cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Zambia's Sap - A Response to Sam Okoroafo's Paper: 'Managerial Perceptions of the Impact of Economic Reform Measures on the Economic Reforms and Firm Performance in Restructuring Economies: A Comparative Assessment'

Based on an empirical study of the impact of the SAP on 43 manufacturing companies in Zambia, this study builds upon a similar one by Sam Okoroafo on (among 127 others) 13 companies in Zambia, previously published in the journal. Major experiences (both negative and positive) of the manufacturing sector during the early 1990s are explored. Among the major problems and issues that emerged from the 43 companies are: lack of foreign exchange for importation of raw materials on which the sector is dependent (as Okoroafo also found out), inability to do any strategic planning due to the stop-go, unpredictable Zambian policy environment, costly and unreliable local transportation, stiff competition as a result of trade liberalization, inadequate credit and adjustment loans from development finance institutions (DFIs), lack of knowledge about foreign markets, shortage of local managerial talent, and inability (among multinational companies) to remit dividends and royalties.
High-fidelity injection detectability experiments: a tool for evaluating syndromic surveillance systems.

INTRODUCTION When public health surveillance systems are evaluated, CDC recommends that the expected sensitivity, specificity, and timeliness of surveillance systems be characterized for outbreaks of different sizes, etiologies, and geographic or demographic scopes. High-Fidelity Injection Detectability Experiments (HiFIDE) is a tool that health departments can use to compute these metrics for detection algorithms and surveillance data that they are using in their surveillance system. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study is to develop a tool that allows health departments to estimate the expected sensitivity, specificity, and timeliness of outbreak detection. METHODS HiFIDE extends existing semisynthetic injection methods by replacing geometrically shaped injects with injects derived from surveillance data collected during real outbreaks. These injects maintain the known relation between outbreak size and effect on surveillance data, which allows inferences to be made regarding the smallest outbreak that can be expected to be detectable. RESULTS An example illustrates the use of HiFIDE to analyze detectability of a waterborne Cryptosporidium outbreak in Washington, DC. CONCLUSION HiFIDE enables public health departments to perform system validations recommended by CDC. HiFIDE can be obtained for no charge for noncommercial use (http://www.hifide.org).
Lower Limb Radiology Tutorial Designed to Enhance Anatomy Education and Medical Application of Anatomy

Abstract Introduction This tutorial was developed to cover the anatomy, imaging, and clinical significance of a single anatomical region: the lower limb. It was developed through a close collaborat...
Nonlinear Laser Melting of Indium Antimonide and Silicon

Pulsed 10.6µm TEA CO2 laser light has been used to melt the semiconductors silicon and InSb. Measurements indicate that generation of free carriers necessary for melting may take place by nonlinear processes such as two-photon absorption or intraband avalanche ionization. If the semiconductor is sufficiently doped, melting may also result from linear free carrier absorption. In all cases, it appears that the molten depth exceeds several µm, which is much greater than obtained with lasers of shorter wavelength.
Impurity-Induced Layer Disordering in AlxGa1−xAs-GaAs Quantum well Heterostructures -

Selective interdiffusion of Al and Ga at AlxGa1−x As-GaAs heterointerfaces can be carried out by conventional masking procedures and diffusion of acceptor impurities (e.g., Zn), or donor impurities (e.g., Si), or also by ion implantation. This process, impurity-induced layer disordering (IILD), makes it possible to convert quantum well heterostructures (QWHs) such as AlxGa1−xAs-GaAs superlattices (SLs) into bulk homogeneous AlyGa1−yAs where y is the average Al composition of the QWH or SL. Since th IILY process is maskable and thus selective, heterojunctions can be formed in directions perpendicular to the crystal growth direction, i.e., between as-grown “ordered” and IILD “disordered” regions. To date this process has been used most effectively in the fabrication of buriedheterostructure QW lasers, single and multiple stripe, where the disordered regions provide both optical and electrical confinement. The IILD process has also been used to advantage in the fabrication of high power laser diodes with non-absorbing “windows” at the laser facets and thus with better immunity from facet damage. In this paper we present data on the application of the IILD process to the fabrication of buried-heterostructure QW laser diodes. We also describe possible mechanisms by which the impurity-induced layer disordering proceeds based on Column III “Frenkel” defects and the influence of the crystal Fermi level on the defect solubility. These mechanisms are supported by experimental data.
Uneven-aged silviculture, southern style.

Key ~t~~u~s of these methods are that regulation is more important than balance, residual basal area drives stand developII&H, and regeneration is the first indicator of &tainability. Marking uneven-aged stands is best kept simple: mark to cut the poorest trees and leave the best, regardless of target structure or method of regeneration. To be successful in the long term, new methods of regulating uneven-aged and multiaged stands should share these attributes.
Point mutations in the conserved box 1 region inactivate the human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor receptor for growth signal transduction and tyrosine phosphorylation of p75c-rel

The human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor receptor (hG-CSFR) belongs to the cytokine receptor superfamily. As with other members of this family, the cytoplasmic domain of hG-CSFR lacks intrinsic tyrosine kinase activity. To identify critical regions mediating growth signal transduction by hG-CSFR, deletions or site-directed amino acid substitutions were introduced into the cytoplasmic domain of hG-CSFR, and the mutant cDNAs were transfected into the murine interleukin-3 (IL-3)-dependent Ba/F3 and FDCP cell lines. Truncation of the carboxy-terminal end of the receptor to the membrane-proximal 53 amino acids of the cytoplasmic domain, which retained the conserved Box 1 and Box 2 sequence motifs, decreased the ability of hG-CSFR to transduce G-CSF-mediated growth signals without an associated loss in receptor binding affinity. Substitution of proline by alanine at amino acid positions 639 and 641 within Box 1 completely abolished the G-CSF-mediated growth signal. Rapid induction of tyrosine phosphorylation of several cellular proteins, including a 75-kD protein (p75) identified as c-rel, was an early event associated with transduction of proliferative signals by hG-CSFR in Ba/F3 transfectants. Mutant receptors containing Pro-to-Ala substitutions that inactivated the receptor for mitogenic activity also inactivated the receptor for tyrosine-specific phosphorylation of p75. These results show that the conserved Box 1 sequence motif (amino acids 634 to 641) is critical for mitogenesis and activation of cellular tyrosine kinases by hG-CSFR.
Anesthetic considerations of cardiovascular risk during electroconvulsive therapy

This article focuses on anesthetic considerations of cardiovascular risk for electroconvulsive (ECT) therapy. Preoperative evaluation, intraoperative management, and postoperative care are reviewed. Although the anesthetic risk to ECT patients is quite low, elderly patients or those presenting with known cardiovascular disease may be at increased risk and need special intervention or management during ECT.
Finite Element Modeling of Chloride Diffusion in Concrete Using Image Processing for Characterizing Real Shape and Distribution of Different Phases

The objective of this work was to establish an approach to create a finite element based model using the actual image of the surface of the concrete. An image from the polished surface of a concrete specimen was prepared and used to develop the model. The model considered the actual shape of both fine and coarse aggregates and the interfacial transition zone (ITZ) around aggregates. To validate the model, concrete cylinders were exposed to chloride solution and the chloride penetration in concrete cylinders was measured at different times. Results showed that the model could precisely predict the chloride diffusion time, depth, and pattern through concrete. In addition, results indicated that it is imperative to consider all phases including the ITZ around both coarse and fine aggregate, when modeling concrete. The advantages and benefits of the image processing approach for model preparation, including incorporating all concrete phases with their real shapes, were discussed in this paper.
Third-order equivalence classes

Two experiments were conducted to examine the emergence of third-order equivalence classes. In Experiment 1, college students were trained in three successive phases to perform first-, second-, and third-order baseline conditional discriminations. In each phase, after attaining the baseline criterion, equivalence tests were conducted. Passing a test in a given phase was required for advancing to the next phase. Five of ten subjects showed performances consistent with third-order equivalence classes. To understand why higher-order relations sometimes did not emerge, the study was replicated. In Experiment 2, four subjects were instructed to talk aloud during all training and test phases. Two subjects showed third-order equivalence; the other two failed the second-order symmetry test and were unable to advance beyond Phase 2. A protocol analysis (Ericsson & Simon, 1980; Wulfert, Dougher, & Greenway, 1991) of their verbal responses revealed that their behavior was not controlled by the intended second-order conditional stimuli. When control by these stimuli was established through instructions, second-order, and in Phase 3 third-order, equivalence relations emerged. This research replicates previous studies on second-order equivalence and extends contextual control over emergent relations to the third order. The demonstration of complex emergent relations may have implications for a behavioral analysis of cognitive-verbal phenomena such as concept formation and classification.
Combined Use of Bivalirudin and Radial Access in Acute Coronary Syndromes Is Not Superior to the Use of Either One Separately: Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Abstract Objectives The aim of this meta-analysis was to study the relation between access site and bivalirudin use on outcomes in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Background Bivalirudin and radial access use are 2 strategies that are increasingly used to lower major bleeding in patients with ACS undergoing invasive approaches. The interaction between these 2 strategies and the benefit of using them in combination are unclear. Methods This analysis included randomized controlled trials that compared bivalirudin to heparin with or without glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors in patients with ACS and reported outcomes stratified by arterial access site. Meta-analyses of outcome data were performed on the basis of access site and anticoagulation regimen. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated from event rates using random-effects models. Results Eight trials with a total of 27,491 patients were included. Bivalirudin reduced major bleeding risk in patients with femoral access (OR: 0.51; 95% CI: 0.46 to 0.6; p Conclusions Bivalirudin reduces bleeding risk only with femoral access, and radial access reduces bleeding risk only with heparin anticoagulation. Therefore, there is no additional benefit to the combined use of bivalirudin and radial access strategies in patients with ACS.
Phenobarbetal for Childhood Epilepsy in Rural India

The acceptability of phenobarbital as a first-line drug for childhood epilepsy in rural settings in developing countries was studied using a randomized comparison of phenobarbital and phenytoin as monotherapy in West Bengal, India, and results were analyzed at the Institute of Child Health, University College London, UK, the MRC Biostatistics Unit, Cambridge, and Child-in-Need Institute, Daulutpur, West Bengal, India.
HIPS-GLAD core shell nanorod array photodetectors with enhanced photocurrent and reduced dark current

Vertically aligned core/shell nanorod array photodetectors were fabricated by high pressure sputter (HIPS) deposition of copper indium sulfide (CIS) films on glancing angle deposited (GLAD) indium sulfide (In2S3) nanorods. For comparison, we also studied nanorod photodetectors with conventional low pressure sputtered (LPS) CIS film coatings and counterpart thin film devices incorporating HIPS or LPS-CIS on In2S3 films. HIPS-GLAD core/shell photodetectors have shown a superior photocurrent density response along with lowest dark current density. Photoresponsivity defined with the photocurrent density/dark current density ratio γ = |J ph/J dark| was about ~1820 for HIPS-GLAD nanorod devices, which is several orders of magnitude higher compared to those of LPS-CIS thin film (γ ~ 2) and HIPS-CIS thin film (γ ~ 9) devices, and also about four-fold higher than LPS-CIS nanorod devices (γ ~ 490). Enhanced photoresponsivity is attributed to the porous microstructure and improved conformality of HIPS-CIS film around the In2S3 nanorods confirmed by SEM and EDS measurements. Due to randomization of the sputtered flux at higher working gas pressures, HIPS can provide a more conformal while at the same time a voidy low-density film around nanostructured surfaces. Reduced interelectrode distance and improved p–n junction interface due to the more uniform conformality of HIPS-CIS result in a higher photocurrent in our HIPS-GLAD devices. In addition, the voids in HIPS-CIS film as a result of its porous nature can behave as highly resistive spots that lower the dark current. Therefore, we have demonstrated that by utilizing a simple and low-temperature HIPS-GLAD method, high-photocurrent and low-dark-current photodetectors can be achieved by controlling the conformality and microstructure of a shell layer around nanorod arrays. HIPS shell coating method can be extended to almost any type of nanostructured substrate.
Analysis of a Fabry-Perot open resonator

A numerical simulation has been carried out on a Fabry-Perot open resonator excited through a beam splitter and loaded with a plate. The results show that, while the influence of the beam splitter is negligible when the plate is resonant, the beam splitter plays a very important role in measuring an off-resonance plate of a low loss material.
Drought adaptation and development: small-scale irrigated agriculture in northeast Brazil

Water scarcity has intensified in northeast Brazil over the past decade. The same period has brought economic growth, aggressive government-funded social support programmes, and technological advancements. These latter factors have led to widespread, successful, and largely unintended adaptation to increasing climatic stress. With specific focus on the experience of irrigated farmers in Pernambuco during the 2011–2013 drought, the worst in a half century, in this article, we examine how Brazil’s societal changes have led to the emergence of unique climate adaptation strategies. To put this into context, income diversification, particularly in the form of employment in clothing production, provides a stable back-up income for farmers amidst environmental uncertainty. Aggressive poverty alleviation programmes, foundational to the presidential administrations of Lula da Silva and Dilma Rousseff, have had the spillover benefit of decreasing climate vulnerability. Efficient irrigation technology, which farmers...
Molecular Products and Fundamentally Based Reaction Pathways in the Gas-Phase Pyrolysis of the Lignin Model Compound p-Coumaryl Alcohol.

The fractional pyrolysis of lignin model compound para-coumaryl alcohol (p-CMA) containing a propanoid side chain and a phenolic OH group was studied using the System for Thermal Diagnostic Studies at temperatures from 200 to 900 °C, in order to gain mechanistic insight into the role of large substituents in high-lignin feedstocks pyrolysis. Phenol and its simple derivatives p-cresol, ethyl-, propenyl-, and propyl-phenols were found to be the major products predominantly formed at low pyrolysis temperatures (<500 °C). A cryogenic trapping technique was employed combined with EPR spectroscopy to identify the open-shell intermediates registered at pyrolysis temperatures above 500 °C. These were characterized as radical mixtures primarily consisting of oxygen-linked conjugated radicals. A comprehensive potential energy surface analysis of p-CMA and p-CMA + H atom systems was performed using various DFT protocols to examine the possible role of concerted molecular eliminations and free-radical mechanisms in t...
Pb(II) disruption of synaptic activity through Ca(II)- and Zn(II)-binding proteins

Metal toxicity is a pervasive global health problem due to the increasing bioavailability of non-essential metals released into the environment as a result of human industry. Neurotoxicity occurs at the molecular level through various mechanisms of metal dyshomeostasis, resulting in acute and chronic systemic pathologies. Research in our laboratory and others has demonstrated that divalent lead (Pb 2+ ) can replace numerous essential metals in proteins, including both Ca 2+ and Zn 2+ , which play prominent roles in neural activities. The promiscuous nature of Pb 2+ ions is likely due to the polarizable nature of the ion which allows it to readily conform to a variety of different metal binding geometries and coordination numbers, and bind opportunistically in regions of proteins outside of known metal binding sites, which may alter protein structure and allosterically inhibit function. Because Pb 2+ is deeply entwined in Ca 2+ -regulated activities, and given the extensive and integral involvement of Ca 2+ -signaling in neural pathways, the purpose of this brief review is to highlight recent research efforts to understand the mechanisms through which Pb 2+ can interfere with neurotransmission and synaptic activity in Ca 2+ - and Zn 2+ -signaling pathways in neurons.
Ethical professional identity and the development of moral exemplar collegiate coaches

AbstractCoaches have the potential to influence athletes’ moral development, especially at the collegiate level—a powerful period of growth in young adults’ lives. As central agents in athlete moral education, coaches’ moral development and understanding of professionalism is currently unknown. The purpose of this study was to increase understanding of the ethical professional identity development of sport coaches. In-depth interviews based on moral exemplar and moral identity development theories were conducted with NCAA Division-I collegiate head coaches (n = 12) in the United States who were peer nominated ‘moral exemplars’. Interviews elicited themes of moral exemplarity, professionalism, and above average ethical identity development. Results can inform and improve coach education for current and future members of the profession.
Diagnoses and characteristics of autism spectrum disorders in children with Prader-Willi syndrome

A small percentage of people with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) have alterations in chromosome 15q11.2-q3, the critical region for Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS). Data are limited, however, on the rates and characteristics of ASD in PWS. Previous estimates of ASD in PWS (25 to 41%) are questionable as they are based solely on autism screeners given to parents. Inaccurate diagnoses of ASD in PWS can mislead intervention and future research. One hundred forty-six children and youth with PWS aged 4 to 21 years (M = 11) were assessed with the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule-2 (ADOS-2). An expert clinical team-made best-estimate ASD diagnoses based on ADOS-2 videotapes, calibrated severity scores, and children’s developmental histories and indices of current functioning. Children were also administered the Kaufman Brief Intelligence Test-2, and parents completed the Repetitive Behavior Scale-Revised and Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales. Scores were compared across children with PWS + ASD versus PWS only. The performance of an ASD screener, the Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ) and the ADOS-2 were evaluated in relation to best-estimate diagnoses. Best-estimate diagnoses of ASD were made in 18 children, or 12.3% of the sample, and the majority of them had the maternal uniparental disomy (mUPD) PWS genetic subtype. Compared to the PWS-only group, children with PWS + ASD had lower verbal and composite IQ’s and adaptive daily living and socialization skills, as well as elevated stereotypies and restricted interests. Regardless of ASD status, compulsivity and insistence on sameness in routines or events were seen in 76–100% of children and were robustly correlated with lower adaptive functioning. The SCQ yielded a 29–49% chance that screen-positive cases will indeed have ASD. The ADOS-2 had higher sensitivity, specificity and predictive values. Communication problems were seen in children who were ADOS-2 positive but deemed not to have ASD by the clinical team. Autism screeners should not be the sole index of probable ASD in PWS; children need to be directly observed and evaluated. Compulsivity and insistence on sameness are salient in PWS and likely impede adaptive functioning. Most children with PWS only evidenced sub-threshold problems in social interactions that could signal risks for other psychopathologies.
Abstract 455: Prooxidative Effects of Ambient Pollutant Chemicals are Inhibited by HDL

Exposure to air pollution leads to adverse pulmonary and systemic vascular effects. High levels of plasma HDL cholesterol reduce cardiovascular risk. We explored whether HDL could protect against the prooxidative effects of an organic extract of diesel exhaust particles (DEP) in vascular cells. We used a cell-free fluorescent assay to evaluate DEP oxidation by air, estimated by the degree of Dichlorofluorescein (DCF) fluorescence and tested the ability of HDL to inhibit it. We also evaluated DEP prooxidative effects in bovine aortic endothelial cells and RAW264.7 macrophages by DCF fluorescence. DEP oxidation and prooxidative cellular effects occurred in concentration- and time-dependent manners. Normal HDL inhibited DEP oxidation and prooxidative cellular effects while dysfunctional HDL failed to inhibit DEP oxidation and instead, it promoted further oxidation. In conclusion, DEP prooxidative effects in endothelial cells and macrophages are inhibited by normal HDL. Therefore, HDL may protect against air pollution-mediated adverse vascular effects.
Self-Directed Intervention to Promote Self-Forgiveness

Intervention research promoting self-forgiveness for one’s wrongdoing or perception of “wrong-being” has only recently been initiated. Self-directed interventions are an important strategy, because offenses may cause feelings of self-condemnation that elicit avoidance-oriented coping and discourage individuals from seeking traditional modalities of psychotherapy (e.g., individual, group, couple, or family settings). Also, self-directed interventions can circumvent logistic barriers to traditional methods of delivering psychotherapy (e.g., geographic isolation, financial insecurity, and help-seeking stigma). In the current chapter, we offer a critical overview of self-directed interventions for decreasing self-condemnation and increasing self-forgiveness, acknowledging advantages and disadvantages of using self-directed treatments compared to more intensive treatment modalities. We conclude by identifying directions for future research and practical implications situating self-directed interventions alongside more traditional modalities of delivering psychological services within a triaged care model.
Capacitor Distortion in Magnetic Particle Imaging

The signal-to-noise ratio in magnetic particle imaging can be limited by distortion interference arising in the imaging system. In this work, we investigate the contribution of resonant transmit capacitors to system interference. Feedthrough interference spectra obtained using four capacitors with varying voltage ratings in a custom MPI interference testbed show a 20dB reduction in distortion interference with higherrated capacitors. Finally, we discuss the applicability of the interference testbed to treat other interference mechanisms in magnetic particle imaging.
Ectomycorrhizal host specificity in a changing world: can legacy effects explain anomalous current associations?

Despite the importance of ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungi in forest ecosystems, knowledge about the ecological and co-evolutionary mechanisms underlying ECM host associations remains limited. Using a widely distributed group of ECM fungi known to form tight associations with trees in the family Pinaceae, we characterized host specificity among three unique Suillus-host species pairs using a combination of field root tip sampling and experimental bioassays. We demonstrate that the ECM fungus S. subaureus can successfully colonize Quercus hosts in both field and glasshouse settings, making this species unique in an otherwise Pinaceae-specific clade. Importantly, however, we found that the colonization of Quercus by S. subaureus required co-planting with a Pinaceae host. While our experimental results indicate that gymnosperms are required for the establishment of new S. subaureus colonies, Pineaceae hosts are locally absent at both our field sites. Given the historical presence of Pineaceae hosts before human alteration, it appears the current S. subaureus-Quercus associations represent carryover from past host presence. Collectively, our results suggest that patterns of ECM specificity should be viewed not only in light of current forest community composition, but also as a legacy effect of host community change over time.
Collaboration in Innovation Ecosystems: Firm Strategy and Inter-organizational Ties

Innovation ecosystems are characterized by strong inter-dependencies between a focal firm and its suppliers, competitors, customers and complementors. This would lead us to expect that partnership ...
Can animals predict earthquakes?: Bio-sentinels as seismic sensors in communist China and beyond.

Abstract This paper examines the international research on abnormal animal behavior prior to earthquakes, with a focus on Chinese seismology during the Cultural Revolution. China experienced a series of powerful earthquakes in the 1960s and 1970s; in response, its scientists developed approaches to earthquake prediction, including the use of bio-sentinels. The paper demonstrates that Chinese seismology did not treat an earthquake simply as a geophysical event, but rather as an amalgam of environmental phenomena, including sensory experiences. Hence, distributive experience and sensory networks of humans and bio-sentinels constituted an important component of studying the environment. This historical case suggests insights into bio-monitoring of the global environment.
Change in gene expression of toll-like receptor pathways in response to preseason conditioning in elite NCAA Division 1 wrestlers

This study examined the effects of both a single bout of intense exercise and 1 month of intense preseason conditioning on the expression of Toll-like receptor (TLR) proteins and signaling pathways. Eight elite Division I wrestlers were followed through the preseason training period. Blood samples were collected before preseason training started (at rest), after two weeks of training (within 30-60 minutes after completing a ~1.5 hour exhaustive exercise session) and following the pre-season training period (at rest). After the collection of blood samples from the athletes, peripheral blood mono-nuclear cells (PBMC) were separated from the whole blood samples. Messenger RNA was isolated from the PBMC’s and TLR focused gene expression was measured using DNA microarray. Illness records were collected over the wresting season. The microarray results demonstrated a significant change (p<.05) in gene expression for seven genes following the single bout of intense exercise (decrease in IFNγ, IRF-1, IL-6 and an increase in PGLYRP2, LY86, TIRAP, TLR5), and a decrease in seven genes following the one month training period (PRKRA, SARM1, IFNα, TLR3, PTGS2, TNFSRF1, REL). The decrease in IFNγ in response to one bout of exhaustive exercise was significantly correlated with the number of events with cold symptoms lasting longer than 1 week (p=0.02). Similarly, the decrease in REL and PTGS2 expression after preseason training were correlated with increased in the total number of days with illness symptoms. The findings from this study have demonstrated that changes in TLR gene expression do occur in response to intense exercise training, and that these changes may be correlated with subsequent infection.
A comparative study on neural network-based prediction of smart community energy consumption

This paper presents a comparative study on designing accurate prediction of future energy consumption at both the household level and the community level. Different Neural Network (NN), including conventional NN, Deep Neural Networks (DNN), and Sliding Window Neural Networks (SWNN), are compared in this work, where a SWNN uses a window of historical data to predict the future energy consumption. Our experimental study shows that the conventional NN can achieve high accuracy in prediction while deep NN does not generate better results. Through data normalization and temporal relationship exploration, SWNN becomes superior to conventional methods and achieves above 99.5% accuracy with a more condensed error distribution.
Sex Chromosome and X-Linked Disorders

The discussion on sex chromosome and X-linked disorders is combined in one chapter because cytogenetic techniques used in diagnosis are common to both. The relatively few sex chromosome disorders occur commonly (see below) but are mostly not associated with fatality or severe mental retardation. In contrast, there are about 200 X-linked disorders (McKusick, 1978), many being fatal and associated with mental retardation or serious defects. Nevertheless, X-linked disorders still serve as an uncommon indication for prenatal diagnosis. (Table I) In our first 2000 prenatal diagnosis cases, 1.3% were in this category, an experience reflected in the Worldwide Survey data (see Chapter 5). One important explanation is that X-linked disorders are seen by physicians in all specialties, e.g., dermatology (Milunsky, 1973) and ophthalmology (Milunsky, 1974, 1977), who have not customarily thought about prenatal diagnosis and avoiding the birth of affected progeny.
Cuts Commute with Closures

We are concerned with certain useful special properties which fuzzy relations on a set may possess or lack. They are generalizations of properties of crisp relations, which is to say that the fuzzy definitions coincides with the crisp definition whenever the the relation in question is in fact crisp.
Seed Quality and Performance

Seed is functionally defined as a reproductive unit, in contrast with grain that is fed to animals or used directly or indirectly as a food or in food products. Although the harvested propagule is the same, unlike grain the seed must be alive and capable of producing a seedling. Seed production is therefore more challenging and rigorous than grain production. High quality seed has many important attributes and benefits that lead to excellent performance in the field. The success of the seed industry has been based on these tenets. Farmers, home gardeners, greenhouse operators, and others recognize that high quality seeds produced by reputable seed companies are usually needed for success.
Incipient Damage Detection for Large Area Structures Monitored With a Network of Soft Elastomeric Capacitors Using Relative Entropy

Structural health monitoring of mesoscale structures is difficult due to their large sizes and often complex geometries. A solution to this challenge lies in the development of sensing skins. Sensing skins are an emerging technology that enables a broad range of sensors and their associated electronics to be integrated onto a single sheet, therefore, reducing the cost and complexity associated with deploying these dense sensor networks onto mesoscale structures. This paper presents a new algorithm for the detection and localization of incipient damage in structures. The algorithm is specialized for a sensing skin consisting of a large area electronic termed as soft elastomeric capacitor. The proposed algorithm utilizes relative entropy to quantify the dissimilarity between one sensor and every other sensor in the network, with more weight placed on the dissimilarities between the sensor of interest and those in its immediate vicinity. The algorithm is data-driven and does not require the healthy condition be known or historical data sets be available to generate damage sensitive indexes. Numerical simulations are used to demonstrate the effectiveness of the data-driven algorithm in both detecting and localizing incipient damage.
Analysis of SCADA Security Using Penetration Testing: A Case Study on Modbus TCP Protocol

This paper presents an insight into attacks on Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems specifically focusing on systems that use the Modbus TCP protocol. A penetration testing approach is adopted using a novel penetration testing tool to (i) test the effectiveness and efficiency of the tool, (ii) examine the insider threat as well as the external threat through internal and external penetration testing respectively and (iii) rate the vulnerabilities identified through the penetration tests according to the Common Vulnerability Scoring System. The study also examines and tests the existing security countermeasures that are unique to SCADA systems and outlines some recommendations that may improve security in SCADA systems. The experimental results show that some of the attacks may severely impact integrity and availability.
How to Study Socially Monogamous Behavior in Secretive Animals? Using Social Network Analyses and Automated Tracking Systems to Study the Social Behavior of Prairie Voles

Accurately recording the social and mating behavior of wild animals is necessary to test hypotheses regarding the evolution of monogamous behavior but documenting the behavior of most wild animals is challenging. Social network analyses can use patterns of spatial and temporal co-occurrence to describe the social associations of individuals within a population, such as which opposite-sex individuals are found together more frequently than others as an indicator of their degree of social monogamy. Social networks generated using automated radio frequency identification (RFID) tracking systems may provide insights into the social behavior of secretive animals because they enable the automated and continuous tracking of the social associations among individuals, which can address many of the limitations with studying these kinds of species. We assessed the potential for social networks generated using an automated RFID tracking system to describe the social behavior of prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster) in semi-natural enclosures. Our aim was to assess whether social networks generated using the RFID system provided meaningful insights into the social behavior of voles by comparing this method to other methods that have been traditionally used in laboratory (partner preference tests) or field (degree of home range overlap) studies to study social monogamy in prairie voles. In partner preference tests conducted in the field, females spent more time with males with which they had stronger social network associations. Voles that had stronger social network associations also had home ranges that overlapped considerably more than dyads with lower social network associations. In addition, social networks generated from live-trapping and RFID data were comparable but social networks generated using data from our RFID system recorded almost twice as many social associations overall. Our results show that social association metrics derived from social networks generated using the RFID tracking system reflect other commonly used measures of social monogamy in prairie voles. Overall, this suggests that patterns of spatial and temporal co-occurrence are meaningful measures of social monogamy in wild animals.
Influence of Bibenzoate Regioisomers on Cyclohexanedimethanol-Based (Co)polyester Structure–Property Relationships

Melt polymerization enabled the synthesis of semi-aromatic (co)polyesters containing 1,4-cyclohexanedimethanol (CHDM), 4,4′-bibenzoate (4,4′BB), and 3,4′-bibenzoate (3,4′BB). Proton nuclear magneti...
Psychiatry/Medicine: A Comparison of Factors in Resident Role Satisfaction

A survey of residents of the various elements in their training that contribute to role satisfaction was constructed and given to 31 psychiatric residents at a university training program, and to 69 medical residents at the same institution. The psychiatric residents were older and more likely to be female than their internal medicine counterparts. Psychiatric residents were more concerned about outpatient education and less concerned about the work involved than the internal medicine residents. The two groups differed on the importance attributed to the socio-demographic class of patients. The results are discussed in terms of factors contributing to specialty choice selection and also in terms of stress factors operating on residents in different types of training.
Many-Body Dispersion in Molecular Clusters.

Many-body dispersion has gained considerable attention over the past decade, particularly for condensed phase systems. However, quantitatively accurate studies of many-body dispersion have only recently become feasible due to challenges in reliability and accuracy. Currently available methodologies for calculating many-body dispersion have been challenged, with recent evidence suggesting, for example, that dispersion-corrected density functional theory (DFT) schemes cannot consistently predict many-body dispersion accurately. This study evaluates many-body dispersion energies using a composite approach that employs singles and doubles coupled cluster theory with perturbative/noniterative triples, CCSD­(T), combined with an extrapolation to the complete basis set (CBS) limit. The combined CCSD­(T)/CBS approach is applied to Arn and (H2O)n, n = 3–10, clusters, and a new data set called S22(3), which includes trimers generated based on the S22 data set. In these systems, the many-body dispersion provides a very small contribution to the total interaction energy of all of the systems studied, generally 3% or less of the total interaction energy. Two-body dispersion is the dominant dispersion contribution and many-body dispersion contributes no more than 5.7% of the total dispersion energy, generally staying below 2%.
Microcomputer as teacher/researcher in a nontraditional setting

Abstract Use of the microcomputer as a teaching and research tool in a nontraditional field setting (Museum of Medical Sciences) is described. The goal was to determine how museum visitors' reactions and preferences concerning computer-based presentation of nutrition information depended upon demographic factors. The computer presented automated treatments to approximately 5000 users, controlled maximum item-presentation durations, randomized presentation orders, monitored and recorded responses, and randomly saved responses from 936 users. The program's potential to change nutrition behavior depended upon the age and race of the user. Nutrition topic preferences depended upon age, race, and sex. Results illustrate the unique capacity of the microcomputer to simultaneously assume the dual roles of effective teacher and unobtrusive researcher while impacting thousands of individuals from diverse backgrounds and ethnic origins. Microcomputers can facilitate programmatic research, systematic replication and extension, measurement, experimental control, treatment administration and economy in natural field settings, consequently expanding the research options available to behavioral scientists.
Free-riding and cost-bearing in discrimination

Abstract We study how the temporal positions in which a disadvantaged person (e.g., an unattractive-looking customer) and an advantaged person (e.g., an attractive-looking customer) encounter an actor (e.g., a vendor) influence the treatment they get from the actor (e.g., the prices the vendor offers). Three experiments, including a field experiment and a pre-registered experiment, incorporate three types of personal attributes (physical appearance, nationality, and gender) and find both a free-riding effect for the disadvantaged person and a cost-bearing effect for the advantaged person. Specifically, the disadvantaged person receives better treatment by following the advantaged person, and the advantaged person receives worse treatment by following the disadvantaged person. These effects occur only if the attribute that differentiates the disadvantaged and advantaged persons is perceived as unjustifiable, and they disappear if the attribute is perceived as justifiable, suggesting that these effects are due not to anchoring, but to the actor’s need for justifiability. This research highlights the importance of choice architecture in discrimination and its prevention.
Did Unconventional Interventions Unfreeze the Credit Market

This paper investigates whether and how unconventional interventions in 2008–2010 unfroze the credit market. We construct a dataset of 198 interventions for 16 countries during 2008–2010 and examine heterogeneous responses in stock prices to the interventions across 7,873 nonfinancial firms in those countries. Stock prices increase when the interventions are announced, particularly for firms with greater intrinsic need for external capital. This pattern is corroborated by subsequent expansions in firm investment, R&D expenditure, and employment. Among various forms of interventions, recapitalization of banks appears particularly effective in channeling the intervention effects from financial to nonfinancial sectors.
Marten use of Subnivean Access Points in Yellowstone

American marten (Martes americana) use primarily old growth coniferous habitat (Bateman 1986, Raine 1983, Soutiere 1979, Steventon and Major 1982). However, their use of habitat may vary by season (Steventon and Major 1982, Koehler and Hornocker 1977, Wynne and Sherburne 1984). In summer, marten use of non-forested areas to forage for fruits and berries has been documented (Soutiere 1979, Steventon and Major 1982). While there is some seasonal variation in habitat use, all authors agree that old growth is the core habitat required by marten. During winter, marten tend to remain in mature coniferous forests and will seldom cross open areas greater than 100m wide (Steventon and Major 1982, Soutiere 1979). Winter appears to be the most critical period for marten survival (Zielinski et al. 1983, Buskirk 1984). In winter, marten seem to require subnivean access for three major reasons: food, escape cover, and homeothermy. The use of subnivean access points has been well documented (Pullianen 1981, Buskirk 1984, Buskirk et al. 1989), but the mechanisms that determine the use of some access points and not others are not well understood. Certainly there is a relationship between the use of access points and coarse woody debris (CWD). Buskirk et al. (1989) found that 49% of marten resting sites and 63% of resting episodes were associated with CWD. CWD provides structure that breaks the snow surface, providing access to the subnivean zone where marten may escape low ambient temperatures, find prey or escape from predators. Buskirk (1989) has suggested that marten use subnivean access points to reach CWD that provides insulation from the cold. Marten in Wyoming (Buskirk et al. 1989) were found to use resting (access) sites associated with CWD when ambient temperatures were coldest; therefore, use of access points can decrease the metabolic demand for maintenance of body temperature. Studies of marten activity patterns, however, have shown that marten are most active at night during the winter (Zielinski 1981, Zeilinski et al. 1983, Lensink et al. 1955) when temperatures are coldest. This strategy is not energetically beneficial from a thermoregulatory standpoint and implies that other mechanisms may contribute to access point use. Microtines are the major food item in marten diets. Additionally, marten tend to hunt on a daily basis and their activity patterns in winter tend to be nocturnal. Zielinski et al. (1983) showed a correlation between marten activity and the activity of their principle prey in California. These aspects of their natural history suggest a relationship between the use of subnivean access points and prey densities. The primary goal of this study is to determine if this relationship occurs.
Vision loss, gaze palsy, and nystagmus in a patient with leukemia.

Abstract A 22-year old male with a history of B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia with recent bone marrow transplantation and on immunosuppressive therapy presented with painless, subacute vision loss of two weeks duration. He exhibited a horizontal gaze palsy, nystagmus, and mildly swollen and hyperemic optic discs with peripapillary flame hemorrhage on retinal exam. He had bilateral cecocentral scotomas on visual field exam, and MRI of his brain/orbits demonstrated hyperintensities in the hypothalamus, periaqueductal gray, and dorsal rostral medullary regions. After continued progression of symptoms despite discontinuation of the patient’s tacrolimus, an empiric trial of IV thiamine treatment was started before the patient’s lab vitamin levels were available, given strong clinical suspicion for a nutritional etiology. The patient’s clinical presentation improved dramatically, and he achieved a final visual acuity of 20/20, full visual fields bilaterally, and resolution of nystagmus. A final diagnosis of Wernicke’s encephalopathy was supported by his clinical course, imaging findings, and further confirmation with blood thiamine levels. This case presents unique ocular manifestations of Wernicke’s encephalopathy and highlights the importance of early diagnosis in this potentially reversible condition.
On Robust Adaptive PD Control of Robot Manipulators

In this study, an adaptive proportional-derivative (PD) control scheme is proposed for trajectory tracking of multi-degree-of-freedom robot manipulators in the presence of model uncertainties and external disturbances whose upper bounds are unknown but bounded. The developed controller takes the advantages of linear control in the sense of simplicity and easy design, but simultaneously possesses high robustness against model uncertainties and disturbances while avoiding the necessity of precise knowledge of the system dynamics. Due to the linear feature of the proposed method, both the transient and steady-state responses are easily controlled to meet desired specifications. Also, an adaptive law for control gains using only position and velocity measurements is introduced so that parameter uncertainties and disturbances are successfully compensated, where the prior knowledge about their upper bounds is not required. Stability analysis is conducted using the Lyapunov’s direct method and brief guidelines on how to select control parameters are also provided. Simulation results corroborate that the adaptive PD control law proposed in this paper can achieve a fast convergence rate, small tracking errors, low control effort, and small computational cost and its performance is compared with that of an existing nonlinear sliding mode control method.