cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Progestins Can Have a Membrane-Mediated Action in Rat Midbrain for Facilitation of Sexual Receptivity

In rats, progesterone (P) facilitates sexual receptivity by interacting with intracellular progestin receptors in the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH). This experiment concerns whether P can also facilitate receptivity in rats by acting extragenomically within the ventral tegmental area (VTA). Ovariectomized rats (n= 10) with bilateral guide cannulas over the VMH and VTA were primed with 2 μg subcutaneous estradiol benzoate 44 hr prior to testing. After a pretest for sexual receptivity, animals received implants to the VMH of P, P conjugated to bovine serum albumin (P:BSA), or cholesterol control (CHOL), and were retested. Two hours later, animals were again tested for receptivity, and P, P:BSA, the P metabolite 5α-pregnan-3α-ol-20-one (3α,5α-THP), or CHOL implants were applied to the VTA. Subjects were retested immediately, 30, 90, and 150 min later. Animals that received P in the VMH and had P, P:BSA, or 3α,5α-THP applied to the VTA exhibited facilitated receptivity at all time points compared with all other combination implants. That P:BSA and P were equally effective when applied to the VTA, but not the VMH, suggests that in the VTA P's membrane-mediated actions are sufficient to facilitate receptivity, whereas in the VMH they are not. Since the steroid (P) and its metabolite (3α,5α-THP) are similarly effective when applied to the VTA, given P application to the VMH earlier, P's effects in the VTA may be subsequent to metabolism and/or actions at GABA receptors. Overall, these data suggest that in rats P can act at the membrane of neurons within the VTA to modulate lordosis and that these effects may be subsequent to P's metabolism and/or actions at GABA receptors.
Impact of Support Groups on Well-Being of Older Women

The goal of this study was to determine whether differences in incidence of depression and level of well-being are manifested between older women, aged 60 and older, who attend either (a) a peer-run support group, (b) a staff-run support group, or (c) a comparison group (i.e., who do not attend a support group). Thirty-six women participating in peer-run and staff-run support groups and 9 women receiving nongroup support were administered the Geriatric Depression Scale and the Philadelphia Geriatric Center Morale Scale. Separate analyses of variance were employed on each scale to determine the significance of differences in scores according to facilitator type (i.e., peer-run vs. staff-run vs. comparison group). Analysis of scores on the Geriatric Depression Scale indicated significant differences between women in the peer-run groups and women in the comparison group, but no significant differences between women in the peer-run groups and women in the staff-run groups or between women in the staff-run groups and women in the comparison group. Analysis of scores on the Philadelphia Geriatric Center Morale Scale did not indicate any significant differences between women based on facilitator type. Results of this study have implications for those who run face-to-face support groups for older adults, for those who train peer group facilitators, and for community agencies that desire to initiate a support group system for their clientele.
Some effects of arousal and false GSR feedback on affective judgments.

The effect of general internal arousal was examined as a determinant of the utilization of nonveridical feedback of physiological reactions to emotional and nonemotional stimuli. 20 male Ss in a high-arousal condition were shown 10 slides depicting nude females and 20 Ss in a low-arousal condition were shown 10 slides depicting high-performance automobiles. All Ss received bogus feedback indicating that their GSRs had significantly increased in response to 5 of the slides (reinforced slides) and remained unaffected by the other 5 (nonreinforced slides). The results show that only high-arousal Ss expressed a preference for prints of reinforced slides and rated them as more attractive than nonreinforced slides. This finding is seen as pointing to the necessity of including internal arousal as a motivational factor affecting emotional judgments and as indicating the feasibility of an alternative explanation for the results of other studies which have suggested that affective labeling may be motivated by cogn...
Simultaneous Extraction and Determination of Ytterbium and Cobalt Ethylenediaminetetraacetate Complex in Feces

Abstract A method is described for preparation of samples of bovine feces for analysis of ytterbium and cobalt ethylenediaminetetraacetate complex. Two hundred milligrams of feces was placed into a 50-ml screwcap polypropylene centrifuge tube. Twenty milliliters of .05 M ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid solution in .05% potassium chloride with pH adjusted to 6.5 with ammonium hydroxide was added to feces in the centrifuge tube. Tubes were capped and shaken for 30min on a wrist action shaker, filtered, and analyzed by atomic emission and atomic absorption. Ytterbium and cobalt ethylenediaminetetraacetate complex were extracted quantitatively by the procedures with little interference from the fecal sample. The procedure is rapid and yields reliable data.
Primary relationship scripts among lower-income, African American young adults.

Research on romantic relationships among lower income, African American young adults has mostly focused on problem behaviors, and has infrequently documented nonpathological relationship processes that are widely studied among middle-class college students, their wealthier and largely European American counterparts [Journal of Black Studies 39 (2009) 570]. To identify nonpathological cultural concepts related to heterosexual romantic relationships, we interviewed 144 low to low-mid income, African American young adults aged 19–22 from the San Francisco Bay Area, CA, metropolitan Chicago, IL, and Greater Birmingham, AL. We identified 12 gender-shared scripts related to the romantic relationship in areas of (1) defining the relationship, (2) processes of joining, (3) maintaining balance, and (4) modulating conflict. Understanding romantic relationship scripts is important as successful romantic relationships are associated with improved mental and physical health among lower income individuals as compared with individuals without romantic partners [Social Science & Medicine 52 (2001) 1501]. 摘要 针对美国非洲裔低收入年轻人浪漫关系的研究主要聚焦于问题行为,而广泛用于研究中产阶级大学生(主要为欧裔的比他们更富有的的同龄人)的非病理学关系过程则鲜有记录,(King & Allen, 2009)。为了识别与异性浪漫关系相关的非病理学文化概念,我们对来自于加州旧金山湾区、伊利诺伊州大芝加哥地区,以及阿拉巴马州大伯明翰地区144名年龄在19-22岁间的低收入到中低收入非洲裔年轻人进行了访谈。我们在以下领域识别了12个与浪漫关系相关的男女共有的脚本:1)对浪漫关系的解释,2)结合的过程,3)保持平衡,以及4)缓和冲突。了解浪漫关系的脚本很重要,因为与没有浪漫配偶的个人相比,低收入人群中成功的浪漫关系与身心健康的改善有关(Cattell, 2001)。 Resumen Las investigaciones sobre las relaciones amorosas entre los jovenes adultos afroamericanos de bajos recursos se han centrado principalmente en los comportamientos problematicos y pocas veces han documentado los procesos relacionales no patologicos que generalmente se estudian entre estudiantes universitarios de clase media, sus pares mas adinerados y predominantemente euroamericanos (King & Allen, 2009). Para reconocer los conceptos culturales no patologicos asociados con las relaciones amorosas heterosexuales, entrevistamos a 144 jovenes adultos afroamericanos de ingresos bajos a bajos-intermedios de entre 19 y 22 anos del area de la Bahia de San Francisco (California), del area metropolitana de Chicago (Illinois) y del area central de Birmingham (Alabama). Identificamos 12 patrones comunes a ambos sexos relativos a la relacion amorosa en las areas de 1) definicion de la relacion, 2) procesos de union, 3) mantenimiento del equilibrio, y 4) modulacion del conflicto. La comprension de los patrones de las relaciones amorosas es importante ya que las relaciones amorosas exitosas estan asociadas con una mejor salud mental y fisica entre las personas de bajos recursos en comparacion con las personas que no tienen pareja (Cattell, 2001).
High-Density Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (HD-tDCS): Skin Safety and Comfort

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive procedure where a weak electrical current (260 μA to 2 mA) is applied across the scalp to modulate brain function. tDCS has been applied for therapeutic purposes (e.g., addiction, depression, mood and sleep disorders) as well as cognitive performance enhancement (e.g., memory consolidation, motor learning and language recall). Despite safety and cost advantages, the developments of tDCS therapies have been restricted by spatial targeting concerns using existing two-channel systems. We have developed novel technology for High-Density tDCS (HD-tDCS) that improves spatial focality. Integral to the system are specialized HD-tDCS electrodes (<12 mm diameter) which allow safe and comfortable passage of current across the scalp. Here we evaluate a range of HD-tDCS electrode designs for comfort as well as test electrode over-potential, pH, and temperature. Passing 2 mA current for 22 minutes, both anodal and cathodal stimulations were evaluated independently. Subjective sensation during forearm stimulation was evaluated in 8 subjects. The benefits of skin electrical or chemical pre-conditioning were tested. Conductive Rubber, Ag, AgCl, pellet electrodes and AgCl ring electrodes were evaluated in combination with salty gels (Signa and CCNY4) and nominally electrolyte free gel (Lectron). The use of AgCl ring electrodes in combination with CCNY4 gel resulted in no significant pH, temperature, or over-potential changes under either polarity stimulation and was well tolerated by subjects. HD-tDCS may thus be applied with 2 mA per electrode for up to 22 minutes without skin irritation. Moreover, skin pre-conditioning can eliminate sensation such that HD-tDCS can be applied in a blinded fashion and under a broad range of therapeutic and performance enhancement applications. Our HD-tDCS system allows non-invasive, safe, and targeted modulation of selected cortical structures for electrotherapies that are individualized as well as optimized for a range of therapeutic applications.
Range Expansion of an Introduced Mantid Iris oratoria and Niche Overlap with a Native Mantid Stagmomantis limbata (Mantodea: Mantidae)

Iris oratoria L. invaded southern California in the 1930s. We describe its subsequent northward and eastward expansion in the southwestern United States. The rate of expansion into Arizona suggests that human activities have played a part in its spread. This mantid has come into contact with a native species Stagmomantis limbata Hahn. We present 3 yr of field data on 2 components of niche overlap between these 2 species: overlap in habitat use over time and in diet. At a field site in Davis, CA, S. limbata hatched earlier in the season than did L. oratoria , and I. oratoria tended to persist longer into the year than did S. limbata . The diets of the species overlapped to a moderate extent, yet they differed with respect to prey type and length. S. limbata ate a greater proportion of orthopterans and mantids than did I. oratoria , and S. limbata ate longer prey than did I. oratoria . Additionally, S. limbata adults had longer pronota and forelegs than I. oratoria adults. This difference in body size might be an important cause of the dietary differences between the species. Furthermore, the earlier hatch date for S. limbata also might result in a reduction of size overlap and, consequently, diet overlap among nymphs of the 2 species. Thus, the differences in body size and phenology may be mechanisms that allow these species to coexist.
Pistols and petticoats, piety and purity: To Wong Foo, the queering of the American monomyth, and the marginalizing discourse of deification

–Recently, the mainstream media have begun to include positive portrayals of gays and lesbians. This essay suggests that these positive portrayals demand critical scrutiny to determine how they redefine mainstream culture and how they serve to challenge and/or reinforce heterosexual bias. In an analysis of To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar, we examine how a narrative film negotiates the practice of drag and represents gay male “drag queens” through a progressive refiguring of the monomythic themes which inform the popular genre of Western film.
The effect of hydration status on the echocardiographic measurements of normal cats.

Background: Diagnosis of cardiomyopathy of cats is based on 2-dimensional (2D) echocardiography. However, circulatingfluid volume largely determines diastolic cardiac chamber dimensions, and reduced diastolic volume in other species results inwhat has been called ‘‘pseudohypertrophy of the ventricular myocardium.’’Hypothesis: Altered hydration produces changes on 2D echocardiography that may confound the diagnosis or severityassessment of cardiomyopathy of cats.Animals: Ten normal colony-sourced mixed breed cats were included.Methods: Cats were examined by echocardiography at baseline and at completion of 3 protocols (volume depletion andmaintenance-rate and anesthetic-rate IV fluid administration) applied in randomized crossover design with a 6–7 day washoutperiod.Results: Volume depletion increased diastolic left ventricular interventricular septal (IVSd) and free wall diameter (4.5 6 0.4to 5.8 6 0.6 mm; P , .001) with wall thickness exceeding 6 mm in 4 cats. Diastolic left ventricular internal diameter (LVIDd)decreased, and reduction in systolic left ventricular internal diameter (LVIDs) produced end-systolic cavity obliteration in 7cats. Left-atrial-to-aortic-root ratio (LA:Ao, 1.4 6 0.2 to 1.2 6 0.1, P , .05) and left atrial area in diastole (LAAd) decreasedwith volume depletion. Maintenance-rate IV fluid administration increased LAAd and fractional shortening (FS%).Anesthetic-rate IV fluid administration increased LVIDd, FS%, LAAd, and LA:Ao ratios (to 1.7 6 0.1, P , .01), producingan LA:Ao ratio above normal limits in 6 cats. A systolic heart murmur developed with administration of fluid at maintenance(n 5 1) and anesthetic rates (n 5 6).Conclusions: Altered hydration status produces changes in the echocardiographic examination of normal cats that may leadto an erroneous diagnosis of cardiomyopathy or mask its presence. Hydration status should be considered duringechocardiographic examination in cats.Key words: Dehydration; Fluid administration; Heart murmur; Pseudohypertrophy; Volume depletion.
Temporal Trends in Patient Characteristics and Outcomes Among Medicare Beneficiaries Undergoing Primary Prevention Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator Placement in the United States, 2006–2010 Results from the National Cardiovascular Data Registry’s Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator Registry

Background—Contemporary patterns of use and outcomes of implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) in community practice settings are not well characterized. We assessed temporal trends in patient characteristics and outcomes among older patients undergoing primary prevention ICD therapy in US hospitals between 2006 and 2010. Methods and Results—Using the National Cardiovascular Data Registry’s ICD Registry, we identified Medicare fee-for-service beneficiaries aged ≥65 years and older with left ventricular ejection fraction ≤35% who underwent primary prevention ICD implantation, including those receiving concomitant cardiac resynchronization therapy between 2006 and 2010 and could be matched to Medicare claims. Outcomes were mortality and hospitalization (all-cause and heart failure) at 180 days, and device-related complications. We used multivariable hierarchical logistic regression to assess temporal trends in outcomes accounting for changes in patient, physician, and hospital characteristics. The c...
Evaluation of Vegetation Indices for Early Assessment of Corn Status and Yield Potential in the Southeastern United States

Published in Agron. J. 106:1389–1401 (2014) doi:10.2134/agronj13.0578 Copyright © 2014 by the American Society of Agronomy, 5585 Guilford Road, Madison, WI 53711. All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher. AbStrACt The use of crop canopy sensors for variable rate nitrogen (VRN) application in corn (Zea mays L.) production across the southeastern United States implies assessment of corn N status as early as the V6 growth stage. Our goals were to identify vegetation indices (VIs) that best: (i) correlate with plant status variables such as leaf area index (LAI) and leaf chlorophyll (Chl) and (ii) predict corn grain yield at early growth stages. An N fertilization study was conducted between 2010 and 2012 at three Alabama sites. Six N fertilizer rates (0–280 kg N ha–1 on 56 kg N ha–1 increments) were applied at planting. Data collected at V6, V8, V10 vegetative growth stages were leaf Chl, LAI, and spectral reflectance. Data showed that corn N response could be influenced by the rainfall preand postN application as well as the soil texture. Among 11 vegetation indices evaluated through a canonical correlation analysis, the normalized difference red-edge (NDRE), Chl index red-edge [CI (RE)], simple ratio red-edge [SR (RE)], and inverse simple ratio red-edge [ISR (RE)] had the strong correlation with plant status variables. Vegetation index-based corn yield prediction was the lowest at V6 and the highest at V10 stage. At V8 and V10 stages, the yield models based on NDRE, CI (RE), or SR (RE) explained most of yield variation. These results indicated that early season estimation of crop N status and yield potential may be more accurate if red-edge vegetation indices are used.
Neural integration and enhancement from the inferior colliculus up to different layers of auditory cortex.

While the cochlear implant has successfully restored hearing to many deaf patients, it cannot benefit those without a functional auditory nerve or an implantable cochlea. As an alternative, the auditory midbrain implant (AMI) has been developed and implanted into deaf patients. Consisting of a single-shank array, the AMI is designed for stimulation along the tonotopic gradient of the inferior colliculus (ICC). Although the AMI can provide frequency cues, it appears to insufficiently transmit temporal cues for speech understanding because repeated stimulation of a single site causes strong suppressive and refractory effects. Applying the electrical stimulation to at least two sites within an isofrequency lamina can circumvent these refractory processes. Moreover, coactivation with short intersite delays (<5 ms) can elicit cortical activation which is enhanced beyond the summation of activity induced by the individual sites. The goal of our study was to further investigate the role of the auditory cortex in this enhancement effect. In guinea pigs, we electrically stimulated two locations within an ICC lamina or along different laminae with varying interpulse intervals (0–10 ms) and recorded activity in different locations and layers of primary auditory cortex (A1). Our findings reveal a neural mechanism that integrates activity only from neurons located within the same ICC lamina for short spiking intervals (<6 ms). This mechanism leads to enhanced activity into layers III–V of A1 that is further magnified in supragranular layers. This integration mechanism may contribute to perceptual coding of different sound features that are relevant for improving AMI performance.
Interferon-induced organic mental disorders associated with unsuspected pre-existing neurologic abnormalities.

Eleven patients ranging in age from 52 to 80 years, undergoing treatment for cancer with various preparations of interferon received neurobehavioral evaluations after experiencing unexpectedly severe organic mental disorders. The reactions ranged from delirium to extrapyramidal symptoms, mania, and neurasthenia with catatonic episodes. Computed tomographic (CT) scans of the brain disclosed unsuspected pre-existing neurologic abnormalities in all patients, including cerebral atrophy (6/11), brain metastases (4/11), and evidence of head injury incurred 40 years earlier (l/11). These findings suggest that cancer patients with pre-existing neurologic dysfunctions are at increased risk for severe interferon neurotoxicity.
The current status of women in department store retailing: 1993

Abstract This study replicates the work of Gable, Gillespie and Topol (1984) that examined women 's status in the managerial ranks of department store retailing. During the past decade, women have made significant gains at all levels of management. They constitute 67 percent of all lower-level management positions, 41 percent of all middle-levels positions, and 21 percent of all upper-level positions. While progress has been made, women are not close to parity with men at the highest level positions in department store retailing.
Sloshing eigenvalues of two-dimensional regions with holes

In this article we give rigorous lower and upper bounds for the sloshing frequencies of an inviscid fluid which completely fills a two-dimensional rectangular region with holes in the top. Our lower bounds are obtained by using intermediate problems with special choice and the upper bounds using Rayleigh-Ritz.
The Effect of Sterol Structure on Membrane Lipid Domains Reveals How Cholesterol Can Induce Lipid Domain Formation

Detergent-insoluble membrane domains, enriched in saturated lipids and cholesterol, have been implicated in numerous biological functions. To understand how cholesterol promotes domain formation, the effect of various sterols and sterol derivatives on domain formation in mixtures of the saturated lipid dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC) and a fluorescence quenching analogue of an unsaturated lipid was compared. Quenching measurements demonstrated that several sterols (cholesterol, dihydrocholesterol, epicholesterol, and 25-hydroxycholesterol) promote formation of DPPC-enriched domains. Other sterols and sterol derivatives had little effect on domain formation (cholestane and lanosterol) or, surprisingly, strongly inhibit it (coprostanol, androstenol, cholesterol sulfate, and 4-cholestenone). The effect of sterols on domain formation was closely correlated with their effects on DPPC insolubility. Those sterols that promoted domain formation increased DPPC insolubility, whereas those sterols that inhibit...
Gamma Knife Radiosurgery for Renal Cell Carcinoma and Melanoma Brain Metastases-Higher Doses to Treat Melanoma <4 mL to Improve Local Control

Objective: To retrospectively examine renal cell carcinoma (RCC) vs. melanoma local control (LC) dose responsiveness. Methods: 88 patients (RCC=38; melanoma=50) with 235 tumors (RCC=92; melanoma=143) were treated with Gamma Knife from Dec. 2005 to Aug. 2012. LC was compared between RCC vs. melanoma and then at each margin dose (≤18 Gy, 20 Gy, 22 Gy, and 24 Gy). Patient survival and toxicity were analyzed. Median follow-ups were 9.8 months (RCC) and 5.4 months (melanoma). Results: Patient characteristics were similar between RCC and melanoma with respect to gender, age, KPS, GPA, lesions per patient, and tumor volume. For all margin doses, LC at 6 months was 98.6% (RCC) vs. 79.2% (melanoma). When broken down by margin dose, at ≤18 Gy (P 0.05). Small melanoma tumors (<4 ml) exhibited LC dose dependence. Median survival was 16.1 months (RCC) or 9.6 months (melanoma). Toxicity was not significantly different between the two histologies and margin doses. Conclusions: RCC had significantly better LC than melanoma after radiosurgery. Higher doses could be used for melanoma tumors <4 ml to improve melanoma LC.
How Ethical are U.S. Business Executives? A Study of Perceptions

Not much has been written about how the ethics of U.S. business executives are perceived by the American public, yet the perception of integrity is important to both businesses and their investors. This study examines the U.S. public’s perceptions of the ethics of American business executives using Gallup Poll data for the past thirty years. Organizations with unethical executives have trouble attracting investors, customers, and new managerial talent. They suffer lawsuits, market share deterioration, and often prison time for the once-revered leaders. This study also looked at the U.S.’s relative standing on the Corruption Perceptions Index and the Edelman Trust Barometer. Confidence in the ethics of the U.S. business executive remains fairly low on the Gallup Poll surveys and the U.S. has declined on the CPI and Edelman Trust Barometer.
Ion beam assisted texturing of polycrystalline Y2O3 films deposited via electron-beam evaporation

Abstract Ion-beam assisted deposition of polycrystalline Y 2 O 3 films using e-beam evaporation was investigated. For growth on non-crystalline substrates, low temperature growth yields randomly oriented polycrystalline material. At elevated temperature, surface energy anisotropy yields a (111) uniaxial texture. For film deposition with irradiation from an Ar ion beam, the out-of-plane texture remained (111) in orientation. The incident Ar ion beam induces an in-plane alignment of the Y 2 O 3 films that is relatively broad. A six-fold symmetry in the out-of-plane X-ray diffraction phi-scans was observed for the (111) textured Y 2 O 3 films, indicating a multi-variant in-plane texture and suggesting anisotropic damage along both the (110) and (100) projections. The lack of a sharp, single variant in-plane texture with ion beam irradiation is consistent with the relatively weak bond strength in Y 2 O 3 .
Effects of administration of murine recombinant IL-4 on the resistance of mice to Listeria monocytogenes infection.

Abstract Mice given recombinant murine interleukin-4 as a single i.v. bolus concomitant with a Listeria monocytogenes challenge did not display increased antilisteria resistance. Under certain conditions, IL-4 administration slightly increased the bacterial burdens in the spleens and livers of infected mice. This finding is consistent with previous reports that endogenous IL-4, or transfer of IL-4 producing TH 2 cells, can be detrimental to host defense against microbial infection.
Substance Abuse Among Reproductive Age Women

Substance abuse poses significant health risks to reproductive age women in the United States and, for those who become pregnant, to their children. Substance abuse or dependence is defined as a maladaptive pattern of substance use marked by recurrent and significant negative consequences related to the repeated use of substances. Alcohol is the most prevalent substance consumed by childbearing-aged women, followed by tobacco and various illicit drugs. Substance use in the preconception period predicts continued but often limited substance use during the prenatal period. Providers must be aware of reproductive age women's unique physiologic, psychological, and social needs and the related legal and ethical ramifications surrounding substance abuse before referral to a community-based multidisciplinary team for often long-term treatment.
The Politics and Aesthetics of Operatic Modernism

A survey of European trends and works suggests that the extent to which operatic modernism resists the pull of ideology may well depend on two factors: the post-Wagnerian recuperation of the primacy of voice and the proclivity of modernist operatic texts and music to engage (rather than repress) nostalgia. One work not usually included in modernist canons, Erich Korngold's Die Tote Stadt, presents an interesting model.
Direct, channel-to-channel clutter cancellation (DC4) with phase-interferometry in multi-channel SAR for detecting surface moving targets

In a synthetic aperture radar (SAR) image of the ground, moving targets appear at locations different from their true instantaneous locations on the ground. In a corresponding interferometric phase image, all points on the ground nominally appear as a continuum of phase differences while the moving targets appear as discontinuities. By threshold comparisons within the intensity and the phase images, we (and others) have shown that it is possible to detect moving targets in the SAR. In this paper we show that the detectability of moving targets in multi-channel SAR is further enhanced by a direct, channel-to-channel cancellation of the fixed ground image, which acts as the clutter.
Modeling of steel moment frames for seismic loads

Abstract Simple elastic models based on centerline dimensions of beams and columns are widely used for the design of steel moment resisting frames. However, for the performance prediction and evaluation of these structures, different nonlinear models are being used to better simulate their true behavior. Simple nonlinear modeling methods widely used as well as those with more detailed modeling representations are investigated and compared. A 9-story building and a 20-story building were designed for this study according to the 1997 NEHRP provisions. Different models for these structures were developed and analyzed statically and dynamically. The models investigated involved the use of centerline dimensions of elements or clear length dimensions, nonlinear springs for the beam connections, and linear or nonlinear springs for the panel zones. A second group of models also incorporated the fracturing behavior of beam connections to simulate the pre-Northridge connection behavior. Two suites of ground motions were used for the dynamic analysis: typical California and near fault ground motions. The differences in structural responses among different models for both suites of motions are investigated. According to static pushover analyses with roof displacement controlled, the benefit of the increase in capacity that results from the detailed models is consistently observed for both the 9-story and 20-story buildings. When the models were excited by different ground motions from each suite, the median responses of the more detailed models showed an increase in capacity and a decrease in demand as expected. However, due to the randomness inherent in the ground motions, variations were also observed. Overall, the model which incorporates clear length dimensions between beams and columns, panel zones and an equivalent gravity bay without composite action from the slab seems to be a practical model with appropriate accuracy.
Mechanical and fracture behavior of an artificially ultraviolet‐irradiated poly(ethylene‐carbon monoxide) copolymer

In this work, 1 wt % carbon monoxide (CO) poly(ethylene-carbon monoxide) (ECO) copolymer sheets were artificially exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light with a power density of 3 mW/cm2 for up to 130 h. A thorough mechanical characterization of the irradiated material was conducted, in which both the stress–strain data and the values of the quasistatic crack initiation and growth toughness were measured and correlated with companion uniaxial tensile tests and single-edge-notched fracture tests. Average values of the elastic modulus, failure strain, and failure stress were determined from the tensile tests. The full-field optical technique of digital image correlation was used to quantify in-plane deformation (displacements and displacement gradients) during the fracture experiments and to extract values of the crack initiation and growth fracture toughness. The elastic modulus increased monotonically with UV irradiation for the exposure times used in this investigation. In addition, for low irradiation times of less than 5 h, both the failure strain and failure stress of ECO decreased, and this caused a corresponding decrease in the crack initiation and growth toughness. However, for longer irradiation times, the failure strain remained almost invariable, whereas the failure stress increased by about 25% over that of unirradiated ECO. As a result, for longer irradiation times (>5 h), 1 wt % CO ECO became not only stiffer but also stronger and tougher, as quantified by companion fracture experiments. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 92: 139–148, 2004
Preparation, formation kinetics, and properties of polycrystalline Nd1.85Ce0.15Cu4-y obtained from a sol-gel precursor

Abstract Polycrystalline samples of Nd 1.85 Ce 0.15 CuO 4- y obtained from a sol-gel precursor were sintered and reduced under different conditions and studied by high resolution X-ray powder diffraction, electrical resistivity, and magnetic susceptibility measurements. X-ray diffraction measurements showed that the precursor, which is non-crystalline at temperatures as high as 300 °C, undergoes several decomposition steps up to about 500 °C, where the beginning of Nd 2- x Ce x CuO 4- y ( x ≈0) formation is observed. At 700 °C, the predominant phase is Nd 2- x Ce x CuO 4- y which coexists with CuO and CeO 2 . Single-phase Nd 1.85 Ce 0.15 CuO 4- y is obtained by heat treating the precursor in air at 1000 °C for 20 h. Electrical resistivity measurements on samples sintered below and above the eutectic temperature, and reduced under different conditions, reveal a semiconductor-like temperature dependence of the normal-state electrical resistivity. In addition, a striking double resistive superconducting transition with a Josephson-like lower temperature transition seems to be a common characteristic of these polycrystalline samples. Magnetic susceptibility measurements reveal a significant diamagnetic contribution at 5 K which occurs only below the Josephson coupling temperature. These features are discussed within the framework of a granular superconductor model.
Laser Light-Induced Physical Processes In Optical Materials: Persistent Spectral Hole-Burning

Persistent spectral hole-burning (PHB) is a photoinduced process in low temperature solids that may lead to a possible future application, frequency domain optical storage. The feasibility of such a data storage device depends critically upon having recording materials that undergo spectral hole-burning with certain well-defined characteristics. It is a stimulating challenge for the laser spectroscopist, photochemist, and physicist to find suitable materials and to devise detection techniques that make this application possible.
Flow management for QoS-controlled 'data connectivity' provisioning

The paper describes a management-oriented model for cost-effective 'data connectivity' provisioning between the peer entities of a networked multimedia application. The service provider (SP) may employ policy functions to map the application-prescribed flow specs onto the resource needs of connections carrying data flows. The model allows dynamic switching from one policy function to another, based on a notion of cost associated with the infrastructure resource usage, namely, the network bandwidth, for a given level of connectivity provisioning. Our strategy is to reduce the per-flow cost incurred by multiplexing many closely similar data flows on a single connection. The multiplexing brings in two benefits to the SP, without compromising the QoS needs of applications. First, it reduces the per-flow resource allocation due to the gains accrued from a statistical sharing of connection resources. Second, it amortizes the connection-level overhead across many flows. The level of cost reduction, and hence the revenue accrual, can be controlled by the SP using a range of policy functions that take into account the burstiness and loss/delay tolerance of data flows. The paper describes the functional mechanisms and signaling structures to realize our model of connectivity services. We have conducted studies of different types QoS-controlled data connections based on traffic measurements and simulation analysis to validate the model. The model can be easily incorporated into the TMN and DCOM frameworks that have been standardized for network service offerings.
Affect and exercise: positive affective expectations can increase post-exercise mood and exercise intentions

Prior research has found affect to predict exercise. Little research has examined the causal influence of exercise-related affect on exercise intentions. The purpose of this study was to test whether expectations about post-exercise affect can be successfully manipulated to produce changes in post-exercise affect and exercise intentions. We also tested whether cognitively elaborating on the expectation would increase the duration of the expectation effect. Participants (59 men, 89 women) were exposed to an affective expectation manipulation as well as an elaboration manipulation and then completed 10 min of light-intensity exercise on a stationary bicycle in the laboratory. Participants also completed a 2-week follow-up. Affective expectation participants displayed more positive post-exercise affect and exercise intentions than no-expectation participants (ps < .05). Affective expectation participants who also elaborated on that expectation reported more positive post-exercise affect during the follow-up than the no-elaboration participants (p < .05). Expectations about positive post-exercise affect can be experimentally manipulated to increase exercise-related feelings and intentions. The duration of this effect increases when individuals cognitively elaborate on the expectation.
Ultra-lowpower compressive wireless sensing for distributed wireless networks

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) developed for the monitoring of critical military or civilian infrastructures are expected to have long life cycle with ultra-low power consumption. An ultra-low power wireless sensing scheme is developed by exploiting the unique features of infrastructure monitoring systems, which usually have long latency tolerance, low data rate, and strong correlation among data collected by spatially distributed sensors. The wireless sensor nodes asynchronously transmit measured data through a new exponential-interval media access control (EI-MAC) scheme, which can asymptotically almost surely (a.a.s.) achieve collision-free communication by leveraging on the long latency tolerance and low data rate of the system. Two low power sensing schemes, namely, compressive detection (CD) and compressive transmission (CT), are proposed in recognition of the strong correlation among data samples collected by n spatially distributed sensing nodes. Both the two schemes are fully scalable; have ultra-low power consumption; have less distortion compared to conventional schemes; and allow the sensing nodes to operate asynchronously without central control. Theoretical analysis shows that the normalized mean square distortion of the recovered information scales as.
Two simple indexes for distributions of soil components among size classes

Abstract The destruction of soil aggregate structure in the field can lead to increased rates of erosion and decreased soil fertility. Methods developed to quantify aggregate stability have evolved around the application of disruptive forces that are comparable with those observed in the field, such as erosion, slaking and tillage. The indexes proposed here quantitatively summarize the degree of disruption with respect to a reference level based on the maximum disruption level possible for a given soil. The calculation takes into account the particle size distribution associated with the maximum level of disruption (texture) of the soil sample. The aggregation index can be calculated from the disruption index by difference. These indexes allow comparisons to be made between soil samples taken from several locations that have different initial aggregate distributions and textures. The characterization of an aggregate distribution in a single number (index) allows for easier statistical comparison of results from a wide range of studies. The indexes could potentially be used to characterize the change in distribution of organic matter after disruption associated with a given aggregate size distribution.
Quote-based competition and trade execution costs in NYSE-listed stocks ☆

Abstract This study examines quotations, order routing, and trade execution costs for seven markets that compete for orders in large-capitalization NYSE-listed stocks. The competitiveness of quote updates from each market varies with measures of the profitability of attracting additional order and with volatility and inventory measures. The probability of a trade executing on each market increases when the market posts competitive quotes. Execution costs for non-NYSE trades when the local market posts competitive (non-competitive) quotes are virtually the same (substantially exceed) costs for matched NYSE trades. Collectively, these results imply a significant degree of quote-based competition for order flow and are consistent with off-NYSE liquidity providers using competitive quotations to signal when they are prepared to give better-than-normal trade executions.
Probability semantics for quantifier logic

By supplying propositional calculus with a probability semantics we showed, in our 1996, that finite stochastic problems can be treated by logic-theoretic means equally as well as by the usual set-theoretic ones. In the present paper we continue the investigation to further the use of logical notions in probability theory. It is shown that quantifier logic, when supplied with a probability semantics, is capable of treating stochastic problems involving countably many trials.
An evolution of interval graphs

Abstract We present a model for random interval graphs which, like the model of Erdos and Renyi, exhibits an evolution from empty graphs to complete graphs. We determine various thresholds, including the common threshold for isolated vertices and connectivity.
Right words and left words: electrophysiological evidence for hemispheric differences in meaning processing.

Abstract Both cerebral hemispheres are involved in language processing, each playing a unique role that may derive from differences in knowledge organization and on-line meaning integration. Here, we examine lateralized differences in knowledge representation and retrieval using event-related potentials (ERPs) elicited by words in sentences. Volunteers read pairs of sentences ending with three target types: (1) expected words, (2) unexpected words from the expected semantic category, and (3) unexpected words from an unexpected category. Context was presented word by word at fixation while targets were presented two degrees to the right or left of fixation. ERPs to unexpected endings were more negative than those to expected endings in both visual fields. However, when presented to the right visual field (left hemisphere), unexpected items from the expected category elicited smaller N400s than those from an unexpected category. In contrast, when presented to the left visual field (right hemisphere) all unexpected endings elicited N400s of similar amplitude. Thus, while both hemispheres are sensitive to context, only the left hemisphere is sensitive to semantic similarity between an unexpected ending and the expected completion. The results suggest lateralized differences in how new information is integrated into sentences. We propose that right hemisphere processing is best characterized as `integrative'; new information is compared directly with context information. In contrast, left hemisphere processing is better characterized as `predictive'; the processing of context leads to an expectation about the semantic features of upcoming items and new information is compared with that expectation rather than directly with the context.
Confinement Effects on Cross-Linking within Electrostatic Layer-by-Layer Assemblies Containing Poly(allylamine hydrochloride) and Poly(acrylic acid)

Thermal cross-linking is widely used to impart stability or improved mechanical properties to layer-by-layer (LbL) assemblies. However, the kinetics of thermal cross-linking within LbL films is not well understood. Furthermore, because LbL films are generally ultrathin (<100 nm), the influence of confinement on cross-linking kinetics is potentially substantial. Using temperature-controlled ellipsometry, differential scanning calorimetry, and thermal gravimetric analysis, we are able to accurately track amide cross-linking within poly(allylamine hydrochloride)/poly(acrylic acid) LbL films. The rate of amidation is strongly influenced by film thickness and surface chemistry, which indicates that the observed “confinement effects” are primarily related to the catalytic contribution of hydroxyl groups present on the substrate’s surface. The analytical techniques presented herein highlight new ways to access thermochemical information within ultrathin LbL assemblies.
Research and Governance on Catalyst Abrasion for Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) System in Power Plant Boiler

This paper presents a research on the problem of catalyst failure in a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system. The preliminary analysis indicates that the catalyst failure is caused by abrasion. For this, firstly, the mechanism of abrasion is analyzed through a field experiment. Secondly, according to the results from the field experiment, a scheme is put forward to optimize the flow field. Finally, the application results show that the uniformity of fly ash distribution in the flue gas are improved prominently, the reliability of the SCR system is enhanced at the same time.
Nitrogen fixation associated withJuncus balticus and other plants of oregon wetlands

Abstract High rates of N2 fixation were associated withJuncus balticus Willd., and five other species of plants growing in wetlands. Intact plants in soil cores of 15.3 cm dia were assayed, using the C2H2 reduction method. There was a lag of about a day before high activity was observed, but linear rates of C2H2 evolution then occurred for at least 2 days. Higher rates were found when the cores were assayed in N2 rather than air, and O2 was not required for N2 fixation. At the soil temperature of about 15°C, the rates in N2 extrapolated to a N2-fixation rate of about 0.8 kg N·ha−1·d−1. The reason for the lag in activity was not clear, but it was not due to the time required for C2H2 diffusion into and C2H2 diffusion out of the cores. Our results suggest that high rates of N2 fixation may be associated with many plants growing in wet soils.
Can craving be modeled in animals? The relapse prevention perspective.

The mechanism that underlies craving is unknown, and this makes it difficult to model craving in any general way in animals. However, there is considerable evidence that conditioned “drug-like” and “drug-opposite” responses play a part in relapse during abstinence. In so much as these conditioned responses represent one type of mechanism that leads to craving, they can be used to develop animal models of craving. Indeed, there are several types of model already available that are based on drug-conditioned responses, and that are relevant. However, most current “drug conditioning models” have not been developed with the specific intention of modeling factors that predispose to relapse, and they have deficiencies for this purpose as a result. In addition, some of the drug-conditioning models are unsuitable for the study of alcohol rather than for more positively reinforcing drugs such as cocaine. This commentary considers first whether the existing models, and the concepts behind them, can be adapted to provide “craving models” and, secondly, whether the resulting models may be used to evaluate anti-relapse drugs. This purpose requires two levels of complexity, simple “screening tests” that suggest that a drug may be worth evaluating further, and models of more complex behavior that have face validity to relapse in the human subject, and have predictive value for therapeutic use in relapse. Finally, rather different animal models, based on the concepts of extinction and reinstatement, might be used to answer fundamental questions as to the mechanisms of relapse into use of alcohol. All the proposed types of animal models of craving are based on conditioned reinforcements, rather than being based on reinforcing effects of the drugs themselves (as are most of the current models). However, if the development of “craving models” based on conditioning will help us better understand relapse, then the therapeutic benefits that can be expected will make the effort worthwhile.