cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Epidemiology of resting pulse rate of persons ages 25-74--data from NHANES 1971-74.

Abstract Data from the first National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were examined to produce national estimates for pulse rate distributions, confirm previously reported associations with pulse rate, and to perform analyses of associations of pulse rate with dietary, biochemical, hematological, and other variables that might shed light on the nature of the associations of heart rate with hypertension and mortality. Among persons 25-74 years in the NHANES Survey, women had slightly higher resting pulse rates than men. Age had no consistent effects. Pulse rate was slightly higher in whites than in blacks among women and 25-44-year-old men. Resting pulse rate was slightly higher in fall and winter than in spring and summer and in the afternoon and evening than in the morning. Blood pressure and body temperature were significantly positively associated with pulse rate independent of multiple confounders. Heart beats per minute as recorded by electrocardiogram were slightly higher among smokers than nonsmokers after adjustment for multiple confounders. Of a large number of dietary, biochemical, and hematological variables, only total white blood cell count, hemoglobin, and serum uric acid showed consistent, independent associations with resting pulse or heart rate; these findings require confirmation in other populations.
Theory and Experiment in Corrosion of Advanced Ceramics

The exposure of nonoxide ceramics at elevated temperatures to corrosive gases results in the growth of product scales (passive oxidation) or loss of material (active oxidation) depending on the partial pressures of the reactant species. The processes which control the rales of scale growth in the passive regime have been carefully studied using single crystals and/or high purity polycrystalline material. The theoretical rationalization of the experimental data in terms of the thermodynamics and kinetics of oxidant ingress to and product egress from the interface is now widely accepted. The effects of contaminants on the passive oxidation can be understood in terms of this theoretical framework. However, many questions remain about the details of the mechanisms of oxidation of SiC and Si3N4 which require precise measurement of solubilities and diffusivities of oxidants, products, and impurities in the growing scales. The transition from passive to active oxidation is reviewed and the research challenges enumerated in this area.
Osteoporosis and Its Influence on Fracture Treatment and Healing

Osteoporosis poses many challenges for the management of fractures in a patient population commonly affected by multiple medical comorbidities such as diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, hypertension, and various inflammatory conditions, including malignancies (primary, metastatic, and secondary). These conditions, as well as some of their treatments, can exacerbate existing osteoporosis, further increasing the risk of fractures, and the likelihood of complications associated with their operative management. The design, development, and widespread use of locked plating systems have been critical components to addressing the stabilization of these fractures, which are often comminuted, with extensive involvement of the metaphysis, and commonly also have articular extension. These implant systems allow for decreased strain at the screw-bone interface, which has improved outcomes when used in metaphyseal fractures in osteoporotic bone. However, these systems also result in stiffer constructs, which can concentrate stress and increase the incidence of periprosthetic fractures. This discussion of the biology and biomechanics of osteoporosis, as it affects fracture healing and surgical implant selection, explains the rationale for methods of augmentation used in conjunction with commonly used surgical implant systems and provides clinical examples of their use in comminuted metaphyseal fractures in several anatomic locations in older patients with poor bone quality.
Progress in Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency: Collaboration as the Foundation of New Knowledge.

As a measure of the importance of alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD), 3 papers in this current issue of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases: Journal of the COPD Foundation regard AATD. These papers by Choate et al,1 Sieluk et al,2 and Brantly et al3 highlight advances in understanding this important but highly under-recognized condition.4,5 This editorial hopes to frame these diverse papers within current knowledge regarding AATD and to emphasize ways in which these studies reflect a special, collaborative scientific milieu that surrounds AATD.6 The papers respectively compare features of individuals with the PI*ZZ versus PI*SZ genotype,1 present the costs of treating AATD,2 and review available data regarding the efficacy of augmentation therapy for AATD – the intravenous infusion of pooled human plasma-derived alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT).3
Opedipal God: The Chinese Nezha and his I ndian Origins , by Meir Shahar

Opedipal God: The Chinese Nezha and his Indian Origins, by Meir Shahar. Honolulu: University of Hawai’i Press, 2015. 312 pp., £49.95 (hb). ISBN 9-780-824-847609.
Entropy and interfacial energy driven self-healable polymers.

Although significant advances have been achieved in dynamic reversible covalent and non-covalent bonding chemistries for self-healing polymers, an ultimate goal is to create high strength and stiffness commodity materials capable of repair without intervention under ambient conditions. Here we report the development of mechanically robust thermoplastic polyurethane fibers and films capable of autonomous self-healing under ambient conditions. Two mechanisms of self-healing are identified: viscoelastic shape memory (VESM) driven by conformational entropic energy stored during mechanical damage, and surface energy/tension that drives the reduction of newly generated surface areas created upon damage by shallowing and widening wounds until healed. The type of self-healing mechanism is molecular weight dependent. To the best of our knowledge these materials represent the strongest (Sf = 21 mN/tex, or σf ≈ 22 MPa) and stiffest (J = 300 mN/tex, or E ≈ 320 MPa) self-healing polymers able to repair under typical ambient conditions without intervention. Since two autonomous self-healing mechanisms result from viscoelastic behavior not specific to a particular polymer chemistry, they may serve as general approaches to design of other self-repairing commodity polymers. Different self-healing materials were developed in the past but development of mechanically robust and affordable self-healing materials with high strain and stiffness is challenging. Here the authors develop mechanically robust thermoplastic polyurethane fibers and films capable of autonomous self-healing under ambient conditions.
Review of Hybrid Offshore Wind and Wave Energy Systems

Hybrid wind wave systems combine offshore wind turbines with wave energy on a shared platform. These systems optimize power production at a single location by harnessing both the wind and the waves. Wave energy is currently at an earlier development stage than offshore wind. Research in this area is focused in wave energy converters being used for platform motion suppression of floating offshore wind turbines. Wave energy converters can passively shelter offshore wind turbines from waves and can also be actively controlled to reduce the system loads. Additionally, a small amount of supplemental power may be generated, which can be used for offshore wind turbine local power needs. There may be future benefits to these hybrid systems, but at this stage wave energy may increase the project cost and risk of offshore wind turbines. Hybrid wind wave system research and development is discussed, with a focus on floating offshore wind turbines. Additionally, two ocean demonstration scale hybrid wind and wave systems are discussed as case studies: the Poseidon Wave and Wind system and the W2Power system. Hybrid wind wave systems show potential to be part of the future of offshore wind energy.
EAR: Energy-aware risk-averse routing for disaster response networks

Abstract Disaster Response Networks (DRNs) are specific delay-tolerant networks (DTNs) designed to support temporary communications during disaster recovery with limited energy resources. Existing research on DRNs routing addresses routing metrics like packet delivery delay (PDD), packet delivery ratio (PDR), and total transmission energy (TTE). However, the complex interplay among these metrics remains unclear and makes their control difficult. Moreover, the standard deviation of packet delivery delay (PDS), which is overlooked by the previous works, is an important metric in DRNs. In this paper, we propose the Energy-Aware Risk-averse routing framework (EAR) for DRNs. EAR models the mobility in DRNs using a stochastic multigraph and computes the risks associated with routing paths using the Mean-Risk and Max-Probability models. A “λ-optimal” algorithm is used for finding routing paths with the minimum risks. A parameter L restricting the number of packet replicas and a differentiated service model are utilized to improve packet delivery efficiency (PDE) while maintaining other metrics at an adequate level. We show via extensive simulations that EAR provides flexible control of the routing risks and delivers packets to the destinations in a more energy-efficient way (up to 8x higher PDE with 4% lower PDR) than well-known routing protocols Prophet, MaxProp, RAPID and Spray&Wait.
Test performance evaluation of SARS-CoV-2 serological assays

ABSTRACT Background Serological tests are crucial tools for assessments of SARS-CoV-2 exposure, infection and potential immunity. Their appropriate use and interpretation require accurate assay performance data. Method We conducted an evaluation of 10 lateral flow assays (LFAs) and two ELISAs to detect anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. The specimen set comprised 128 plasma or serum samples from 79 symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR-positive individuals; 108 pre-COVID-19 negative controls; and 52 recent samples from individuals who underwent respiratory viral testing but were not diagnosed with Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Samples were blinded and LFA results were interpreted by two independent readers, using a standardized intensity scoring system. Results Among specimens from SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR-positive individuals, the percent seropositive increased with time interval, peaking at 81.8-100.0% in samples taken >20 days after symptom onset. Test specificity ranged from 84.3-100.0% in pre-COVID-19 specimens. Specificity was higher when weak LFA bands were considered negative, but this decreased sensitivity. IgM detection was more variable than IgG, and detection was highest when IgM and IgG results were combined. Agreement between ELISAs and LFAs ranged from 75.7-94.8%. No consistent cross-reactivity was observed. Conclusion Our evaluation showed heterogeneous assay performance. Reader training is key to reliable LFA performance, and can be tailored for survey goals. Informed use of serology will require evaluations covering the full spectrum of SARS-CoV-2 infections, from asymptomatic and mild infection to severe disease, and later convalescence. Well-designed studies to elucidate the mechanisms and serological correlates of protective immunity will be crucial to guide rational clinical and public health policies.
Face Memory Deficits in Children and Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Face memory is critical for social functioning. Our study examined whether children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have a face memory deficit relative to those with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), another commonly occurring neurodevelopmental condition that is associated with socio-emotional and cognitive deficits. Children and adolescents with ASD and ADHD as well as typically developing (TD) peers were divided into two face-looking time conditions to determine the effect of the duration of looking time on memory for faces. Our goal was to determine whether children and adolescents with ASD would demonstrate poorer face memory skills than their ADHD and TD counterparts, and whether increased face-looking time would improve face memory in children and adolescents in these three diagnostic categories. Results revealed that children and adolescents with ASD exhibit a face memory deficit compared to their ADHD and TD peers that does not improve even after increasing the duration of time spent looking at faces.
Research Activities and Programs

The number of physiologists engaged in research may be estimated on various bases. As indicated in Chapter V (Table V-2), over half of the total professional effort of physiologists is spent on research. As another basis, 43% of the employed respondents to the Survey questionnaire spent six-tenths or more of their time in some type of research (Table VII-1). A third basis is the proportion of those actively engaged in research who work in physiological or non-physiological fields (Table VII-3). Still another is that 87% of all physiologists (3980 respondents, or an estimated actual number of 5010) are actively engaged in research. Of these, approximately 73% are employed in academic institutions, 11% in industry, and 16% in government (Q, II, 117).
Pes Anserine Pain Syndrome

The differential diagnosis in pediatric cases with medial knee pain is broad. One potential cause may be Pes Anserine Pain Syndrome (PAPS). The pes anserinus is a multilayered complex, which lies on the inferior medial aspect of the knee. This complex is comprised of three tendons, which are normally arranged in two layers, with the partially overlapped gracilis and semitendinosus tendons laying inferior to the sartorius tendon. Actual prevalence of PAPS in the pediatric population is unknown, as it has not been well described in literature. Diagnosis is made through careful history and physical exam; however, imaging is recommended to rule out other potentially harmful conditions. Treatment should include physical therapy to strengthen any core, hip, and or knee weakness. Corticosteroids can be considered, if pain persists or as an adjunct to provide a pain-reduced window for the patient to engage in therapy.
A clinical validation of the MR-compatible Delta4 QA system in a 0.35 tesla MR linear accelerator

PURPOSE To validate an MR-compatible version of the ScandiDos Delta4 Phantom+ on a 0.35T MR guided linear accelerator (MR-Linac) system and to determine the effect of plan complexity on the measurement results. METHODS/MATERIALS 36 clinical treatment plans originally delivered on a 0.35T MR linac system were re-planned on the Delta4 Phantom+ MR geometry following our clinical quality assurance (QA) protocol. The QA plans were then measured using the Delta4 Phantom+ MR and the global gamma pass rates were compared to previous results measured using a Sun Nuclear ArcCHECK-MR. Both 3%/3mm and 2%/2mm global gamma pass rates with a 20% dose threshold were recorded and compared. Plan complexity was quantified for each clinical plan investigated using 24 different plan metrics and each metric's correlation with the overall 2%/2mm global gamma pass rate was investigated using Pearson correlation coefficients. RESULTS Both systems demonstrated comparable levels of gamma pass rates at both the 3%/3mm and 2%/2mm level for all plan complexity metrics. Nine plan metrics including area, number of active MLCs, perimeter, edge metric, leaf segment variability, complete irradiation area outline, irregularity, leaf travel index, and unique opening index were moderately (|r| > 0.5) correlated with the Delta4 2%/2mm global gamma pass rates whereas those same metrics had weak correlation with the ArcCHECK-MR pass rates. Only the perimeter to area ratio and small aperture score (20 mm) metrics showed moderate correlation with the ArcCHECK-MR gamma pass rates. CONCLUSIONS The MR-compatible version of the ScandiDos Delta4 Phantom+ MR has been validated for clinical use on a 0.35T MR-Linac with results being comparable to an ArcCHECK-MR system in use clinically for almost five years. Most plan complexity metrics did not correlate with lower 2%/2mm gamma pass rates using the ArcCHECK-MR but several metrics were found to be moderately correlated with lower 2%/2mm global gamma pass rates for the Delta4 Phantom+ MR.
A middle-ware approach to leverage the distributed data de-duplication capability on HPC and Cloud storage systems

The unprecedented growth in the volume and diversity of the data in today’s HPC and Enterprise computing environment has posted challenging problems on data management and data space reduction. More than 71% of enterprise and HPC communities are seeking de-duplication technologies to reduce cost and increase the storage efficiency. The importance of applying data de-duplication techniques is critical for active research and development. Current implementations of data de-duplication systems are mainly hardware dependent, system dependent, and platform dependent. Also, most of these implementations are proprietary software and not in open source domains. In this paper, we present a new middle-ware design and implementation approach, named D3M, to support distributed data de-duplication feature on existing file and object storage systems. We also incorporate this proposed D3M middle-ware with the Redhat’s Linux device layer de-duplication and compression driver, called VDO (Virtual Data Optimizer). With these two layers of data de-duplication support, we accommodate both client side and server-side data de-duplication features. Finally, we conduct various testing cases on HPC data sets and Enterprise data sets to illustrate the benefits and advantages of applying our bilayer data de-duplication middle-ware solution.
A behavioral understanding of stock market return expectations: from evaluation frequency and financial planning horizon perspective

The continued shift to defined contribution plans and individual investment responsibility has made understanding what motivates individual behavior critical. Using 2010-2016 panel data from the Health and Retirement Study, this paper evaluates how stock market evaluation frequency and investment horizon influences stock market return expectations, which in turn influences stock ownership. Those who follow the market somewhat closely believe the probability that the market will fall or rise by more than 20% next year is higher than those who do not follow the market. Those whose financial planning horizon is one year or less have higher expectations the stock market will lose 20% or more next year. Overall expectations of high volatility (average probability the market rises or falls by 20% or more next year) are increased by somewhat closely following the stock market and reduced by longer financial planning timeframes. Higher expectations of the market losing 20% or more results in lower rates of stock ownership. The results of this study contradict the neoclassical assumption that more informed investors would have more accurate stock market expectations. Instead, investors who evaluate the market more frequently increasingly overestimate the probability of both extreme gains and losses. As market expectations influence stock market participation and decision making, financial professionals can help clients reduce myopic and hyperbolic estimation and encourage stock ownership by reducing evaluation frequency and focusing on longer-term planning.
Access to hepatitis C direct-acting antiviral therapy in hepatitis C-positive donor to hepatitis C-negative recipient solid-organ transplantation in a real-world setting.

Abstract Background Emerging data supports expanding the solid organ donor pool with transplantation from hepatitis C virus (HCV)-positive donors into HCV-negative recipients. However, concerns exist regarding the ability to access direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) post-transplant in a real-world setting. Methods This single-center, retrospective study evaluated DAA access rates, time to first dose, and patient cost in donor-derived HCV solid-organ transplant recipients utilizing an integrated specialty pharmacy process. Results Among 91 patients, all accessed DAAs through prescription insurance (97%) or patient assistance programs (3%). Of those who received DAAs through insurance, only 65% received approval on initial insurance submission. Median time from transplant to first dose was 45d [IQR 34–66]. The on-site specialty pharmacy was used by 69% of patients. Copay assistance programs reduced the median monthly patient cost from $1914 [range $7-7536] to $0 [range $0–5]. Conclusion Our findings indicate that access to DAAs in donor-derived HCV post-transplant is achievable and affordable; however, significant added administrative efforts may be required for insurance approval as well as obtaining copay assistance, which is a limited resource.
A Six-level Flying Capacitor Multi-level Converter for Single Phase Buck-type Power Factor Correction

This work investigates behavior of flying capacitor multi-level (FCML) converters in single phase buck-type power factor correction (PFC) applications. Recent developments in FCML converters using GaN transistors are leveraged to improve power density of a single-phase 240 V RMS ac to direct 48 V dc conversion stage in data center power delivery applications. Here, we experimentally demonstrate this concept in a digitally controlled six-level FCML converter hardware prototype. The experimental prototype can deliver 4.5 A average output current at 48 V, resulting in 216 W output power. A key contribution of this work is experimental demonstration of an FCML buck converter in a single-phase PFC application where the flying capacitor voltages follow fractions of the rectified input voltage by swinging at twice-line frequency.
Single-stage saturable inductive-link half-bridge point of load converter

This paper proposes a high-efficiency and high step-down isolated DC-DC converter using a saturable inductor for point-of-load (PoL) converter applications. The saturable reactor helps in reduction of frequency range of peak current control strategy. This method offers enhancement of light load efficiency in addition to soft switching operation throughout the load range. Circuit analysis details of frequency variation of peak current control, using saturable reactor is presented. Effectiveness of the proposed solution is verified in simulation and then validated with experimental results.
Perceptions of Stress among Collegiate Aviation Flight Students

The purpose of this study was to identify student perceptions of stress caused by stressors unique to flight training. The study population consisted of students currently enrolled and actively flying in Aviation Flight courses. Students were administered a survey consisting of three general parts. The first part asked students to rate stressors that they faced and what effect they believe these have on their flight performance. The second part asked respondents to identify stress coping strategies that they employ. The third part requested basic demographic data. Analysis of the data was performed using SPSS version 17.0. Basic descriptive statistics were run, including frequencies, means, and standard deviations. The study found that students in the flight training program at Southern Illinois University Carbondale perceive checkrides/practical tests as the most stressful. This was followed by financial concerns. Other stressors that ranked as moderately stressful included written exams, flight course workload, checkride scheduling, and time management.
WE-AB-204-03: A Novel 3D Printed Phantom for 4D PET/CT Imaging and SIB Radiotherapy Verification

Purpose: To construct and test a 3D printed phantom designed to mimic variable PET tracer uptake seen in lung tumor volumes. To assess segmentation accuracy of sub-volumes of the phantom following 4D PET/CT scanning with ideal and patient-specific respiratory motion. To plan, deliver and verify delivery of PET-driven, gated, simultaneous integrated boost (SIB) radiotherapy plans. Methods: A set of phantoms and inserts were designed and manufactured for a realistic representation of lung cancer gated radiotherapy steps from 4D PET/CT scanning to dose delivery. A cylindrical phantom (40x 120 mm) holds inserts for PET/CT scanning. The novel 3D printed insert dedicated to 4D PET/CT mimics high PET tracer uptake in the core and lower uptake in the periphery. This insert is a variable density porous cylinder (22.12×70 mm), ABS-P430 thermoplastic, 3D printed by uPrint SE Plus with inner void volume (5.5×42 mm). The square pores (1.8×1.8 mm2 each) fill 50% of outer volume, resulting in a 2:1 SUV ratio of PET-tracer in the void volume with respect to porous volume. A matching in size cylindrical phantom is dedicated to validate gated radiotherapy. It contains eight peripheral holes matching the location of the porous part of the 3D printed insert, and one central hole. These holes accommodate adaptors for Farmer-type ion chamber and cells vials. Results: End-to-end test were performed from 4D PET/CT scanning to transferring data to the planning system and target volume delineation. 4D PET/CT scans were acquired of the phantom with different respiratory motion patterns and gating windows. A measured 2:1 18F-FDG SUV ratio between inner void and outer volume matched the 3D printed design. Conclusion: The novel 3D printed phantom mimics variable PET tracer uptake typical of tumors. Obtained 4D PET/CT scans are suitable for segmentation, treatment planning and delivery in SIB gated treatments of NSCLC.
A case of suicide involving the concomitant intravenous injection of barbital and oral ingestion of arsenic.

A case of suicide involving the intravenous injection of barbital and the oral ingestion of arsenic trioxide is reported. The pathologic and toxicologic findings are discussed.
Optimal Basis from Empirical Orthogonal Functions and Wavelet Analysis for Data Assimilation: Optimal Basis WADAi

Wavelet Analysis provides a new orthogonal basis set which is localized in both physical space and Fourier transform space. Empirical Orthogonal Functions (EOFs), on the other hand, provide a global representation of data sets. Here we investigate the various ways in which one can combine these basis sets for optimal representation of data. EOFs represent the global large scale information and wavelet analysis are used to supplement this large scale information with local fine scale information. Here we begin to explore the application of these two basis sets for outputs from an Ocean General Circulation Model and we explore various applications, including data assimilation.
STUDIES IN ACUTE RENAL FAILURE. I. DEVELOPMENT OF A REPRODUCIBLE LESION IN EXPERIMENTAL ANIMALS.

Summary A method is presented for the nontraumatic production of a predictable pigment nephropathy in the rat. This preparation may be graded selectively for specific experimental purposes with respect to incidence, severity and mortality. The contributing features of the setting in which the nephropathy occurs are acid-ash feeding, dehydration and the simultaneous injection of heme pigment and ferrocyanide ion. These features and their interrelationships are explored in some detail. In particular, the combination of heme pigment and ferrocyanide ion is shown to possess a nephrotoxicity greater than that of either material alone. The authors feel that this preparation is suitable for studies relating to the pathogenesis and treatment of acute renal failure.
A Higher Dose of Vitamin D Reduces the Risk of Falls in Nursing Home Residents: A Randomized, Multiple‐Dose Study

OBJECTIVES: To determine the effect of four vitamin D supplement doses on falls risk in elderly nursing home residents. DESIGN: Secondary data analysis of a previously conducted randomized clinical trial. SETTING: Seven hundred twenty-five-bed long-term care facility. PARTICIPANTS: One hundred twenty-four nursing home residents (average age 89). INTERVENTION: Participants were randomly assigned to receive one of four vitamin D supplement doses (200IU, 400IU, 600IU, or 800IU) or placebo daily for 5 months. MEASUREMENTS: Number of fallersand number offalls assessed using facility incident tracking database. RESULTS: Over the 5-month study period, the proportion of participants with falls was 44% in the placebo group (11/ 25), 58% (15/26) in the 200IU group, 60% (15/25) in the 400IU group, 60% (15/25) in the 600IU group, and 20% (5/23) in the 800IU group. Participants in the 800IU group had a 72% lower adjusted-incidence rate ratio of falls than those taking placebo over the 5 months (rate ratio 50.28; 95% confidence interval 50.11‐0.75). No significant differences were observed for the adjusted fall rates compared to placebo in any of the other supplement groups. CONCLUSION: Nursing home residents in the highest vitamin D group (800IU) had a lower number of fallers and a lower incidence rate of falls over 5 months than those taking lower doses. Adequate vitamin D supplementation in elderly nursing home residents could reduce the number of falls experienced by this high falls risk group. JA m Geriatr Soc 55:234–239, 2007.
Systems requirements and prototyping

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY This case study is based on a multi-year information systems plan for a marketing firm. Initially, the investigation was enterprise-wide. We describe the critical components of the enterprise system, including the software and hardware architectures. For the application systems, the accounting system and the job scheduling system receive top priority. Since the accounting system was a commercial off-the-shelf product, our focus was on the development of the job scheduling system. We explain the manual job scheduling process and how the automated system might be developed. The justification for adopting Microsoft’s Access, SQL server, Exchange, and Project as the development tools is presented. Microsoft Access was used just for the prototyping. Eventually, the job scheduling system will be implemented on the Project software with some rewriting of Visual Basic codes. To date, a prototype using Access had been developed and demonstrated. It received favorable comments and has been approved for the next development phase. The case study concludes with remarks on the advantages, issues and lessons learned from the project. IGI PUBLISHING
Genetic population structure of invasive nutria (Myocastor coypus) in Louisiana, USA: is it sufficient for the development of eradication units?

The effective control of invasive mammals, because of their potentially high dispersive capacity, demands an understanding of spatial patterns of gene flow leading to the designation of population units for systematic eradication. Nutria, or coypu (Myocastor coypus), are large, semi-aquatic rodents, originally exported from their native South America for the value of their fur, and are now considered pests on many continents due to overgrazing of wetlands. This study was aimed at assessing the potential for establishing eradication units for the control of nutria in a severely impacted region of the US, southern Louisiana, using nine microsatellite loci, and systematic sampling from each of eight major watershed basins. Unexpectedly high levels of genetic diversity were revealed in comparison to native populations both in terms of numbers of alleles and observed heterozygosities, suggesting that multiple source populations may have originally contributed to the establishment of the Louisiana fur trade, which have subsequently become intermingled. Genetic differentiation among watersheds was nearly undetectable, as evidenced by a very small, albeit significant overall FST value of 0.0059. Interestingly, one of the Bayesian clustering algorithms used in this study identified 11 populations that may represent a fading remnant of the original source populations, although these clusters were not supported by a coherent pattern of geography. Unfortunately, these findings suggest that neither the establishment of locally manageable eradication units, nor the development of biological control agents known for their close association with a single source population will be effective in the control of Louisiana nutria.
Petrologic Study of the Sierra Ancha Sill Complex, Arizona

The Sierra Ancha sill complex is a major high-alumina basaltic intrusive of late Precambrian age in the central Arizona dolerite province. It consists of three zones: lower dolerite, 200 ft; microtroctolite (fine-grained plagioclase-olivine rock with minor coarse-grained poikilitic augite), 235 ft; upper dolerite, 275 ft. Dolerite zones crystallized from high-alumina basaltic magma and are taken to represent parent magma; chilled contacts have been deuterically altered, especially for potassium. The parent magma is similar to late Precambrian high-alumina basaltic magmas that crystallized anorthositic rocks and differs from high-alumina basalts from orogenic regions or major layered intrusions. Sierra Ancha rocks probably correlate with late Precambrian dolerite-sill areas in Grand Canyon, Arizona, Panamint Range, California, and other areas in the southwestern United States, and indicate a large high-alumina basaltic petrologic province. The three zones constitute separate and concordant sills. Microtroctolite is hypothesized to have formed at depth in the magma reservoir by undercooling, rapid nucleation, secondary enlargement, and diffusional interaction of interstitial and overlying magma; this material was intruded as a crystal mush. An alternative hypothesis is that liquid of troctolitic composition developed in the lower portion of the reservoir by liquid fractionation; it was then emplaced and crystallized after under-cooling. The upper dolerite sill differentiated upward from high-alumina basalt to lower alumina basalt by a process of crystallization and diffusion with overlying magma as in the process outlined by Hess (1960). Andesine anorthosite with excellent flow texture, locally found in the lower dolerite, probably formed as a crystal cumulate in the upper part of the reservoir by flotation. Dolerite pegmatite contains deuteric albite as its plagioclase; the deuteric process is analogous to spilitization.
Wayfinding Behaviors in Complex Buildings: The Impact of Environmental Legibility and Familiarity

To contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of human wayfinding behaviors in complex buildings, we propose a framework that incorporates the impact of critical factors from both the environment and humans. The influence of the environment is summarized through the concept of environmental legibility (EL), an integration of different space syntax methods that addresses visibility, connectivity, and layout complexity of buildings. Human factors are assessed through psychometric tests, self-ratings for sense of direction, and a report of familiarity. To test this framework, we conducted behavioral experiments involving 24 novices and 28 experts. Three different processes of wayfinding—wayfinding performance, acquisition of spatial knowledge, and development of spatial awareness—were measured and evaluated. Results show that EL and individual differences impact all three processes. There is a predominant impact of EL on wayfinding performance and the development of spatial awareness. Not surprisingly, familiarity has a predominant impact on the acquisition of spatial knowledge.
Thermal Properties of Binary Mixtures of Liquid Crystals. A Review

Abstract Owing to their wide range of industrial utility, binary systems of liquid crystals are currently a topic of extensive studies. This paper is a comprehensive review of the literature from 1973, where the review of Hsu et al. 95 ended, through mid-1981. For simplification, the organization used here is similar to that incorporated in the previous review. Because of the volumes of literature on mesophase systems, this study includes only binary mesophase systems in which both components are thermotropic mesogens. Included here are only those systems for which phase diagrams have been constructed or systems which are similar to those whose phase diagrams have been constructed. Much of the work on binary mixtures is done by industrial applications specialists and thus was not available for this review. Inevitably, there will be omissions from published work, although every attempt was made to include all of the available literature.
A comparison of vascular vegetation and protozoan communities in some freshwater wetlands of Northern Lower Michigan

Vascular vegetation and protozoan communities were sampled in seven wetland sites — two bogs, two fens, two marshes, and one ‘swamp’ — in summer 1977. Two similarity indices were used to compare vascular vegetation and Protozoa from each site with all the other sites. Bog sites were the most distinct from other wetland types with respect to chemical and physical characteristics, dominant vascular vegetation, and protozoan species composition. The ‘swamp’ site had the highest similarity to all other sites with respect to both dominant vascular vegetation and protozoan species. Protozoan communities from different wetland types were much more similar than dominant vascular species; however, the pattern of similarity between wetland sites was very similar for both groups (Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient = 0.76).
Using ChIP-chip and ChIP-seq to study the regulation of gene expression: genome-wide localization studies reveal widespread regulation of transcription elongation

Transcription is a sophisticated multi-step process in which RNA polymerase II (Pol II) transcribes a DNA template into RNA in concert with a broad array of transcription initiation, elongation, capping, termination, and histone modifying factors. Recent global analyses of Pol II distribution have indicated that many genes are regulated during the elongation phase, shedding light on a previously underappreciated mechanism for controlling gene expression. Understanding how various factors regulate transcription elongation in living cells has been greatly aided by chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) studies, which can provide spatial and temporal resolution of protein-DNA binding events. The coupling of ChIP with DNA microarray and high-throughput sequencing technologies (ChIP-chip and ChIP-seq) has significantly increased the scope of ChIP studies and genome-wide maps of Pol II or elongation factor binding sites can now be readily produced. However, while ChIP-chip/ChIP-seq data allow for high-resolution localization of protein-DNA binding sites, they are not sufficient to dissect protein function. Here we describe techniques for coupling ChIP-chip/ChIP-seq with genetic, chemical, and experimental manipulation to obtain mechanistic insight from genome-wide protein-DNA binding studies. We have employed these techniques to discern immature promoter-proximal Pol II from productively elongating Pol II, and infer a critical role for the transition between initiation and full elongation competence in regulating development and gene induction in response to environmental signals.
Functional Sequences Modulated by Morphological Transitions in Human Lymphoid Cells Grown in vitro

Immunoglobulin-producing cells undergo a series of morphological transitions; each configuration displays specific functional attributes. The life cycle of immunocytes may be visualized as a series of functional compartments expressed by morphological sequences.
Efficiency Analysis of Dairy Farms in the Province of Izmir (Turkey): Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA)

Abstract Candemir, M. and Koyubenbe, N. 2006. Efficiency analysis of dairy farms in the province of Izmir (Turkey): data envelopment analysis (DEA). J. Appl. Anim. Res., 29: 61–64. The production efficiency of dairy farms based on cross section data of 2003 covering 80 farms chosen by the method of proportional sampling, was determined by Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) using three outputs and seven inputs. Fortynine percent of the dairy farms appeared to be fully efficient according to the assumption of constant return to scale (CRS). The average efficiency indices obtained under CRS and variable return to scale (VRS) were 0.934 and 0.954, respectively. Mean scale efficiency, on the other hand, was 0.978. Out of the selected dairy farms 21.2% were observed to be efficient in measuring the efficiency of single output milk production. Average efficiency indices under CRS and VRS and scale efficiency index were measured to be 0.782, 0.832 and 0.938, respectively. This information will contribute to extensiv...
Groupware and social networks: will life ever be the same again?

Abstract Over the past twenty years industry and academia have been working to develop computer systems to increase work group's productivity, commonly referred to as groupware. Groupware encompasses a broad spectrum of research and development including group support systems, computer-supported collaborative work, group decision support systems, and computer mediated collaboration. Applications arising out of these efforts included concurrent multi-user authoring systems, computer conferencing, integrated computer/video meeting systems, electronic voting, brainstorming, and workflow systems. The papers in this special issue are some of the best from over 100 papers submitted to the GROUP'97 conference sponsored by the ACM Special Interest Group on Supporting Group Work. They represent work conducted by researchers on four continents from both industry and academia. As a group the authors present a blend of theory, practice, and technological innovation from the groupware research arena. This paper is intended to serve as an introduction to the area of groupware research and development. In it we explore the evolution of groupware and expose some of its effects on organizations and society.
Transaction Costs and Host-Group Rivalry in Foreign Economic Policy: Evidence from Five North American Fisheries

This article shows that the timing and nature of policies hostile to foreign direct investment stem both from the transaction costs of negotiating with different host country agencies, and from changes to domestic and international coalitions. Divided agency jurisdiction is modeled as a partial property right to the use of a resource. Host industries lacking political cohesion allow foreign firms economic opportunities and a stronger political voice. Qualitative and quantitative evidence from five fisheries in the United States and Canada confirm that the costs of negotiating with a fractured government and the opportunity to form transnational coalitions lead host countries to adopt policies that will facilitate forced divestment. These policies vary in respect to their timing and format. Resum6. Cet article demontre que la nature de meme que l'6cheancier d'adoption d'une politique hostile a l'investissement direct 6tranger d6coulent des coots de transaction de la n6gociation avec les diff6rentes agences des pays h6tes, de meme que des changements qui interviennent dans les coalitions domestiques et internationales concern6es. La division de juridiction entre diverses agences est analysee comme impliquant un droit de propri6t6 partiel pour l'usage d'une ressource. Les industries h6tes qui manquent de cohesion politique fournissent des opportunit6s 6conomiques autant qu'une voix politique plus forte aux firmes 6trangeres. Des preuves qualitatives et quantitatives recueillies dans cinq entreprises de peches aux Etats-Unis et au Canada confirment que les coots de n6gociation avec un gouvernement fracture, de meme que la possibilit6 de former des coalitions transnationales, amenent les pays h6tes a adopter des politiques dont la nature et l'6ch6ancier d'adoption varient polur faciliter le d6sinvestissement forc6. With the obsolescing bargain as a backdrop, the structure of host-country institutions and the opportunities for transnational coalitions play the leading role in determining if, why and how forced divestitures will be carried out. It is the political process that frames the choice between contract failure or continued foreign investments under more assertive regulation. Table I shows the last year of foreign harvesting in host-state waters and the primary motivation for the abrupt end or continued presence of foreign fishers for the five regions under study.' Influenced by the structure of interests and institutions, opportunities for transnational coalitions best predict where and how long multinational resource firms will continue to operate.
Involvement of dopamine D2 autoreceptors in the ventral tegmental area on alcohol and saccharin intake of the alcohol-preferring P rat.

Background: The ventral tegmental area (VTA) dopamine (DA) system is considered to be involved in mediating the actions of ethanol (EtOH). The objective of the present study was to examine the role of VTA DA D 2 receptors in regulating EtOH intake of alcohol-preferring P rats. Methods: EtOH (10% v/v) and saccharin (SACC, 0.0125% g/v) intake during 2 hr of limited access was assessed after microinjections of the D 2 agonist quinpirole and the D 2 antagonist sulpiride into the anterior VTA (AVTA) of female P rats. Both EtOH-SACC alternate-day-access conditions and daily availability of EtOH and SACC solutions to separate groups of subjects were used. A second D 2 agonist, quinelorane, and coadministration of 2.0 μg sulpiride with 2.0 μg quinpirole were tested in animals given limited access to EtOH. Finally, the effects of quinpirole injected 2 mm dorsal to the VTA and within the posterior VTA (PVTA) were assessed under EtOH-SACC alternate-day-access conditions. Results: Microinjections of 2.0-6.0 μg quinpirole into the AVTA dose dependently decreased EtOH intake 40-80% during the first 30 min of the limited access sessions but did not alter SACC intake. Injections of 2.0-4.0 μg quinelorane into the AVTA also reduced EtOH intake in the first 30 min. Administration of 0.5-2.0 μg sulpiride into the AVTA had no effect on either EtOH or SACC intakes but did attenuate the effects of quinpirole on reducing EtOH intake. Injections of 2.0-4.0 quinpirole 2 mm dorsal to the VTA did not alter EtOH or SACC intakes. Posterior VTA injections of quinpirole decreased EtOH and SACC intakes approximately 25-30% and 60-70%, respectively, in the first 30 min. None of the treatments altered intakes during the 30-120 min period. Conclusions: The data suggest that DA neuronal activity within the AVTA may be important for maintaining EtOH drinking in P rats, whereas DA neuronal activity within the PVTA may be involved in regulating general drinking and/or motivational behaviors. Overall, the results confirm the involvement of mesolimbic DA in EtOH self-administration and suggest that there is functional heterogeneity within the VTA regulating drinking behavior of the P rat.
Bounding space usage of conservative garbage collectors

Conservative garbage collectors can automatically reclaim unused memory in the absence of precise pointer location information. If a location can possibly contain a pointer, it is treated by the collector as though it contained a pointer. Although it is commonly assumed that this can lead to unbounded space use due to misidentified pointers, such extreme space use is rarely observed in practice, and then generally only if the number of misidentified pointers is itself unbounded.We show that if the program manipulates only data structures satisfying a simple GC-robustness criterion, then a bounded number of misidentified pointers can at most result in increasing space usage by a constant factor. We argue that nearly all common data structures are already GC-robust, and it is typically easy to identify and replace those that are not. Thus it becomes feasible to prove space bounds on programs collected by mildly conservative garbage collectors, such as the one in [2]. The worst-case space overhead introduced by such mild conservatism is comparable to the worst-case fragmentation overhead for inherent in any non-moving storage allocator.The same GC-robustness criterion also ensures the absence of temporary space leaks of the kind discussed in [13] for generational garbage collectors.