cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Folding model potentials from realistic interactions for heavy-ion scattering

Abstract The double-folding model, with “realistic” nucleon-nucleon interactions based upon a G-matrix constructed from the Reid potential, is used to calculate the real part of the optical potential for heavy-ion scattering. The resulting potentials are shown to reproduce the observed elastic scattering for a large number of systems with bombarding energies from 5 to 20 MeV per nucleon. Some representative inelastic transitions are also reproduced. Exceptions are the elastic scattering of 6Li and 9Be for which the folded potentials must be reduced in strength by a factor of about two. The same effective interactions are shown to give a good account of two particular cases of alpha scattering as well as some cases of nucleon-nucleus scattering. Some typical examples of inelastic heavy-ion scattering are also predicted successfully. Some general properties of the folding model are reviewed and its theoretical basis is discussed. An explicit density-dependence is examined for one particular realistic interaction and found not to change the results. Single nucleon exchange is included in an approximate way and its importance is studied. In addition to being a study of the folding model, this work also provides a systematic and comprehensive optical model analysis of heavy-ion elastic scattering in this energy range.
Demographic correlates of physical activity in individuals with multiple sclerosis.

Purpose. There is limited information about the demographic characteristics associated with participation in physical activity among those with multiple sclerosis (MS). Hence, the present study examined 12 demographic variables in association with physical activity in a sample of individuals with MS.Method. Participants were 196 individuals with MS from the Midwestern portion of the United States. The participants provided demographic information and then wore a pedometer for a seven-day period.Results. Analyses indicated that increasing age, use of a cane for ambulation, unemployment, and primary and secondary progressive MS were independently associated with less physical activity participation in this sample of MS patients.Conclusion. Individuals with those characteristics are likely to be inactive and in need of a targeted intervention for increasing their participation in physical activity.
Transmission electron microscopy characterization of the nanofeatures in nanostructured ferritic alloy MA957

Abstract Bright field transmission electron microscopy (TEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, scanning transmission electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy were combined to comprehensively characterize the Ti–Y–O enriched nanoscale features (NF) in a nanostructured ferritic alloy (NFA), MA957. The characterization included the NF number densities, size distributions, volume fractions, crystal structures and compositions. In-foil measurements were complemented by studies of NF on C extraction replica foils. The conditions examined included: two heats of extruded MA957, one of these heats following long-term thermal aging at 1000 °C for 19.53 kh, and two friction-stir-weld variants. The study revealed the presence of diffracting complex oxide phases that varied somewhat with the feature size. However, the smallest features, with diameters (d)
Regulation of Endothelial Argininosuccinate Synthase Expression and NO Production by an Upstream Open Reading Frame

Argininosuccinate synthase (AS) catalyzes the rate-limiting step in the recycling of citrulline to arginine, which in endothelial cells, is tightly coupled to the production of nitric oxide (NO). In previous work, we established that endothelial AS mRNA can be initiated from multiple start sites, generating co-expressed mRNA variants with different 5′-untranslated regions (5′-UTRs). One of the 5′-UTRs, the shortest form, represents greater than 90% of the total AS mRNA. Two other extended 5′-UTR forms of AS mRNA, resulting from upstream initiations, contain an out-of-frame, upstream open reading frame (uORF). In this study, the function of the extended 5′-UTRs of AS mRNA was investigated. Single base insertions to place the uORF in-frame, and mutations to extend the uORF, demonstrated functionality, both in vitro with AS constructs and in vivo with luciferase constructs. Overexpression of the uORF suppressed endothelial AS protein expression, whereas specific silencing of the uORF AS mRNAs resulted in the coordinate up-regulation of AS protein and NO production. Expression of the full-length of the uORF was necessary to mediate a trans-suppressive effect on endothelial AS expression, demonstrating that the translation product itself affects regulation. In conclusion, the uORF found in the extended, overlapping 5′-UTR AS mRNA species suppresses endothelial AS expression, providing a novel mechanism for regulating endothelial NO production by limiting the availability of arginine.
Reversibility of ethanolamine and choline phosphotransferases (EC 2.7.8.1 and EC 2.7.8.2) in rat brain microsomes with labelled alkylacylglycerols

While using l-[3H]alkyl-2-linoleoyl-sn-glycerol as the labelled substrate for the synthesis of 1 -alkyl-2acyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholines (alkylacyl-GPC) by the cholinephosphotransferase in rat brain microsomes, a significant labelling of 1-alkyl-Zacyl-snglycero-3-phosphoethanolamines (alkylacyl-GPE) was observed without any addition of CDP-ethanolamine. A possible explanation is given in fig. 1, namely that the reverse reaction of rat brain ethanolaminephosphotransferase may degrade endogenous microsomal ethanolamine phosphoglycerides. In the present paper we report the enhancement of the reverse reaction of both phosphotransferases by addition of CMP, a product of phosphotransferase reactions.
Aggregation/disaggregation of intraurban residential location models and the perils of a proxy for potential variables

In this paper the effectiveness of using a proxy for potential variables in a regression model is analyzed. The results strongly suggest that potential variables provide greater explanatory power of accessibility than the proxy, especially in disaggregated testing.
Prediction and measurement of pasta quality

Summary In the past several years, pasta and noodle products have become a major growth segment of the cereal foods industry. The popularity of pasta can be attributed to its sensory appeal, versatility, low cost, ease of preparation, strong nutritional image and excellent storage stability as well as to increased consumer interest in ethnic foods. Predominant quality attributes of pasta, as they relate to its appearance, flavour and texture, have been described in this review. Because of their importance to consumer acceptance, textural properties of pasta and noodles have been investigated most extensively. Commonly applied sensory, instrumental and chemical methodologies for prediction or measurement of these characteristics have been critiqued, and pitfalls of current approaches have been delineated. Although sensory appraisal has often been used to evaluate pasta quality, increasing reliance on physical and chemical measurements to provide estimates of product quality has been occurring recently in research laboratories.
Communicating Trauma: Female Survivors’ Witnessing the No Gun Ri Killings:

In 2000, the Associated Press investigative report team won the Pulitzer Prize award for reporting on the No Gun Ri incident in which American troops during the Korean War killed innocent civilian refugees who had taken shelter near and under the bridge called No Gun Ri. As the primary witnesses of the No Gun Ri killings, female survivors have courageously communicated their unutterable trauma through both scripting and exorcizing. Through oral history interviews with survivors in South Korea, this article examines how the Confucian script of motherhood (i.e., mothers as reproducers, protectors, and expandable assistants of the male blood line) has enabled the No Gun Ri female rhetors on one hand to weave trauma into plausible stories, yet on the other hand provoked them to reflect on their memories with a sense of culpability. The findings of the study also suggest that the oral form of communication has facilitated the female rhetors to exorcize inarticulable memories which cannot be subject to the Conf...
Conformational analysis of 5-hydroxytryptamine and its cation: Γ, Φ -energy contour diagram by the INDO molecular orbital method

Complete conformational energy contour diagrams of 5-hydroxytryptamine and its cationic form have been obtained by the semi-empirical LCAO-MO-SCF method of the INDO level of approximation. The most stable conformation of the neutral form is when Γ is approximately 90 ° (or 270 °) and Φ is near 60 ° (l-gauche) and 300 ° (r-gauche). The higher stability of the gauche conformations over the trans form probably results from protic hydrogen-π-base interaction. The calculated stabilization energy is approximately 1 Kcal/mole. The quantum mechanical calculation of the Γ, Φ energy diagram is in qualitative agreement with the Γ, Φ interatomic distance diagram in the evaluation of the range of conformational degrees of freedom. Calculations on the 5-hydroxytryptamine cation show that the stabilization energy due to proton-π-interaction appears to be exaggerated because the counter-anion is neglected in the calculation. In the neutral species the hydrogen-π-base interaction does not seem to be charge-transfer type, while there is a strong indication that in the cationic form the charge-transfer type of interaction is significant.
Validity of the patient health questionnaire-9 in assessing major depressive disorder during inpatient spinal cord injury rehabilitation

Abstract Bombardier CH, Kalpakjian CZ, Graves DE, Dyer JR, Tate DG, Fann JR. Validity of the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 in assessing major depressive disorder during inpatient spinal cord injury rehabilitation. Objective To investigate the validity of the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) depression screening measure in people undergoing acute inpatient rehabilitation for spinal cord injury (SCI). Design We performed a blinded comparison of the PHQ-9 administered by research staff with the major depression module of the Structured Clinical Interview for the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (SCID) conducted by a mental health professional. Setting Inpatient rehabilitation units. Participants Participants (N=142) were patients undergoing acute rehabilitation for traumatic SCI who were at least 18 years of age, English speakers, and without severe cognitive, motor speech, or psychotic disorders. We obtained the SCID on 173 (84%) of 204 eligible patients. The final sample of 142 patients (69%) consisted of those who underwent both assessments within 7 days of each other. Interventions Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures PHQ-9 and SCID major depression module. Results Participants were on average 42.2 years of age, 78.2% men, and 81.7% white, and 66.9% had cervical injuries. The optimal PHQ-9 cutoff (≥11) resulted in 35 positive screens (24.6%). Key indices of criterion validity were as follows: sensitivity, 1.00 (95% confidence interval [CI], .73–1.00); specificity, .84 (95% CI, .76–.89); Youden Index, .84; positive predictive value, .40 (95% CI, .24–.58); and negative predictive value, 1.00 (95% CI, .96–1.00). The area under the receiver operator curve was .92, and κ was .50. Total PHQ-9 scores were inversely correlated with subjective health state and quality of life since SCI. Conclusions The PHQ-9 meets criteria for good diagnostic accuracy compared with a structured diagnostic assessment for major depressive disorder even in the context of inpatient rehabilitation for acute traumatic SCI.
Diagnostic and functional imaging of thymic and mediastinal involvement in lymphoproliferative disorders

Lymphoproliferative disorders of the anterior mediastinum may involve the thymus or lymph nodes as part of disseminated disease or as an isolated site. Imaging is crucial in managing patients with mediastinal lymphoma and is employed in pretreatment assessment, midtreatment evaluation of response, posttreatment restaging, and surveillance during follow-up. For decades, computed tomography (CT) has been the standard imaging technique, although in the last years, positron emission tomography (PET)-CT and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have been introduced. We discuss the role of different imaging techniques in the assessment of patients with mediastinal lymphoma, focusing on novel aspects of PET-CT and diffusion-weighted/MRI.
Pharmacokinetics and efficacy of i.v. and i.p. VM26 chemotherapy in mice bearing krebs II ascitic tumors

The pharmacokinetics and the efficacy of VM26 are studied following i.p. or i.v. administration in mice bearing Krebs II ascitic tumors. The i.p. inoculation of 30.10(6) Krebs II cells in Swiss mice leads to the formation of ascites. The effects of VM26 were dependent upon the route of administration. A 2 mg/kg i.p. single dose induces an equivalent per cent increase of median survival time than a 20 mg/kg i.v. single dose. The survival advantage of i.p. VM26 was found to be related to the pharmacologic benefit of i.p. administration. If local toxicity does not prove to be a major problem, i.p. VM26 may constitute a safe and practical mode of therapy in patients with intraabdominal tumors.
The Transport of Bacteria in Porous Media and Its Significance in Microbial Enhanced Oil Recovery

MEOR is a tertiary recovery process which has only recently been acccepted as a technically feasible alternative to other EOR processes in certain shallow, highly permeable reservoirs. The transport of injected bacteria in the porous media is among the problems which need to be resolved before a MEOR process can be successfully applied in a candidate reservoir. In order to contact trapped oil with active metabolites generated in situ, potential strains of bacteria must be transported deep into the reservoir. The problem of transport of bacteria is linked closely with the success or failure of an MEOR process. This paper presents a bench-scale investigation of bacterial transport in sandpack columns and sandstone cores and its relationship with oil recovery efficiency. Various oil recovery processes utilizing Bacillus subtilis have been attempted.
Polytype Stability and Microstructural Characterization of Silicon Carbide Epitaxial Films Grown on [ {\hbox{11}}\overline{{\hbox{2}}} {\hbox{0}} ]- and [0001]-Oriented Silicon Carbide Substrates

The polytype and surface and defect microstructure of epitaxial layers grown on 4H( $$ {\hbox{11}}\overline{{\hbox{2}}} {\hbox{0}} $$ ), 4H(0001) on-axis, 4H(0001) 8° off-axis, and 6H(0001) on-axis substrates have been investigated. High-resolution x-ray diffraction (XRD) revealed the epitaxial layers on 4H( $$ {\hbox{11}}\overline{{\hbox{2}}} {\hbox{0}} $$ ) and 4H(0001) 8° off-axis to have the 4H-SiC (silicon carbide) polytype, while the 3C-SiC polytype was identified for epitaxial layers on 4H(0001) and 6H(0001) on-axis substrates. Cathodoluminescence (CL), Raman spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) confirmed these results. The epitaxial surface of 4H( $$ {\hbox{11}}\overline{{\hbox{2}}} {\hbox{0}} $$ ) films was specular with a roughness of 0.16-nm root-mean-square (RMS), in contrast to the surfaces of the other epitaxial layer-substrate orientations, which contained curvilinear boundaries, growth pits (∼3 × 104 cm−2), triangular defects >100 μm, and significant step bunching. Molten KOH etching revealed large defect densities within 4H( $$ {\hbox{11}}\overline{{\hbox{2}}} {\hbox{0}} $$ ) films that decreased with film thickness to ∼106 cm−2 at 2.5 μm, while cross-sectional TEM studies showed areas free of defects and an indistinguishable film-substrate interface for 4H( $$ {\hbox{11}}\overline{{\hbox{2}}} {\hbox{0}} $$ ) epitaxial layers.
Fisher Ames and political judgment: Reason, passion, and vehement style in the jay treaty speech

Although Fisher Ames's famous Jay Treaty address has long been recognized as masterpiece of American oratory, the oration has not received critical attention from students of American public address. In reviewing this speech, the author argues that Ames's rhetorical strategy has its philosophical and theoretical roots in Scottish moral sense philosophy and faculty psychology. Using the enlightenment model of faculty psychology, Ames delivered distinct addresses to the understanding and the imagination of his audience, employed numerous strategies recommended in Scottish rhetorics for arousing and calming passions, and proposed a dramatic shift in the ground of political judgment from reason to passion. This approach forced the members of the House of Representatives to confront the “feelings” which determined their position on the Jay Treaty. Because of his vivid style and the importance of passion in the oration, the speech serves as an excellent example of what Hugh Blair called the vehement style of or...
Transient Kluver–Bucy syndrome following complex partial status epilepticus

Abstract The characteristic features of Kluver–Bucy syndrome include hypersexuality, hyperorality, placidity, hypermetamorphosis, visual agnosia, changes in dietary habits, and memory impairment. Human cases have been reported with herpes simplex encephalitis, head injury, Pick’s disease, transtentorial herniation, adrenoleukodystrophy, and Reye’s syndrome, all involving bilateral temporal lobe pathology. We present the case of a patient with no evidence of a structural lesion in the temporal lobes and behavioral changes consistent with Kluver–Bucy syndrome following complex partial status epilepticus.
Optimized code generation for programmable digital signal processors

The authors present a novel compilation model for optimized code generation for programming digital signal processors (PDSPs). The model uses artificial intelligence techniques to yield output code that is comparable (in some cases superior) to that of handwritten assembly codes by DSP experts. Porting the code generator to different PDSPs requires modifying only two processor-dependent modules: a pattern library and a rule base. A prototype code generator has been implemented, targeting a subset of the TMS32020's architecture and instruction set. Several case studies are presented, which demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed approach. >
Chromosome sorting and genomics

Flow Cytogenetics describes the application of flow cytometry and sorting to the analysis of mammalian chromosome classification and purification, respectively. Early publications on flow cytogenetics appeared in 1975 and described single color (univariate) analysis of human and Chinese hamster chromosomes. Since that time enormous progress has been made in the analysis and sorting of chromosomes using two color (bivariate) analysis methods. Applications include high speed sorting for construction of chromosome specific libraries that established feasibility for the human genome program and the construction of chromosome specific fluorescent in-situ hybridization (FISH) probes for research and clinical applications. Additional applications include: quantification of radiation induced chromosome damage, determination of chromosome aneuploidy for somatic cell genetic studies, and detection of numerical and structural aberrations associated with genetic diseases such as Down’s syndrome (Table 1).
Rose-colored answers: Neuropsychological deficits and patient-reported outcomes after stroke

Patient-reported, subjective outcomes are promoted as a standard for ethical, valid studies in many neurological disorders. Such outcomes are considered potentially more sensitive and specific to important therapeutic effects, and may be more linked to disability and disease-related life losses than conventional assessments of impairment (e.g. ability to walk, performance on language tests, serological or radiological indices). Self-report is invaluable to identify social and emotional consequences of brain injury: depression, changes in intimate and family relationships, social role and community participation losses. However, common stroke-related neuropsychological deficits are likely to confound subjective stroke outcome measures. The scientific community focused on stroke-related health outcomes may arrive at significantly underestimated patient reports of stroke-related disability, caused by a failure to adjust for the effect on self-report of spatial neglect, deficits of magnitude estimation, pathologic alteration of self-awareness, and alteration in distributed cortical systems supporting emotional semantics and abstraction.
Outcome of laparoscopic rectopexy versus perineal rectosigmoidectomy for full-thickness rectal prolapse in elderly patients

Background The balance between abdominal and perineal approaches for rectal prolapse is always the higher morbidity but better outcome in the former setting. Therefore, perineal approaches have been preferred for the treatment of full-thickness rectal prolapse (FTRP) in elderly patients. However, laparoscopic rectopexy with or without resection also may be used for elderly patients and may confer the same benefits.
The evolutionary matrix of deliberation according to Halldén

Etude de l'explication evolutionniste de la matrice biologique (Dewey) de la connaissance humaine proposee par S. Hallden. Il s'agit de rendre compte de l'emergence des attitudes propositionnelles de l'agent intelligent et de la possibilite de l'enquete intelligente par la production d'un processus de selection artificielle deliberee
Improving the read range of RFID sensors

Active RFID sensors are increasingly replacing their wired counterparts. However, their need for batteries, high unit costs and vulnerability to harsh environmental conditions (i.e., vibration, shock, temperature) make the passive RFIDs a favored option, even if they are associated with shorter distance detections. In addition to their limited read range, current passive sensor tags are relatively large for tagging small objects, including many commercial products where bar codes are currently the norm. Also, reader systems associated with off-the-shelf passive RFID sensors are comparatively expensive. In this paper, we propose an alternative for both of these problems.
Protein Kinase PKR Plays a Stimulus- and Virus-Dependent Role in Apoptotic Death and Virus Multiplication in Human Cells

The protein kinase regulated by double-stranded RNA (dsRNA), PKR, is implicated in a range of biologic processes, including apoptotic death and interferon antiviral responses, based in part on studies with mouse cells genetically deficient in Pkr. To test the role of the PKR protein in human cells, an RNA interference silencing strategy was used to generate stable HeLa cell lines with less than 2% of the PKR protein (PKR deficient) compared to either parental or control knockdown HeLa lines. Phosphorylation of the subunit of eukaryotic initiation factor 2 on serine 51 was not detectably increased in response to dsRNA in PKR-deficient HeLa cells but was elevated severalfold in PKR-sufficient cells. PKR-deficient cells displayed reduced dsRNAinduced apoptosis compared to PKR-sufficient cell lines, whereas tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-)induced apoptosis was comparable between the HeLa lines. NF-B was activated to a comparable extent in PKR-deficient and PKR-sufficient HeLa cells upon treatment with either dsRNA or TNF-. The antiviral response against vesicular stomatitis virus was reduced in interferon-treated PKR-deficient compared to PKR-sufficient HeLa cells. However, the growth of two human viruses, adenovirus and reovirus, was unaffected by the PKR knockdown. Surprisingly, the yield of mutant adenovirus that fails to encode VAI RNA was not enhanced in PKR-deficient cells, indicating the importance of host factors in addition to PKR in conferring the VAI RNA phenotype.
Managing Process Assets in a Global IT Service Delivery Environment

At IBM, we recognize that our processes are our business. This is especially true in the area of IT Delivery where we have long been focused on the management and reuse of process assets. The current economic climate and advances in technology are rapidly driving IT Delivery to a truly global model. This transition greatly expands the scope of the process assets which need to be managed at a global level to include even the lowest level processes for service delivery. Customers, many of whom are also global, expect consistent quality and reasonable cost, regardless of from where services are delivered. The global management and reuse of IT Delivery process assets at all levels is no longer a desired objective but rather a business imperative. In this paper, we describe a system we are developing to manage, govern, and evolve process assets on a global scale by leveraging expertise of the entire IT Delivery community. We describe the history of the effort, the business drivers, the challenges and solutions we have devised, as well as future work.
Behavioral Toxicology of Volatile Organic Solvents. III. Acute and Subacute Effects of Carbon Disulfide Exposure on the Behavior of Mice

The effects of exposure to carbon disulfide (CS2) were studied on two different behavioral responses in mice. One response was the interruption of a single light beam passing immediately behind a small hole in the wall of the mouse chamber. The other response was the consecutive interruption of each of three radial light beams spaced around a circular runway. Both responses were maintained under an FI 60-sec schedule of milk presentation. Acute, cumulative concentration-effect functions were determined by increasing, stepwise, the concentration of CS2 in the chamber until responding was abolished. Although the level of physical activity required by the two responses was quite different, the acute effects of CS2 on each were quantitatively similar: a concentration of 120 ppm was without effect, 580 ppm decreased responding in most mice, to as low as 0.55 of control levels, 2200 ppm decreased responding in all mice, and 3700 ppm abolished responding. Recovery from these acute effects was slow; following cum...
Changes in Mycobacterium spp. population structure and pyrene mineralization in polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon-amended soils

Abstract The effect of pyrene and phenanthrene contamination on soil Mycobacterium spp. community structure was examined using PCR-amplification of 16S rRNA genes with primers specific for the fast-growing group of Mycobacterium spp. and separation of phylotypes by temperature gradient gel electrophoresis (TGGE). The degradative potential of the soil microbial community was measured over time by mineralization of 14C-pyrene added to the contaminated soils. PCR-TGGE profiles, in combination with band sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of the prominent phylotypes, indicated shifts in the Mycobacterium spp. community during incubation. Reductions in species diversity and enrichments of specific populations were observed in all pyrene- and phenanthrene-treated soils, in contrast to the relatively stable control soil profiles. Mineralization studies indicated the shortest acclimation periods and the highest initial rates of pyrene degradation occurred in soils pre-exposed to phenanthrene, or a mixture of phenanthrene and pyrene, for 14 weeks. Pre-exposure of soil microorganisms to a single dose of pyrene for the same length of time also decreased the acclimation period for the degradation of pyrene. Monthly application of either pyrene or phenanthrene to soils, however, resulted in an increase in pyrene degradative potential 6 weeks after the first pre-exposure, but a decrease in degradative potential 14 weeks after the first pre-exposure. Similar PCR-TGGE profiles were obtained from soils with comparable pyrene mineralization curves or degradative potentials.
DIVERGENT SELECTION, NOT LIFE-HISTORY PLASTICITY VIA FOOD LIMITATION, DRIVES MORPHOLOGICAL DIVERGENCE BETWEEN PREDATOR REGIMES IN GAMBUSIA HUBBSI

We recently tested the hypothesis of ecological speciation in a post-Pleistocene radiation of Bahamas mosquitofish (Gambusia hubbsi) inhabiting inland blue holes (vertical, water-filled caves) on Andros Island, the Bahamas (Langerhans et al. 2007). Combining morphological, molecular, and behavioral data, our results suggested that enhanced premating isolation evolved as a byproduct of differences in body shape between predator regimes, due to assortative mating for body shape. Our results strongly supported the hypothesis of ecological speciation, and parallel results were observed across species within the genus, suggesting a past history of such ecological speciation within the Gambusia lineage. Downhower et al. (in press) question the morphological results described for G. hubbsi in our paper, contending that prior work on life-history variation in G. hubbsi (primarily Downhower et al. 2000, 2002) invalidates our conclusions. Here we show that this contention is based on a mischaracterization of our study, inaccurate quotation of our paper, and misinterpretation of the relevance of their life-history data for morphological results observed in our study. Downhower et al. (in press) suggest—without providing any direct evidence—that differences in body shape between predator regimes in G. hubbsi reflect correlative effects of phenotypic plasticity in life-history traits in response to variation in food availability. To make such a conclusion, we would have to set aside the following facts: (1) morphological differences were observed in adult males, who do not exhibit the life-history traits in question (e.g., number and size of offspring), (2) results matched well-supported a priori predictions of body shape variation based on divergent selection on locomotor performance, (3) results matched empirical results observed in other fish presumably experiencing similar forms of divergent selection between predator regimes, (4) the observed morphological differences are known to influence swimming performance in Gambusia fish and consequently influence endurance and survival with predators, (5) consistent results were observed for males both within and between Gambusia species, (6) any differences in food availability among blue holes are unknown, and (7) available evidence to date indicates that differences in body shape partly reflect genetic divergence, and not solely phenotypic plasticity. The criticisms in Downhower et al. (in press) can be summarized as three arguments: (1) incorrect attribution of evidence for divergent selection between predator regimes in G. hubbsi to several previous
On the Search for the Independent Variable in Cross-Cultural Psychology

In the handbook of Cross-Cultural Psychology (Triandis, 1980), Gustav Jahoda argued that “further theoretical advance in cross-cultural psychology will probably depend to a considerable extent on a more rigorous analysis and operationalization of the concept of ‘culture.’” (Jahoda, 1980, (a) p. 31). I shall argue here that although the term “culture” is indeed conceptually unclear, as Jahoda has asserted, an effort to enhance its conceptual clarity is not needed; indeed it would be fruitless. The ambiguity of “culture” is not what is impeding theoretical advance.
Considering Temporal Externalities & Democratic Theory in Housing Policy

On March 18, 2010, Congressman Barney Frank introduced the Housing Preservation and Tenant Protection Act of 2010. The aim of the Bill, Frank noted, was to protect communities from the loss of affordable rental housing units across the country. While the Frank bill and other efforts have sought to slow or stop the conversion of existing units, both non profits and municipal and state governments have been focused in recent decades on fixing this problem for new units of subsidized housing. Specifically, a growing number of new programs aimed at producing new housing require that such housing is affordable "in perpetuity" (or 99 years). These programs are premised on the notion that permanent affordability is preferable both in terms of resident security and a more efficient use of scarce public investments. This paper focuses on an aspect of these programs which has received insufficient consideration; namely how these program mandates will actually play out over the long term. In particular, I seek to address the question of how to properly address the inevitable request by some owner or project sponsor to remove a building from the permanent affordability restrictions. How do and how should the rules governing such permanently affordable projects accommodate the need for changes in income mix for residents, or change in use, or changed economics for the owner (whether non-profit or private) or the government administrators? Should the owners or local governments have sole control over when permanently affordable projects can transition to market rate housing or to commercial uses or should those decisions be subject to oversight, whether judicial or otherwise? The answers to such questions properly involve considerations of legal doctrine, housing policy and intergenerational rights and ethics.
Conversion of Non-Contact LIDAR Velocity Measurements to Spatial Markings and Indication Signals for Commercial Train Systems

The primary purpose of this study is to develop a foot pulse electrical circuit that can be integrated into a LIDAR system used for measuring track speed and curvature. LIght Detection And Ranging (LIDAR) technology is used in a wide variety of applications because it is capable of reliably producing accurate and precise measurements. While application of LIDAR technology is vast, this particular study focuses on its ability to accurately measure velocity and track geometry of rail tracks. A research team at Virginia Tech (VT) has already developed, tested, and proven the capability of LIDAR technology to be used for railway applications [1,2]. Their analysis shows that a railcar-mounted LIDAR system can accurately measure track geometry, centerline velocity, car body dynamics, and several other useful parameters. While this system is reliable and multifunctional, the prototype used for testing is not easily upgraded to include additional features without augmenting the software currently used to analyze and record the LIDAR signal. However, the prototype LIDAR system lacks several capabilities that are desirable for integrating the system with typical commercial systems on trains. One signal that commercial train systems typically have, which the LIDAR prototype does not have, is a foot pulse. The foot pulse is usually generated by a tachometer on the wheel of the train and aims to send out a pulse every time the train has travelled a foot. This signal is used for multiple other systems on the train, so in order to simplify integration of the developed LIDAR prototype into commercial train systems, the prototype was upgraded to include additional features. Other than the foot pulse, the upgrade also included acceleration detection, direction indication, and laser-enable signals to have a more complete prototype. The upgrade was executed using an external microcontroller and accelerometer to provide proof of concept while leaving the current LIDAR prototype’s software (and already proven capabilities) untouched. This paper focuses on using the information generated by the current LIDAR system to implement the additional features in an inexpensive, reliable, and easily retrofittable manner.Copyright © 2015 by ASME
Shape memory ionomers

This review is focused on the use of ionomers in shape memory polymers. Ionomers are polymers that contain less than ∼15% ionic groups. The incompatibility between the ion-pairs and the polymer backbone drives microphase separation producing dispersed ionic aggregates, which can physically crosslink the polymer. Shape memory polymers are responsive materials that can be deformed to program a temporary shape and then recovered on application of an external stimulus. Through the review of the main types of ionomers used in shape memory polymers, polyurethanes and polyester ionomers, polyolefin and polyaromatic ionomers, and perfluorosulfonic acid ionomers (i.e., Nafion®) it will be shown that ionomers can produce robust thermoplastic shape memory polymers and in many cases impart unique properties which allow advanced shape memory materials to be obtained including antibacterial, high temperature, and multishape memory polymers. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2016, 54, 1389–1396
Activation of soluble guanylyl cyclase by four-coordinate metalloporphyrins: evidence for a role for porphyrin conformation.

Four-coordinate metalloporphyrins activate soluble guanylyl cyclase. Ni I I PPIX and Cu I I PPIX are high affinity activators, with activation constants of 24 and 17 nM, respectively. Both metalloporphyrins remain stably bound to the enzyme, enabling spectroscopic characterization of the Ni(II)- and Cu(II)-reconstituted protein. Electronic absorption and resonance Raman spectroscopy reveal that Ni I I PPIX remains four coordinate when bound to soluble guanylyl cyclase. Analysis of the vibrational frequencies of the Ni(II)-reconstituted enzyme suggests that the protein imposes a constraining force on the porphyrin, favoring a planar conformation. Spectroscopic data for the Cu(II)-substituted protein are also consistent with four coordination. The intensification of the vibrational modes of the peripheral vinyl groups in both Ni(II)-and Cu(II)-reconstituted soluble guanylyl cyclase are consistent with a substantial influence of the protein on the porphyrin environment. Together these data support a model where activation of soluble guanylyl cyclase correlates with the absence of a metal-to-proximal histidine bond and with decreased conformational freedom for the tetrapyrrole in the activated state.
A Boulder Approach to Estimating Flash-Flood Peaks

Channel boulders in normally dry arroyos of the Anza Borrego Desert were used to estimate the characteristics of flash-floods associated with their transport. An algorithm was developed to assess the flow conditions of velocity, depth, and discharge present at the boulders9 threshold of motion. This approach should be applicable to flood hazard studies in similar ungauged ephemeral streams. The methods presented here are useful in applications such as geomorphic and hydrologic reconnaissance surveys, environmental impact statements, and flood hazard analysis.
Socioeconomic Disparities in Cataract Prevalence, Characteristics, and Management.

ABSTRACTPurpose: To review the current literature on socioeconomic disparities relationship with cataract prevalence, characteristics, and management. Summary: Cataracts are an important cause of preventable visual impairment in both the developing and industrialized world. Cataract surgery is a highly effective operation with an excellent risk profile. Furthermore, cataract surgery has been shown to have significant positive functional, social, and economic implications for patients. Several medical conditions have been shown to have correlation with socioeconomic factors and cataract is among several forms of visual impairment that demonstrate this relationship. Disparities in prevalence, clinical characteristics, and management are documented in the ophthalmic literature. A better understanding of these socioeconomic factors and their clinical relevance is critical to alleviating the burden of cataract-related visual impairment in an aging population.
Community concern for total health care.

Health care and its delivery are in the forefront of present-day domestic issues in the country—but total concern of health in the community faces four major hurdles. The author elaborates on four of these and sets forth some of the ingredients needed for formulating a national health policy.
Osteoporosis: assessment by quantitative computed tomography

SUMMARY The results presented in this article indicate that quantitative computed tomography provides a reliable means of evaluating and monitoring the many forms of osteoporosis and its various treatments. The greatest advantages of spinal QCT for noninvasive bone mineral measurement are its high precision, the high sensitivity of the vertebral spongiosa measurement site, and the potential for widespread application.
On discrete models of fractal dimension to explore the complexity of discrete dynamical systems

A fractal structure is a countable family of coverings which displays accurate information about the irregularities that a set presents when being explored with enough level of detail. It is worth noting that fractal structures become especially appropriate to provide new definitions of fractal dimension, which constitutes a valuable measure to test for chaos in dynamical systems. In this paper, we explore several approaches to calculate the fractal dimension of a subset with respect to a fractal structure. These models generalize the classical box dimension in the context of Euclidean subspaces from a discrete viewpoint. To illustrate the flexibility of the new models, we calculate the fractal dimension of a family of self-affine sets associated with certain discrete dynamical systems.
Stratified locality-sensitive hashing for accelerated physiological time series retrieval

We introduce stratified locality-sensitive hashing (SLSH) for retrieving similar physiological waveform time series. SLSH further accelerates the sublinear retrieval time obtained by the standard locality-sensitive hashing (LSH) method. The standard family of locality-sensitive hash functions is limited to provide only a single perspective on the data due to its one-to-one relationship to a distinct distance function for measuring similarity. SLSH incorporates multiple locality-sensitive hash families with various distance functions enabling it to examine the data with more diverse and refined perspectives. We provide the procedures of SLSH with locality-sensitive hash families for the l 1 and the cosine distances, and compare its performance to the standard LSH on an arterial blood pressure time series data extracted from the physiological waveform repository of the MIMIC2 database. The time to retrieve five most similar waveforms by SLSH is 14 times faster than the linear search and 1.7 times faster than the standard LSH when we allow 5% decrease in accuracy as a trade-off.
The Prevalence and Correlates of Involvement in the Criminal Justice System Among Youth on the Autism Spectrum.

This study examined the prevalence and correlates of involvement in the criminal justice system among a nationally representative sample of youth with autism. We examined whether youth had been stopped and questioned by police or arrested at 14–15 years old and 21–22 years old. By age 21, approximately 20% of youth with autism had been stopped and questioned by police and nearly 5% had been arrested. Female youth were less likely to be involved in the criminal justice system, whereas youth displaying externalizing behaviors were more likely to be involved in the criminal justice system. Further research is needed to investigate factors associated with involvement in the criminal justice system among youth with autism and to implement prevention strategies.
Misinformation is prevalent in psoriasis-related YouTube videos.

Author(s): Qi, J; Trang, T; Doong, J; Kang, S; Chien, A.L | Abstract: Background Psoriasis patients seek information online, but little is known about their interaction with YouTube. We examined the quality of content in psoriasis-related YouTube videos and investigated their interactions with viewers.Methods YouTube was searched using the term “psoriasis.” Relevant videos in English were independently categorized by two reviewers as useful, misleading, or patient view (regarding experience with psoriasis). Disagreements were settled by a third reviewer. Videos were rated on a Global Quality Scale (GQS) (1=poor, 5=excellent).Results According to our reviewers, 17% of the 47 videos were useful, 21% were misleading, and 62% represented patient views. Mean GQS scores were 4.2 ± 1.3 for useful videos, 1.7 ± 0.7 for misleading videos, and 2.2 ± 1.1 for patient view videos (pl0.001). Video views per day did not differ among the categories (p=0.65), whereas useful videos had fewest “Likes” (useful: 31 ± 55, 33 misleading: 151 ± 218, patient views: 165 ± 325, p=0.06) and comments (useful: 9.8 ± 18.3, misleading: 64.1 ± 89.7, 124.9 ± 34 199.4, p=0.009).Conclusions Useful videos were highest in quality but had similar viewership as misleading and patient view videos, with lower popularity and engagement of users compared to other categories. Physicians and psoriasis patients should be aware of this pattern when pproaching YouTube as a resource.
SP0098 For Whom Are Joint Replacements Most Successful? An Overview of The Current Literature

Total hip and knee replacements are are some of modern medicine9s biggest success stories. They are, in general, extremely successful procedures, providing patients witih end stage arthritis significant improvements in pain, function and qualify of life. However, these procedures are not universal panaceas; in fact, it is estimated that up to 25% of total knee replacement patients may have residual chronic pain years after their original surgery. As aging babyboomers-who expect to continue an active lifestyle at higher rates than previous generations-increase the demand for joint replacements, it will become even more important to understand the risks and benefits of arthroplasty. This lecture will discuss outcomes of hip and knee replacements, with an emphasis on which patients are most likely to derive benefit. Disclosure of Interest L. Mandl Grant/research support from: Boehringher-Ingelheim
Parallel Signal Processing For Optical Satellite Detection

An optical satellite detection system can provide a high scan coverage rate if the telescope is continuously scanning the sky, rather than stepping and staring. Detection of satellites with such a system requires that the detection processor have a high throughput rate to keep up with the telescope scan. The IMC Signal Processor, described in this paper, has been developed to do this. The high throughput rate has been achieved by dividing the focal plane imaging into five fields-of-view, processing these fields-of-view in a parallel signal processing architecture, and detecting satellites on a several line basis rather than waiting for frame-to-frame comparisons. Although this processor has been developed for use with a particular telescope, the concepts developed here can be applied to a more general detection problem. The narrow (18.3 arc minute) width of the scan will still result in a high scan coverage rate (300 square degrees per hour), and will hopefully detect geo-synchronous satellites with magnitudes as dim as 16-18 My while maintaining a low (4.8 * 10-3) false alarm per second rate. The signal processing considerations and processor algorithms are discussed. The processor hardware is described, recent laboratory results given, and future plans described.© (1982) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.