cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Emergency contraceptive pills: dispensing practices knowledge and attitudes of South Dakota pharmacists.

CONTEXT: Despite a decision by the Food and Drug Administration to deny over-the-counter status to emergency contraceptive pills, pharmacists play a critical role in a woman's access to this medication, especially in areas with large rural populations. Pharmacists' knowledge about and attitudes toward emergency contraceptive pills may affect whether pharmacies carry the medication and whether individual pharmacists dispense it. METHODS: In October 2003, all registered pharmacists living and working in South Dakota were mailed a survey to assess their dispensing practices for, knowledge about and attitudes toward emergency contraceptive pills. Data for 501 respondents were analyzed through chi-square testing and multivariate logistic regression. RESULTS: Fifty-four percent of respondents worked in pharmacies that carried emergency contraceptive pills. Of these, 67% had dispensed the medication in 2003, and 24% were not comfortable providing customer counseling about the method. Thirty-seven percent of all pharmacists did not understand its mechanism of action; 43% and 21%, respectively, incorrectly answered questions about the medication's link to birth defects and health risks. Only 5% correctly answered all three questions. Eighty-four percent of surveyed pharmacists believed that the medication should not be made available over the counter. Multivariate analysis showed that knowledge of emergency contraception and support for over-the-counter status were relatively low among pharmacists working in small communities. CONCLUSIONS: The education of pharmacists about emergency contraceptive pills must be strengthened to ensure that women receive accurate medical information and access to all contraceptive services.
A Process Model for Approximating the Production Costs of the Fermentative Synthesis of Sophorolipids

Sophorolipids are microbial glycolipids that possess surfactant-type properties. Sophorolipids have been tested successfully in a number of potential industrial and niche applications but are generally acknowledged to require higher production costs when compared to petroleum-based surfactants. The objective of this study was to develop a process economic model for the fermentative synthesis of sophorolipids using contemporary process simulation software and current reagent, equipment, and supply costs, following current production practices. Glucose (Glc) and either high oleic sunflower oil (HOSO) or oleic acid (OA) were used as feedstocks and the annual production capacity of the plant was set at 90.7 million kg/year with continuous operation of 24 h a day for 330 days per year. Major equipment costs were calculated to be US$17.1 million but other considerations such as capital, labor, material and utilities costs were also included. The single greatest contributor to the overall production/operating cost was raw materials, which accounted for 89 and 87 % of the total estimated production expenditures for the HOSO and OA-based fermentations, respectively. Based on this model and yields of 100 g/L, the cost of large-scale sophorolipid synthesis via fermentation from Glc:HOSO was calculated to be US$2.95/kg ($1.34/lb) and from Glc:OA to be US$2.54/kg ($1.15/lb). The model is flexible and can be adjusted to reflect changes in capital, production and feedstock costs as well as changes in the type of feedstocks used.
Tarski's theory of definability: common themes in descriptive set theory, recursive function theory, classical pure logic, and finite-universe logic

Abstract Although the theory of definability had many important antecedents—such as the descriptive set theory initiated by the French semi-intuitionists in the early 1900s—the main ideas were first laid out in precise mathematical terms by Alfred Tarski beginning in 1929. We review here the basic notions of languages, explicit definability, and grammatical complexity, and emphasize common themes in the theories of definability for four important languages underlying, respectively, descriptive set theory, recursive function theory, classical pure logic, and finite-universe logic. We review the history of previous studies of the similarities and differences in the theories of definability of the first three of these four languages. A seminal role leading toward unification of the theories has been played by the separation principles introduced (and regarded as so “fundamental”) by Nikolai Luzin in 1927. Emphasizing analogies and driving toward further unification embracing finite-universe logic (a setting of special interest in theoretical computer science) we concentrate on a simple example—the first and second separation principles for existential-universal first-order sentences (which are known to fail in descriptive set theory, recursive function theory, and classical pure logic). Using this as a test case for the fundamental problem of how to “finitize” arguments in classical pure logic to the finite-universe case, we are led to the analogous negative solution by using the theory of certain special graphs: a graph is ( m , n , p , q )- special for any positive integers m , n , p , q iff it is bipartite with m red points and n blue points and for every p -tuple ( q -tuple) of red (blue) points there is a blue (red) point to (with) which they are all connected (disconnected). As an aside we introduce for further study a natural “Ramseyesque” increasing sequence A of positive integers, where A ( p ) is the least positive integer n for which an ( n , n , p , p )-special graph exists.
Acoustic similarity effects on long-term memory for paired associates

Does acoustic similarity between the left-hand members of two paired-associate (PA) lists impair long-term memory (LTM) in a proaction design? Under one treatment, the left-hand terms of the two lists were acoustically similar (e.g., YOUNG-LUNG); under a second treatment, they were not acoustically similar. Either 10 min, 24 hr, or 1 week intervened between the end of List 2 learning and the recall test on List 2. Subsequent to the memory test on List 2, retention of List 1 was also assessed. Neither recall of List 2 nor memory for List 1 was substantially affected by the manipulation in acoustic similarity. For LTM following multitrial training on two full-scale PA lists, it is concluded that both proactive and retroactive inhibition attributable to acoustic similarity between the left-hand terms of the lists are negligible.
Energy Balance of the Global Photovoltaic (PV) Industry - Is the PV Industry a Net Electricity Producer?

A combination of declining costs and policy measures motivated by greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction and energy security have driven rapid growth in the global installed capacity of solar photovoltaics (PV). This paper develops a number of unique data sets, namely the following: calculation of distribution of global capacity factor for PV deployment; meta-analysis of energy consumption in PV system manufacture and deployment; and documentation of reduction in energetic costs of PV system production. These data are used as input into a new net energy analysis of the global PV industry, as opposed to device level analysis. In addition, the paper introduces a new concept: a model tracking energetic costs of manufacturing and installing PV systems, including balance of system (BOS) components. The model is used to forecast electrical energy requirements to scale up the PV industry and determine the electricity balance of the global PV industry to 2020. Results suggest that the industry was a net consumer of electricity as recently as 2010. However, there is a >50% that in 2012 the PV industry is a net electricity provider and will "pay back" the electrical energy required for its early growth before 2020. Further reducing energetic costs of PV deployment will enable more rapid growth of the PV industry. There is also great potential to increase the capacity factor of PV deployment. These conclusions have a number of implications for RD designing more efficient and durable systems; and deploying PV systems in locations that will achieve high capacity factors.
A computer-aided methodology for the analysis and classification of British-Canadian children's traditional singing games

To structure a music education program in Canada based on the Hungarian model, Bartok's “grammatical principle” was adopted to define the musical characteristics of British-Canadian children's traditional songs. A computer-aided methodology analyzed a sample of singing games from a personal collection to identify 4-phrase variants, and extracted and tabulated by phrasal position their common phrase patterns of equal length. Future programs will complete the phrase analysis and analyze other musical characteristics, grouping variants successively to determine the styles of the entire collection.
Hypertrophic gastritis simulating carcinoma

Abstract 1. 1. The literature on gastritis simulating carcinoma is briefly reviewed. 2. 2. The criteria for surgical intervention in gastritis are listed. 3. 3. A case of hypertrophic gastritis which could not be clinically distinguished from carcinoma and which responded well to resection is presented.
Computers, Creativity and Communicative Competence: An Association Machine

Abstract Theory and practice in Second Language Acquisition recognize and encourage the personal qualities, intellectual abilities and life experiences that students bring to learning a new language. Assignments and activities in the language classroom consequently value and capitalize on students’ creativity, especially their ability to play with the language they are learning. The project described in this paper explores the possibilities of students using the computer as a invention tool as part of their second language learning. Students of English as a second language (ESL) created associative poems and prose using computer‐based tools. They were then asked to reflect on their use of these invention tools; specifically the relationship between the creative processes in which they engaged and the learning of English. The invention tools used by students to generate and reflect on the generation of words, images, and extended writings are described. Teachers’ and students’ reflections on their inventio...
One Profession, Multiple Identities: Russian Regional Reporters' Perceptions of the Professional Community

Drawing on perspectives on occupation and identity, this study examines Russian regional journalists' perceptions of their professional community. Different journalistic values derived from a fierce professional competition contributed to reporters' view of the community as disjointed and polarized. The study also found that type of ownership influenced journalists' identity and the way they conceptualize practice. Although journalists of private newspapers believe a newspaper should be a profit-generating enterprise, state owned/supported newspapers' reporters think a quality paper should inform citizens regardless of profit concern. In this province, state-owned or supported newspapers have well-defined missions, whereas the paper that struggles to survive as privately owned lacks clearly articulated goals.
Overview: MURI Center on spectroscopic and time domain detection of trace explosives in condensed and vapor phases

The research center established by Army Research Office under the Multidisciplinary University Research Initiative program pursues a multidisciplinary approach to investigate and advance the use of complementary analytical techniques for sensing of explosives and/or explosive-related compounds as they occur in the environment. The techniques being investigated include Terahertz (THz) imaging and spectroscopy, Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS), Cavity Ring Down Spectroscopy (CRDS) and Resonance Enhanced Multiphoton Ionization (REMPI). This suite of techniques encompasses a diversity of sensing approaches that can be applied to detection of explosives in condensed phases such as adsorbed species in soil or can be used for vapor phase detection above the source. Some techniques allow for remote detection while others have highly specific and sensitive analysis capabilities. This program is addressing a range of fundamental, technical issues associated with trace detection of explosive related compounds using these techniques. For example, while both LIBS and THz can be used to carry-out remote analysis of condensed phase analyte from a distance in excess several meters, the sensitivities of these techniques to surface adsorbed explosive-related compounds are not currently known. In current implementations, both CRDS and REMPI require sample collection techniques that have not been optimized for environmental applications. Early program elements will pursue the fundamental advances required for these techniques including signature identification for explosive-related compounds/interferents and trace analyte extraction. Later program tasks will explore simultaneous application of two or more techniques to assess the benefits of sensor fusion.
In Defense of the American West : Edward Abbey's Desert Solitaire: A Season in the Wilderness

This article discusses Edward Abbey's Desert Solitaire: A Season in the Wilderness. It is a key foundational work of critical reflection from the growing canon of American environmental writing, and this book remains well-worth reading by the general public, environmental policy-makers, and ecological thinkers. The analysis reviews the conflicted but enduring popularity of Abbey in the American environmental movement based upon his remarkable meditations in this book about the desert Southwest, modern industrialism, the Grand Canyon, and American society as these thoughts grew out of his work as a park ranger at The Arches National Monument.
Comparative biochemical and immunological studies of the glycine betaine synthesis pathway in diverse families of dicotyledons.

Members of the Chenopodiaceae can accumulate high levels (>100 μmol·(g DW)-1) of glycine betaine (betaine) in leaves when salinized. Chenopodiaceae synthesize betaine by a two-step oxidation of choline (choline→betaine aldehyde→ betaine), with the second step catalyzed by betaine aldehyde dehydrogenase (BADH, EC 1.2.1.8). High betaine levels have also been reported in leaves of species from several distantly-related families of dicotyledons, raising the question of whether the same betaine-synthesis pathway is used in all cases.
Coalescence in Polymer Blends during Shearing

Control of coalescence is a critical factor in preparing polymer blends with specific morphologies. Coalescence was studied as a function of shear rate, ¤olume fraction, ¤iscosity ratio, and amount of block copolymer in a model system comprising polystyrene () ( ) ( ) PS and high density polyethylene HDPE . Small drops of HDPE ; 2 mm were initially deeloped by shearing at 10 s y 1 in a cup-cone shear cell for 20 min. The shear rate g was then decreased to between 0.1 and 2.5 s y 1 , and the state of coalescence was ˙ determined after quenching samples following specified periods of steady shearing. The PS portions of quenched samples were dissoled in chloroform, and the HDPE particles filtered from the suspension. These particles were imaged by scanning electron mi- croscopy, which showed a sharp increase in theolume-aerage particle diameter at specific times that depend on shear rateolume fraction, andiscosity ratio. Little change () was obsered in the number aerage diameter D at low shear rates up to a total n strain of 360. At higher shear rates, howeer, D significantly increased. Interestingly, n adding small amounts of block copolymer to the blends significantly suppressed coales- cence. These results are discussed in terms of particle trajectory and deformation during flow.
Individual-based simulation models for forest succession and management

Individual-based forest models simulate forest dynamics on the basis of establishment, growth and death of individual trees. This paper attempts to review and compare two major types of individual-based forest models: growth-yield and gap models. Although the two types of models share some similar features, they differ in model structure and data requirements and play several complementary roles. Growth-yield models are used by foresters to assist timber production and evaluate growth and yield of one to several commercial timber species in managed forests, while gap models are generally developed by ecologists to explore ecological mechanisms and patterns of structure and functional dynamics in natural forest ecosystems. Site-specific environmental and species information is necessary for constructing growth-yield models while gap models require species-specific biological information of individual trees and site-specific environmental data. The growth-yield models are more diverse in terms of model structure. In contrast, gap models belong to the same genealogy and later gap models are ultimately derived from the earliest one although they may vary in detail. In the future, we expect to see more individualbased hybrid models which integrate gap models with growth-yield models and ecophysiological models. As computer technology advances explosively, individual-based models could be much more efficient and user-friendly. There have existed disproportionately few individual-based models for biodiverse forests such as evergreen tropical rain forests. Development of individual-based models for tropical rain forests is more challenging and is being stimulated by new international conservation efforts.
The Personal is Personal (Review Essay)

Book reviewed in this article: John B. Boles (ed.), Autobiographical Reflections on Southern Religious History
The predictive value of the first postnatal ultrasound in children with antenatal hydronephrosis

Abstract Objective To evaluate the effectiveness of the first postnatal ultrasound (US) in predicting the final postnatal diagnosis using a database of children followed prospectively for antenatal hydronephrosis, and to compare these findings with a systematic review of the literature. Methods The study involved 1441 children who had their radiological evaluation between 3 and 60 days of life, including an US, performed at our institution in 1998–2006. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed. A systematic review of articles on prenatal hydronephrosis resulted in 31 studies with 2202 patients who met the inclusion criteria for analysis. Results 62.0% of renal units (RUs) had transient or non-obstructive hydronephrosis. Increasing degree of hydronephrosis correlated with increased risk of urological pathologies (from 29.6% RUs in the mild group to 96.3% RUs in the severe group). A systematic review of the literature indicated very poor quality data, but the findings appeared to be concordant with those from our patient population. Conclusion The findings from this study will help to quantify the incidence of postnatal pathology based upon the first postnatal US parameters. This information is useful for counseling and for determining which postnatal radiological tests will be necessary.
The Representation of Convection in Mesoscale Models. Part I: Scheme Fabrication and Calibration

Abstract Currently, there is no adequate cumulus parameterization suitable for use in mesoscale models having horizontal resolutions between 5 and 50 kilometers. Based on the similarity of the temporal and spatial evolution of the vertical variances between a CCOPE supercell and a generic tropical squall line as explicitly simulated by the Regional Atmospheric Modeling System developed at Colorado State University, a convective parameterization scheme is developed that represents microscale turbulence with a modified second-order closure scheme and cumulus draft-scale eddies with a convective adjustment scheme. The microscale turbulence scheme is based upon the Mellor and Yamada 2.5-level closure modified to predict solely on w′ w′ and includes Zeman and Lumley's formulation for the buoyancy-driven mixed layer to close the pressure term and the eddy transport term. If deep convection is indicated, the microscale turbulence scheme includes contributions from cumulus draft-scale fluxes determined from a clo...
Elongational flow and melt‐spinning instability of concentrated suspensions of small particles in polymer melts

It is suggested that the existence of yield values in the elongational viscosity of concentrated suspensions of small particles in polymer melts leads to enhanced instability of uniaxial stretching and melt-spinning behavior. This is supported by analyses of filament stability. Severe instabilities are found in experiments on both simple stretching and melt spinning of filaments of suspensions of carbon black, titanium dioxide, and calcium carbonate in polystyrene. Necking and low elongations to break are observed in the former case. The melt-spinning results show “draw resonance” occurring at low drawdown ratios and high amplitudes of disturbances in the unstable region.
Transcriptional control of synaptic differentiation by retrograde signals

Synaptic differentiation during development is a multi-step process, which requires reciprocal communication between pre- and postsynaptic cells. Cell surface interactions can induce the assembly of synaptic specializations but maintenance and growth of synapses depend on transcriptional regulation. Transcriptional responses associated with synaptic differentiation are observed in central and peripheral neurons and depend on retrograde signals coming from the target region. Although the identity of most of the retrograde signaling pathways remains to be identified, the TGFbeta family of growth factors have emerged as one crucial signal at the neuromuscular junction. Here, we discuss evidence for transcriptional control during synaptic differentiation and the signaling pathways mediating retrograde TGFbeta signaling.
Tasks in Acceptance: Mothers of Lesbian Daughters

Eleven mothers were interviewed to explore their processes of coming to accept their lesbian daughters’ sexual orientation. Qualitative research analysis yielded five domains: (1) What stayed the same after the daughter’s coming out, (2) What changed after the daughter’scomingout,(3)Ongoingtasksintheacceptanceprocess, (4) Resources identified and utilized, and (5) Emotional struggles. The mothers’ ongoing tasks in acceptance were: respecting their daughters’ processes of coming to terms with their sexuality, not being concerned with other people’s judgments, advocating for their daughters and the GLBT population, and regarding their daughters’ sexual orientation as only one part of them.
In vitro studies of rye grass pollen antigens.

Abstract The activity of rye grass Group I and II antigens, which constitute the major allergens of this pollen, was investigated by the in vitro technique of histamine release from the leukocytes of sensitive donors. We found that: (1) In rye grass pollen, as distinct from ragweed pollen, there is no cross-reactivity between the two major allergenic proteins. (2) There is no allergenic or haptenic activity in dialysates of rye grass pollen such as that described by Malley and associates in timothy grass pollen. (3) The major allergens of rye grass and ragweed pollens (Group I antigens and antigen E) show no antigenic or allergenic cross-reactivity.
Biomechanical Quantification of Flexion Movement (Ducking) of the Human Head-Neck and Rollover Accidents

Rollover accidents are one of the major types of crashes contributing to the serious or fatal injuries to occupants [1]. The roof crush in rollover accidents is associated with serious injuries to head and neck system [2]. The roof crush intrudes into the occupant survival space and imparts force to the head. The excessive force on the head subjects the cervical spine to injurious level. A commonly observed cervical spine injury in rollover accidents is locked facets with no major bony fractures that are often associated with the flexion-distraction type of loading [3]. Although numerous studies addressed the mechanism of locked facet injuries and the survival space issues [4–9], limited comprehensive efforts have been advanced so far. It is noted that humans tend to duck their head while startled due to sudden fear [10,11]. It is hypothesized that the occupants inside the vehicle tend to duck their heads as a protective mechanism to avoid impact on the head. Although range of motion of the cervical spine is well reported [12], the change in downward movement of the head-neck system (ducking) is not studied well. The present study quantifies the downward movement of the head-neck system of volunteers while seated erect.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
The Effects of Intraoral Pressure Sensors on Normal Young and Old Swallowing Patterns

Lingual pressure generation plays a crucial role in oropharyngeal swallowing. To more discretely study the dynamic oropharyngeal system, a 3-bulb array of pressure sensors was designed with the Kay Elemetrics Corporation (Lincoln Park, NJ). The influence of the device upon normal swallowing mechanics and boluses representative of flow relative to age and bolus condition was the focus of this study. Twelve healthy adults in two age groups (31 ± 5 years, 2 males and 4 females, and 78 ± 7 years, 2 males and 4 females) participated. Each subject was instructed to swallow four boluses representative of conditions with and without three pressure sensors affixed to the hard palate. Postswallow residue at four locations, Penetration/Aspiration Scale scores, and three bolus flow timing measures were assessed videofluoroscopically with respect to age and bolus condition. The only statistically significant influences attributable to the presence of the pressure sensors were slight increases in residue in the oral cavity and upper esophageal sphincter with some bolus consistencies, 8% more frequent trace penetration of the laryngeal vestibule predominantly with effortful swallowing, and variances in oral clearance duration. We conclude that the presence of the pressure sensors does not significantly alter normal swallowing patterns of healthy individuals.
A comparative study on the path length performance of maze-searching and robot motion planning algorithms

A number of existing maze-searching and robot motion planning algorithms are studied from the standpoint of a single performance criterion. The main motivation is to build a framework for selecting basic planning algorithms for autonomous vehicles and robot arm manipulators that operate in an environment filled with unknown obstacles of arbitrary shapes. In choosing an appropriate criterion, it is noted that besides convergence, minimizing the length of generated paths is a single major consideration in planning algorithms. In addition, since no complete information is ever available, optimal solutions are ruled out. Accordingly, the performance criterion is defined in terms of the upper bound on the length of generated paths as a function of the maze perimeter. The comparison shows that the special structure of graphs that correspond to planar environments with obstacles actually makes it possible to exceed the efficiency of general maze-searching algorithms. >
Static Type-Inference for Trust in Distributed Information Systems

Decision-makers in critical fields such as medicine and fi- nance make use of a wide range of information available over the Internet. Mediation, a data integration technique for distributed, heterogeneous data sources, manages the complexity and diversity of the information schemas on behalf of clients. We raise here the issue of trust: is the infor- mation so obtained trustworthy? Each client can have different perspec- tives on the desired trustworthiness the information he or she needs. We consider here the scaling problem that arises from a very large number of users accessing information from many different sources. A mediator cannot be expected to manage the potentially quadratic scaling of trust relationships clients can have with information sources. Furthermore, the possibility of using untrustworthy data increases the risk that the result- ing data will be unacceptable: a mediator might evaluate a complex query for a client, only to have the answer rejected because the client does not trust the sources of the information. To help address these issues, we introduce a general static trust-typing model, which can infer the trust ratings of query plans, based on trust meta-data about the input data to the query, even before executing the query. We also define essential properties of such a trust-typing model, namely correctness, precision and completeness. We present an example of a trust-typing model and describe some algorithmic frameworks for the use of such trust-typing models in mediator-based query evaluation.
Treating Social Skill Deficits in Children with Learning Disabilities: A Meta-Analysis of the Research

Although social skills training or intervention for children with learning disabilities has been widely used in the past 15 years, little systematic synthesis of its effectiveness is available. The current study is a meta-analysis of 53 studies on social skills training completed during this period. The mean effect size (ES) obtained was only .211, with very few differences among teachers, peers, or children themselves who judged effectiveness of training. This relatively modest effect is discussed in relation to other special interventions for children with school learning or behavioral disorders and possible links between learning disabilities and social skills that might account for poor treatment outcome.
Thermal shock cracking in a metal-particle-reinforced ceramic matrix composite

Abstract We study thermal crack shielding and thermal shock damage in a double-edge cracked metal-particle-reinforced ceramic matrix composite subjected to sudden cooling at the cracked surfaces. Under severe thermal shocks, the crack will grow but will be bridged by the plastically stretched metal particles. A linear softening bridging law is used to describe the metal particle bridging behavior. An integral equation of the thermal crack problem incorporating the bridging effect is derived and the thermal stress intensity factor at the bridged crack tip is calculated numerically. It is found that the thermal stress intensity factor is significantly reduced by the metal particle bridging. While the crack growth in thermally shocked monolithic ceramics is unstable, the composite can withstand sufficiently severe thermal shocks without failure.
Why Do Exercise-Induced Ventricular Arrhythmias Increase With Age? Role of M-Mode Echocardiographic Aging Changes

Background. Although advancing age is associated with a higher prevalence and complexity of exercise-induced ventricular arrhythmias (EIVA), the role of age-associated cardiac anatomic and functional characteristics in this relationship has not been explored. Methods. We performed both M-mode echocardiography and maximal treadmill exercise testing within two consecutive visits in 366 healthy volunteers ages 20 to 90 years from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging. Results. Simple (i.e., isolated) EIVA were detected in 79 subjects (21%) and complex EIVA (i.e., EIVA comprising 2= 10% of beats in any minute or occurring in runs) in another 17 (5%). Univariate predictors of any EIVA, whether simple or complex, were older age {p < .0001), greater LV mass index (p < .0001), male gender (p < .001), higher peak exercise systolic blood pressure {p = .003), and larger body surface area {p = .005). By multiple logistic regression analysis, only age (p = .0001) independently predicted the occurrence of EIVA. For complex EIVA alone, the strongest univariate predictors were age {p = .004), male gender (p = .008), lower maximal heart rate (p = .01), greater left atrial size (p = .03), and larger LV posterior wall thickness [p = .04); on multiple logistic regression, only older age (p = . 03) and larger left atrial size (p = .04) independently predicted the presence of complex EIVA. Conclusion. In healthy volunteers undergoing maximal treadmill exercise, greater LV wall thickness and mass are associated with the development of EIVA but they do not independently predict EIVA once the powerful effect of age is considered. The association between complex EIVA and left atrial dilatation may be mediated by higher LV end diastolic pressure and volume during exercise in subjects with larger left atria.
Blind separation of linear convolutive mixtures through parallel stochastic optimization

We apply stochastic parallel optimization techniques to on-line blind separation of linear convolutive mixtures of independent time-varying signals. The optimization performs stochastic gradient descent on a scalar measure of statistical independence observed directly on the outputs of the unmixing network, which contains a matrix of finite impulse response (FIR) filters. We derive on-line adaptation rules, and a scalable modular architecture with minimum memory requirements amenable to parallel VLSI implementation. The architecture implements a slight modification of the network adaptation rule, which omits symmetrical non-causal terms in the computation of the stochastic gradient. Simulations indicate near-perfect separation using both versions of the rule, with a minimum phase response resulting from the simplified version.
Multiple-Choice Tests Exonerated, at Least of Some Charges Fostering Test-Induced Learning and Avoiding Test-Induced Forgetting

Among the criticisms of multiple-choice tests is that—by exposing the correct answer as one of the alternatives—such tests engage recognition processes rather than the productive retrieval processes known to enhance later recall. We tested whether multiple-choice tests could trigger productive retrieval processes—provided the alternatives were made plausible enough to enable test takers to retrieve both why the correct alternatives were correct and why the incorrect alternatives were incorrect. In two experiments, we found not only that properly constructed multiple-choice tests can indeed trigger productive retrieval processes, but also that they had one potentially important advantage over cued-recall tests. Both testing formats fostered retention of previously tested information, but multiple-choice tests also facilitated recall of information pertaining to incorrect alternatives, whereas cued-recall tests did not. Thus, multiple-choice tests can be constructed so that they exercise the very retrieval ...
Dissimilatory sulfur cycling in oxygen minimum zones: an emerging metagenomics perspective

Biological diversity in marine OMZs (oxygen minimum zones) is dominated by a complex community of bacteria and archaea whose anaerobic metabolisms mediate key steps in global nitrogen and carbon cycles. Molecular and physiological studies now confirm that OMZs also support diverse micro-organisms capable of utilizing inorganic sulfur compounds for energy metabolism. The present review focuses specifically on recent metagenomic data that have helped to identify the molecular basis for autotrophic sulfur oxidation with nitrate in the OMZ water column, as well as a cryptic role for heterotrophic sulfate reduction. Interpreted alongside marker gene surveys and process rate measurements, these data suggest an active sulfur cycle with potentially substantial roles in organic carbon input and mineralization and critical links to the OMZ nitrogen cycle. Furthermore, these studies have created a framework for comparing the genomic diversity and ecology of pelagic sulfur-metabolizing communities from diverse low-oxygen regions.
Accelerating entrepreneurial space: The case for an NACA-style organization

The entrepreneurial space industry today faces challenges similar to those facing the commercial aircraft industry in the early part of the last century. At that time the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA) helped develop many of the key technologies that enabled air travel to become effective, economical and safe. Today, in discussing how best to support the realization of a commercial space economy, we suggest revisiting what an NACA-style organization can contribute. This paper outlines the key concepts that made the NACA so successful: a committee structure, open source publication, a willingness to try any useful experimental method, and a focus on problem definition.
Problem Behavior Theory: An Examination of the Behavior Structure System in Latino and non-Latino College Students

Scholars have proposed that diverse problem and conventional behaviors reflect a single underlying factor; however, others suggest that the strength and pattern of interrelations among problem and conventional behaviors are not consistent across different cultural groups. The present study investigated the factor structure of problem and conventional behaviors in Cuban, non-Cuban Latino, and non-Latino college students. Two hundred and sixty-nine college students (70% women; M age=19.0, SD=2.34) reported on their substance use, and involvement in deviant (e.g., fighting, shoplifting, vandalism) and conventional (e.g., school performance, religiosity) behaviors. In support of the behavior system of Problem Behavior Theory (PBT), a single-common factor accounted for the significant interrelations among the different problem behaviors for the entire sample. However, variations in the number of factor structures emerged by ethnic group and gender, suggesting that the behavior system may operate differently across these groups. A discussion of the role of culture on problem and conventional behaviors is presented.
A rapid method for reconstitution of bacterial membrane proteins

Summary We have devised a simple method for the reconstitution of bacterial membrane proteins directly from small (1–20 ml) volumes of cell culture, thus eliminating the preparation of membrane vesicles. Cells are subjected to simultaneous lysozyme digestion and osmotic lysis, and after brief centrifugation ghosts are solubilized in 1.2% octyl-β-D-glucopyranoside (octyl-glucoside) in the presence of added carrier lipid and an osmolyte. Aliquots of the clarified supernatant are suitable for reconstitution, as documented by using extracts from three different Gram-negative cells to recover both inorganic phosphate (Pi)-linked antiport and oxalate: formate exchange activities in proteoliposomes. These proteoliposomes are physically stable, non-leaky and can sustain a membrane potential and, because functional porins do not reconstitute, the artificial system has transport characteristics similar to those found when proteoliposomes are obtained using standard methods. This method should become an important tool for the screening and characterization of large numbers of strains, both wild-type and mutant.
ePRO systems validation: clearly defining the roles of clinical trial teams and ePRO system providers.

The emergence of technologies that enable the direct electronic capture of patient-reported outcome (PRO) data has been a profoundly significant innovation in PRO endpoint assessment in clinical trials. Based on evidence that has been mounting over the past 20 years, paper-based self-reports of measurements (e.g., peak flow values) and experiences or sensations (e.g., symptoms) are far from optimal compared with data collected electronically [1,2]. As stated by Ganser et al., paper-based approaches to patient-reported data collection can “result in untimely, unreadable, missing, illogical or otherwise faulty data” [3]. In contrast, electronic data collection systems can lead to more accurate and complete data, avoidance of secondary data entry errors, easier implementation of skip patterns, less administrative burden, and potential cost savings [2,4–11].
Near field imaging of subsurface targets using wide-band multi-static RELAX/CLEAN algorithms

The paper presents two new imaging algorithms for detecting the positions of subsurface targets, e.g., land mines, using seismic waves. They are based on the CLEAN algorithm and its high resolution version RELAX. The paper shows how the CLEAN and RELAX algorithms can be modified to work in a multi-static active array setup for detecting passive targets. Seismic surface waves reflected from various targets are collected at a receiving array and processed to locate the reflectors. The modified imaging algorithms are demonstrated to work for experimental seismic data that include mines and rocks (clutter).
Predicting erosion resistance of muds

Abstract When measured or apparent yield stress of cohesive muds is assumed to reflect average particle-particle bond strength in network structures, critical bed shear stress required for grain-by-grain entrainment can be predicted from an analysis of the forces acting on component grains of geometrically-flat mud beds. Erosion resistance is then defined in terms of cohesive yield stress as well as nominal particle size, shape, relative density, and packing geometry. Predicted values of critical bed shear stress compare favorably with existing data from selected studies in which appropriate yield stress and hydrodynamic parameters have been reported.
Luminescent quantum dots for cellular analysis

The paper describes the fabrication, characterization and applications of novel luminescent quantum dots fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) based enzymatic activity probes. The luminescent probes are based on FRET between luminescent quantum dots that serve as donors and rhodamine acceptors that are immobilized to the surface of the quantum dots through peptide linkers that contain selective enzymatic cleavage sites. Upon enzymatic cleavage of the peptide linkers the rhodamine molecules no longer provide an efficient energy transfer channel to the quantum dots, which lightes up the initially quenched the quantum dots. The quantum dots based probes were applied for detecting enzyme activity and screening enzyme inhibitors. They were also used for the measurement of extracellular matrix metallproteinases (MMPs) activity in normal and cancerous breast cells tissues.
Promoting Health (Implicitly)? A Longitudinal Content Analysis of Implicit Health Information in Cigarette Advertising, 1954-2003

Tobacco studies indicate that health-related information in cigarette advertising leads consumers to underestimate the detrimental health effects of smoking and contributes to their smoking-related perceptions, beliefs, and attitudes. This study examined the frequencies and kinds of implicit health information in cigarette advertising across five distinct smoking eras covering the years 1954-2003. Analysis of 1,135 cigarette advertisements collected through multistage probability sampling of three popular consumer magazines found that the level of implicit health information (i.e., "light" cigarette, cigarette pack color, verbal and visual health cues, cigarette portrayals, and human model-cigarette interaction) in post-Master Settlement Agreement [MSA] era ads is similar to the level in ads from early smoking eras. Specifically, "light" cigarettes were frequently promoted, and presence of light colors in cigarette packs seemed dominant after the probroadcast ban era. Impressionistic verbal health cues (e.g., soft, mild, and refreshing) appeared more frequently in post-MSA era ads than in pre-MSA era ads. Most notably, a majority of the cigarette ads portrayed models smoking, lighting, or offering a cigarette to others. The potential impact of implicit health information is discussed in the contexts of social cognition and Social Cognitive Theory. Policy implications regarding our findings are also detailed.
Design and verification of the Risø-B1 airfoil family for wind turbines

This paper presents the design and experimental verification of the Riso-B1 airfoil family for MW-s ize wind turbines with variable speed and pitch control . Seven airfoils were designed with thickness-to-chor d ratios between 15% and 53% to cover the entire span of a wind turbine blade. The airfoils were designed to have high maximum lift coefficient to allow a slender flexible blade while maintaining high aerodynamic efficiency. The design was carried out with a Riso inhouse multi disciplinary optimization tool. Wind tu nnel testing was done for Riso-B1-18 and Riso-B1-24 in t he VELUX wind tunnel, Denmark, at a Reynolds number of 1.6 ×10 6 . For both airfoils the predicted target characteristics were met. Results for Riso-B1-18 showed a maximum lift coefficient of 1.64. A standa rd case of zigzag tape leading edge roughness caused a drop in maximum lift of only 3.7%. Cases of more severe roughness caused reductions in maximum lift between 12% and 27%. Results for the Riso-B1-24 airfoil showed a maximum lift coefficient of 1.62. The standard case leading edge roughness caused a drop in maximum lift of 7.4%. Vortex generators and Gurney flaps in combination could increase maximum lift up to 2.2 (32%). NOMENCLATURE
Employment Satisfaction of University Graduates with Learning Disabilities

Because of its significant impact on overall life satisfaction, employment satisfaction is one marker for determining successful adult outcomes. The present investigation reports the perceptions of employment satisfaction for 500 graduates with learning disabilities from three postsecondary institutions. The graduates reported high levels of employment satisfaction as well as high levels of employment self-efficacy. Factors that contribute to these judgments of employment satisfaction were examined. Perceptions of employment self-efficacy were found to be a more important predictor of employment satisfaction than variables such as salary and length of time on the job. Implications are discussed in regard to transition planning for students with learning disabilities at the secondary and postsecondary levels.
Refining the statistical model for quantitative immunostaining of surface-functionalized nanoparticles by AFM

Recently, an atomic force microscopy (AFM)-based approach for quantifying the number of biological molecules conjugated to a nanoparticle surface at low number densities was reported. The number of target molecules conjugated to the analyte nanoparticle can be determined with single nanoparticle fidelity using antibody-mediated self-assembly to decorate the analyte nanoparticles with probe nanoparticles (i.e., quantitative immunostaining). This work refines the statistical models used to quantitatively interpret the observations when AFM is used to image the resulting structures. The refinements add terms to the previous statistical models to account for the physical sizes of the analyte nanoparticles, conjugated molecules, antibodies, and probe nanoparticles. Thus, a more physically realistic statistical computation can be implemented for a given sample of known qualitative composition, using the software scripts provided. Example AFM data sets, using horseradish peroxidase conjugated to gold nanoparticles, are presented to illustrate how to implement this method successfully.