cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Competitive Positioning and Continuity of Construction Firms in International Markets

In today’s global construction industry, firms exist in competitive market environments. To gain and maintain a competitive position in an increasingly challenging climate, firms must achieve a deep understanding of their dynamic environments and shape their strategies according to evolving conditions. Effectively leveraging external forces and shaping internal company focus in relation to the environment are essential for competitive positioning and achieving sustainable growth. This paper explores the concepts of competitive positioning and continuity in the context of mode (cost, quality, innovation, and timing) and scope (segment, vertical, geographic, and industry) of competition for U.S. and Turkish construction firms in international markets. The analysis of selected U.S. and Turkish firms demonstrates the strategic choice perspectives of different firms and the effects of environmental forces on these strategies over time. This study shows that construction firms tend to pursue consistent strategi...
Hall Effect of a Compensated Magnetic Metal Proportional to M B 2 in the High-Field Limit

The Smit asymmetric scattering on magnetic impurities is introduced into the spherical two-band model of a compensated metal. Hall resistivity ${\ensuremath{\rho}}_{H}$, ohmic resistivity $\ensuremath{\rho}$, and Hall angle ${\ensuremath{\varphi}}_{H}$ are calculated. In the high-field limit ${\ensuremath{\omega}}_{c}\ensuremath{\tau}\ensuremath{\gg}1$, we find ${\ensuremath{\rho}}_{H}\ensuremath{\propto}\frac{M{B}^{2}}{c}$, $\ensuremath{\rho}\ensuremath{\propto}\frac{{B}^{2}}{c}$, $tan{\ensuremath{\varphi}}_{H}\ensuremath{\propto}M$, where $M$ is the magnetization and $c$ the impurity concentration. The more usual ${\ensuremath{\rho}}_{H}={R}_{0}B+{R}_{s}M$ is found to hold only for low fields or uncompensated metals.
Enriching the resident-faculty relationship.

Abstract [Stack SJ, Watson MJ. Enriching the resident-faculty relationship. Ann Emerg Med. September 2001;38:336-338.]
Aeroelastic Model Structure Computation for Envelope Expansion

Structure detection is a procedure for selecting a subset of candidate terms, from a full model description, that best describes the observed output. This is a necessary procedure to compute an efficient system description which may afford greater insight into the functionality of the system or a simpler controller design. Structure computation as a tool for black-box modeling may be of critical importance in the development of robust, parsimonious models for the flight-test community. Moreover, this approach may lead to efficient strategies for rapid envelope expansion that may save significant development time and costs. In this study, a least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) technique is investigated for computing efficient model descriptions of non-linear aeroelastic systems. The LASSO minimises the residual sum of squares with the addition of an l(Sub 1) penalty term on the parameter vector of the traditional l(sub 2) minimisation problem. Its use for structure detection is a natural extension of this constrained minimisation approach to pseudo-linear regression problems which produces some model parameters that are exactly zero and, therefore, yields a parsimonious system description. Applicability of this technique for model structure computation for the F/A-18 (McDonnell Douglas, now The Boeing Company, Chicago, Illinois) Active Aeroelastic Wing project using flight test data is shown for several flight conditions (Mach numbers) by identifying a parsimonious system description with a high percent fit for cross-validated data.
Functional significance of transverse conducting pathways within the canine bundle of his

Abstract Microelectrode techniques were used to test the extent of functional transverse interconnections of specialized conduction fibers within the exposed canine bundle of His and within the right and left bundle branches. It was demonstrated that the activation sequence of the bundle branches during extracellular stimulation of the proximal His bundle was the same as during intracellular stimulation of single bundle of His cells at various locations within the His bundle. The activation sequence was unmodified by partial transection of the His bundle at numerous sites. In cases where activity was initiated in one bundle branch, rapid conduction proceeded across a short segment of isolated distal His bundle to the contralateral bundle branch. We conclude that, when intra-His bundle conduction speed is normal, functional transverse interconnections within the canine bundle of His result in propagation of a single, uniformly advancing wave front, without longitudinal dissociation being present.
Improving the Management of an Advanced Extrauterine Pregnancy Using Pelvic Arteriography in a Hybrid Operating Suite

Advanced extrauterine pregnancy is an extremely rare, life-threatening pregnancy complication. Management of these pregnancies presents significant challenges, especially when they have progressed to an advanced stage of fetal viability. With high rates of maternal and fetal mortality associated with this complication, delivery or pregnancy interruption should be expedited following diagnosis. Localization of the placenta and its blood supply is critical to preoperative planning. Hybrid operating suites that can accommodate a multidisciplinary team of subspecialists may improve the chance of a successful outcome with this rare complication.
The fracture toughness of niobium-based,in situ composites

The fracture resistance of Nb-Cr-Ti alloys orin situ composites of three different compositions, Cr2Nb, and a Nb-10Siin situ composite was studied at ambient temperature. The crack-tip deformation and fracture behaviors were characterized using near-tip measurement techniques and fractographic analyses. The relevant fracture and toughening mechanisms were identified and related to the microstructure. Despite fracture by a combination of cleavage and slip band decohesion, the Nb solid-solution alloy exhibited a resistance-curve behavior with a relatively high toughness and local ductility. The source of toughness was modeled and explained in terms of a cracking process that involved alternate slip band decohesion and cleavage. Thein situ composites, on the other hand, exhibited cleavage fracture but considerably lower toughness with little or no resistance-curve behaviors. The difference in the fracture behavior appears to arise from two factors: (1) the presence of a high constraint in the Nb solid-solution matrix in thein situ composites, and (2) the lack of plastic flow associated with cleavage of the constrained Nb solid-solution matrix.
The future of United Kingdom nuclear weapons: shaping the debate

Britain has been a nuclear-weapon state since the 1950s, mostly in extensive cooperation with the United States in equipment procurement, though (contrary to the aims of anti-nuclear campaigners) full freedom of operational action has been kept. The current force of four nuclear-powered submarines armed with Trident D.5 missiles is not expected to be dependably sustainable beyond the early or middle 2020s in key respects, and lead times mean that initial decisions on whether and if so how to maintain capability thereafter need to be taken by about 2010. The open debate for which the government has called will have to consider international obligations and likely repercussions, strategic and ethical arguments, options for renewal (including at reduced scale), the amount and incidence of costs, and opportunity costs. The government has not yet published enough information to underpin firm conclusions about continuance other than for ‘true believers’ either pro or con.
(p,n) and (n,p) reactions as probes of isovector giant monopole resonances

Nucleon charge exchange reactions are explored as prospective probes of isovector giant monopole resonances. Using charge exchange transition densities based on random-phase approximation sum rules, distorted wave impulse approximation calculations are made for the (p,n) and (n,p) reactions exciting the isovector giant monopole resonances in several nuclei at bombarding energies of 120 and 800 MeV. Based on our calculations, the charge exchange reactions at 800 MeV appear more promising.
Noise figure of high-repetition-rate optical parametric amplifiers in silicon

A numerical investigation on noise figure (NF) inside the silicon waveguides pumped with high-repetition-rate pulses is carried out. The parameters of pump pulses are important to generate net gain and <7dB NF in silicon waveguides.
Challenges and solutions for stripe rust control in the United States

Stripe rust of wheat, caused by Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici, has been one of the most destructive diseases on wheat in the western USA since the late 1950s and has become increasingly important in the central and south-eastern USA since 2000. Stripe rust of barley, caused by P. striiformis f. sp. hordei, a relatively new disease, has established and caused severe damage in the south-central and western states since the pathogen was first reported in Texas in 1991. Stripe rusts of wheat and barley have been monitored by trap nurseries and by field surveys. Collections of stripe rust from wheat, barley, triticale, and grasses have been tested on a set of 20 wheat differential genotypes for identifying races of P. striiformis f. sp. tritici and a set of 12 barley differential genotypes for identifying races of P. striiformis f. sp. hordei. In total, 62 new races of P. striiformis f. sp. tritici and 22 new races of P. striiformis f. sp. hordei have been identified since 2000. Germplasm and breeding lines of wheat and barley have been tested every year under natural infection in the field and with selected races in the greenhouse. Combinations of durable high-temperature, adult-plant resistance with effective all-stage resistance should provide more effective stripe rust control and reduce the use of fungicides.
Toward a holistic model of task design for IS professionals

IS Task design issues and employee motivation can impact information system effectiveness. A questionnaire was developed to integrate important job design factors from equity, expectancy, job characteristics, and goal setting theories. Data was collected from 30 organizations using questionnaires. Job design factors identified were feedback, justice, employee voice, task identity, individual differences, physical dressings, autonomy, and goal difficulty. Limitations of the research and practical implications for both IS practitioners and academics are discussed.
Management of agitation in the intensive care unit

Although the effective evaluation and management of agitated patients often receives less attention than other aspects of critical illness, it is among the most important and rewarding challenges that face critical care physicians. Key features of effective management include a thorough, organized search for potentially dangerous and correctable causes; a sound understanding of the pharmacology of analgesics and sedatives; and keeping a steady eye on appropriate management goals. In turn, the reward for excellent care will be shorter lengths of stay, more rapid liberation from mechanical ventilation, improved cognition, cost savings, and, perhaps, improved survival.
Editorial: Teaching during the global financial crisis

Pedagogies infused by methodological pluralism are better able to encourage students to use stories to make connections between classroom material and the pulse of their daily lives. Teaching during times of economic and financial crises also provides an opening for theoretical pluralism. The recent financial crisis has illuminated the fractures in the economics discipline. In this atmosphere, students are interested in the subject matter while skeptical about the discipline. Teaching economics as a discipline grounded in contending worldviews is one way to engage students' interest while nurturing their critical instincts. Most centrally, the crisis invites students to debate whether deep and/or sustained crises are deviations from the normal functioning of capitalism, or whether bubbles and depressions are endemic.
Src Tyrosine Kinase-Induced Loss of Luteinizing Hormone Responsiveness Is via a Ras-Dependent, Phosphatidylinositol-3-Kinase Independent Pathway

Gonadotropins stimulate gonadal cell steroid secretion primarily through activation of a cAMP-protein kinase A signal transduction pathway. Various growth factors have been shown to inhibit gonadotropin-stimulated steroidogenesis, however, the intracellular signaling cascades involved in growth factor inhibition have not been characterized. The present study investigated whether Src tyrosine kinase, a nonreceptor tyrosine kinase activated in response to growth factor stimulation and previously shown to inhibit LH-stimulated progesterone secretion, acts via activation of Ras stimulated pathways, phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3-kinase) stimulated pathways, or both in MA10 Leydig cells. Direct activation of Src in MA10 cells that express a temperature sensitive Src was associated with an increase in GTP-bound Ras, indicating increased Ras activity in response to Src activation. Direct activation of Ras by way of expression of a constitutively active Ras (Ras1) was associated with a decrease in LH responsiveness. Coexpression of a dominant negative Src, which by itself increases LH responsiveness in MA10 cells, had no effect on Ras1 inhibition on LH responsiveness, further demonstrating that Src is upstream of Ras. In addition, MA10 Ras1 cells were relatively unresponsive to cholera toxin or 8-bromo cAMP, indicating the effects of Ras are independent of cAMP generation. Wortmannin, a PI3-kinase inhibitor, did not restore LH responsiveness to cells expressing activated Src or constitutively active Ras. These results demonstrate that Src activates a Ras pathway in MA10 Leydig cells, and that activation of Ras is associated with a loss of LH responsiveness that is independent of PI3-kinase. growth factors, kinases, Leydig cells, signal transduction
A 12-bit 80-MSample/s pipelined ADC with bootstrapped digital calibration

This paper presents a prototype analog-to-digital converter (ADC) that uses a calibration algorithm to adaptively overcome constant closed-loop gain errors, closed-loop gain variation, and slew-rate limiting. The prototype consists of an input sample-and-hold amplifier (SHA) that can serve as a calibration queue, a 12-bit 80-MSample/s pipelined ADC, a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) for calibration, and an embedded custom microprocessor, which carries out the calibration algorithm. The calibration is bootstrapped in the sense that the DAC is used to calibrate the ADC, and the ADC is used to calibrate the DAC. With foreground calibration, test results show that the peak differential nonlinearity (DNL) is -0.09 least significant bits (LSB), and the peak integral nonlinearity (INL) is -0.24LSB. Also, the maximum signal-to-noise-and-distortion ratio (SNDR) and spurious-free dynamic range (SFDR) are 71.0 and 79.6dB with a 40-MHz sinusoidal input, respectively. The prototype occupies 22.6 mm/sup 2/ in a 0.25-/spl mu/m CMOS technology and dissipates 755 mW from a 2.5-V supply.
Benzene destruction in direct current and pulse-superimposed atmospheric pressure air glow discharges

Benzene, a carcinogenic volatile organic compound, is commonly used as a solvent. We have explored the use of a high pressure glow discharge in a near atmospheric and atmospheric pressure benzene/air mixture for benzene remediation. By using a micro-hollow cathode discharge (MHCD) as an electron source to lower or eliminate the cathode fall voltage, a glow discharge could be operated either in a dc mode or in a pulse-superimposed mode at atmospheric pressure air. A higher than 90% destruction rate has been obtained by flowing a benzene/dry air mixture through the dc glow discharge. For a pressure of 720 torr, superimposed electric pulses caused an increase in destruction of benzene, however, for 760 torr, the remediation effect was reversed.
RED WATER IN LA JOLLA BAY, 1964–19661

Five red water dinoflagellate blooms took place in La Jolla Bay, California, between May 1964 and December 1966. Predominant organisms were Gymnodinium spp. and Cochlodinium spp. (May 1964), Prorocentrum micnns (April 1965) and Gonyaulux po2yedra (June-July 1964, J unc-July 1965, and Dccembcr 1966). Ccl1 concentration and chlorophyll a content were measured during each bloom with values up to 20 X 10’ cells/ liter and approximately 500 pug chlorophyll a/liter. During the day, the organisms appeared in discrete patches that apparently dispersed at night. Cell carbon and nitrogen content of the organisms often excecdcd that available in surface waters or in the water column. Cells must be concentrated both vertically and horizontally to account for the numbers observed in patches during the day. Even in the densest patches the cells appeared to be physiologically active based upon measurements of photosynthetic rate, nitrate reductase activity, and observed motility. Decline of blooms was associated with increases in dissolved organic carbon, orthophosphate and monophosphate esters. The May 1964 bloom was decimated by grazing of
EIN4 and ERS2 Are Members of the Putative Ethylene Receptor Gene Family in Arabidopsis

The Arabidopsis ethylene receptor gene ETR1 and two related genes, ERS1 and ETR2, were identified previously. These three genes encode proteins homologous to the two-component regulators that are widely used for environment sensing in bacteria. Mutations in these genes confer ethylene insensitivity to wild-type plants. Here, we identified two Arabidopsis genes, EIN4 and ERS2, by cross-hybridizing them with ETR2. Sequence analysis showed that they are more closely related to ETR2 than they are to ETR1 or ERS1. EIN4 previously was isolated as a dominant ethylene-insensitive mutant. ERS2 also conferred dominant ethylene insensitivity when certain mutations were introduced into it. Double mutant analysis indicated that ERS2, similar to ETR1, ETR2, ERS1, and EIN4, acts upstream of CTR1. Therefore, EIN4 and ERS2, along with ETR1, ETR2, and ERS1, are members of the ethylene receptor–related gene family of Arabidopsis. RNA expression patterns of members of this gene family suggest that they might have distinct as well as redundant functions in ethylene perception.
A pilot study with ethyl bis (2,2-dimethyl-1-aziridinyl) phosphinate (AB-163) and radiation therapy

Abstract Ethyl his (2,2 dimethyl-l-aziridinyl) phosphinate (AB-163), a TEPA analogue, was used with radiation therapy in treating 18 patients with advanced malignancies. There were 12 patients with esophageal carcinoma; 3 with adenocarcinomas of the gastrointestinal tract; one, squamous carcinoma of the cervix; and one, adenocarcinoma of the ovary. One hundred mg/M 2 AB-163 was given by rapid i.v. drip one half-hour before conventional radiation therapy. The majority of patients received 10 combined treatments. Three of those with squamous cell carcinomas (two in the esophagus and one in the cervix) remained disease-free for more than 2 years. One with liver metastasis and unresectable carcinoma of the stomach survived for 9 months. The drug causes side effects mainly involving the central nervous system and gastrointestinal tract. Drug-related myelosuppression has not been observed. The mode of action is speculated to be a result of active intermediate hydrolysis products which appear capable of phosphorylating X ray induced DNA strand damage. However, much additional investigation is required, both in vitro and clinically, before its efficacy and safety can be demonstrated.
Numerical sensitivity analysis of passive EHF and SMMW channels to tropospheric water vapor, clouds, and precipitation

Potential uses of specific extremely high frequency (EHF) and submillimeter-wave (SMMW) channels at 90, 166, 283, 220, 325, 340, and 410 GHz for passive spaceborne remote sensing of the troposphere and lower stratosphere are investigated using an iterative numerical radiative transfer model. Collectively, these channels offer potential for high spatial resolution imaging using diffraction-limited apertures of practical size, along with the ability to profile water vapor, map precipitation beneath optically opaque cloud cover, and to measure nonprecipitating cloud (e.g. cirrus) parameters. A passive airborne imaging instrument for tropospheric meteorological sensing at 90, 150, 183+or-1, 3, 7, 220, and 325+or-1, 3, 9 GHz, called the Millimeter-wave Imaging Radiometer (MIR), is described. >
Stem Cell Proliferation in the Skin: α-Catenin Takes Over the Hippo Pathway

Epithelial tissues in the human body undergo constant renewal. For example, the skin is regenerated continuously through the periodic proliferation of normally quiescent stem cells in the basal compartment of the skin. Proper balance between stem cell quiescence and proliferation is maintained over the lifetime of the organism to preserve pools of stem cells required to maintain and repair tissues. However, mechanisms controlling the rate of stem cell renewal are poorly understood. Additionally, whether deregulation of these mechanisms within epidermal stem cells leads to skin cancer is not known. The adherens junction component α-catenin has been identified as a regulator of epidermal stem cell proliferation and as a suppressor of skin cancer through its inhibition of Yap, a transcriptional effector of the Hippo growth control pathway. Understanding the pathways that regulate the proliferation of stem cells in the skin holds promise for reversing the aging process and tumor development.
Oral methotrexate for treatment of ectopic pregnancy

Abstract Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate oral methotrexate tablets in the treatment of ectopic pregnancy. Study Design: Patients with a diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy were offered oral methotrexate tablets rather that intramuscular injection. Oral methotrexate was given in 2 divided doses 2 hours apart at a dose of 60 mg/m 2 with standard 2.5 mg methotrexate tablets. Patients were followed up with the use of the same protocol that was used typically for intramuscular methotrexate. Results: Nineteen of 22 patients (86%) were successfully treated. There was no statistical difference between patients who were treated successfully or unsuccessfully, with respect to initial human chorionic gonadotropin titers ( P =.55), ectopic size ( P =.77), or methotrexate dose ( P =.18). Nineteen of 22 patients (86%) had increased pain during treatment. Outside of pain, gastrointestinal side effects were the most common. Thirty-two percent of patients required more than one treatment cycle. Conclusion: Oral methotrexate can be used to treat ectopic pregnancy successfully, but there are few advantages to recommend its use over intramuscular methotrexate. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2002;186:1192-5.)
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN OTC BID‐ASK SPREADS AND DEALER SIZE: THE IMPACT OF ORDER‐PROCESSING AND DIVERSIFICATION COSTS

The effects of large transactions on OTC security dealers' bid-ask spreads are analyzed for stocks with different price levels. Because overhead expenses vary little with the value of transactions, economies of scale exist for dealers in higher-priced stocks. Thus, percentage bid-ask spreads decline with the price level of the stock. However, larger transactions entail larger order-clearing and inventory-adjustment costs. These costs may be particularly burdensome for smaller dealers with limited purchasing powers and abilities to diversify inexpensively. Consequently, smaller dealers charge higher spreads for trading high-priced stocks.
Does the L1 have a role in the foreign language classroom? A review of the literature

Recently, the powers that be at the English language school where I work posted signs in every classroom, advising that only English is to be spoken there. The signs feature a menacing-looking Uncle Sam, wearing a patriotic top hat and a scowl. His outstretched index finger points accusingly at the viewer and his catch phrase is altered to read, "I want YOU to speak English at (name of school)" The background of these signs is an ominous black, and above the image of Uncle Sam is a warning: "Caution: English Only Zone."
Fast and accurate projection algorithm for 3D cone-beam reconstruction with the Algebraic Reconstruction Technique (ART)

The prime motivation of this work is to devise a projection algorithm that makes the Algebraic Reconstruction Technique (ART) and related methods more efficient for routine clinical use without compromising their accuracy. While we focus mostly on a fast implementation of ART-type methods in the context of 3D cone-beam reconstruction, most of the material presented here is also applicable to speed up 2D slice reconstruction from fan-beam data. In this paper, we utilize the concepts of the splatting algorithm, which is a well known and very efficient voxel-driven projection technique for parallel projection, and devise an extension for perspective cone-beam projection that is considerably more accurate than previously outlined extensions. Since this new voxel-driven splatting algorithm must make great sacrifices with regards to computational speed, we describe a new 3D ray-driven projector that uses similar concepts than the voxel-driven projector but is considerably faster, and, at the same time, also more accurate. We conclude that with the proposed fast projection algorithm the computational cost of cone-beam ART can be reduced significantly with the added benefit of slight gains in accuracy. A further conclusion of our studies is that for parallel-beam reconstruction, on the other hand, a simple voxel-driven splatting algorithm provides for more efficient projection.
First at-large record of Amblyomma parvum (Acari: Ixodidae) in the United States

An adult male of Amblyomma parvum Aragao, 1908 was collected from a biologist performing field work in Key Largo, Monroe County, Florida, USA, on 30 November 2004. Intermittent surveys from 2004–2009, including examination of wildlife and tick drags, failed to detect additional specimens of A. parvum in Key Largo. This is the first collection of a free-living A. parvum in the United States, although it has been found there once before on a quarantined animal entering from Paraguay.
Molecular structure of the outer bacterial membrane of Pseudomonas aeruginosa via classical simulation

A detailed structural analysis has been performed of the outer bacterial membrane of Pseudomonas aeruginosa using a parameterized classical simulation model (R. D. Lins and T. P. Straatsma, Biophysical Journal, 2001, Vol. 81, pp. 1037–1046) with modest modifications. The structural analysis of the membrane is presented and newly discovered characteristics of the membrane are discussed. Simulations indicate that the relative contribution of different ligands to calcium ion coordination varies across the membrane, while maintaining a constant average coordination number of 6.1. Water penetrates the surface of the membrane to a depth of about 30 A. The hydration of ions and phosphate groups is shown to depend on location within the membrane. A measure of saccharide residue orientation is defined and average orientations are presented. Saccharide residues possess varying degrees of motion with a trend of greater mobility at the membrane surface. However, their motion is limited and even in the membrane outer core region the average structure appears fairly rigid over a period of 1 ns. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 65: 395–407, 2002
Continuum Models of Carbon Nanotube-Based Composites Using the Boundary Element Method

This paper presents some recent advances in the boundary element method (BEM) for the analysis of carbon nanotube (CNT)-based composites. Carbon nanotubes, formed conceptually by rolling thin graphite sheets, have been found to be extremely stiff, strong and resilient, and therefore may be ideal for reinforcing composite materials. However, the thin cylindrical shape of the CNTs presents great challenges to any computational method when these thin shell-like CNTs are embedded in a matrix material. The BEM, based on exactly the same boundary integral equation (BIE) formulation developed by Rizzo some forty years ago, turns out to be an ideal numerical tool for such simulations using continuum mechanics. Modeling issues regarding model selections, representative volume elements, interface conditions and others, will be discussed in this paper. Methods for dealing with nearly-singular integrals which arise in the BEM analysis of thin or layered materials and are crucial for the accuracy of such analyses will be reviewed. Numerical examples using the BEM and compared with the finite element method (FEM) will be presented to demonstrate the efficiency and accuracy of the BEM in analyzing the CNT-reinforced composites.
A Dynamic Energy Budget (DEB) model for the keystone predator Pisaster ochraceus.

We present a Dynamic Energy Budget (DEB) model for the quintessential keystone predator, the rocky-intertidal sea star Pisaster ochraceus. Based on first principles, DEB theory is used to illuminate underlying physiological processes (maintenance, growth, development, and reproduction), thus providing a framework to predict individual-level responses to environmental change. We parameterized the model for P. ochraceus using both data from the literature and experiments conducted specifically for the DEB framework. We devoted special attention to the model’s capacity to (1) describe growth trajectories at different life-stages, including pelagic larval and post-metamorphic phases, (2) simulate shrinkage when prey availability is insufficient to meet maintenance requirements, and (3) deal with the combined effects of changing body temperature and food supply. We further validated the model using an independent growth data set. Using standard statistics to compare model outputs with real data (e.g. Mean Absolute Percent Error, MAPE) we demonstrated that the model is capable of tracking P. ochraceus’ growth in length at different life-stages (larvae: MAPE=12.27%; postmetamorphic, MAPE=9.22%), as well as quantifying reproductive output index. However, the model’s skill dropped when trying to predict changes in body mass (MAPE=24.59%), potentially because of the challenge of precisely anticipating spawning events. Interestingly, the model revealed that P. ochraceus reserves contribute little to total biomass, suggesting that animals draw energy from structure when food is limited. The latter appears to drive indeterminate growth dynamics in P. ochraceus. Individual-based mechanistic models, which can illuminate underlying physiological responses, offer a viable framework for forecasting population dynamics in the keystone predator Pisaster ochraceus. The DEB model herein represents a critical step in that direction, especially in a period of increased anthropogenic pressure on natural systems and an observed recent decline in populations of this keystone species.
Land use change emissions from oil palm expansion in Pará, Brazil depend on proper policy enforcement on deforested lands

Brazil aims to increase palm oil production to meet the growing national and global demand for edible oil and biodiesel while preserving environmentally and culturally significant areas. As land use change (LUC) is the result of complex interactions between socio-economic and biophysical drivers operating at multiple temporal and spatial scales, the type and location of LUC depend on drivers such as neighboring land use, conversion elasticity, access to infrastructure, distance to markets, and land suitability. The purpose of this study is to develop scenarios to measure the impact of land conversion under three different enforcement scenarios (none, some, and strict enforcement). We found that converting 22.5 million hectares of land can produce approximately 29 billion gallons (110 billion liters) of biodiesel a year. Of that, 22‐71% of the area can come from forest land, conservation units, wetland and indigenous areas, emitting 14‐84 gCO2e MJ 1 . This direct land use emission alone can be higher than the carbon intensity of diesel that it intends to displace for lowering greenhouse gas emissions. This letter focuses narrowly on GHG emissions and does not address socio-economic‐ecological prospects for these degraded lands for palm oil or for other purposes. Future studies should carefully evaluate these tradeoffs.
Using Age, Cohort, and Period to Study Elderly Volunteerism

American volunteers, both informally and through organizations like the Corporation for National Service, make huge contributions to the well-being of millions of Americans and, via their unpaid or minimally-reimbursed work, to the American economy. Can America continue to count on maintaining or increasing volunteer contributions in the future? This question is especially important as the Baby Boomers replace the current generation of older Americans. This article provides faculty and students with information on elderly volunteering. It suggests and demonstrates using age-cohort-period analysis to understand different forces affecting volunteering by older Americans. A major benefit of age-cohort-period analysis is preventing faulty conclusions and, consequently, faulty policy decisions and waste of resources. Such analysis can also enhance current and future efforts to recruit and retain volunteers, particularly among the elderly.
Differential regulation and substrate preferences in two peptide transporters of Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

Dal5p has been shown previously to act as an allantoate/ureidosuccinate permease and to play a role in the utilization of certain dipeptides as a nitrogen source in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Here, we provide direct evidence that dipeptides are transported by Dal5p, although the affinity of Dal5p for allantoate and ureidosuccinate is higher than that for dipeptides. Allantoate, ureidosuccinate, and to a lesser extent allantoin competed with dipeptide transport by reducing the toxicity of the peptide Ala-Eth and decreasing the accumulation of [14C]Gly-Leu. In contrast to the well-studied di/tripeptide transporter Ptr2p, whose substrate specificity is very broad, Dal5p preferred to transport non-N-end rule dipeptides. S. cerevisiae W303 was sensitive to the toxic peptide Ala-Eth (non-N-end rule peptide) but not Leu-Eth (N-end rule peptide). Non-N-end rule dipeptides showed better competition with the uptake of [14C]Gly-Leu than N-end rule dipeptides. Similar to the regulation of PTR2, DAL5 expression was influenced by the addition of Leu and by the CUP9 gene. However, DAL5 expression was downregulated in the presence of leucine and the absence of CUP9, whereas PTR2 was upregulated. Toxic dipeptide and uptake assays indicated that either Ptr2p or Dal5p was predominantly used for dipeptide transport in the common laboratory strains S288c and W303, respectively. These studies highlight the complementary activities of two dipeptide transport systems under different regulatory controls in common laboratory yeast strains, suggesting that dipeptide transport pathways evolved to respond to different environmental conditions.
Performance of a coincidence based blood activity monitor

A novel device has been constructed that measures the positron-emitting radio-tracer concentration in arterial blood by extracting blood with a peristaltic pump and then measuring the activity concentration by detecting coincident pairs of 511-keV photons with a pair of heavy inorganic scintillators attached to photomultiplier tubes. The sensitivity of this device was experimentally determined to be 610 counts/s per mu Ci/ml, and it has a paralyzing dead time of 1.2 mu s, which makes it capable of measuring blood activity concentrations as high as 1 mCi/ml. Its performance is compared to that of two other blood monitoring methods: discrete blood samples counted with a well counter and a device that uses a plastic scintillator to detect positrons directly. The positron detection efficiency of this device for /sup 18/F is greater than that of the plastic scintillation counter, and it also eliminates the radioisotope-dependent correction factors necessary to convert count rate to absolute concentration. >
Economic Sharing During Marriage: Equal Protection, Spousal Support and the Doctrine of Necessaries

The two types of marital property systems in the United States differ dramatically in the approach taken to ownership of marital property. Shared ownership of assets acquired by the efforts of the spouses during marriage characterizes the community property system. The common law property system, on the other hand, is premised on the principle of separate ownership. All assets acquired by either spouse during marriage, along with property brought to the marriage, belong exclusively to the acquiring spouse.Exceptions to the principle of separate ownership during marriage exist in the common law marital property system. The law of support establishes limited rights for each spouse in the property of the other, although enforcement of the rights during marriage is problematic. The doctrine of necessaries, enabling creditors to collect support debts on a noncontractual basis, is premised on the spousal support obligation.The traditional laws of support and necessaries, applicable to husbands only, do not satisfy the fourteenth amendment's equal protection requirement. While these laws fall short of creating true financial equality in marriage, their abrogation would be most inappropriate. In extending the laws of support and necessaries to wives, concerns about protection of dependent spouses, administrative convenience and creditor rights arise. A gender neutral rule that accommodates all of these interests can and must be formulated in order to retain this limited element of sharing during marriage in the separate property states.
Microscopic calculations for the /sup 4/He and /sup 4/Li continuum

A new model for the /sup 4/H and /sup 4/Li nuclei in which structure and reaction aspects are treated on an equal footing is introduced. The internal states are expanded on a basis of properly antisymmetrized translationally invariant harmonic oscillator eigenstates including all states up to 4h..omega.. oscillator excitation. All two-body breakup channels, namely n + /sup 3/H or p + /sup 3/He, are explicitly included. The two-body interaction is based on the Sussex matrix elements. Model widths and positions of the excited states and elastic scattering cross sections are in qualitative agreement with the data. Three- and four-body breakup channels are ignored.
Suction Effects on the Transition and Reattachment of a Transitional Bubble

The effects of distributed suction on the transition and reattachment of the transitional bubble on an airfoil at a Reynolds number of 250,000 are investigated by analyzing the mean and fluctuating velocity profiles. It is found that suction delays separation and transition and decreases the turbulence intensity at these locations. Suction also affects the development of the turbulent boundary layer downstream of reattachment by causing the mean velocity profiles to be “fuller” and reducing the turbulence intensity in this region. Investigating the power spectra of the streamwise velocity fluctuations shows that suction suppresses the freestream disturbances upstream of the suction distribution. However, once suction begins, these disturbances amplify significantly.
Characteristics of Illinois School Districts That Employ School Nurses

Research indicates that school nursing services are cost-effective, but the National Association of School Nurses estimates that 25% of schools do not have a school nurse (SN). The purpose of this study was to identify the characteristics of Illinois school districts that employed SNs. This was a secondary data analysis of Illinois School Report Card system data as well as data obtained from district websites regarding SNs. Employment of an SN was determined for 95% of the 862 existing districts. Binary logistic regression analysis found that district size was the largest significant predictor of employment of an SN. Other factors included the type of district and diversity of the teaching staff as well as the percentage of students receiving special education services or with limited English proficiency. These findings indicate where to focus advocacy and policy efforts to encourage employment of SNs.
Anticoagulation for Atrial Fibrillation after Resolution of Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever.

Dear Sir, In a recent publication, Pahadiya et al., presented a young patient with atrial fibrillation (AF) during dengue haemorrhagic fever, suggesting the role of acute viral myocarditis [1]. In this interesting case report, the patient was admitted after five days of dengue symptoms. The cardiac arrhythmia was observed in the 3rd day of hospital admission and persisted until the 8th day, two days after the initiation of steroid therapy with dexamethasone. No specific antiarrhythmic therapy was prescribed. The patient was discharged on 12th day, clinically stable, afebrile and with normal haematological laboratory parameters. Unfortunately, despite of the excellent hospital upshot of this patient, the authors did not present his long-term follow-up neither they contemplated the anticoagulation therapy after hospital discharge, late after resolution of the acute phase. AF is associated with the occurrence of thromboembolic complications, mainly stroke, that are preventable with anticoagulation therapy. The risk of thromboembolism for patients undergoing cardioversion of AF may reach 5% [2]. Pooled data from 32 studies of cardioversion of AF or atrial flutter suggest that 98% of clinical thromboembolic events occur within 10 days after restoration of sinus rhythm [3]. Thus, current guidelines for the management of patients with AF [4] are emphatic in recommending oral anticoagulation for at least 4 weeks after conversion of an episode of 48 hours’ duration or longer, regardless of the CHA2DS2-VASc score for thromboembolism. During the acute phase of haemorragic dengue fever, there is no statement regarding the management of anticoagulation in patients with indication for this therapy, but it seems reasonable the avoidance of any antithrombotic drugs in these days. However, after a good resolution of the acute phase of the infection, those patients must be considered for anticoagulation if their arrhythmia had lasted for more than 48 hours. In our first report of the association of AF with haemorrhagic dengue fever, the patient had the sinus rhythm restored in 24 hours with amiodarone infusion [5]. He did not receive oral anticoagulation due to the short duration of AF. In the case of Pahadiya et al., the episode of atrial fibrillation lasted for 5 days [1]. The decision for anticoagulation in this patient is difficult. However, I do believe that this therapy should have been initiated. Finally, I would like to state that, in our first report of atrial fibrillation due to dengue haemorrhagic fever [5], we had not mentioned some role for steroid therapy, as it was referred in the discussion of Pahadiya et al., [1].
Feature Word Detection of TDMA Bursts Based on the AMDL Approach

This paper introduces the MDL(minimum information description length) based algorithm which is robust to frequency offset for detection of feature words.An analytical performance investigation is addressed,and it leads to the adaptive MDL(AMDL) approach in which the threshold is self-adaptive.When applied to the signal classification and selection,the new approach is more flexible and feasible,and simulation results show that the detection performance is robust to frequency offset.
Activation of oxytocin receptors, but not arginine-vasopressin V1a receptors, in the ventral tegmental area of male Syrian hamsters is essential for the reward-like properties of social interactions

Social reward plays a fundamental role in shaping human and animal behavior. The rewarding nature of many forms of social behavior including sexual behavior, parental behavior, and social play has been revealed using well-established procedures such as the conditioned place preference test. Many motivated social behaviors are regulated by the nonapeptides oxytocin (OT) and arginine vasopressin (AVP) through their actions in multiple brain structures. Interestingly, there are few data on whether OT or AVP might contribute to the rewarding properties of social interaction by their actions within brain structures that play a key role in reward mechanisms such as the ventral tegmental area (VTA). The goal of the present study was to investigate the role of OT and AVP in the VTA in regulating the reward-like properties of social interactions. Social interactions between two male hamsters reduced a spontaneous place avoidance in hamsters injected with saline control. Interestingly, however, OT and AVP injected into the VTA induced a significant two-fold reduction in place avoidance for the social interaction chamber when compared to control injections of vehicle. Finally, because OT and AVP can act on each other’s receptors to influence social behavior, we also injected highly selective OTR and V1aR agonists and antagonists to determine whether OT or AVP V1a receptors were responsible for mediating the effects of these neuropeptides on social reward. Our results not only demonstrated that OT and AVP activate OTRs and not V1aRs to mediate social reward, they also demonstrated that the activation of OT receptors in the VTA is essential for the expression of the rewarding properties of social interactions.
Development of high throughput assays for establishing process-structure-property linkages in multiphase polycrystalline metals: Application to dual-phase steels

Abstract Process-structure-property (PSP) linkages are central to the development and deployment of advanced materials in emerging technologies. Conventional approaches for establishing these are generally highly customized, qualitative, and demand major investments of time and effort. In this paper, we formulate novel, data-driven, high throughput, assays for exploring PSP linkages in structural metals. These assays are built on recent advances in low-dimensional quantification of material structure using spatial correlations and principal component analyses, as well as in the mechanical characterization using spherical nanoindentation. These novel protocols are demonstrated on a dual phase (DP) steel that exhibits rich multiphase polycrystalline microstructures.
Considering an optimum frequency for high potential testing

It has been recognized for many years that a high potential test at the service frequency is a reliable indicator of the suitability of an insulation system for the service period. However, because a high capacitance apparatus requires large charging KVA at the test voltages and service frequency, it is often not convenient nor possible to apply the service frequency high potential test at field installations. The choice is then between applying no voltage at all during field maintenance programs, or to use a substitute for the service frequency on such apparatus as steam turbine generators, hydroelectric machines, large electric motors, or power cables. One substitute often used presently is the d-c high potential test. The testing KVA is minimum in this instance, and primarily for this reason d-c testing techniques have received a great deal of acceptance.
Fear the Government? A Meta-Analysis of the Impact of Government Funding on Nonprofit Advocacy Engagement

This article examines the impact of government funding on nonprofit participation in policy advocacy. Previous literature has proposed that government funding may either encourage or inhibit nonpro...