cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Formal sector job growth and women’s labor sector participation

Abstract This paper looks at the effects of demand and supply on the determinants of labor sector (school, home work, informal, and formal) participation between Torreon and Tijuana, Mexico for married and single women. Comparisons between the two cities are used to capture differences in labor demand. Torreon is a traditional city with an agri-industrial base and Tijuana is a border city with large export processing (maquiladora) and tourism sectors, both of which demand female labor. Factors influencing labor supply include both individual and household characteristics. Married women, given the strong cultural tradition of working in the home, do not significantly increase their paid labor participation with higher labor demand or changing characteristics of the household. Personal characteristics have the greatest impact on labor sector participation. Single women do, however, increase their formal sector participation with additional employment opportunities and respond to household needs by moving in and out of the paid labor market. Results indicate that increases in labor demand in Mexico from the NAFTA could expand formal sector labor force participation of single women.
DETERMINATION, BY SPODOGRAPHY, OF THE INTRACELLULAR DISTRIBUTION OF MINERAL MATTER THROUGHOUT THE LIFE HISTORY OF BACILLUS CEREUS

Knaysi, Georges (Cornell University, Ithaca, N. Y.). Determination, by spodography, of the intracellular distribution of mineral matter throughout the life history of Bacillus cereus . J. Bacteriol. 82: 556–563. 1961.—The intracellular distribution of mineral matter throughout the life history of Bacillus cereus strain C 3 was investigated by microincineration for which the term spodography is suggested. The organism was grown in microcultures on collodion membranes supported by agar media. At various stages of development, microcultures were floated on distilled water, picked onto cover glasses, air-dried, and incinerated at 500 to 525 C. The mineral residue is deposited in situ and shows the distribution of mineral matter in the cells. Study of the spodograms thus obtained shows that in the spore mineral matter is concentrated in a peripheral layer surrounding a minerally poor core. As soon as the spore begins to germinate, often before one notes any change in its optical properties, the minerally rich layer increases in thickness while the core becomes gradually smaller and finally disappears. The germ cell appears nearly homogeneous, with evidence of mineral aggregation into discrete granules more readily seen in subsequent generations. The nuclei of the vegetative cells are sites of mineral accumulation. In the compound nuclei, minerals seem to be concentrated in a superficial ring around a minerally poor center. In the young forespore, mineral matter is homogeneously distributed. As the spore stage is approached, however, the mineral matter tends to occupy a peripheral position as in the completed spore. The results indicate that the calcium dipicolinate of the spore is principally in the minerally rich, peripheral layer. The relation of this layer to the other peripheral structures of the spore has not been determined. Observation was made with a phase microscope in dark contrast and using a dry objective. Images
Inositol metabolism in plants: II. The absolute configuration of d-xylose-5-t1 derived metabolically from myo-inositol-2-t in the ripening strawberry

Abstract d-Xylose-5-t1 from strawberry fruits labeled with myo-inositol-2-t was degraded according to the procedure of Lemieux and Howard [Can J. Chem.41, 308 (1963)] to yield carbons 4 and 5 as ethanol-1-t without altering the configuration of hydrogen attached to carbon-5 (carbon-1 of ethanol). Oxidation of this ethanol with yeast alcohol dehydrogenase and DPN+ produced acetaldehyde devoid of radioactivity. The reduced DPN was reoxidized with pyruvate and muscle lactic dehydrogenase. The resulting l -lactate (as its phenacyl ester) contained tritium, and in some experiments, its specific activity approached the specific activity of the ethanol-1-t. Comparison of this result with the chemical findings of Lemieux and Howard permits one to assign the absolute configuration R to d -xylose-5-t1 derived metabolically from myo-inositol-2-t by the strawberry. The stereochemical and metabolic significance of this discovery is discussed.
Current high energy neutrino experiments

In the universe of elementary particles the neutrino is unique in that — as far as we know — it interacts with other particles only through the Fermi or weak interaction. Cross sections for neutrino collisions with matter are of the order of 10-38 cm2 or less at moderate neutrino energies while the cross section for, say, electron scattering by matter is of order 10-30 cm2 at similar energies.
RNA-Seq Reveals Novel Transcriptional Reorganization in Human Alcoholic Brain

DNA microarrays have been used for over a decade to profile gene expression on a genomic scale. While this technology has advanced our understanding of complex cellular function, the reliance of microarrays on hybridization kinetics results in several technical limitations. For example, knowledge of the sequences being probed is required, distinguishing similar sequences is difficult because of cross-hybridization, and the relatively narrow dynamic range of the signal limits sensitivity. Recently, new technologies have been introduced that are based on novel sequencing methodologies. These next-generation sequencing methods do not have the limitations inherent to microarrays. Next-generation sequencing is unique since it allows the detection of all known and novel RNAs present in biological samples without bias toward known transcripts. In addition, the expression of coding and noncoding RNAs, alternative splicing events, and expressed single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) can be identified in a single experiment. Furthermore, this technology allows for remarkably higher throughput while lowering sequencing costs. This significant shift in throughput and pricing makes low-cost access to whole genomes possible and more importantly expands sequencing applications far beyond traditional uses (Morozova & Marra, 2008) to include sequencing the transcriptome (RNA-Seq), providing detail on gene structure, alternative splicing events, expressed SNPs, and transcript size (Mane et al., 2009; Tang et al., 2009; Walter et al., 2009), in a single experiment, while also quantifying the absolute abundance of genes, all with greater sensitivity and dynamic range than the competing cDNA microarray technology (Mortazavi, Williams, McCue, Schaeffer, & Wold, 2008).
Nociceptor activation and damage by pulsed E-fields

We assessed the capacity of ultrashort E-fields to activate rat cutaneous nociceptors. Experiments were conducted in vitro on nociceptive neurons representing hairy skin and glabrous skin. Electrical and optical recording methods were used to assess action potentials and membrane damage thresholds. Strength duration (SD) curves were formed for E-field pulses from 500 μsec to 350 ns. There were no differences in the SD time contant (taue (59 μsec) or ultrashort thresholds (129 V/cm at 350 ns) for hairy or glabrous skin nociceptors, for nociceptors with distinct geometry or for nociceptors expressing different combinations of voltage sensitive Na+ channels (TTXs and TTXr Nav) or hyperpolarization activated channels (HCN; IH). Subthreshold activation was possible with high frequency pulsing at ultrashort durations (350 ns; 4,000 Hz). Relative to single pulse thresholds, activation threshold could be reduced over 50% by high frequency burst trains (4,000 Hz; 1-40 msec). Nociceptors were not damaged by E-field activation. Irreversible membrane disruption occurred at significantly higher field strength and varied by cell radius (3,266-4,240 V/cm, 350 ns, 40 Hz, 5 sec). Pulse frequency had no influence on acute membrane failure (10, 20, 40, 4,000 Hz; 5 sec).
Physician judgments of chronic pain patients

Recent evidence has indicated that physician judgments of patients can be influenced by contextual factors. This study examined three contextual factors relevant to hypothetical patients with low back pain, using vignettes that were varied in a 2 x 2 x 2 factorial design: level of reported pain (high vs low), level of supporting medical evidence (high vs low), and the valence of the physician-patient interaction (positive vs negative). Perceived levels of pain, disability, emotional distress, and somatic preoccupation were rated by internists after reading a vignette. Ratings of pain and disability were lower for patients without supporting medical evidence; ratings of distress, somatic preoccupation, and disability were greater for patients who exhibited negative rather than positive affect; internist ratings of pain were lower than patient ratings among patients reporting high levels of pain, while ratings were inflated for patients with low levels of pain. The results suggest that characteristics of both the patient and the situation may influence medical judgments.
Allergic bronchopulmonary candidiasis

A patient had an illness consistent with allergic bronchopulmonary candidiasis. She had asthma, fleeting pulmonary infiltrate, immediate skin reactivity and precipitating antibody against Candida albicans, elevated total serum IgE concentration, elevated IgE and IgG antibody activity against C albicans, and two positive sputum cultures for C albicans. Serial serologic studies showed a significant decrease of serum IgE levels and IgE antibody activity after corticosteroid treatment.
Minor activities and transition state properties of the human steroid hydroxylases cytochromes P450c17 and P450c21, from reactions observed with deuterium-labeled substrates

The steroid hydroxylases CYP17A1 (P450c17, 17-hydroxylase/17,20-lyase) and CYP21A2 (P450c21, 21-hydroxylase) catalyze progesterone hydroxylation at one or more sites within a 2 A radius. We probed their hydrogen atom abstraction mechanisms and regiochemical plasticity with deuterium-labeled substrates: 17-[(2)H]-pregnenolone; 17-[(2)H]-, 16α-[(2)H]-, 21,21,21-[(2)H(3)]-, and 21-[(2)H]-progesterone; and 21,21,21-[(2)H(3)]-17-hydroxyprogesterone. Product distribution and formation rates with recombinant human P450-oxidoreductase and wild-type human CYP17A1 or mutation A105L (reduced progesterone 16α-hydroxylation) and wild-type human CYP21A2 or mutation V359A (substantial progesterone 16α-hydroxylation) were used to calculate intramolecular and intermolecular kinetic isotope effects (KIEs). The intramolecular KIEs for CYP17A1 and mutation A105L were 4.1 and 3.8, respectively, at H-17 and 2.9 and 5.1, respectively, at H-16α. Mutation A105L 21-hydroxylates progesterone (5% of products), and wild-type CYP17A1 also catalyzes a trace of 21-hydroxylation, which increases with 16α-[(2)H]- and 17-[(2)H]-progesterone. The intramolecular KIEs with CYP21A2 mutation V359A and progesterone were 6.2 and 3.8 at H-21 and H-16α, respectively. Wild-type CYP21A2 also forms a trace of 16α-hydroxyprogesterone, which increased with 21,21,21-[(2)H(3)]-progesterone substrate. Competitive intermolecular KIEs paralleled the intramolecular KIE values, with (D)V values of 1.4-5.1 and (D)V/K values of 1.8-5.1 for these reactions. CYP17A1 and CYP21A2 mutation V359A both 16α-hydroxylate 16α-[(2)H]-progesterone with 33-44% deuterium retention, indicating stereochemical inversion. We conclude that human CYP17A1 has progesterone 21-hydroxylase activity and human CYP21A2 has progesterone 16α-hydroxylase activity, both of which are enhanced with deuterated substrates. The transition states for C-H bond cleavage in these hydroxylation reactions are either significantly nonlinear and/or asymmetric, and C-H bond breakage is partially rate-limiting for all reactions.
The Emission Spectrograph in Agriculture and Biology

During the past few years, interest has grown in the role played in nutrition by the so-called trace elements. Present in minute quantities and either vital or toxic to plants or animals, these elements frequently elude all but the most sensitive analytical techniques; hence their name. With but a few exceptions, all of the trace elements are metallic and, as such are detectable by the emission spectrograph. For this reason, the spectrograph has turned out to be a valuable analytical tool in agriculture and biology.
CME-Flare Association Deduced from Catastrophic Model of CMEs

Based on our previous works regarding solar eruptions, we focus on the relationships among different eruptive phenomena, such as solar flares, eruptive prominences and coronal mass ejections (CMEs). The three processes show clear correlations under certain circumstances. The correlation between a CME and solar flare depends the energy that stored in the relevant magnetic structure, which is available to drive the eruption: the more energy that is stored, the better the correlation is; otherwise, the correlation is poor. The correlation between a CME and eruptive prominence, on the other hand, depends on the plasma mass concentration in the configuration prior to the eruption: if the mass concentration is significant, a CME starts with an eruptive prominence, otherwise, a CME develops an without an apparent associated eruptive prominence. These results confirm that solar flares, eruptive prominences and CMEs are different significances of a single physical process that is related to the energy release in a disrupted coronal magnetic field. The impact of gravity on CME propagation and the above correlations is also investigated. Our calculations indicate that the effect of gravity is not significant unless the strength of the background field in the disrupted magnetic configuration becomes weak, say weaker than 30 G.
James Croll and Charles Lyell as Glacial Epoch Theorists

Hays et al (1976) showed that variant orbital geometry was the "pacemaker" of the Ice Ages. They referenced James Croll (1875) among others. Croll also had presented calculations to demonstrate an equivalent relationship. Lyell tried unsuccessfully to apply Croll's astronomical data to climatic variation and envisioned large scale subsidence and elevation as the primary control of the Ice Ages. Croll argued against Lyell's use of orbital geometry and his geochronological model, taking 250,000 BP as the start of the glacial epoch, which by his calculation corresponded to the most recent and greatest orbital eccentricity. Both Croll and Lyell, in different ways, were on the right track, but technically updated astronomical data as well as microfossil indicators of oceanic temperature used in the modern synthesis, were needed.
Self-organized critical state in High-Tc superconductors

Abstract Flux creep data of a single crystal BSCCO are shown to demonstrate a qualitative agreement with the model of self-organized critical (SOC) state. The scaling behavior of j-E (or I-V) is interpreted in the picture of critical self-organization of avalanche flux motion.
EVIDENCE ON THE ROLE OF FIRM CAPABILITIES IN VERTICAL INTEGRATION DECISIONS

The capabilities approach to the firm postulates that firms vertically integrate activities for which they possess capabilities that are superior to potential suppliers'. The comparative contracting approach, in contrast, emphasizes high asset specificity as leading to vertical integration. This paper compares the two sets of explanations on make-or-buy decisions made by a large firm. It finds that in some cases asset specificity alone is determinant, but in others capabilities and combinations of considerations are explanatory. Analysis of the data also provides insights about the mechanisms through which capabilities operate. In particular, the similarity of the knowledge bases associated with various activities, and the time required to acquire knowledge, appear as important indicators of the importance of capabilities to vertical integration decisions.
Development of Sitophilus zeamais Motschulsky, in maize kernels and pellets made from maize kernel fractions

Abstract As a means of studying certain aspects of resistance of maize varieties to Sitophilus zeamais, various types of pellets were prepared using ground maize and compared with whole, pericarpless, and germless kernels. Numbers of weevil progeny (from six females and three males, and usually a 7-day oviposition period) were greatest in pellets made of flour moistened with water containing agar. More progeny was produced in pellets than in whole kernels. Damaged kernels (hot-water treated, pericarpless, germless) were more susceptible than undamaged kernels and fewer weevil progeny were produced in pellets made of germless kernels than from pellets of whole kernels. Additions of small amounts of extra germ tissue to whole maize flour enhanced the susceptibility of pellets to the weevil, but adding larger amounts of germ of pericarp reduced progeny number, weight and developmental speed.
Evaluation of the Pro-inflammatory Cytokine Tumor Necrosis Factor-α in Adolescents with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Abstract Background Patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) often suffer from comorbidities associated with chronic inflammation characterized by elevations in pro-inflammatory cytokines. There is limited data on markers of chronic inflammation, in particular Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α), in adolescents with PCOS. Objectives To compare serum levels of TNF-α in overweight or obese adolescents with PCOS and obese controls. In the PCOS group, to correlate serum TNF-α levels with body mass index (BMI) z-score, severity of hyperandrogenism, degree of insulin resistance, and ovarian ultrasonographic characteristics. Methods We performed a cross-sectional retrospective analysis of clinical and biochemical findings in 23 overweight or obese adolescent females with PCOS (mean BMI z-score 2, mean age 15.2 yrs) and 12 obese age- and sex-matched controls (mean BMI z-score 2, mean age 14.1 y). All subjects were post-menarchal. Serum TNF-α levels were compared between groups. In the PCOS group, cytokine levels were correlated with BMI z-score, androgen levels, fasting insulin and glucose levels as well as ovarian ultrasonographic features. Results Both groups were comparable in age, BMI z-score, fasting glucose, and fasting insulin. Mean free testosterone was 9.76 ± 5.13 pg/mL in the PCOS group versus 5 ± 2.02 pg/mL in the control group ( P = .0092). Serum TNF-α was 7.4 ± 4 pg/mL in the PCOS group versus 4.8 ± 3.16 pg/mL in the control group ( P = .0468). There was no significant correlation between serum TNF-α and BMI z-score, free testosterone, fasting insulin, or fasting glucose. No correlation existed between serum TNF-α and ovarian follicle number, distribution, or volume. Conclusions Serum TNF-α is elevated in overweight/obese adolescents with PCOS. Chronic inflammation in adolescents with PCOS render them at a potential increased risk for the development of atherosclerosis, type 2 diabetes, cancer, infertility, and other comorbidities. Every effort should be made to identify adolescents with PCOS early and initiate aggressive therapy to prevent future complications.
Systolic Time Intervals and Left Ventricular Function in Acute Myocardial Infarction

Systolic time intervals (STI) were measured simultaneously with left ventricular pressure, right atrial pressure, and cardiac output in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) within 24 hours of the onset of symptoms. Electromechanical systole (QS2) and left ventricular ejection time (LVET) were measured and preejection period (PEP) calculated and corrected for heart rate. LVET showed significant correlation with stroke volume (r = 0.62), confirming previous observations. Patients with significantly elevated left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP) and clinical signs of congestive heart failure (CHF) usually exhibited a prolonged PEP when compared with normal subjects or patients with AMI who did not have signs of CHF. The normal PEP in the latter group might be due to adrenergic stimulation offsetting the effect of myocardial damage, although measurements of circulating catecholamines did not conclusively support this hypothesis. We conclude that STI are not reliable indices of left ventri...
The functional boundaries of the Q-utilization site required for antitermination of late transcription in bacteriophage λ

Abstract Expression of the late genes of bacteriophage λ requires, in addition to the host functions, the λ p′R, promoter, the antiterminator sequence qut, and the product of gene Q which interacts with the Q utilization (quo site. In the absence of the Q function or qut site, the p′R-initiated transcription is blocked by the t′Rterminator at the 194th nucleotide downstream of the start point, S′Rproducing a short 6 S mRNA. In this study the position and boundaries of the qut site were deduced by constructing plasmids containing various portions of the pR′-qut region, the t′R1terminator, and the reporter gene galK. We measured galK gene expression in response to the λ Q gene product supplied in trans by a prophage or Q-expression plasmid. We show that among the λ proteins, the Q gene product alone is necessary and sufficient for complete quit-mediated transcription antitermination in vivo. These antitermination experiments, employing plasmids that contain different lengths of λ p′R-qut sequence, identified the right boundary of the qut site, which is located between +4 and +18 (for s′R = +1). The functional left boundary of qut does not extend upstream from the −26th nucleotide of the p′R promoter, as based on the following experiments. The promoter function of the truncated (−26)p′R-S′R-(+18) sequence can be restored by fusion to the complete but qut-less p′R, Pp or PLac promoter; however, no antitermination was observed for such a p-(−26)p′R-s′R-(+18)-t′R-galK plasmid. Thus we conclude that the qut site partially overlaps with the p′R, promoter sequence. However, promoters that contain the −10 region of p′R,s′R and the +1 to +18 qut sequence did mediate Q-dependent antitermination when properly fused to the homologous or heterologous −35 promoter regions. Only those transcripts that start at s′R (+1 or very near to it) and also contain at least the first 18 nucleotides (actually >4 and ⩽18) of 6 S RNA appear to be a target for the Q-qut-mediated transcription antitermination, which acts not only at t′R but also at other Rho-independent or Rho-dependent terminators.
Sarcoidosis in patients with celiac disease.

Purpose Several case reports and European studies have suggested an association between sarcoidosis and celiac disease; however, they have been inconsistent. We therefore analyzed a large cohort of celiac-disease patients to assess this association. Methods An anonymized database of patients with celiac disease was reviewed to determine the number of patients with sarcoidosis. Age- and gender-adjusted standardized morbidity ratios with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated by comparing results to US-population-derived prevalence data. Results Ten patients were found to have a comorbid diagnosis of sarcoidosis, representing an age- and gender-adjusted standardized morbidity ratio of 36.8 (95% CI 26.7–50.9). Conclusions In this cohort of patients with celiac disease, there was a significantly increased risk of sarcoidosis when compared with the American white population. This further strengthens prior associations that have been made suggesting a shared mechanism behind the etiologies of celiac disease and sarcoidosis.
Effect of Wind on Growth of Fryers After Two Weeks of Age

ABSTRACT WITH the conventional hot-spot cold-room type of brooding the chick is usually free to choose his environment. But the use of outdoor brooding and brooder houses with ventilating fans may subject the chick to considerable air-movement. The effect of continuous wind on chick growth, to the best of our knowledge, has not previously been investigated experimentally. The purposes of the experiments described herein were (1) to determine the amount of wind that growing chicks could tolerate and (2) to observe whether seasonal variations affected the chicks’ response to wind. Growth rate and mortality were the two principal criteria used. References pertaining to ventilation rates needed for chicks have been concerned chiefly with condensation and the wet-litter problem. Dougherty and Moses (1933) point out that ventilation of an electric brooder is needed not so much to meet the physical needs of the birds as to keep the interior of the brooder . . .
A caridean grass shrimp (Palaemonetes Pugio Holthius) as an indicator of sediment quality in Florida coastal areas affected by point and nonpoint source contamination

Grass shrimp are one of the more widely distributed estuarine benthic organisms along the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic coasts, but they were used infrequently in contaminated sediment assessments. Early-life stages of caridean grass shrimp, Palaemonetes pugio (Holthius), were used in this baseline survey as indicators of sediment pore water quality for several Florida coastal areas affected by nonpoint and point sources of contamination. Static toxicity tests were conducted using 24 well culture plates assessing embryo and larval survival after 12 days exposure to pore water (interstitial water). Acute toxicity was observed in 28% of pore waters (15 of 53 samples) suggesting that sediment contamination was not widespread in the study area based on the response of this species. When toxicity was observed, grass shrimp pore water toxicity test was usually a more sensitive indicator of contamination than solid-phase tests conducted with the epibenthic invertebrate, Mysidopsis bahia. P. pugio embryos were more sensitive than larval form and response of different brood stocks usually were similar (P > 0.05) when exposed to same pore waters. Based on all considerations, this early-life stage toxicity test shows promise being useful detecting pore water toxicity. This conclusion is based on availability of a test methodology which requires minimal space and effort, and the test species widespread geographical distribution. However, there are several remaining research needs, including the important issue of its sensitivity relative to that for other pore water test species as well as for species used in solid-phase toxicity tests.
Assessing the Utility of Stochastic Employee Movements

This article illustrates the substantial effects employee movements (i.e., movements due to employee promotions, transfers, and separations) have on the value of a human resource intervention. Two methods for estimating differential employee movements are presented and their resulting utility estimates are contrasted and compared. Finally, the advantages and disadvantages of each procedure are discussed as well as the value such information provides to organizational decision makers.
The effectiveness of intravenous hypertonic sucrose and adrenalin in the treatment of status asthmaticus

T HE patient in status asthmaticus is an acute medical emergency for which there is no satisfactory method of treatment. A measure which will relieve the grave respiratory distress immediately, even though temporarily, may be lifesaving. The bronchi and bronchioles, in bronchial asthma, are partially obstructed by exudate, by muscular contraction, and by swelling of the mucosa. This partial obstruction must be more marked in status asthmaticus. The difference in degree of obstruction is probably due to an increase in the exudate and in the swelling of the mucosa. Naturally, such reasoning is purely theoretical. Therapy, nevertheless, should be directed toward the alleviation of the obstruction. It is necessary for the patient to relieve himself of the exudate by coughing. Adrenalin, because of its constrictive effect on the blood vessels and its dilating effect on the smooth musculature of the bronchial tree, gives relief in the ordinary attack of asthma. Adrenalin is often inefficient in status asthmaticus and the patient, therefore, is generally considered to be adrenalin-fast. However, it is more logical to believe that the partial bronchial and bronchiolar obstruction has developed to such a degree that adrenalin alone is insufficient. The mucosal swelling should be lessened by increasing the osmotic pressure in the circulating blood with some hypertonic solution, thereby drawing the excess fluid from these tissues into the blood stream. The effects of various hypertonic solutions on t,he cerebrospinal fluid pressure have been extensively studied. The observations on animals by Bullock, Gregersen, and Kinney1 a,nd on human beings by Masserman2 and Hahn and his associates,” indicate that the secondary rise in the cerebrospinal fluid pressure following the use of hypertonic glucose and saline solutions is avoided by using hypertonic sucrose solution. The osmotic effect of such substances as sodium chloride and glucose, which pass through the capillary wall with ease, is curtailed by diffusion. Sucrose remains in the blood a longer time after injection because its molecules are larger and less diffusible. Furthermore, it is not broken down to any significant extent or utilized as glucose, nor stored in the tissues as is sodium chloride (Bullock, Gregersen, and KinneyI).
Statistical Predictive Modeling and Compensation of Geometric Deviations of Three-Dimensional Printed Products

Geometric fidelity of 3D printed products is critical for additive manufacturing (AM) to be a direct manufacturing technology. Shape deviations of AM built products can be attributed to multiple variation sources such as substrate geometry defect, disturbance in process variables, and material phase change. Three strategies have been reported to improve geometric quality in AM: (1) control process variables x based on the observed disturbance of process variables Δx, (2) control process variables x based on the observed product deviation Δy, and (3) control input product geometry y based on the observed product deviation Δy. This study adopts the third strategy which changes the computer-aided design (CAD) design by optimally compensating the product deviations. To accomplish the goal, a predictive model is desirable to forecast the quality of a wide class of product shapes, particularly considering the vast library of AM built products with complex geometry. Built upon our previous optimal compensation study of cylindrical products, this work aims at a novel statistical predictive modeling and compensation approach to predict and improve the quality of both cylindrical and prismatic parts. Experimental investigation and validation of polyhedrons a indicates the promise of predicting and compensating a wide class of products built through 3D printing technology.
Botulinum toxin type A in the treatment of patients with cervical dystonia

Dystonia is an involuntary movement involving twisting and turning of agonist and antagonist muscles. Cervical dystonia is isolated to neck musculature. Botulinum toxin type A is a safe and effective treatment of this disabling and often painful syndrome. Three forms of botulinum toxin type A are available worldwide to treat patients with cervical dystonia. This is a review of the studies of botulinum toxin type A to treat cervical dystonia.
Computational Versus Associative Models of Simple Conditioning

In associative models of simple conditioning, conductive connections (associations, Hebbian synapses) are strengthened by the repetitive temporal pairing of stimuli. The associations cause the animal to behave more adaptively, but they do not encode information about objectively specifiable properties of the conditioning experience. In information processing (computational) models, the temporal intervals in that experience are timed and the results recorded in memory for later use in computations that determine the decisions whether and when to respond to the conditioned stimulus. The predictions of these latter models depend on the ratios of remembered and currently experienced temporal intervals; hence, they are time-scale invariant. Two examples of empirical time-scale invariance are described: Neither the delay of reinforcement nor the ratio of reinforced to unreinforced presentations of the conditioned stimulus affects rates of acquisition and extinction. Time-scale invariance has far-reaching implic...
The value from acquiring and divesting a joint venture: a real options approach

This study examines the value created from acquiring and divesting a joint venture. Unlike previous research which focuses on parent firm factors, the study examines value in light of the reason behind the termination of the venture and the characteristics of the target market. Consistent with the real options view, the paper finds that ventures divested to refocus a parent firm's product market portfolio were associated with significant value creation. In contrast, ventures acquired with the objective of growth and expansion in a target market, while not associated with significant value creation, did not destroy value either. Apart from these results, the paper also finds that acquirers and divesters gained lesser value when they terminated ventures in uncertain and concentrated industries. These latter findings highlight an important caveat with regard to termination: joint ventures confer valuable flexibility which is also forgone once they are terminated. Implications are discussed. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A community-based, culturally relevant intervention to promote healthy eating and physical activity among middle-aged African American women in rural Alabama: Findings from a group randomized controlled trial

Abstract Objective We examined the efficacy of a community-based, culturally relevant intervention to promote healthy eating and physical activity among African American (AA) women between the ages of 45–65 years, residing in rural Alabama. Methods We conducted a group randomized controlled trial with counties as the unit of randomization that evaluated two interventions based on health priorities identified by the community: (1) promotion of healthy eating and physical activity; and (2) promotion of breast and cervical cancer screening. A total of 6 counties with 565 participants were enrolled in the study between November 2009 and October 2011. Results The overall retention rate at 24-month follow-up was 54.7%. Higher retention rate was observed in the “healthy lifestyle” arm (63.1%) as compared to the “screening” arm (45.3%). Participants in the “healthy lifestyle” arm showed significant positive changes compared to the “screening” arm at 12-month follow-up with regard to decrease in fried food consumption and an increase in both fruit/vegetable intake and physical activity. At 24-month follow-up, these positive changes were maintained with healthy eating behaviors, but not engagement in physical activity. Conclusions A culturally relevant intervention, developed in collaboration with the target audience, can improve (and maintain) healthy eating among AA women living in rural areas.
The Syntheses and Structures of Ph4EN3 (E = P, As, Sb), an Example for the Transition from Ionic to Covalent Azides within the Same Main Group

The compounds Ph4EN3 (E = P, As, Sb) were prepared from the corresponding halides by ion exchange in aqueous solution. [Ph4P]N3 crystallizes in the triclinic space group , while [Ph4As]N3·H2O and Ph4SbN3 crystallize in the monoclinic space group P21/n. In contrast to ionic [Ph4P]+[N3]− and [Ph4As]+[N3]−, the antimony atom in Ph4SbN3 is pentacoordinated and contains a covalently bound azide ligand. This family of compounds serves as an example for the transition from ionic to covalent azides with increasing size of the central atom within the same group of the periodic table.
Optimal timing for elective egg freezing

Objective To estimate the optimal age to pursue elective oocyte cryopreservation. Design A decision-tree model was constructed to determine the success and cost-effectiveness of oocyte preservation versus no action when considered at ages 25–40 years, assuming an attempt at procreation 3, 5, or 7 years after initial decision. Setting Not applicable. Patient(s) Hypothetical patients 25–40 years old presenting to discuss elective oocyte cryopreservation. Intervention(s) Decision to cryopreserve oocytes from age 25 years to age 40 years versus taking no action. Main Outcome and Measure(s) Probability of live birth after initial decision whether or not to cryopreserve oocytes. Result(s) Oocyte cryopreservation provided the greatest improvement in probability of live birth compared with no action (51.6% vs. 21.9%) when performed at age 37 years. The highest probability of live birth was seen when oocyte cryopreservation was performed at ages 74%), although little benefit over no action was seen at ages 25–30 years (2.6%–7.1% increase). Oocyte cryopreservation was most cost-effective at age 37 years, at $28,759 per each additional live birth in the oocyte cryopreservation group. When the probability of marriage was included, oocyte cryopreservation resulted in little improvement in live birth rates. Conclusion(s) Oocyte cryopreservation can be of great benefit to specific women and has the highest chance of success when performed at an earlier age. At age 37 years, oocyte cryopreservation has the largest benefit over no action and is most cost-effective.
Child-care characteristics of infants with and without special needs: Comparisons and concerns

Abstract Employment patterns and child-care characteristics and concerns of mothers and infants (12–15 months) with special needs (n = 166) were described and compared with a group of typically-developing children and their mothers (n = 139). Compared with the latter group, fewer mothers of children with special needs had reentered the work force by one year; infants began child care at an older age, and for fewer hours; care by relatives was more common, and formal arrangements were less common. The groups did not differ on any measures of observed quality of care. Special needs were an important concern in making employment decisions and finding child care for 1 3 of the sample.
Circumventing the Vasovagal Fainting Response: A Novel Method of In Vivo Exposure for Injection Phobia

A novel method of in vivo exposure therapy was administered to a 26-year-old female with injection phobia. She had a history of fainting at the sight of syringes, needles, and other medical devices...
Inelastic Electron-Atom Collisions under Near-Resonance Conditions: Analysis of Transitions Involving Strong Coupling

A method has been devised to calculate the cross sections of inelastic electron-atom collisions under near-resonance conditions. This method (referred to as the method of resonance distortion) consists of solving the limiting exact-resonance problem as the zeroth-order approximation and using this solution to obtain the first-order solution by an iteration procedure, and is particularly suitable for treating optically allowed transitions produced by electron impact where the coupling between the initial and final states is strong and of long-range type. Application of this method has been made to a schematic model with an isotropic inverse-square interaction potential and to the problem of electron-atom collisions with $\mathrm{ns}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\mathrm{np}$ transition. The general results indicate that (i) for weak coupling the collision strengths calculated by the resonance-distortion scheme reduce to those calculated by the method of distorted waves, (ii) the resonance-distortion method and Seaton's B'II method give nearly equal partial cross sections for large $l$, and (iii) at very low $l$, the B'II partial cross sections are substantially larger than those determined from the resonance-distortion method. The total cross sections for the $3s\ensuremath{\rightarrow}3p$ transition in Na have been calculated by the resonance-distortion method for various incident electron energies, and the results show better agreement with experiment than do those of the Born approximation and of Seaton's version of the modified Born approximation.
Survey evidence on diffusion of interest and information among investors

Abstract Questionnaire surveys of institutional and individual investors were undertaken to learn about patterns of communications. It was found that direct interpersonal communications are very important in investor decisions. Questions elicited what fraction of investors were unsystematic and allowed themselves to be influenced by word-of-mouth communications or other salient stimuli. Randomly sampled investors were studied as well as investors in stocks whose price had recently increased dramatically. Contagion or epidemic models of financial markets are proposed in which interest in individual stocks is spread by word of mouth. The survey evidence is interpreted as supporting such models.
Inheritance of social influences on eating and drinking in humans

The heritability of social effects on food and fluid intake was investigated with 110 identical and 102 fraternal same-sex and 53 fraternal mixed gender adult twin pairs who were paid to maintain 7-day food intake diaries. Linear structural modeling revealed significant genetic influences on the overall number and type of eating companions, and the magnitude of the correlations and slopes of the best fitting regression line between the number of people present at the meals and the amounts of nutrients ingested. These results suggest that both the amount of variance in meal size accounted for by the presence of other people and the amount of influence of each of these companions on the amount eaten are significantly affected by the genes. This suggests that responses to environmental stimuli are influenced by the genes and become part of the total package of genetically determined physiological and psychological processes that regulate energy balance.
Homeland Security Preparedness: The Rebirth of Regionalism

The homeland security mission has placed many new demands on the U.S. system of federalism. The successful implementation of homeland security policy requires cooperation among all levels of government—federal, state, and local. Regionalism offers a powerful tool for encouraging greater intergovernmental cooperation and improved homeland security preparedness. We assess the impact of regionalism on intergovernmental cooperation and the implementation of the homeland security mission in Florida, an early proponent of the regional approach. From a regional perspective, we evaluate how intergovernmental complexity, the quality and quantity of intergovernmental networks, and security vulnerabilities contribute to perceived improvements in intergovernmental cooperation and homeland security preparedness. The results of a 2004 mail survey of city and county officials suggest that regional organizational structures are most effective in promoting intergovernmental cooperation and preparedness where the intergovernmental landscape is the most complex and where security vulnerabilities are the most intense. Copyright 2005, Oxford University Press.
Schistosoma mansoni: A Cu/Zn Superoxide Dismutase Is Glycosylated When Expressed in Mammalian Cells and Localizes to a Subtegumental Region in Adult Schistosomes

Abstract We previously isolated a gene from Schistosoma mansoni with the capacity to encode a 20-kDa polypeptide that had homology to Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase from 19 other species. The predicted protein sequence contained a hydrophobic N-terminus as well as a site for N-linked glycosylation, suggesting that the protein was a secreted or membrane-associated form of the enzyme. To study this protein further, we first expressed it in a prokaryotic system and used the gene product to make both monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies. We then expressed the protein in CMT3 cells, a monkey kidney cell line, to investigate possible post-translational modifications. Our results demonstrated that the schistosomal protein expressed in CMT3 cells migrated on an SDS–polyacrylamide gel as multiple glycosylated species with molecular masses of 20, 22, and 23 kDa. Glycosylation was inhibited by tunicamycin, resulting in the expression of an unglycosylated product which migrated with a molecular mass of 18 kDa. The CMT3-cell expressed protein eluted from a gel filtration column with a molecular mass larger than 200 kDa, suggesting that it was membrane-associated or bound to a high-molecular-weight component. The product could not be detected in the medium of the CMT3 cell culture and apparently was not secreted. Comparison between the protein expressed in CMT3 cells and that found in adult schistosomes showed that the parasite-derived gene product was also heterogeneous but had different molecular masses (20, 23, and 25 kDa). The protein was localized in frozen sections of adult worms to the subtegumental area as detected by indirect immunofluorescence using monoclonal antibodies. Since the protein was glycosylated but not secreted we suggest it be called signal peptide-containing superoxide dismutase.
The optimum numerical aperture for attenuated phase-shifting masks

Abstract The imaging behavior of the attenuated phase shifting mask system is studied in terms of the figure of merit of depth of focus for single layer resist, single layer resist with anti reflection coating, and multi-layer resist systems using a ±10% linewidth tolerance and the exposure-defocus window methodology. Significant imaging improvements over conventional intensity masks for contact holes and line openings are identified. A small positive mask bias pushes the improvements towards higher resolution and practical exposure dosages. The imaging performance of contact holes will be compared with that of rim phase shifting masks. The attenuated phase shifting mask produces larger depth of focus, requires lower exposure times, and takes up less mask areas.
PEG−POSS Multiblock Polyurethanes: Synthesis, Characterization, and Hydrogel Formation

We report the synthesis and characterization of a series of multiblock thermoplastic polyurethane hydrogels synthesized with PEG as the soft segment and incorporating an isobutyl-functionalized POSS diol (TMP POSS diol) in the hard segment. The molecular weight of PEG was systematically varied to include 10, 20, and 35 kg/mol, while the molar ratio of POSS diol (as chain extender) to PEG was varied from 3:1 to 8:1 reported for a polymer series with PEG held constant at 10 kg/mol. The diisocyanate employed for TPU polymerization was 4,4′-methylenebis(phenyl isocyanate) (MDI). Wide-angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD) and small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) experiments revealed that both hydrophilic soft segments (PEG) and hydrophobic hard segments (POSS) can form crystalline structures driven by microphase separation due to the thermodynamic incompatibility. Consequently, the POSS nanocrystals serve as physical cross-linking points consisting, themselves, of an inorganic−organic hybrid networks. Interestingly, t...