cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Climate impacts on extreme ice-jam events in Canadian rivers

Abstract River ice jams can produce extreme flood events with major social, economic and ecological impacts throughout Canada. Ice breakup and jamming processes are briefly reviewed and shown to be governed by the flow hydrograph, the thickness and strength of the winter ice cover, and the stream morphology. These factors are directly or indirectly influenced by weather conditions which implies potential impacts of climate change and variability on the severity of ice-jamming. Relevant work has to date focused on simple measures of climatic effects, such as the timing of freeze-up and breakup, and indicates trends that are consistent with concomitant changes in air temperature. More recently, it has been found that increased incidence of mid-winter breakup events and higher freshet flows in certain parts of Canada could enhance the frequency and severity of ice jams. Possible future trends under climate warming scenarios are discussed and associated impacts identified in a general manner.
A history of alternative reinforcement reduces stimulus generalization of ethanol-seeking in a rat recovery model.

Abstract Background Longer periods of recovery reduce the likelihood of relapse, which may be due to a reduced ability of various stimuli to occasion alcohol or drug seeking. However, this hypothesis remains largely uninvestigated. Methods Here we assessed the ability of intermediate stimuli to occasion responding for ethanol in rats trained to discriminate an 8 kHz tone signaling a food fixed-ratio (FR) of 5 and an ethanol FR5, from a 16 kHz tone signaling a food FR150 and ethanol FR5. In the presence of the 8 kHz tone responding for food predominates, and in the presence of the 16 kHz tone, responding for ethanol predominates. Results In the context of alternation between these conditions, varying the tone from 8 to 16 kHz produces a graded increase in ethanol (versus food) responding, consistent with a stimulus generalization function. A recent history of responding under food-predominant choice conditions, either during the test session or in the four sessions that precede it shifts the generalization function downwards. Extending this history to nine sessions shifts the curve further downwards. The stimulus generalization function was similar in a separate group, trained with different relative ratios for food and ethanol, but with similar behavioral allocation under each discriminative stimulus. Finally, withholding access to food and ethanol for 4 or 16 sessions did not affect the stimulus generalization gradient. Conclusion These results suggest that longer histories of reinforced alternative behavior might reduce the likelihood of relapse by decreasing the control exerted over alcohol- or drug-seeking by stimuli similar to those that previously occasioned alcohol- or drug-seeking.
H2O adsorption on Fe: Disorder and beam effects

Abstract The influence of surface damage on H 2 O adsorption on Fe was examined for exposures up to 700 L using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Auger electron spectroscopy (AES). In contrast to earlier measurements, the results did not show that the ability of H 2 O to form a sub-monolayer protective layer was destroyed by the presence of surface damage created by ion sputtering. The current results in combination with published data indicate that the presence of this semi-protective layer is independent of surface structure. An electron beam was found to cause an enhanced oxidation and breakdown of this protective or “passive” film.
Heidegger and Philosophical Modernism

Pippin's accusation that Heidegger's account of modernity and the History of Being are pre‐Critical or dogmatic can be rebutted by understanding Heidegger's later writings more thoroughly in terms of his earlier and by requiring Heidegger to modify the texture, though not the philosophy, of his narrative. Heidegger's thesis that epochal transitions in the History of Being are contingent and inexplicable can be rendered consistent with Critical epistemology, whose central thrust is to deny the Myth of the Given, by understanding the inexplicability involved to be rational inexplicability, not hermeneutic. To explain this suggestion, it is necessary to turn to some of the conceptual resources of Being and Time. The History of Being can thus be seen as both hermeneutically intelligible and contingent. For this to be possible, however, Heidegger's tendency to present that History as a series of monolithic shifts that cannot be bridged by any account of the motivations that drive history forward must be resist...
Neurogenesis or neuronal specification: phosphorylation strikes again!

How basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factors control neurogenesis and neuronal subtype specification through transcriptional mechanisms mediated by cell signaling remains to be fully elucidated. In this issue of Neuron , Ma et al. discover that phosphorylation via GSK3 of the bHLH factor, Ngn2 (Neurog2), adds a neuronal subtype-specific program to its functional repertoire that is activated in the developing neural tube in vivo.
Mechanistic Investigation of Heterogeneous Catalysis by Transient Infrared Methods

This paper provides an overview of the use of various transient infrared methods to determine the role of infrared observable species in the mechanisms of the NO–CO reaction, heterogeneous ethylene hydroformylation, and photocatalytic oxidation of ethanol. The transient infrared methods with a judicious choice of ways in changing the concentration of reactants and their isotope counterparts produce responses, allowing (i) identification of the spectators, (ii) determination of active adsorbed species, and (iii) verification of kinetic models and their parameters. The method has also been recently extended to monitor infrared absorbance of photogenerated electrons during photocatalysis, correlating variation in the concentration of photogenerated electrons and adsorbed species. The specific discussion focuses on limitations of the approaches and the type of mechanistic information that can be obtained.
A CRITERION TO EVALUATE THE INDIVIDUAL RAW‐TO‐SCALE EQUATING CONVERSIONS

In this study we investigated when an equating conversion line is problematic in terms of gaps and clumps. We suggest using the conditional standard error of measurement (CSEM) to measure the scale scores that are inappropriate in the overall raw-to-scale transformation.
Modeling within-plant distribution of Heliothis spp. (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) damage in cotton☆

Abstract A Heliothis spp. damage submodel was developed to provide a means of integrating a Heliothis spp. population model with the cotton crop simulation model, GOSSYM. This submodel calculates the number of fruit damaged by the larval population and distributes the damage within the simulated cotton plant. The distribution of the damage is weighted based on the age of the larva causing the damage. Integrating a Heliothis spp. population model with GOSSYM will allow assessment of the effect of larval damage on plant growth and yield.
Animal usage in vaccine development and production: maximising results while minimizing use

Abstract The Third International Symposium on Advancing Science and Elimination of the Use of Laboratory Animals for Development and Control of Vaccines and Hormones, organized by the National Institute of Public Health and the Environment (RIVM, The Netherlands) under the auspices of the International Association for Biologicals (IABS), was held in Utrecht, The Netherlands, 12–14 November 2001.
Generating stressed speech from neutral speech using a modified CELP vocoder

Abstract The problem of speech modeling for generating stressed speech using a source generator framework is addressed in this paper. In general, stress in this context refers to emotional or task induced speaking conditions. Throughout this particular study, the focus will be limited to speech under angry, loud and Lombard effect (i.e., speech produced in noise) speaking conditions. Source generator theory was originally developed for equalization of speech under stress for robust recognition (Hansen, 1993, 1994). It was later used for simulated stressed training token generation for improved recognition (Bou-Ghazale, 1993; Bou-Ghazale and Hansen, 1994). The objective here is to generate stressed perturbed speech from neutral speech using a source generator framework previously employed for stressed speech recognition. The approach is based on (i) developing a mathematical model that provides a means for representing the change in speech production under stressed conditions for perturbation, and (ii) employing this framework in an isolated word speech processing system to produce emotional/stressed perturbed speech from neutral speech. A stress perturbation algorithm is formulated based on a CELP (code-excited linear prediction) speech synthesis structure. The algorithm is evaluated using four different speech feature perturbation sets. The stressed speech parameter evaluations from this study revealed that pitch is capable of reflecting the emotional state of the speaker, while formant information alone is not as good a correlate of stress. However, the combination of formant location, pitch and gain information proved to be the most reliable indicator of emotional stress under a CELP speech model. Results from formal listener evaluations of the generated stressed speech show successful classification rates of 87% for angry speech, 75% for Lombard effect speech and 92% for loud speech.
Recent changes in particle data group tau listings

The tau listings in the 1996 Review of Particle Physics have significantly changed from the previous edition. The changes have been motivated by measurements of many new tau branching fractions and precise new measurements of many other tau branching fractions. This paper reviews some recent trends in measurements of tau lepton properties and changes in the tau listings including decay mode notation and the constrained fit to branching fractions. The new data have significantly reduced several inconsistencies in tau branching fraction data that have existed for a number of years.
Effects of prostaglandins on adrenal steroidogenesis in the rat

Abstract To elucidate the role of prostaglandins in adrenal steroidogenesis, we studied aldosterone and corticosterone responses to 3 × 10 −8 M – 3 × 10 −4 M of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α), prostacyclin (PGI2), and arachidonic acid (AA) in collagenase dispersed rat adrenal capsular and decapsular cells. Whereas adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) and angiotensin II (AII) stimulated aldosterone production in capsular cells and ACTH stimulated corticosterone production in decapsular cells in a dose dependent fashion, aldosterone and corticosterone production were not stimulated significantly by PGE2, PGF2α, PGI2, and AA. Although preincubation of dispersed adrenal cells with indomethacin ( 3 × 10 −5 M ) markedly inhibited PGE2 synthesis, ACTH- and AII-stimulated aldosterone production and ACTH-stimulated corticosterone production were not attenuated despite prostaglandin blockade. These results indicate that prostaglandins are unlikely to play an important role in adrenal steroidogenesis.
Microwave boundary conditions on the atmosphere and clouds of Venus.

The dielectric properties of H2O/H2SO4 mixtures are deduced from the Debye equations and, for a well-mixed atmosphere, the structure of H2O and H2O/H2SO4 clouds is calculated. Various data on the planet together set an upper limit on the mixing ratio by number for H2O of about 0.001 in the lower Venus atmosphere, and for H2SO4 of about 0.00001. The polarization value of the real part of the refractive index of the clouds, the spectroscopic limits on the abundance of water vapor above the clouds, and the microwave data together set corresponding upper limits on H2O of approximately 0.0002 and on H2SO4 of approximately 0.000009. Upper limits on the surface density of total cloud constituents and of cloud liquid water are, respectively, about 0.1 g/sq cm and about 0.01 g/sq cm. The infrared opacities of 90 bars of CO2, together with the derived upper limits to the amounts of water vapor and liquid H2O/H2SO4, may be sufficient to explain the high surface temperatures through the greenhouse effect.
Anaphylaxis in Mice with Fragments of Rabbit Antibody

AT present there is much interest in the relationship between the sensitizing capacity of antibodies and their affinity for tissues. Ovary and Karush1 found that univalent fractions I and II (FI, FII) obtained from purified rabbit anti-haptene antibody by papain digestion were unable to sensitize the guinea pig for direct passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PGA) or reversed PCA. They postulated that the site necessary for the fixation of antibody to guinea pig tissues was not present on fractions I and II but was carried by fraction III. Reversed PCA could be produced with F III and horse anti-rabbit globulin. Ishizaka et al.2 stated that pepsin-digested rabbit globulin, which presumably lacks fraction III, would not induce inflammatory reactions in guinea pig skin and would not fix complement. Taranta and Franklin3 also found that pepsin-digested antibody did not fix guinea pig complement in vitro. It seemed of interest to us to test papain and pepsin digesteo fragments of rabbit γ-globulin in a system in which tissue fixation of antibody does not seem to play a part, namely, anaphylaxis in the mouse. In this species maximal incidence of anaphylaxis with rabbit antibody can be obtained by injecting antibody and antigen intravenously in rapid succession4.
Band-Shape Analysis of Delayed Slow-Passage ODMR in the Photoexcited Triplet State of Tryptophan

Delayed slow passage optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR) band shapes of the triplet state of tryptophan, lysyl-tryptophanyl-lysine, N-acetyl tryptophanamide, and ribonuclease T1 from A. oryzae (RNaseT1) in low-temperature aqueous glass are analyzed using data obtained from independent microwave-induced delayed phosphorescence (MIDP) measurements as fixed input parameters. This method which uses only the band center frequency, Gaussian width, overall amplitude, and baseline position as variables is compared with a previously employed empirical analysis (Wu, J. Q.; Ozarowski, A.; Davis, S. K.; Maki, A. H. J. Phys. Chem. 1996, 100, 11496) that requires many more variables. Comparable quality of fit is found for the new, more rigorous method for each band except for the Tx ↔ Tz (D−E) ODMR transition which (with the exception of RNaseT1) deviates systematically when using the fixed kinetic parameters. The quality of fit of this band becomes comparable to that of the multiparameter empirical method upo...
Development of anisotropy in the incremental shear moduli for rock undergoing inelastic deformation

Abstract New experimental data on the evolution of two incremental shear moduli have been obtained for rock undergoing inelastic deformation. Changes in the incremental shear moduli during increasing axial straining probably reflect the development of a deformation-induced, anisotropic fabric resulting from accumulation of oriented damage. These incremental moduli occupy a prominent position in a constitutive equation for the plane deformation of inelastic solids that has evolved over nearly 30 years to include pressure-sensitivity, compressibility and plastic non-normality. This equation is often used in analyses of strain localization. One of the moduli, G, governs shearing parallel to the coordinate axes, and the other one, G ∗ , governs shearing at 45° to the coordinate axes. They both were measured on the loading branch of the constitutive equation. The modulus for shearing at 45° was also measured on the unloading branch, where it is called G ∗ . Though the predicted onset of strain localization for this type of constitutive model is a strong function of G ∗ /G , there appears to have been no such data collected for rock. Experiments to obtain estimates of these incremental moduli were conducted on solid cylinders and thin-walled tubes of Tennessee marble during axisymmetric compression under fluid confining pressures of 60 MPa. All three moduli were equal to the isotropic elastic value of E/2(1 + ν) ≃ 30 GPa in the elastic range of axisymmetric compression, but then the moduli decreased with increasing axial strain up to 0.01, always with G ∗ ≤ G ∗ ≤ G , and the ratio G ∗ /G decreased markedly. The decreased ratio, G ∗ /G , allows strain localization to occur earlier in a program of axial straining than would be predicted for a similar material that did not exhibit such a change in moduli.
Establishing Content Validity for a Literacy Coach Performance Appraisal Instrument

This study's purpose was to determine whether or not the Literacy Coach Appraisal Instrument developed for use in evaluating literacy coaches had content validity. The study, a fully mixed concurrent equal status design conducted from a pragmatist philosophy, collected qualitative and quantitative data from literacy experts about the elements of the appraisal instrument. Data were collected through a survey posted on the National Council for Teachers of English website and through face-to-face interviews. A factor analysis was conducted to analyze quantitative data, while qualitative data were analyzed using constant comparative analysis. Two appraisal instruments were developed as a result of the factor analysis. Findings indicate that the instrument does have content validity and accurately reflects the job responsibilities of literacy coaches.
A psychoeducational approach in the treatment of anorexia nervosa

An overview of anorexia nervosa and a brief review of the most relevant literature is presented. The unique treatment needs of the anorexic child are discussed in terms of their overall influence, and particularly in view of typical cognitive and educational demands on the child. The psychoeducational approach is elaborated and applied to this understanding of the anorexic child. Issues that arise in dealing with the anorexic child in the classroom are discussed, and specific interventions and techniques are described. Primary goals for this treatment technique are elaborated, and case material demonstrating how these issues would be managed in the psychoeducational setting is presented.
Position paper of the ADA Ad Hoc Committee on Trace Anesthetics as a Potential Health Hazard In Dentistry

Important points made in the deliberations of the ADA ad hoc committee are reviewed, and a series of recommendations is presented to the profession. The historical aspects of general surgical anesthesia and the important part that dentists and dentistry played in its early development are cited. Nitrous oxide is used almost universally in operating rooms of the country as a vehicle or adjuvant for the more potent inhalation agents. In spite of the problems associated with its earlier use in dentistry, nitrous oxide more recently has become a very important inhalation sedative agent for the control of dental fear and anxiety. The general issues in the alleged anesthetic-health problem are discussed. The many essential differences between the medical and dental components of the overall problem are outlined, and some of the unique difficulties concerned with the control of inhalation anesthetic/sedative contamination of dental operatories are stated. Fundamental deficiencies in both animal and epidemiologic research in scientific support of the contamination-disease theory are given. An early resolution of this reseach need is critical, since a criteria document (presenting minimal standards) has been developed by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health and is being reviewed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, making compliance with its restrictive provisions a mandatory rather than an elective issue. Finally, all the complex issues are weighed in a risk to benefit ratio, and recommendations are made by the ad hoc committee that are viewed as reasonable and in the best interests of the profession and all others concerned.
Setup cost reduction in the dynamic lot-size model

Abstract Recently, one primary focus of Operations Management has turned to setup reduction because of the growth of Just-in-Time(JIT) manufacturing. Porteus [1] and Billington [2] have developed optimal policies for calculating investment in setup reduction and lot-size in the EOQ model when setup cost is some function of investment. Zangwill [3] has examined the effects of incremental setup cost reductions in the multi-factility dynamic demand environment on costs and zeroinventory facilities. His focus is on obtaining zero-inventory facilities and maximizing savings from lower setup costs without including the cost of such an event. As an extension of these developments, we model the Wagner-Whitin problem with a one-time oportunity to invest in setup reduction. Setup cost is treated as a policy variable and defined as a function of the decision variable representing the annual amortized investment in setup cost reduction. We use an exponential setup reduction function, but speculate that the results also hold for other functions as well. In contrast to Zangwill, we take a direct approach by explicitly finding the optimal investment in setup cost reduction while generating an optimal lot-sizing schedule. Solving a model that incorporates the trade-off between investment and savings results in more realistic solutions. We use a golden section search and the Wagner-Whitin algorithm to obtain solutions for lot-size, setup cost, and the investment in setup reduction. This model is also formulated as a network to better illustrate the interaction between the decision variables. The network formulation can also be exploited to solve the problem with linear programming or network techniques. Finally, we state and prove two theorems that hold for all setup reduction models whether they assume constant or dynamic demand. The first theorem asserts that optimal values for setupt cost and lot-sizes stay fixed over a particular range of holding costs. The second theorem states that the optimal setup cost is independent of initial setup cost.
Baculovirus-insect cell interactions

Baculovirus interactions with host cells range from the physical interactions that occur during viral binding and entry, to the complex and subtle mechanisms that reculate host gene expression and modify and regulate cellular and organismal physiology and defenses. Fundamental studies of baculovirus biochemistry and molecular biology have yielded many interesting and important discoveries on the mechanisms of these virus-host interactions. Information from such studies has also resulted in exciting new strategies for environmentally sound insect pest control, and in the development and improvement of a valuable eukaryotic expression vector system. In addition a number of important and valuable model biological systems have emerged from studies of baculoviruses. These include robust systems for studies of eukaryotic transcription, viral DNA replication, membrane fusion, and apoptosis. Because functions have been identified for only a small number of baculovirus genes, we can expect many exciting new discoveries in the future and an unfolding of the complex and intricate relationship between baculoviruses and insect cells.
Complementary Technologies, Knowledge Relatedness, and Invention Outcomesin High Technology Mergers and Acquisitions

Prior research on M&As and invention outcomes has not systematically examined the influence of two types of knowledge differences. Knowledge relatedness has typically been equated with knowledge similarity and the separate influence of knowledge complementarity has been overlooked. Similarly, studies examining innovation outcomes of M&As have typically focused on the role of technological knowledge and overlooked the influence of scientific knowledge. We develop a model of relatedness and invention performance of high-technology M&As that considers science and technology similarity and complementarity as important drivers of invention. We test the model using a sample of M&As from the drug, chemical, and electronics industries and a fine-grained measure of knowledge relatedness that distinguishes between science and technology relatedness. We find that complementary scientific knowledge and complementary technological knowledge both contribute to post-merger invention performance by stimulating higher quality and more novel inventions. This suggests that high-technology firms seeking acquisitions should search for, identify, and acquire businesses that have scientific and technological knowledge that is complementary to their own. Our results also suggest that similarities in knowledge facilitate incremental renewal, while complementarities would make discontinuous strategic transformations more likely, and that absorptive capacity research should be expanded to consider complementarities as well as similarities.
Estrogen protects primary cortical neurons from glutamate toxicity

The gonadal steroid estrogen has been shown to affect neuronal growth, differentiation and survival. We examined the ability of estrogen to protect primary cortical neurons from toxicity induced by the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate. In these experiments, a 24-h pretreatment with 15 and 50 nM 17β-estradiol significantly reduced cellular lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release from primary cortical neurons, indicating that neurons treated with 17β-estradiol were protected from a toxic glutamate exposure. Pretreatment with related steroids such as progesterone, dihydrotestosterone, dexamethasone or cholesterol did not significantly decrease LDH release. The anti-estrogen tamoxifen blocked the protective effects of 17β-estradiol suggesting that a classical steroid hormone receptor may be involved in the mechanism subserving estrogen neuroprotection during glutamate toxicity.
Eicosanoids and cancer

Eicosanoids, including prostaglandins and leukotrienes, are biologically active lipids that have been implicated in various pathological processes, such as inflammation and cancer. This Review highlights our understanding of the intricate roles of eicosanoids in epithelial-derived tumours and their microenvironment. The knowledge of how these lipids orchestrate the complex interactions between transformed epithelial cells and the surrounding stromal cells is crucial for understanding tumour evolution, progression and metastasis. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the role of prostaglandins and other eicosanoids in cancer progression will help to develop more effective cancer chemopreventive and/or therapeutic agents.
Maestrichtian (Upper Cretaceous) Biostratigraphy, Maverick County, Texas, and Northern Coahuila, Mexico: ABSTRACT

ABSTRACT Finely textured, calcitic, terrigenous clastic rocks of the type Escondido Formation (Rio Grande section) afford perhaps the most complete sphenodiscid ammonite succession in North America. Documented superposition in the type section cannot be reconciled with the established Maestrichtian ammonite zonation for south Texas and northern Mexico. A new zonation is proposed that should provide a clearer basis for biostratigraphic correlation with sphenodiscid-bearing sections elsewhere. Terrigenous clastic rocks previously referred to the Escondido Formation crop out in the eastern part of the Sabinas Coal Basin in northern Coahuila. In terms of facies and depositional style, these rocks bear more similarity to the Parras Shale-Difunta transition to the south than to the type Escondido. The lower part of the proposed zonal scheme can be recognized in the eastern Sabinas Coal Basin; the upper part is not expressed there because of facies change and missing section. If the ammonite zones have chronostratigraphic value, then, during the Maestrichtian, the Sabinas Coal Basin, was the site of far greater subsidence and sediment accumulation than the upper Rio Grande Embayment.
Long-range plume dispersion: Comparisons of the MT. ISA data with theoretical and empirical formulas

Abstract Recent measurements of widths of the plume from the Mt. Isa ore smelter, extending to 1000 km downwind, are compared with empirical and theoretical formulas for the horizontal diffusion length, σy. Formulas tested are the suggestion by: Heffter (1965), σy = t 2 ; Crawford (1966), gsy ∝ t1.2; and a recently developed theoretical curve by Gifford (1980). Correlations are high (r ~ 0.9) in all cases, but slightly higher for the theoretical curve. This indicates that its more complex shape indeed corresponds better to these data.
Tristate Inverter Array: A new test structure that compliments traditional SRAM arrays as a yield learning vehicle

The SRAM bitcell array has been traditionally used as a yield learning vehicle for new technologies. However, the yield of the SRAM bitcell is susceptible to parametric variations and subtle process defects/ variations. In this work a new functional array called the Tristated Inverter Array (TIA) is discussed which is much less susceptible to both parametric variation and subtle process defects while retaining all the useful features of the SRAM array (fail mappability, ease of isolation of fails, regular design). This structure can be used very effectively in yield learning as a complimentary test structure to the SRAM array for learning hard process defects.
How much will it hurt? HPV vaccine side effects and influence on completion of the three-dose regimen

We examined the prevalence of reported pain following human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination and whether it differed from that for other adolescent vaccines or affected completion of the HPV vaccine regimen. In 2008, we conducted cross-sectional surveys with parents of adolescent girls aged 11–20 living in areas of North Carolina with elevated cervical cancer rates who had received at least one dose of HPV vaccine. Pain from HPV vaccination, while commonly reported by parents, was less frequent compared to other adolescent vaccines and did not appear to affect vaccine regimen completion. These findings may be important to increase HPV vaccination coverage.
POLARIZATION OF NEUTRONS SCATTERED FROM DEUTERONS

Abstract The polarization of neutrons scattered from deuterons has been measured for several angles at neutron energies of 1.9, 6.0, 10.0, 16.4 and 23.7 MeV. The polarization is less than 0.05 for neutron energies of 1.9 and 6.0 MeV and at 10.0 and 16.4 MeV polarizations of the order of 0.1 are observed. For a neutron energy of 23.7 MeV the polarization changes from −0.1 at 110° (c.m.) to +0.1 at 138° (c.m.) passing through zero polarization near 125° (c.m.).
Self-introduction of disordered lattice distortion by a polymeric nanofiber laser

The developed molecular dynamics shows that upon photoexcitation of a conjugated polymer nanofiber, such as poly(phenylene vinylene)s or the polyfluorene family, singlet excitons initially are formed. Through continuous optical pumping, the electron populations of the excitons are reversed. Different from inorganic materials, the electron population reversion not only generates new localized electron states but also destroys the periodic structure of the polymer chain, inducing localized lattice distortion. These localized modes provide one of the channels to form localized lasing emission in a single conjugated nanofiber laser, which is consistent with recent experimental observations.
In the Land of the Mermaid: How Culture, not Ecology, Influenced Marine Mammal Exploitation in the Southeastern Caribbean

Although some progress has been made toward a better understanding of marine mammal utilization in the Southeastern Caribbean, no comparative analysis has been carried out to see how such practices originated, developed, and finally impacted the marine mammal populations in that region. We conducted field and archival studies for Venezuela, Trinidad and Tobago, Grenada, Barbados, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. We analyzed records of whaling, dolphin fisheries, and manatee exploitation for those countries, interviewed local fishers, and explored the remains of whaling stations in each area. Our results show that each of these countries developed a different pattern of whale and dolphin exploitation, but similar patterns of utilizing manatees. We conclude that these five neighboring countries, although sharing essentially the same marine mammal species, developed different exploitation practices in terms of species targeted, capture techniques, and time periods in which that exploitation took place, due to different cultural circumstances.
Video perceptual distortion measure: two-dimensional versus three-dimensional approaches

In this paper the two-dimensional and three-dimensional video perceptual distortion measure systems based on the human vision model are presented. These systems are extensions of the still perceptual distortion measure system. One advantage of the two-dimensional video distortion measure is that the distortion can be weighted for frames in the vicinity of scene cuts. The two-dimensional video distortion measure also requires less computation compared to the three-dimensional video distortion measure. Simulation results are presented.
The nature and scope of moonlighting by radiology trainees.

Rationale and Objectives The practice of moonlighting by trainees is a longstanding controversy; however, the resident point of view remains distinctly underrepresented in the radiology literature. We report the resident perspective on the moonlighting practices of radiology trainees. Methods Survey data were collected from resident members of the Association of University Radiologists representing 84 training programs in the United States to assess their routine and extracurricular clinical responsibilities. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze these data. Results Moonlighting is practiced by radiology trainees at nearly three-fourths of the programs represented in this survey. Interpreting diagnostic imaging (85.5%) and monitoring contrast administrations (72.6%) are the most common duties performed. Twenty-one percent of moonlighting trainees perform procedures (excluding diagnostic fluoroscopy) in their extracurricular positions; of these, most (61.5%) are without attending supervision. Most trainees that moonlight spend 1 to 10 hours weekly doing so while averaging a 59-hour workweek at their primary jobs. Conclusions The clinical duties of moonlighting trainees may be more diverse than has been previously recognized. Although major discrepancies between overnight radiology trainee interpretations and attending final interpretations have been shown to be infrequent, the consequences of trainees performing procedures and monitoring adverse contrast reactions without attending supervision are unknown. The financial and professional benefits of moonlighting must be weighed against the potential for harm. Our data suggest that most moonlighting radiology trainees operate within the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education–mandated 80-hour weekly work limit; the mandatory 8-hour break between shifts and 24-hour continuous duty limit may pose logistical challenges.
Identification of Replication-Competent Strains of Simian Immunodeficiency Virus Lacking Multiple Attachment Sites for N-Linked Carbohydrates in Variable Regions 1 and 2 of the Surface Envelope Protein

Carbohydrates comprise about 50% of the mass of gp120, the external envelope glycoprotein of simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) and human immunodeficiency virus. We identified 11 replication-competent derivatives of SIVmac239 lacking two, three, four, or five potential sites for N-linked glycosylation. These sites were located within and around variable regions 1 and 2 of the surface envelope protein of the virus. Asn (AAT) of the canonical N-linked glycosylation recognition sequence (Asn X Ser/Thr) was changed in each case to the structurally similar Gln (CAG or CAA) such that two nucleotide changes in the codon would be required for reversion. Replication of one triple mutant (g456), however, was severely impaired. A revertant of the g456 mutant was recovered from CEMx174 cells with a Met-to-Val compensatory substitution at position 144, 2 amino acids upstream of attachment site 5. Thus, a debilitating loss of sites for N-linked glycosylation can be compensated for by amino acid changes not involving the Asn-X-Ser/Thr consensus motif. These results provide a framework to begin testing the hypothesis that carbohydrates form a barrier that can limit the humoral immune responses to the virus.
Neuroprotective role of erythropoietin in neonates

This review summarizes target populations of neonates for which erythropoietin (Epo) neuroprotective therapy might be of benefit, and the mechanisms by which Epo functions as a neuroprotective agent. Potential risks of Epo are reviewed. Finally, the progression of Epo neuroprotection from preclinical studies to translational studies is discussed.
Delivery of molecules into cells using carbon nanoparticles activated by femtosecond laser pulses

A major barrier to drug and gene delivery is crossing the cell's plasma membrane. Physical forces applied to cells via electroporation, ultrasound and laser irradiation generate nanoscale holes in the plasma membrane for direct delivery of drugs into the cytoplasm. Inspired by previous work showing that laser excitation of carbon nanoparticles can drive the carbon-steam reaction to generate highly controlled shock waves, we show that carbon black nanoparticles activated by femtosecond laser pulses can facilitate the delivery of small molecules, proteins and DNA into two types of cells. Our initial results suggest that interaction between the laser energy and carbon black nanoparticles may generate photoacoustic forces by chemical reaction to create transient holes in the membrane for intracellular delivery.
Biological Data Outlier Detection Based on Kullback-Leibler Divergence

Outlier detection is imperative in biomedical data analysis to achieve reliable knowledge discovery. In this paper, a new outlier detection method based on Kullback-Leibler (KL) divergence is presented. The original concept of KL divergence was designed as a measure of distance between two distributions. Stemming from that, we extend it to biological sample outlier detection by forming sample sets composed of nearest neighbors. To handle the non-linearity during the KL divergence calculation and to tackle with the singularity problem due to small sample size, we map the original data into a higher feature space and apply kernel functions without resorting to a mapping function. A sample possessing the largest KL divergence is detected as an outlier. The proposed method is tested with one synthetic data, two public gene expression data sets, and our own mass spectrometry data generated for prostate cancer study.
Applications of neural networks for aerospace-related technologies

Over the last decade neural networks have emerged as a versatile computing technology, offering efficient solutions in many engineering, industrial and business applications, including decision support systems and medicine. This paper addresses the basic concepts of neurocomputing and discusses applications relevant to the aerospace industry. The advantages and drawbacks of neurocomputing are discussed as compared to conventional approaches to engineering solutions. Also, current needs and potential developments in the field are reviewed.
Distributed Linear Parameter Estimation over Wireless Sensor Networks

In this paper, we consider distributed linear least squares (LLS) and Bayesian minimum mean square error (BMMSE) parameter estimation over sensor networks. In particular, we propose distributed iterative algorithms that asymptotically converge to the centralized solutions. These algorithms are first studied for the case of unclustered (flat architecture) sensor networks; in this venue, we provide necessary and sufficient conditions for the distributed algorithm to converge. Subsequently, we extend our analysis to clustered sensor networks with pulsed inter-cluster updates. In this latter scenario, inter-cluster communications occur every s time steps (with s > 1) and the corresponding updates are held until the next update instant. Depending on sensor locations and the employed network topology construction algorithm, it may be the case that inter-cluster communications require higher transmitter power support than intracluster communications. For energy-constrained sensor networks, it will therefore be beneficial-from a power efficiency (or alternately, network lifetime) point of view-to limit the extent of inter-cluster communication, without significantly deteriorating the convergence properties of the distributed estimation algorithm. We anticipate that a pulsed inter-cluster update scheme will also be useful for applications such as ground or airborne sensor networks, where low probability of detection and interception is essential. Our analysis provides sufficient conditions under which such distributed estimation algorithms, operating on a pulsed inter-cluster update scheme, converge. Simulation results illustrating the dependence of the convergence rate of the algorithm on the hold interval s conclude the paper.
Development of Live Load Distribution Factor Equation for Girder Bridges

Live load distribution factor (LDF) equations are among the most important bridge design calculations because they provide the distributed moment and forces, which are needed for designing new or for evaluating existing bridges. The AASHTO load and resistance factor design specification is the current standard for bridge design. It uses a power function containing parameters that are often unknown when bridges are being designed and thereby allows the design procedure to be iterative. This iterative design procedure is perceived by many practicing engineers as impractical and has raised questions regarding the desired level of simplicity in bridge design calculations. Therefore, simpler but more accurate LDF equations are needed. An experimental program to evaluate the behavior of girder bridges was launched. The program consisted of live load testing of actual girder bridges. A parametric study was carried out by using a detailed three-dimensional finite element analysis to determine how sensitive various bridge parameters are to the LDF. On the basis of the parametric study, new simplified LDF equations are proposed for various types of girder bridges, including steel, prestressed, and spread box girder bridges. The equation format is simplified as a function of two bridge parameters only (girder spacing and span length) while an equal level of accuracy is maintained. Results are compared with those from other available equations and are shown to have excellent correlation with the more exact finite element method.
Biology of cave crickets, Hadenoecus subterraneus, and camel crickets, Ceuthophilus stygius (Insecta: Orthoptera): Metabolism and water economies related to size and temperature

Abstract 1. 1. Metabolic rate (MR) and water budget (WB) components of cave and camel crickets are directly related to size and temperature. 2. 2. MR increases most rapidly with size for insects in general followed by cave crickets (females > males), and lastly, camel crickets (no sex differences). 3. 3. Metabolic thermal sensitivity of cave crickets (males > females) is much greater than camel crickets. 4. 4. WB components parallel MR relations.
A switch-level matrix approach to transistor-level fault simulation

The authors describe a method for performing transistor-level logical fault simulation. The method relies on switch-level modeling and uses a switch-level matrix-equation formulation and solution into which fault models are inserted in a straightforward manner. The fault models include transistor stuck-at, node stuck-at, and bridging faults. Both output voltage monitoring and current testing are used for fault detection. The approach has been implemented in a concurrent fault simulator and tested using both combinational and sequential circuit benchmarks. The results of the simulator compare very favourably with existing switch-level fault simulators while allowing more complete transistor-level fault models to be included. >
Invariant optimal control in linear dynamic systems

The invariant linear-quadratic regulator and servomechanism problem is considered. Solution techniques based on differential-algebraic equations solution are developed. It is not necessary to know the given trajectory and disturbance on the control interval ahead of time. It is enough to know them only at the current time. An example is given.
Modeling and Forecasting Secondary User Activity Considering Bulk Arrival and Bulk Departure Traffic Model

In this paper, we consider an Erlangian process model for secondary user (SU) traffic in a cognitive radio network (CRN). Unlike prior efforts that focused on Poisson traffic models, the model captures bulk arrival and departure scenarios in a frequency band that is open for opportunistic use by multiple secondary users. Specifically, we develop a Kalman filter based estimation and forecasting strategy for the number of secondary users. Using simulated data, we demonstrate that the proposed approach provides a robust upper bound prediction on the number of secondary users. traffic (8), we propose a Kalman filter based estimate for the number of secondary users from power level measurements for a more general Erlangian traffic model. We then use this estimate to determine an upper bound predictor of the number of secondary users in a spectral band. Having an idea of the number of secondary users that may occupy a given spectral band at a future time instant is critical information from a QoS standpoint. This is because, the predicted number of secondary users quantifies the level of interference a SU may experience if the band is used for transmission. So, while a spectral band may be available for use because the PU is absent, it may not be truly suitable for access by a SU from a QoS standpoint if the predicted number of secondary users is large. Therefore, the predictive capability provided by our proposed approach is a desirable feature when multiple secondary users compete for the same spectral band. We characterize the performance of our proposed forecasting strategy using simulated data and also evaluate its robustness to errors in traffic parameter estimates. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed strategy provides a robust upper bound prediction of the number of secondary users in a spectral band.
Sensory and Compositional Characteristics of Blanc Du Bois Wine

Blanc Du Bois is a hybrid white bunch grape variety developed for its ability to produce high-quality white wines, to thrive in the warm, humid climate of the southeastern United States, and for its resistance to Pierce’s disease. Little is known regarding Blanc Du Bois wine flavor profiles and how these relate to perceived quality. This study investigated the sensory and chemical characteristics of Blanc Du Bois wines to characterize quality differences among them. The study was divided into three sections: trained panel descriptive analysis, chemical and volatile analyses of the wines, and quality evaluation by expert wine judges. Fourteen commercially available Blanc Du Bois wines were rated in the descriptive analysis panel. Fourteen panelists generated a bank of 13 attributes deemed to be the most prominent aromas and flavors in the wines. After training with the aid of references for each attribute and calibration of all panelists with a 15-point intensity scale, the intensity of each attribute was rated for each wine. Results were analyzed using two-way ANOVA, principal component analysis (PCA), and correlation analysis. There were differences among wines for each attribute, and when plotted with the wine judges’ quality ratings, PCA showed specific attributes to be correlated with high- or low-quality wines. The results indicate that samples exhibiting tropical and tree fruit characteristics were higher in quality than those with citrus, greenwood/ grassy, and phenolic qualities. Higher quality wines tended to be positively correlated with increased levels of ethyl and acetate esters, including isoamyl acetate, ethyl octanoate, ethyl decanoate, and ethyl dodecanoate.