunction in the central nervous system: Specificity of receptor sites for anaphylatoxin C3a activity in the rat hypothalamus

The research described centers on the possible activities of complement in neural tissues. Activation of the complement cascade will generate the pharmacologically potent anaphylatoxins C3a and C5a, cleavage peptides of C3 and C5, respectively. Their actions depend on a carboxyterminal arginine, and they are inactivated by a carboxypeptidase in serum, yielding the desarginated derivatives C3ai and C5ai. Using well-characterized eating and drinking responses to focal chemical stimulation of hypothalamic sites in the rat, we have shown that immune complex formation elicits consummatory behaviors which mimic the responses to norepinephrine (NE) and dopamine (DA). We have also shown these effects to be complement dependent. C5a was found to stimulate eating, similar to the effect of NE, and C3a was found to mimic the effect of DA, potentiating NE-induced eating or carbachol-induced drinking. C5a has been shown to act presynaptically to modulate endogenous catecholamine function. In this study 125-C3a binding to a refined synaptosome preparation reveals a C3a binding site which is completely inhibited by C3ai. We also show that the psychopharmacological action of C3a is also antagonized by C3ai. These studies demonstrate the presence of anaphylatoxin-sensitive sites in the perisynaptic membrane systems of the rat CNS. They also suggest that the anaphylatoxins could mediate or contribute to the neuropsychiatric disorders often seen in immune complex disease.
Fungal-algal interactions in Ramalina menziesii and its associated epiphytic lichen community

Abstract: Lichens are a fascinating example of a symbiotic mutualism. It is still uncertain whichprocesses guide fungal-photobiont interactions, and whether they are random or of a more complexnature. Here, the fungal-algal interactions in Ramalina menziesii and co-occurring taxa are analyzedby using DNA sequences of the algal Internal Transcribed Spacer region (ITS), to investigate fungal-algal associations in juvenile R. menziesii and allied species. Algal species were identiﬁed by a com-bination of BLAST searches, median-joining network analysis, and Bayesian phylogenetics. Fungal-algal networks were analyzed for nestedness, both at the species and haplotype level (fungal speciesvs. algal haplotypes), and the networks were inspected for evidence of compartmentalization. Bayesianphylogenetic trees indicated that the widespread green alga Trebouxia decolorans associated withR. menziesii, as well as six other fungal species. Four additional fungal species interacted with fourdifferent species of Trebouxia. Only in one out of ten samples were algal haplotypes shared with thenearest neighbours of juvenile R. menziesii. Fungal-algal species interactions were compartmen-talized, while at the level of algal haplotypes, nestedness was found. This pattern is similar to thecompartmentalization found in other intimately interacting mutualists.Key words: compartmentalization, lichen-forming fungi, nestedness, photobiont, species interactions,speciﬁcity, symbiosisAccepted for publication 7 February 2012
Effects of cardiorespiratory fitness on aging: glucose trajectory in a cohort of healthy men

Abstract Purpose We modeled the age-related trajectory of glucose and determined whether cardiorespiratory fitness altered the trajectory in a cohort of men from the Aerobics Center Longitudinal Study. Methods A total of 10,092 men free of diagnosed diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer, ages 20 to 90 years, completed from 2 to 21 health examinations between 1977 and 2005. Cardiorespiratory fitness was measured by a maximal treadmill exercise test and normalized for age. The covariates included waist circumference, hypertension, elevated cholesterol, smoking behavior, and physical activity. Results Linear mixed models regression analysis showed that fasting glucose increased at a linear rate with aging. Glucose increased at a yearly rate of 0.17 mg/dL (95% confidence interval: 0.16–0.19). Fitness had little influence on the aging glucose trajectory below age 35, but significantly influenced the trend after age 35 ( P for interaction Conclusions The aging-related fasting glucose increases in low-fitness men was nearly double that of high-fitness men. Our results may suggest that it is possible to delay the age-related glucose impairment through increasing one's fitness level.
Attitudes Toward Cooperative Strategies: A Cross-Cultural Analysis of Entrepreneurs

Because entrepreneurs mature within a societal context, their attitudes toward cooperation are likely to be influenced by the underlying values of their society. Using a seven-nation sample, we find that entrepreneurs from feminine, collective, and uncertainty-avoiding societies have a greater appreciation for the strategic importance of cooperative strategies than their counterparts. Moreover, entrepreneurs from feminine societies place greater emphasis on partner commonality in terms of objectives and values to ensure cooperative success, whereas those from individualistic societies emphasize contractual safeguards.
“Temporary Worker, Permanent Loser?”A Model of the Stigmatization of Temporary Workers:

As organizations seek to increase flexibility and reduce costs, temporary work arrangements have increased. In this article, the authors argue that these workers can be the targets of devalued treatment. They develop a model of the individual and organizational antecedents and consequences of temporary worker stigmatization. Then, they articulate the implications of this model for research on workplace stigma and effective utilization of temporary workers.
Spectroscopic characterization of nickel containing desulfurization sorbents

Characterization of nickel-containing desulfurization sorbents was performed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy/energy-dispersive spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and atomic absorption analysis. Sorbent pellets were tested with simulated coal-derived hot fuel gas containing H2S, in a bench-scale fixed-bed reactor. Analysis was performed on both the interior and exterior of the sorbent pellets after both sulfidations and regenerations. In the sulfided sorbents, migration of nickel to the grain surface was observed at the exterior of the sorbent pellet. The nickel migration was less significant at the grain surface of the interior of the pellet. Changes in the oxidation state of the nickel were also observed at the outer surface of the pellet. The sulfur concentration was significantly higher at the outer surface of the pellet, indicating diffusional resistance of the fuel gas to the pellet interior.
Comparison Between Numerically Simulated and Experimentally Measured Flowfield Quantities Behind a Pulsejet

Pulsed combustion is receiving renewed interest as a potential route to higher performance in air breathing propulsion and ground based power generation systems. Pulsejets offer a simple experimental device with which to study unsteady combustion phenomena and validate simulations. Previous computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations focused primarily on pulsejet combustion and exhaust processes. This paper describes a new inlet sub-model which simulates the fluidic and mechanical operation of a valved pulsejet head. The governing equations for this sub-model are described. Sub-model validation is provided through comparisons of simulated and experimentally measured reed valve motion, and time averaged inlet mass flow rate. The updated pulsejet simulation, with the inlet sub-model implemented, is validated through comparison with experimentally measured combustion chamber pressure, inlet mass flow rate, operational frequency, and thrust. Additionally, the simulated pulsejet exhaust flowfield, which is dominated by a starting vortex ring, is compared with particle imaging velocimetry (PIV) measurements on the bases of velocity, vorticity, and vortex location. The results show good agreement between simulated and experimental data. The inlet sub-model is shown to be critical for the successful modeling of pulsejet operation. This sub-model correctly predicts both the inlet mass flow rate and its phase relationship with the combustion chamber pressure. As a result, the predicted pulsejet thrust agrees very well with experimental data.
Nifedipine and Tetrodotoxin Delay the Onset of Methylmercury-Induced Increase in [Ca2+]i in Ng108-15 Cells

Abstract Methylmercury (MeHg) causes a multiphasic disruption of intraneuronal cation regulation. Release of Ca2+ from internal stores and entry of extracellular Ca2+ (Ca2+e) contribute to the temporally distinct early (first Ca2+ phase) and late (second Ca2+ phase) components of increased intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i). The present study was designed to explore the mechanisms mediating the second Ca2+ phase. Fluorescence intensity was monitored from single NG108-15 cells loaded with fura-2 before and during acute application of 2 μM MeHg. Nifedipine (1 or 10 μM but not 0.1 μM) significantly delayed the time-to-onset of the second Ca2+ phase. Nifedipine (1 μM but not 0.1 μM) also caused a concentration-dependent delay in the onset of both the first Ca2+ phase which is independent of Ca2+e and the elevation of non-Ca2+ cation (non-Ca2+ phase). The L-type dihydropyridine (DHP) Ca2+ channel agonist Bay K-8644 (10 nM) had no effect on the time-to-onset of the second Ca2+ phase. Neither the N-type Ca2+ channel blocker ω-conotoxin GVIA (up to 1 μM) nor the nonselective Ca2+ channel blocker Ni2+ (1 mM) altered the time-to-onset of the second Ca2+ phase. Removal of Na+e or addition of the voltage-dependent Na+ channel antagonist tetrodotoxin (TTX, 1 μM) significantly delayed the onset of the second Ca2+ phase. In a manner similar to that for 1 μM nifedipine, TTX also delayed the onset of the other phases. Thus, we hypothesize that MeHg depolarizes the plasma membrane leading to an increase in the activation of voltage-dependent Na+ and Ca2+ channels which promotes, directly or indirectly, the influx of Ca2+ during the second Ca2+ phase.
Total Joint Reconstruction—Autologous or Alloplastic

The functional goals of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) reconstruction are the same regardless of whether they are accomplished with autogenous tissues or alloplastic materials. Which of these reconstruction modalities is best suited for an individual case should depend on the nature of the defect, the pathology that created that defect, the history of the course of the patient's prior nonsurgical and surgical interventions and the response to each, and most importantly on the evidence from refereed literature that supports the choice of alloplast verses autogenous reconstruction based on scientific data. This article provides an evidence-based review of the autogenous and alloplastic TMJ reconstruction literature. The reader can then more accurately determine which of these two modalities provides the most appropriate option for the management of the above conditions so as to achieve the functional goals.
The interactivist model

A shift from a metaphysical framework of substance to one of process enables an integrated account of the emergence of normative phenomena. I show how substance assumptions block genuine ontological emergence, especially the emergence of normativity, and how a process framework permits a thermodynamic-based account of normative emergence. The focus is on two foundational forms of normativity, that of normative function and of representation as emergent in a particular kind of function. This process model of representation, called interactivism, compels changes in many related domains. The discussion ends with brief attention to three domains in which changes are induced by the representational model: perception, learning, and language.
Cytogenetic Research on Hexaploid Alfalfa, Medicago Sativa L.

SUMMARYA spontaneously occurring hexaploid plant (2 n = 6x=48) was found among white-flowered tetraploid plants of Medicago sativa.This plant was studied from a morphological and cytological point of view. All the metaphases observed showed 48 chromosomes, six of which with large satellites. Total chromosome length ranged from μ 1.34 to μ 2.25 whereas that of tetraploid ranged from μ 2.08 to μ 2.83. Most diakinesis showed bivalents and 1 or, more frequently, 2 quadrivalents. Two or more univalents were observed in 56.4% of metaphases I and lagging chromosomes, varying in number from 1 to 4, were observed in 60% of anaphases II. Hexaploid pollen stainability (81%) was the same as in the tetraploid plants used as control (80%). The pollen grains were very variable in diameter (μ) and therefore two classes were distinguished: a smaller (diameter μ. 25.5) and a larger one (diameter μ 40.0). Such variability probably means that the hexaploid plant produces many unbalanced gametes which, in association with mei...
Antenatal exposure to magnesium sulfate and the incidence of patent ductus arteriosus in extremely low birth weight infants.

Antenatal exposure to magnesium sulfate and the incidence of patent ductus arteriosus in extremely low birth weight infants
Hydrolysis of emulsified tributyrin by porcine pancreatic lipase

Abstract A methodology is presented for characterizing the size distribution and calcium content of a tributyrin emulsion. With this procedure, lipolytic activity was monitored as a function of tributyrin interface concentration. Increasing interface concentration at low values accelerated the hydrolysis rate, and decreasing rates were observed as interface concentrations increased above 250 cm −1 . A spin label study of lipase suggests that the enzyme may undergo conformational change at the tributyrin interface .
A microelectronics research and education program for new large area electronic systems

A description is given of a research and education program initiated at Lehigh University to address some of the issues of emerging new large-area electronic systems. These systems include flat panel displays, image sensors, and advanced printers. This program is an extension of the already well established more traditional microelectronics education and research program of Lehigh. The major research thrust of this program is the study and development of high-performance thin-film transistors in polysilicon. These devices will be key circuit components for advanced large-area systems. >
Mutability and relationship between positive and negative symptoms during neuroleptic treatment in schizophrenia

The positive/negative symptom dichotomy is being increasingly utilized to explain the bet- erogeneity of schizophrenia, and poor response to neuroleptic treatment has traditiona!ly been considered to be one of the characteristic fea- tures of the negative syndrome. This issue was emphasized by Crow (1980), who principally based this conclusion on the study by Iohnstone et al. (1978), which found that
Excitation relaxation pathways in p-element (Bi, Pb, Sb and Sn)-doped germanate glasses

Fluorescence decay dynamics of photo-excited p-element (Bi, Pb, Sb, Sn)-doped and Al-codoped germanate glasses have been studied over a wide range of time scales and intensities upon excitation with 800 nm and 532 nm short light pulses. Decay of fluorescence contains several components with different spectral and temperature dependencies in the range from 10 ns to 1000 μs. The temporal evolution of a fluorescence spectrum is discussed. The model of the relaxation of excitation is proposed to explain the experimental data.
Data Detection and Fixed Symbol-Timing Estimation in Flat Fading Channels

This paper deals with data detection in flat fading channels where the symbol sampling instants are unknown. Optimal solution for the problem of estimation of synchronization parameters, such as symbol-timing, in communication systems is analytically intractable, hence most of the approaches found in the literature are based on approximate and heuristic methods. We approach the problem from Bayesian perspective, and jointly estimate the symbol timing and the transmitted symbols using particle filtering techniques. In addressing the problem, we consider the symbol-timing to be fixed and recursively approximate its posterior probability density by a beta distribution function. Moreover, the channel fading is taken as a Rayleigh distributed process and is modeled by a first order autoregressive process. Such modeling yields to the representation of the problem by a dynamic system in a state-space form that allows the application of particle filtering methods for obtaining a near optimal estimation of the transmitted symbols, the symbol timing and the complex amplitude of the fading channel. Computer simulations demonstrate that the proposed algorithm shows excellent performance.
Gene-environment interaction effects on lung function- a genome-wide association study within the Framingham heart study

Background: Previous studies in occupational exposure and lung function have focused only on the main effect of occupational exposure or genetics on lung function. Some disease-susceptible genes may be missed due to their low marginal effects, despite potential involvement in the disease process through interactions with the environment. Through comprehensive genome-wide gene-environment interaction studies, we can uncover these susceptibility genes. Our objective in this study was to explore gene by occupational exposure interaction effects on lung function using both the individual SNPs approach and the genetic network approach. Methods: The study population comprised the Offspring Cohort and the Third Generation from the Framingham Heart Study. We used forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1 )a nd ratio of FEV1 to forced vital capacity (FVC) as outcomes. Occupational exposures were classified using a population-specific job exposure matrix. We performed genome-wide gene-environment interaction analysis, using the Affymetrix 550 K mapping array for genotyping. A linear regression-based generalized estimating equation was applied to account for within-family relatedness. Network analysis was conducted using results from single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-level analyses and from gene expression study results. Results: There were 4,785 participants in total. SNP-level analysis and network analysis identified SNP rs9931086 (Pinteraction =1.16 × 10 -7 )i n geneSLC38A8, which may significantly modify the effects of occupational exposure on FEV1. Genes identified from the network analysis included CTLA-4, HDAC ,a ndPPAR-alpha. Conclusions: Our study implies that SNP rs9931086 in SLC38A8 and genes CTLA-4, HDAC, and PPAR-alpha ,w hich are related to inflammatory processes, may modify the effect of occupational exposure on lung function.
The continuum of hybrid IIX/IIB fibers in normal mouse muscles: MHC isoform proportions and spatial distribution within single fibers

Although skeletal muscle fiber types are often defined as belonging to discrete categories, many muscles possess fibers with intermediate phenotypes. These hybrid fiber types can be identified by their expression of two or more myosin heavy chain (MHC) isoforms within the same single fiber. In mouse muscles, the most common hybrid fibers are those coexpressing the IIX and IIB MHC isoforms. In the present study, we focused on these IIX/IIB fibers from normal mouse muscles to determine the relative proportions of MHC isoforms at both the protein and mRNA levels and to examine the longitudinal distribution of isoforms within single fibers. We found that IIX/IIB hybrids represent ∼25 and 50% of the fibers in the mouse tibialis anterior and brachioradialis, respectively. The relative proportion of the IIX and IIB isoforms in these fibers spans a continuum, from predominantly IIB-like hybrids to IIX-like hybrids. Quantitative assessment of mRNA levels using real-time PCR from single fibers indicated that IIB expression dominated over IIX expression in most fibers and that a general correlation existed between mRNA isoform levels and MHC protein content. However, the match between mRNA levels and protein content was not precise. Finally, we measured MHC isoform proportions in adjacent fiber segments and discovered that ∼30% of hybrids possessed significant differences in isoform content along their length. In some instances, the muscle fiber type as defined by MHC content changed completely along the length of a fiber. This pattern of asymmetrical MHC isoform content along the length of single fibers suggests that the multiple myonuclei of a muscle fiber may express distinct myofibrillar isoforms in an uncoordinated fashion.
Enhancer variants: evaluating functions in common disease

Gene enhancer elements are noncoding segments of DNA that play a central role in regulating transcriptional programs that control development, cell identity, and evolutionary processes. Recent studies have shown that noncoding single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that have been associated with risk for numerous common diseases through genome-wide association studies frequently lie in cell-type-specific enhancer elements. These enhancer variants probably influence transcriptional output, thereby offering a mechanistic basis to explain their association with risk for many common diseases. This review focuses on the identification and interpretation of disease-susceptibility variants that influence enhancer function. We discuss strategies for prioritizing the study of functional enhancer SNPs over those likely to be benign, review experimental and computational approaches to identifying the gene targets of enhancer variants, and highlight efforts to quantify the impact of enhancer variants on target transcript levels and cellular phenotypes. These studies are beginning to provide insights into the mechanistic basis of many common diseases, as well as into how we might translate this knowledge for improved disease diagnosis, prevention and treatments. Finally, we highlight five major challenges often associated with interpreting enhancer variants, and discuss recent technical advances that may help to surmount these challenges.
A Configurable Enhanced TTRAM Macro for System-Level Power Management Unified Memory

A twin-transistor random access memory (TTRAM) can provide high speed, low power and high density with CMOS compatible SOI process. However it is difficult to handle as the unified memory required for advanced SoC because it needs the simple control sensing operation for memory compiler, higher cell efficiency, and lower voltage operation for dynamic frequency and voltage control. Enhanced TTRAM (ET2RAM) applies the actively body-bias control technique to realize the low voltage array operation, and never require the negative voltage source. The ET2RAM can realize both 263 MHz at 0.8 V and 10.2 mW at 0.5 V random-cycle operation, higher cell efficiency, and process scalability. It also provides the simple control method suitable for the unified macro for system-level power management SoC with keeping the merits of TTRAM as CMOS compatibility
Modulation-format transparent optical arbitrary waveform generation based optical-label switching transmitter with all-optical label extraction using FBG

This paper shows a modulation-format transparent optical-label switching transmitter based on optical arbitrary waveform generation. Every generated packet consists of a payload and a label; labels are extracted by a fiber Bragg grating.
Polychaete worm tubes modify juvenile northern rock sole Lepidopsetta polyxystra depth distribution in Kodiak nurseries

Abstract We have observed inter-annual variability in the depth distribution of juvenile northern rock sole Lepidopsetta polyxystra on their nursery grounds around Kodiak Island, Alaska. This study evaluates whether this variability is a response to inter-annual changes in the availability of habitat created by polychaete tubes; principally Sabellides sibirica . We suspect that worm tubes constitute an alternative refuge and/or feeding habitat for juvenile flatfish. Accordingly, we hypothesized that during years of low worm abundance, fish would concentrate in the shallows ( 15 m, where the worms occur) during years when the worms were abundant. Using data on worm abundance and fish density over 5 yr, we tested this hypothesis at 2 Kodiak nursery embayments. Whether worms were abundant in a given year or embayment had no influence on overall fish abundance, however, worm abundance did influence juvenile flatfish depth distributions. At Holiday Beach, where worms tended to be scarce, fish were typically concentrated in shallow water. However, during the 1 year when worms were abundant, fish were concentrated in deeper water. At Pillar Creek Cove, where worms are more regularly found, fish tended to concentrate in deeper water, the exception being the one year when worms were nearly absent. Regression analysis for both sites and all years indicated that the percent of fish occupying shallow water (
New improved bounds for reliability of consecutive-k-out-of-n :f systems

New bounds are found for the reliability of consecutive-k-out-of-n:F systems with equal component failure probabilities. The expressions involved are simple, thus allowing a direct use in the derivation of theoretical properties. These bounds can also be employed in numerical computations when the value of n or k is so large that the exact calculation of the reliability is not achievable. Comparisons show that the approximation errors exhibited by these new formulas are lower than those of other widely used bounds.
Weekly singular integral for creep rate of concrete

Despite decades of intensive research, an entirely satisfactory constitutive relation for creep in concrete is still unavailable, even for working stress levels [I]. The rate-type creep laws with internal variables [2], although rather effective for numerical creep analysis of large structural systems, seem to be incapable of describing the aging phenomena without at least partially violating some thermodynamic requirements [2]. This suggests that, for a complete description of creep in concrete, an integral-type law might be inevitable.
Semicontinuous Culture of Magnetospirillum gryphiswaldense MSR-1 Cells in an Autofermentor by Nutrient-Balanced and Isosmotic Feeding Strategies

An improved strategy was developed for the high-density culture of Magnetospirillum gryphiswaldense strain MSR-1 and large-scale magnetosome production in both 7.5- and 42-liter autofermentors. By using a nutrient-balanced feeding strategy and the replacement of carbon and nitrogen sources to reduce accumulation of Na(+) and Cl(-) ions, we reduced the factors that tend to inhibit cell growth, particularly the increase of osmotic potential. Semicontinuous culture was thereby achieved in the autofermentor for the first time. When the cells were harvested at 36 and 73 h, magnetosome yields (dry weight) as high as 168.3 and 83.5 mg/liter/day, respectively, were achieved. These values were, respectively, approximately 10 and 5 times higher than the yields achieved in previous studies and represent a significant improvement in magnetosome production efficiency.
Diverse birth and rearing environment effects on pig growth and meat quality.

Birth and rearing conditions were evaluated for their effects on pig growth, body composition, and pork quality using 48 barrows during the spring and summer months. Pigs were either farrowed in indoor crates or outdoor huts. At weaning, indoor-born and outdoor-born pigs were randomly allotted to indoor or outdoor treatments for growing/finishing. Body weight data were collected. Pigs were transported 5 h to a commercial processing plant, allowed 2 h of rest, and then processed as a group under commercial conditions. Boneless loins were collected from the left side of each carcass and aged for 14 d. Objective and subjective color measurements were taken on the longissimus muscle at the 10th rib on d 14 postmortem. Loin chops were evaluated for sensory attributes, shear force, and retail display features. Pigs born outdoors were heavier and had greater ADG at all growth intervals after weaning (d 28, 56, 112, and final weight, P < 0. 05) than pigs born indoors. Outdoor-born pigs had heavier carcass weights (91.2 vs 81.3+/-3.4 kg, P < 0.001), larger loineye areas (54.6 vs 49.7+/-0.2 cm , P < 0.05), and higher pork flavor intensity scores (6.5 vs 6.1+/-0.10, P < 0.01) than indoor-born pigs. Birth x rearing environment interactions were not significant for most measures. Backfat measurements at the last rib were greater (3.2 vs 2.8+/-0.05 cm, P < 0.05) for the pigs reared outdoors than for the pigs reared indoors. Pigs finished outdoors had more reddish pink color scores, lower shear force values, and lower L* values, indicating darker-colored pork, compared with pigs finished indoors (P < 0.05). Pig birth environment played a significant role in improving growth rates of outdoor-born pigs and increasing pork flavor intensity scores of loin chops from pigs born outdoors. Finishing pigs outdoors may improve pork color and tenderness but also may increase backfat thickness when they are fed conventional diets.
Inoculation message treatments for curbing noncommunicable disease development

OBJECTIVE: To study the effect of various types of inoculation message treatments on resistance to persuasive and potentially deceptive health- and nutrition-related (HNR) content claims of commercial food advertisers. METHODS: A three-phase experiment was conducted among 145 students from a Midwestern U.S. university. Quantitative statistical analyses were used to interpret the results. Results: Results provide clear evidence that integrating regulatory focus/fit considerations enhances the treatment effectiveness of inoculation messages. Inoculation messages that employed a preventative, outcome focus with concrete language were most effective at countering HNR advertising claims. The findings indicate that inoculation fosters resistance equally across the most common types of commercially advertised HNR product claims (e.g., absolute, general, and structure/function claims). CONCLUSIONS: As the drive to refine the inoculation process model continues, further testing and application of this strategy in a public health context is needed to counter ongoing efforts by commercial food advertisers to avoid government regulations against deceptive practices such as dubious health/nutrition claims. This research advances inoculation theory by providing evidence that 1) good regulatory fit strengthens the effect of refutational preemption and 2) an inoculation approach is highly effective at fostering resistance to commercial advertisers' HNR content claims. This macro approach appears far superior to education or information-based promotional health campaigns targeted solely at specific populations demonstrating rising rates of noncommunicable disease.
Delamination cracking in encapsulated flip chips

In this paper, finite element analyses of delamination in flip chip assemblies are described. The objectives of this study were to investigate delamination at the encapsulant/chip interface along the thickness of the chip under thermal loading, and to determine the potential for interconnection failures resulting from this type of delamination. Under operating conditions, the mismatch in thermal expansion between the silicon chip of a flip chip assembly and an organic substrate subjects the solder joints to extremely large strains, which may result in premature failure of the solder connections. Although underfill encapsulation can reduce the strains in the solder joints, it results in the potential for cracking at the chip-underfill-substrate interfaces during temperature cycling. Due to the CTE mismatch, a strong interfacial shear stress concentration develops near the free edge; when this stress exceeds the bonding strength between the encapsulant and the silicon, an interface crack will initiate, may further propagate toward the encapsulated corner of the chip, and then continue along the active face of the chip. Once this adhesion is lost, the solder joints are subjected directly to the strain resulting from the CTE mismatch, and are likely to crack under thermal cycling conditions. In the model, a crack was introduced along the chip edge/encapsulant interface. The crack tip driving force was studied for chips of different sizes. The finite element method was used in the analyses in conjunction with the theory of interfacial fracture mechanics.
The Effects of English Language Proficiency and Curricular Pathways: Latina/os’ Mathematics Achievement in Secondary Schools

This study analyzes nationally-representative quantitative data from the first (2002) and second (2004) waves of the Educational Longitudinal Study to examine the relationship between Latina/o secondary school students’ degree of English-language proficiency (ELP), mathematics course-taking measures, and 12th grade mathematics achievement. Employing a Hierarchical Linear Models (HLM) analytic strategy to account for students’ clustering in specific schools, this study contributes empirical evidence that course-taking and ELP are influential predictors of 12th grade mathematics achievement. Findings from this study exemplify that maximizing Latina/os’ mathematics achievement requires access to rigorous mathematics coursework and the provision of pedagogical and institutional supports that develop students’ proficiency in both the mathematics register and ELP.
Neuropeptide Y acts at an atypical receptor to evoke cardiovascular depression and to inhibit glutamate responsiveness in the brainstem.

Microinjection of neuropeptide Y (NPY) into the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) induces an initial and reversible fall in arterial pressure (AP) and heart rate (HR), along with a delayed and long-lasting blockade of cardiovascular responses to L-glutamate (L-Glu) injected into the same site and an inhibition of the baroreflex arc. By injecting NPY-receptor subtype selective agonists and NPY-related peptides into NTS we have sought to characterize the receptors that mediate these responses. Unilateral injections into NTS (9-90 pmol) of NPY as well as the Y1 receptor selective agonist [34Pro]NPY and the Y2 receptor selective fragment NPY 13-36 evoked comparable dose-dependent falls of AP and HR in the anesthetized and paralyzed rat. Injections into NTS of peptide YY or pancreatic polypeptide had no effect. Preinjection of NPY, [34Pro]NPY, NPY 13-36 (all at 90 pmol) as well as norepinephrine (6.7 nmol) virtually abolished the fall in AP and HR evoked by subsequent injections of L-Glu into NTS. Injection of peptide YY or pancreatic polypeptide (both at 90 pmol) did not affect the cardiovascular responses evoked by L-Glu in NTS. Injection of NPY (90 pmol) into the caudal ventrolateral medulla induced a slight fall in AP of -17 +/- 5 mm Hg (P less than .05) and a sustained fall in HR of -44 +/- 8 beats per min (P less than .01). Injection of NPY also abolished the fall in HR and AP evoked by L-Glu in the caudal ventrolateral medulla. The profile of the cardiovascular effects elicited by the NPY-related peptides in NTS does not correspond to either of the Y1 or the Y2 receptor subtypes. The findings suggest that NPY acts on an atypical receptor in NTS to lower AP and HR. Moreover, this receptor may also interfere with the L-Glu-evoked neurotransmission in the NTS. Finally, norepinephrine shared with NPY the ability to inhibit L-Glu-evoked responses in NTS; however, a much higher dose of norepinephrine (than NPY) was required.
GPU-based real-time implementation of 3D+T image reconstruction with application to cerebral angiography

Time sequences of 3D images of cerebral and other vasculature blood flow during surgery and other medical procedures allow enhanced visual feedback. The visual feedback constitutes an enhancement over the existing 2D time series of Xray projections as it facilitates the detection and observation of pathological abnormalities such as stenoses, aneurysms, and blood clots. An algorithm that outputs 3D+T sequences by fusing a single static 3D model of the vasculature with two time sequences of 2D projections was presented in [1]. Practical clinical use demands that the reconstruction be completed within a 5 minute time frame. When compared to CPU implementations, past GPU-based CT (computational tomography) implementations typically achieved one order-of-magnitude speed improvement, still insufficient speed for this application. To obtain further needed GPU speedup, we exploit the sparse structure of blood vasculature in order to achieve a total of two orders-of-magnitude performance increase. Our GPU implementation generates a 3D+T time series reconstruction in 2 minutes, enabling real time clinical use and safer, shorter procedures. Included in our approach is an architecture-aware partitioning method that accelerates the solution to a wide class of variational problems.
The soil seed bank of a montane meadow: consequences of conifer encroachment and implications for restoration

We examined changes in the soil seed bank associated with conifer encroachment of montane meadows in the western Cascade Range of Oregon. We asked whether, and over what period of time, meadow species maintain viable seeds in the soil, and by implication, whether the seed bank can contribute to restoration if conifers are removed. Seed bank composition, ground vegetation, and forest age structure were quantified for 209 samples representing a chronose- quence of open meadow, young forest ( 200 years). The seed bank was substantial (44 taxa and 2332 germinants/m 2 ), but dominated by native ruderals (16 species comprising 71% of germinants). Greater than 70% of meadow species were absent from the seed bank. Thirteen meadow species accounted for 21% of all germinants, but most of these were the dominant sedge, Carex pensylvanica Lam.. Seed density, richness, and composition showed weak relationships to forest age, and little resemblance to the ground vegetation, which changed markedly with forest de- velopment. Our results suggest that there is limited potential for recovery of most meadow species via the seed bank. Nat- ural reestablishment of these species will require seed dispersal or gradual vegetative spread from existing openings, but competitive interactions with ruderal or forest species may limit recruitment or recovery.
Survey of upper extremity injuries among martial arts participants

Purpose: To survey participants at various experience levels of different martial arts (MA) about upper extremity injuries sustained during training and fighting. Materials: A 21-s question survey was designed and utilised. The survey was divided into four groups (Demographics, Injury Description, Injury Mechanism, and Miscellaneous information) to gain knowledge about upper extremity injuries sustained during martial arts participation. Chi-square testing was utilised to assess for significant associations. Results: Males comprised 81% of respondents. Involvement in multiple forms of MA was the most prevalent (38%). The hand/wrist was the most common area injured (53%), followed by the shoulder/upper arm (27%) and the forearm/elbow (19%). Joint sprains/muscle strains were the most frequent injuries reported overall (47%), followed by abrasions/bruises (26%). Dislocations of the upper extremity were reported by 47% of participants while fractures occurred in 39%. Surgeries were required for 30% of participants. Females were less likely to require surgery and more likely to have shoulder and elbow injuries. Males were more likely to have hand injuries. Participants of Karate and Tae Kwon Do were more likely to have injuries to their hands, while participants of multiple forms were more likely to sustain injuries to their shoulders/upper arms and more likely to develop chronic upper extremity symptoms. With advanced level of training the likelihood of developing chronic upper extremity symptoms increases, and multiple surgeries were required. Hand protection was associated with a lower risk of hand injuries. Conclusion: Martial arts can be associated with substantial upper extremity injuries that may require surgery and extended time away from participation. Injuries may result in chronic upper extremity symptoms. Hand protection is important for reducing injuries to the hand and wrist.
Brazil's New Floating Exchange Rate Regime and Competitiveness in the World Poultry Market

In early 1999, Brazil devalued its currency, increasing its competitiveness in the poultry industry and capturing world market share. This paper discusses the devaluation and its effects on Brazil's trade, evaluates preliminary statistics on the impact of the devaluation on world poultry markets, and reports the results from a computable general equilibrium (CGE) simulation of the devaluation. The medium-run CGE results are compared to the short-run impacts reflected in the preliminary statistics.
Thermal aging effects on the mechanical properties of as-cast Ni3Al-based alloy

Abstract A series of tensile tests were conducted at room and elevated temperatures on specimens of the alloy known as IC221M (Ni–8.2Al–7.6Cr–1.5Mo–2.1Zr, wt.%). Specimens were tested in the as-cast condition or after aging in either air or Ar for up to 1000 h at 900–1100 °C. Room temperature yield strength decreased continuously with aging time at 900 °C from the as-cast value of 530–320 MPa after 1000 h. A similar trend was found for hardness. The strength reductions with aging time at 900 °C were similar for aging in either air or Ar. For aging at 1050 and 1100 °C, aging in air caused significant strength loss that was attributed to aggressive oxidation. The room temperature yield strength of specimens aged in Ar increased for aging at 1050 and 1100 °C. Microhardness testing also showed that specimens aged at 1100 °C had higher hardness than those aged at 900 °C. Analysis using equilibrium thermodynamics suggested that the increases of yield strength and hardness resulted from increasing the amount of fine γ′ precipitation in the alloy matrix. For testing at elevated temperatures, the as-cast alloy had room temperature yield strength of 530 MPa that increased continuously up to a value of 650 MPa at 700 °C. Aging in Ar for 1000 h at 900 °C resulted in a room temperature yield strength of 320 MPa that increased to 560 MPa at 700 °C and decrease slightly to 550 MPa at 900 °C. Aging in Ar for 1000 h at 1100 °C produced room temperature yield strength of 435 MPa that increased to 550 MPa at 500 °C and decreased continuously at high test temperatures. The behavior of these specimens was also rationalized using equilibrium thermodynamics to estimate the fractions of coarse and fine γ′ particles in the microstructures.
One-Dimensional Ordering of Self-assembled Ge Dots on Photolithographically Patterned Structures on Si (001)

We report spatial arrangement of self-assembled Ge quantum dots on patterned structures on Si (001) without using complicated lithography. Starting from stripes and mesas fabricated by conventional lithography and plasma etching, we prepare sinusoidal Si stripes with narrow ridges and mesas with humped edges via high-temperature annealing. Deposited Ge self-assembles into coherent nanocrystals that align along the narrow ridges of the stripes and the sloped mesa edges. Enhanced strain relief at the ridges due to elastic relaxation and the high step densities on the shallow slopes at the edges are likely causes of nanocrystal alignment.
Enhanced keratinocyte prostaglandin synthesis after UV injury is due to increased phospholipase activity

The possibility that increased eicosanoid synthesis in skin after ultraviolet light irradiation is due to enhanced phospholipase activity was examined. [3H]arachidonic acid-labeled human keratinocyte cultures exposed to 30 mJ/cm2 ultraviolet (UV) B were studied 6 h after injury. Bradykinin-stimulated release of [3H]arachidonic acid was increased 1.8-fold over release from control cultures by prior irradiation. In unlabeled cultures, prior irradiation produced a threefold increase in bradykinin-stimulated prostaglandin (PG) E2 synthesis as measured by immunoassay. The relative contribution of increased phospholipase vs. cyclooxygenase activity was therefore examined using stable isotope mass measurements of PGE2. By this method, prior irradiation increased bradykinin-stimulated phospholipase activity 3.5-fold, while no change in total cellular cyclooxygenase activity was observed. The effects of irradiation on phospholipase activity were then assessed in more detail. The activities of phospholipase A2, arachidonoyl-CoA synthetase, and arachidonoyl-CoA lysophosphatide acyltransferase in cell homogenates were determined. No effect of UV exposure on the activity of these enzymes was observed. These results suggest that the increase in prostaglandin synthesis produced after UV irradiation is due to increased phospholipase activity, thus enhancing arachidonate release.
Closed Suction Drainage Has No Benefits in Anterior Hip Arthroplasty: A Prospective, Randomized Trial

Abstract Background Many studies have challenged routine drain placement in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty. Some studies suggest increased transfusion rate with the use of closed suction drains. The use of tranexamic acid to control surgical bleeding and aspirin for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis has gained popularity. No study has evaluated the use of drains in patients undergoing direct anterior total hip arthroplasty under these conditions. Methods We performed a prospective, randomized study in patients undergoing direct anterior total hip arthroplasty to evaluate whether closed suction drain placement provides any clinical benefit. Patients randomly assigned to the control group had closed suctions drains placed; patients randomly assigned to the treatment group had no drains placed. The primary outcome measures were hematoma formation, wound complications, and transfusion rates. The secondary outcome measures were estimated blood loss, decrease in hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, total hemoglobin loss, calculated blood loss, hidden blood loss, and total length of hospital stay. Differences in outcomes between groups were considered to be significant at P ≤ .05. Results There were no significant differences between groups in transfusion rate ( P = .49), postoperative decrease in hemoglobin levels ( P = .95), average calculated blood loss ( P = .65), complications ( P = .49), or length of hospital stay ( P = .14). There was no hematoma formation observed in either group. Conclusion Our study showed no clinical benefit or disadvantage to closed suction drainage in anterior hip arthroplasty with the concomitant use of tranexamic acid for surgical hemostasis and aspirin for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis.