cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A particle telescope system for nuclear reaction identification

Abstract A particle telescope system is described, consisting of a thin (28 μm) d E d x and a thick (300 μm) E silicon detector operating in coincidence mode, with relatively high solid angle of acceptance and very low background characteristics. This apparatus is capable of determining both the energy and identity of incident charged particle species and therefore of identifying nuclear processes. Additional advantages of this system are that it is capable of operating in corrosive environments and of reducing the charged particle background to as low as one count per week. The system calibration was carried out for MeV energy protons, 4He and β particles. Nuclear reactions were produced through high energy (190 keV) deuterium ion implantation of metallic foils and thin films. The particle telescope system was employed to measure the energy and determine the species of charged particles produced by nuclear reactions occurring within the films and foils.
Effects of estrogen replacement on plasma lipoproteins and apolipoproteins in postmenopausal, dyslipidemic women.

The effects of oral estrogen replacement (ethinyl estradiol 0.02 mg/d) on plasma triglyceride, total cholesterol, very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and apolipoprotein (apo) A-I and B levels and LDL particle size were assessed in 20 postmenopausal women with a previous hysterectomy and various forms of dyslipidemia (LDL cholesterol > or = 4.14 mmol/L [160 mg/dL] and/or HDL cholesterol < or = 1.03 mmol/L [40 mg/dL]). All subjects were studied while on a standard cholesterol-lowering diet, and were sampled in the fasting state before beginning estrogen therapy and after a mean of 13 weeks of estrogen therapy. Lipids were measured by standardized enzymatic techniques, apos were measured by enzyme-linked immunoassays, and LDL particle size was measured by gradient gel electrophoresis. Mean values for plasma lipid parameters (mmol/L) at baseline and during estrogen replacement were as follows: triglyceride, 2.11 and 2.75 (30% increase); total cholesterol, 7.45 and 6.52 (13% decrease); VLDL cholesterol, 1.09 and 1.22 (12% increase); LDL cholesterol, 5.09 and 3.70 (27% decrease); and HDL cholesterol, 1.27 and 1.58 (24% increase). Mean values for apo A-I were 163 and 254 mg/dL (56% increase), and for apo B they were 170 and 148 mg/dL (13% decrease). The LDL particle score was 4.09 and 4.52 (11% smaller). Changes in all parameters were statistically significant (P = .05) except for VLDL cholesterol. These data indicate that estrogen replacement is effective in decreasing LDL cholesterol and apo B concentrations and increasing HDL cholesterol and apo A-I concentrations in dyslipidemic postmenopausal women, but it should not be used in patients with baseline fasting triglyceride levels higher than 2.82 mmol/L (250 mg/dL) unless it is accompanied by a progestin. Our data indicate that this form of estrogen replacement could lower the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD) by more than 50% in these women, based on favorable alterations in plasma lipoproteins.
Hibonite, Ca2/Al, Ti/24O38, from the Leoville and Allende chondritic meteorites.

Hibonite was discovered in light-colored, Ca-Al-Ti-rich and Si-Fe-poor, achondritic inclusions of the Leoville and Allende HL-group chondrites. Two varieties of hibonite occur: one emits a bright red-orange luminescence under electron bombardment and has high amounts of Al2O3 (87.7; 87.9) and low amounts of MgO (0.65; 0.8) and TiO2 (0.68; 0.8). The other emits a bright blue luminescence and is low in Al2O3 (78.7; 79.2) and high in MgO (3.3; 3.7) and TiO2 (6.5; 7.9) (in wt. %). The oxide CaO is about the same in both varieties. It is suggested that the change in the color of the visible luminescence results from changes in composition. The origin of hibonite which occurs in complex mineral assemblages together with anorthite, gelhenite, wollastonite, aluminous diopside, andradite, Ca-pyroxene, perovskite, spinel, taenite, chromite, and pentlandite, and in close proximity to nodules containing calcite, whewellite, forsterite and many of the aforementioned phases, is discussed. The proposition that hibonite and associated phases originated by contact metamorphism and metasomatism of calcite-dolomite bearing assemblages cannot, at this time, be completely ruled out.
Observations on the teeth of the mountain gorilla (Gorilla gorilla beringei)

Measurements of a sample of mountain gorilla (Gorilla gorilla beringei) teeth are presented: when compared with other Gorilla series, the dimensions of the maxillary teeth fall in the upper end of the observed range for the genus. All of the upper teeth except the canine show a greater sex difference in the bucco-lingual diameter than in the mesio-distal dimension. This is also true for the other hominoids which have been studied, man, the chimpanzee, and the orang-utan, but to a lesser degree in man and the chimpanzee.
Immunotoxic effects of mercuric compounds on human lymphocytes and monocytes. IV. Alterations in cellular glutathione content.

AbstractThe major goal of this investigation was to determine if the sensitivity of lymphocytes and monocytes to mercury (Hg++) was related to intracellular glutathione2 (GSH) levels and the thiol redox status [GSH/glutathione disulfide (GSSG)]. To isolate cells based upon their GSH content, T and B-cells were stained with monochlorobimane (MCB) and separated into high and low fluorescent groups by FACS analysis. Cells with high GSH fluorescence were found to be resistant to both the cytotoxic and immunotoxic effects of HgCl2 as evidenced by cell viability and their responsiveness to mitogen, respectively. In contrast, cells with low levels of GSH were extremely sensitive to mercury. To further examine the relationship between GSH level and mercury exposure, T-cells, B-cells and monocytes were treated with different doses of HgCl2 for 12 hrs. All cells exhibited a dose-dependent decrease in GSH content with a concomitant reduction in GSSG levels. However, the GSH/GSSG ratio in these cells remained constan...
The ocular motor system.

Recent advances in ocular motor neurophysiology are reviewed with emphasis on brainstem control of horizontal saccadic and pursuit eye movements. Certain aspects of the control of vertical gaze and the role of the cerebellum and medial longitudinal fasciculus in normal and pathological states are also discussed. Current nomenclature and concepts are clarified so that they may be applied to the understanding of clinical ocular motor phenomenology.
Escherichia,coli nicotinamide adenine nucleotide transhydrogenase driven by aerobic oxidation and its enhancement by an energy transfer factor from rat-liver mitochondria☆

Abstract The aerobic and anaerobic energy linked transhydrogenase reactions have been demonstrated in membrane preparations from E. , coli . The aerobic transhydrogenase activity could be enhanced by an energy transfer factor prepared from rat-liver mitochondria. These reactions were sensitive to 4,5,6,7-tetrachloro-2-trifluoromethylbenzimidazole, an uncoupler of oxidative phosphorylation.
Sensitivity improvement in proton-detected two-dimensional heteronuclear correlation NMR spectroscopy

Abstract The sensitivity of proton-detected two-dimensional heteronuclear correlation NMR spectroscopy can be increased by as much as a factor of √2 relative to that of the conventional methods, for heteronuclei with a single attached proton. The enhanced sensitivity is obtained by refocusing and detecting two orthogonal in-phase proton magnetization components, rather than the single component recorded conventionally. The two magnetization components are deconvoluted to produce two pure-phase spectra that are added together to produce a spectrum with an enhanced signal-to-noise ratio. Methods for improving the sensitivity of the main classes of heteronuclear correlation experiments are presented and the effect of relaxation during the new experiments on the sensitivity enhancement is discussed. The new methods are demonstrated by comparing conventional and sensitivity-enhanced 1H-15N heteronuclear correlation spectra of bovine pancreatic trypsin inhibitor at 15N natural abundance.
Application of RQL Coal Combustor Technology to Large Utility Gas Turbines

This paper describes the application of Allison’s rich-quench-lean (RQL) coal combustor technology to large utility gas turbines in the 100 MWe+ class. The RQL coal combustor technology was first applied to coal derived fuels in the 1970s and has been under development since 1986 as part of a Department of Energy (DOE)-sponsored heat engine program aimed at proof of concept testing of coal-fired gas turbine technology. The 5 MWe proof of concept engine/coal combustion system was first tested on coal water slurry (CWS); it is now being prepared for testing on dry pulverized coal. A design concept to adapt the RQL coal combustor technology developed under the DOE program to large utility-sized gas turbines has been proposed for a Clean Coal V program. The engine and combustion system modifications required for application to coal-fueled combined cycle power plants using 100 MWe+ gas turbines are described. Estimates for emissions and cycle performance are given. Included are comparisons with a conventional pulverized coal plant that illustrates the advantages of incorporating a gas turbine on cycle efficiency and emission rate.Copyright © 1993 by ASME
Effect of Inlet Air Temperature on Auto-Ignition of Fuels with Different Cetane Number and Volatility

This paper investigates the effect of air inlet temperature on the auto-ignition of fuels that have different CN and volatility in a single cylinder diesel engine. The inlet air temperature is varied over a range of 30°C to 110°C. The fuels used are ultra-low-sulfur-diesel (ULSD), JP-8 (two blends with CN 44.1 & 31) and F-T SPK. Detailed analysis is made of the rate of heat release during the ignition delay period, to determine the effect of fuel volatility and CN on the auto-ignition process. A STAR-CD CFD model is applied to simulate the spray behavior and gain more insight into the processes that immediately follow the fuel injection including evaporation, start of exothermic reactions and the early stages of combustion. The mole fractions of different species are determined during the ignition delay period and their contribution in the auto-ignition process is examined. Arrhenius plots are developed to calculate the global activation energy for the auto-ignition reactions of these fuels. Correlations are developed for the ID and the mean air temperature and pressure.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Experiences in a 3G network: interplay between the wireless channel and applications

We present an experimental characterization of the physical and MAC layers in CDMA 1xEV-DO and their impact on transport layer performance. The 1xEV-DO network is currently the fastest mobile broadband cellular network, offering data rates of up to 3.1 Mbps for both stationary and mobile users. These rates are achieved by using novel capacity enhancement techniques at the lower layers. Specifically, 1xEV-DO incorporates rapid channel rate adaptation in response to signal conditions, and opportunistic scheduling to exploit channel fluctuations. Although shown to perform well in isolation, there is no comprehensive literature that examines the impact of these features on transport layer and application performance in real networks.We take the first step in addressing this issue through a large set of experiments conducted on a commercial 1xEV-DO network. Our evaluation includes both stationary and mobile scenarios wherein we transferred data using four popular transport protocols: TCPReno, TCP-Vegas, TCP-Westwood, and TCP-Cubic, and logged detailed measurements about wireless channel level characteristics as well as transport layer performance. We analyzed data from several days of experiments and inferred the properties of the physical, MAC and transport layers, as well as potential interactions between them. We find that the wireless channel data rate shows significant variability over long time scales on the order of hours, but retains high memory and predictability over small time scales on the order of milliseconds. We also find that loss-based TCP variants are largely unaffected by channel variations due to the presence of large buffers, and hence able to achieve in excess of 80% of the system capacity.
Coronal Haemostatic Suture for Partial Nephrectomy

Despite several new methods and techniques devised to establish haemostasis following partial nephrectomy, the most recent of which is a new dissecting instrument (Goldwasswer et al., 1986), one still encounters cases where the recommended techniques fail to control the bleeding. We found the following technique to be very effective in a patient in whom conventional methods—including the standard transverse sutures which tore through the capsule and the renal parenchyma—failed to control the bleeding.
Effects of arm and body position when measuring blood pressure in young healthy males and females

Controversy exists in the clinical setting as to whether blood pressure (BP) should be taken on only the left arm. It is also not known whether inter-arm BP differences exist when subjects are in varying static body positions. The purpose of this study was to examine whether BP differences exist between right and left arms when male or female subjects were in different static body positions. Young (18-29 years old), healthy, athletic, male (n = 10) and female (n = 10) subjects were used to obtain BP using standard auscultation in the right and left arms in the following different body positions: standing, sitting, and supine. Respiratory rate was set at 17-23 bpm for each subject and heart rate was monitored using a pulse transducer. Neither body position nor arm used influenced systolic BP in males and females, and the diastolic pressure in females (p > 0.05). However, in males, the diastolic BP in standing position was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than in supine position both in the right arm (85 ± 3.3 mmHg vs. 74 ± 2.0 mmHg) and in the left arm (88 ± 3.0 mmHg vs.75 ± 2.0 mmHg). Our findings suggest that young, healthy, and athletic adults do not experience inter-arm BP differences and that the effect of body position is sex specific.
The education of a provincial pharmacist.

When I selected as the title of this lecture, “The Education of a Provincial Pharmacist,” I was trying to reconcile my self-concept with the international focus of this award. I have concentrated my career on efforts to advance hospital and health-system pharmacy in one country, the United
Spectral reflectance of Thalassia testudinum with varying depths

Seagrasses are an important component in the marine ecosystem, and also a vulnerable resource subject to environmental change. Satellite and airborne remote sensing has been applied in monitoring and mapping seagrasses. One research issue from a remote sensing perspective is the spectral impact of water column depths since seagrasses normally grow in the optically shallow waters. The objective of this hyperspectral sensing study is to investigate the spectral characteristics of Thalassia testudinum at different water depths. The results indicated a close association between the water depths and reflectance, and a much stronger correlation between the depths and derivative spectra.
Peer reputation in middle childhood as a predictor of adaptation in adolescence: a seven-year follow-up.

This investigation examines the predictive significance of peer reputation in elementary school for the quality of adaptation in adolescence. A normative sample (N = 207) of third to sixth graders was administered the Revised Class Play (RCP). Each received 3 scores (Sociability-Leadership, Aggression-Disruption, and Sensitivity-Isolation). 7 years later, 88% of these children and their parents participated in a questionnaire follow-up study utilizing a broad range of adolescent outcome measures (e.g., social and athletic competence, academic performance, behavioral symptoms, well-being). The 3 RCP scores were significantly related to both adolescent competence and psychopathology, supporting the predictive validity of the RCP as well as the continuity of general adaptation. Each dimension of peer reputation had a different pattern of prediction depending on the outcome criteria under consideration, suggesting the importance of a multidimensional approach to peer reputation. Positive peer reputation proved to be an important predictor of later adjustment. Sex differences were examined; results suggested somewhat different patterns of prediction for boys and girls, especially for the sensitive-isolated dimension.
BODIPY–Tetrazine Derivatives as Superbright Bioorthogonal Turn‐on Probes

The fastest and the brightest: A new design that intimately connects tetrazine to a BODIPY fluorophore enables exceptionally efficient energy transfer and quenching. Upon reaction of the tetrazine, the brightness of the fluorophore increases more than a thousand-fold, a fluorogenic activation up to two orders of magnitude greater than previously described.
The Flame Retardants, Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers, Are Pregnane X Receptor Activators

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are used as flame retardants and are universally present in the environment. An exponential increase in PBDE concentrations in the U.S. population have been reported over the last 3 decades. PBDEs 47 (tetraBDE) and 99 (pentaBDE) are the most commonly detected PBDE congeners in the environment and in human samples. PBDE209 (decaBDE) is the only remaining PBDE flame retardant commercially manufactured in the United States. Several PBDEs are known to induce cyp3a in rats, but the mechanism of induction remains unclear. The goal of this study was to clarify the mechanism by which PBDE congeners induce cyp3a. Treatment of C57BL6 mice with PBDEs 47, 99, and 209 induced gene expressions of cyp3a11 and 2b10, but not cyp1a1/2. Because the first two genes are known target genes of pregnane X receptor (PXR), a ligand-activated transcription factor in the nuclear hormone receptor superfamily, we hypothesized that PBDE congeners are PXR activators. Using reporter gene luciferase assays, the present data show that PBDEs 47, 99, and 209 activated PXR and its human counterpart, steroid X receptor, but not aryl hydrocarbon receptor. Furthermore, induction of cyp3a11 and 2b10 by PBDEs 47, 99, and 209 was markedly suppressed in PXR-knockout mice, indicating that PBDE congeners activate PXR in vivo. In summary, our study provides the first evidence that PBDEs are activators for xenobiotic nuclear receptor.
Incorporating opportunity costs in strategic management research: The value of diversification and payout as opportunities forgone when reinvesting in the firm:

This article explores the theoretical and empirical implications of incorporating forgone opportunities in strategic management research. Drawing on the well-studied literature examining whether firms should reinvest in focused businesses or pursue alternatives of diversifying and/or paying out excess cash to shareholders, hypotheses are developed for when diversification and payout policy, as the opportunity costs of reinvesting in the firm’s original businesses, will present firms with higher and lower opportunity costs. Empirical results suggest that the value of reinvestment in existing businesses is higher for firms facing lower opportunity costs of forgoing other alternatives (e.g. diversification and paying out) than for firms that have much higher opportunity costs of forgoing these same alternatives. Implications for incorporating opportunity costs into the diversification literature and the broader strategic management literature are also explored.
Dissimilatory Reduction of Fe(III) and Other Electron Acceptors by a Thermus Isolate

A thermophilic bacterium that can use O2, NO3-, Fe(III), and S0 as terminal electron acceptors for growth was isolated from groundwater sampled at a 3.2-km depth in a South African gold mine. This organism, designated SA-01, clustered most closely with members of the genus Thermus, as determined by 16S rRNA gene (rDNA) sequence analysis. The 16S rDNA sequence of SA-01 was >98% similar to that of Thermus strain NMX2 A.1, which was previously isolated by other investigators from a thermal spring in New Mexico. Strain NMX2 A.1 was also able to reduce Fe(III) and other electron acceptors. Neither SA-01 nor NMX2 A.1 grew fermentatively, i.e., addition of an external electron acceptor was required for anaerobic growth. Thermus strain SA-01 reduced soluble Fe(III) complexed with citrate or nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA); however, it could reduce only relatively small quantities (0.5 mM) of hydrous ferric oxide except when the humic acid analog 2,6-anthraquinone disulfonate was added as an electron shuttle, in which case 10 mM Fe(III) was reduced. Fe(III)-NTA was reduced quantitatively to Fe(II); reduction of Fe(III)-NTA was coupled to the oxidation of lactate and supported growth through three consecutive transfers. Suspensions of Thermus strain SA-01 cells also reduced Mn(IV), Co(III)-EDTA, Cr(VI), and U(VI). Mn(IV)-oxide was reduced in the presence of either lactate or H2. Both strains were also able to mineralize NTA to CO2 and to couple its oxidation to Fe(III) reduction and growth. The optimum temperature for growth and Fe(III) reduction by Thermus strains SA-01 and NMX2 A.1 is approximately 65 degrees C; their optimum pH is 6.5 to 7.0. This is the first report of a Thermus sp. being able to couple the oxidation of organic compounds to the reduction of Fe, Mn, or S.
Targeted DNA degradation using a CRISPR device stably carried in the host genome

Once an engineered organism completes its task, it is useful to degrade the associated DNA to reduce environmental release and protect intellectual property. Here we present a genetically encoded device (DNAi) that responds to a transcriptional input and degrades user-defined DNA. This enables engineered regions to be obscured when the cell enters a new environment. DNAi is based on type-IE CRISPR biochemistry and a synthetic CRISPR array defines the DNA target(s). When the input is on, plasmid DNA is degraded 10(8)-fold. When the genome is targeted, this causes cell death, reducing viable cells by a factor of 10(8). Further, the CRISPR nuclease can direct degradation to specific genomic regions (for example, engineered or inserted DNA), which could be used to complicate recovery and sequencing efforts. DNAi can be stably carried in an engineered organism, with no impact on cell growth, plasmid stability or DNAi inducibility even after passaging for >2 months.
Characteristic size and mass of galaxies in the Bose-Einstein condensate dark matter model

Abstract We study the characteristic length scale of galactic halos in the Bose–Einstein condensate (or scalar field) dark matter model. Considering the evolution of the density perturbation we show that the average background matter density determines the quantum Jeans mass and hence the spatial size of galaxies at a given epoch. In this model the minimum size of galaxies increases while the minimum mass of the galaxies decreases as the universe expands. The observed values of the mass and the size of the dwarf galaxies are successfully reproduced with the dark matter particle mass m ≃ 5 × 10 − 22 eV . The minimum size is about 6 × 10 − 3 m / H λ c and the typical rotation velocity of the dwarf galaxies is O ( H / m ) c , where H is the Hubble parameter and λ c is the Compton wave length of the particle. We also suggest that ultra compact dwarf galaxies are the remnants of the dwarf galaxies formed in the early universe.
A note on the julia set of polynomials

(1989). A note on the julia set of polynomials. Complex Variables, Theory and Application: An International Journal: Vol. 12, No. 1-4, pp. 83-85.
The Art of Friendship

This paper will analyze certain claims and arguments in Tony O’Connor’s “O Friend, Where Art Thou?: Derridean Deconstruction and Friendship.” The essay will then attempt to show that its author’s recent work, Kindness and the Good Society: Connections of the Heart, can provide some of the desired empirical evidence to supplement Derrida’s deconstructive critique of traditional concepts of friendship. In doing so, the paper will extend and deepen a key notion from the kindness book, that of aesthetic humanism. Drawing on the work of Maurice Merleau-Ponty, on whom Tony O’Connor has also written well, the essay will conclude by outlining the tasks of an ontology of friendship as a means of countering certain of Derrida’s deconstructive criticisms.
A Joint SW/HW Approach for Reducing Register File Vulnerability

The Register File (RF) is a particularly vulnerable component within processor core and at the same time a hotspot with high power density. To reduce RF vulnerability, conventional HW-only approaches such as Error Correction Codes (ECCs) or modular redundancies are not suitable due to their significant power overhead. Conversely, SW-only approaches either have limited improvement on RF reliability or require considerable performance overhead. As a result, new approaches are needed that reduce RF vulnerability with minimal power and performance overhead. This article introduces Application-guided Reliability-enhanced Register file Architecture (ARRA), a novel approach to reduce RF vulnerability of embedded processors. Taking advantage of uneven register utilization, ARRA mirrors, guided by a SW instrumentation, frequently used active registers into passive registers. ARRA is particularly suitable for control applications, as they have a high reliability demand with fairly low (uneven) RF utilization. ARRA is a cross-layer joint HWsSW approach based on an ARRA-extended RF microarchitecture, an ISA extension, as well as static binary analysis and instrumentation. We evaluate ARRA benefits using an ARRA-enhanced Blackfin processor executing a set of DSPBench and MiBench benchmarks. We quantify the benefits using RF Vulnerability Factor (RFVF) and Mean Work To Failure (MWTF). ARRA significantly reduces RFVF from 35p to 6.9p in cost of 0.5p performance lost for control applications. With ARRA’s register mirroring, it can also correct Multiple Bit Upsets (MBUs) errors, achieving an 8x increase in MWTF. Compared to a partially ECC-protected RF approach, ARRA demonstrates higher efficiency by achieving comparable vulnerability reduction at much lower power consumption.
Congruence Classes Modulo a Polynomial: Simple Field Extensions

In Chapter I-7 we discovered the rings ℤ n by looking at congruence classes of integers modulo n. For n a prime, ℤ n turned out to be a field.
Fibroblast Growth Factor-23 and Frailty in Elderly Community-Dwelling Individuals: The Cardiovascular Health Study.

Objectives To evaluate whether fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF-23) is related to frailty and to characterize the nature of their joint association with mortality. Design Cross-sectional analysis for frailty and longitudinal cohort analysis for mortality. Setting Cardiovascular Health Study. Participants Community-dwelling individuals (N = 2,977; mean age 77.9 ± 4.7, 40% male, 83% white). Measurements The predictor was serum FGF-23 concentration (C-terminal enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay), and the outcomes were frailty status (determined according to frailty phenotype criteria of weight loss, weakness, exhaustion, slowness, and low physical activity) and mortality. Multinomial logistic regression was used to assess the cross-sectional association between FGF-23 and frailty and prefrailty, adjusting for demographic characteristics, cardiovascular disease and risk factors, and kidney markers. Proportional hazards Cox proportional hazards regression was used to assess the association between FGF-23, frailty, and all-cause mortality. Results Mean estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was 64 ± 17 mL/min per 1.73 m2. Median FGF-23 was 70.3 RU/mL (interquartile range 53.4–99.2); 52% were prefrail, and 13% were frail. After multivariate adjustment, each doubling in FGF-23 concentration was associated with 38% (95% confidence interval (CI) = 17–62%) higher odds of frailty than of nonfrailty and 16% (95% CI = 3–30%) higher odds of prefrailty. FGF-23 (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.16, 95% CI = 1.10–1.23) and frailty (HR = 1.82, 95% CI = 1.57–2.12) were independently associated with mortality, but neither association was meaningfully attenuated when adjusted for the other. Conclusion In a large cohort of older adults, higher FGF-23 was independently associated with prevalent frailty and prefrailty. FGF-23 and frailty were independent and additive risk factors for mortality. FGF-23 may be a marker for functional outcomes.
Biotechnology. The key to improved animal production

Biotechnology will influence the reproductive performance of cattle in a number of different ways. In animals breeding, embryo transfer has already had a significant impact on the way in which genetic selection of animals is performed. If other technologies such as embryo splitting, in vitro fertilization, cloning, and sex selection are superimposed on conventional embryo transfer, genetic gains will be achieved at an extremely rapid rate. The net result be a rapidly changing animal population in which genetic gains are maximized. Transgenic animals with altered genetic make-up will also have a dramatic effect on animal production. The general introduction of such animals will be slow and the cost to produce them will be enormous, as conventional selection and progeny testing will be needed to ensure that the "new" introduced genes are functional and do not have detrimental side effects. Simple, sensitive assays of hormones and proteins developed using biotechnology will aid in the monitoring of reproductive performance of animals.
Comparison of Wind-Tunnel Pricing Models for Government Facilities

NASA’s national-class wind tunnels are almost equally dependent on fee revenues as on government funding. Changes in wind tunnel fees can significantly impact annual revenues. This paper explores six approaches for pricing the use of NASA wind-tunnel test facilities: (1) marginal cost pricing; (2) two-part pricing with full cost recovery; (3) two-part pricing with subsidization; (4) average cost pricing; (5) average cost pricing with subsidization; and (6) a policy where testing facilities can be used at no charge. The analysis compares these pricing strategies in terms of their efficiency, effect on NASA’s budget, and fairness, using a simple economic framework. Not charging for use performed poorly on all criteria; the other five approaches performed well on at least one criterion.
Radioactive sodium clearance as a test of circulatory efficiency of tubed pedicles and flaps.

Summary and ConclusionsThe rate of clearance of an intradermal wheal of radioactive sodium Na24) has been successfully employed in eight patients as a clinical test for the evaluation of the circulation in tubed pedicles and flaps. The experiences recorded indicate that the radioactive sodium clearance test, because of its simplicity and accuracy, has a wide field of application in the study of problems in the transplantation of soft tissues. The rate of clearance of an intradermal wheal of radioactive sodium
DATUM CORRECTION BASED ON GLOBAL WAVEFIELD CONTINUATION

In this paper,a new solution to the near-surface problem-the datum correcting method based on the global wavefield continuation is presented.According to the mutual exchange principle of the earthquake theory and the observed surface settlement concept,the treatment of shotpoint and geophone station will be combined during the datum correcting process.The global continuation of the single wavefield will be achieved by the double square root operator in shotpoint-offset domain.At last,the wavefield vale of the target depth is extracted and the reference surface is redefined.The trial calculated results show that the datum correction based on global wavefield continuation is effective.
A Comparison of Computational Methods for Phase-Diverse Object and Phase Reconstruction

The object and atmospheric phase profiles are reconstructed from short exposure multiframe (speckle) phase diversity data by minimizing a penalized least squares cost functional. A pair of computational algorithms the limited memory BFGS method and a Newton / conjugate gradient/trust region method are compared on a test problem produced with observed image data.
Caring Capitalism: The Meaning and Measure of Social Value

Companies are increasingly championed for their capacity to solve social problems. Yet what happens when such goods as water, education, and health are sold by companies - rather than donated by nonprofits - to the disadvantaged and when the pursuit of mission becomes entangled with the pursuit of profit? In Caring Capitalism, Emily Barman answers these important questions, showing how the meaning of social value in an era of caring capitalism gets mediated by the work of 'value entrepreneurs' and the tools they create to gauge companies' social impact. By shedding light on these pivotal actors and the cultural and material contexts in which they operate, Caring Capitalism accounts for the unexpected consequences of this new vision of the market for the pursuit of social value. Proponents and critics of caring capitalism alike will find the book essential reading.
Prevalence of chronic kidney disease in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Background The incidence and prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) continue to rise worldwide. Increasing age, diabetes, hypertension, and cigarette smoking are well-recognized risk factors for CKD. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by chronic airway inflammation leading to airway obstruction and parenchymal lung destruction. Due to some of the common pathogenic mechanisms, COPD has been associated with increased prevalence of CKD. Methods Systematic review of medical literature reporting the incidence and prevalence of CKD in patients with COPD using the Cochrane Collaboration Methodology, and conduct meta-analysis to study the cumulative effect of the eligible studies. We searched Medline via Ovid, PubMed, EMBASE and ISI Web of Science databases from 1950 through May, 2016. We included prospective and retrospective observational studies that reported the prevalence of CKD in patients with COPD. Results Our search resulted in 19 eligible studies of which 9 have been included in the meta-analysis. The definition of CKD was uniform across all the studies included in analysis. COPD was found to be associated with CKD in the included epidemiological studies conducted in many countries. Our meta-analysis showed that COPD was found to be associated with a significantly increased prevalence of CKD (Odds Ratio [OR] = 2.20; 95% Confidence Interval [CI] 1.83, 2.65). Study limitations: Studies included are observational studies. However, given the nature of our research question there is no possibility to perform a randomized control trial. Conclusions Patients with COPD have increased odds of developing CKD. Future research should investigate the pathophysiological mechanism behind this association, which may lead to better outcomes.
TREATMENT WITH PATIROMER DECREASES ALDOSTERONE IN PATIENTS WITH HEART FAILURE, CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE, AND HYPERKALEMIA ON RAAS INHIBITORS

Background: Aldosterone (ALD) plays an important role in the progression of HF and may be increased in HF due to activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). Hyperkalemia (HK) may also increase ALD and limits the use of RAAS inhibitors (RAASi). Patiromer, a nonabsorbed K+ binder,
Distance‐based Permutation of Inter‐Meal Differences as a Sensitive Test of Temporomandibular Joint Nociception in Rats

We compare nonparametric permutation method using intra-meal rate as endpoint with existing ANOVA method that uses average daily meal duration as an endpoint for detection of chronic pain in Sprague-Dawley rats. Nociception following bilateral temporomandibular joint (TMJ) injection of high dose of Complete Freunds Adjuvant (CFA, 250 μg/50 μL per side) could be detected in young adult male Sprague-Dawley rats using average daily meal durations as a measure of nociception for up to 19 days (Kramer, Kerins, Schneiderman & Bellinger, Physiology & Behavior, 99, 2010; 669) using ANOVA and multiple comparison range tests. In this study, we reanalyzed the data using a nonparametric permutation procedure based on absolute differences between intra-meal feeding rate curves. In addition to that experiment, we injected bilaterally the TMJ of naive rats with either a low-dose CFA (15 μg/50 μL per side, n = 6) or saline (50 μL of 0.9%, n = 4) and monitored the animals for 7 days. The permutation test of the intra-meal feeding rate detected the presence of nociception in the high-dose CFA treatment group for up to 40 days or twice as long as when using ANOVA on average daily meal durations. The permutation method also detected the low-dose CFA-induced nociception with ten times lower p-values and for several days longer than ANOVA of changes in meal durations. CFA-induced injury resulted in even reduction in intra-meal feeding rate and lengthening of the meals in both high- and low-dose CFA-injected animals. The rate analysis also showed when the rats first started a meal they were experiencing the same level of nociception as at the end of the meal. This demonstrated that intra-meal chewing itself did not alter the level of nociception. These results suggest that permutation tests based on differences in intra-meal feeding rates can be used as a sensitive test to determine and study the temporal patterns of TMJ nociception.
The QM evolution: Behavioral quality management as a firm’s strategic resource

Abstract Firms implement various quality management (QM) practices to improve process quality. Scholars recognize that QM practices consist of both technical and behavioral oriented practices. The relationship of technical and behavioral oriented practices on performance has led to paradoxical relationships. Improving quality performance necessitates understanding the relationship between technical and behavioral orientated practices. This study empirically examines the relationship between technical and behavioral quality practices by collecting survey data from both US-based (N = 152) and China-based (N = 222) firms. The analysis uses the structural equation modeling technique, and shows that behavioral QM practices fully mediate the relationship between technical QM practices and firm performance. This implies that behavioral QM practices act as a strategic resource which helps generate a competitive advantage. The results contribute to understanding how quality management practices can lead to a competitive advantage.
Synaptic Mechanisms of Learning

Primary motor cortex is a key brain structure involved in the acquisition and performance of skilled movement. The intrinsic connectivity of motor cortex is highly adaptive, and synaptic plasticity can be induced in response to various stimulation protocols. This plasticity is thought to represent a neural mechanism by which motor skills are encoded by the nervous system. In support of this hypothesis, skill learning alters synaptic responses and increases synapse number within motor cortex in a manner that parallels changes in motor performance. This synaptic plasticity is thought to underlie the learning-dependent reorganization of movement representations.
Water for Energy: Systems Integration and Analysis to Address Resource Challenges

Water for the energy sector is an interdisciplinary challenge that requires new integrated systems knowledge, well-documented case studies that test various decision processes, and both quantitative and qualitative modeling and analyses to support sustainable decision-making. This review paper highlights water requirements of the energy sector and summarizes interdisciplinary research opportunities for sustainable and efficient management of water for energy, and new datasets to inform analysis of water policies and programs affecting energy systems. The energy sector depends closely on water resources for primary fuels production (including extraction or cultivation, processing, and refining) and electric power generation in thermoelectric and hydroelectric power plants. While research in these areas has advanced significantly in recent years, questions remain regarding water quality and quantity impacts of emerging technologies and policies in the water-energy sectors, potential for use of alternative water resources, impact of energy portfolio transitions, and tools to aid decision-making under uncertainty. Water is essential for energy production and power generation processes. Projected transitions in energy portfolios and water for energy policy hold the potential to both mitigate or exacerbate water stress, therefore motivating a critical need for systems integration and analysis approaches that can guide the development of cost-effective, resource-efficient, and resilient systems and services.
Metal-free redox active deep eutectic solvents

Metal-free deep eutectic solvents composed of hydrogen bond donors and viologen-based ammonium salts exhibit reversible electrochemistry with viologen concentrations of 4.2 M and freezing points near room temperature. Spectroelectrochemistry and simulation of voltammetry indicate poor aggregation of the reduced radical cation.
Conversation and Language Acquisition: A Pragmatic Approach

Children acquire language in conversation. This is where they are exposed to the community language by more expert speakers. This exposure is effectively governed by adult reliance on pragmatic pri...
Strong Duality and Dual Pricing Properties in Semi-Infinite Linear Programming: A non-Fourier–Motzkin Elimination Approach

Following the idea of the conjecture for semi-infinite programming in a paper by Kortanek and Zhang, recently published in Optimization, in this paper we show that the Fourier–Motzkin elimination is not needed in the study of the strong duality and dual pricing properties for semi-infinite programming. We also prove several new results on the strong duality and dual pricing properties. Specifically, we propose a new subspace, under which the strong duality property holds. We give a necessary and sufficient condition for the dual pricing property to hold under this subspace, which is further used to examine the examples presented in the Basu–Martin–Ryan paper.
Mechanistic Insight into Thiophene Catalyst-Transfer Polymerization Mediated by Nickel Diimine Catalysts

Catalyst-transfer polymerization (CTP) is a living, chain-growth method for accessing conjugated polymers with control over their length and sequence. Typical catalysts utilized in CTP are either Pd or Ni complexes with bisphosphine or N-heterocyclic carbene ancillary ligands. More recently, diimine-ligated Ni complexes have been employed; however, in most cases nonliving pathways become dominant at high monomer conversions and/or low catalyst loading. We report herein an alternative Ni diimine catalyst that polymerizes 3-hexylthiophene in a chain-growth manner at low catalyst loading and high monomer conversion. In addition, we elucidate the chain-growth mechanism as well as one chain-transfer pathway. Overall, these studies provide insight into the mechanism of conjugated polymer synthesis mediated by Ni diimine catalysts.
Voltage-induced switching of an antiferromagnetically ordered topological Dirac semimetal

An antiferromagnetic semimetal has been recently identified as a new member of topological semimetals that may host three-dimensional symmetry-protected Dirac fermions. A reorientation of the N\'eel vector may break the underlying symmetry and open a gap in the quasiparticle spectrum, inducing the (semi)metal-insulator transition. Here, we predict that such a transition may be controlled by manipulating the chemical potential location of the material. We perform both analytical and numerical analysis on the thermodynamic potential of the model Hamiltonian and find that the gapped spectrum is preferred when the chemical potential is located at the Dirac point. As the chemical potential deviates from the Dirac point, the system shows a possible transition from the gapped to the gapless phase and switches the corresponding N\'eel vector configuration. We perform density functional theory calculations to verify our analysis using a realistic material and discuss a two terminal transport measurement as a possible route to identify the voltage-induced switching of the N\'eel vector.
Naturschutz und Landschaftspflege in der Weimarer Republik

Die Anerkennung der staatlichen Verantwortung bei der Pflege der Naturdenkmaler und Landschaften durch die Weimarer Verfassung war ein Ausdruck der gewachsenen kulturellen Bedeutung des Naturschutzes wahrend der Kaiserzeit. Die Einbeziehung des Naturschutzes in die republikanische Verfassung stellt die immer noch verbreitete Auffassung in Frage, dass die verschiedenen naturschutzerischen und lebensreformerischen Stromungen nur in volkischen Kreisen Resonanz fanden. Obwohl die Vertreter des Naturschutzes 1933 Hitlers Machtergreifung mehrheitlich und teilweise enthusiastisch begrusten, war die Unterstutzung des Hitler-Regimes durch den Naturschutz bei der Grundung der Weimarer Republik nicht schicksalhaft vorgezeichnet. 1926 schreibt ein Heimatschutzfuhrer des Rheinlandes, ERNST TIEDGE, uber die moralische Bedeutung des Naturschutzes fur die deutsche Nachkriegsgesellschaft Folgendes: “Nur das vertraute, liebe Bild der Heimaterde, das auf uns alle die gleiche Wirkung ausubt, so verschieden wir auch sonst denken und glauben, kann uns aus all den Wirren der Gegenwart und aus der Auflosung in zahllose Gruppen und Parteien wieder zusammenfuhren als ein einig Volk von Brudern”. Er fordert seine Landsleute auf, sich aktiv in lokalen Naturschutzaktivitaten zu engagieren, da dies seiner Auffassung nach eine Moglichkeit positiven burgerschaftlichen Engagements in einer Lage sei, die durch Krieg, militarische Niederlage, okonomische Krisen und politischen Unruhen gekennzeichnet war. Seine Behauptung, dass die Heimatnatur und der auf sie bezogene Naturschutz den Deutschen ein Gemeinsamkeit stiftender Wert innerhalb tiefer politischer Gegensatze sein konne, spiegelt den verbreiteten Glauben der 1920er Jahre wider, wonach eine Verbesserung der naturlichen Umwelt soziale Konflikte gleichsam dadurch “heilen” konne, dass Menschen sich mit ihrer heimatlichen Natur identifizierten. Dieser Gedanke erscheint auch im Ruckblick verstandlich, denn zu den Schwachen der Weimarer Republik zahlte von Beginn an das Fehlen eines moralisch-politischen Wertkonsenses der Burgerschaft. Allerdings konnte die Heimatnatur, die “allen gleich lieb und wert” sei oder sein sollte, diesen Konsens nicht ersetzen. Keywords: Bund Heimatschutz; bundische Jugend; Gartenstadtbewegung; Jugendkult; Lebensreformbewegung; Naturfreunde; Naturschutzgeschichte; Rheinischer Verein fur Denkmalpflege und Heimatschutz; soziale Genesung; Urlandschaft; Volk ohne Raum; Wandervogel-Bewegung; Weimarer Republik; Zuruck-zur-Natur-Ethos
Towards a cancer-chemopreventive diet.

Commensal microbes engineered to convert natural compounds found in cruciferous vegetables into molecules with anticancer properties prevent carcinogenesis and cause the regression of colorectal cancer in mice fed with a vegetable diet.