cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Global thrust faulting on the Moon and the influence of tidal stresses

Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Camera images reveal a vast, globally distributed network of over 3200 lobate thrust fault scarps, making them the most common tectonic landform on the Moon. Based on their small scale and crisp appearance, crosscutting relations with small-diameter impact craters, and rates of infilling of associated small, shallow graben, these fault scarps are estimated to be younger than 50 Ma and may be actively forming today. The non-random distribution of the scarp orientations is inconsistent with isotropic stresses from late-stage global contraction as the sole source of stress. We propose that tidal stresses contribute significantly to the current stress state of the lunar crust. Orbital recession stresses superimposed on stresses from global contraction with the addition of diurnal tidal stresses result in non-isotropic compressional stress and thrust faults consistent with lobate scarp orientations. The addition of diurnal tidal stresses at apogee result in peak stresses that may help trigger coseismic slip events on currently active thrust faults on the Moon.
Control of cancer-related anemia with erythropoietic agents: a review of evidence for improved quality of life and clinical outcomes

Background: Anemia occurs frequently in patients with cancer and is associated with impaired healthrelated quality of life (HRQOL). Treatment of anemia results in significant improvements in energy, activity and overall HRQOL, particularly among patients with mild-to-moderate anemia. Importantly, studies have indicated that anemia may have a negative impact on the success of radiotherapy, reducing survival and locoregional control. Recent preclinical and preliminary clinical data have also suggested that anemia may be associated with poorer outcomes following chemotherapy or surgery. Materials and methods: Data for review were identified and selected from searches of the literature published from January 1990 through to October 2002 using Medline ® , and searches of proceedings from key international oncology and hematology meetings. Results: A wealth of data indicate that treatment of anemia improves HRQOL in patients with cancer. Prospective studies exploring survival and/or treatment outcomes in anemic cancer patients are currently in their early stages, preventing any firm conclusions from being drawn, although they do indicate a benefit in treating anemia. Conclusions: Recent studies support the use of erythropoietic agents in anemic cancer patients as a means of raising their hemoglobin levels and consequently improving their HRQOL. Randomized, controlled trials are needed to determine whether treating anemia with erythropoietic agents will improve other outcomes
The Nanny Cam, latex gloves, and two-finger touch: New technologies for disciplining bodies

Drawing on a range of personal caregiver experiences and risk analysis frameworks, this paper offers a critical reflection on related policy and practices in the U.S., focusing particularly on risk and it's impact on early childhood education. It develops a critique of the taken for granted imperative to protect children from any and all risks, and of how in the classroom context that is conflated with the idea of protecting teachers and children from real and potential risks. It addresses the complexities of on-going anxiety in the U.S. about the relationships between children and adults in popular teaching settings, and the new categories of risk vulnerability that these discourses have generated.
Time-varying associations between confidence and motivation to abstain from marijuana during treatment among adolescents

Abstract Introduction An important goal of addictions treatment is to develop a positive association between high levels of confidence and motivation to abstain from substance use. This study modeled the time-varying association between confidence and motivation to abstain from marijuana use among youth in treatment, and the time-varying effect of pre-treatment covariates (marijuana abstinence goal and perceived peer marijuana use) on motivation to abstain. Method 150 adolescents (75% male, 83% White) in community-based intensive outpatient treatment in Pennsylvania completed a pre-treatment assessment of abstinence goal, perceived peer marijuana use, and motivation and confidence to abstain from marijuana. Ratings of motivation and confidence to abstain also were collected after each session. A time-varying effect model (TVEM) was used to characterize changes in the association between confidence and motivation to abstain (lagged), and included covariates representing pre-treatment abstinence goal and perceived peer marijuana use. Results Confidence and motivation to abstain from marijuana generally increased during treatment. The association between confidence and motivation strengthened across sessions 1–4, and was maintained through later sessions. Pre-treatment abstinence goal had an early time-limited effect (through session 6) on motivation to abstain. Pre-treatment perception of peer marijuana use had a significant effect on motivation to abstain only at session 2. Conclusions Early treatment sessions represent a critical period during which the association between confidence and motivation to abstain generally increased. The time-limited effects of pre-treatment characteristics suggest the importance of early sessions in addressing abstinence goal and peer substance use that may impact motivation to abstain from marijuana.
Hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells expand into functional PMN at sites of S. aureus-infected wounds (INC7P.426)

Staphylococcus aureus is a frequent cause of chronic nosocomial skin and soft tissue infections that can spread to muscle, bone and connective tissue. In response to infection, a heterogeneous population of circulating and bone marrow (BM)-derived cells are recruited to the site of injury where they collectively contribute to host defense and tissue repair. Polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) serve a critical role as the first-line effectors responsible for innate immune protection against bacterial challenge. Using a transgenic mouse model of S. aureus-infected skin wounds, we recently reported that a subset of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPC) that are lineage negative, Sca-1+ and c-kit+ (LSK cells) undergo local granulopoiesis and account for as much as 30% of total PMN within the abscess (Granick et al., 2013). Follow up studies show that LSK cells are stimulated directly by the agonist PAM3CSK4 in a manner dependent on TLR2/MyD88 and PGE2 signaling. We show that local granulopoiesis differs from myeloid proliferation within the BM revealing functional divergence of PMN produced at the site of wounding. Current efforts are focused on signaling effects of PGE2 that can manipulate the expansion capability of LSK during infection in wounds in order to gain an advantage over chronic and persistent Staphylococcus aureus infections.
When longevity meets vitality

Alarmed by the sustainability of our health and social security systems, longevity has become a great societal challenge. In line with evolutionary logic we see a continuous increase of average life expectancy and maximal lifespan. Striving for a healthy old age, however, is an infelicitous expression as for human subjects the ageing process cannot be ultimately postponed. Not disregarding the huge variation in health trajectories, in old age we will all suffer from frailty and infirmity. As yet efforts of the biomedical arena are almost exclusively focused on stalling the ageing process and preventing dysfunction. Too little effort is spend on how to inspire and coach the great majority of people who still feel relatively well notwithstanding the presence of multiple age-related disorders. There is a strong rationale to separate the quest to live in good health for longer from actively and effectively negotiating the challenge of functional decline in old age. In particular, we emphasise a focus on adjusting the environment in order to correct the gene–environment mismatch that contributes to ill health. An additional strategy is to empower people to set ambitions and to realise appropriate goals, in spite of infirmity. Striving for vitality presents a striking opportunity to achieve subjective feelings of life satisfaction when ageing.
Embodying place: An ecotheological reading of Cormac McCarthy’s The Road

The blackened landscape of Cormac McCarthy’s The Road (2006) suggests the possibility of a future restoration of the earth through the survival of the nameless boy, who is variously figured as a fi...
Effect of Electromagnetic Field on Microstructure and Properties of 5052 Aluminum Alloy Sheets by Roll-Casting

5052 aluminum alloy sheets were produced by the conventional twin-roll casting( TRC) process w ith static magnetic field and alternating oscillating field,and the microstructure w ere investigated by optical microscopy. The results showed that when the pouring temperature is 690 ℃, the dendrites formed under the 0. 25 T static magnetic field are refined,and the microstructure is equiaxed. How ever,the grains grow in non-homogeneous form,compared to the non-field sheets. Under 0. 25 T static magnetic field and 450 A alternating current conditions,the central structure of the sheet consists of uniform equiaxed grains, resulting from the vibration of electromagnetic force. The highest yield strength and tensile strength are up to 122 and 235 MPa, respectively,due to the equiaxed grains formed on the entire sheet by the alternating oscillating field. In this forming condition,the most superior properties can be obtained.
Delayed Hypersensitivity: Immunologic and Clinical Aspects

Some 18 experimental autoallergic diseases, almost all of which have clinical counterparts, have now been studied. From these and other studies have emerged not only clear definition of the histologic events in cellular hypersensitivity but also rapid progress toward development of techniques which would greatly enhance the possibility of preventing or more effectively suppressing these responses.
Write Another Poem about Marigold: Meaningful Writing as a Process of Change.

In this article, I consider a process approach toward the goal of meaningful writing which may aid in positive personal change. From outlining recent criticism of contemporary poetry, to arguing against the tradition and practice of craft in the writing of poetry, I move to propose a means of writing centered on a method of inquiry, which involves the elements of self-involvement, curiosity, risk to think in a new way, and development of the new possibility through extensive thought.
Communication and Mental Health

Interpersonal communication processes are adversely affected by many mental health problems and in some cases may be risk factors for mental health problems. Four major interpersonal communication processes that play a role in mental health are highlighted: social skills deficits, communication deviance, expressed emotion, and lack of social support. The association between these interpersonal processes and schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, substance abuse disorders, personality disorders, and loneliness are discussed. Keywords: anxiety; communication skills; health communication; interpersonal communication
Vector Competence of American Mosquitoes for Three Strains of Zika Virus.

In 2015, Zika virus (ZIKV; Flaviviridae; Flavivirus) emerged in the Americas, causing millions of infections in dozens of countries. The rapid spread of the virus and the association with disease outcomes such as Guillain-Barre syndrome and microcephaly make understanding transmission dynamics essential. Currently, there are no reports of vector competence (VC) of American mosquitoes for ZIKV isolates from the Americas. Further, it is not clear whether ZIKV strains from other genetic lineages can be transmitted by American Aedes aegypti populations, and whether the scope of the current epidemic is in part facilitated by viral factors such as enhanced replicative fitness or increased vector competence. Therefore, we characterized replication of three ZIKV strains, one from each of the three phylogenetic clades in several cell lines and assessed their abilities to be transmitted by Ae. aegypti mosquitoes. Additionally, laboratory colonies of different Culex spp. were infected with an American outbreak strain of ZIKV to assess VC. Replication rates were variable and depended on virus strain, cell line and MOI. African strains used in this study outcompeted the American strain in vitro in both mammalian and mosquito cell culture. West and East African strains of ZIKV tested here were more efficiently transmitted by Ae. aegypti from Mexico than was the currently circulating American strain of the Asian lineage. Long-established laboratory colonies of Culex mosquitoes were not efficient ZIKV vectors. These data demonstrate the capacity for additional ZIKV strains to infect and replicate in American Aedes mosquitoes and suggest that neither enhanced virus replicative fitness nor virus adaptation to local vector mosquitoes seems likely to explain the extent and intensity of ZIKV transmission in the Americas.
Goethe’s “ELEGIE”: A Non-Biographical Approach

(1965). Goethe’s “ELEGIE”: A Non-Biographical Approach. The Germanic Review: Literature, Culture, Theory: Vol. 40, No. 2, pp. 75-86.
Scleral Lenses in the Management of Ocular Surface Disease

Scleral devices can play a vital role in the treatment of ocular surface disease, both as an adjunct to traditional therapy and as an alternative when traditional therapies fail. With proper utilization, gas-permeable scleral lenses can promote healing of the ocular surface and improve debilitating symptoms related to severe dry eye syndrome secondary to conditions such as GVHD or Sjogren’s syndrome as well as persistent epithelial defects. Scleral lenses can also provide a safer alternative to surgery for patients with corneal irregularity who can no longer tolerate traditional gas-permeable corneal lenses. Scleral lenses and PROSE devices should be considered in all of these situations when traditional treatment modalities have failed.
Long-run and short-run budgeting: empirical evidence for canada, uk, and usa

This paper tests public budgeting as a long-run and short-run process; political decision makers strive to head toward budgetary balance over the long run but are constrained in the short run and follow incremental decision-making. First, the budget equilibrium theory is stated and is used to explain the relationship between revenues and expenditures. Second, the interaction between expenditures and revenues is tested with a vector error correction model for Canada, UK and the US, using annual time series data between 1948 and 2000. The results show that, in the long-run, revenues are the driving force behind the budget in Canada; in the UK expenditures force the budget toward balance. In the short-run, incrementalism occurs in both of these countries. The most interesting finding is for the United States where on-budget revenues and expenditures both push the budget toward balance over the longrun but there is no incrementalism in the process in the short-run. This, of course, is contrary to much of the existing literature.
Snapshots of a Feminist Poet: Adrienne Rich and the Poetics of the Archive

(2017). Snapshots of a Feminist Poet: Adrienne Rich and the Poetics of the Archive. Women's Studies: Vol. 46, Adrienne Rich, pp. 628-645.
New Analytical Solutions of Wellbore Fluid Temperature Profiles during Drilling, Circulating, and Cementing Operations

Abstract Historically, the formulation of the wellbore temperature profiles during drilling, circulating, and cementing operations relied upon the boundary condition or BC at the bottomhole location, wherein the tubular and annular temperatures become equal. This study presents two other formulations to explore alternative to bottomhole BC's that may potentially occur in wellbores. Application of the energy balance in the wellbore for both forward and reverse circulations underpins all three formulations. The wellbore temperature profiles generated by implementing the energy balance in the system depends on the type of the boundary condition used. Initially, we generated various temperature profiles using these models. In general, we observed that the maximum temperature occurs at the end of the tubular or some distance away from the bottom. For open and cased-hole sections, the difference in heat-transfer coefficients triggers different magnitudes of heat transfer and affects the corresponding temperature profiles. We compared the performance of our models with those presented in the literature. Thereafter, we sought to validate the models with diverse set of field data. Given the ability of all three models to handle changes in the geothermal gradient due to the characteristics of the sediments, salt domes, and gas hydrates, we explored their performance in situations where there is significant heat transfer. The holistic approach pursued here provided the necessary insights into various temperature profiles in a given situation.
Optical Wiretap Channel With Input-Dependent Gaussian Noise Under Peak- and Average-Intensity Constraints

This paper studies the optical wiretap channel with input-dependent Gaussian noise, in which the main distortion is caused by an additive Gaussian noise whose variance depends on the current signal strength. Subject to nonnegativity and peak-intensity constraints on the channel input, we first present a practical optical wireless communication scenario for which the considered wiretap channel is stochastically degraded. We then study the secrecy-capacity-achieving input distribution of this wiretap channel and prove it to be discrete with a finite number of mass points, one of them located at the origin. Moreover, we show that the entire rate-equivocation region of this wiretap channel is also obtained by discrete input distributions with a finite support. Similar to the case of the Gaussian wiretap channel under a peak-power constraint, here too, we observe that under nonnegativity and peak-intensity constraints, there is a tradeoff between the secrecy capacity and the capacity in the sense that both may not be achieved simultaneously. Furthermore, we prove the optimality of discrete input distributions in the presence of an additional average intensity constraint. Finally, we shed light on the asymptotic behavior of the secrecy capacity in the low- and high-intensity regimes. In the low-intensity regime, the secrecy capacity scales quadratically with the peak-intensity constraint. On the other hand, in the high-intensity regime, the secrecy capacity does not scale with the constraint.
Faraday Cup Designs for Ion Implantation

As a general materials processing approach, ion implantation possesses tremendous leverage due to its insensitivity to chemical reactions exhibited by bulk material diffusions, its extendability to large target dimensions, and its ability to be mask-defined with small lateral spreading and controlled depths [1–3], In its practical execution, ion implantation employs the electromagnetic properties of the ions to regulate the energy, species, total flux and areal distribution of the dopant material. A given target response to the incident ions can be used as a continuous monitor of the implant status and, under proper conditions, can provide a means for closed-loop process control.
A reinforcement learning approach to personalized learning recommendation systems

Personalized learning refers to instruction in which the pace of learning and the instructional approach are optimized for the needs of each learner. With the latest advances in information technology and data science, personalized learning is becoming possible for anyone with a personal computer, supported by a data-driven recommendation system that automatically schedules the learning sequence. The engine of such a recommendation system is a recommendation strategy that, based on data from other learners and the performance of the current learner, recommends suitable learning materials to optimize certain learning outcomes. A powerful engine achieves a balance between making the best possible recommendations based on the current knowledge and exploring new learning trajectories that may potentially pay off. Building such an engine is a challenging task. We formulate this problem within the Markov decision framework and propose a reinforcement learning approach to solving the problem.
Measuring Diode Resistivity of Passivated Contacts

A technique of examining carrier-selective, passivated contacts is presented, where the contact resistivity is found from the measured diode characteristic. Importantly, this extends the understanding of a passivated contact's resistivity to the case where it is also used to form an emitter or p-n junction. For a p-type poly-Si passivated contact/emitter on n-Cz wafer, we find a low contact resistivity ρc <; 5 mΩ cm2 using this method. This low ρc value is promising for high-efficiency n-type Si cells having p-poly passivated contacts as the emitter. In particular, for interdigitated back contact (IBC) cells using a p-type passivated contact as the partial-area rear emitter.
Prognostic impact of the Bismuth-Corlette classification: Higher rates of local unresectability in stage IIIb hilar cholangiocarcinoma.

ABSTRACT Background The Bismuth-Corlette (BC) classification is used to categorize hilar cholangiocarcinoma by proximal extension along the biliary tree. As the right hepatic artery crosses just behind the left bile duct, we hypothesized that BC IIIb tumors would have a higher likelihood of local unresectability due to involvement of the contralateral artery. Methods A retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database identified patients with hilar cholangiocarcinoma taken to the operating room for intended curative resection between April 2008 and September 2016. Cases were assigned BC stages based on preoperative imaging. Results Sixty-eight patients were included in the study. All underwent staging laparoscopy after which 16 cases were aborted for metastatic disease. Of the remaining 52 cases, 14 cases were explored and aborted for locally advanced disease. Thirty-eight underwent attempt at curative resection. After excluding cases aborted for metastatic disease, the chance of proceeding with resection was 55.6% for BC IIIb staged lesions compared to 80.0% of BC IIIa lesions and to 82.4% for BC I-IIIa staged lesions (P Conclusions When hilar cholangiocarcinoma is preoperatively staged as BC IIIb, surgeons should anticipate higher rates of locally unresectable disease, likely involving the right hepatic artery.
Impact of postemergence herbicides on soybean injury and canopy formation

Field studies were conducted in 2017 and 2018 in Arkansas to evaluate the injury caused by herbicides on soybean canopy formation and yield. Fomesafen, acifluorfen, S-metolachlor + fomesafen, and S-metolachlor + fomesafen + chlorimuron alone and in combination with glufosinate were applied to glufosinate-resistant soybean at the V2 growth stage. Soybean injury resulting from these labeled herbicide treatments ranged from 9% to 25% at 2 wk after application. This level of injury resulted in a 4-, 5-, 6-, and 6-d delay in soybean reaching 80% groundcover following fomesafen, acifluorfen, S-metolachlor + fomesafen, and S-metolachlor + fomesafen + chlorimuron, respectively. There was a 2-d delay in soybean reaching a canopy volume of 15,000 cm3 following each of the four herbicide treatments. The addition of glufosinate to the herbicide applications resulted in longer delays in canopy formation with every herbicide treatment except glufosinate + fomesafen. Fomesafen, acifluorfen, S-metolachlor + fomesafen, and S-metolachlor + fomesafen + chlorimuron, each applied with glufosinate, delayed soybean from reaching 80% groundcover by 2, 7, 8, and 9 d, respectively, and delayed the number of days for soybean to reach a canopy volume of 15,000 cm3 by 2, 3, 2, and 2 d, respectively. No yield loss occurred with any herbicide application. A delay in percent groundcover in soybean allows sunlight to reach the soil surface for longer periods throughout the growing season, possibly promoting late-season weed germination and the need for an additional POST herbicide application.
Pediatrician Exposure to Neuromuscular Patients.

Background Primary care providers (PCPs) provide general care to patients, including those who are followed by specialists. In the field of rare diseases, there is growing research that the primary care needs of these patients are unique to their individual disease state. The purpose of this study is to determine the prevalence of patients with pediatric neuromuscular diseases among a subset of pediatric practices in Southeastern Wisconsin. Methods A retrospective review of all patients with neuromuscular diseases seen at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin (CW) was conducted from January 1, 2016 through September 30, 2018. All patients who were seen by Children's Medical Group (CMG) providers were included, with a division of patients by provider. Results Eight hundred eleven (811) unique pediatric neuromuscular patients were identified; 188 patients were included in the study cohort. The median number of patients per provider was 2.5, mean number of patients was 2.68, and mode number of patients was 1.74; 51% of pediatricians within CMG did not care for a pediatric neuromuscular patient. Discussion The prevalence of patients with neuromuscular diseases followed by an individual CMG provider is low, with over half of the CMG providers not caring for any patients with neuromuscular diseases. Given the specific primary care knowledge needed to care for these patients, this suggests the need for a novel method of help support these providers.
The 1960s: The Role of Feminism and the Women’s Movement

Chapter 2 examines the effect that the women’s movement or so-called second-wave feminism had on women’s decisions to pursue a career in medicine. It chronicles the development of the National Organization for Women (NOW) and the history of the women’s movement with its focus on women seeking information about their own bodies and their wish to assume control of their reproductive health. The effect of the shortage of women physicians and the attitudes of feminist activists toward the profession of medicine are examined. Major upheavals in societal norms occurred during this decade; these set the stage for the increased acceptance of women in medicine that took place in a more visible way in the subsequent decades.
#MeToo in Professional Associations: Harassment, Gender, and Power

The #MeToo movement highlighted that sexual harassment continues to impede progress towards gender equity in institutions across society. In science and academia, professional associations are an often untapped—but potentially important—resource for addressing sexual harassment and gender equity. They mirror and potentially recreate power differentials in academic hierarchical institutions, however they also have the potential to ameliorate (gendered) inequalities. Professional associations set norms for professional behaviour, ethics, and research integrity for example, at conferences, in communications, and in selecting their members for awards and gatekeeping positions. Together with universities and funding agencies, professional associations can help to frame gender and sexual harassment as violations of ethical norms and research integrity in order to combat harassment and promote gender equity in the academy.
Transcriptomic Response Dynamics of Human Primary and Immortalized Adrenocortical Cells to Steroidogenic Stimuli

Adrenal steroid hormone production is a dynamic process stimulated by adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and angiotensin II (AngII). These ligands initialize a rapid and robust gene expression response required for steroidogenesis. Here, we compare the predominant human immortalized cell line model, H295R cell, with primary cultures of adult adrenocortical cells derived from human kidney donors. We performed temporally resolved RNA-seq on primary cells stimulated with either ACTH or AngII at multiple time points. The magnitude of the expression dynamics elicited by ACTH was greater than AngII in primary cells. This is likely due to the larger population of adrenocortical cells that are responsive to ACTH. The dynamics of stimulus-induced expression in H295R cells are mostly recapitulated in primary cells. However, there are some expression responses in primary cells absent in H295R cells. These data are a resource for the endocrine community and will help researchers determine whether H295R is an appropriate model for the specific aspect of steroidogenesis that they are studying.
A Neighborhood Analysis of Time Trends in COVID-19 Infection in NYC.

To understand how observed COVID-19 diagnostic testing disparities across New York City (NYC) have impacted infection rates and COVID-19 spread, we examined neighborhood-level factors associated with, and the spatial distribution of, antibody test and infection rates, and compared changes over time by NYC ZIP code tabulation area (ZCTA). Data were obtained from 2019 American Community Survey 5-year estimates to create an SES index by ZCTA. Other predictors obtained from 2018 census data were the proportions of white residents, Hispanic residents and residents ≥ 65 years old. Multivariable Poisson regressions were performed to assess the rate of change for antibody testing and positivity, and to assess the independent associations with SES, race and age. Results: There was a significant association between the rate of antibody tests and SES quartiles (Q1: βadj = 0.04, Q2: βadj = 0.03 and Q3: βadj = − 0.03, compared to Q4), and the proportion of residents who are white (βadj = 0.004, p < .0001), Hispanic (βadj = 0.001, p < .0001), and ≥ 65 years (βadj = 0.01, p < .0001). Total number of positive antibody tests was significantly inversely associated with SES quartile (Q1: βadj = 0.50, Q2: βadj = 0.48 and Q3: βadj = 0.29, compared to Q4), and proportion of white residents (β = − 0.001, p < .0001) and ≥ 65 years (β = − 0.02, p < .0001), and significantly positively associated with proportion of Hispanic residents (β = 0.003, p < .0001). There are disparities in antibody testing and positivity, reflecting disproportionate impacts and undercounts of COVID-19 infection across NYC ZCTAs. Future public health response should increase testing in these vulnerable areas to diminish infection spread.
The psychological effects of police work

1 * An Overview of the Psychodynamic Approach.- 2 * Why Everybody Loves and Hates Cops.- 3 * Why Cops Love and Hate Everybody.- 4 * Why Cops Love and Hate the Work.- 5 * How Cops React to Ambivalence.- 6 * A Psychodynamic View of Some Issues in Police Work.- 7 * Clinical Reactions to the Effects of Police Work.- 8 * Some Modest Proposals.- References.
Real-time tracking and pose estimation for industrial objects using geometric features

This paper presents a fast tracking algorithm capable of estimating the complete pose (6DOF) of an industrial object by using its circular-shape features. Since the algorithm is part of a real-time visual servoing system designed for assembly of automotive parts on-the-fly, the main constraints in the design of the algorithm were: speed and accuracy. That is: close to frame-rate performance, and error in pose estimation smaller than a few millimeters. The algorithm proposed uses only three model features, and yet it is very accurate and robust. For that reason both constraints were satisfied: the algorithm runs at 60 fps (30 fps for each stereo image) on a PIII-800 MHz computer, and the pose of the object is calculated within an uncertainty of 2.4 mm in translation and 1.5 degree in rotation.
The soil perfusion technique for the biological degradation of sulfite waste liquor.

Considerable attention has been given to chemical methods of reducing the Biochemical Oxygen Demand (B.O.D.) of semi-chemical neutral sulfite waste (S.N.W.). Very little study has been devoted to a biological method. The exact composition of this paper industry waste will vary with the type of wood chip used and the modification of cook. Table 1 shows a typical composition of the liquor resulting from a semi-chemical soda cook.
Hot-carrier charge trapping and trap generation in HfO2 and Al2O3 field-effect transistors

We present a comprehensive experimental study of hot-carrier trap generation and charging effects in high-κ dielectrics using field-effect transistors fabricated with HfO2 and Al2O3 gate insulator stacks and polycrystalline silicon gates. The experiments utilize substrate injection of hot carriers generated either optically or by direct injection in the dark from a forward-biased p–n junction. Comparison of charge-trapping measurements taken using these two techniques on n-channel field-effect transistors (nFETs) and p-channel field-effect transistors (pFETs) finds that enhanced charge trapping occurs when hot holes are present (in the light or in the dark in pFETs but only under illumination in nFETs). A fundamental understanding of the conditions for hot-carrier damage in nFETs is obtained by studying the dependence on light wavelength, temperature, and substrate bias. In particular, the wavelength dependence reveals that the hot-carrier damage depends on a combination of the electron and photon energie...
Water Transport Across Cell Membranes

This chapter is focused on the pathways and molecular mechanisms of water transport across the plasma membrane of animal cells. We discuss basic principles of water transport, including diffusion and osmosis and apply these concepts to the case of cell-membrane water transport. The general conclusion is that diffusion and osmosis can explain water transport and that other mechanisms (e.g. cotransport) are less likely. Concerning the pathways for water movement across the plasma membrane, we consider the lipid bilayer, water-selective pores (aquaporins – AQPs), nonselective larger pores, ion channels and membrane carriers. We conclude that the lipid bilayers and AQPs are the main pathways for transmembrane water fluxes, by solubility–diffusion and single-file transport, respectively. Cell-membrane water permeability varies considerably from cell to cell; high permeability denotes a fluid lipid bilayer and expression of AQPs. Low water permeability occurs when there is no aquaporin expression and membrane is rich in cholesterol. Key Concepts: Water transport across cell membranes occurs by diffusion and osmosis. The effective osmolality of a biological fluid is determined by the total solute concentrations and the solutes’ permeabilities, relative to water. The cell-membrane osmotic water permeability varies from cell to cell, depending on the composition of the lipid bilayer and the presence or absence of water pores. The two main pathways for plasma-membrane water transport are the lipid bilayer and water-selective pores (aquaporins). Aquaporins are a large family of water pores; some isoforms are water-selective whereas others are permeable to small solutes. Aquaporin 1 (AQP1), the best studied isoform, is present in the membrane as a tetramer; each monomer has a water pore. The pore of AQP1 is long and narrow (c. 2.8 A diameter); water molecules lose their hydrogen bonds and permeate in single file. AQP-mediated water permeability appears to be regulated mostly by controlling the number of molecules present in the membrane. Regulation of the ‘opening’ of the pores has also been proposed for some isoforms. AQP1 genetic deletion in mice causes profound alterations of renal function, consistent with a major physiological role of this protein. Keywords: water transport; diffusion; osmosis; permeability; pores; cell membranes; aquaporin
Analytic signal representation of the synthetic seismogram of bright spots

Transformation of seismic signals into their analytic signal representation permits the unique separation of envelope, instantaneous phase, instantaneous frequency and apparent polarity. These parameters are useful in extracting the physical properties of a seismic signal and help in geophysical and geological interpretation. Deconvolution methods can improve the quality of the analytic seismic signal representation. From simulation studies it is found that time and space adaptive deconvolution significantly improves the quality of the analytic signal representation.
Object oriented simulation of multimedia on demand services over ATM network

The paper presents a simulation model of a generic system to support multimedia-on-demand services over an ATM network. The simulation has been performed using an object-oriented approach. Discrete event system specification (DEVS) methodology has been used in the design and implementation of the simulation. This simulation approach also helped in the development of a modular, re-usable and easily extendable model of a multimedia-on-demand system. Also, this approach is shown to be very useful in adapting the basic model to simulate any of the multimedia-on-demand services mentioned above. To illustrate this, we have simulated a movie-on-demand service using our generic multimedia-on-demand simulation model. We have demonstrated the real-time nature, scalability and cost-effectiveness of a movie-on-demand system based upon our generic multimedia-on-demand system. This model will be useful for studying the performance of facilities such as movie-on-demand, interactive network games, multimedia libraries etc.
Fuzzy marking Petri nets: concepts and definition

This paper introduces the concepts and definition of fuzzy marking Petri nets. Previous approaches on fuzzy Petri nets were developed for specification purposes and therefore were restricted to safe nets and lacked the ability of analysis using the well developed Petri nets methods and tools. Fuzzy marking Petri nets are presented here as an extension of stochastic Petri nets in which markings are imprecise numbers represented by fuzzy membership functions. An algorithm for computing fuzzy markings is derived and justified. Applications to intelligent manufacturing and controls are discussed.
Pseudo-inhibitor of aminoacyl transfer RNA formation from Bacillus subtilis.

Abstract 1. 1. The aminoacylation of tRNA in vitro by Bacillus subtilis enzymes was inhibited by high concentrations of tRNA. 2. 2. An inhibitor fraction was separated from partially purified B. subtilis tRNA fractions. Some physical and chemical properties of this fraction are reported. 3. 3. An examination of the action of this inhibitor fraction revealed that part of its inhibitory action was actually due to the prevention of trichloroacetic acid precipitation of the aminoacyl-tRNA during aminoacylation assays. Ethanol precipitation of aminoacyl-tRNA was not inhibited by this fraction.
A Gis‐Based Approach to Watershed Classification for Nebraska Reservoirs

Abstract: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is charged with establishing standards and criteria for assessing lake water quality. It is, however, increasingly evident that a single set of national water quality standards that do not take into account regional hydrogeologic and ecological differences will not be viable as lakes clearly have different inherent capacities to meet such standards. We demonstrate a GIS-based watershed classification strategy for identifying groups of Nebraska reservoirs that have similar potential capacity to attain a certain level of water quality standard. A preliminary cluster analysis of 78 reservoirs was performed to determine the potential number of Nebraska reservoir groups. Subsequently, a Classification Trees method was used to refine number of classes, describe the structure of reservoir watershed classes, and to develop a predictive model that relates watershed conditions to reservoir classes. Results suggest that Nebraska reservoirs can be represented by nine classes and that soil organic matter content in the watershed is the most important single variable for segregating the reservoirs. The cross-validation prediction error rate of the Classification Tree model was 26.3%. Because all geospatial data used in this work are available nationally, the method could be adopted throughout the U.S. Hence, this GIS-based watershed classification approach could provide water resources managers an effective decision-support tool in managing reservoir water quality.
An exploration in interface design for the Chinese migrant worker population

This sketch aims to better understand the process of designing products that fit the Chinese cultural framework, and keep attuned to China-specific design issues by addressing a specific social concern facing modern China. This project targets migrant working mothers living in China's urban centers and proposes a system for them to communicate with their children who remain at home in rural villages. A specific design problem is used as a vehicle to uncover more fundamental and broadly-applicable issues of designing for the Chinese. A design sketch of this system is presented, as are the more fundamental issues that our design process uncovered. These issues include difficulties in Chinese character input, interfaces on a Chinese scale, and the Chinese people's sense of privacy.
Paresthesia of the Mental Nerve after an Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Apical Periodontitis

A case is reported of paresthesia in the area of the mental nerve, which may have been exacerbated by home remedies. Conventional endodontic therapy was applied.
Turbulent wakes of stratified flow past a cylinder

Laboratory measurements were carried out to investigate the evolution of a turbulent wake behind a right circular cylinder moving in a linearly stratified fluid. The flow field is mainly determined by the internal Froude number Fi and the Reynolds number Re, but at high Re, Fi becomes the only governing parameter. Measurements show that stratified turbulent wakes can be classified into three flow regimes, based on Fi. When Fi<2, the wakes do not grow downstream, and remain at an approximately constant height. For 2<Fi<3, the wakes grow to a maximum height at Nt≊5 and then collapse physically; for Fi≳3, the maximum height is achieved at Nt≊2.5, before the collapse begins. The evolution of such other length scales as the Ozmidov, Kolmogorov, overturning, and Thorpe scales and the maximum Thorpe displacements was measured, and their behavior in the above Fi ranges was delineated. Length scale diagrams for the evolution of stratified turbulence in cylinder wakes were constructed and compared with previous theoretical predictions. The present results provide new insights into the evolution, collapse, and long‐term evolution of stratified turbulent flows.
Green tea extract protects against nonalcoholic steatohepatitis in ob/ob mice by decreasing oxidative and nitrative stress responses induced by proinflammatory enzymes.

Oxidative and nitrative stress responses resulting from inflammation exacerbate liver injury associated with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) by inducing lipid peroxidation and protein nitration. The objective of this study was to investigate whether the anti-inflammatory properties of green tea extract (GTE) would protect against NASH by suppressing oxidative and nitrative damage mediated by proinflammatory enzymes. Obese mice (ob/ob) and their 5-week-old C57BL6 lean littermates were fed 0%, 0.5% or 1% GTE for 6 weeks (n=12–13 mice/group). In obese mice, hepatic lipid accumulation, inflammatory infiltrates and serum alanine aminotransferase activity were markedly increased, whereas these markers of hepatic steatosis, inflammation and injury were significantly reduced among obese mice fed GTE. GTE also normalized hepatic 4-hydroxynonenal and 3-nitro-tyrosine (N-Tyr) concentrations to those observed in lean controls. These oxidative and nitrative damage markers were correlated with alanine aminotransferase (P<.05; r=0.410–0.471). Improvements in oxidative and nitrative damage by GTE were also associated with lower hepatic nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase activity. Likewise, GTE reduced protein expression levels of hepatic myeloperoxidase and inducible nitric oxide synthase and decreased the concentrations of nitric oxide metabolites. Correlative relationships between nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase and hepatic 4-hydroxynonenal (r=0.364) as well as nitric oxide metabolites and N-Tyr (r=0.598) suggest that GTE mitigates lipid peroxidation and protein nitration by suppressing the generation of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. Further study is warranted to determine whether GTE can be recommended as an effective dietary strategy to reduce the risk of obesity-triggered NASH.
Metalloproteinases and cell fate: Notch just ADAMs anymore

Notch signaling is involved both in development as well as in multiple cancers, including pancreatic cancer. Its activity has been implicated early in pancreatic disease, shown to be essential for a pre-cancerous transdifferentiation event known as acinar-to-ductal metaplasia (ADM). Recently, we have shown that matrix metalloproteinase-7 (MMP-7) is essential for ADM by activating the Notch pathway, challenging the notion that ADAM metalloproteinases are the sole enzymes responsible for initiating Notch activity. In ADM, ADAMs do not compensate for the absence of MMP-7 activity. We propose that during development and stem cell maintenance, Notch activation is highly regulated by the binding of Notch ligand to receptor and employs the ubiquitously-expressed ADAMs, whereas in a disease state, high levels of induced MMP-7 activity can lead to aberrant ligand-independent Notch activation. Therefore, if ADM or PDA is to be blocked by inhibiting Notch, treatment with ADAM-specific inhibitors alone will be inadequate. Other approaches for Notch inhibition, including by gamma-secretase and broad-spectrum MMP inhibitors, will be discussed.
Voltammetry of 2,5-diphenyloxazole in acetonitrile-fuming sulfuric acid mixtures

Abstract 2,5-Diphenyloxazole is protonated by sulfuric acid in acetonitrile solvent. The existence of a simple acid base equilibrium is demonstrated by u.v.—visible spectroscopy. Polarographic and cyclic voltammetric data suggest that the protonated heteroaromatic is reduced in a diffusion-controlled step at potentials slightly less negative than the nonprotonated form.
Probing genetic control of swine responses to PRRSV infection: current progress of the PRRS host genetics consortium

Background Understanding the role of host genetics in resistance to porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) infection, and the effects of PRRS on pig health and related growth, are goals of the PRRS Host Genetics Consortium (PHGC).
PBTE as a Research Vehicle: A Way Out of the Forest.

The move into Performance-Based Teacher Education has been precipitous. Rather than a one-shot move into what passes for a full PBTE format, a gradual phasing-in operation concurrent with suitable research seems desirable. Without the research information, PBTE may become another bandwagon passing across the educational scene without making any discernible change in teacher education. Some consistent view of the overall educational enterprise and of the teaching act, relating these to PBTE, is an absolute necessity. The PBTE move provides a useful research vehicle regardless of any verdict reached on its efficacy as a teacher education format. Current funding of educational research on a scale appropriate to the kinds of questions needing study appears limited. This suggests that a viable approach to researching both those vital questions connecting what teachers do and acceptable goals for pupils and PBTE as a vehicle must employ existing program components such as microteaching. This also suggests similar research designs be employed in many places if the summation of results is to provide useful information.