cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fast Implementation Of A Laplacian Of Gaussian Edge Detector

The zero-crossing test of the second directional derivative is regarded by many image processing researchers as the optimal method of edge detection. Fast implementation of a zero-crossing detector for an image that has been operated upon by a Laplacian of Gaussian (LOG) convolution is difficult; execution speed is, in fact, the primary disadvantage of edge detection by LOG. Another drawback to this method is the difficulty in programming the algorithm itself. Use of efficient library functions to perform the required LOG convolutions and tradeoffs between multiple cascaded filters and a single filter with a spatially large impulse response will be examined. Finally, a convolution and look-up table-based implementation of a zero-crossing detector will be explained.
Techniques for birth-particle placement in the probability hypothesis density particle filter applied to passive radar

An initial investigation found Ronald Mahler's probability hypothesis density (PHD) filter to be a promising tool for the passive coherent location (PCL) of targets observed via multiple bistatic radar measurements. Two significant improvements to the particle-filter implementation of the PHD-based multitarget, multisensor tracker for PCL are introduced. The first is a simple, yet novel, peak-extraction technique that exploits the integral property of the PHD and provides a faster and more accurate method over currently used techniques to extract the target states from the PHD. The second is an improved method of placing birth particles, whereby a precomputed range-variance-based grid and a least-squares iterative technique is used to place birth particles at the bistatic range and Doppler observation intersections. This leads to greater reliability in detecting targets and a significant reduction in the number of particles required for tracking.
Lipolytic response of "diabetic" mice (db/db) to isoproterenol and propranolol in vivo.

The genetically diabetic and obesedb/db mice responded lipolytically to isoproterenol and propranolol similarly to normal mice in vivo. However, considering the large amount of triglyceride in adb/db mouse, we conclude that the in vivo response ofdb/db adipose tissue is deficient in magnitude.
Some results on intersecting families of subsets

Abstract For an n -tuple t = ( t 1 , t 2 ,…, t n ) of integers satisfying 1⩽t 1 ⩽t 2 ···⩽t n , T( t )=T denotes the ranked partially ordered set consisting of n- tuples a = (a 1 ,a 2 ,…,a n ) of integers satisfying t n − t i ⩽ a i ⩽ t n , i = 1,2,…, n , partially ordered by defining a to precede c if a i = c i or c i = t n for i = 1,2,…, n . The rank r( a ) of a is |{ i | a i = t n }|. For 0⩽ l ⩽ n , the set consisting of all elements of rank l is called the l th rank and is denoted T l . Let b , l and m denote positive integers satisfying b ⩽ l ⩽ n and m ⩽| T l |. For a subset A of T l , Δ b A denotes the elements of T l - b which precede at least one element of A . An algorithm is given for calculating min | Δ b A |, where the minimum is taken over all m -element subsets A of T l . If t 1 = t 2 = ··· = t n = 1, it reduces to the Kruskal-Katona algorithm.
Forward and backward memory span should not be combined for clinical analysis

The practice of combining forward and backward memory span, as represented so prominently on the various Wechsler Scales, to arrive at a composite score for clinical interpretation is examined historically and actuarially using a large (N = 1,342) nationally stratified random sample of children from ages 5 years through 19 years. Past literature does not support the additive nature of forward and backward memory span as elements of a common process. Factor analyses of forward and backward recall using both digits and letters indicate that the two memory processes are distinct as well and should not be combined for clinical interpretation.
Genetic Variation in the Peroxisome Proliferator–Activated Receptor-γ2 Gene (Pro12Ala) Affects Metabolic Responses to Weight Loss and Subsequent Weight Regain

This study determined the effects of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-gamma2 Pro12Ala variant on body composition and metabolism and the magnitude of weight regain in 70 postmenopausal women (BMI 25-40 kg/m(2)) who completed 6 months of a hypocaloric diet. At baseline, BMI, percent body fat, intra-abdominal and subcutaneous abdominal fat areas, resting metabolic rate, substrate oxidation, and postprandial glucose and insulin responses were not different between genotypes (Pro/Pro = 56, Pro/Ala and Ala/Ala = 14). The intervention similarly decreased body weight by 8 +/- 1% in women homozygous for the Pro allele and by 7 +/- 1% in women with the Ala allele (P < 0.0001). Fat oxidation did not change in Pro/Pro women but decreased 19 +/- 9% in women with the Ala allele (P < 0.05). Changes in glucose area were not different between groups; however, women with the Ala allele decreased their insulin area more than women homozygous for the Pro allele (P < 0.05). Weight regain during follow-up was greater in women with the Ala allele than women homozygous for the Pro allele (5.4 +/- 0.9 vs. 2.8 +/- 0.4 kg, P < 0.01). PPAR-gamma2 genotype was the best predictor of weight regain (r = 0.50, P < 0.01), followed by the change in fat oxidation (partial r = 0.35, P < 0.05; cumulative r = 0.58). Thus, the Pro12Ala variant of the PPAR-gamma2 gene may influence susceptibility for obesity.
Progesterone receptor membrane component-1 (PGRMC1) and PGRMC-2 interact to suppress entry into the cell cycle in spontaneously immortalized rat granulosa cells

Progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1) and PGRMC2 are expressed in rat granulosa cells and spontaneously immortalized granulosa cells (SIGCs) but their biological roles are not well defined. The present studies demonstrate that depleting either Pgrmc1 or Pgrmc2 in SIGCs increases entry into the cell cycle but does not increase cell proliferation. Rather, PGRMC1 and/or PGRMC2-deplete cells accumulate in metaphase and undergo apoptosis. Because both PGRMC1 and PGRMC2 localize to the mitotic spindle, their absence likely accounts for cells arresting in metaphase. Moreover, pull-down assays, colocalization studies and in situ proximity ligation assays (PLA) indicate that PGRMC1 binds PGRMC2. Disrupting the PGRMC1:PGRMC2 complex through the use of siRNA or the cytoplasmic delivery of a PGRMC2 antibody increases entry into the cell cycle. Conversely, overexpressing either PGRMC1-GFP or GFP-PGRMC2 fusion protein inhibits entry into the cell cycle. Subsequent studies reveal that depleting PGRMC1 and/or PGRMC2 reduces the percentage of cells in G0 and increases the percentage of cells in G1. These observations indicate that in addition to their role at metaphase, PGRMC1 and PGRMC2 are involved in regulating entry into the G1 stage of the cell cycle. Interestingly, both PGRMC1 and PGRMC2 bind GTPase-activating protein-binding protein 2 (G3BP2) as demonstrated by pull-down assays, colocalization assays, and PLAs. G3bp2 siRNA treatment also promotes entry into the G1 stage. This implies that dynamic changes in the interaction among PGRMC1, PGRMC2, and G3BP2 play an important protein regulating the rate at which SIGCs enter into the cell cycle.
Carbon dioxide laser surgery of the lids and orbit

The carbon dioxide laser is a surgical tool which has properties of cutting, vaporization, hemostasis and fine control. It can be used as a high precision hemostatic scalpel which leaves surrounding tissue undamaged by its energy. It is also capable of vaporization of surface lesions and welding of tissues. Use of the carbon dioxide laser is described for excision of certain orbital and eyelid tumors. It is particularly useful for anterior orbital tumors with a predilection for bleeding. Advantages and precautions in the use of the CO2 laser are discussed.
The Effect of an Alcohol Resistant Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AR-AFFF) on the Evaporation, Boiling, and Collision Dynamics of a Water Droplet on a Heated Solid Surface

An experimental study is presented for droplets containing an alcohol-resistant aqueous film forming foam (AR-AFFF) impacting and boiling on a heated stainless steel surface. Experiments with solutions of 3% (volume fraction) AR-AFFF/distilled water were compared to ones with distilled water and 3% AR-AFFF/simulated seawater. The latter experiments were motivated by the practice of mixing AR-AFFF with seawater in many naval applications. The impact process was recorded using a high-speed digital camera at 1000 frames per second. For each fluid, the droplet impact Weber number was fixed, and the droplet evaporation lifetime was measured as a function of temperature. Collision dynamics were investigated for each fluid, with the temperature of the stainless steel surface varied from film evaporation to film boiling. It was observed that the addition of 3% AR-AFFF to water reduced the temperature for departure from nucleate boiling and the Leidenfrost temperature dramatically compared to pure water. Droplets were observed to breakup violently for solutions of AR-AFFF/simulated seawater at film boiling. The results demonstrate that the collision dynamics depend on what type of water is mixed with AR-AFFF.
A global approach to crew-pairing optimization

The problem addressed in this paper is crew-pairing optimization in airline flight planning: finding tours of duty (pairings) that are legal and cover every flight leg at the least cost. The legal rules and cost of a pairing are determined by complex Federal Aviation Agency and contractual requirements. In addition, the problem is made more difficult by the hub-and-spoke system used by airlines that multiplies the possible ways a pairing can link flight legs. The state-of-the-art crew-pairing TRIP system of American Airlines uses subproblem optimization and, as is true for other crew-scheduling systems, may not be able to improve a solution even though a better one exists. We report on the methodology developed during a joint study by IBM and American Airlines Decision Technologies to use the IBM Optimization Subroutine Library in conjunction with TRIP to improve on crew-pairing solutions by taking a global approach. The resulting improvements have been a reduction of 5 to 11 percent in excess crew cost. Estimated total savings are five million dollars per year.
Effect of Unequal Variances in Proficiency Distributions on Type-I Error of the Mantel-Haenszel Chi-square Test for Differential Item Functioning

Empirical studies demonstrated Type-I error (TIE) inflation (especially for highly discriminating easy items) of the Mantel-Haenszel chi-square test for differential item functioning (DIF), when data conformed to item response theory (IRT) models more complex than Rasch, and when IRT proficiency distributions differed only in means. However, no published study manipulated proficiency variance ratio (VR). Data were generated with the three-parameter logistic (3PL) IRT model. Proficiency VRs were 1, 2, 3, and 4. The present study suggests inflation may be greater, and may affect all highly discriminating items (low, moderate, and high difficulty), when IRT proficiency distributions of reference and focal groups differ also in variances. Inflation was greatest on the 21-item test (vs. 41) and 2,000 total sample size (vs. 1,000). Previous studies had not systematically examined sample size ratio. Sample size ratio of 1:1 produced greater TIE inflation than 3:1, but primarily for total sample size of 2,000.
Fuzzy clustering based fault diagnosis for aircraft engine health management

Fault diagnosis plays a crucial role in aircraft health management for modern military and commercial aircrafts. Accurate detection and diagnosis of impending aircraft faults can lay the foundation to reduce maintenance turnaround times, operational costs and improve flight safety. Modern aircrafts are capable of generating massive amount of in-flight data and maintenance reports, which makes the task of developing a robust fault diagnosis scheme greatly challenging. Using flight parameters such as Exhaust Gas Temperature (EGT), Fuel Flow (FF), Engine Fan Speeds (N1 and N2), Total Air Temperature (TAT) decisions can be made on current and future health of aircraft engines. In this paper such flight parameters are used as the basis to develop a diagnostic scheme which can identify a fault and relate this information with the ground reports and maintenance data to allow the maintainer decide necessary maintenance procedures. The baseline values for the in-flight parameters are used as a reference for this evaluation. Any deviation from the baseline values can be considered as a system fault and has to be addressed by the maintenance crew. The data used for this analysis is obtained from flight data recorders. The final decision on a fault being accurately detected is taken by the ground maintenance crew or engineers. Once the fault has been accurately detected and identified Fault Isolation Manuals (FIM) are used to identify necessary maintenance actions required to repair the system or sub-system under fault. A robust fault diagnosis scheme combined with the maintenance actions can give the maintainer enhanced foresight in aircraft system health thus reducing unnecessary maintenance actions.
Midultraviolet (UV-B) sensitivity of Acartia clausii Giesbrecht (Copepoda)1

The sensitivity of all life stages of laboratory-cultured Acartiu clausii to various fluences of UV-B radiation was evaluated. Organisms were irradiated on a rotating turntable beneath FS40 sunlamps and “deluxe white” fluorescent lamps. Copepods were randomly assigned to treatments utilizing a randomized complete block design. Least-squares regression analysis was performed between surviving fraction and fluence for all treatments administered to each age group and also between the offspring:survivor ratio and fluence for treatments administered to the oldest age group, which was composed of equal numbers of males and females. Results indicated an inverse relationship between surviving fraction and UV-B exposure. Reproductive capability of the surviving organisms was also negatively affected.
Estimating impervious surfaces from medium spatial resolution imagery: a comparison between fuzzy classification and LSMA

Impervious surfaces are important environmental indicators and are related to many environmental issues, such as water quality, stream health and the urban heat island effect. Therefore, detailed impervious surface information is crucial for urban planning and environment management. To extract impervious surfaces from remote sensing imagery, many algorithms and techniques have been developed. However, there are still debates over the strengths and limitations of linear versus nonlinear algorithms in handling mixed pixels in the urban landscapes. In the meantime, although many previous studies have compared various techniques, few comparisons were made between linear and nonlinear techniques. The objective of this study is to compare the performance between nonlinear and linear methods for impervious surface extraction from medium spatial resolution imagery. A linear spectral mixture analysis LSMA and a fuzzy classifier were applied to three Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer ASTER images acquired on 5 April 2004, 16 June 2001 and 3 October 2000, which covered Marion County, Indiana, United States. An aerial photo of Marion County with a spatial resolution of 0.14 m was used for validation of estimation results. Six impervious surface maps were yielded, and an accuracy assessment was performed. The root mean square error RMSE, the mean average error MAE, and the coefficient of determination R2 were calculated to indicate the accuracy of impervious surface maps. The results show that the fuzzy classification outperformed LSMA in impervious surface estimation in all seasons. For the June image, LSMA yielded a result with an RMSE of 13.2%, while the fuzzy classifier yielded an RMSE of 12.4%. For the April image, LSMA yielded an accuracy of 21.1% and the fuzzy classifier yielded 17.0%. For the October image, LSMA yielded a result with an RMSE of 19.8%, but the fuzzy classifier yielded an RMSE of 17.5%. Moreover, a subset image of the commercial, high-density and low-density residential areas was selected in order to compare the effectiveness of the developed algorithms for estimating impervious surfaces of different land use types. The result shows that the fuzzy classification was more effective than LSMA in both high-density and low-density residential areas. These areas prevailed with mixed pixels in the medium resolution imagery, such as ASTER. The results from the tested commercial area had a very high RMSE value due to the prevalence of shade in the area. It is suggested that the fuzzy classifier based on the nonlinear assumption can handle mixed pixels more effectively than LSMA.
Return to Beringia: parasites reveal cryptic biogeographic history of North American pikas.

Traditional concepts of the Bering Land Bridge as a zone of predominantly eastward expansion from Eurasia and a staging area for subsequent colonization of lower latitudes in North America led to early inferences regarding biogeographic histories of North American faunas, many of which remain untested. Here we apply a host–parasite comparative phylogeographical (HPCP) approach to evaluate one such history, by testing competing biogeographic hypotheses for five lineages of host-specific parasites shared by the collared pika (Ochotona collaris) and American pika (Ochotona princeps) of North America. We determine whether the southern host species (O. princeps) was descended from a northern ancestor or vice versa. Three parasite phylogenies revealed patterns consistent with the hypothesis of a southern origin, which is corroborated by four additional parasite lineages restricted to O. princeps. This finding reverses the traditional narrative for the origins of North American pikas and highlights the role of dispersal from temperate North America into Beringia in structuring northern diversity considerably prior to the Holocene. By evaluating multiple parasite lineages simultaneously, the study demonstrates the power of HPCP for resolving complex biogeographic histories that are not revealed by characteristics of the host alone.
A versatile valving toolkit for automating fluidic operations in paper microfluidic devices.

Failure to utilize valving and automation techniques has restricted the complexity of fluidic operations that can be performed in paper microfluidic devices. We developed a toolkit of paper microfluidic valves and methods for automatic valve actuation using movable paper strips and fluid-triggered expanding elements. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first functional demonstration of this valving strategy in paper microfluidics. After introduction of fluids on devices, valves can actuate automatically after a) a certain period of time, or b) the passage of a certain volume of fluid. Timing of valve actuation can be tuned with greater than 8.5% accuracy by changing lengths of timing wicks, and we present timed on-valves, off-valves, and diversion (channel-switching) valves. The actuators require ~30 μl fluid to actuate and the time required to switch from one state to another ranges from ~5 s for short to ~50 s for longer wicks. For volume-metered actuation, the size of a metering pad can be adjusted to tune actuation volume, and we present two methods – both methods can achieve greater than 9% accuracy. Finally, we demonstrate the use of these valves in a device that conducts a multi-step assay for the detection of the malaria protein PfHRP2. Although slightly more complex than devices that do not have moving parts, this valving and automation toolkit considerably expands the capabilities of paper microfluidic devices. Components of this toolkit can be used to conduct arbitrarily complex, multi-step fluidic operations on paper-based devices, as demonstrated in the malaria assay device.
Quantitative trait locus analysis of circulating adhesion molecules in hyperlipidemic apolipoprotein E-deficient mice

Circulating soluble adhesion molecules have been suggested as useful markers to predict several clinical conditions such as atherosclerosis, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and hypertension. To determine genetic factors influencing plasma levels of soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) and P-selectin, quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis was performed on an intercross between C57BL/6J (B6) and C3H/HeJ (C3H) mouse strains deficient in apolipoprotein E-deficient (apoE−/−). Female F2 mice were fed a western diet for 12 weeks. One significant QTL, named sVcam1 (71 cM, LOD 3.9), on chromosome 9 and three suggestive QTLs on chromosomes 5, 13 and 15 were identified to affect soluble VCAM-1 levels. Soluble P-selectin levels were controlled by one significant QTL, named sSelp1 (8.5 cM, LOD 3.4), on chromosome 16 and two suggestive QTLs on chromosomes 10 and 13. Both adhesion molecules showed significant or an apparent trend of correlations with body weight, total cholesterol, and LDL/VLDL cholesterol levels in the F2 population. These results indicate that plasma VCAM-1 and P-selectin levels are complex traits regulated by multiple genes, and this regulation is conferred, at least partially, by acting on body weight and lipid metabolism in hyperlipidemic apoE−/− mice.
Impact of Information Technology on Public Accounting Firm Productivity

In recent years, information technology (IT) has played a critical role in the services provided by the public accounting industry. However, no empirical research has evaluated the impact of IT on public accounting firms. This study focuses on five offices of an international public accounting firm that recently made large IT investments, primarily in audit software and knowledge‐sharing applications. Both qualitative and quantitative information from the research site are analyzed to estimate the change in productivity following the implementation of IT. The results from both regression analysis and Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) indicate significant productivity gains following IT implementation, documenting the value impact of IT in a public accounting firm.
A Fast Protection System for Linear Acclerantors

The high beam current in the Los Alams Meson Physics Facility (LAMPF) accelerator constitutes a safety hazard to both personnel and equipment. It must be possible to inhibit beam injection rapidly and reliably in the event any condition occurs along the accelerator which will result in a beam spill. A hardware "fast protect" system based on transmission line principles has been developed which will provide a beam-inhibit signal in <10 ?s after detection of an alarm condition anywhere along the 3000-ft length of the facility. The system also provides a permissive function to prevent beam injection, should the facility not be in a condition to accept beam. An indication that a shutdown occurred, along with an identification of the source which initiated it, is passed through an interface to the central control computer. The hardware is fail-safe to single component failures and features computer testing of the system integrity. Some details of the design, related to device-selection, ground-isolation, computer faultdetection, and provision for pulsing the rf out of the beam time are discussed. Comments relating to a prototype system installed on a computer-controlled electron linac are presented.
Trait modulation of alcohol-induced laboratory aggression

Modest alcohol and aggressive trait effects on laboratory-induced aggression among men have been reported with some consistency in the literature. Relationships between aggressive personality traits and laboratory-induced aggression appear to become less consistent under the influence of alcohol. Several research teams have found suggestions that the effects of alcohol on laboratory aggression may be reduced or even reversed among individuals with aggressive personality traits. This study examined the effects of alcohol on the aggressive responding on the Point Subtraction Aggression Paradigm (PSAP) of eight undergraduate men who generated evidence on the Million Clinical Multiaxial Inventory-II (MCMI-II) of sadistic-aggressive personality disorder features. This sample was compared with a group of 18 undergraduate male peers without MCMI-II elevations described in a previous study. Neither alcohol ingestion (0.8 ml/kg) nor aggressive personality traits predicted laboratory behavior in isolation, but alcohol was found to selectively attenuate (d = 0.75) PSAP responding for the sadistic-aggressive as opposed to the control subjects (i.e., a significant aggressive trait by alcohol interaction). The possible value of this counterintuitive response tendency in identifying men at elevated risk for alcohol-related aggression was discussed. Large, immediate reductions in laboratory-based aggressive responding while under the influence of alcohol might provide a paradoxical high risk indicator that has not been previously identified.
Cross Layer Design and Analysis of Multiuser Wireless Video Streaming Over 802.11e EDCA

We propose a novel cross layer solution for optimizing the performance of multiple users, which are concurrently transmitting their delay-sensitive video streams over the same shared contention-based wireless LAN. To improve the performance of their applications, they dynamically adapt their medium access control (MAC) strategies (i.e., retry limits). Higher retry limits will benefit the user, but they will also lead to an increased congestion for the other users. Hence, we explicitly consider how the cross layer strategy adopted by one video user will impact the strategies of the competing users. Specifically, we analytically model how the cross layer transmission strategies adopted by each wireless user impact their own incurred distortion and delay but also that of their competing wireless stations. We also propose a distributed, low-complexity, and highly scalable optimization algorithm which can maximize the utility of the delay-sensitive video application. We compare our scheme to existing retry limit-based solutions, and the simulation results show that the proposed solution can outperform these solutions and maximize the users' utilities in a highly congested multiuser wireless environment.
Nuclear spin qubits in a pseudospin quantum chain

We analyze a quantum-computer design based on nuclear spin qubits in a quasi-one-dimensional chain of non-Kramers doublet atoms. We explore the use of spatial symmetry breaking to obtain control over the local dynamics of a qubit. We also study the decoherence mechanisms at the single qubit level and the interactions mediated by the magnetic media. The design can be realized in ${\mathrm{PrBr}}_{3\ensuremath{-}x}{\mathrm{F}}_{x}$ with nuclear magnetic resonance techniques.
Sustainability and dynamics of outcrop-to-outcrop hydrothermal circulation

Most seafloor hydrothermal circulation occurs far from the magmatic influence of mid-ocean ridges, driving large flows of water, heat and solutes through volcanic rock outcrops on ridge flanks. Here we create three-dimensional simulations of ridge-flank hydrothermal circulation, flowing between and through seamounts, to determine what controls hydrogeological sustainability, flow rate and preferred flow direction in these systems. We find that sustaining flow between outcrops that penetrate less-permeable sediment depends on a contrast in transmittance (the product of outcrop permeability and the area of outcrop exposure) between recharging and discharging sites, with discharge favoured through less-transmissive outcrops. Many simulations include local discharge through outcrops at the recharge end of an outcrop-to-outcrop system. Both of these characteristics are observed in the field. In addition, smaller discharging outcrops sustain higher flow rates than larger outcrops, which may help to explain how so much lithospheric heat is extracted globally by this process.
Publication outcome of abstracts presented at the AACC annual meeting.

Abstract Background Failure to publish study results causes duplication of effort and is a significant source of waste. It also can lead to distortions in the evidence base that can lead to misallocation of resources and medical harm. Failure to publish is commonly studied by comparing the conversion rate of meeting abstracts or publication rate of registered trials and has not been studied in clinical chemistry. The objective of this study was to determine the abstract conversion rate in clinical chemistry. Methods For the set of abstracts published from the 2011 annual meeting of the American Association for Clinical Chemistry, we determined which converted to full publications and which had not. We used 3 methods to match publications to abstracts: 1) a survey sent to corresponding authors of abstracts, 2) a web scrape of Google Scholar, and PubMed, and 3) a manual search using Scopus. Publication rates were compared by topic, country of corresponding author, institution type, and award recognition. Results Matching publications were found for 38% (95% CI: 34–42%) of the abstracts. The acceptance rate for submitted manuscripts was 34% (95% CI: 28–43%) among those who responded to the survey. Publication rates varied by topic (range 13% to 59%); rates from academic institutions were higher than commercial institutions (42% vs 16%, p Conclusion A significant proportion of abstracts presented at the AACC national meeting are not followed by full publication.
Temperature dependent carrier mobility in graphene: Effect of Pd nanoparticle functionalization and hydrogenation

The two dimensional nature of graphene, with charge carriers confined within one atomic layer thickness, causes its electrical, optical, and sensing properties to be strongly influenced by the surrounding media and functionalization layers. In this study, the effect of catalytically active Pd nanoparticle (NP) functionalization and subsequent hydrogenation on the hall mobility and carrier density of chemical vapor deposition synthesized graphene has been investigated as a function of temperature. Prior to functionalization, the mobility decreased monotonically as the temperature was reduced from 298 to 10 K, indicating coulomb scattering as the dominant scattering mechanism as expected for bilayer graphene. Similar decreasing trend with temperature was also observed after 2 nm Pd deposition, however, hydrogenation of the Pd NP led to significant enhancement in mobility from ∼2250 to 3840 cm2/V s at room temperature, which further monotonically increased to 5280 cm2/V s at 10 K. We attribute this contrasti...
Prevalence of xerostomia in an adolescent inpatient psychiatric clinic: a preliminary study.

Objective Adolescents with psychiatric conditions may be at risk for xerostomia. In this preliminary study, we estimated xerostomia prevalence in adolescents ages 9 to 17 years from an inpatient psychiatric clinic (N = 25) and examined whether: (1) gender and age were associated with xerostomia and (2) xerostomia was associated with self-reported cavities. Methods We used a modified 11-item Xerostomia Index to identify xerostomia (no/yes) and asked if adolescents ever had or currently have cavities (no/yes). Results The mean age was 14 years (SD = 2.3) and 72% were male. Sixty percent reported xerostomia (SD = 50). There were no significant associations between xerostomia and gender (p = 0.99) or age (p = 0.66), or between xerostomia and past (p = 0.26) or current cavities (p = 0.11). Larger proportions of adolescents with xerostomia reported previous and current cavities. Conclusions Sixty percent of adolescents from an inpatient psychiatric clinic reported having xerostomia, which may lead to increased caries risk over time. Additional research should examine the prevalence and consequences of xerostomia in high-risk adolescents.
Structure and Mechanics of the Dragonfly Pterothorax

The exact structure and movement of parts in the dragonfly flight mechanism are described and illustrated. The tergum, which articulates only with the wings, has 6 functional connections with each wing. Each wing has 2 fulcra. Wing twist is caused by a difference in elevation of the 2 wing base plates. Small, differently colored flight muscles appear to function tonically because of their length and positions. Phasic (rapidly contracting) muscles cancel their individual wing twisting forces when functioning together. Wing twisting is probably caused by relaxation of individual muscles. Phasic muscles are probably not able to produce delicate graded responses. As a result, small tonic muscles appear to function in gliding, adjusting wings of a dragonfly when at rest for balance in turbulent air, and damping to reduce power of phasic muscles of 1 side during turning.
The Independent Effects of Strength Training in Cancer Survivors: a Systematic Review

Cancer treatment is associated with adverse changes in strength, body composition, physical function, and quality of life. Exercise training reduces cancer incidence and mortality rates and may offset some of the treatment-related effects. To determine the independent effects of strength training (ST) on the effects of cancer treatment, an initial search was performed in March and then updated in November 2015. Additional articles were identified by scanning references from relevant articles. Studies using traditional ST on strength, body composition, aerobic capacity, functional assessments, and psychosocial parameters were included. Excluded studies had no objective strength measurement or combined ST with additional exercise. Mean and standard deviations from 39 studies across seven cancer types were extracted for main outcomes. ST-induced change scores with 95% confidence intervals were calculated and were evaluated with paired t tests, where appropriate. Twenty to fifty percent improvements in maximal strength were observed, indicating that the ST programs were effective. Physical function was also enhanced (7-38%), although gains were less consistent. Body composition and psychosocial changes were rare, with only a few changes in selected cancer types. As such, ST appears to promote benefits that may be specific to cancer types. Strength was the only consistent outcome that improved in all cancer survivors. However, these gains in strength are still of tremendous importance, given its impact on functionality and quality of life. Several practical considerations for exercise testing, training, and data reporting are presented for consideration to improve the overall depth of the field.
Suitability of approaches for measuring parasitoid impact on Lymantria dispar (Lepidoptera : Lymantriidae) populations

This study was designed to evaluate biases associated with four methods of estimating stage-specific parasitism and one method of estimating time-specific parasitism for two parasitoids attacking gypsy moth, Lymantria dispar (L.), larvae. Estimates for all five methods were calculated using both observed death rates and marginal attack rates. Calculating percentage parasitism by pooling all hosts collected during the season resulted in an underestimation of stage-specific parasitism by both Cotesia melanoscela (Ratzeburg) and Parasetigena silvestris (Robineau-Desvoidy). Percentage parasitism by C. melanoscela peaked after completion of recruitment of hosts and parasitoids and before substantial losses (death or emergence) of either hosts or parasitoids. Consequently, peak sample percentage parasitism was an unbiased estimate of stage-specific parasitism by C. melanoscela . Oviposition and emergence of P. silvestris overlapped considerably with each other and also with losses of hosts not parasitized by P. silvestris . As a result, the peak value of percentage parasitism was not appropriate for use with this species. The release of laboratory-reared larvae (trap-hosts) to directly measure the number of parasitoids recruited into the susceptible stage of the host did not provide accurate estimates of percentage parasitism by either species, possibly because of different sizes and behaviors of trap-host larvae. The graphical method of estimating numbers entering a stage used by Southwood & Jepson in 1962 is unbiased only if minimal mortality occurs during sampling. This was true for C. melanoscela , but not for P. silvestris . Mortality of parasitized hosts can also affect estimates of time-specific parasitism of hosts collected in the field. Because mortality of gypsy moths parasitized by P. silvestris was high, this method is not recommended for P. silvestris , and an alternative technique is suggested.
Preparation and Properties of Ba2YCu3O7-x-BaZrO3 Superconductive Composite by Spray Drying Method

Ba2YCu3O7-x-BaZrO3 superconductive composite was prepared by spray drying method. The composite sintered body had nano-composite structure consisting of Ba2YCu3O7-x and intragrain BaZrO3 particles with a less than 100nm size. The contribution of BaZrO3 particles to flux pinning was discussed by microstructure observation and pinning property measurement of the sintered body.
Abstract B89: Child second-hand and third-hand exposure to carcinogens and tobacco toxicants

Exposure to secondhand tobacco smoke (SHS) is a recognized cause of cardiovascular disease and cancer in adults and respiratory disease in children. In spite of this, approximately one-third of children in the United States live in a home where cigarette smoking is permitted. Few limitations have been enacted on the primary source of SHS exposure in children, inhome exposure. We quantified 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanol and its glucoronidies (total NNAL) in the urine of 79 children who lived in homes with a parent(s) who smoked. Total NNAL is an accepted biomarker of uptake of the tobacco-specific carcinogen 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone. Cotinine and nicotine and their glucuronides (total cotinine/nicotine) were also quantified. Children ranged in age from one month to 10 years (mean+ sd: 3.82+2.55); 49% were male. Among the parents, 56% were African American, 26% had White and “Other” [.11, 95% CI:.08-.17 vs. .03, 95% CI:.02-.06 vs. .07, 95% CI: .03-.12, respectively], p employed [i.e., .10, 95% CI:.07 — .14 vs. .05, 95% CI .03 — .05] p higher income [.09, 95% CI .07 — .13 vs. .04, 95% CI: .02 — .09], p 30 minutes); parental endorsement of child exposure in home; and levels of home and car smoking restrictions. NNAL was also correlated with parent CO level (r=.29, p Citation Information: Cancer Prev Res 2010;3(12 Suppl):B89.
Virginia Political Economy: A View from Vienna

The task of the economist, from an Austrian perspective, is twofold: (1) to render economic phenomena intelligible in terms of purposive human action, and (2) to trace out the unintended consequences, both desirable and undesirable, of human actions. When analyzing political exchange, the economist's task is not altered. Austrian economists have much to learn from the work of the Virginia School of Political Economy as exemplified by Buchanan. By merging public choice insights with Austrian analysis - a framework in which Buchanan fits quite comfortably - Austrians can improve their understanding of political economy and buttress their case for individual liberty.
Glycine receptor reduction within segmental gray matter in a rat model of neuropathic pain

Glycine is an amino acid neurotransmitter found in the spinal cord and is closely associated with interneurons that modulate afferent activity. We have previously shown that low segmental glycine concentrations or blockade of normal glycinergic activity lowers the threshold for pain thresholds. In addition, intrathecal glycine infusion increases the pain threshold in animal models of neuropathic pain. However, the role of the glycine receptor in neuropathic pain is not clear and is the basis for the current study. Using a unilateral sciatic nerve constriction injury model of neuropathic pain, the strychnine sensitive glycine receptor population was studied using immunohistochemical techniques. Glycine receptors are reduced in number in the dorsal horn bilaterally in injured animals. Glycine and related compounds are potentially valuable agents for treating chronic pain conditions in humans. A better understanding of glycine-receptor interactions should prove valuable as these compounds are studied in greater depth.
Improving student-perceived benefit of academic advising within education of occupational and physical therapy in the United States: a quality improvement initiative

Academic advising is a key role for faculty in the educational process of health professionals; however, the best practice of effective academic advising for occupational and physical therapy students has not been identified in the current literature. The purpose of this quality improvement initiative was to assess and improve the faculty/student advisor/advisee process within occupational and physical therapy programs within a school of allied health professions in the United States in 2015. A quality improvement initiative utilizing quantitative and qualitative information was gathered via survey focused on the assessment and improvement of an advisor/advisee process. The overall initiative utilized an adaptive iterative design incorporating the plan-do-study-act model which included a three-step process over a one year time frame utilizing 2 cohorts, the first with 80 students and the second with 88 students. Baseline data were gathered prior to initiating the new process. A pilot was conducted and assessed during the first semester of the occupational and physical therapy programs. Final information was gathered after one full academic year with final comparisons made to baseline. Defining an effective advisory program with an established framework led to improved awareness and participation by students and faculty. Early initiation of the process combined with increased frequency of interaction led to improved student satisfaction. Based on student perceptions, programmatic policies were initiated to promote advisory meetings early and often to establish a positive relationship. The policies focus on academic advising as one of proactivity in which the advisor serves as a portal which the student may access leading to a more successful academic experience.
An open source high-performance solution to extract surface water drainage networks from diverse terrain conditions

This paper describes a workflow for automating the extraction of elevation-derived stream lines using open source tools with parallel computing support and testing the effectiveness of procedures i...
Persuasion and Predation: The Effects of U.S. Military Aid and International Development Aid on Civilian Killings

Powerful states frequently employ foreign aid to pursue international security objectives. Yet aid's effectiveness will be undermined if it exacerbates the effects of conflict on civilians within r...
How “User Friendly” Is the Hospital for Practicing Hand Hygiene? An Ergonomic Evaluation

Article-at-a-Glance Background An important cause of nonoptimal hand hygiene may be lack of "user friendliness" of hand hygiene resources due to violation of ergonomic principles in the design of the hospital environment and lack of timely replenishment of consumable resources. Methods An ergonomics-based tool, SWAG (for the four main hand hygiene resources—sinks, waste receptacles, alcohol-based hand rub dispensers, and gloves) was developed and implemented to assess the intensive care units and 59 individual rooms in the hospital for structural ergonomic characteristics that facilitate usage of these resources. Results Several deficiencies in the structural layout of hand hygiene resources were identified that hinder their usage, such as poor visibility, difficulty of access, placement at undesirable height, lack of redundancy, and wide spatial separation of resources that are used sequentially. Consumable hand hygiene resources were often not available because of lack of timely replenishment. Discussion Many simple inexpensive changes using ergonomic principles can be implemented to promote hand hygiene in hospitls.
A computerized matchmaker that is capable of learning

This paper describes a self-adaptive, learning system which, beyond the humorous task environment presently placed into, can be made use of in a variety of personality tests. Possible applications range from market research studies to quasioptimum game playing programs. It is hoped that Women's Libbers will recognize the tongue-in-cheek approach. Phase I of the learning program MATER aims at discovering the terms of the evaluation function to be patterned and computes the weights of importance of its features approximately. Phase II adjusts further these weights, if needed, to match those of the subject imitated.
Hot deformation of sintered titanium powder preforms

1. It was established that the shaping of titanium powder at very high pressures (6–7 tons/cm2), exceeding the yield stress of titanium, and subsequent vacuum sintering at 1100–1200°C is incapable of imparting a density of 100% to preforms. Because of the residual porosity (4–6%), the mechanical properties of such preforms are much lower than those of cast and worked titanium. 2. A study was made of the effect of forging, upsetting, and extrusion on the density of sintered titanium preforms. It is shown that a processing schedule consisting of cold shaping, sintering, and subsequent hot deformation enables a density of 100% to be attained. 3. The mechanical properties of sintered specimens subjected to hot deformation were determined. It is demonstrated that the strength, ductility, and impact strength of such specimens approach those laid down by standard specifications for VT1-00 titanium alloy.
The determination of glacier speed by time-lapse photography under unfavorable conditions

Two practical problems in the use of time-lapse photography for the measurement of speed were encountered during the recent surge of West Fork Glacier in the central Alaska Range, Alaska, U.S.A. The first is severe rotational camera instability; we show how natural, unsurveyed features on the valley wall can be used to make the necessary corrections. The second problem is the computation of absolute speed when many different, unsurveyed glacier-surface features are used as targets. We give a method for connecting the data obtained from different targets, and for determining the scale using limited information obtained by surveying. Severe systematic errors can occur unless the angle between the axis of the lens and the direction of horizontal motion is determined.
Visualized Emotion Ontology: a model for representing visual cues of emotions

Healthcare services, particularly in patient-provider interaction, often involve highly emotional situations, and it is important for physicians to understand and respond to their patients’ emotions to best ensure their well-being. In order to model the emotion domain, we have created the Visualized Emotion Ontology (VEO) to provide a semantic definition of 25 emotions based on established models, as well as visual representations of emotions utilizing shapes, lines, and colors. As determined by ontology evaluation metrics, VEO exhibited better machine-readability (z=1.12), linguistic quality (z=0.61), and domain coverage (z=0.39) compared to a sample of cognitive ontologies. Additionally, a survey of 1082 participants through Amazon Mechanical Turk revealed that a significantly higher proportion of people agree than disagree with 17 out of our 25 emotion images, validating the majority of our visualizations. From the development, evaluation, and serialization of the VEO, we have defined a set of 25 emotions using OWL that linked surveyed visualizations to each emotion. In the future, we plan to use the VEO in patient-facing software tools, such as embodied conversational agents, to enhance interactions between patients and providers in a clinical environment.