cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Periodic forcing of a Brownian particle

We study the effect on a Brownian particle (2 \ensuremath{\mu}m diameter polystyrene sphere in water) of an infrared optical tweezer moving in a circle. For a given potential depth of the optical trap, three different regimes for the particle motion are observed as a function of the trap velocity. For small velocity of the tweezer (typically 100 \ensuremath{\mu}m/s), the particle is trapped and moves with the beam. For intermediate velocities (between 100 \ensuremath{\mu}m/s and 3 mm/s), the particle escapes but is caught by the returning trap: its mean angular velocity scales asymptotically as the inverse of the trap rotation frequency. For large tweezer velocities (g3 mm/s), the particle diffuses along the circle but is confined in the radial direction. We describe these observations by a simple deterministic model. We justify the use of this model solving the corresponding Fokker-Planck equation.
Mate preference: a possible causal mechanism for a moving hybrid zone

Abstract The study of patterns and underlying mechanisms within hybrid zones may provide insight into speciation. Black-capped ( Poecile atricapillus ; BC) and Carolina ( P. carolinensis ; CA) chickadees hybridize in an east–west band in the U.S.A. from New Jersey to Kansas. Within the past century, the Ohio portion of this hybrid zone and the CA range to the south have been moving northward while the BC range has retracted. We examined mate preference in females of both species as one possible causal mechanism for this shift. To be conservative about the nomenclature and results, the samples are referred to as either ‘BC-like’ or ‘CA-like’ due to the observed genetic introgression in the study individuals. Given a choice within an aviary setting, in the aggregate, BC-like and CA-like females that had not observed the direct social interactions between a dyad of a BC-like male and a CA-like male preferred to associate with the BC-like male. In nature, both species form within-sex dominance hierarchies. In the aviary, CA-like males dominated BC-like males unless a CA-like male was substantially smaller. Once females of both types had observed the physical interaction of a particular heterospecific dyad, they associated preferentially with the dominant male, regardless of species type. Thus, the effect of CA male intrasexual dominance on female mate preference may be contributing to the northward movement of the hybrid zone. Copyright 2003 Published by Elsevier Science Ltd on behalf of The Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour.
Interaction of adrenalectomy and fenfluramine treatment on body weight, food intake and brown adipose tissue.

Abstract Three experiments have examined the interaction of adrenalectomy and fenfluramine on food intake, body weight and the binding of guanosine-5′ diphosphate (GDP) to interscapular brown adipose tissue (IBAT). In the first experiment, GDP-binding by IBAT mitochondria from adrenalectomized or sham-operated animals was measured for 3 hr after one of 3 doses of fenfluramine. Fenfluramine stimulated GDP-binding at lower doses in the adrenalectomized animals than in the controls. In the first chronic experiment, adrenalectomy prevented the restoration of normal food intake observed 8–10 days after the beginning of fenfluramine treatment. Adrenalectomy also increased weight loss and enhanced GDP binding to mitochondria from IBAT in rats treated with fenfluramine. In the second chronic experiment, the combination of fenfluramine and adrenalectomy led to a progressive weight loss, continuing hypophagia and stimulation of GDP-binding by IBAT, whereas rats treated with fenfluramine alone showed a recovery of food intake at a stabilized but lower body weight. These data are consistent with the hypothesis that adrenalectomy and fenfluramine disable two separate components of the food intake system and that when combined, produce a profound and persisting disturbance in energy or nutrient balance.
Predictability of seasonal runoff in the Mississippi River basin

[1] Recent advances in climate prediction and remote sensing offer the potential to improve long-lead streamflow forecasts and to provide better land surface state estimates at the time of forecast. We characterize predictability of runoff at seasonal timescales in the Mississippi River basin due to climatic persistence (represented by El Nino-Southern Oscillation and the Arctic Oscillation) and persistence related to the initial land surface state (soil moisture and snow). These climate and land surface state indicators, at varying lead times, are then used in a multiple linear regression to explain the variance of seasonal average runoff. Soil moisture dominates runoff predictability for lead times of 1 1/2 months, except in summer in the western part of the basin, where snow dominates. For the western part of the basin, the land surface state has a stronger predictive capability than climate indicators through leads of two seasons; climate indicators are more important in the east at lead times of one season or greater. Modest winter runoff predictability exists at a lead time of 3 seasons due to both climate and soil moisture, but this is in areas producing little runoff and is therefore of lessened importance. Local summer runoff predictability is limited to the western mountainous areas (generating high runoff) through a lead of 2 seasons. This could be useful to water managers in the western portion of the Mississippi River basin, because it suggests the potential to provide skillful forecast information earlier in the water year than currently used in operational forecasts.
Wolbachia , sex ratio bias and apparent male killing in the harlequin beetle riding pseudoscorpion

Bacterial endosymbionts that manipulate host reproduction are now known to be widespread in insects and other arthropods. Since they inhabit the cytoplasm and are maternally inherited, these microorganisms can enhance their fitness by biasing host sex ratio in favour of females. At its most extreme, sex ratio manipulation may be achieved by killing male embryos, as occurs in a number of insect species. Here, we provide evidence for the first case of male killing by a tetracycline-sensitive microbe in pseudoscorpions. Using a combination of inheritance studies, antibiotic treatment and molecular assays, we show that a new strain of Wolbachia is associated with extreme female bias in the pseudoscorpion, Cordylochernes scorpioides. In a highly female-biased line, sex ratio distortion was maternally inherited, and occurred in conjunction with a high rate of spontaneous abortion and low reproductive success. Antibiotic treatment cured females of the Wolbachia infection, restored offspring sex ratio to 1:1, and significantly enhanced female reproductive success. The discovery of apparent male-killing in C. scorpioides is of interest because pseudoscorpions are viviparous. Theory predicts that male killing should be favoured, if male death enhances the fitness of infected female siblings. In a live-bearing host, reallocation of maternal resources from dead male embryos to their sisters provides a direct, physiological mechanism through which fitness compensation could favour male killing by cellular endosymbionts. Our results suggest, however, that fitness compensation and the spread of male-killing endosymbionts may be undermined by a high rate of spontaneous abortion in infected females of this viviparous arthropod.
Atomic Clocks and Variations of the Fine Structure Constant

We describe a new test for possible variations of the fine structure constant alpha by comparisons of rates between clocks based on hyperfine transitions in alkali atoms with different atomic number Z. H-maser, Cs, and Hg(+) clocks have a different dependence on alpha via relativistic contributions of order (Z-alpha)(sup 2). Recent H-maser vs Hg(+) clock comparison data improve laboratory limits on a time variation by 100-fold to give dot-alpha less than or equal to 3.7 x 10(exp -14)/yr. Future laser cooled clocks (Be(+), Rb, Cs, Hg(+), etc.), when compared, will yield the most sensitive of all tests for dot-alpha/alpha.
Water diffusion in silica film during silicon wet oxidation

Water diffusion in silica glass is explained in terms of the migration of molecular water and its reaction with the silica network to form immobile hydroxyl water. It is assumed that the reaction is fast at high temperatures, and a local reaction equilibrium is maintained during water diffusion. While this mechanism appears to explain water diffusion in silica glasses determined from hydroxyl profiles reasonably well, we found that water diffusion-promoted phenomena, such as the oxidation of silicon, require a small quantity of molecular water diffusing into silica glasses ahead of the hydroxyl diffusion front, unrestricted by the local equilibrium. This was demonstrated by studying oxidation kinetics of silicon with a thick (∼15 μm) oxide layer and measuring the delay time before the steady-state oxidation.
Failure of a secretion feedback loop in the Zollinger-Ellison syndrome? The “gastric factor” revisited

The effect of exogenous secretin on serum gastrin levels in the Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is examined. The physiologic expectation of decreased gastrin levels was not observed in the case reported, nor has any initial decrease in gastrin levels with exogenous secretin been noted in 11 other reported patients similarly studied. This suggests that the secretin negative feedback loop is interrupted in the Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. In the pathogenesis of the syndrome, observations are interpreted as supporting the existence of a gastric factor, acting primarily or secondarily on the feedback mechanism.
The standard and anomalous crystal-field spectra of Eu3+

Abstract The crystal-field (CF) spectra of Eu3+ in various inorganic crystalline phases are summarized based on previous investigations. A majority of experimental results can be well interpreted using a standard CF model. However, there are cases in which the spectroscopic properties and fluorescence dynamics of Eu3+ cannot be interpreted within the framework of the standard model. A particularly interesting system is Eu3+ doped into microcrystals of a charge-unbalanced host such as BaFCl. For Eu3+:BaFCl, one Eu3+ site (Site I) exhibits normal CF splitting and its energy levels and fluorescence intensity are similar to most other normal systems ever reported. A standard CF fitting has been performed for Site I. However, Eu3+ at a distorted site (Site II) is of anomalous fluorescence dynamics and CF splitting which are significantly different from those of Site I. In the metastable state of 5D0, Eu3+ ions at Site II also exhibit unusual temperature-dependent lifetime.
Sensitivity of Surface-Plasmon Dispersion and Damping to Potential Barrier Shape

I have evaluated exactly the random-phase-approximation surface-plasmon linear dispersion coefficient, $\ensuremath{\alpha}={\ensuremath{\alpha}}_{1}+i{\ensuremath{\alpha}}_{2}\ensuremath{\equiv}limit of\text{}{q}^{\ensuremath{-}1}[\frac{{\ensuremath{\omega}}_{s}(q)}{{\ensuremath{\omega}}_{s}(0)\ensuremath{-}1}\text{as}q\ensuremath{\rightarrow}0]$ for $2l~{r}_{s}l~6$, using self-consistent (Lang-Kohn) potential barriers, and also using model barriers of adjustable surface diffuseness, $a$. I find $\ensuremath{\alpha}$ to be markedly sensitive to $a$, casting doubt on the reliability of using non-self-consistent model barriers to determine surface-plasmon properties. At Al density (${r}_{s}\ensuremath{\simeq}2$), for example, I find $\ensuremath{\alpha}=\ensuremath{-}(0.24+0.57i)$ \AA{} using the Lang-Kohn potential, in contrast to Beck and Celli's step-function ($a=0$) barrier result, $\ensuremath{\alpha}=\ensuremath{-}(0.07+0.2i)$ \AA{}.
Microkinetic modeling of lean NOx trap chemistry

A microkinetic chemical reaction mechanism capable of describing both the storage and regeneration processes in a fully formulated lean NOx trap is presented. The mechanism includes steps occurring on the precious metal, NOx storage, and oxygen storage sites of the catalyst. The complete reaction set is used with a transient plug flow reactor code (including boundary layer mass transfer) to simulate not only storage/regeneration cycles with a CO/H2 reductant, but also steady flow temperature sweep experiments that were previously analyzed with just a precious metal mechanism and a simpler steady state code. The results imply that NOx storage was not negligible during some of the temperature ramps, necessitating a re-evaluation of the precious metal kinetic parameters. The parameters for the entire mechanism are inferred by finding the best overall fit to the complete set of experiments. Rigorous thermodynamic consistency is enforced for parallel reaction pathways and with respect to known data for all gas phase species. It is found that nearly all of the basic experimental observations can be reproduced with the transient simulations.
Aggregates of acetylcholinesterase induced by acetylcholine receptor-aggregating factor.

Basal lamina-rich extracts of Torpedo californica electric organ contain a factor that causes acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) on cultured myotubes to aggregate into patches1–3. Our previous studies have indicated that the active component of these extracts is similar to the molecules in the basal lamina which direct the aggregation of AChRs in the muscle fibre plasma membrane at regenerating neuromuscular junctions in vivo2,4,5. Because it can be obtained in large amounts and assayed in controlled conditions in cell culture, the AChR-aggregating factor from electric organ may be especially useful for examining in detail how the postsynaptic apparatus of regenerating muscle is assembled. Here we demonstrate that the electric organ factor causes not only the formation of AChR aggregates on cultured myotubes, but also the formation of patches of acetylcholinesterase (AChE). This finding, together with the observation that basal lamina directs the formation of both AChR and AChE aggregates at regenerating neuromuscular junctions in vivo6, leads us to hypothesize that a single component of the synaptic basal lamina causes the formation of both these synaptic specializations on regenerating myofibres.
A new type of insect pathogen in larvae of the clover cutworm, Scotogramma trifolii☆

Abstract A unique type of microorganism has been found causing an unusual disease in larvae of the clover cutworm, Scotogramma trifolii (Lepidoptera; Noctuidae). The organism contains DNA and reproduces exclusively by self-assembly forming enveloped reniform/bacilliform particles which measure 170 × 450 nm in negatively stained preparations. During initial stages of development, the organism apparently reproduces primarily within vesicles in the cytoplasm of a variety of cell types including hemocytes, and epidermal, fat body, and tracheal matrix cells. Most reproduction, however, occurs in vesicles that circulate in the hemolymph. These vesicles, most of which are derived from host cells, measure 2–10 μm in diameter, are highly refractile, reach populations as high as 108/ml of hemolymph, and are diagnostic for the disease. The pathology caused by this organism, its shape and ultrastructure, and reproduction within vesicles indicate it is either a peculiar type of rickettsia, possibly related to those of the genus Rickettsiella, or a new type of invertebrate virus. Among its unusual features are its ability to induce the formation of reproductive vesicles from host cell components, and its apparent control of de novo ribosome and membrane synthesis within these vesicles as it develops. The possible relationship of this organism to baculoviruses and rickettsia is discussed.
Heat transfer in thin silicon film melting by laser line sources

Abstract Optical melting and recrystallization of thin semiconductor films on amorphous insulators is of importance to semiconductor technology since it can lead to the development of high speed electronic devices. The degree of improvement is affected by the rates of melting and recrystallization. To control these aspects, it is necessary to analyze the heat transfer in both the silicon layer and the insulating substrate. This paper describes numerical predictions based upon an enthalpy approach. The numerical predictions are compared to a limited set of experimental data.
Hey doc, is that your stethoscope?: increasing engagement in medical education and training with iPads

Our interest is in increasing the quality of medical education and training. Developments in hardware and software (e.g., Apps) have the potential to enhance medical education and training through the use of simulations, animations, immediate communication of results, and so forth. It is essential, however, that changes to curriculum be data driven and evidence-based. We employed behavioral observation with shadowing and structured interviews to gather the data reported here. Audiotapes were transcribed and content analyzed. Results reveal three primary areas of iPad use: patient focused, professional focused, and education focused. Within each area residents commented on the iPad's current use, limitations, and future (potential) uses. Chi-square tests revealed significant differences within areas and across usage type. The present findings are the first from a multiyear study examining factors related to enhancing medical education and training.
Transition to Adulthood: Mental Retardation, Families, and Culture

Abstract A conceptual model was proposed guiding a study of mental retardation and family well-being during the transition from late adolescence into young adulthood. The developmental period from about age 18 to 26 is critical, in that formal schooling ends and changes in residential, vocational, and social status are likely. Furthermore, the proposal was made that the success of transitional experiences in these three realms will influence family well-being, an outcome of primary interest at this stage of the lifecycle of the family. Individual characteristics, environment and culture, and family involvement with programs are hypothesized to influence family well-being, but primarily through their impact on transition success.
Brownfields Redevelopment, Preferences and Public Involvement: A Case Study of an Ethnically Mixed Neighbourhood

A survey was conducted with over 200 residents of a largely Hispanic census tract in the City of Perth Amboy, NJ, in order to identify their preferences for brownfield redevelopment and the extent to which residents want to participate in the redevelopment process. We found that residents preferred recreation, cultural and other community facilities, followed by new housing. They were less interested in industry and business. Three-quarters of respondents indicated a desire to participate in the redevelopment process. Those who were most interested in participation tended to be optimistic, less trusting of authority, distressed by brownfields and focused on providing opportunities for youth. In light of the fact that US brownfields redevelopment has been promoted as a way to bring industry and commerce back to inner-city neighbourhoods, the findings of this study imply that local government and business interests need to work closely with local communities to build support for commercial land uses. Altern...
Dispatched Homolog 2 is targeted by miR-214 through a combination of three weak microRNA recognition sites

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate gene expression by inhibiting translation of target mRNAs through pairing with miRNA recognition elements (MREs), usually in 3′ UTRs. Because pairing is imperfect, identification of bona fide mRNA targets presents a challenge. Most target recognition algorithms strongly emphasize pairing between nucleotides 2–8 of the miRNA (the ‘seed’ sequence) and the mRNA but adjacent sequences and the local context of the 3′ UTR also affect targeting. Here, we show that dispatched 2 is a target of miR-214. In zebrafish, dispatched 2 is expressed in the telencephalon and ventral hindbrain and is essential for normal zebrafish development. Regulation of dispatched 2 by miR-214 is via pairing with three, noncanonical, weak MREs. By comparing the repression capacity of GFP reporters containing different dispatched 2 sequences, we found that a combination of weak sites, which lack canonical seed pairing, can effectively target an mRNA for silencing. This finding underscores the challenge that prediction algorithms face and emphasizes the need to experimentally validate predicted MREs.
Systematic Identification of Freeway Bottlenecks

The algorithm presented identifies bottleneck locations, the times for which each bottleneck is active, and the delay they cause. The bottlenecks are ranked in terms of their frequency of recurrence and the magnitude of their delay impact. The algorithm works with 5-min loop detector data. It uses speed difference as an indicator of bottleneck activation. The algorithm is applied to 3 months of data from 270 mi of seven freeways in San Diego. It identifies 160 locations whose bottlenecks cause 64% of the total delay on these freeways. The top 10 account for 61% of the delay from all bottlenecks. The method can be used in any area in which large amounts of data are available. Transportation authorities may use it to identify bottlenecks and to track their impact over time.
Estimation of Fatigue Life Using Ultrasonic Sensing: A Symbolic Dynamics Approach

The paper addresses the issues of diagnosis and prognosis of fatigue failure in mechanical systems using symbolic time series analysis (STSA) of ultrasonic sensor data. Specifically, the paper presents a statistical analysis procedure for online estimation of remaining fatigue life in polycrystalline alloys using STSA-based information from an ensemble of fatigue experiments. This real-time information is useful for monitoring the evolving fatigue damage and life extending control of mechanical structures for prevention of widespread failures. The concept is experimentally validated on 7075-T6 aluminum alloy specimens on a special-purpose fatigue test apparatus that is equipped with ultrasonic flaw detectors and an optical travelling microscope.
Diversity of bathyal macrofauna on the northeastern Pacific margin: the influence of methane seeps and oxygen minimum zones

The upper continental slope in the northeastern Pacific Ocean is intercepted by a deep oxygen minimum zone (OMZ; 650‐1100 m) and punctuated by conduits of methane seepage. We examined the effects of these two dominant sources of heterogeneity on the density, composition and diversity of heterotrophic macrofauna off Hydrate Ridge, Oregon (OR; 800 m water depth), where the seeps co-occur within an OMZ, and off the Eel River, Northern California (CA; 500 m), where seeps are overlain by better oxygenated waters. We hypothesized that seeps (containing clam beds and microbial mats) should contribute a suite of distinct species to the regional margin species pool but that OMZ-associated hypoxia would dampen seep-related heterogeneity. Macrofaunal densities were highest (23,000‐33,510 indAEm )2 ) in the CA seep sediments and in the OR near-seep samples, intermediate in the OR seep, CA near seep and CA and OR 500-m margin sediments (10,054‐ 19,777 indAEm )2 ), and lowest in the CA and OR OMZ habitats at 800 m (4269‐ 7847 indAEm )2 ). Annelids constituted over 50% of the taxa in all but the CA clam bed and OR microbial mat sediments, where mollusks were abundant. Approximately 50% of seep species appeared to be habitat endemic; species present in microbial mats largely formed a subset of those present in the clam beds. Dorvilleid and ampharetid polychaetes were dominant in the seep sediments; non-seep margin sediments at 500 and 800 m were populated heavily by branchiate polychaetes including cossurids and paraonids. Alpha diversity (Es[20] calculated per core) was lowest and rank 1 dominance was highest in the CA and OR microbial mat habitats. Pooled analyses of Es[100] revealed highest species richness in the CA clam bed and near-seep habitats (30.3 and 29.6, respectively), and lowest species richness in the OR microbial mat and near-seep habitats (16.5 and 17.9, respectively). Nonseep sediments (500 and 800 m) off both CA and OR were more homogeneous (55‐57% within-habitat similarity) than clam bed and microbial mat sediments (only 32‐37% within-habitat similarity). CA sediment macrofauna generally exhibit higher alpha diversity, and as habitats are combined, a higher rate of increase in the slope of the species accumulation curves than do OR margin macrofauna. Methane seeps in the NE Pacific introduce significant heterogeneity that increases margin biodiversity at multiple spatial scales. However, our hypothesis that the OMZ would lessen the seep contributions to diversity was not supported. The better oxygenated CA seeps at 500 m shared more of the background margin fauna (at 500 m) than did the OR seeps at 800 m (with OMZ fauna at 800 m). Geographical differences in the fluxes of methane-rich fluids and the increased reliance on chemosynthetic food sources with increased depth could explain these results.
Correlation of PDN impedance with jitter and voltage margin for high speed channels

Timing margin (jitter) and voltage margin (noise) are the main bottlenecks in the performance of high speed digital channels. The simultaneous switching noise (SSN) induced by the return path discontinuities such as signal via transitions and plane cutouts is a major source of jitter and noise introduced by the package and the printed circuit boards on the signal interconnects of these channels. In this paper, we present a new methodology to correlate SSN induced signal jitter and noise with the power distribution network (PDN) impedance by studying the exact mechanism of how the PDN impedance affects signal jitter and voltage margin. Further, we validate the analysis by both simulations and measurements and suggest design practices to reduce jitter and noise on the signal.
Immunocytochemical evidence for PDBu-induced activation of RhoA/ROCK in human internal anal sphincter smooth muscle cells.

Studies were performed to determine the unknown status of PKC and RhoA/ROCK in the phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate (PDBu)-stimulated state in the human internal anal sphincter (IAS) smooth muscle cells (S...
TRADE-OFFS IN CHOICE BETWEEN RISK AND DELAY DEPEND ON MONETARY AMOUNTS

In Experiments 1 and 2, 25 and 48 college students made binary choices between hypothetical money amounts. In Part A, choices were between small amounts available with certainty and larger amounts ($10 to $10,000) available with risk. Choices in Part B were between immediate small amounts and delayed larger amounts. As money amount grew, risk aversion and delay aversion both changed but in opposite ways: Risk aversion grew but delay aversion shrank. Part C of Experiment 1 pitted risky amounts against delayed amounts, and its results were consistent with those of Parts A and B. Equivalences of particular risks and delays depended on the particular monetary amounts to which they attached. In Experiment 3, 20 college students made binary choices between money amounts, knowing that they would actually receive some of the selections they made. In Part A, choices were between certain small amounts and risky larger amounts ($1 and $10). Choice problems in Part B were between immediate small amounts and delayed receipt of $1 or $10. The results were like those of Experiment 1, though weaker. These results argue against models of choice that posit an equivalence of risk and delay that is independent of monetary amount.
Consumer Trade-Off Analysis and Market Share Estimation for Selected Socially Responsible Product Attributes for Cotton Apparel

In light of the growing interest in socially responsible apparel consumption, this study examined the effect of fiber origin, fiber production method, and price on consumer purchase preferences for...
Characterization of sample preparation methods of NIH/3T3 fibroblasts for ToF-SIMS analysis

The information that is obtained from single cells during time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) analysis is influenced by the method that was used to prepare the cells. The removal of extracellular media before analysis is necessary, but the rinsing technique should not damage the plasma membrane of the cell. The presence of intracellular salts reduced the secondary ion yield an average of 2.6-fold during Bi3+/C60++ depth profiles. Chemical fixation followed by rinsing removed a majority of the intracellular salts, “recovering” the positive secondary ion yields. The formaldehyde-fixation process removed a majority of the intracellular Cl-, but other key anions were not removed in significant amounts. The data presented here is consistent the anion neutralization mechanism largely responsible for the lower ion yields. All of the organic secondary ions that were detected in the freeze-dried cells were also detected in the formaldehyde-fixed cells, suggesting that the fixation process did not remove any molecular species to an extent that is detectable by ToF-SIMS. Compared to freeze dried cells, well preserved, frozen-hydrated cells showed little increase, or a decreased yield, for most low mass ions, but an increased yield for larger mass fragments. This is consistent with a reduced damage cross section at cryogenic analysis temperatures, although proton donation from water and reduction the salt effects in the presence of water likely also play roles. Numerous ions detected from the frozen-hydrated cells were not detected from the freeze dried cells, however many of these ions were attributed to chemical combinations of water, salts and the ammonium acetate rinsing solution.
Autonomous sensor placement

With an increasing reliance on robotic platforms to perform scientific exploration in remote or hostile environments, it is becoming crucial that robotic systems be able to perform autonomous intelligent sensor placement as well as autonomous experimental design. Such a system requires encoding of scientific knowledge, the ability to make inferences from data, and the ability to identify the most relevant question to ask given both the instrumentpsilas prior knowledge and the issue it is designed to address. This requires implementation of two computational engines: the inference engine and the inquiry engine. Here we demonstrate our first efforts to develop intelligent instruments that rely on autonomous sensor placement.
Role of the hospital environment in disease transmission, with a focus on Clostridium difficile

Abstract Contamination of the surface environment in hospital rooms plays an important role in the transmission of several key healthcare-associated pathogens including Clostridium difficile , methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus spp. (VRE), Acinetobacter spp. and norovirus. Clostridium difficile is especially important as it is now the most common healthcare-associated pathogen in the United States. It may cause serious disease, especially in older individuals, it may survive for long periods of time in the environment and it is relatively resistant to many commonly used antiseptics and disinfectants. Evidence that the contaminated surface environment is important in the transmission of C. difficile includes the following: (1) environmental contamination is frequent in the rooms of patients with C. difficile infection (CDI), (2) the hands/gloves of healthcare personnel are as likely to become contaminated from contact with the environment as from direct contact with the patient, (3) the higher the frequency of environmental contamination, the more frequent the contamination of the hands/gloves of healthcare providers, (4) patients admitted to a room previously occupied by a patient with CDI have an increased risk of developing C. difficile infection, and (5) improved cleaning/disinfection of the environment has led to a decrease in the incidence of C. difficile transmission. Key measures to prevent C. difficile transmission and infection include antibiotic stewardship (minimising antibiotic use), placing patients with CDI on contact precautions, and proper cleaning and disinfection of the surfaces in hospital rooms daily and at discharge using a sporicidal disinfectant or a ‘no-touch' method (e.g. ultraviolet light).
Tracking Live Fish From Low-Contrast and Low-Frame-Rate Stereo Videos

Nonextractive fish abundance estimation with the aid of visual analysis has drawn increasing attention. Unstable illumination, ubiquitous noise, and low-frame-rate (LFR) video capturing in the underwater environment, however, make conventional tracking methods unreliable. In this paper, we present a multiple fish-tracking system for low-contrast and LFR stereo videos with the use of a trawl-based underwater camera system. An automatic fish segmentation algorithm overcomes the low-contrast issues by adopting a histogram backprojection approach on double local-thresholded images to ensure an accurate segmentation on the fish shape boundaries. Built upon a reliable feature-based object matching method, a multiple-target tracking algorithm via a modified Viterbi data association is proposed to overcome the poor motion continuity and frequent entrance/exit of fish targets under LFR scenarios. In addition, a computationally efficient block-matching approach performs successful stereo matching that enables an automatic fish-body tail compensation to greatly reduce segmentation error and allows for an accurate fish length measurement. Experimental results show that an effective and reliable tracking performance for multiple live fish with underwater stereo cameras is achieved.
Resource Allocation for Real-Time Tasks Using Cloud Computing

This paper presents a method to allocate resources for real-time tasks using the "Infrastructure as a Service" model offered by cloud computing. Real-time tasks have to be completed before deadlines, and cloud computing offers selection of resources with different speeds and costs. In cloud computing, resource allocations can be scaled up based on the requirements; this is called elasticity and is the key difference from existing multiprocessor task allocation. Scalable resources make economical allocation of resources an important problem. We analyze the problem of allocating resources for a set of realtime tasks such that the economic cost is minimized and all the deadlines are met. We formulate the problem as a constrained optimization problem and propose a polynomial-time solution to allocate resources efficiently. We compare the economic costs and performance provided by our solution with the optimal solution and an EDF (earliest deadline first) method. We show how the cost varies based on the distribution of the tasks.
Ion Adsorption and Ion Exchange in Ultrathin Films of Fatty Acids

Ion exchange equilibria of ultrathin Langmuir and Langmuir-Blodgett films of stearic and arachidic acids in contact with aqueous electrolyte solutions were studied experimentally and theoretically. A model considering electrochemical and thermodynamic aspects of the adsorption of protons, calcium, and cadmium ions from solution to the film has been developed. Key parameters are the binding constants (K’s) of ions and the mixing characteristics (or Flory-Huggins interaction parameters x’s) of ions in the two-dimensional film lattice plane. The ternary system can be described by the parameter values determined with binary proton-calcium ion, proton-cadmium ion, and calcium-cadmium ion systems: Kca = 2.9 x 10’’ petitive ion adsorption was measured by FTIR A TR spectroscopy of either collapsed or ordered LB films. Data for the proton-calcium-cadmium ion system agreed well with the model predictions. The results show possible future applications of such thin films as ion sensors or ion exchange materials.
Differences in Management Action Acceptability for Coyotes in a National Park

Successful wildlife management often depends on public acceptance of wildlife control methods. We explored the acceptability and amount of consensus among local residents, park staff, and visitors for coyote (Canis latrans) management in Cape Breton Highlands National Park of Canada (NPC). We collected data near Cape Breton Highlands NPC, where there has been an increase in human–coyote conflict. Local residents were mailed a questionnaire (n = 578; 72% return rate) in 2011. Park staff completed the questionnaire (n = 124; 85% return rate) during 2011 and visitors were interviewed on trails and given a mail-back questionnaire during 2011 and 2012 (n = 375; 51% return rate). The Potential for Conflict Index was used to examine differences in acceptability among the 3 groups. Acceptability of different management options was evaluated for 3 situations: 1) a coyote crossed the trail; 2) a coyote approached a person; and 3) a snarling coyote approached a person. All 3 groups tended to prefer nonlethal management options, but as the scenarios increased in threat level, lethal and more invasive options became more acceptable. Understanding which management options were more acceptable in different contexts facilitates informed decision-making when humans and coyotes come into conflict. Contrasting public(s) views against those of managers highlighted situations whereby problems might occur. © 2015 The Wildlife Society.
Transformational/charismatic leadership's tranformation of the field: An historical essay.

Abstract I use a framework by Reichers and Schneider (1990) to explore the evolution of leadership research across time. This analysis leads to development of the doom and gloom arguments about the field in the 1970s and early 1980s. Transformational and charismatic leadership is discussed as it takes off following the doom and gloom period. That takeoff is followed by revisiting the shift to transformational/charismatic leadership and considering why some of the leading and next-generation scholars set off in this new direction. I then link transformational/charismatic leadership with more traditional approaches and finish with conclusions concerning forces for change, assessing where the leadership field is currently, and providing a future assessment with some caveats. I conclude that a crucial contribution of transformational/charismatic leadership has been in terms of its rejuvenation of the leadership field, regardless of whatever content contributions it has made. This rejuvenation came about because of what most would consider a paradigm shift that has attracted numerous new scholars and moved the field as a whole out of its doldrums.
Adult Obesity and Arthritis: An Empirical Analysis for West Virginia, USA

The relationship between obesity and arthritis remains unclear. Arthritis shows an increasing trend with increasing body weights [11]. West Virginia reports high obesity levels. This study attempts to examine the impacts of obesity on arthritis and to estimate the cost of arthritis linked to obesity in West Virginia. Data collected from Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) for 2001 and 2009 are used for the analysis [24; 25]. A system of simultaneous equations and a Logit analysis are used as estimation methods. The results reveal significant impacts of obesity on arthritis, and the impacts of employment and income growth on obesity and arthritis. The estimated total economic cost of arthritis linked to obesity is $200 million for West Virginia. As the obesity rate is in an increasing trend, reducing the costs of arthritis needs mitigating obesity. The study highlights the need for a comprehensive policy alternative in West Virginia.
Gastric lipid islands.

54-year-old woman presented with a 2- to 3-week history of epigastric pain and discomfort. The patient’s past medical history was unremarkable except for chronic alcoholism. The physical examination was nonrevealing and an esophagogastroduodenoscopy was performed. The fundic gastric mucosa appeared erythematous, although there was no evidence of erosion or ulcer. A 0.4-cm, yellow, villiform mucosal nodule was seen in the antrum. A biopsy of this nodule was taken for histopathologic examination. Routine hematoxylin-eosin‐stained sections revealed subepithelial aggregates of foam cells within the lamina propria without associated leukocytic infiltrate (Figure 1). The overlying epithelium was unremarkable. The foam cells were oval to polygonal with a moderate amount of cytoplasm and central to eccentric small nuclei (Figure 2). No evidence of mitotic activity was seen. The foam cells expressed CD68 but were negative for mucicarmine and periodic acid‐Schiff (with diastase) stains and did not express cytokeratin. Stains for fungi and acid-fast bacilli were also negative. Xanthelasma or xanthoma is a localized collection of tissue histiocytes or macrophages containing lipid. They are usually encountered in the skin and subcutis, presenting as visceral aggregates of foamy macrophages unassociated with inflammation or hemorrhage. They are not commonly seen in the gastrointestinal tract. When present, they occur almost exclusively in the stomach. Gastric xanthelasma, also known as lipid islands, was observed in 0.4% of patients who had not undergone gastric resections. 1 They are usually antral and at the lesser curvature, but occasionally are located in the body or fundus and may be multiple. They are uncommon in other parts of the gastrointestinal tract, but can be found in the small intestine, esophagus, and large intestine. The etiology of lipid islands has not yet been established. It is generally agreed that lipid islands are not found in the healthy stomach, occurring only when pathologic changes, such as chronic gastritis, intestinal metaplasia, atrophic gastritis, gastric ulcer, or changes caused by bile reflux or partial gastrectomy are present. Autopsy studies have shown that lipid islands are more common
Neural Correlates of Gender, Culture, and Race and Implications to Embodied Thinking in Mathematics

In this chapter, I discuss neuroscience research and selected findings that are relevant to mathematics education. What does it mean, for example, to engage in a neuroscientific analysis of symbol reference? I also discuss various research programs in neuroscience that have useful implications in mathematics education research. Further, I provide samples of studies conducted within and outside mathematics education that provide a neural grounding of gender, culture, and race. The chapter closes with three brief implications of neuroscientific work in mathematics education research, in general, and in individual- and intentional-embodied cognition in mathematical thinking and learning, in particular.
Free Trade Against Free Riders

The US is using free trade agreements to address the global free rider problem in pharmaceutical R&D. This brief article outlines several objections to that approach.
Data Security

Misuse of information contained in computers and actual theft via computers is on the increase. This is due to growing sophistication in data communications as well as better understanding of computers by more people. As more and more important information is contained in computers, the need to protect this information grows. The reason for this is because as the amount of available information accessiable via computers increases, computer thiefs will find a more lucrative field.
Morphological Expression of the Coherence and Relative Phase of Optical Inputs to the Photoelectrodeposition of Nanopatterned Se–Te Films

Highly anisotropic and ordered nanoscale lamellar morphologies can be spontaneously generated over macroscopic areas, without the use of a photomask or any templating agents, via the photoelectrodeposition of Se–Te alloy films. To form such structures, the light source can be a single, linearly polarized light source that need not necessarily be highly coherent. In this work, the variation in the morphologies produced by this deposition process was evaluated in response to differences in the coherence and relative phase between multiple simultaneous linearly polarized illumination inputs. Specifically, the morphologies of photoelectrodeposits were evaluated when two tandem same-wavelength sources with discrete linear polarizations, both either mutually incoherent or mutually coherent (with defined phase differences), were used. Additionally, morphologies were simulated via computer modeling of the interfacial light scattering and absorption during the photoelectrochemical growth process. The morphologies ...
Interactive teaching, medical students, and substance abuse : university and community come together in a new endeavor.

The authors present an innovative approach for providing freshman and sophomore medical students with their initial exposure to the problems of alcohol and other drug abuse. Students in small interactive group seminars teach each other about the major areas of substance abuse: treatment, prevention/education, research, and law enforcement. They are aided by group moderators, by resource professionals, and by recovery teachers as they make field trips, attend 12-step meetings, and get background material. They utilize audiovisuals, role-plays, and programmed patients in a report/debate format. Effects of this seminar on their attitudes have been measured and are presented.
Probing the structures of gold-aluminum alloy clusters AuxAly(-): a joint experimental and theoretical study.

Besides the size and structure, compositions can also dramatically affect the properties of alloy nanoclusters. Due to the added degrees of freedom, determination of the global minimum structures for multi-component nanoclusters poses even greater challenges, both experimentally and theoretically. Here we report a systematic and joint experimental/theoretical study of a series of gold–aluminum alloy clusters, AuxAly− (x + y = 7,8), with various compositions (x = 1–3; y = 4–7). Well-resolved photoelectron spectra have been obtained for these clusters at different photon energies. Basin-hopping global searches, coupled with density functional theory calculations, are used to identify low-lying structures of the bimetallic clusters. By comparing computed electronic densities of states of the low-lying isomers with the experimental photoelectron spectra, the global minima are determined. It is found that for y ≥ 6 there is a strong tendency to form the magic-number square bi-pyramid motif of Al6− in the AuxAly− clusters, suggesting that the Al–Al interaction dominates the Au–Au interaction in the mixed clusters. A closely related trend is that for x > 1, the gold atoms tend to be separated by Al atoms unless only the magic-number Al6− square bi-pyramid motif is present, suggesting that in the small-sized mixed clusters, Al and Au components do not completely mix with one another. Overall, the Al component appears to play a more dominant role due to the high robustness of the magic-number Al6− square bi-pyramid motif, whereas the Au component tends to be either “adsorbed” onto the Al6− square bi-pyramid motif if y ≥ 6, or stays away from one another if x < y < 6.
Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophies

The phenotype in limb-girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD) type 21 was defined by mutation analysis, protein studies, and respiratory and cardiac involvement studied in 16 patients from 14 families with fukutin-related protein (FKRP) gene mutations and LGMD, at the Institute of Human Genetics, University Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
The use of radon seeds to produce deep cerebral lesions.

Summary1. Stereotaxically placed radon seeds in the brains of monkeys produced well controlled lesions suitable for studying certain aspects of cerebral physiology. 2. The technic described, which requires only a minor surgical procedure, should be considered for producing deep lesions and for attacking deep tumors in the human brain.