cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Postmenopausal bilateral oophorectomy is not associated with increased fracture risk in older women.

We studied whether oophorectomy performed after menopause is associated with an increased risk of hip or vertebral fractures in 6295 Study of Osteoporotic Fractures participants. There was no association between postmenopausal oophorectomy and the risk of hip or vertebral fractures. Introduction: Bilateral oophorectomy after natural menopause has been associated with an increased risk of osteoporotic fractures, potentially because of a decline in serum estradiol and testosterone levels after the oophorectomy. We prospectively tested this hypothesis in the Study of Osteoporotic Fractures (SOF). Materials and Methods: We studied 6295 white women ⩾65 years of age participating in the SOF who were not taking estrogen therapy at baseline. Hip fracture analyses included 708 hip fractures; vertebral fracture analyses included 267 incident vertebral fractures. Baseline serum estradiol and free testosterone values were available in a small subset of participants. Results and Conclusion: There were no significant differences in age, weight, or BMD between the women who underwent postmenopausal oophorectomy (n = 583) and those who did not (n = 5712). Free testosterone levels were significantly lower among women who had a postmenopausal oophorectomy. A history of postmenopausal oophorectomy was not associated with an increased risk of hip (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.1; 95% CI = 0.9-1.5) or vertebral fracture (HR = 0.7; 95% CI = 0.5-1.2). The relationship between oophorectomy and hip fracture was not altered by adding serum estradiol level (HR = 1.3; 95% CI = 0.5-3.2) or serum free testosterone level (HR = 1.7; 95% CI = 0.8-3.7) to the model. In summary, postmenopausal oophorectomy was not associated with an increased risk of hip or vertebral fracture in this cohort. These results are in contrast to previous findings, suggesting that the relationship between postmenopausal oophorectomy and fractures is not fully elucidated and that incidental oophorectomy after menopause should still be considered carefully in each potential patient.
Sensation seeking, stress, and adolescent injuries : a test of stress-buffering, risk-taking, and coping skills hypotheses

The potential stress-buffering effects of sensation seeking were assessed in a prospective study involving high school athletes. A significant positive relation between major negative sport-specific life events and subsequent injury time-loss occurred only for athletes low in sensation seeking. No evidence was obtained for a competing hypothesis that high sensation seeking would constitute an injury vulnerability factor by increasing risk-taking behaviors. Although low sensation seekers reported poorer stress management coping skills, there was no evidence that differences in coping efficacy mediated the injury vulnerability difference. Results indicate that sensation seeking is a stress-resiliency factor and suggest the utility of assessing relations between life stressors and outcomes that occur within the same environmental context.
A high density microelectrode array biosensor for detection of E. coli O157:H7.

Abstract A high density microelectrode array biosensor was developed for the detection of Escherichia coli O157:H7. The biosensor was fabricated from (1 0 0) silicon with a 2 μm layer of thermal oxide as an insulating layer, an active area of 9.6 mm2 and consists of an interdigitated gold electrode array. The sensor surface was functionalised for bacterial detection using heterobifunctional crosslinkers and immobilised polyclonal antibodies to create a biological sensing surface. Bacteria suspended in solution became attached to the immobilised antibodies when the biosensor was tested in liquid samples. The change in impedance caused by the bacteria was measured over a frequency range of 100 Hz–10 MHz. The biosensor was evaluated for E. coli O157:H7 detection in pure culture and inoculated food samples. The biosensor was able to discriminate between cellular concentrations of 104–107 CFU/mL and has applications in detecting pathogens in food samples.
Superconducting and normal state properties of Li 1+x Ti 2−x O 4 spinel compounds. I. Preparation, crystallography, superconducting properties, electrical resistivity, dielectric behavior, and magnetic susceptibility

LiTi 2 O 4 is one end member of the homogeneity range of the spinel phase Li 1+x Ti 2−x O 4 (0≤x≤1/3) and is superconducting at temperatures up to 13.7 K. Various measurements were carried out in order to characterize the superconducting and normal state properties of LiTi 2 O 4 and of other compositions within the homogeneity range of the spinel phase. These measurements establish LiTi 2 O 4 as ad-band superconductor and show thatT c decreases to <1.5 K forx≳0.1. This disappearance of superconductivity with increasingx was found to be correlated with anomalous changes in the lattice parameter with composition, and, from electrical resistivity measurements, is tentatively attributed to the occurrence of a composition-induced metal-semiconductor transition atx≈0.1. The metallic character of LiTi 2 O 4 and the composition dependence of the observed electrical properties are shown to follow from crystallographic considerations.
Characterizing derivation trees of context-free grammars through a generalization of finite automata theory

The recognizable sets of value trees (pseudoterms) are shown to be exactly projections of sets of derivation trees of (extended) context-free grammars.
Cold-Start Characteristics of Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells: A Simplified Analysis

In this paper, we investigate the electrochemical reaction kinetics, species transport, and solid water dynamics in a polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC) during cold start. A simplified analysis is developed to enable the evaluation of the impact of ice volume fraction on cell performance during cold-start. Supporting neutron imaging data are also provided to reveal the real-time water evolution. Temperature-dependent voltage changes due to the reaction kinetics and ohmic loss are also analyzed based on the ionic conductivity of the membrane at subfreezing temperature. The analysis is valuable for the fundamental study of PEFC cold-start.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
SU‐FF‐J‐17: Accuracy and Dosimetric Advantage of Target Localization Using Stereoscopic Image‐Guided Radiotherapy for Lung Cancer Treatment

Purpose: We analyzed the accuracy of stereoscopic image‐guidedradiotherapy (S‐IGRT) with the ExacTrac® system (BrainLAB AG, Heimstetten, Germany), and demonstrated the dosimetric advantage for lungcancer treatment. Methods: The accuracy of target localization using the ExacTrac system was analyzed by re‐scanning ten patients immobilized in the Vac‐loc bag with BB tags put on the isocenter marks determined by the ExacTrac system. The re‐scanned CT data from each patient was fused and compared to the isocenter locations on the original CT used for the treatment planning. The Active Breathing Coordinator™ (Elekta, Norcross, GA) was employed to minimize the breathing motion effect on S‐IGRT. The dosimetric advantage of S‐IGRT was demonstrated by comparing the normal lung volume receiving 15%, 30% and 50% of the prescription dose (V15%, V30% and V50%) between the plans with smaller margins in the S‐IGRT and those with normal margins in the conventional radiotherapy for the ten patients. Results: The average isocenter shifts using S‐IGRT were within 3.4 ±1.7mm in the lateral, 3.6±1.9mm in the anterior/posterior, and 2.2±3.2mm in the superior/inferior directions. The added margins around the CTV to create the PTV were chosen to be 10mm in the superior/inferior and 5mm in radial direction for the lungcancertreatment planning in S‐IGRT. For the ten patients with CTV volume from 8.3cm3 to 43.4cm3 and lung volume from 2736cm3 to 3640cm3, the averages of V15%, V30% and V50% were 17.4%, 9.8%, 5.9% for the S‐IGRT plans, and 33.4%, 18.2%, 12.8% for the conventional radiotherapy plans with 2cm margins in the all directions. Conclusion: The S‐IGRT with the ExacTrac system provided highly accurate tumor localization. The margins from CTV to PTV in S‐IGRT treatment planning could be reduced significantly due to the accurate target localization which will reduce the lung volume receiving doses in the medium and low ranges.
Mechanism of Continence After Repair of Posterior Urethral Disruption: Evidence of Rhabdosphincter Activity

Purpose: Controversy exists regarding continence mechanisms in patients who undergo posterior urethral reconstruction after pelvic fracture. Some evidence suggests that continence after posterior urethroplasty is maintained by the bladder neck or proximal urethral mechanism without a functioning distal mechanism. We studied distal urethral sphincter activity in patients who have undergone posterior urethroplasty for pelvic fracture.Materials and Methods: A total of 12 patients who had undergone surgical repair of urethral disruption involving the prostatomembranous region underwent videourodynamics with urethral pressure profiles at rest, and during stress and hold maneuvers. Bladder pressure and urethral pressure, including proximal and distal urethral sphincter activity and pressure, were assessed in each patient.Results: All 12 patients had daytime continence of urine postoperatively with a followup after anastomotic urethroplasty of 12 to 242 months (mean 76). Average maximum urethral pressure was 71 ...
Land reclamation requirements and their estimated effects on the coal industry

Abstract This paper develops a model of the bituminous coal industry that is then used to simulate the price, output, and employment effects of land reclamation requirements in strip mining (other things equal). Our main conclusion is that a requirement to return strip-mined land to its approximate original contour and vegetative cover would have only slight effects on either sector of the industry. We estimate that such a requirement, had it been imposed in 1971, would have decreased strip-mining employment and output by 2.370, while inducing an increase in underground employment more than sufficient to offset these job losses.
Cell Mediated Immunity: Separation of Cells Involved in Recognitive and Destructive Phases

The mixed leukocyte culture (MLC) and the cell mediated lympholysis (CML) assays are used as in vitro models of the afferent, or recognitive, and efferent, or destructive, phases of the homograft reaction. Activity in both of these tests has been related to differences at the major histocompatibility complex, HL-A in man and H-2 in mouse. Recent evidence suggests that the presumed cell surface differences which lead to cell proliferation in MLC are different from those which act as a target for CML. Data are presented providing further support for this hypothesis; in addition separate cell populations may respond to the differences which activate cells in MLC and to the differences which serve as targets for CML. There thus appears to be a dichotomy both for genetic control of, and cell populations involved in, the recognitive and destructive phases of cell mediated immunity.
Toxicity to estuarine organisms of leachates from chromated copper arsenate treated wood.

The effects of chromated copper arsenate (CCA), used for treating wood in docks, pilings, and bulkheads, were studied in several estuarine organisms. Leaching of metals from treated wood into sea water was assayed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry.
Tips of the slongue: The enduring legacy of W.A. Spooner

Slips of the tongue are common and often amusing phonic errors. Although surely not the first speaker to make such transpositions, W.A. Spooner (1844–1930) was well known for them and was the source of the eponym, “Spoonerism.” Several of his noted slips are presented along with a whim sical obstetric presentation.
Dark-Germination of Reciprocal Hybrid Seed from Light-Requiring and -Indifferent Nicotiana tabacum

Seed resulting from self-fertilization of Nicotiana tabacum plants was tested for germination in uninterrupted darkness at monthly intervals beginning at time of harvest. All seed lots were light-requiring immediately after harvest. Some lots continued to be light-requiring, but others gradually became light-indifferent during storage under laboratory conditions. One light-requiring and one light-indifferent selection were self-pollinated, and reciprocally crossed. The seed resulting from self-fertilization was light-requiring or light-indifferent, respectively, according to the parentage. Seed resulting from the reciprocal crosses differed in dark-germinability. Further, dark-germination of seed from each of the reciprocal crosses differed from that of either parent. Both parents contributed toward light sensitivity of the seed; however, contribution of the maternal parent was greater than that of the pollen parent.
Effect of rapid normalization of plasma glucose levels on microvascular dysfunction and polyol metabolism in diabetic rats.

Effects of rapid normalization of plasma glucose levels (by insulin infused via Alzet pumps implanted intraperitoneally) on plasma insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) levels, granulation tissue polyol levels, and vascular permeation by 125I-labeled albumin were examined in male Sprague-Dawley rats with streptozocin-induced (60–65 mg/kg) diabetes. Two days after implantation of pumps, plasma insulin levels were twice normal levels and remained elevated (1.4–2.5 times normal) throughout the remainder of the study. Plasma glucose levels and granulation tissue polyol levels were normalized within 2 days after initiation of insulin treatment. Plasma IGF-I levels were significantly increased (2 times) by 2 days, but were not normalized until 7 days. In contrast, 125I-albumin permeation normalized at a much slower relatively linear rate and was still not completely normal after 14 days of insulin treatment. In view of 1) previous studies demonstrating that diabetes-induced increases in 125I-albumin permeation in this tissue are linked to increased metabolism of glucose to sorbitol and 2) the rapid normalization of tissue polyol levels in this study, the relatively linear rate of normalization of vascular permeability over 14 days in these studies suggests that impaired vascular barrier functional integrity in this model is mediated by structural and/or functional vascular alterations associated with sustained increased polyol metabolism rather than by increased polyol levels per se and/or by readily reversible functional and metabolic alterations associated with acute increases in polyol metabolism. The relatively long lag time after normalization of plasma glucose and tissue polyol levels before near normalization of vascular permeability in this model isconsistent with corresponding observations on the relationship between improved glycemic control and normalization of microangiopathy and neuropathy in diabetic humans and animals. The slow relatively linear rate of normalization of vascular permeability after normalization of plasma insulin and glucose levels and tissue polyol levels suggests that normalization of impaired vascular barrier function in this model is accomplished by a repair process (probably involving turnover of altered vascular constituents), the precise nature of which remains to be elucidated.
CEO Stakeholder Attitudes and Corporate Social Activity in the Fortune 500

Various corporate social activities were regressed on self-report measures of stakeholder-orientations from 220 CEOs from large Fortune 500 industrial and service firms. Overall, the relationship b...
Laboratory testing of pile fabrics — A proposed flammability standard

At the request of the Consumer Product Safety Commission, the National Bureau of Standards developed a proposed standard for the flammability of upholstered furniture. This paper briefly describes the proposed standard and its history, and examines the performance of pile fabrics tested at the University of Washington Textile Laboratories in accordance with the provisions of the proposed standard.
Finite element discretization of open-type axisymmetric elements

A series of open-type elements which are compatible with axisymmetric thin shell elements have been dervied. These elements allow the effects of intermediate openings and discrete support systems for rotational shells to be realistically modelled in the dynamic regime. Also, consistent load vectors for several common cases are derived. The availablility of these elements in a public domain computer program enhances the possibility for modelling systems which are basically axisymmetric but which include intermediate or end supports using a rotational shell code.
Microscopically Controlled Excision of Malignant Neoplasms on and around Eyelids Followed by Immediate Surgical Reconstruction

Mohs' fresh-tissue technique of ablating malignant neoplasms is a highly reliable, yet conservative method of treating cutaneous cancers. Removal of such lesions on eyelids by this technique, followed by immediate reconstruction is a most efficacious way to manage them. Forty-seven cases of recurrent, invasive, or large carcinomas on eyelids and canthi were excised by this method followed by immediate reconstruction. The excisions were done by dermatologists specializing in Mohs' techniques and the reconstruction by an oculoplastic surgeon. The advantages of the combined procedures are: 1) high cure rate, 2) conservation of tissue, 3) reduced operating time, and 4) maximum utilization of specialized competence.
Near-IR optical properties of canine prostate tissue using oblique-incidence reflectometry

Optical imaging systems utilizing near-infrared light sources such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) have recently been used for imaging the prostate gland. However, the optimal wavelength for deep imaging of the prostate has yet to be determined. The objective of this study is to determine the optimal near-infrared wavelength for OCT imaging of the prostate using a system that has the potential to be used in an in vivo model. An obliqueincidence single point measurement technique using a normal-detector scanning system was implemented to determine the absorption (μa) and reduced scattering coefficients (μ's) of fresh canine prostate tissue, ex vivo, from the diffuse reflectance profile of near-IR light as a function of source-detector distance. The effective attenuation coefficient (μeff) and optical penetration depth (OPD) were then calculated for near-IR wavelengths of 1064, 1307, and 1555 nm. A total of ten canine samples were used for this study. At wavelengths of 1064, 1307, and 1555 nm, the mean absorption coefficients measured 0.08 ± 0.03, 0.12 ± 0.04, and 0.23 ± 0.09 cm-1, respectively. The mean reduced scattering coefficients measured 16.60 ± 0.95, 14.30 ± 1.14, and 10.98 ± 2.35 cm-1. The effective attenuation coefficients were calculated to be 2.00, 2.28, and 2.78 cm-1, yielding OPD's of 0.5, 0.44, and 0.36 cm at 1064, 1307, and 1555 nm. OCT imaging studies of the prostate may benefit from replacement of commonly used 1310 nm broadband light sources with 1064 nm sources.
Infrared investigation of the silicon oxide phase in [perfluoro-carboxylate/sulfonate (bilayer)]/[silicon oxide] nanocomposite membranes

[Perfluoro-organic]/[silicon oxide] hybrids were formed by conducting sol-gel reactions of tetraethylorthosilicate within a perfluoro(carboxylate/sulfonate) bilayer membrane in the Co +2 form. FTIR and 29 Si solid-state NMR spectroscopies were used to probe general aspects of molecular structure within the silicon oxide phase as a function of its relative content. The internal gel structure is considerably unconnected in terms of the population of Si-O-Si groups in cyclic vs. linear substructures and degree of Si atom coordination about bonded SiO 4 units. In situ (HO) x SiO 2[1-1/4x] intrastructure become increasingly less connected and more strained with regard to bonding geometry with increasing percent silicon oxide. Structural differences are seen between the silicon oxide component incorporated in carboxylate and sulfonate layers. These inorganically modified perfluorinated ionomers have potential as fast-proton conducting membranes for fuel cells and as permselective membranes in liquid pervaporation cells.
Electrophoretic separation of proteins on emulsions of adsorbents.

Abstract A method for the electrophoretic separation of proteins on adsorbent emulsions in low concentration agar gel is presented. The best results were obtained with Hyflo-super Cel as the solid phase in concentrations of 1 to 5%. The method can be used for analytical or preparative purposes. Examples of resolution of protein mixtures are described.
Sorensen on Unknowable Obligations

Vagueness in the phrase ‘can know’ aside, the principle of (Access) An act is obligatory only if its agent can know that it is obligatory is an important principle, worthy of serious scrutiny. Its truth or falsity bears on the question of whether moral rightness, obligatoriness, etc., are a matter of factors ‘internal’ to an agent (such as motives and beliefs), or whether ‘external’ factors (such as consequences) are relevant to determining the moral normative status of acts. Moreover, Access enjoys considerable intuitive support. If I destroy Greensboro in Professor Sorensen's example by pushing the wrong button, I seem to have a good excuse to give to anyone who would accuse me of wrongdoing: ‘I had no way of knowing that this action would be wrong!’ But if I have a good excuse, then pushing the button does not seem wrong; and if that action is not wrong, then I had no obligation to refrain from pushing that button.
Inhibition of thermolysin and human α-thrombin by cobalt(III) Schiff base complexes

Cobalt(III) Schiff base complexes have been shown to inhibit the replication of the ocular herpes virus. It is well known that these complexes have a high affinity for nitrogenous donors such as histidine residues, and it is possible that they bind to (and inhibit) an enzyme that is crucial to viral replication. In model studies, we have found that [Co(acacen)(NH_3)_2]+ is an effective irreversible inhibitor of thermolysin at millimolar concentrations; it also inhibits human α-thrombin. Axial ligand exchange with an active-site histidine is the proposed mechanism of inhibition. The activity of thermolysin and thrombin can be protected by binding a reversible inhibitor to the active site before addition of the cobalt(III) complex.
Primary ovarian cancer cultures are resistant to fas-mediated apoptosis

Abstract Objectives. Fas, a primary mediator of cellular apoptosis, is expressed by the normal ovarian epithelium. We analyzed the levels of Fas and soluble Fas (sFas) expression in ovarian cancer tissue and determined the susceptibility of primary ovarian cancer cell (CSOC) cultures to Fas-mediated apoptosis. Methods. Fas mRNA levels were detected by RT-PCR, and Fas protein levels were determined by immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis. Secreted sFas levels were measured by ELISA. Localization of Fas to the cell surface was demonstrated by flow cytometry. The effect of Fas on cell proliferation was measured by MTT assay. Results. Intense Fas staining was detected on the cell surface and in the cytoplasm of ovarian carcinoma specimens. We also found that mean levels of sFas, which can function as a Fas agonist, were significantly increased in 18 sera from cancer patients (0.98 ng/ml) compared to those of 8 healthy individuals (0.61 ng/ml, P = 0.004). Fas mRNA and protein were expressed in all primary ovarian cancer cell cultures. Despite abundant Fas expression, CSOC cultures were significantly less sensitive to Fas-mediated apoptosis (11.3%) than primary cultures of normal ovarian epithelial cells (HOSE) (50.0%) ( P = 0.00001). The sFas level in CSOC-conditioned medium was minimal (0.07 ng/ml) and not significantly different from that of HOSE-conditioned medium (0.09 ng/ml). The small amount of sFas secreted by CSOC does not likely account for the observed resistance to Fas-mediated apoptosis. Conclusion. Decreased sensitivity to Fas-mediated apoptosis could contribute to ovarian tumorigenesis through resistance to cytotoxic T lymphocyte-mediated cytotoxicity and may play a role in ovarian tumorigenesis.
A time encoding method for single‐shot imaging

A new 2D single-shot imaging technique is introduced that uses only one dimension of Fourier encoding. The second dimension is encoded in time, rather than using phase encoding. The data is acquired in the form of a closely spaced echo train with each echo produced from a different physical line in the object. A 1D Fourier transform is applied to each echo for image reconstruction. Because only the desired lines are excited, there can be no aliasing in the time encoding direction even when the object is much larger than the field of view. This technique is also very insensitive to motion, as motion-related artifacts do not propagate in the time encoding direction.
Effects of a xenogeneic lymphokine preparation on growth of B16 melanoma in C57Bl/6 mice.

Abstract Studies of the B16 melanoma in C57Bl/6 mice suggested that prolonged survival and reduced tumor incidence could be achieved by local administration of a lymphokine preparation derived from antigen-stimulated lymph node cell cultures obtained from sensitized guinea pigs. The possibility that the protection noted with this xenogeneic lymphokine preparation was due to stimulation of macrophage activity was examined by means of in vitro cultures of mouse peritoneal exudate cells (PEC) and B16 cells. PEC treated with lymphokine-containing fluids markedly inhibited growth of B16 cells compared with controls. This effect was abolished by treatment of PEC with carrageenan, a macrophage-toxic sulfated polysaccharide. In vivo carrageenan administration shortened survival and increased tumor incidence of B16-challenged mice compared with controls. Thus, agents which can be shown to influence macrophage functions appear to alter resistance of growth of this tumor.
Endotoxin and the hyperdynamic circulation of portal vein-ligated rats

Humoral factors may be responsible for the hyperdynamic circulation seen in portal hypertension. Endotoxin, a peripheral arteriolar vasodilator, has been proposed to mediate this hemodynamic picture. We examined the pathogenic role of endotoxin in portal vein-ligated rats, a prehepatic portal hypertensive model with a well-developed hyperdynamic circulation. To this end, we (a) administered oral neomycin, a poorly absorbable antibiotic, at doses of 50 and 100 mg/day for 7 days and found no evident splanchnic hemodynamic effects of a 2-log-fold reduction of cecal aerobic bacterial flora as assessed by the radioactive microsphere technique in portal vein-ligated rats studied in the postanesthesia awake state; (b) assayed endotoxin in arterial samples using a quantitative limulus assay and found no evidence of endotoxinemia in PVL rats; (c) induced a state of endotoxin tolerance by repeated daily intraperitoneal injections of low-dose endotoxin and found no amelioration of the hyperdynamic state in portal vein-ligated rats. Our results do not support the hypothesis that endotoxin plays a major pathogenic role in the hyperdynamic circulation of this experimental model.
A self correcting clock recovery curcuit

Conventional approaches to the problem of extracting clock from NRZ data do not automatically hold the clock in the center of the data eye. Other means must be used to keep the clock properly centered in the eye at the decision flip-flop. A new approach to the problem is described. The circuit is both simple and self correcting.
Units during habituation, discrimination learning, and extinction.

Abstract Unit responses were recorded with 62.5 μ fine wires implanted chronically in rats. In each animal simultaneous recordings were made from four probes: in hippocampus, midbrain, hypothalamus and preoptic area. Hippocampal units did not respond in a special fashion to novel stimuli and what responses there were did not change during habituation. After this, response increments appeared rapidly in hippocampus during conditioning, and at the same time a difference developed between the hippocampal firing rates induced by the CS+ and CS− control stimulus. In extinction, the responses in hippocampus changed again to a level between the habituation level and the conditioning level. In other words, complete extinction of the increments in firing rates brought on by conditioning 0did not occur. Midbrain units responded to novel stimuli initially, and then showed clear and continuous habituation during the preliminary series of trials. They showed increments in rate of discharge during conditioning; and a difference between patterns of firing induced by CS+ and CS− developed gradually as compared to its rapid appearance in the hippocampus. The midbrain pattern of neuron responses which appeared during conditioning disappeared during extinction. Hypothalamic units showed patterns of neuron responses somewhat similar to those of midbrain units but less pronounced. Preoptic units showed relatively small responses to novel stimuli but these disappeared rapidly during habituation and there were no further responses in the series of conditioning or extinction trials.
The Inverse Function Approach to Kinematic Control of Redundant Manipulators

An inverse kinematic function for a redundant manipulator is a generalization of the most common form of sensor-driven control for nonredundant manipulators. However, the nonuniqueness of the functions in the redundant case can be used to reduce joint speeds, avoid obstacles, and improve the usable workspace. This paper reviews our work of the last several years on the inverse function approach and discusses the practical considerations that recommend its use. Methods of representing the inverse functions are discussed and compared to the related extended Jacobian technique. Recent results on workspace limits are summarized, and the paper concludes with an indication of possible avenues for future research in the area.
Possible mechanism for glass-like thermal conductivities in crystals with off-center atoms

In the filled $\mathrm{Ga}∕\mathrm{Ge}$ clathrate, $\mathrm{Eu}$ and $\mathrm{Sr}$ are off center in site 2 but $\mathrm{Ba}$ is on center. All three filler atoms $(\mathrm{Ba},\mathrm{Eu},\mathrm{Sr})$ have low-temperature Einstein modes; yet only for the $\mathrm{Eu}$ and $\mathrm{Sr}$ systems is there a large dip in the thermal conductivity, attributed to the Einstein modes. No dip is observed for $\mathrm{Ba}$. Here we argue that it is the off-center displacement that is crucial for understanding this unexplained difference in behavior. It enhances the coupling between the ``rattler'' motion and the lattice phonons for the $\mathrm{Eu}$ and $\mathrm{Sr}$ systems, and turns on/off another scattering mechanism (for $1\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{K}lTl20\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{K}$) produced by the presence/absence of off-center sites. The random occupation of different off-center sites produces a high density of symmetry-breaking defects which scatter phonons. It may also be important for improving our understanding of other glassy systems.
Violent Nations, and Others

A nine-fold typology of conceptions of “violence” is suggested, ranging from least to most inclusive and from the individual to the transnational level. Eight of the nine different facets of violen...
Test-Retest Reliability of Colored Filter Testing

This article evaluates the reliability of colored filter testing procedures. Properly chosen colored filters, with the tint being specific to each patient, are said to be effective in the treatment of dyslexia. We investigated the test-retest reliability of colored filter testing in relationship to two specific symptom levels using a forced-choice test procedure. This research was to evaluate test-retest reliability, not the validity of colored filter testing. Forty-one participants (28 boys and 13 girls) ranging in age from 15 to 17 years served as participants. Two tests, separated by 2 weeks, were conducted under standard conditions. Results indicated poor test-retest reliability.
Aspects of a theory of language acquisition

This paper presents a hypothesis-testing theory of syntax acquisition. The first section presents our model. We claim that: (1) children learn a transformational grammar, including a set of phrase structure and transformational rules; (2) linguistic universals and Occam's razor constrain the initial hypothesis space available to the device; (3) hypotheses tested by the device consist of candidate phrase structure and transformational rules; (4) linguistic evidence confirms or disconfirms hypotheses. Specific examples of incorrect phrase structure and transformational hypotheses are presented. The second section briefly surveys other approaches to language acquisition – both syntactic and non-syntactic – and compares them to our model. In the third section, we address several methodological issues: (1) the relevance of linguistic theory to the model; (2) how the model is tested; (3) the domain of the theory.
Evidence and Normativity: Reply to Leite

According to one view about the rationality of belief, such rationality is ultimately nothing other than the rationality that one exhibits in taking the means to one’s ends. On this view, epistemic rationality is really a species or special case of instrumental rationality. In particular, epistemic rationality is instrumental rationality in the service of one’s distinctively cognitive or epistemic goals (perhaps: one’s goal of holding true rather than false beliefs). In my (2003), I dubbed this view the instrumentalist conception of epistemic rationality. The instrumentalist conception is in many respects an attractive view. It possesses an undeniable intuitive plausibility; indeed, it can be presented in such a way as to seem almost trivially true. It seems to offer an attractive way of integrating the theory of rational belief with a more general account of rationality; it thus seems poised to deliver the kind of illumination that is characteristic of successful reductions. Moreover, there are various other, more specific philosophical motivations that one might have for finding the instrumentalist conception attractive. For these reasons, the instrumentalist
Abiotic stress alters transcript profiles and activity of glutathione S-transferase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase in Euphorbia esula

Glutathione S-transferase (GST), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and glutathione reductase (GR) are enzymes that utilize glutathione to play an important role in plant defense mechanisms. In leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula L.), transcript and activity profiles for these enzymes are differentially influenced in tissue exposed to xenobiotic (diclofop-methyl) and environmental stress (cold and drought). Five different EeGST cDNA (including phi, tau, theta, and zeta class GSTs), one EeGPX cDNA, and one EeGR cDNA showed differential expression patterns in leafy spurge plants exposed to diclofop-methyl-, cold- and drought-stress. Tissue treated with diclofop-methyl also had increased GST, GPX and GR activities that were preceded or paralleled by increased gene expression. Transcript profiles resulting from drought-stressed plants were similar to transcript profiles from diclofop-methyl-treated plants but not cold-stressed plants. GPX activity in leafy spurge protein extracts was not bound to either S-hexylglutathione- or glutathione-agarose columns but instead co-migrated with fractions of GST activity that also were not bound by affinity chromatography. Fractions of GST proteins that were bound to S-hexylglutathione revealed that increased GST activity in diclofop-methyl-treated tissue could be identified as phi- and tau-type GSTs.
Gaussian Behavior in Generalized Zeckendorf Decompositions

A beautiful theorem of Zeckendorf states that every integer can be written uniquely as a sum of nonconsecutive Fibonacci numbers \(\{F_{n}\}_{n=1}^{\infty }\); Lekkerkerker proved that the average number of summands for integers in [F n , F n+1) is \(n/(\varphi ^{2} + 1)\), with φ the golden mean. Interestingly, the higher moments seem to have been ignored. We discuss the proof that the distribution of the number of summands converges to a Gaussian as n → ∞, and comment on generalizations to related decompositions. For example, every integer can be written uniquely as a sum of the ± F n ’s, such that every two terms of the same (opposite) sign differ in index by at least 4 (3). The distribution of the numbers of positive and negative summands converges to a bivariate normal with computable, negative correlation, namely \(-(21 - 2\varphi )/(29 + 2\varphi ) \approx -0.551058\).
Modeling Population Distributions of Subjective Ratings

Most human figure models used in ergonomic analyses present postural comfort ratings based on joint angles, and present a single comfort score for the whole body or on a joint-by-joint basis. The source data for these ratings is generally derived from laboratory studies that link posture to ratings. Lacking in many of these models is a thorough treatment of the distribution of ratings for the population of users. Information about ratings distributions is necessary to make cost-effective tradeoffs when design changes affect subjective responses. This paper presents experimental and analytic methods used to develop distribution models for incorporating subjective rating data in ergonomic assessments.
Diel feeding behavior of meiofauna and their relationships with microalgal resources

14 C-labeled algae) and benthic microalgal abundance and composition (HPLC analysis of photopigments) were measured every 6 h over a 48-h period. Midday feeding peaks were detected in Coullana sp. juveniles and adult females (but not males), Microarthridion littorale, Pseudostenhelia wellsi , and ostracods and were coincident with peaks in microalgal biomass. This pattern of midday feeding peaks by meiofauna differs from classical models of zooplankton feeding, which typically peak at night. Midday feeding peaks were apparently influenced by functional responses to food availability (ostracods and Coullana sp. females and juveniles), entrained diel rhythms (M. littorale), influence of light—positive ( M. littorale) or negative (Coullana sp.), and possibly by vertical migration of diatoms within sediment. The negative influence of light on grazing by Coullana sp. may have implications for its feeding activity during midday low tides. Diatoms dominated the benthic microalgae, but cyanobacteria and chlorophytes contributed significantly to the planktonic community. Coullana sp. gut pigments indicate that at least part of its diet is planktonic, but it selectively avoids planktonic cyanobacteria. Diel variation of microalgal biomass appears to be influenced by meiofaunal grazing, which implies that meiofauna represent an important link between microalgal primary production and higher trophic levels.
Dissociative symptomatology and aggressive behavior

The present study examined the relationship between dissociative symptomatology and a range of aggressive behavior in a general psychiatric outpatient population. Of the total sample (n = 122), 29% scored above 25 on the Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES). Patients with high DES scores (>25) were significantly more likely than patients with lower DES scores (<25) to report a history of childhood sexual abuse, to have attempted suicide, and to report more assaultive behavior, irritability, and negativism. There were no differences between the patients with high versus low DES scores on homicidal behavior. To better manage and treat outpatients with dissociative symptomatology, it is important to clarify the association between outwardly aggressive behavior and dissociative experiences.
Design and Management of Teaching Programs with Survival in Mind

Agricultural economics teaching programs are becoming stressed. They vary considerably because of different institutional settings and are conducted under changing college, university, and department trends and paradigm shifts. To ensure success, strategic marketing processes need to be used in analyzing programs: identifying potential students (clientele or customers), ascertaining what to offer (majors, minors, service courses, enrichment options, and distance education), finalizing the strategic plan, and executing the plan (with students, administration, industry, and disciplinary peers). Conclusions and recommendations for enhancing teaching quantity and quality are presented for the strategic marketing processes. Finally, some implications and conclusions for graduate education are discussed.
L-AP4 inhibits calcium currents and synaptic transmission via a G- protein-coupled glutamate receptor

The AP4 (2-amino-4-phosphonobutyrate) receptor is a presynaptic glutamate receptor that inhibits transmitter release via an unknown mechanism. We examined the action of L-AP4 on voltage-dependent calcium currents and excitatory synaptic transmission on cultured olfactory bulb neurons using whole-cell voltage-clamp methods. In neurons dialyzed with GTP, L-AP4 inhibited high-threshold calcium currents evoked in barium solutions. The inhibition was irreversible in the presence of GTP-gamma-S and blocked by removing intracellular Mg2+ or by preincubation with pertussis toxin (PTX), consistent with the involvement of a PTX-sensitive G-protein. Dialysis with staurosporine or buffering of intracellular calcium to pCa less than 8 did not block the action of L-AP4, suggesting that protein phosphorylation or release of intracellular calcium stores was not involved in calcium current inhibition under these experimental conditions. PTX also blocked the L-AP4-induced inhibition of monosynaptic EPSPs evoked by intracellular stimulation of cultured mitral cells. These results suggest that the presynaptic AP4 receptor is a G-protein-coupled glutamate receptor, and that inhibition of calcium influx by a membrane-delimited action of a G-protein may account for L-AP4-induced presynaptic inhibition.
Wiring Optimization in the Brain

The complexity of cortical circuits may be characterized by the number of synapses per neuron. We study the dependence of complexity on the fraction of the cortical volume that is made up of "wire" (that is, of axons and dendrites), and find that complexity is maximized when wire takes up about 60% of the cortical volume. This prediction is in good agreement with experimental observations. A consequence of our arguments is that any rearrangement of neurons that takes more wire would sacrifice computational power.
Bronchial adenoma resection with relief of hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction.

Experimental airway obstruction is known to cause reflex pulmonary artery constriction, but clinical documentation of reversible bronchial obstruction and vasoconstriction is rare. A soft bronchial adenoma obstructed the left main bronchus, and scans showed minimal ventilation and perfusion on the left. Gas aspirated from beyond the tumor was hypoxic. The adenoma was removed and the lung left intact by means of a skin graft in the bronchial wall. Four months later, pulmonary function was normal, and both ventilation and perfusion of the left lung were normal. Reflex pulmonary vasoconstriction resulting from alveolar hypoxia minimizes systemic hypoxemia and also minimizes alveolar tissue hypoxia in the lung itself. The reflex is seen most frequently in perfusion scans in patients with chronic airways disease. This case is important in that it documents reversal of vasoconstriction after ventilation was restored.
Sarcoplasmic reticulum gene expression in pressure overload-induced cardiac hypertrophy in rabbit

Pressure overload (PO)-induced cardiac hypertrophy in rabbits has been utilized extensively to study alterations in systolic and diastolic functions of the heart. In earlier studies we showed that ...
Graphical models in continuous domains for multiagent reinforcement learning

In this paper we test two coordination methods -- difference rewards and coordination graphs -- in a continuous, multiagent rover domain using reinforcement learning, and discuss the situations in which each of these methods perform better alone or together, and why. We also contribute a novel method of applying coordination graphs in a continuous domain by taking advantage of the wire-fitting approach used to handle continuous state and action spaces.
New Phases and Dissociation-Recombination of Hydrogen Deuteride to 3.4 Mbar

We present infrared absorption studies of solid hydrogen deuteride to pressures as high as 340 GPa (100 GPa=1 Mbar) in a diamond anvil cell and temperatures in the range 5-295 K. Above 198 GPa the HD sample transforms to a mixture of HD, H_{2}, and D_{2}, interpreted as a process of dissociation and recombination. Three new phase lines are observed, two of which differ remarkably from those of the high-pressure homonuclear species, but none are metallic. The time-dependent spectral changes are analyzed to determine the molecular concentrations as a function of time; the nucleon exchange achieves steady state concentrations in ∼20 h at ∼200 GPa.
Hot stuff – do people living in hot climates like their food spicy hot or not?

Letter on: Romanovsky AA. Protecting western redcedar from deer browsing—with a passing reference to TRP channels. Temperature 2015; 2:142-9; http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/23328940.2015.1047078Dear Edi...
Relation of Structure of Diphenylmethane Derivatives to Toxicity to Tribolium confusum Duv.

The toxicities to the confused flour beetle. Tribolium onfusum Duv., of 44 compounds related to diphenylmethane were compared. Two toxic mechanisms are suggested by time-mortality relationships as compared with dosage-mortality relationships. A DDT-type toxic mechanism appears to hold for the aliphatic substituted compound, while a more rapid diphenylmethane-type toxic mechanism is indicated for those with less aliphatic substitution. Replacement of benzene ling systems by other aromatic systems did not appreciably alter toxicity relationships.
Multi-Scale Modeling of Inhomogeneous Ionospheric Turbulence: Scintillation Producing Irregularities and Stochastic Effects

Non-equilibrium stochastic effects are investigated for 3D coupled systems. The effects of electromagnetic waves (EM) propagating through the ionosphere in the presence of scintillation producing irregularities/layers depend on frequency ranges. We analyze scattering and EM wave trapping in the layers/ducts formed by the ionospheric irregularities. Article not available.
Inhibition of bacterial growth by auxins.

We have observed that a number of synthetic unsaturated ring-containing acids endowed with auxin (plant hormone) activity can exert a bacteriostatic effect on the growth of certain bacterial species. The following substances were selected as representatives of different chemical types of auxins: indole-3-acetic acid, β-(indole-3)-propionic acid, -(indole-3)-n-butyrie acid, α-naphthalene-acetic acid, β-naphthoxyacetic acid, 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, 2,3,5-triiodoben-zoic acid.1The order of activity of these different substances on a few bacterial species is illustrated in Table I in which are given the concentrations of auxins required to cause a 50% inhibition of growth in a medium containing by weight 0.1% enzymatic hydrolysate of casein and 0.02% yeast extract. It should be emphasized that the inhibitory concentrations recorded in Table I have only a relative value since, as will be indicated later, tryptophane and peptone can antagonize the bacteriostatic action of auxins. It is also worth record...