cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of Immediate or Delayed Estradiol on Behavior in Old Menopausal Macaques on Obesogenic Diet.

Macaques have served as effective models of human disease, including pathological processes associated with obesity and the metabolic syndrome. This study approached several questions: (1) does a western-style diet (WSD) contribute to sedentary behavior or is sedentary behavior a consequence of obesity and (2) does estradiol (E) hormone therapy offset WSD or ameliorate sedentary behavior? We further questioned whether the timing of E administration (immediately following hysterectomy, ImE; or after a 2-year delay, DE) would impact behavior. Focal observations were taken on the animals in social housing over a period of 2.5 years before and after initiation of the WSD and hysterectomy. In addition, anxiety was assessed through the Human Intruder and Novel Object Tests. All animals gained weight, but ImE delayed the time to maximum weight achieved at 18 months. Over the course of the study, ImE-treated monkeys spent more time “alone” and less time in “close social” contact than placebo-controls. The DE-treated monkeys were not different from placebo-controls in these 2 outcomes. The placebo-control group exhibited more “self-groom” behavior, an indicator of anxiety, than did the ImE-treated group, and DE-treated animals approached levels observed in the ImE-treated animals. All animals exhibited an increase in “consume” behavior over time with no statistical difference between the groups. By the end of the protocol, the placebo-control group exhibited less activity compared to ImE + DE-treated animals combined. Animals also showed increased anxiety after starting on the WSD in the Human Intruder Test and the Novel Object Test. In summary, the data indicated that WSD per se promoted increased consummatory behavior, sedentary behavior, and anxiety-type behaviors, whereas ImE promoted activity. Thus, WSD may precipitate the behaviors observed in humans who then become obese, sedentary, anxious, and socially isolated. ImE replacement ameliorates some of these behaviors, but not all.
Distributed Osmotic Computing Approach to Implementation of Explainable Predictive Deep Learning at Industrial IoT Network Edges with Real-Time Adaptive Wavelet Graphs

Challenges associated with developing analytics solutions at the edge of large scale Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) networks close to where data is being generated in most cases involves developing analytics solutions from ground up. However, this approach increases IoT development costs and system complexities, delay time to market, and ultimately lowers competitive advantages associated with delivering next-generation IoT designs. To overcome these challenges, existing, widely available, hardware can be utilized to successfully participate in distributed edge computing for IIoT systems. In this paper, an osmotic computing approach is used to illustrate how distributed osmotic computing and existing low-cost hardware may be utilized to solve complex, compute-intensive Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) deep learning problem from the edge, through the fog, to the network cloud layer of IIoT systems. At the edge layer, the C28x digital signal processor (DSP), an existing low-cost, embedded, real-time DSP that has very wide deployment and integration in several IoT industries is used as a case study for constructing real-time graph-based Coiflet wavelets that could be used for several analytic applications including deep learning pre-processing applications at the edge and fog layers of IIoT networks. Our implementation is the first known application of the fixed-point C28x DSP to construct Coiflet wavelets. Coiflet Wavelets are constructed in the form of an osmotic microservice, using embedded low-level machine language to program the C28x at the network edge. With the graph-based approach, it is shown that an entire Coiflet wavelet distribution could be generated from only one wavelet stored in the C28x based edge device, and this could lead to significant savings in memory at the edge of IoT networks. Pearson correlation coefficient is used to select an edge generated Coiflet wavelet and the selected wavelet is used at the fog layer for pre-processing and denoising IIoT data to improve data quality for fog layer based deep learning application. Parameters for implementing deep learning at the fog layer using LSTM networks have been determined in the cloud. For XAI, communication network noise is shown to have significant impact on results of predictive deep learning at IIoT network fog layer.
Isolation of Beer-Spoiling Bacteria from Texas Craft Breweries

For craft brewers establishing their brands in a competitive marketplace, spoilage incidents due to microbial contamination can result in financial loss and damage to reputation. This study tested ...
Preaching to Episodic Ears: Practicing a Dramaturgical Homiletic

This article is a critical attempt to develop a homiletic methodology for preaching to the episodic self of the 21st century. The British philosopher Galen Strawson contends that postmodern people today do not regard themselves as living out their lives in a diachronic or narrative sense, but rather in an episodic-existential sense. This episodic-existential way of perceiving one’s life has recently posed a significant challenge to the current preaching practice that is mostly composed and delivered from the pulpit through a narrative. This article provides a considerate response to that episodic-existential challenge. Specifically, the article proposes a dramaturgical narrative form of preaching, in close collaboration with Paul Tillich’s existential theology, as a creative alternative to the conventional narrative way(s) of preaching.
Evaluation of μFSBR joint performance by process-physics based quality criteria and online monitoring algorithm

Abstract Process physics-based quality criteria and online monitoring algorithm were developed in this research by considering in-situ force and torque signals which were further linked to the joint structure and strength behavior. Thin joints consisting of one Cu layer and three Al layers were manufactured by micro friction stir blind riveting (μFSBR) process, where a micro rivet rotating at high speed traveled through the thickness of stacked layers to form a point joint by frictional heat and mechanical interlocking. In this research, μFSBR joints were manufactured with different levels of process parameters (spindle speed, feed rate and stacking sequence of Cu layer), while real-time data of penetration force and torque was collected. The joint quality and strength behavior were evaluated through load-displacement curves, in which two joint integrity scenarios, "no initial load drop" and "initial load drop" were observed. The defined scenarios were distinguished quantitatively through proposed process-physics based quality indices, namely, force-torque synchronization parameter and stirring time ratio derived from the real-time data. It was demonstrated that the defined quality indices successfully diagnosed the joint integrity. Furthermore, an online monitoring algorithm based on the pattern recognition protocol of force signals was formulated, in which a “pseudo sinusoidal” pattern was typified for "initial load drop" scenarios contrary to the sinusoidal pattern of “no initial load drop” cases. The developed algorithm was validated through a cross-sectional analysis where defects were observed at the occurrence of a "pseudo sinusoidal" pattern. In addition, the contact conditions were dominant with three stages, i.e. sliding, stick-slip and sticking, which were demarcated by comparing the normalized force and torque curves.
Predicting 6-Month Mortality for Older Adults Hospitalized With Acute Myocardial Infarction: A Cohort Study.

Older adults have increased risk for death after acute myocardial infarction (AMI). This article describes the development and initial validation of a risk prediction model that incorporates inform...
Distinguishing Different Kinds of Property in Patents and Copyrights

Academic debates over intellectual property as “property” seem to assume only one kind of property. Based on original historical research, this Article shows that different kinds of property have accreted over time in at least patents and copyrights. A fundamental right to keep ideas, expressions, and inventions private established a natural law property-type right from Greco-Roman times. Statutory regimes akin to regulatory property designed to encourage creators and inventors to make their works available to the public emerged during the medieval and Renaissance periods. Copies embodying copyrighted expression or patented invention were considered part of those exclusive rights during much of the Enlightenment before being deemed to have their own individual chattel property title. And finally, contracts conveying copyright or patent rights have their own property attributes. This Article argues that understanding the different kinds of natural and regulatory property in intellectual property will help IP skeptics and proponents bridge the acrimonious gap between them.
Timing of CardioMEMS PA Sensor Implantation Is Crucial In Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease

Introduction Heart failure (HF) affects > 6 million adults in the United States and is a leading cause of hospitalizations and mortality worldwide. The CardioMEMS™ HF System, an implantable wireless pulmonary artery sensor (PAS) has previously been shown to significantly reduce HF hospital admissions and improve quality of life. As a significant percentage of HF patients have concurrent kidney disease, this study sought to determine the effect of renal function on hospital admissions in a CardioMEMS patient cohort in a real world setting. Methods Hemodynamic data for patients undergoing PAS implantation was collected from 2015 to 2018. Patients transmitting 50% of the time within the specified time period were included. To assess for diuretic success the area under the curve (AUC) was calculated for PA diastolic pressures from 1 to 7 months post-implant. HF hospitalizations were reviewed for up to 7 months post-implant, and then compared to various pre-implant variables. Results A total of 74 patients were included, with 12 (16%) requiring hospitalization. A lower GFR was predictive for hospitalization (p 0.1). Lower GFR was not predictive of AUC (p > 0.13) and ejection fraction was neither predictive of hospital admissions nor AUC (p’s > 0.72). Among all other variables analyzed in a multivariate model, diabetes was predictive of hospitalization (p Conclusion/Discussion Non-hospitalized patients had lower AUCs in comparison to hospitalized patients. While not statistically significant, the trend supports that the CardioMEMs PAS has utility in preventing HF hospitalizations. Worsening GFR was found to be a significant predictor of future hospitalizations within the first 7 months of CardioMEMS PAS implantation. Patients with lower GFRs were more likely to get admitted despite similar ejection fraction and AUCs. These findings can perhaps be explained by an inability for CKD subjects to compensate for rapid shifts in volume. Such acuity can limit the time period during which appropriate diuretic adjustments must be made before decompensation occurs. Diabetes is a known risk factor for renal dysfunction, and may be contributing to hospitalizations via higher risk for nephropathy.
Is Overload an Issue in Young Basketball Players

Too much load or a sudden increase in load can put any athlete at risk for an overuse injury. Young athletes are no different in this regard but may be at particular risk for injuries that are unique to their age. We know that athletes are specializing at younger and younger ages. There is some evidence that early specialization can lead to overuse injury in young athletes. We will explore the evidence regarding overload and injury specific to young basketball athletes.
Characterization of Nonmotor Symptoms in the MitoPark Mouse Model of Parkinson’s Disease

Mitochondrial dysfunction has been implicated as a key player in the pathogenesis of Parkinson9s disease (PD). The MitoPark mouse, a transgenic mitochondrial impairment model developed by specific inactivation of TFAM in dopaminergic neurons, spontaneously exhibits progressive motor deficits and neurodegeneration, recapitulating several features of PD. Since non-motor symptoms are now recognized as important features of the prodromal stage of PD, we monitored the clinically relevant motor and nonmotor symptoms from ages 8-24 wks in MitoPark mice and their littermate controls. As expected, motor deficits in MitoPark mice began around 12-14 wks and became severe by 16-24 wks. Interestingly, male MitoPark mice showed spatial memory deficits before female mice, beginning at 8 wks and becoming most severe at 16 wks, as determined by Morris water maze. When compared to age-matched control mice, MitoPark mice exhibited olfactory deficits in novel and social scent tests as early as 10-12 wks. MitoPark mice between 16-24 wks spent more time immobile in forced swim and tail suspension tests, and made fewer entries into open arms of the elevated plus maze, indicating a depressive and anxiety-like phenotype, respectively. Importantly, depressive behavior as determined by immobility in forced swim test was reversible by antidepressant treatment with desipramine. Collectively, our results indicate that MitoPark mice progressively exhibit deficits in cognitive learning and memory, olfactory discrimination, and anxiety- and depression-like behaviors. Thus, MitoPark mice can serve as an invaluable model for studying motor and non-motor symptoms in addition to studying pathology in PD.
A Comparison of Open Carpal Tunnel Release Outcomes Between Procedure Room and Operating Room Settings.

Purpose Carpal tunnel release (CTR) surgical costs are minimized when performed in the procedure room (PR) setting, compared with the operating room. However, it remains unclear whether outcomes differ between surgical settings. Our purpose was to compare outcomes at 1 year or greater follow-up after open CTR between patients treated in PR versus operating room settings using the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ). Methods A change in clinical care protocols at our institution occurred in 2014. Before this, all CTRs were performed in the operating room; thereafter, these were transitioned to the PR. Adult patients who underwent isolated unilateral or bilateral open CTR in either surgical setting were considered for inclusion, in which procedures were conducted between January 2014 and October 2018 for the PR group and January 2009 and March 2014 for the operating room group. The Functional Status Scale (FSS) and the Symptom Severity Scale (SSS) components of the BCTQ were collected for all eligible patients at a minimum of 1 year after surgery. We used univariate and multivariable linear regression to determine whether postoperative BCTQ scores were equivalent between PR and operating room groups within a threshold of one-fourth of the lowest estimates of the minimal clinically important difference. Results No differences in demographics, comorbidities, or insurance type were observed between the 104 PR and 112 operating room patients. Survey response rate was 25% and 25% for the PR and operating room patients, respectively. At a mean follow-up of 3 ± 1 years, FSS and SSS scores were equivalent between PR and operating room groups on bivariate analysis. The multivariable equivalence test also demonstrated equivalent FSS and SSS scores between PR and operating room groups within a one-fourth minimal clinically important difference threshold while controlling for age, sex, presence of diabetes or thyroid disease, unilateral versus bilateral CTR, and surgeon. Conclusions Clinical outcomes did not differ between PR and operating room settings after open CTR. Type of study/level of evidence Therapeutic III.
Knowledge and perceptions of BRCA1/2 genetic testing and needs of diverse women with a personal or family history of breast cancer in South Florida

The vast majority of (BRCA1/2) genetic testing has been conducted in White women, in particular Ashkenazi Jewish women, with limited information available for Black and Hispanic women. Understanding perspectives of those who are underserved is critical to developing interventions to support inclusive approaches to genetic testing. This qualitative study explored knowledge and perceptions of BRCA1/2 genetic testing among diverse women in South Florida. We also explored participants' information needs. Convenience sampling was used to recruit a diverse group of 15 women with a personal or family history of breast cancer. We conducted semi-structured interviews and used grounded theory method to analyze the data. Five themes were identified: (1) lacking awareness and knowledge of BRCA1/2 genetic testing and results among Black women, (2) perceiving BRCA1/2 genetic testing as beneficial to themselves and a way to be proactive about cancer risk, (3) perceiving BRCA1/2 genetic testing as beneficial to family members, (4) interactions with healthcare providers and the healthcare system that shape genetic testing experiences, and (5) information needs for reducing cancer risk and promoting health. Our findings suggest that diverse underserved women perceived genetic testing as beneficial to themselves and family members. Women needed more information about the BRCA genes and genetic testing, prevention strategies, and the latest breast cancer research. Healthcare providers, particularly nurse practitioners, need to engage diverse high-risk women in discussions about their cancer risk, address unmet information needs, and, in particular, educate Black women about the benefits of pursuing genetic testing.
Efficacy and Safety of Glembatumumab Vedotin in Patients With Advanced or Metastatic Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Lung (PrECOG 0504).

Abstract Introduction Glycoprotein NMB is a transmembrane protein linked with poor prognosis and is expressed in most squamous lung cancer. Glembatumumab vedotin is an antibody-drug conjugate targeting glycoprotein NMB, administered intravenously every 3 weeks in this phase 1 study to determine the safety, tolerability, and maximum tolerated dose in patients who had progressed on any number of previous therapies. Results A total of 13 patients were enrolled; adverse events (of any grade) including dyspnea, neutropenia, respiratory failure, anemia, increased aspartate transaminase/alanine transaminase, diarrhea, and hypophosphatemia were seen in 15% of patients. Grade 5 events included two cases of respiratory failure, either completely or partially attributed to cancer progression. The only other grade 5 event was "disease progression." The most common adverse events (23%) were decreased appetite, fatigue, rash, and weight loss. The median overall and progression-free survivals were 5.7 months (90% confidence interval: 2.5–16.8) and 2.5 months (90% confidence interval: 1.6–5.8) respectively. Conclusions Glembatumumab vedotin exhibited no serious or unexpected toxicity in this heavily pretreated population, except those caused by disease progression. Modest anticancer activity was observed with a recommendation for a phase 2 dose of 1.9 mg/kg. This portion of the study was not undertaken owing to the company's decision to discontinue drug development.
Clinical Efficacy of Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate Versus Stromal Vascular Fraction Injection in Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Background:Knee injection using either bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) or stromal vascular fraction (SVF) from adipose tissue has been shown to result in symptomatic improvement in patients...
Efficacy of Video Prompting Using Mobile Technology to Teach Employment Tasks to Individuals with Intellectual Disability

Abstract Individuals with intellectual disability (ID) often experience a combination of both intellectual and adaptive functioning deficits which negatively impact their ability to obtain and maintain competitive employment. Fortunately, research has shown that assistive technology, and particularly video prompting, helps support employment for individuals with ID. This single case multiple probe study investigated the efficacy of a highly customizable task analysis smartphone application in assisting three young adults with ID complete common work-related office tasks. Findings indicate all three participants demonstrated very large effect size gains in completing three unique office-related tasks once provided with the Task Analysis app. Keywords: intellectual disability, assistive technology, employment, video prompting, mobile technology
ß-Alanine's impact on exercise and blood lactate values incurred from repetitive supramaximal activity

BACKGROUND: s-Alanine aids exercise performance by increasing intracellular carnosine content. Added carnosine should buffer more H + produced from exercise and evoke a higher blood lactate concentration ([BLa − ]) before a person succumbs to fatigue. OBJECTIVE: With a within-subjects design, we compared the effects of placebo (maltodextrin) and s-alanine administrations on [BLa − ] and average power (AP) values derived from repetitive bouts of lower body supramaximal activity. METHODS: Over separate 30-day periods, sedentary subjects (n = 10) ingested placebo, followed by s-alanine (3 g · day −1 ), capsules. After each period, subjects performed two four-set leg press workouts. [BLa − ] values were measured before, and zero-, five-, ten, 15- and 20-minutes post-exercise. [BLa − ] data underwent a 2 × 6 ANOVA, with repeated measures per independent variable. AP values were compared with a 2 × 4 ANCOVA, with repeated measures per independent variable. RESULTS: AP and [BLa − ] results each included a two-way interaction. s-alanine elicited higher set two and four AP values versus the corresponding placebo values. [BLa − ] values at zero-minutes post-exercise were significantly higher from s-alanine,
A Bar Against Competition: The Unconstitutionality of Admission Rules for Out-of-State Lawyers

The Article contends that the American Bar Association's Model Rule on Admission by Motion and similar state provisions currently under consideration place unconstitutional limitations on the interstate practice of law and should be revised. These rules often require lawyers, and especially junior lawyers, to re-take the full bar examination as a condition for admission in another state. Although many commentators have criticized these types of requirements as having the primary purpose and effect of protecting the financial interests of the in-state bar, the re-take rule has a more serious and unrecognized flaw. It often violates three constitutional provisions designed to prevent economic protectionism - the Article IV Privileges and Immunities Clause, the Fourteenth Amendment Privileges or Immunities Clause, and the dormant Commerce Clause. In short, this Article concludes that the Constitution requires reform in an area that traditionally has been too slow to evolve.
Colorimetric Method for Residual Annatto in Dry Whey

Abstract A colorimetric method is presented for determination of residual annatto in dry whey.
Issues in the Establishment of Asset Management Companies

This chapter discusses the role of asset management companies in facilitating bank restructuring and derives some lessons from recent experiences. It reviews various options and cross-country experiences in dealing with impaired assets during periods of financial crises. It argues that there are alternative strategies for managing and disposing of impaired assets, depending on factors such as the type of asset, size and distribution, the structure of the banking system, and available management capacity in the banks and in the public sector. The chapter concludes that there is no single optimal solution but rather a combination of solutions for each country that may vary over time and for each bank resolution. There are, however, common factors that contribute to the success of asset management companies (AMCs). These include supporting legal and regulatory environment, strong leadership, operational independence, appropriately structured incentives, and commercial orientation.
Signal Processing Algorithms

Signal processing algorithms , Signal processing algorithms , مرکز فناوری اطلاعات و اطلاع رسانی کشاورزی
Finding Pathogenic Nucleic Acid Sequences in Next Generation Sequencing Data.

Viruses and bacteria are established as one of the main causes of human diseases from hepatitis to cancer. Recently, the presence of such pathogens has been extensively studied using human whole genome and transcriptome sequencing data. However, detecting and studying pathogens via next generation sequencing data is a challenging task in terms of time and computational resources. In this protocol we give instructions for a simple and quick method to find pathogenic DNA or RNA and detect possible integration of the pathogen genome into the host genome. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Keywords: next generation sequencing; pathogens; viruses; bacteria; integration; detection
Morphometric Analyses of the Epididymis from Normal and Vasectomized Rats

To provide a structural basis for region-specific biochemical activities of rat epididymal cells and to assess the morphometric effects of vasectomy, tissue and cellular morphologic parameters for each of six histologically defined regions from the epididymis of long-term sham-operated and vasectomized rats were analyzed stereologically. In sham-operated rats, tubule diameter generally increased from region 1 to region 6 (163 microns to 338 microns) while tubular wall height decreased (35 microns to 17.5 microns) as did tubular wall volume density (0.48 to 0.12). For columnar epithelial cells, the absolute cell number/region ranged from 16.5 to 5.1 X 10(6) such that region 2 greater than region 1 greater than region 5 greater than region 4 greater than region 6 greater than region 3. Based on cell volume, the largest columnar epithelial cells were found in region 3 (2607 +/- 127 microns3). The epididymal tubule wall was made up of 91% columnar epithelial cells, 5% lymphocytes, and 4% basal cells. The relatively small tubular lumen, large wall volume, and large columnar epithelial cell number in the caput (regions 1 to 3) provide the structural basis for maximizing biochemical interactions between columnar epithelial cells and spermatozoa. In contrast, the distal cauda (region 6), with its large lumen and small tubular wall volume, is structurally optimized for the function of storage, which requires minimal columnar epithelial cell interaction with spermatozoa. In vasectomized rats, mean tissue volumes for most epididymal regions were significantly greater than in sham rats. The absolute number of lymphocytes in vasectomized rats significantly increased in several regions, thus implicating them in post-vasectomy events.
On the integrability of two-dimensional models with U(1)×SU(N) symmetry

In this paper we study the integrability of a family of models with U(1)×SU(N) symmetry. They admit fermionic and bosonic formulations related through bosonization and subsequent T-duality. The fermionic theory is just the CPN−1 sigma model coupled to a self-interacting massless fermion, while the bosonic one defines a one-parameter deformation of the O(2N) sigma model. For N=2 the latter model is equivalent to the integrable deformation of the O(4) sigma model discovered by Wiegmann. At higher values of N we find that integrability is more sporadic and requires a fine-tuning of the parameters of the theory. A special case of our study is the N=4 model, which was found to describe the AdS4×CP3 string theory in the Alday–Maldacena decoupling limit. In this case we propose a set of asymptotic Bethe ansatz equations for the energy spectrum.
Rewriting the Writing Mother in Marie Darrieussecq's Le Bébé

This article studies the innovative maternal portrait in Marie Darrieussecq's Le Bebe (2002), the autobiographical story of a mother's first nine months with her newborn son. It also examines how Darrieussecq engages in the riveting debate surrounding maternal creativity. On the one hand, Le Bebe is a "success story," one that attests to the victories of the feminist movement. On the other hand, the text examines the new challenges of today's writing mothers. Throughout the work, the "mother as scientist" analyzes her developing child while the nurturing "mom" pens her joys, discoveries, and difficulties. The article concludes that because the researcher is also the mother, and because this marriage of roles in relation to one’s own child is somewhat jarring, Darrieussecq achieves a striking and truly contemporary maternal portrait. This article is available in Studies in 20th & 21st Century Literature: http://newprairiepress.org/sttcl/vol32/iss1/5 Rewriting the Writing Mother in Marie Darrieussecq’s Le Bebe Claire Marrone Sacred Heart University
DNA-Based Programmed Assembly of Gold Nanoparticles on Lithographic Patterns with Extraordinary Specificity

We demonstrate the highly specific and programmed assembly of oligonucleotide-conjugated gold nanoparticles on lithographically defined microscale gold patterns. A key feature of our fabrication technique is the use of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) groups to form an inert coating on regions of the chip where no nanoparticle assembly is desired. By assembling multiple layers of DNA-conjugated nanoparticles we illustrate the capability of PEG surface coatings to exquisitely direct the nanoparticles onto the lithographic patterns with almost zero nonspecific reaction per square micron. We further suggest that the use of PEG to eliminate nonspecific reaction may be extended to micro- and nanoscale fabrication systems that make use of a variety of different nanostructures.
Remaking Regional Economies: Power, Labor, and Firm Strategies in the Knowledge Economy – By Susan Christopherson and Jennifer Clark

The article reviews the book "Remaking Regional Economies: Power, Labor, and Firm Strategies in the Knowledge Economy," by Susan Christopherson and Jennifer Clark.
Compensation modes in counterdoped rutile

Abstract Thermogravimetric measurements were conducted on undoped, Nb 5+ or Ta 5+ donor-doped, and Al 3+ acceptor doped rutile at 1000°C and 10 5 –10 −7 Pa oxygen activity. Nb 5+ or Ta 5+ doped rutile was counterdoped by Al 3+ in order to identify the role of Al 3+ acceptor and its effect on donor doped rutile. Our results show that both dopants enter the lattice substitutionally for Ti 4+ , that Al 3+ is as effective an acceptor as Nb 5+ or that Ta 5+ is effective as a donor, and the compensation occurs on a one-to-one basis. Earlier reports indicate that Al 3+ is at best 50–70% efficient as an acceptor.
Night illumination in the near- and short-wave infrared spectral bands and the potential for silicon and indium-gallium-arsenide imagers to perform night targeting

On a moonless night, the primary source of natural illumination in the near infrared and short-wave infrared spectral bands is airglow. We use data gathered by astronomers and atmospheric scientists to estimate the magnitude and variability of airglow ground illumination. Based on that foundation, we analyze the target acquisition performance of imagers that use silicon and indium-gallium-arsenide focal plane arrays.
Paths in graphs and minimal π-sequences in semigroups

By taking a graph theoretic point of view, the author's theory of minimal sequences in semi groups is generalized to minimal @p-sequences, where @p is any positive quasi-order on the semi group. This generalization is especially complete when @p is a linear quasi-order. Finally some possible future applications to the social sciences are considered.
THE RELATIONSHIP OF CARDIAC SHEAR AND TRACE ELEMENT CONTENT TO BEEF MUSCLE TENDERNESS

The purpose of this investigation was to determine whether mechanical shear values of the cardiac muscle could be useful in predicting skeletal muscle tenderness as measured by mechanical shear and sensory evaluation methods. The metal ion content of bovine skeletal muscle was also determined and evaluated for its ability to predict skeletal muscle tenderness. W-B shear results indicate cardiac muscle tenderness is related to semimembranosis tenderness, but the magnitude of the correlation coefficient is not high enough for adequate prediction capabilities. However, the predictive capability of element content is very good for all three tenderness measures-sensory panel, W-B and rotary shear. These results indicate the good potential of this approach to tenderness prediction.
An adaptive benefit of facultative coprophagy in the German cockroach Blattella germanica

A possible adaptive benefit of coprophagy was investigated in nymphs of the German cockroach Blattella germanica (L.). 2. Newly ecdysed first instars, given no source of food other than conspecific faeces, survived significantly longer than first instars deprived of faeces. The faeces of adult males and females may be of different quality, however, because nymphs given female faeces were more likely to moult into the second stadium than nymphs given male faeces. 3. In contrast to first instars, second instars provided adult faeces survived only slightly longer than starved counterparts. Faecal feeding is therefore stage-specific, as is the benefit derived from it. 4. The relationship between the nutrient composition of faeces and the survival of nymphs was also examined. First instars fed the faeces of adults that had been maintained on a high (50%) protein diet, died more slowly than first instars fed the faeces of adults that had been maintained on medium (22.5%) and low (5%) protein diets. Chemical analysis of faeces showed that the concentration of protein in adult faeces increased with the level of protein in the diet. Moreover, food choice assays showed that first instars, unlike adults, ingested more of the high-protein diets. 5. These data support the idea that coprophagy is a stage-specific adaptive behaviour that permits first instars to moult into the second stadium with minimal foraging.
Human epithelial ovarian cancer cell steroid secretion and its control by gonadotropins

To elucidate the role of gonadotropins in regulating steroid metabolism in human epithelial ovarian carcinoma (OV Ca), cells were cultured from a number of OV Ca localized to the ovary. These cells uniformly secreted 17-beta-estradiol (E2), and cells from some OV Ca also secreted progesterone (P), as well as CA 125. Secretion rates decreased with time in culture and number of subcultures. In the original and first few subcultures, 1-10 pg/ml/microgram DNA/24 hr of E2 was secreted and P secretion varied from 1 to 8 ng/ml/microgram DNA/24 hr under basal conditions. Secretion rates for CA 125 were between 5 and 300 U/ml/day. Approximately 30% of the primary cultures from cystadenocarcinomas responded to hCG and hFSH and 70% of cultures responded to 8-Br-cAMP with 2- to 10-fold increases in secretion of E2. In one primary culture, hCG produced a dose-related increase in E2 production between 1 and 5 ng/ml, but the response declined to zero at 25 ng/ml. In the same cells, exposure to hCG and cAMP for 72 hr produced cell death, whereas hFSH had no such effect. Subculturing reduced steroidogenic responses to the hormones but the response to cAMP was maintained to a greater degree. These results suggest that some OV Ca-derived cells are steroidogenic in vitro and that some of these cells respond with increased E2 secretion to agents which are well-known stimulators of steroidogenesis in normal ovarian cells.
Investigating incidence of common ground and alternative courses of action in an online forum

Online forums support civic discourses on local politics, but it is not clear whether they generate decision-relevant outcomes. Using deliberative democracy as a theoretical lens, this paper proposes a coding scheme for understanding the progress of citizens' deliberation through content analysis from a naturally occurring online discussion of a local planning project. By comparing patterns of this online discourse with normative views of deliberative dialogues, we found that important indicators of the deliberative ideal are missing. Our results show that citizens were not able to move towards advanced phases of deliberation as prescribed by deliberative democracy theory; and explain why it failed to develop common ground and joint assessment of alternative courses of action. We further explore possible causes of such patterns and identified a number of barriers that make online discussions less optimal to achieve common ground and collective judgment. Based on such findings, we suggest ways to improve deliberative outcomes by introducing active facilitation and advanced information support.
Identification of Male-Specific AFLP Markers in Dioecious Texas Bluegrass

Dioecy is a breeding system that promotes cross-pollination in plants. The transfer of this trait into economically important self-pollinated cereal crops would revolutionize the production of hybrids in these species and provide a means for increasing yields because of heterosis. Texas bluegrass (Poa arachnifera Torr.) (2n = 8x = 56) is a polymorphic dioecious species that provides an opportunity to genetically map the dioecy locus. In this study, amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP)-based linkage maps were constructed for both the maternal and paternal plants used to develop a mapping population of Texas bluegrass. The maternal map contained 126 single dose restriction fragments (SDRFs), 31 linkage groups, 1744 cM, and an average marker spacing of 13.8 cM. The paternal map contained 210 SDRFs, 46 linkage groups, 2699 cM, and an average marker spacing of 12.9 cM. Approximately 76 to 81% of the Texas bluegrass genome was covered. Two AFLP markers (txbg7 and txbg154) mapped equidistantly (9.5 cM) on opposite sides of the dioecy locus (PDio1) on the paternal map. These markers provide a preliminary tool for studying sex determination and a framework for further characterization of the genomic region conferring dioecy in Texas bluegrass.
An X-ray scatter system for material identification in cluttered objects: A Monte Carlo simulation study

Abstract The analysis of X-ray scatter patterns has been demonstrated as an effective method of identifying specific materials in mixed object environments, for both biological and non-biological applications. Here we describe an X-ray scatter imaging system for material identification in cluttered objects and investigate its performance using a large-scale Monte Carlo simulation study of one-thousand objects containing a broad array of materials. The Geant4 Monte Carlo source code for Rayleigh scatter physics was modified to model coherent scatter diffraction in bulk materials based on experimentally measured form factors for 33 materials. The simulation was then used to model coherent scatter signals from a variety of targets and clutter (background) materials in one thousand randomized objects. The resulting scatter images were used to characterize four parameters of the imaging system that affected its ability to identify target materials: (a) the arrangement of materials in the object, (b) clutter attenuation, (c) type of target material, and (d) the X-ray tube current. We found that the positioning of target materials within the object did not significantly affect their detectability; however, a strong negative correlation was observed between the target detectability and the clutter attenuation of the object. The imaging signal was also found to be relatively invariant to increases in X-ray tube current above 1 mAs for most materials considered in the study. This work is the first Monte Carlo study to our knowledge of a large population of cluttered object of an X-ray scatter imaging system for material identification and lays the foundation for large-scale studies of the effectiveness of X-ray scatter imaging systems for material identification in complex samples.
Air-Ground, Ground-Air Communications Using Pseudo-Noise Through a Satellite

An air-ground, ground-air communications system that utilizes a satellite and a central control facility is described. The double-hop pseudo-noise system advantages, including equal sharing of power, use of frequency translating repeaters, optimum multipath rejection, and acceptable power densities on the ground are discussed. The selection of code division is presented together with an analysis of signal-to-noise ratios with a varied input. Modulation schemes are discussed, pro and con, and the effective radiated power versus antenna sizes for several combinations are analyzed.
Relationships among HMO hospital utilization, physician visits, and years operational.

Statistical tests are performed on the membership of HMOs for which data are available (N=124) to determine if (1) hospital utilization by HMO members is correlated with physician visits, (2) hospital utilization is correlated with the number of years a HMO is operational, and (3) physician visits is correlated with the number of years a HMO is operational. Statistical tests indicate that there is no correlation among the three pairs of variables.
The Development of New Microsensor Coatings and a Short Survey of Microsensor Technology.

Abstract This review covers various aspects of microsensor technology with which we have been associated in our research program. Current work deals with the development of new coatings for use on surface acoustic wave (SAW) devices for both resistance and frequency-based measurements. The microsensor area is currently a small but rapidly expanding field that involves diverse disciplines, including synthetic and polymer chemistry, analytical chemistry, surface science, computer science, and electronic engineering. We have attempted to assist the reader by describing various other facets while highlighting the development of new microsensor coatings. These facets include the way in which the synthetic chemistry is guided by requirements of coating technology and surface science and notes on the use of sophisticated electronic devices and data manipulation techniques to evaluate the compounds synthesized.
Depressive symptoms and mortality in men: results from the Multiple Risk Factor Intervention Trial.

Background and Purpose— Depression may be a risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality. We evaluated long-term mortality risk associated with depressive symptoms measured at middle age among men at high risk for coronary heart disease (CHD). Methods— 12 866 men without definite evidence of CHD at study entry but who had above average risk of CHD based on blood pressure, blood cholesterol levels, and/or cigarette smoking were recruited into the Multiple Risk Factor Intervention Trial (MRFIT). Survivors at the end of the trial were followed-up for mortality for an additional 18 years. Men who had completed the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CES-D) scale near the end of the trial (n=11 216) were used in a prospective analysis of post-trial all-cause and cause-specific mortality during 18-year follow-up after CES-D assessment. Results— Greater depressive symptoms measured at the end of the trial were associated with significantly higher risk of all-cause mortality and for cause-speci...
Reexamining the research exemption

The US Supreme Court is considering the reach of patents into basic research. If it decides to exempt a broad swathe of research, the biotech industry could lose millions.
On the determination of the view function to the images of a surface in a nonplanar specular reflector.

View function to images of surface in nonplanar specular reflector determined by general mathematical expressions
Individual and contextual influences on self-assessed training needs

Reliance on self-assessed training needs for input into decisions regarding training participation and design is increasingly common. Previous study results indicate that perceptions of training utility influence these self-assessments. In a sample of 380 managers and supervisors, this study found that training self-efficacy and managerial support positively influenced perceptions of training utility, while educational level was negatively associated with these perceptions. In addition, training utility perceptions and span of control both directly and positively influenced reported need for training in management skills. Implications for both research and practice are discussed.
EUV mask fabrication with Cr absorber

In an attempt to narrow the choice for an absorber used in EUV masks, different materials are being evaluated. These materials need to meet the absorber requirements of EUV absorbance, emissivity, inspection, and repair, to name a few. We have fabricated masks using Cr absorbers. The absorber stack consists of a repair buffer of SiON and a conductive etch stop of Cr sandwiched between the SiON repair buffer film and the Mo/Si multilayer mirror deposited on a Si wafer. However, to increase the process latitude, the Cr etch stop needs to be removed from the stack, in particular for mask repair. The absorber layer was patterned using commercial DUV resist and the pattern was transferred using reactive ion etching (RIE) with halogen-based gases. Completed masks exhibited negligible shift in the centroid wavelength of reflectivity and less than 2% loss in peak reflectivity due to mask patterning. Completed masks were exposed at Sandia National Laboratories' 10X EUV exposure system and equal lines and spaces down to 80 nm were successfully printed. The masks were also imaged in a microscope with 248 nm wavelength, and the focused ion beam repair selectivity to the buffer layer (SiON) was established. The paper summarizes the mask fabrication process, EUV printability, mask repair, inspection and emissivity for EUVL masks with Cr absorber.
Identification of DXCF cyanobacteriochrome lineages with predictable photocycles

Diverse organisms use phytochrome photoreceptors to measure the ratio of red to far-red light in their respective environments. In addition to red/far-red phytochromes, many cyanobacteria contain distantly related cyanobacteriochrome (CBCR) photosensors that also use photoisomerization of a covalently bound linear tetrapyrrole (bilin) chromophore to measure multiple colors of light. CBCRs exhibit a remarkable variety of photocycles spanning the near ultraviolet and the entire visible spectrum. One group of CBCRs, distinguished by the presence of a conserved Asp-Xaa-Cys-Phe (DXCF) motif or variations thereon, includes members with violet/green, blue/teal, blue/green, blue/yellow, blue/orange, green/blue and green/teal photocycles. To date, it has not proven possible to predict such photocycles from primary amino acid sequence. We here use site-directed mutagenesis, phylogenetic analysis, and characterization of six new CBCRs to probe structure/function relationships in DXCF CBCRs. This approach has defined two groups of DXCF CBCRs with specialized green/blue and blue/orange photocycles that are robustly predictable from primary sequence data. Such knowledge facilitates the use of CBCRs for synthetic photobiological applications and informs approaches to understand the roles of CBCRs in cyanobacterial photobiology.