cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Hierarchical flow control: a framework for scheduling and planning discrete events in manufacturing systems

The synthesis of operating policies for manufacturing systems is discussed. These are feedback laws that respond to potentially disruptive events. Laws are developed that are based on realistic dynamic programming models that account for the discrete nature of manufacturing and are computationally tractable. These scheduling and planning policies have a hierarchical structure which is systematically based on the production process. The levels of the hierarchy correspond to classes of events that occur with distinct frequencies. At each level, feedback laws select times for the controllable events whose frequency class is treated at that level and frequency targets for much higher-frequency controllable events. >
Use of Individual Feed Records in a Selection Program for Egg Production Efficiency.I. Heritability of the Residual Component of Feed Efficiency

Abstract The data consists of individual records on feed consumption, body weight, and egg mass from 4909 pedigreed White Leghorns from two separate populations, Q and R. The residual component is defined as the amount of feed consumption remaining after statistical adjustment for body weight and egg mass. The heritability of the residual, as estimated from the sire component of variance, was .29 ± .07 in Q and .15 ± .06 in R. The moderately high heritability of the residual component, as estimated, suggests that individual feed consumption records will enhance selection for efficiency of egg production.
Women's Rights, the European Court, and Supranational Constitutionalism

This analysis examines supranational constitutionalism in the European Union. In particular, the study focuses on the role of the European Court of Justice in the creation of women’s rights. I examine the interaction between the Court and member state governments in legal integration, and also the integral role that women’s advocates – both individual activists and groups – have played in the development of EU social provisions. The findings suggest that this litigation dynamic can have the effect of fueling the integration process by creating new rights that may empower social actors and EU organizations, with the ultimate effect of diminishing member state government control over the scope and direction of EU law. This study focuses specifically on gender equality law, yet provides a general framework for examining the case law in subsequent legal domains, with the purpose of providing a more nuanced understanding of supranational governance and constitutionalism.
Feasibility of screening and intervention for alcohol problems among young adults in the ED

This study evaluates the feasibility of screening and brief intervention (SBI) for alcohol problems among young adults (18-39 years) in a rural, university ED. Research staff screened a convenience sample of patients waiting for medical treatment with the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), used motivational interviewing techniques to counsel screen-positive patients (AUDIT >/= 6) during the ED visit, and referred patients to off-site alcohol treatment as appropriate. Patients were interviewed again at 3 months. Eighty-seven percent of age-eligible drinkers (2,067 of 2,371) consented to participate. Forty-three percent (894 of 2,067) screened positive, of which 94% were counseled. Forty percent of those counseled set a goal to decrease or stop drinking and 4% were referred for further treatment. Median times for obtaining consent, screening, and intervention were 4, 4, and 14 minutes, respectively. Project staff reported that 3% of patients screened or counseled were uncooperative. Seventy percent of 519 patients who participated in follow-up interviews agreed the ED is a good place to help patients with alcohol problems. High rates of informed consent and acceptance of counseling confirmed this protocol's acceptability to patients and indicated patients were comfortable divulging alcohol-related risk behavior. The modest times required for the process enhanced acceptability to patients as well as ED staff. The high prevalence of alcohol problems and the broad acceptance of SBI in this sample provide evidence of the ED's promise as a venue for this clinical preventive service.
Conservation of gene order and content in the circular chromosomes of 'Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus' and other Rhizobiales.

‘Ca. Liberibacter asiaticus,’ an insect-vectored, obligate intracellular bacterium associated with citrus-greening disease, also called “HLB," is a member of the Rhizobiales along with nitrogen-fixing microsymbionts Sinorhizobium meliloti and Bradyrhizobium japonicum, plant pathogen Agrobacterium tumefaciens and facultative intracellular mammalian pathogen Bartonella henselae. Comparative analyses of their circular chromosomes identified 514 orthologous genes shared among all five species. Shared among all five species are 50 identical blocks of microsyntenous orthologous genes (MOGs), containing a total of 283 genes. While retaining highly conserved genomic blocks of microsynteny, divergent evolution, horizontal gene transfer and niche specialization have disrupted macrosynteny among the five circular chromosomes compared. Highly conserved microsyntenous gene clusters help define the Rhizobiales, an order previously defined by 16S RNA gene similarity and herein represented by the three families: Bartonellaceae, Bradyrhizobiaceae and Rhizobiaceae. Genes without orthologs in the other four species help define individual species. The circular chromosomes of each of the five Rhizobiales species examined had genes lacking orthologs in the other four species. For example, 63 proteins are encoded by genes of ‘Ca. Liberibacter asiaticus’ not shared with other members of the Rhizobiales. Of these 63 proteins, 17 have predicted functions related to DNA replication or RNA transcription, and some of these may have roles related to low genomic GC content. An additional 17 proteins have predicted functions relevant to cellular processes, particularly modifications of the cell surface. Seventeen unshared proteins have specific metabolic functions including a pathway to synthesize cholesterol encoded by a seven-gene operon. The remaining 12 proteins encoded by ‘Ca. Liberibacter asiaticus’ genes not shared with other Rhizobiales are of bacteriophage origin. ‘Ca. Liberibacter asiaticus’ shares 11 genes with only Sinorhizobium meliloti and 12 genes are shared with only Bartonella henselae.
The physiological implications of primary xylem organization in two ferns

Xylem structure and function are well described in woody plants, but the implications of xylem organization in less-derived plants such as ferns are poorly understood. Here, two ferns with contrasting phenology and xylem organization were selected to investigate how xylem dysfunction affects hydraulic conductivity and stomatal conductance (gs). The drought-deciduous pioneer species, Pteridium aquilinum, exhibits fronds composed of 25 to 37 highly integrated vascular bundles with many connections, high gs and moderate cavitation resistance (P50 = −2.23 MPa). By contrast, the evergreen Woodwardia fimbriata exhibits sectored fronds with 3 to 5 vascular bundles and infrequent connections, low gs and high resistance to cavitation (P50 = −5.21 MPa). Xylem-specific conductivity was significantly higher in P. aqulinium in part due to its wide, efficient conduits that supply its rapidly transpiring pinnae. These trade-offs imply that the contrasting xylem organization of these ferns mirrors their divergent life history strategies. Greater hydraulic connectivity and gs promote rapid seasonal growth, but come with the risk of increased vulnerability to cavitation in P. aquilinum, while the conservative xylem organization of W. fimbriata leads to slower growth but greater drought tolerance and frond longevity.
Induzierter Funktionswandel von Proteinen in Biologie und Medizin

Diese Ubersicht behandelt Proteine und Nucleinsauren, Bausteine von hereditaren Einheiten, als vielfach wandelbare Korper infolge von Reaktionen mit Fremdstoffen wie Toxinen, Proteinen, Arzneimitteln, Strahlen usw. Diese Umwandlungen werden als Ursachen von anormalem Zellstoffwechsel im Sinne von krankhaften Zustanden, Uberempfindlichkeit, Allergie, Sucht, Arzneimittelresistenz, pathologischem Wachstum, Mutationen, genetischen Blocks usw. angesehen. Strukturelle Veranderungen konnen durch Einwirkung artfremder, antigen-wirksamer, naturlicher wie kunstlicher Eiweiskorper auf die normale Globulin-Synthese unter Antikorper-Bildung erzeugt werden. Derartige Vorgange werden als Modell entsprechender Veranderungen von Gewebsproteinen und unizellularen Systemen diskutiert. Verschiedene Theorien werden vom chemischen und enzymatischen Gesichtspunkt aus betrachtet. Es wird der Schlus gezogen, das Antigene in Konjugation mit Globulin-bildenden Zellen als Biokatalysatoren wirksam sind. Weiter wird gezeigt, das gebildete Antikorper-Molekeln als spezifische Inhibitoren von biologischen Funktionen der verantwortlichen antigenen Proteinen reagieren. Da Eiweis-Substanzen, wenn sie als Antikorper-Bildner in ihren Mutterzellen wirksam wurden, die Synthese von spezifisch hemmenden Antikorpern stimulieren und damit den Zelltod verursachen wurden, wird die Antigeneigenschaft von Proteinen als artfremdes Verhalten betrachtet. Da weiterhin eine Antigeneigenschaft nur in einem artfremden multizellularen lebenden System manifest wird, kann sie nicht als eine native Charakteristik betrachtet werden, sondern als ein von ausen herruhrendes Verhalten sowie eine Auswirkung einer anderen genetisch determinierten Charakteristik eines Proteins. Antigen-Spezifitat sowie biokatalytische Spezifitat werden auf die gleichen Zentren zuruckgefuhrt. Nur auf dieser Grundlage konnen gleichwertige Spezifitaten, die Neutralisation der biologischen Wirksamkeiten von Proteinen, der Konkurrenzantagonismus zwischen spezifischen Substraten und Antikorpern sowie der Mechanismus des Immunschutzes gegenuber infektios wirksamen Stoffen erklart werden. Hochgereinigte und mehrfach umkristallisierte Proteinpraparationen bestehen, wie man heute weis, aus mikro-heterogenen Molekelpopulationen. Die Grunde fur dieses Verhalten sind nicht bekannt. Gleichfalls konnen bekanntlich mehrfach umkristallisierte Enzyme multi-katalytische Funktionen entwickeln. Die moglichen Ursachen fur diese Zusammenhange werden diskutiert. Es ist zu hoffen, das Physik, Chemie und Biologie die Ratsel der Protein-Molekel losen werden.
Urban School Principals and the ‘No Child Left Behind’ Act

This exploratory study investigated how six practicing school principals responded to the requirements of the No Child Left Behind law (United States Congress Public Law 107–110, 2002, January, No Child Left Behind Act, http://www.ed.gov/policy/elsec/leg/esea02/107-110.pdf ) in light of the multicultural leadership demands presented by an urban setting. It examines perspectives of principals on the legal aspects of No Child Left Behind (NCLB) and what they did to manage its requirements. Multicultural leadership literature provided a framework to understand the perspectives of school leaders. The findings suggest three principals were engaged in meaningful and practical work to both fulfill the requirements of NCLB and meet the needs of their students. Three principals were focused on the requirements of the law and did not see the connection between multicultural leadership and NCLB. The study’s recommendations include a multicultural leadership approach to current NCLB school reform.
Modeling and characterization of SIPOS passivated, high voltage, N- and P-channel lateral resurf type DMOSFETs

SIPOS passivated Lateral DMOSFET's are modeled with the two-dimensional device simulator PISCES and experimentally characterized. A new SIPOS model for PISCES simulation is proposed, and the on- and offcharacteristics of DMOSFET's are analyzed using the model. Simulated and measured characteristics of SIPOS passivated devices are compared with those of oxide passivated devices of the same dimension. Comparing the simulation results with the measured ones confirms the validity of the SIPOS model.
The Immoralities of the Patriarchs according to the Exegesis of the Late Middle Ages and of the Reformation

The Old Testament has always been something of an embarrassment to the Christian church. The book was Scripture and its heroes were to be taken as examples. Nevertheless there was much in their conduct which ran counter to the prevailing Christian ethics. A problem thus arose both in exegesis and in ethics. Were the patriarchs to be justified? Should they be imitated? Marcion evaded the difficulty by simply rejecting the Old Testament, pointing out the complete antithesis, for example, between the precept, “Let not the sun go down upon your wrath,” and the conduct of Joshua, who kept the sun up till his wrath went down. In the main the fathers resolved such difficulties by allegory, but even this key did not suffice. There was no denying that Moses really slew the Egyptian, that the Israelites robbed them, that Abraham lied, that Jacob was polygamous, and that Samson committed suicide, not to mention the deeds which made it appropriate to attribute to David the penitential psalms. Origen, the prince of allegorists, admitted that the incest of Lot and the polygamy of Abraham and Jacob were “mysteries not understood by us.”
Victim Blaming in Rape: Effects of Victim and Perpetrator Race, Type of Rape, and Participant Racism.

Stereotypes about Black sexuality fostered hypotheses that racial factors and racism influence rape victim blaming. Predominantly White and Asian college students (170 men, 162 women) completed the Modern Racism Scale and evaluated a rape vignette varying victim race, perpetrator race, and rape type. As predicted, racial factors determined victim blaming. Compared to intraracial rapes, interracial rapes were less uniformly judged as “definitely rape” and were judged as having more culpable and less credible victims, and less culpable perpetrators. For men, racism scores positively predicted victim blaming in all rapes. For women, racism scores moderated victim blaming in interracial acquaintance rapes. In our conclusions, we emphasize the durability of racial stereotypes about rape and their influence on discriminatory adjudication outcomes.
Form Determines Function: New Methods for Identifying the Neuroanatomical Loci of Circuit-Based Disturbances in Childhood Disorders

Since the time of Aristotle, western science has known that form determines function.1 In systems neuroscience, form is the geography of the brain, the locations of nodal centers within distributed neural systems for information processing. Specific nodes within specific neural systems process specific kinds of information in specific ways. The computational functions that those systems perform determine the behaviors that an organism exhibits. The cytoarchitectural characteristics of those nodes, including their cellular morphology, cellular density, their extent of dendritic and axonal arborization, the density and neurochemical specification of synapses, and the connections of cells within and between nodes, determine the macroscopic appearance of those nodes.2 If the geography of those nodes and their connections differ, the behaviors that the circuits support will differ as well. Form determines function.
Software techniques for image processing

The astronomical community has been involved in image processing for centuries. We have gone through a series of levels of sophostication in our image processing using the unaided eye, telescopes, photographic plates, image intensifiers, television type sensors and computers. All of these devices have been developed and used in order to obtain a “better” image. For each of us the word “better” has had many meanings. For example; higher spatial resolution, fainter limiting magnitude, higher signal to noise ratio, greater dynamic range, more uniform photometric response, greater spectral response, etc. It is stating the obvious to say that no single device and/or image processing system can satisfy all of these desires for a better image simultaneously.
Enterprise Risk Management for Transportation Agencies

Risk management is implicit in transportation business practices. Administrators, planners, and engineers coordinate many organizational and technical resources to manage transportation network performance. Transportation agencies manage some of the largest and highest-valued public assets and budgets in federal, state, and local governments. It is the agencies' corporate responsibility to set clear strategic goals and objectives to manage these assets so economic growth and livability of their regions improves and the public gets the best value. Risks can affect an agency's ability to meet its goals and objectives. As network and delivery managers, these agencies must identify risks, assess the possible impacts, develop plans to manage the risks, and monitor the effectiveness of their actions. This paper presents the results of (a) a comprehensive literature review, (b) a state-of-the-practice survey of 43 U.S. transportation agencies, and (c) seven case studies from leading transportation organizations ...
SHORTVEIN, A NEW COMPONENT OF THE DECAPENTAPLEGIC GENE COMPLEX IN DROSOPHILA MELANOGASTER

Our laboratory has been concerned with the structure and function of the decapentaplegic gene complex (DPP-C) in Drosophila melanogaster . To define the boundaries of the complex, we have studied the genetics of mutations allelic to a previously discovered mutation shortvein (shv ), known to reside near decapentaplegic. We found that shortvein resides distal to Hin-d and dpp within the same polytene chromosome doublet, 22F1-2. Lesions in shv can affect not only the formation of the wing veins but also can interfere with normal development of parts of the adult and/or be lethal. Like those of dpp mutants, the shv-associated adult abnormalities affect distal epidermal structures. Some shv lesions cause a larval lethal syndrome which is associated with an unusually long larval stage (ca. five to six times its normal duration). Lesions in shv exhibit an involved pattern of complementation with dpp mutations, indicating that both shv and dpp are parts of a single gene complex. A subset of the array of mutant phenotypes displayed by shv/dpp trans-heterozygotes appear to be dpp-specific phenotypes; we interpret these as reflecting an inactivation effect of certain shv alleles on dpp functions. The other abnormalities displayed by these trans-heterozygotes appear to be shv-specific defects; we view these as indicating an inactivation effect of certain dpp mutations on shv functions. Furthermore, embryonic lethal (EL) mutations within the DPP-C exhibit allelic interactions with all shv mutations. We conclude that the shortvein region represents a newly identified integrated portion of the DPP-C.
Time-Spectral Analysis Methods for Spent Fuel Assay Using Lead Slowing-Down Spectroscopy

Nondestructive techniques for measuring the mass of fissile isotopes in spent nuclear fuel is a considerable challenge in the safeguarding of nuclear fuel cycles. A nondestructive assay technology that could provide direct measurement of fissile mass, particularly for the plutonium (Pu) isotopes, and improve upon the uncertainty of today's confirmatory methods is needed. Lead slowing-down spectroscopy (LSDS) has been studied for the spent fuel application previously, but the nonlinear effects of assembly self shielding (of the interrogating neutron population) have led to discouraging assay accuracy for realistic pressurized water reactor fuels. In this paper, we describe the development of time-spectral analysis algorithms for LSDS intended to overcome these self-shielding effects. The algorithm incorporates the tabulated energy-dependent cross sections from key fissile and absorbing isotopes, but leaves their mass as free variables. Multi-parameter regression analysis is then used to directly calculate not only the mass of fissile isotopes in the fuel assembly (e.g., Pu-239, U-235, and Pu-241), but also the mass of key absorbing isotopes such as Pu-240 and U-238. Modeling-based assay results using this self-shielding relationship indicate that LSDS has the potential to directly measure fissile isotopes with less than 5% average relative error for pressurized water reactor assemblies with burnup as high as 60 GWd/MTU. Shortcomings in the initial self-shielding model and potential improvements to the formulation are described.
Impact of Catalyst Support Design Parameters on FTP Emissions

This study investigated the performance of various designs of ceramic monolithic catalyst supports for automotive emissions control. The conclusion is that higher volume and/or higher cell density monoliths will yield improved catalytic performance using equal or less total precious metal per converter
Impact of Dynamic Endoscopy and Bimanual-Binarial Dissection in Endoscopic Endonasal Surgery Training: A Laboratory Investigation.

Objective The lack of a standard technique may be a relevant issue in teaching endoscopic endonasal surgery (EES) to novice surgeons. The objective of this article is to compare different endoscope positioning and microsurgical dissection techniques in EES training. Methods A comparative trial was designed to evaluate three techniques: group A, one surgeon performing binarial two-hands dissection using an endoscope holder (rigid endoscopy); group B, two surgeons performing a combined binarial two- and three-handed dissection with one surgeon guiding the endoscope (dynamic endoscopy); and group C, two surgeons performing a binarial two-hands dissection with one surgeon dedicated to endoscope positioning and the other dedicated to a two-handed dissection. Trainees were randomly assigned to these groups and oriented to complete surgical tasks in a validated training model for EES. A global rating scale, and a specific-task checklist for EES were used to assess surgical skills. Results The mean scores of the global rating scale and the specific-task checklist were higher (p = 0.001 and 0.002, respectively) for group C, reflecting the positive impact of dynamic endoscopy and bimanual dissection on training performance. Conclusions We found that dynamic endoscopic and bimanual-binarial microdissection techniques had a significant positive impact on EES training.
Teaching psychopharmacology to psychology interns.

A group of psychology interns were given a brief course in psychopharmacology In follow-up questionnaires from 14 doctoral psychologists 6 months and 2.7 years after graduation respondents stated that the course increased knowledge and confidence in their collaboration with physicians.
Paranormal Beliefs, Interpersonal Trust, and Social Interest

The Paranormal Belief Scale, Interpersonal Trust Scale, and Social Interest Scale were administered to 60 college students. No significant correlations were obtained between interpersonal trust and paranormal beliefs. Social Interest, as hypothesized, showed a significant direct correlation with Traditional Religious Belief as well as significant inverse correlations with both Psi Belief and Spiritualism.
Populations of Mexican Bean Beetles in Relation to leaf Protein of Nodulating and Non-Nodulating Soybeans

The influence of leaf protein on infestation of foliage-feeding insects was studied in an experiment at Tifton, Georgia. Leaf protein levels were obtained by side-dressing nodulating (nod) and non-nodulating (non-nod) soybeans with various rates of nitrogen. Significant increases in the numbers of Mexican bean beetle, Epilachna varivestis Mulsant, occurred where nitrogen at certain rates was applied to nod and non-nod beans. Chemical analysis revealed significant increases in leaf protein only on non-nod beans which received increased nitrogen. Correlation of percentage leaf protein and Mexican bean beetle numbers was significantly linear on non-nod soybeans, but not on nod soybeans.
Nutritional knowledge and attitudes of registered nurses.

The nurse functions as an informal nutrition educator. Does her nutritional knowledge fit her for this role?
System theoretic models in economic modelling: Can the world be studied in the viewpoint of systems ??

In this paper the possible reasons why the attempt of applying general systems theory to solving practical problems is notably unsuccessful are analyzed. The following are thought to be the main reasons: (i) How can the primitive notation ''to be an element of'' in set theory be given natural and reasonable meanings in applications ? (ii) Sets: what kind of collection of natural matters is a set ? In the rest of this paper a variety of applications and real models of a generalized general systems theory are introduced, where the generalized general systems theory was thought by some experts as a theory in a right track for the development of general systems theory. The following applications and models are listed in this paper: (i) Applications in epistemology. (ii) Application in the morphology of polymers. (iii) A model of genetics. (iv) A model of the development of a cultural entity.
Noncollagenous Bone Matrix Proteins

Publisher Summary Collagen(s) is the major organic constituent of bone matrix. However, collagen most likely is not the direct nucleator of hydroxyapatite deposition. Physicochemical studies based on predictions of the surface topography of the hydroxyapatite unit cell predict that such a nucleator would have a β-pleated sheet structure, a feature that is not found in the predicted structure of the collagen molecule. In addition, collagen is not present in the extracellular environment in an unbound form. There are a large number of matrix proteins that have been found to bind to collagen, thereby regulating fibril formation, and it is probable that collagen serves as scaffolding on which nucleators are oriented. Consequently, the nucleators of hydroxyapatite deposition are most likely members of the noncollagenous components of the organic bone matrix. This chapter discusses the major structural proteins (proteoglycans, glycoproteins, and γ -glutamic acid-containing proteins) found in bone matrix. Glycoproteins such as alkaline phosphatase, osteonectin, RGD-containing proteins (osteoadherin, thrombospondin, fibronectin, vitronectin, osteopontin, and bone sialoprotein), fibrillin, and tetranectin are produced at different stages of osteoblastic maturation. They exhibit a broad array of functions ranging from control of cell proliferation, cell–matrix interactions, and mediation of hydroxyapatite deposition. The study concludes by stating that the ectopic expression of bone matrix proteins may also play a significant role in pathological states such as bone metastasis in certain forms of cancer and atherosclerosis.
Influence of Genetic Background on Genetically Engineered Mouse Phenotypes

The history of mouse genetics, which involves the study of strain-dependent phenotype variability, makes it clear that the genetic background onto which a gene-targeted allele is placed can cause considerable variation in genetically engineered mouse (GEM) phenotype. This variation can present itself as completely different phenotypes, as variations in penetrance of phenotype, or as variable expressivity of phenotype. In this chapter we provide examples from gene-targeting literature showing each of these types of phenotype variation. We discuss ways in which modifier genes can affect the phenotype of a mouse with a mutant gene, and we give examples of modifier locus identification. We also review approaches to minimize gene polymorphism and flanking gene differences between experimental animals, and between them and their controls. In addition, we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of performing the first analysis of a knockout mouse on a mixed genetic background. We conclude that a mixed background provides the quickest preview of possible strain-dependent phenotypes (1 , 2). Finally, we review recent approaches to improving genetic diversity by generating new inbred strains that encompass a broader range of alleles within the mouse species.
Effects of Learning Strategy Training on the Writing Performance of College Students with Asperger’s Syndrome

Individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are increasingly entering institutions of higher education. However, many are not prepared for the academic and social demands of postsecondary environments. Although studies have evaluated academic and social interventions for children and adolescents with ASD, little research exists on the college population. The current study utilized a multiple baseline across participants design to evaluate the effectiveness of a writing learning strategy on the writing performance of three college students with ASD. Results indicated that the quality of writing performance improved following strategy instruction. In addition, participants were able to generalize strategy use to content specific writing tasks.
ICA based non-coherent QAM receiver architecture

For emerging wireless data applications, carrier phase extraction and I/Q mismatch are challenging parts of the receiver design. This paper proposes receiver architecture for detection of QAM signals that does not require estimation of the received signal phase and can be used in both superheterodyne and direct conversion approaches. A Simplified Independent Component Analysis (SICA) signal processing technique is developed and used to separate the components in the I and Q branches of the receiver. It is demonstrated that the proposed receiver is robust with respect to amplitude and phase mismatch of the local oscillator. The performance of the SICA QAM receiver architecture is illustrated through computer-based simulations.
A study of a fine-pitched pixelated CdZnTe detector with a digital waveform acquisition system

Pixelated CdZnTe detectors were constructed with 19 × 19 pixels spaced by 500 μm pitch to study its feasibility in neutrino-less double beta decay search. Four selective pixels were connected to individual preamplifiers and relative timing response to gammas was investigated. Waveforms acquired by a single trigger from any arbitrary pixel can be sorted out for coincidence by taking the derivative of each waveform. The derivative method also allowed us to identify not only single or multi pixel events in each channel but also the nature of charge induction (direct hit pixel or response to neighboring pixels). This ability to identify each waveform type with an accurate time stamp gives us great flexibility to retain and reject freely preselected events and to successfully reconstruct pulse-height spectra. Two approaches, addition and subtraction methods, were investigated and both of them made it possible to refine untreated spectra and improved energy resolution was observed.
The 50/50 cc Total Artificial Heart Trial: Extending the Benefits of the Total Artificial Heart to Underserved Populations

While use of the total artificial heart (TAH) is growing, the use of the device is not uniform across the gender and age spectrum because the vast majority of implants are in adult males. SynCardia has recently developed a smaller 50 cc TAH that was designed to accommodate patients with a body surface area as low as 1.2 m2 (potentially even lower using virtual implantation). Herein, we describe the early use of the 50 cc TAH (10 implants in the US and 18 outside the US). Twenty-eight devices have been implanted worldwide. Nineteen (68%) patients were female, 4 (14%) were 21 years of age or younger, and 2 (7%) had a diagnosis of congenital heart disease (1 Fontan). The smallest patient, by body surface area, was 1.35 m2. Six patients (21%) have been placed on the Freedom Driver, all of whom have survived. Fourteen patients (50%) have had a positive outcome to date. The development of the 50 cc TAH has expanded the population of patients who may benefit from TAH support and thus may help improve outcomes for patients who have had limited biventricular support options to date.
Sociodemographic disparities in chemotherapy and hematopoietic cell transplantation utilization among adult acute lymphoblastic and acute myeloid leukemia patients.

Introduction Identifying sociodemographic disparities in chemotherapy and hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) utilization for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) may improve survival for underserved populations. In this study, we incorporate neighborhood socioeconomic status (nSES), marital status, and distance from transplant center with previously studied factors to provide a comprehensive analysis of sociodemographic factors influencing treatments for ALL and AML. Methods Using the California Cancer Registry, we performed a retrospective, population-based study of patients ≥15 years old with ALL (n = 3,221) or AML (n = 10,029) from 2003 through 2012. The effect of age, sex, race/ethnicity, marital status, nSES, and distance from nearest transplant center on receiving no treatment, chemotherapy alone, or chemotherapy then HCT was analyzed. Results No treatment, chemotherapy alone, or chemotherapy then HCT were received by 11%, 75%, and 14% of ALL patients and 36%, 53%, and 11% of AML patients, respectively. For ALL patients ≥60 years old, HCT utilization increased from 5% in 2005 to 9% in 2012 (p = 0.03). For AML patients ≥60 years old, chemotherapy utilization increased from 39% to 58% (p<0.001) and HCT utilization from 5% to 9% from 2005 to 2012 (p<0.001). Covariate-adjusted analysis revealed decreasing relative risk (RR) of chemotherapy with increasing age for both ALL and AML (trend p <0.001). Relative to non-Hispanic whites, lower HCT utilization occurred in Hispanic [ALL, RR = 0.80 (95% CI = 0.65–0.98); AML, RR = 0.86 (95% CI = 0.75–0.99)] and non-Hispanic black patients [ALL, RR = 0.40 (95% CI = 0.18–0.89); AML, RR = 0.60 (95% CI = 0.44–0.83)]. Compared to married patients, never married patients had a lower RR of receiving chemotherapy [ALL, RR = 0.96 (95% CI = 0.92–0.99); AML, RR = 0.94 (95% CI = 0.90–0.98)] or HCT [ALL, RR = 0.58 (95% CI = 0.47–0.71); AML, RR = 0.80 (95% CI = 0.70–0.90)]. Lower nSES quintiles predicted lower chemotherapy and HCT utilization for both ALL and AML (trend p <0.001). Conclusions Older age, lower nSES, and being unmarried predicted lower utilization of chemotherapy and HCT among ALL and AML patients whereas having Hispanic or black race/ethnicity predicted lower rates of HCT. Addressing these disparities may increase utilization of curative therapies in underserved acute leukemia populations.
The failure of defense planning in European Post-Communist Defense Institutions: ascertaining causation and determining solutions

ABSTRACTBy any objective measure, defense institutions in Central and Eastern Europe have all but universally been incapable of producing viable defense plans that are based on objective costing and operational planning data. This situation exists in spite the provision of considerable Western advice and assistance, let alone reporting to and receiving assessments by NATO’s International Staff under Partnership for Peace, as well as via the integrated defense planning and reporting systems. An explanation for this systematic failure across European post-Communist defense institutions can be found in the continued slow development of an over-arching policy framework which directs and approves all activities of the armed forces, as well as the de-centralization of financial decision-making down to capability providers. The essay ends with an examination of the adverse effects of the early introduction of planning programming, budgeting system (PPBS), have had on the development of effective policy and plann...
What Leads to Player's Enjoyment and Achievement in a Mobile Learning Game?

This study investigated students’ perceptions of competence and enjoyment of a mobile game within the context of mobile game-based learning. The proposed model showed that perceived competence and ...
Ca, Mg, And Micronutrient Nutrition and Growth of Pelargonium In Pine Bark Amended With Composted Hardwood Bark

Abstract Growth and foliar nutrient analysis of Pelargonium X hortorum L. H. Bailey cv. Aurora grown in pine bark (PB) amended with 25%,50%, or 75% composted hardwood bark (HB) were studied with the bark components mixed either before or after composting. For each ratio of PB to HB, fresh PB was mixed with fresh HB before composting, or composted PB or noncomposted PB were mixed with composted HB. Media physical properties and plant growth and foliar nutrient levels were the same when media were mixed before or after composting. Plants had more shoot growth in media containing 25% or 50% HB. Media containing 25% or 50% HB had a stable pH during the study, while pH increased in other media. Plants grown in media containing 75% or more composted HB showed symptoms of Mn toxicity during the first month of growth. Except for Cu, plants grown in media containing composted HB had normal or above normal foliar tissue Ca, Mg, and micronutrient levels.
Applications of Propositional Calculus

We look at two applications of propositional calculus. The first is its use in solving various “word problems”, such as the superman story on page 37. Formalizing such problems in propositional calculus allows us to solve them more easily than we could using English alone. As a second application, we show how propositional calculus can be used in the design of combinational digital circuits.
Telephone scatologia. Comorbidity with other paraphilias and paraphilia-related disorders.

The term scatologia is derived from the Greek word, skato, for dung and logos for speech (Gayford, 1997). Thus, telephone scatologia, also referred to as telephone scatophilia and telephonicophilia, is a paraphilia (PA) characterized by a pattern of sexual arousal associated with exposing an unsuspecting victim to sexual and obscene material over the phone (Milner & Dopke, 1997; Schewe, 1997). Telephone scatologia remains classified as a PA not otherwise specified (NOS) in the DSM-IV, because there has been insufficient description of the disorder in the literature to merit a separate category (American Psychiatric Association, 1994). Although specific PAs are distinguished by a characteristic paraphilic focus, all PAs feature recurrent, socially deviant, highly arousing sexual fantasies, urges, and activities that have a duration of at least 6 months and cause clinically significant distress or impairment (American Psychiatric Association, 1994). These latter diagnostic criteria would distinguish true telephone scatologists (TS) from telephone callers who just make a few obscene calls as a prank. Obscene telephone calling is a common behavior with more than 22,000 obscene phone call complaints filed in the Washington, DC area alone in 1989. This is particularly impressive considering that only 7–20% of sexually provocative calls are actually reported to the telephone company (Herold, Mantle, & Zemitis, 1979; Smith & Morra, 1994). Surveys
STUDIES OF FIRST WALL/BLANKET/SHTELD SYSTEMS FOR FUSION REACTORS

Two programs are underway at Argonne National Laboratory to develop experimental information on engineering issues of first wall and blanket systems for fusion reactors. These include a broadly based First Wall/Blanket/Shield Engineering Technology Program and the TRIO Blanket Processing Program which is addressing tritium recovery from solid tritium breeder materials.
Evolutionary adaptations that enable enzymes to tolerate oxidative stress

Biochemical mechanisms emerged and were integrated into the metabolic plan of cellular life long before molecular oxygen accumulated in the biosphere. When oxygen levels finaly rose, they threatened specific types of enzymes: those that use organic radicals as catalysts, and those that depend upon iron centers. Nature has found ways to ensure that such enzymes are still used by contemporary organisms. In some cases they are restricted to microbes that reside in anoxic habitats, but in others they manage to function inside aerobic cells. In the latter case, it is frequently true that the ancestral enzyme has been modified to fend off poisoning. In this review we survey a range of protein adaptations that permit radical-based and low-potential iron chemistry to succeed in oxic environments. In many cases, accessory domains shield the vulnerable radical or metal center from oxygen. In others, the structures of iron cofactors evolved to less oxidizable forms, or alternative metals replaced iron altogether. The overarching view is that some classes of biochemical mechanism are intrinsically incompatible with the presence of oxygen. The structural modification of target enzymes is an under-recognized response to this problem.
Anticoagulation risk assessment for patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation and venous thromboembolism: A clinical review

Non-valvular atrial fibrillation and venous thromboembolism anticoagulation risk assessment tools have been increasingly utilized to guide implementation and duration of anticoagulant therapy. Anticoagulation significantly reduces stroke and recurrent venous thromboembolism risk, but comes at the cost of increased risk of major and clinically relevant non-major bleeding. The decision for anticoagulation in high-risk patients is complicated by the fact that many risk factors associated with increased thromboembolic risk are simultaneously associated with increased bleeding risk. Traditional risk assessment tools rely heavily on age, sex, and presence of cardiovascular comorbidities, with newer tools additionally taking into account changes in risk factors over time and novel biomarkers to facilitate more personalized risk assessment. These tools may help counsel and inform patients about the risks and benefits of starting or continuing anticoagulant therapy and can identify patients who may benefit from more careful management. Although the ability to predict anticoagulant-associated hemorrhagic risk is modest, ischemic and bleeding risk scores have been shown to add significant value to therapeutic management decisions. Ultimately, further work is needed to optimally implement accurate and actionable risk stratification into clinical practice.
Introducing Bayesian Analysis With m&m's®: An Active-Learning Exercise for Undergraduates

We present an active-learning strategy for undergraduates that applies Bayesian analysis to candy-covered chocolate m&m’s®. The exercise is best suited for small class sizes and tutorial settings, ...
Weed species differentiation using spectral reflectance land image classification

Advancements in efficient unmanned aerial platforms and affordable sensors has led to renewed interest in remote sensing by agricultural producers and land managers for use as an efficient and convenient method of evaluating crop status and pest issues in their fields. For remote sensing to be employed as a viable and widespread tool for weed management, the accurate detection of distinct weed species must be possible through the use of analytical procedures on the resultant imagery. Additionally, the remote sensing platform and subsequent analysis must be capable of identifying these species across a wide range of heights. In 2017, a field study was performed to identify any weed height thresholds on the accurate detection and subsequent classification of three common broadleaf weed species in the southeastern United States: Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri), common ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia) and sicklepod Senna obtusifolia) as well as the classification accuracy of image classifications performed on the species scale. Pots of the three species at heights of 5, 10, 15, and 30 cm were randomly arranged in a grid and 5-band multispectral imagery was collected at 15 m. Image analysis was used to identify the spectral reflectance behavior of the weed species and height combinations and to evaluate the accuracy of species based supervised classifications involving the three species. Supervised classification was able to discriminate between the three weed species with between 24-100% accuracy depending on height and species. Palmer amaranth classification accuracy was consistently 100%. Increased height of sicklepod and common ragweed plants did not reliably confer improved accuracy but the species were correctly identified with at least 24% and 60% accuracy, respectively.
Lifelong Exposure to Dioxin-Like PCBs Alters Paternal Offspring Care Behavior and Reduces Male Fish Reproductive Success

Offspring survival, cohort performance, and ultimately population dynamics are strongly influenced by maternal characteristics (e.g., fecundity), whereas paternal contribution is often considered limited to genetic-driven fitness of males through sexual selection. However, male contribution to reproductive success can be particularly influential in species exhibiting paternal offspring care. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are widespread, persistent contaminants that can disrupt maternal reproductive processes and negatively affect offspring. In contrast, how PCBs affect paternal reproductive success is largely unknown, but could ultimately affect population dynamics. We examined the effects of lifelong PCB exposure on the reproductive processes of male fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas), a species exhibiting sole paternal offspring care, by examining endocrine-associated gene expression, testes histology, secondary sexual characteristics, courtship ability, offspring care, and offspring survival. PCBs minimized male secondary sexual characteristics, but did not affect gonadal end points or inhibit ability to court females. Fathers exposed to high concentrations of dioxin-like PCBs had changes in gene expression, reduced offspring care behavior, and higher embryo mortality, possibly due to fathers spending less time within nests and less frequently tending to embryos. Through complex interactions among gene expression, physical characteristics, and behavior, PCBs inhibit paternal reproductive success and have the potential to suppress population size.
Measuring Internal Forces in Single-Stranded DNA

We discuss canonical models of the elastic behaviour of ssDNA that are widely applied in both experiments and simulations and caution that key details omitted by these models have led to inaccurate published estimations of force. We present an alternative method for gauging forces in DNA systems using the oxDNA coarse-grained model and apply it to a recently-published DNA origami force clamp.
Second sight record of Indigo Bunting ( Passerina cyanea ) on Dominica

Abstract: One male Indigo Bunting (Passerina cyanea) was observed on Dominica on 13 March 2002. This sighting constitutes a second record for Dominica. Keywords: Dominica, Indigo Bunting, Lesser Antilles, Passerina cyanea, status Resumen: Segundo registro visual del Colorin Azul (Passerina cyanea) en Dominica- Un Colorin Azul (Passerina cyanea) macho fue observado el 13 de marzo de 2002 en Dominica. Este avistamiento es el segundo registro para Dominica. Palabras clave: Antillas Menores, Colorin Azul, Dominica, estado, Passerina cyanea