cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
MOLECULAR REGULATION OF BILE ACID HOMEOSTASIS

Bile acids have been known for decades to aid in the digestion and absorption of dietary fats and fat-soluble vitamins in the intestine. The development of gene knockout mice models and transgenic humanized mouse models have helped us understand other function of bile acids, such as their role in modulating fat, glucose, and energy metabolism, and in the molecular regulation of the synthesis, transport, and homeostasis of bile acids. The G-protein coupled receptor TGR5 regulates the bile acid induced alterations of intermediary metabolism, while the nuclear receptor FXR regulates bile acid synthesis and homeostasis. However, this review indicates that unidentified factors in addition to FXR must exist to aid in the regulation of bile acid synthesis and homeostasis. Significance Statement This review captures the present understanding of bile acid synthesis, the role of bile acid transporters in the enterohepatic circulation of bile acids, the role of the nuclear receptor FXR on the regulation of bile acid synthesis and bile acid transporters, and the importance of bile acids in activating GPCR signaling via TGR5 to modify intermediary metabolism. This information is useful for developing drugs for the treatment of various hepatic and intestinal diseases, as well as the metabolic syndrome.
Publicly-Funded Services Providing Sexual, Reproductive, and Maternal Healthcare to Immigrant Women in the United States: A Systematic Review.

Sexual, reproductive, and maternal health (SRMH) care in the US is highly politicized, with restrictions that impede immigrant women’s health. This review describes SRMH outcomes among immigrant women accessing publicly-funded services. We examined articles published from December 2007 to August 2020 in PubMed, PsycINFO, and Web of Science databases, following PRISMA guidelines. Included articles (n = 9) consisted of predominantly Latina immigrant samples. The majority included a subsample of women classified as vulnerable due to low income, low educational attainment, and/or documentation status. Our search strategy included a range of SRMH outcomes; however, the majority of articles focused on prenatal care (PNC). Over half of the articles revealed that underserved immigrant women with access to Medicaid/CHIP during expansion had higher rates of PNC adequacy compared to those without access. There is a need for more research on the impact of publicly-funded services other than Medicaid on outcomes beyond PNC.
The Hero-Apollonius Method of Cube Duplication

The method of cube duplication presented by Hero survives in at least six different versions. It appears in the Belopoeica of Hero, still extant in Greek (HB); it appears also, in a somewhat different form, in Hero’s Mechanics, accessible to us now only in the medieval Arabic translation by Qustâ ibn Luqâ (HM). Furthermore, Pappus presents a version of Hero’s text in Collection III (HP), while Eutocius includes yet another version among the 12 methods surveyed in his commentary on Archimedes’ Sphere and Cylinder (HE). To these we may add one of the three methods given by John Philoponus in his commentary on Aristotle’s Posterior Analytics; although the procedure there described is identical with that of the Heronian group, Philoponus assigns it to Apollonius (hence our designation of it as AJ). Support for this attribution comes from Eutocius, who likewise assigns to Apollonius an alternative method (AE) that technically, if not textually, is equivalent to the Heronian method.1 We may infer from Eutocius and Philoponus that this manner of solution was known through a textual tradition stemming from Apollonius, whence the procedure itself was discovered no later than the time of Apollonius. The attribution to Hero must have arisen merely from his having chosen it for inclusion in his mechanical writings, rather than from his being its discoverer. A closer look at these texts will reveal the nature of their interdependence, as well as the manner of editorial intervention by the later writers.
Chapter 22 Early Gene Expression in the Activation of Mononuclear Phagocytes

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the current extent of information on early genes in macrophage activation. The activation of mononuclear phagocytes by various stimuli represents an excellent model for studying the regulation and function of early genes. Although mononuclear phagocytes (such as neutrophils) can be rapidly stimulated by chemotactic stimuli, such as formylated peptides or platelet activating factor (PAF), physiological activation with regard to macrophages is reserved for the development of increased competence to complete complex functions, such as the destruction of facultative-intracellular microorganisms or tumor cells. This activation, which is complexly regulated by multiple inductive and suppressive stimuli, requires ∼24 hrs for completion. Macrophage activation can be formally defined as the acquisition of competence to perform or complete a complex function, manifested by the altered expression of separate and independently regulated gene products. This may serve as a useful definition for cellular activation in general and, indeed, has been applied to the activation of endothelial cells.
Associations between diet quality and cognitive control in childhood (124.1)

The influence of diet on specific aspects of cognitive function and brain health in childhood remains unknown. We aimed to investigate the relationship between diet quality and cognitive control in...
Abstract 14646: Internal Medicine Housestaff Perceptions of Statins and ACC/AHA Blood Cholesterol Guidelines

Background: Statins are integral in the prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Provider perceptions and prescribing practices of statins vary. Internal medicine housestaff (HS) perceptions of statins and new ACC/AHA cholesterol guidelines have not previously been assessed. Methods: We examined internal medicine HS perceptions of statins and ACC/AHA cholesterol guidelines through a 48-question survey. We surveyed HS at three academic training programs. Anonymous responses were collected via a secure website. Results: 99 respondents’ results (84% categorical residents) were examined from Emory, Johns Hopkins, and UTSW. HS report observing low rates of statin side effects: 64% and 91% reported rates of 1-2x upper limit of normal (ULN) develop only 6% of residents stop statin the...
Electrical insulations systems-'A total package'

The advantages of a total-package approach to electrical insulation systems are described. Total package systems offer today's manufacturer a large choice of bobbin materials, interwinding materials, magnet wires, and varnishes of all types, as well as a multitude of minor components. It is noted that choosing one of these systems can save the manufacturer of transformers, motors, solenoids, relays, or power supplies not only much of the testing costs but also time getting the product to the marketplace. Particular emphasis is placed on Du Pont's total-package approach, which has sought to meet the following key electrical manufacturer requirements: IEC and UL recognition of the systems; systems available in most temperature classes; systems using the most up-to-date ingredients (as well as the old proven standbys); the widest possible choices of major and minor components; ingredients obtainable on a global basis; and free authorization to use these systems. >
On Area Preserving Mappings of Minimal Distortion

In this paper, using certain conformal mappings from uniformization theory, we give an explicit method for unfolding surfaces which locally preserves the geometry. We moreover discuss area preserving flattenings, and those which have minimal distortion in the sense of preserving angles. These results may be used for various purposes in 3D medical visualization, in particular for the visualization of the brain surface in functional MR, and in virtual colonoscopy.
Hepatic and splenic stiffness augmentation assessed with MR elastography in an in vivo porcine portal hypertension model

Purpose To investigate the influence of portal pressure on the shear stiffness of the liver and spleen in a well-controlled in vivo porcine model with MR Elastography (MRE). A significant correlation between portal pressure and tissue stiffness could be used to noninvasively assess increased portal venous pressure (portal hypertension), which is a frequent clinical condition caused by cirrhosis of the liver and is responsible for the development of many lethal complications.
Analyzing Narratives of Expertise: Toward the Development of a Burkeian Pentadic Scheme

Recent work in the sociology of professions highlights the central importance of abstract discourse in professionalization processes. Drawing on the work of Kenneth Burke, I argue that broadening the focus of analysis from “abstract discourse” to “narratives of expertise” will provide the ability to (1) more clearly analyze the social conditions that are conducive to the efficacy of abstraction as a basis for a claim of expertise and (2) theorize and empirically examine the formation and maintenance of a collective professional identity. To assist in the reformulation of professionalization studies around narratives of expertise, I develop a modified extension of Burke's five key terms of dramatism (act, agent, scene, agency, and purpose). Burke's pentadic scheme enables researchers to show how narratives of expertise ground jurisdictional claims and the constitution of professional identity in one of the elements of pentad. I illustrate the empirical power of the pertadic scheme through an examination of...
Divalent Cation Activation of Deoxycholate-Solubilized and -Inactivated Membrane Reduced Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Oxidase of Bacillus megaterium KM

Abstract After treating Bacillus megaterium KM membranes with 0.2% sodium deoxycholate, most of the membrane reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) oxidase was inactivated, and all of the membrane NADH-2,6 dichlorophenol indophenol oxidoreductase was solubilized. Dilution of the deoxycholate-treated membranes in the presence of divalent cations restored almost all of the original membrane NADH oxidase. The effectiveness of the divalent cation activation decreased in the order Ba2+ > Ca2+ > Mg2+ > Mn2+. After centrifugation, the deoxycholate-treated membranes at 100,000 × g for 1 hr, all of the NADH oxidase that was activated by a divalent cation was soluble. Cation-activated oxidase, however, was insoluble. The results show that 0.2% deoxycholate at least partially solubilizes the total electron chain from NADH to O2 in an inactive from which can be reactivated by divalent cations with the formation of active, insoluble NADH oxidase.
Irrigation Economics in Poor Countries, Illustrated by the Usangu Plains of Tanzania

This little book of 144 pages could not possibly touch on all of the economic issues concerning irrigation, but the few it does develop make Irrigation Economics in Poor Countries worthwhile reading for even those long immersed in the subject as well as for newcomers. It is particularly good in developing the distinctions among run-of-the-river irrigation, storage to even-out seasonal variations in flow, and storage to even-out annual variations. This subject is seldom explored in recent literature on irrigation economics. The authors conclude for their specific study area that storage from year to year is much too costly relative to its benefits to be worthwhile. This conclusion leads one to question whether the same would hold true in many other areas.
Diagenetic layers in the upper walls of Valles Marineris, Mars: Evidence for drastic climate change since the mid‐Hesperian

A packet of relatively resistant layers, totaling approx. 400 m thickness, is present at the tops of the chasma walls throughout Valles Marineris. The packet consists of an upper dark layer (approx. 50 m thick), a central bright layer (approx. 250 m thick), and a lower dark layer (approx. 100 m thick). The packet appears continuous and of nearly constant thickness and depth below ground surface over the whole Valles system (4000 km E-W, 800 km N-S), independent of elevation (3-10 km) and age of plateau surface (Noachian through upper Hesperian). The packet continues undisturbed beneath the boundary between surface units of Noachian and Hesperian ages, and continues undisturbed beneath impact craters transected by chasma walls. These attributes are not consistent with layer formation by volcanic or sedimentary deposition, and are consistent with layer formation in situ, i.e., by diagenesis, during or after upper Hesperian time. Diagenesis seems to require the action of aqueous solutions in the near subsurface, which are not now stable in the Valles Marineris area. To permit the stability of aqueous solutions, Mars must have had a fairly dense atmosphere, greater than or equal to 1 bar CO2, when the layers formed. Obliquity variations appear to be incapable of producing such a massive atmosphere so late in Mars' history.
The marine prochlorophyte Prochlorococcus contributes significantly to phytoplankton biomass and primary production in the Sargasso Sea

The newly-discovered prochlorophyte Prochlorococcus marinus is often numerically dominant in the euphotic zone of the tropical and subtropical ocean; however, its contribution to phytoplankton biomass and primary production is largely unknown. Using its unique pigment divinyl-chlorophyll a (Chl a2) as a chemosystematic marker, we show that Prochlorococcus is present at a station in the Sargasso Sea throughout most of the year. Whereas it is only found at depth during the early summer, it can be found throughout the euphotic zone during the rest of the year. Averaged over the year Prochlorococcus pigment-biomass constitutes about 30% of the total. Its growth rate, estimated from the incorporation of 14C into Chl a2 ranged from values of 0.3 day−1 in the surface layer to values less than 0.1 day−1 at the bottom of the euphotic zone. Averaged over the seasons, approximately 25% of the total productivity was due to Prochlorococcus. Prochlorococcus clearly is an important component of the ecosystem in the Sargasso Sea, and perhaps the world ocean.
ON THE BIRCH AND SWINNERTON-DYER CONJECTURE FOR ELLIPTIC CURVES OVER TOTALLY REAL NUMBER FIELDS

It is conjectured that an elliptic curve E defined over a totally real number field F is modular; i.e., the associated Z-adic representation pE := Pe,i of I> := Gal(F/F), for some rational prime /, is isomorphic to the Z-adic representation pn := pnj of TF associated to some automorphic representation tt of GL(2)/F (see §2 below for details). This conjecture was proved when F = Q (see [BCDT], [W]). The Birch and Swinnerton-Dyer conjecture says in particular that (for more precise details see [M] and also §2 below):
Effects of gender and sex-role on tension and satisfaction in small groups.

Role-strain and role-accumulation explanations regarding tension and satisfaction were examined in task-oriented discussions by groups made up of both sexes. Although gender had no effect on competitive behavior in matrix games or on tension and satisfaction in small groups discussing these games, masculine, feminine, and androgynous sex-roles as indexed by Bern's (1974) questionnaire significantly influenced these behaviors and attitudes. With the exception of tension releases, which are conceptually somewhat ambiguous, androgynous subjects were lowest in tension and highest in satisfaction. A follow-up experiment using all female subjects reproduced these results and also showed that masculine females were high in tension and dissatisfaction. Lack of adequate numbers of feminine males precluded a similar analysis for males. It is suggested that the advantages of role-accumulation experienced by androgynous subjects may result because the roles are internalized, and, therefore, may be transferred easily ...
CD4-Independent inhibition of lymphocyte proliferation mediated by HIV-1 envelope glycoproteins

Abstract The cytopathic effects of HIV-1 produced by direct infection of human T cells do not account for the disproportionate loss of CD4-positive lymphocytes during the course of HIV infection. Previous studies have demonstrated the inhibition of uninfected human T cell activation and proliferation by the HIV-1 envelope glycoproteins, presumably due to gp120-CD4 interactions. To examine the ability of HIV-1 to inhibit T cell proliferation in the absence of both direct infection and gp120-CD4 interactions, we tested the effect of HIV-1 on mouse T cell proliferation. Culture media containing HIV-1 released from infected cells inhibited T lymphocyte proliferation in response to interleukin-2 (IL-2). Studies to explore the mechanism of this inhibition suggested that the decrease in proliferation resulted from interactions between HIV-1 and the mouse cells, but did not involve IL-2/IL-2 receptor interactions. We used monoclonal antibodies to demonstrate that the HIV-1 envelope glycoproteins were required for the inhibition of murine T cell proliferation. Anti-gpl 20 antibodies completely restored proliferation, indicating that the surface protein gp120 was primarily required for the inhibition of proliferation. However, antibodies directed against the transmembrane protein of HIV-1 (gp41) also partially restored lymphocyte proliferation. The functional significance of the HIV-1 envelope protein epitopes recognized by the monoclonal antibodies is discussed.
Characterization of a competitive and reversible ligand to E2 conformation of Na, K ATPase molecule.

Abstract The binding of cardiac glycosides to the E2 conformation of Na, K ATPase suggests that this conformation may represent a potential regulatory site for an endogenous ligand. To examine this hypothesis, delipidated and desalted, ethanolic extracts were prepared from plasma. Plasma extracts produced displacement of 3H-ouabain from Type I and II high affinity binding sites that was parallel to the displacement by cold ouabain. Plasma extracts shifted the binding curve of 3H-ouabain to the right indicating a competitive and reversible displacement. Extracts also produced a dose-dependent inhibition of Na,K ATPase and K-stimulated, p-nitrophenyl phosphatase activity. These results indicate that this ligand may function as an endogenous ligand to the E2 conformation of the Na,K ATPase molecule and be involved in its regulation.
Dynamical properties of the automorphism groups of the random poset and random distributive lattice

A method is developed for proving non-amenability of certain automorphism groups of countable structures and is used to show that the automorphism groups of the random poset and random distributive lattice are not amenable. The universal minimal flow of the automorphism group of the random distributive lattice is computed as a canonical space of linear orderings but it is also shown that the class of finite distributive lattices does not admit hereditary order expansions with the Amalgamation Property.
The effects of feeding periodicity and ration on the rate of increment formation in otoliths of larval walleye pollock Theragra chalcogramma (Pallas)

The effect of feeding conditions (periodicity and ration level provided) on otolith increment counts of laboratory reared larval walleye pollock Theragra chalcogramma (Pallas) was tested. Increments were deposited with daily periodicity for larvae growing under optimal feeding conditions (high, continuous ration). Increment counts determined by light microscopy were less than expected, assuming a rate of formation of 1 · day−1 for larvae grown at low rations. Increment deposition and length (and therefore growth rates) were positively correlated. Daily increment resolution was disrupted after 4 days of starvation. Evidence is discussed indicating that increments continue to be deposited on otoliths of slow-growing and starved larvae, but are too narrowly spaced for resolution by light microscopy. Feeding larvae more than once daily had no effect on increment deposition rates. For up to 38 days, increment counts from the sagitta and lapillus were equivalent, but for the first 20 days increment counts were easier from the lapillus, which was larger. After 20 days, the sagitta was larger and overall easier to read.
DNA vaccines for HIV: challenges and opportunities.

In December 2005, the UNAIDS and WHO reported that the global epidemic known as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) has claimed the lives of more than 25 million adults and children over the past 26 years. These figures included an estimated 3.1 million AIDS-related deaths in 2005. Despite enormous efforts to control the spread of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) new infection rates are on the rise. An estimated 40.3 million people are now living with HIV, including 4.9 million new infections this past year. Nearly half of new HIV infections are in young people between the ages of 15 and 24. While drug therapies have helped sustain the lives of infected individuals in wealthy regions, they are relatively unavailable to the poorest global regions. This includes sub-Saharan Africa which has ∼25.8 million infected individuals, more than triple the number of infections of any other region in the world. It is widely believed that the greatest hope for controlling this devastating pandemic is a vaccine. In this review, we will discuss the current state of DNA-based vaccines and how they compare to other vaccination methods currently under investigation. We will also discuss innovative ideas for enhancing DNA vaccine efficacy and the progress being made toward developing an effective vaccine.
Bonding and electronic structure in high-Tc superconducting oxides: A case for the importance of the cations.

It is suggested that the chemical bonding in the high-${\mathit{T}}_{\mathit{c}}$ superconducting oxides is strongly influenced by the large fields induced by the very ionic cations (e.g., barium) and that the presence of such cations is a necessary requirement for superconductivity. The electronic effect of this field is thus to modify the interaction between the oxygen and copper atoms in the cuprate anion of the superconductor. The experimental evidence for these ideas come from a comparison of core- and valence-level photoemission spectra of the superconducting oxides with those of typical transition-metal oxides on the one hand and the very ionic oxides (e.g., BaO) on the other.
Usability testing and design of a library website: an iterative approach

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to provide a case study of the usability studies used by the Carnegie Mellon University Libraries during the redesign of their website.Design/methodology/approach – The Libraries used a web‐based survey to determine needs, proceeding to the prototype design, and completing the process with the final design and user testing. Think‐aloud protocols, used to determine the strengths and weaknesses of the final design, asked participants to verbalize their thoughts as they completed a series of tasks.Findings – The results of the protocols indicated several key weaknesses with respect to navigation, screen design and labeling, leading to more revisions and the final release. Testing indicated that color and graphics attract attention; font, labels, and placement increase visibility; chunking and leading with keywords increase readability; and consistency increases usability.Research limitations/implications – This is a case study and therefore not necessarily representativ...
Effect of OKY-1581, a Thromboxane Synthesis Inhibitor, on the Platelet Aggregation and Vasodilation Induced by Injury of Mouse Pial Arterioles

Summary: OKY-1581 (sodium [E]-3-[4-(3-pyridylmethyl)-phenyl]-2-methylacrylate) is a known inhibitor of thromboxane synthesis, a class of agents thought potentially useful in treating conditions characterized by platelet aggregation. Doses of 10, 100, and 300 mg/kg were administered intraperitoneally to mice 1 h before their pial vessels were injured by a combination of light from a filtered mercury lamp and intravascular sodium fluorescein. In this model platelet aggregation and arterial dilation are produced. Pretreatment with OKY-1581 had no effect except at the 300-mg/kg dose, which enhanced aggregation as manifested by a decrease in the time required for the noxious stimulus to initiate aggregation. In addition the dilation increased in magnitude as compared with that in controls. The latter result is compatible with a decreased synthesis of thromboxane, a known constrictor of cerebral vessels. However, the enhancement of aggregation by a high dose of OKY-1581 was unexpected and paradoxical. The data do not support the use of thromboxane synthesis inhibitors as therapy for conditions caused by platelet aggregation, but the results may be dependent upon the species, the vascular bed, or the method used to induce aggregation.
Discrimination of differences in speed and flicker rate depends on directionally selective mechanisms

The present study compared discriminations of differences in speed to differences in temporal frequency and examined the role of directionally selective mechanisms in such discriminations. In measuring the contrast dependence of speed and temporal frequency discriminations two different techniques were used to reduce the role of directionally selective mechanisms. The first was the virtual elimination of directional selectivity in the visual cortex of cats by stroboscopic rearing. The second was the reduction of directional sensitivity in normal humans and cats by testing with gratings of high spatial and low temporal frequency. Discrimination of the temporal frequency of sinusoidal gratings flickered in counterphase was worse than discrimination of speeds of moving gratings. Under conditions that maximize the sensitivity of directional mechanisms (low spatial, moderate temporal frequency) Weber fractions for speed and flicker in all normal observers (cats and humans) were constant at higher contrast and increased only as contrast began to approach threshold. In strobe-reared cats sensitivity for direction was 10 times lower than sensitivity for detection. They were able to discriminate speeds and temporal frequencies only at contrasts that exceeded contrast threshold for direction. This was also true for a normal cat whose sensitivity for direction was reduced by increasing the spatial frequency of the grating. In all cases Weber fractions for flicker as a function of contrast were greater than but paralleled those for speed.
Event-Based Temperature Control for Machining Using MTConnect

MTconnect is a newly-developed standardized communications protocol that is designed to make it easier to collect, transmit and leverage data from shop floor machine tools. However, MTConnect is a read-only architecture, i.e., it is currently used for monitoring and not control of manufacturing processes. This paper develops an event-based real-time control architecture using MTConnect and demonstrates feasibility on tool-tip temperature control of a small-scale CNC prototype machine. Analytical modeling provides a link between tool feed rate and tool-tip temperature. This model, which is verified through experiments, is used to develop both periodic sampling and eventbased PID control laws. The periodic PID controller is implemented on device to serve as a performance benchmark. Its performance is compared, both in simulation and experimentally, to an MTConnect-enabled event-based controller operating over the web.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Failure of metallothionein to bind iron or act as an iron mobilizing agent.

Abstract There are reasons to suggest metallothionein might act as a transient intracellular iron transport agent. Rabbit kidney metallothionein was isolated from animals treated with Cd in order to induce metallothionein synthesis. Attempts were made to form the iron-protein complex via several reaction routes. There was no evidence for complex formation. Metallothionein also failed to mobilize iron from ghosts of rabbit reticulocytes specifically labeled with 59 Fe.
Distribution of squid paralarvae, Loligo opalescens (Cephalopoda: Myopsida), in the Southern California Bight in the three years following the 1997–1998 El Niño

Large numbers of paralarvae of the California market squid, Loligo opalescens (10,560 paralarvae from 422 plankton samples), were collected in the Southern California Bight in 1999, 2000, and 2001 during the spawning season. Paralarval abundance increased dramatically (P<0.0041) from 1.5 squid/1,000m3 in 1999 to 77.9 squid/1,000m3 in 2000, and 73.6 squid/1,000m3 in 2001, following the El Nino of 1997–1998. The effects on the squid fishery of the 1997–1998 El Nino were thus extended for two years, with larval abundance reduced until the 1999–2000 spawning season. Paralarvae were abundant close to shore for up to a month after hatching in 2000 (P<0.003), with tidal surface currents adjacent to shore in the Channel Islands strongly affecting paralarval abundance. Tidally reversing currents within 1–3 km of shore created a boundary layer of "sticky water" within which paralarvae remained entrained inshore immediately after hatching. Neritic currents farther from shore dispersed older paralarvae within the Southern California Bight. The greatest change in paralarval abundance, for all transects, was observed within 1 km of the transition between these two flow regimes. Age of paralarvae (from statolith increments) entrained within the Catalina Island boundary layer averaged 13–16 days, but some individuals remained nearshore for up to a month. Paralarvae in the boundary layer occurred above 80 m depth both day and night, and exhibited a statistically significant pattern of vertical diel migration (P<0.01). Paralarvae at sea were disproportionately abundant adjacent to fronts associated with uplifted isotherms.
ON LOWER BOUNDS FOR THE COMMUNICATION VOLUME IN DISTRIBUTED SYSTEMS

In this paper we derive a lower bound for the total communication volume when mapping arbitrary task graphs onto a distributed processor system. For a K processor system this lower bound can be com...
Stability of non-monotone waves in a three-species reaction—diffusion model

A stability theorem is proved for non-monotone waves in a reaction–diffusion system modelling three competing species, where few stability results currently exist for systems with more than two species. Asymptotic stability with respect to the nonlinear equations is established by showing that the spectrum of the linearized operator has no unstable eigenvalues and that the zero eigenvalue associated with translation invariance is simple. The result is obtained in a singular regime where strong pattern formation occurs and solutions to the linear equations can be separated into particular solutions related to the fast–slow structure of the underlying wave and its singular limit. In this system both the fast and slow waves can contribute an instability and the global characterization of these solutions must address certain difficulties not present in lower-dimensional systems. The topological index of Alexander, Gardner and Jones is used to count the eigenvalues of the linear operator.
Design Insights for Tuning the Electrocatalytic Activity of Perovskite Oxides for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction

Rechargeable metal–air batteries and water electrolyzers based on aqueous alkaline electrolytes hold the potential to be sustainable solutions to address the challenge of storing large amounts of electrical energy generated from solar and wind resources. For these batteries and electrolyzers to be economically viable, it is essential to have efficient, durable, and inexpensive electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction. In this article, we describe new insights for predicting and tuning the activity of inexpensive transition metal oxides for designing efficient and inexpensive electrocatalysts. We have focused on understanding the factors determining the electrocatalytic activity for oxygen evolution in a strong alkaline medium. To this end, we have conducted a systematic investigation of nanophase calcium-doped lanthanum cobalt manganese oxide, an example of a mixed metal oxide that can be tuned for its electrocatalytic activity by varying the transition metal composition. Using X-ray absorption ...
Effect of acid decontamination of beef subprimal cuts on the microbiological and sensory characteristics of steaks.

Beef strip loins were decontaminated by spraying with solutions of various food grade acids (1.0% lactic acid, 1.0% acetic acid and an acid mixture containing 1.0% lactic acid, 2.0% acetic acid, 0.25% citric acid and 0.1% ascorbic acid) followed by vacuum packaging and storing at 4 ± 1°C. Initially and at days 3 and 6 of display in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) film, aerobic plate counts (APCs) of steaks fabricated from the acid treated loins that were stored for 0, 14, 28, 42, 56, 70 and 84 days were not significantly different (P > 0.05) from the APCs of steaks fabricated from control loins.
Identifying adolescent females at high risk of pregnancy in a pediatric emergency department.

Abstract Purpose Emergency departments (EDs) care for adolescent females with unmet reproductive health care needs. Our objective was, among adolescents presenting to a pediatric ED, to estimate pregnancy risk, describe pregnancy intentions, and identify potentially modifiable factors associated with pregnancy risk. Methods Using a paper-based questionnaire, we surveyed females aged 15–19 years presenting to our ED, assessing health care access, sexual behaviors, pregnancy intentions, and receptivity to interventions. We calculated the pregnancy risk index (PRI), which estimates pregnancy risk in the subsequent 12 months, by assessing recent sexual activity, contraception at last intercourse, and known contraceptive failure rates. Independent sample t tests and analysis of variance were used to identify risk factors associated with increased PRI. Results Of 459 females enrolled, 13% were pregnant and 20% reported prior pregnancy. Among 399 nonpregnant females, 238 (60%) had intercourse in the prior 3 months and 73 (31%) used no contraception at last intercourse. Among nonpregnant adolescents, the PRI was 19.5, which equates to 19.5 expected pregnancies per 100 females per year. Factors associated with higher PRI included lacking a primary provider, prior ED visits, wanting a baby now, and reported partner wantedness of pregnancy. Half believed ED doctors should discuss pregnancy prevention, and one-quarter were interested in starting contraception in the ED. Conclusions Nearly one-third of adolescent females in a pediatric ED were either pregnant or could be expected to become pregnant within a year. Screening questions can identify adolescents at high risk of pregnancy in the ED setting. These females should be the target for future pregnancy prevention interventions.
THE INTERACTION CONCEPT OF K-SYSTEMS THEORY

Abstract Klir systems theory or K-systems theory is an offshoot of reconstructability analysis. It provides a setting wherein common problems of statistics can be solved using the power of information theory. A cursory comparison of K-systems theory and the analysis of variance has been given [Jones, 1986]. However, the details of how to compute a K-systems interaction were not given, nor were any quantitative differences demonstrated, and the substate cognitive content measure suggested failed to provide an adequate representation of a multivariate interaction. This has led to some confusion and criticism of the work. This paper provides the fine details of the interaction concept in the K-systems and statistical context, as well as a comparative example which shows greatly disparate results. From the K-systems interaction defined here, we see that die conclusions of the original work remain valid. That is. K-systems constitute a correct model for interactions
Comparison of selection strategies for genetic testing of patients with hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal carcinoma: effectiveness and cost-effectiveness.

BACKGROUND Molecular testing for hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal carcinoma (HNPCC) is becoming standard care and it is cost-effective compared with no genetic testing. However, the best strategy for detection of HNPCC gene carriers is unknown. METHODS We use a decision analytic model to evaluate the effectiveness and incremental cost-effectiveness of four commonly used testing strategies to detect HNPCC gene carriers. The model starts with a population of colorectal carcinoma (CRC) patients and measures costs, the number of gene carriers detected, and incremental costs per gene carrier detected. RESULTS We found that germline testing on only those CRC probands who meet the Amsterdam criteria detects the fewest gene carriers and has the lowest cost whereas tumor microsatellite instability (MSI) testing of all CRC patients and families has the highest cost and detects the most gene carriers. When cost-effectiveness is considered, the mixed strategy (MSH2 and MLH1 testing on those who meet the Amsterdam criteria and germline testing for the remainder who meet less stringent modified criteria and are MSI-High) seems superior. The mixed strategy detects 59.6 mutation carriers per 1000 CRC cases and costs much less than the test all strategy, which has an incremental cost-effectiveness of $51,151. The mixed strategy often other strategies and when compared to the Amsterdam strategy, has a cost-effectiveness of only $6441 per gene carrier detected. CONCLUSIONS It is not very effective to limit genetic testing to only individuals who meet the Amsterdam criteria, as many gene carriers are missed. However, testing all CRC patients for tumor MSI-H, although effective, may be prohibitively expensive. A mixed strategy is the more cost-effective approach. Cancer 2002;95:1848–56. © 2002 American Cancer Society. DOI 10.1002/cncr.10910
Numerical stability of a convex hull algorithm for simple polygons

A numerically stable and optimalO(n)-time implementation of an algorithm for finding the convex hull of a simple polygon is presented. Stability is understood in the sense of a backward error analysis. A concept of the condition number of simple polygons and its impact on the performance of the algorithm is discussed. It is shown that if the condition number does not exceed (1+O(ź))/(3ź), then, in floating-point arithmetic with the unit roundoffź, the algorithm produces the vertices of a convex hull for slightly perturbed input points. The relative perturbation does not exceed 3ź(1+O(ź)).
Bacterial growth as an optimal process.

Abstract A mathematical model containing all the characteristic features of batch microbial growth (lag, exponential growth, stationary and decline phases) is here developed. The model is based on the assumption that the growth rate is controlled by the amount of some critical intermediate produced by the organism and the consequences of the assumption that the production of this is so regulated as to produce the maximum cellular mass by the time the limiting nutrient is exhausted are explored. In spite of its simplicity this model gives a sound qualitative agreement with observations of the developments that occur in microbial cultures, the lag phase being the result of the cell first building up its supply of the critical intermediate. Literature reports suggest that the cellular component that is comparable in behavior to the substance which controls the production of this intermediate is the total ribonucleic acid or ribosomal ribonucleic acid fraction. Both increase during the lag phase, remain fairly constant (on a per dry weight of cell basis) during the growth phase, and decrease in the stationary and decline phases. Since most of the RNA is found in the ribosomes, the sites of protein synthesis, this implies that the critical intermediate required for growth is protein.
Design concepts for a combined space environmental effects test facility

Abstract A combined space environmental effects facility was designed, built and used to evaluate synergistic effects on optical properties of materials used on the external surfaces of spacecraft. Of primary concern was the “in situ” measurement of spectral optical changes for commonly used thermal control materials. To accomplish this, an ultrahigh vacuum chamber is used together with irradiation sources for near and vacuum ultraviolet, low energy protons, electrons, and x-ray simulation. In situ reflectance measurements were performed to determine solar absorptivity changes.
The gas phase characterization of perfluorobutyryl chloride, C3F7COCl, using chirped pulse Fourier transform microwave spectroscopy

Abstract A chirped pulse Fourier transform microwave spectrometer has been used to record the pure rotational spectrum of perfluorobutyryl chloride seeded in a pulsed supersonic expansion of argon gas. Only one conformer of the title molecule was observed. For the 35 Cl species a total of 236 spectral transitions were recorded. Quantum chemical calculations together with the spectral constants obtained indicate that the observed conformer has the CCCCOCl centers contained within the ab plane with a dihedral angle ∠CCCO = 0°.
Estimating contrast transfer function and associated parameters by constrained non-linear optimization

The three-dimensional reconstruction of macromolecules from two-dimensional single-particle electron images requires determination and correction of the contrast transfer function (CTF) and envelope function. A computational algorithm based on constrained non-linear optimization is developed to estimate the essential parameters in the CTF and envelope function model simultaneously and automatically. The application of this estimation method is demonstrated with focal series images of amorphous carbon film as well as images of ice-embedded icosahedral virus particles suspended across holes.
Michurinist Biology in the People's Republic of China, 1948-1956.

Michurinist biology was introduced to China in 1948; granted a state supported monopoly in 1952; and reduced to parity with western genetics from 1956. The Soviets exported it through the propaganda agencies Sino Soviet Friendship Association (SSFA) and VOKS (Cultural Relations with Foreign Countries). China’s Ministry of Agriculture achieved broad public awareness and acceptance of Michurinist biology through a translation, publication, and Soviet guest speakers campaign – all managed by a team of agriculturalists led by Luo Tianyu, a veteran CCP (Communist Party) cadre. The campaign grew exponentially, but did not affect university or Chinese Academy of Sciences biology. Luo Tianyu’s failed attempt to force Michurinist biology on a Beijing university triggered its second stage: monopoly status and a ban on “Mendelist-Morganist” biology in teaching, research, and publication. The CCP Central Committee supported this policy believing that Michurinst biology would increase agricultural production for the forthcoming first Five Year Plan; whereas, western genetics had no practical value. Michurinist biology flourished at all levels of education, research, and science literature; Western genetics was completely shut down. This only began to change when the CCP Central Committee became wary of China’s dependency on Soviet technical expertise and failure to fully utilize that of China. Change was further promoted by significant attacks on Michurinist biology by Soviet and East German biologists. Soon, these developments informed China’s “genetics question,” which became a test case for larger questions about the definition of science and the relationship between scientists and the state. Under the guidance of Lu Dingyi’s Central Committee Propaganda Department, the CCP eventually decided that, henceforth, science controversies would only be resolved by the science community; and that monopolies or ideological orthodoxies would not be imposed on science. At the same time, the CCP rescinded Michurinist biology’s monopoly and the ban on western genetics. By the mid-1960s western genetics had successfully restored itself, largely due to the leadership of C. C. Tan, a former student of Dobzhansky. Michurinist biology’s presence shrank and it became marginalized.
62.4L: Late‐News Paper: Light Emitting Memory: A Modular LED Panel with 10K True Color Frame Rate for 3D Display Applications

Light Emitting Memory (LEM), a LED-based panel, is presented to address several key challenges in 3D displays. Under $100, LEM achieves 10K true-color frame rate, 64times32 resolution and 2.54mm pixel pitch. Compared with current state-of-the-art implementations, LEM is effectively 10x faster, 16x smaller and 200x cheaper.
Land Ethic? What Land Ethic?

Just over 60 years ago, Aldo Leopold argued for a ‘land ethic,’ a self-imposed limitation on the degree to which a person modifies the landscape, in order to protect overall ecosystem quality. Leop...
Preliminary evidence that specific candidate genes are associated with adolescent-onset antisocial behavior.

Though initially conceptualized as resulting from peer imitation of child-onset or life-course-persistent youth [Moffitt, 1993], there is mounting evidence from twin studies that adolescent-onset or adolescent-limited antisocial behavior may also be genetically influenced. This study sought to provide preliminary molecular genetic evidence in support of these findings. We further evaluated whether genetic associations varied between behavioral subtypes of ASB (i.e., physical aggression and nonaggressive rule-breaking), given that only the latter has been found to characterize adolescent-onset ASB. The sample consisted of 211 undergraduate men of European-American ancestry. Three polymorphisms with theoretical and/or empirical ties to ASB or related traits (i.e., tryptophan hydroxylase-A218C, 5HT2A His452Tyr, and the DAT1 variable nucleotide tandem repeat) were genotyped. Analyses revealed that two of the three polymorphisms (i.e., His452Tyr and DAT1) were associated with adolescent ASB. Moreover, these associations appeared to be specific to the nonaggressive, rule-breaking form of ASB, and did not extend to physical aggression, further supporting ties to adolescent ASB in particular. Such results thus constructively replicate earlier findings of genetic influence on adolescent ASB. They also offer preliminary evidence that the genetic processes underlying aggressive and nonaggressive antisocial behavior may be (at least partially) distinct. Aggr. Behav. 34:437–445, 2008. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
A Response to the Critiques of Tobacco Sales and Tobacco Possession Laws

SUMMARY Several researchers within the anti-smoking community have recently claimed that youth access tobacco programs are ineffective and drain limited resources. They make these claims because they feel that youth access programs do not affect teen smoking prevalence. Others have argued that anti-smoking interventions should not fine minors for possession of tobacco. In this last article, we provide a response to these arguments.
Three Fiscal Policy Experiments in an Agent-Based Macroeconomic Model

In this paper, I build from scratch a basic agent-based macroeconomic model, featuring fifty representative agents whose decisions to consume and save depend on the current relative performance of the economy at-large. I run three different experiments in the framework: the first, on the effects of tax and spending "flexibility" on stabilizing output, the second, on the ability of spending stimulus to stabilize output, and the third, on redistributive measures across income groups and their effects on aggregate economic performance. I find that tax and spending flexibility accelerates the path back to stability after an initial imposed downturn, that spending stimulus does much the same, though with a greater initial "kick", and that redistribution in this model may take place and increase the welfare of lower-income agents without imposing a significant burden on overall performance.