cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Vitamin Requirements of Beef Cattle

Publisher Summary Vitamins are organic compounds which are required for normal growth and maintenance of life in animals. Vitamins are explained in detail in this chapter. Vitamin A is involved in a generalized maintenance of epithelial tissue. The first observable vitamin A deficiency symptom is decreased growth, which also could be the result of a number of factors, including genetics and energy or protein deficiency. Beef cattle usually receive sufficient vitamin D from exposure to direct sunlight or from sun-cured feedstuffs. Vitamin D is critical for normal adsorption of calcium and phosphorus from the gut. Deficiency of vitamin D in growing animals results ultimately in external symptoms characterized by deformed bones and excess deposit of cartilage in the usual areas of bone growth. Vitamin E has wide distribution in nature; especially rich sources are the germs of seeds. Muscular dystrophy is the most common manifestation of a vitamin E deficiency in farm animals. Vitamin K is concerned primarily with blood coagulation. Water-soluble vitamins often are assumed to be synthesized in sufficient quantities by cattle with a developed rumen. Water soluble vitamins include thiamin, vitamin B12 and other B-vitamins. Thiamin (vitamin B1) should be synthesized in sufficient quantities in the rumen. Vitamin B12 should be synthesized in the rumen in adequate quantities. Vitamin B12 may cause improved growth performance in feeder cattle on high concentrate diets.
Comparison of Viable and Betapropiolactone-Treated Orthotopic Homologous Aortic Valves in Dogs: A Four-Year Follow-up

Abstract Orthotopic homograft single-cusp replacement of the aortic valve was done in 40 dogs. The report is focused on alterations in 12 late specimens procured between 20 and 40 months after transplantation. Connective tissue coverings on leaflets became shorter and thinner in later specimens, and tissue appearance became more compact and dense. Despite initial excellent results and absence of destructive host connective tissue invasions in the leaflet even in late periods after transplantation, betapropiolactone-sterilized valves underwent severe degeneration of leaflet collagen and elastic fibers with marked round-cell infiltrations. Viable grafts demonstrated mild changes in collagen and elastic fibers and showed the presence of donor leaflet cells for 31 months. However, an increase in round cells in the leaflet and shifts of cartilaginous metaplastic areas toward the leaflet base from the host-graft junction created some concern.
The EGF/TGFα Receptor in Skin

In responsive cells, all known effects of epidermal growth factor (EGF), transforming growth factor alpha (TGF alpha), and related proteins are mediated through binding to a specific membrane receptor. The EGF/TGF alpha receptor is a single-chain glycoprotein (1186 amino acids) containing three functional domains: 1) an extracellular, glycosylated portion that binds EGF; 2) a small transmembrane portion; and 3) a cytoplasmic portion that has the intrinsic tyrosine kinase activity and multiple sites that can be phosphorylated. When EGF binds to the receptor its intrinsic tyrosine kinase is activated, resulting in increased phosphorylation of intracellular tyrosine residues both on the receptor (autophosphorylation sites) and on exogenous proteins involved in regulating cellular functions. Site-specific mutagenesis has established that the tyrosine-kinase activity of the receptor is essential for nearly all of the effects of EGF including its ability to elevate cellular calcium levels and to induce DNA synthesis. The binding of EGF and the kinase activity of the receptor are both regulated by the phosphorylation of the receptor on specific threonine/serine sites catalyzed by other protein kinases. Specific lipids such as sphingosine also can regulate kinase activity. Tyrosine-specific phosphoprotein phosphatases and perhaps proteases must be important in terminating the cellular response to EGF. In human skin, the response to EGF/TGF alpha is determined by the location and number of receptors and is modulated by processes affecting the binding affinity, internalization, and tyrosine-kinase activity of the receptor. Specific patterns of EGF binding and of immunoreactive receptors characterize normal growth and differentiation and these are altered during the abnormal growth and differentiation associated with diseases such as psoriasis, viral infections, neoplasms, and paraneoplastic syndromes. It is not clear if the altered patterns reflect the consequence of the disease or are the cause of the disease. As a cause, the EGF receptor may have undetected point mutations that result in internalization and degradation defects, aberrant phosphorylation, and dephosphorylation or abnormal glycosylation.
Mitral valve prolapse and sudden cardiac arrest in the community

Background Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is relatively common in the general population with recently reported prevalence of 1% and familial clustering (Framingham Heart Study). However, its association with ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) remains controversial. Objectives The purpose of this study was to characterize the frequency and clinical profile of patients with MVP who suffer SCA in the community. Methods Patients with SCA cases were prospectively identified in the population-based Oregon Sudden Unexpected Death Study (population ~1 million). The presence of MVP was identified from echocardiograms recorded prior but unrelated to the SCA event. The detailed clinical profile of patients with SCA and MVP was compared with that of SCA patients without MVP to identify potential differences. Results A total of 729 SCA patients were evaluated over a 12-year period (mean age 69.5 ± 14.8 years; 64.6% men). MVP was observed in 17 (2.3%) prior to the SCA event (95% confidence interval 1.2%–3.4%). Mitral regurgitation was present in 14 SCA patients with MVP (82.3%) and was moderate or severe in 10 (58.8%). Compared with SCA patients without MVP, SCA patients with MVP were younger (mean age 60.9 ± 16.4 years vs 69.7 ± 14.7 years; P = .02), with fewer risk factors (diabetes 5.9% vs 46.4%; P = .001; hypertension 41.2% vs 78.9%; P = .001) or known coronary disease (29.4% vs 65.6%; P Conclusion MVP was observed in a small proportion (2.3%) of SCA patients in the general population, suggesting a low risk overall. Since SCA patients with MVP were characterized by younger age and relatively low cardiovascular comorbidity, a focus on imaging for valve structure/insufficiency as well as genetics could aid future risk stratification approaches.
Neutron Electric Dipole Moment and Tensor Charges from Lattice QCD

We present lattice QCD results on the neutron tensor charges including, for the first time, a simultaneous extrapolation in the lattice spacing, volume, and light quark masses to the physical point in the continuum limit. We find that the "disconnected" contribution is smaller than the statistical error in the "connected" contribution. Our estimates in the modified minimal subtraction scheme at 2 GeV, including all systematics, are g_{T}^{d-u}=1.020(76), g_{T}^{d}=0.774(66), g_{T}^{u}=-0.233(28), and g_{T}^{s}=0.008(9). The flavor diagonal charges determine the size of the neutron electric dipole moment (EDM) induced by quark EDMs that are generated in many new scenarios of CP violation beyond the standard model. We use our results to derive model-independent bounds on the EDMs of light quarks and update the EDM phenomenology in split supersymmetry with gaugino mass unification, finding a stringent upper bound of d_{n}<4×10^{-28} e cm for the neutron EDM in this scenario.
Physiological Function of the Hemerythrins

The hemerythrins (Hrs), the least understood of the O2 carriers, are found in four phyla of infaunal marine animals. They may occur throughout the Priapulida and the Sipuncula, and they are at least widespread in the Brachiopoda. However, they are found in only one of the many families of polychaetous annelids, the monogeneric Magelonidae (where they are probably ubiquitous). At a gross level the phyletic distribution is not especially difficult to understand because all four phyla are at an intermediate level of organization and possibly close relatives. The available structural information strongly supports a hypothesis of common origin of at least the sipunculan and brachiopod Hrs (see, Chap. 6, this Vol; Richardson et al. 1987). However, the occurrence in magelonid annelids defies a simple evolutionary explanation since the family is not regarded as primitive. Furthermore, the primitive annelid O2 carrier is believed to be a red blood cell hemoglobin (Hb). At present, it is difficult to eliminate the possibility that annelid Hr had a separate origin. Alternatively, Manwell and Baker (1988) recently suggested that the annelids and sipunculids may not be distinct phyla, a rejuvenation of 19th century classification; the hypothesis is supported by the common subunit size of annelid and sipunculid (as well as brachipod) Hrs, which is not very different from the figure mentioned by Weber et al. (1979) for priapulid Hr. Regrettably, little is known of the developmental biology of the Hr-containing annelids.
The prefrontal cortex of the primate: A synopsis

The prefrontal cortex is one of the latest regions of the neocortex to develop, in both phylogeny and ontogeny. In the primate, the prefrontal cortex is anatomically divided into three major sectors: medial, orbital (or inferior), and dorsolateral. The dorsolateral sector is the association cortex of the convexity of the frontal lobe. Phylogenetically and ontogenetically, this part of the prefrontal cortex is the one to develop last and most. It is the neural substrate of the higher cognitive functions that reach their maximum development in the human brain. The most general and distinctive function of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex is the temporal organization of goal-directed actions. In the human, this role extends to the domains of speech and reasoning. Two temporally symmetrical and mutually complementary cognitive functions—one retrospective and the other prospective—support that general prefrontal function of temporal organization: (1) active short-term memory, also called working memory; (2) prospective or preparatory set. The dorsolateral prefrontal cortex interacts with other cortical and subcortical structures in those two time-bridging functions at the basis of the temporal organization of behavior.
Inhibition of Grb2 expression demonstrates an important role in BCR-ABL-mediated MAPK activation and transformation of primary human hematopoietic cells.

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) results from the expression of the BCR/ABL oncogene in a primitive hematopoietic cell. However, BCR/ABL-activated signaling mechanisms are dependent on the cellular context in which it is expressed, and mechanisms underlying primitive human hematopoietic cell transformation by BCR–ABL are not well understood. Our previous studies have shown that BCR/ABL-Y177 has an essential role in Ras activation and human hematopoietic progenitor transformation in CML. The adapter protein growth factor receptor-binding protein-2 (Grb2) can bind phosphorylated BCR/ABL-Y177, induce Grb2-SoS complex formation and activate Ras signaling. We investigated the role of Grb2 in CML progenitor transformation by cotransducing human CD34+ cells with lentivirus vectors expressing short hairpin RNA to Grb2 and retrovirus vectors expressing BCR/ABL. We show that Grb2 knockdown significantly inhibits proliferation and survival of BCR–ABL-expressing CD34+ cells, but not control CD34+ cells. Grb2 knockdown reduced mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activity in BCR–ABL-expressing hematopoietic cells. We conclude that inhibition of Grb2 expression demonstrates an important role in BCR–ABL-mediated MAPK activation and transformation of primary human hematopoietic cells.These results support further investigation of downstream effectors of Grb2-mediated signals and targeting of Grb2 interactions in the treatment of CML.
A Literature Update on Maternal-Fetal Attachment

ABSTRACT Objective To critically review and synthesize original research published since 2000 designed to measure factors that influence maternal-fetal attachment. Data Sources EBSCOhost Research Databases that included PubMed, CINAHL Plus, PsycINFO, and SCOPUS were searched for journal articles published in the past 7 years (2000-2007) that examined variables thought to increase, decrease, or cause no change in level of maternal-fetal attachment. Keyword searches included maternal-fetal attachment, parental attachment, and prenatal attachment. Study Selection Twenty-two studies were selected that met the inclusion criteria of original research, clear delineation of the measurement of maternal-fetal attachment, measurement of maternal-fetal attachment during pregnancy, and inclusion of women or couples, or both. Data Extraction Studies measuring maternal-fetal attachment included a broad range of variables as potential risk or protective factors, or both. Factors associated with higher levels of maternal-fetal attachment included family support, greater psychological well-being, and having an ultrasound performed. Factors such as depression, substance abuse, and higher anxiety levels were associated with lower levels of maternal-fetal attachment. Data Synthesis The large majority of studies reviewed were limited by small, homogenous samples deemed insufficient to detect significant differences, inconsistent measurement of maternal-fetal attachment during gestational periods, and cross-sectional designs. Conclusions Further research is essential to identify factors influencing maternal-fetal attachment. Specifically, research needs to be conducted on larger sample sizes of greater racial and ethnic diversity.
Using Objects to Model Finite Deformation Plasticity

An object-oriented finite element framework has been developed for the Lagrangian analysis of thermoplasticity coupled with ductile damage at finite strains. The paper presents the development of a general reusable and extensible class structure that allows for the easy implementation, testing and maintenance of various algorithms for the constitutive, kinematic and contact subproblems of the deformation problem, as well as for heat transfer analysis. A forming example is presented to demonstrate the ability of the developed simulator to model hot forming of microporous materials.
Determinants of the number of welfare recipients

Recently, welfare reform has received considerable attention because welfare programs (WPs) are costly, reduce work incentives, cause marital breakups, and result in the recipients' loss of selfesteem. Bassi [EI, 1990], Burtless [JEP, 1990], Chambers [JPE, 1989], Mueller [WSJ, 1993], and Gueron [JEP, 1990] evaluated the efficacy of WPs. De Borger [JPE, 1989] examined the welfare implications of in-kind programs. Garfinkel et al. [JHR, 1990] and Graham [CPI, 1990] investigated the relationship between child support and employment prospects of welfare recipients. This note examines the impact of monthly cash benefits, labor market conditions, family unity, and income on the number of AFDC recipients. It is hypothesized that the number of welfare recipients (WEL) is positively related to monthly cash benefits (BEN), tightness of labor markets, marital dissolution, and financial strength to support WPs. For estimation, tightness of the labor market is proxied by the unemployment rate (UNR), family dissolution is measured by the divorce rate (DIV), and society's financial strength is captured by real per capita income (INC). Rationale for the inclusion of these variables is as follows: higher BEN increases the reservation wage and thereby diminishes incentives to work. Increased UNR raises the probability to remain on welfare because of fewer job opportunities and it forces the newly unemployed to obtain welfare. A rise in DIV increases single parents who may become eligible for financial assistance. Higher INC means enhanced public ability to support WPs. However, higher INC is expected to lower poverty and thus decrease WEL. Therefore, INC's sign may be positive or negative. Data for the 1961-91 time period came from the Social Security Bulletin and the Statistical Abstract of the U.S. To reduce multicollinearity, the dependent variable is expressed as the ratio of AFDC families to total families in the U.S. BEN t and INC t are in 1982 dollars, with INC t being in thousands. The log-linear form is chosen because of its superior performance. Autocorrelation was tested and corrected, p is 0.860 and is significant at the 1 percent level. The results are reported below:
Mechanisms of CNS response to systemic immune challenge: the febrile response

The acute-phase reaction is the multisystem response to acute inflammation. The central nervous system (CNS) mediates a coordinated set of autonomic, endocrine and behavioral responses that constitute the cerebral component of the acute-phase reaction. However, the mechanisms of immune signaling of the CNS remain controversial. Emerging evidence indicates that different parts of the acute-phase reaction are initiated by distinct mechanisms and in different brain regions. Cytokines produced as a result of local infections (for example, in the abdominal or thoracic cavities) might activate vagal sensory fibers, resulting in sickness behavior and fevers. Additionally, circulating immune stimuli might activate meningeal macrophages and perivascular microglia along the borders of the brain, eliciting the local production of prostaglandins and responses such as fever, anorexia, sleepiness, and activation of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. The biological importance of these responses might favor the existence of multiple parallel CNS pathways that are engaged by cytokines.
Efficient estimation in some missing data problems

Abstract Efficient estimation of regression and scale parameters is considered in the setup of missing data resulting from i.i.d. copies of (X,Y,Z) where we observe X always, observe (Y,Z) only if X belongs to a known set A, and, where, for a (β,σ)ϵ R k ×(0,∞) , (X, (Y−β T Z) σ ,Z) have distribution F×F×H. Efficient estimators for (β, σ) are constructed under very mild conditions on F and H.
Exploring the microscopic origin of magnetic anisotropies with X-ray magnetic circular dichroism (XMCD) spectroscopy

Symmetry breaking and bonding at interfaces leads to a variety of anisotropy phenomena in transition metal sandwiches and multilayers. The charge density, the spin density and the orbital moment become anisotropic. These effects can be studied by the X-ray magnetic circular dichroism (XMCD) technique which senses the local anisotropy of charge, spin and angular momentum around an atom that is excited by the absorption of polarized X-rays. Here we briefly review the principles of the technique and then apply it to the study of the thickness-dependent electronic and magnetic properties of a Co film sandwiched between Au. The experimental results are compared to those obtained by electronic structure calculations for a free Co monolayer and a Co monolayer sandwiched between Au. In particular, a simple ligand field model is developed which allows one to visualize the origin of the magnetocrystalline anisotropy in terms of the preferred direction of the orbital moment, corresponding to the direction of maximum size. The model supports the intuitive picture that the orbital moment on an atom becomes anisotropic through quenching effects by the anisotropic ligand fields of the neighbors.
The time resolved emission spectra of peptide conformers measured by pulsed laser excitation

Abstract The fluorescence decays of a number of peptides were measured using pulsed laser excitation and time correlated single photon counting techniques. In all cases double exponential kinetics were observed with the short lifetime component (0.5 – 0.85 ns) predominating over the long lifetime componet (1.62 – 2.21 ns). The lifetimes varied with the peptides measured. The time resolved emission spectra of LysTrpLys shows both components have similar spectral maxima at 345 nm. It is suggested that the dual exponential kinetics originate from different conformers of the peptides.
Metabolism of Radiostrontium in Young Pigs and in Lactating Rats Fed Stable Strontium

Summary Lactating rats fed stable strontium retained more radiostrontium, and carcasses of their young contained significantly more radiostrontium, than the lactating rats and their offspring which did not receive stable strontium. Results of these experiments were compared to the effect of stable strontium on the absorption of radiostrontium observed in other species. The effect of feeding stable strontium for ten days before the radiostrontium meal was not significantly different from feeding stable strontium simultaneously with radiostrontium. Feeding Hampshire pigs 21 days of age a ration containing 0.67% stable strontium, with 0.16 or 0.89% calcium, increased the amount of radiostrontium in the feces fourfold during the seven days after administration of radiostrontium. The amount of the absorbed radiostrontium appearing in the urine of the pigs fed strontium was about twice that of pigs not receiving strontium. The concentration of calcium in the diet had no marked effect on the quantity of radiostrontium in the urine and feces. Feeding stable strontium reduced the skeletal retention of radiostrontium three- to fourfold.
A politics in search of the political

As with most of his work, Jurgen Habermas' newest book, Legitimationsprobleme im Spdtkapitalismus is both programmatic and provocative. Habermas brings together a wealth of material and theoretical argumentation drawn mainly from the collective research efforts of the Max Planck Institut in Starnberg, of which he is co-director. In this sense, the book is a report to the public on the Institut's activities.1 The goal of Habermas' work is, however, broader. He sees the need to develop a theory which will serve both to guide and understand current research1 a, and at the same time to suggest the types of political activity which are possible and meaningful in modem capitalism. Underlying both of these is Habermas' remarkable stress on the power of reason as a tool for analysis and as that which, ultimately, constitutes our uniqueness as humans. His particular project is that of Enlightenment. The analysis of modem capitalism attempts to show why this "old European idea" has retained and even increased its actuality.
Noncatalytic Assembly of Ribonuclease III with Double-Stranded RNA

Ribonuclease III (RNase III) represents a family of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) endonucleases. The simplest bacterial enzyme contains an endonuclease domain (endoND) and a dsRNA binding domain (dsRBD). RNase III can affect RNA structure and gene expression in either of two ways: as a dsRNA-processing enzyme that cleaves dsRNA, or as a dsRNA binding protein that binds but does not cleave dsRNA. We previously determined the endoND structure of Aquifex aeolicus RNase III (Aa-RNase III) and modeled a catalytic complex of full-length Aa-RNase III with dsRNA. Here, we present the crystal structure of Aa-RNase III in complex with dsRNA, revealing a noncatalytic assembly. The major differences between the two functional forms of RNase III.dsRNA are the conformation of the protein and the orientation and location of dsRNA. The flexibility of a 7 residue linker between the endoND and dsRBD enables the transition between these two forms.
Emerging themes in SecA2-mediated protein export

The conserved general secretion (Sec) pathway carries out most protein export in bacteria and is powered by the essential ATPase SecA. Interestingly, mycobacteria and some Gram-positive bacteria possess two SecA proteins: SecA1 and SecA2. In these species, SecA1 is responsible for exporting most proteins, whereas SecA2 exports only a subset of substrates and is implicated in virulence. However, despite the impressive body of knowledge about the canonical SecA1, less is known concerning SecA2 function. Here, we review our current understanding of the different types of SecA2 systems and outline future directions for their study.
A component damping identification method for mistuned blisks

Abstract Different components of a structure can have different damping characteristics, and that affects the dynamic response of the overall system. Herein, we assume that damping has a simple form only at a component level. That leads to a complex damping model at a system level. A new method is introduced which identifies the component damping of a structure. This method is applied to mistuned blisks in regions of low and high modal density. The method incorporates reduced-order models, and remains accurate in the presence of measurement noise. Results are shown for a mistuned blisk with varying levels of measurement noise. The accuracy of damping identification is observed through a forced response prediction and amplification factor study. Also, a discussion on the effects of damping and stiffness mistuning on the maximum response is presented. Some differences between component and modal damping are highlighted.
Prevention of Anatomic Defects in Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Produced by Estradiol-17 β in Rats

ABSTRACT The production of hypospadias, clitoral hypertrophy and adrenal hyperplasia with deficient activity of 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase by large doses of estradiol-17β (similar to the production of these defects by a C-19 substrate analog) has suggested that these fetal effects of estradiol-17β are due to inhibition of fetal testicular synthesis of testosterone or testosterone-like steroids, and of adrenal synthesis of corticosterone at the level of this enzyme. This hypothesis was tested by determining the effects of testosterone or corticosterone administered to pregnant females treated with estradiol-17β from the 15th to 20th days of gestation. In the mothers, testosterone did not affect either the marked adrenal and ovarian hyperplasia, or the reduced specific activity of the dehydrogenase in these glands produced by estradiol-17β, while corticosterone reduced only the adrenal hyperplasia produced by this estrogen. In the male fetus, testosterone reduced the production of hypospadias by estrad...
Giving all children a chance: advantages of an antiracist approach to education for deaf children.

This paper begins with the assumption that racism exists and influences educational policy and curricula in American schools, including schools for deaf children, and discusses how a multicultural approach to educating deaf children is often limited to the description of ethnic differences. What is also needed is an antiracist approach to education that addresses the social and political ramifications of ethnic differences. It is suggested that schools for the deaf are in a strategic position to respond to the inadequacy of American schools to educate deaf children of color.
Some thoughts on scalar diffraction theory

Lens designers are required to design the nearly aberration-free optics in order to meet the extremely high specification of the system. Besides the wavefront aberration generated by the lens, we should understand that an image degradation is introduced not only by the lens but also on the object or image plane. This means that the aberration-free image is not the ideal image. This discrepancy is described considering the vector nature of the light.
A little slower, but just as good: postgraduate year resident versus attending outcomes in laparoscopic ventral hernia repair

The purpose of this study was to analyze the effect of residents on patient outcomes in laparoscopic ventral hernia repair (LVHR).We hypothesized that increasing postgraduate year (PGY) level would correlate with better outcomes. The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was queried from 2005 to 2011 for elective LVHR. Attending only cases were used as the control, and resident cases were stratified into junior (PGY 1–3), chief (4–5), and fellow (6+) cases. Standard statistical tests and multivariate regression controlling for age, body mass index, Charlson comorbidity index, smoking, functional status, and inpatient cases were performed for trainee involvement and PGY level. There were 6,841 ventral hernia repairs that met inclusion criteria: 2,773 attending and 4,068 resident cases. There were 1,644 junior, 1,983 chief, and 441 fellow cases. Patients were similar between the attending and resident groups. The resident group had a higher rate of inpatient cases, general complications, longer operative time, and hospital length of stay. After controlling for confounders in multivariate analysis, only operative time was significantly different; resident cases were 17.7 min longer (CI 15.0–20.6; p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in the rate of wound or major complications, readmission, reoperation, or mortality between attending and resident cases. Demographics were not significantly different between the PGY level strata. On multivariate regression by PGY level with attending alone as the reference, only operative time was significantly different. Juniors (15.7 min, CI 12.2–19.2), chiefs (18.0 min, CI 14.7–21.3), and fellows (24.9 min, CI 19.1–30.7) had significantly longer cases than attending alone; all p < 0.001. Trainee involvement during LVHR does not change the clinical outcomes for patients as compared to those performed by an attending only. Operative time is significantly longer with increasing PGY level, perhaps indicating the complexity of the operation or increasing trainee involvement as primary surgeon. However, patient care does not suffer, affirming the current surgical training curriculum is appropriate.
On biography in marketing

Purpose – The purpose of this article is to advance biographical work in marketing, to summarize the status of biography in marketing, and to illustrate the process with an example of a developing study.Design/methodology/approach – The article is based on a literature review of biography and a brief review of biography in marketing; the article illustrates biographical research and writing.Findings – The discussion introduces approaches for undertaking marketing biography, especially the challenges of developing information, assessing its quality, as well as methods for telling the story.Research limitations/implications – Biography is a “flawed process”. It is difficult to fully elaborate the scope of biography in a journal length article let alone apply the principles. Some topics are shortened, others are hinted at, and others are omitted but the discussion points the way to undertaking biography.Originality/value – This article introduces contemporary elements for the development of marketing biograp...
A caveat on the use of rating scales to assess masculinity and femininity

Sixty occupations were rated for degree of masculinity and femininity on four different rating scales: a bipolar Femininity-Masculinity scale (Fem-Masc); a unipolar Femininity scale (Fem); a unipolar Masculinity scale (Masc); and a percent of each sex in an occupation scale (% Sex). High correlations were found among all four rating scales for both sexes, suggesting that subjects view masculinity and femininity measured by rating scales as unidimensional. Males and females also agreed on relative rankings of the occupations on the scales. It was concluded that since personality inventory measures of masculinity and femininity are not unidimensional, rating scale approaches to measuring masculinity and femininity may give misleading results.
On the Significance of War, or Why Conquest is Not Necessarily Conquest: The Case of the Nineteenth-Century United States-Mexican Border

One strand of recent work on the nineteenth-century borderlands between the United States and Mexico attempts to overturn Anglo-American conventional wisdom by turning heroes into villains. Another, more significant strand reflects a general tendency among academic historians to focus on the importance of long-term demographic, social, and economic developments at the expense of military and political events. Episodes in on-going struggles, wars are neither as decisive nor as significant as previous generations of historians had assumed. In stressing the power and endurance of local communities, borderlands’ historians fundamentally challenge the power and permanency of nation-states.
Maximum-entropy closures for kinetic theories of neuronal network dynamics.

How do networks of neurons in the brain store and process information? Fascinating as this question may be, the vast hierarchy of the multiple spatial and temporal scales in the cortical dynamics presents a significant challenge to theoretical and computational endeavors. For simulating and understanding the dynamics of large networks, an important approach is to derive effective dynamics, in which the issue naturally arises of what is an efficient representation of network dynamics. For example, the cat or monkey primary visual cortex exhibits laminar structures, in which many cellular properties such as orientation preference are arranged in regular patterns or maps across the cortex [1]. This suggests an important coarse-grained theoretical construction: some neuronal subpopulations may now be effectively represented by coarse-grained patches which are sufficiently large to contain many neurons, yet sufficiently small that regular response properties of the individual neurons within each patch are approximately the same for each neuron. Here, as a first step, we further develop theoretical frameworks for studying these homogenized, coarse-grained patches, i.e., networks of neurons with homogeneous couplings, for which applications of theoretical concepts and tools from nonequilibrium statistical physics to the network dynamics have been shown to be rather fruitful [2]. Recently, starting with such ‘‘microscopic’’ networks of homogeneously coupled, conductance-based integrate-and-fire (I&F) neurons, without introduction of any new parameters, kinetic equations have been derived via moment closures from a Boltzmann-like equation that governs the evolution of a one-particle (i.e., one-neuron) probability density function (PDF) [3]. This is very much reminiscent of derivations of hydrodynamic equations from the Boltzmann equation for molecular motion in fluids [4]. As shown previously [3], this kinetic theory captures the effects of large fluctuations in neuronal networks, with numerical efficiency and surprising accuracy. In this Letter, we analyze this kinetic theory approach and demonstrate that the postulated moment closures [3] are indeed a simple extension of closures based on the maximum-entropy principle (MEP). We begin with a brief description of conductance-based I&F neuronal networks [5]. In an all-to-all coupled network of NE excitatory neurons and NI inhibitory neurons, the I&F dynamics of the ith neuron’s membrane potential,
Understanding the impact of inter-lens and temporal stereoscopic video compression

As we move toward more ubiquitous stereoscopic video, particularly with multiple (> 2) lenses, the need to understand the efficiency of compression will become increasingly important. In this paper, we explore the impact of spatial (between lenses) and temporal (over time) compression for stereoscopic video images. In particular, because stereoscopic images are taken at the same time, there is expected to be a high correlation between pixels in the horizontal direction due to the fixed nature of the multiple lenses. We propose a vertically reduced search window in order to take advantage of this correlation. Starting with multiple stereoscopic video sequences shot using a production studio 3D camera, we explore the effectiveness of temporal and inter-lens motion compensation for stereoscopic video. Furthermore, the experiments use exhaustive search to remove the effects of heuristic-based motion-compensation techniques.
Censorship of the American theatre in the twentieth century

Introduction 1. Overture: theatrical censorship from the puritans to Anthony Comstock 2. Bad girls, tough guys and the changing of the guard 3. Flappers and fanatics 4. Have you now or have you ever ... 5. Bye, bye American pie 6. The past is prologue.
Fast, Easy Preparation of Biodiesel Using Microwave Heating

The preparation of biodiesel using a scientific microwave apparatus offers a fast, easy route to this valuable biofuel with advantages of a short reaction time, a low oil/methanol ratio, and an ease of operation. The methodology allows for the reaction to be run under atmospheric conditions; it is complete in a matter of a few minutes and can be performed on batch scales up to 3 kg of oil at a time. It can be utilized with new or used vegetable oil and with methanol or ethanol with a 1:6 ratio of oil/alcohol.
Mars Global Surveyor observations of the Halloween 2003 solar superstorm's encounter with Mars

[1] Like at Earth, disturbances from solar storms affect the space environment as they encounter Mars. The effects of the 28 October 2003 solar superstorm were among the greatest observed by the Mars Global Surveyor spacecraft at Mars to date. The disturbance, defined by an increase in incident solar wind pressure, encountered Mars on 30 October 2003 and persisted for 43 hours. We present the effects of the passage of this high-pressure disturbance and compare the modified Martian space environment to more quiescent times. We find that the horizontal component of magnetic field is increased on the dayside. In addition, the solar wind interaction region is compressed during the disturbance. The solar wind flow has access to lower altitudes than typical, which likely increases mass loss from the Martian atmosphere. Regions of opened magnetic field lines can be closed at 400 km due to the compression of minimagnetospheres, thus altering locations where ionospheric plasma is protected from solar wind scavenging at 400 km altitude.
Navigation in a virtual environment by dichotic listening: Simultaneous audio cues for user-directed BCI classification

Our research is focused on the initial exploration of training a Brain Computer Interface (BCI) by using audio cues to navigate a virtual environment, instead of motor imagery. We have designed our BCI training and navigation to use audio cues that adhere to the dichotic listening (DL) mechanism so that users have an active choice for interaction or giving commands. We have implemented our Dichotic Listening BCI in a Virtual Environment so that it can be used to train users to apply those skills for a BCI to control a real-world assisted locomotive device or to simply navigate within the virtual environment. We hypothesized that the lateralization of the brain's response to music and speech will enhance the classification of a BCI. Unlike previous attempts in using the oddball paradigm, our results show that audio cues can be used simultaneously to elicit distinct EEG signals for BCI while still enabling an active choice for the user. We evaluated users' performance to actively input navigation tasks. Dichotic Listening BCI performs slightly better than Motor Imagery based BCI.
Are small communities at risk of population loss

Small communities almost universally worry about out-migration and the negative effects of out-migration on community viability. Using Oregon community-level data and applying the threshold estimation method of Hansen (Econometrica 68(3):575–603, 2000), we are able to identify population thresholds that distinguish small communities from their larger counterparts based on significant structural differences in factors affecting net migration. Our results suggest that smaller communities are more at risk of population decline than larger ones. After controlling for spatial spillovers from neighboring communities, the average net migration rate is 3 % in the larger communities (roughly above 5,000 population), 2 % in the mid-sized communities (roughly between 1,250 and 5,000) and \(-3\) % in the smallest communities (roughly less than 1,250). Other things equal, geographic isolation from large cities and low wage rates provide some protection from net out-migration for the smallest communities, but even for the smallest places, a larger population base lowers the risk of net out-migration.
Transvaginal placement of cervicoisthmic cerclage: report on pregnancy outcome.

Objective: This study was undertaken to review pregnancy course and outcome in 56 pregnancies after the placement of a cervicoisthmic cerclage transvaginally. Study design: Fifty-three pregnant patients with unique indications such as previous failure of conventional cerclages or compromised cervical anatomy, underwent transvaginal placement of a cervicoisthmic cerclage during pregnancy. Results: There was 100% fetal survival. Preterm birth rate was 32% and births at less than 30 weeks occurred in 21% of our patients. In 6 patients, the suture was not removed and 3 patients had an additional gestation with the same suture. Serious complications included 1 instance of intraoperative bladder laceration and 1 of intrapartum cervical tear. Minor complications included a postoperative hematoma and transient urinary retention with pelvic pain in 2 patients. Conclusion: The placement of transvaginal cervicoisthmic cerclage was associated with favorable pregnancy outcome and may be considered as a suitable safe alternative to the transabdominal cerclage.
An experimental study of grain scale melt segregation mechanisms in two common crustal rock types

Creation of pathways for melt to migrate from its source is the necessary first step for transport of magma to the upper crust. To test the role of different dehydration-melting reactions in the development of permeability during partial melting and deformation in the crust, we experimentally deformed two common crustal rock types. A muscovite-biotite metapelite and a biotite gneiss were deformed at conditions below, at and above their fluid-absent solidus. For the metapelite, temperatures ranged between 650 and 800 °C at Pc=700 MPa to investigate the muscovite-dehydration melting reaction. For the biotite gneiss, temperatures ranged between 850 and 950 °C at Pc=1000 MPa to explore biotite dehydration-melting under lower crustal conditions. Deformation for both sets of experiments was performed at the same strain rate (e.) 1.37×10−5 s−1. In the presence of deformation, the positive ΔV and associated high dilational strain of the muscovite dehydration-melting reaction produces an increase in melt pore pressure with partial melting of the metapelite. In contrast, the biotite dehydration-melting reaction is not associated with a large dilational strain and during deformation and partial melting of the biotite gneiss melt pore pressure builds more gradually. Due to the different rates in pore pressure increase, melt-enhanced deformation microstructures reflect the different dehydration melting reactions themselves. Permeability development in the two rocks differs because grain boundaries control melt distribution to a greater extent in the gneiss. Muscovite-dehydration melting may develop melt pathways at low melt fractions due to a larger volume of melt, in comparison with biotite-dehydration melting, generated at the solidus. This may be a viable physical mechanism in which rapid melt segregation from a metapelitic source rock can occur. Alternatively, the results from the gneiss experiments suggest continual draining of biotite-derived magma from the lower crust with melt migration paths controlled by structural anisotropies in the protolith.
Effects of a phytoestrogen diet on estrogen-dependent reproductive processes in immature female rats.

Abstract The study reported here examined the effects of a phytoestrogen diet on progestin receptor induction, vaginal opening, and the onset and maintenance of vaginal cycles in developing female rats. A natural dietary concentration (0.01%) of the isoflavonoidcoumestrol was incorporated into the AIN semipurified diet and fed from 21 to 24 days (acute treatment) or from 22 to 60 days (chronic treatment). Progestin receptor induction was observed in the uterus, pituitary, and hypothalamus-preoptic area following acute treatment. Responses were more marked in the uterus and pituitary than in the hypothalamus-preoptic area. Vaginal opening was accelerated by 4 days during chronic coumestrol treatment and occurred at a lighter body weight. Vaginal cycles began on vaginal opening and did not differ in regularity from those of control animals. However, irregular cycles were observed in coumestrol-treated animals at 116 to 131 days, suggesting that chronic coumestrol treatment may have induced some permanent changes in reproductive function. These findings demonstrate that plant estrogens, at natural dietary levels, produce significant, agonistic actions in several estrogen-dependent tissues and processes.
The heat capacity of single-crystal AuZn near the martensitic transition

Abstract Heat capacity measurements were made on a single-crystal sample of AuZn using semi-adiabatic calorimetry from T = 0.6 K to T = 100 K. This material exhibits a continuous phase transition at 64.75 K, and analysis of the heat capacity data give values for the entropy of transition (ΔtrS) 2.02J · K − 1· mol − 1, electronic heat capacity ( γ) 0.38mJ · K − 2· mol − 1and low-temperature limiting Debye temperature (ΘD) 219 K. Mechanical tests performed at liquid helium temperatures verify that AuZn exhibits the shape memory effect. To the best of our knowledge, the martensitic transformation temperature in AuZn is the lowest observed for a shape-memory alloy and is the first to exhibit a continuous transition at a martensitic transition. We also report heat capacity measurements on a high-purity single crystal of copper to demonstrate the accuracy and precision of our low-temperature heat capacity apparatus.
Real‐time single particle monitoring of a relative increase in marine aerosol concentration during winter rainstorms

During the months of December 1996 and January 1997, aerosol characterization was performed in real-time at Riverside, CA, an inland location approximately 100 km east of the Los Angeles coast. Analysis was performed on a single particle basis with measurements of both particle size and composition. Data were collected throughout the course of five rainstorms. Single particle mass spectra demonstrate that obvious composition changes occur in the aerosol systems as the marine air mass is transported inland. While precipitation scavenging of aerosols was observed, there was a significant relative increase of sea salt particles in the non-scavenged aerosol. Compositionally-resolved particle size distributions also demonstrate real-time changes that occur in the atmospheric aerosol sample.
Projective measurement scheme for solid-state qubits

We present an effective measurement scheme for the solid-state qubits, which does not introduce extra decoherence to the qubits until the measurement is switched on by a resonant pulse. The resonant pulse then maximally entangles the qubit with the detector. The scheme has the feature of being projective, noiseless, and switchable. This method is illustrated on the superconducting persistent-current qubit, but can be applied to the measurement of a wide variety of solid-state qubits, the direct detection of the electromagnetic signals of which gives poor resolution of the qubit states.