cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ontogeny of neural discharge patterns in the ventral cochlear nucleus of the Mongolian gerbil

Discharge patterns were recorded extracellularly from single neurons in the ventral cochlear nucleus (VCN) of Mongolian gerbils ranging in age from 10 days after birth (DAB) to adult, a period which includes the onset of responsiveness to acoustic stimulation. At 10 DAB none of the neurons encountered within the VCN responded to acoustic stimulation. At 12 DAB approximately 15% of the neurons isolated in VCN were responsive. This coincided with the earliest cochlear microphonic potentials and preceded the appearance of the cochlear compound action potential (AP) by two days. At 14 DAB, or older, the great majority of neurons isolated in VCN responded to acoustic stimulation. Most parameters of VCN neural function exhibited significant changes between 12 and 18 DAB: neural thresholds improved approximately 100 dB; mean spontaneous discharge rate increased; the high-frequency range of characteristic frequency (CF) values increased from 10.0 to 24.0 kHz; the upper limit for phase locking increased from 0.8 kHz to 3.0 kHz; dynamic range increased from 16 dB to 44 dB, and the proportion of units with well-defined initial onset peaks in their post-stimulus-time (PST) response patterns increased from 40% to 100% of units. Most of the neural parameters examined achieved adult characteristics by 18 DAB. Frequency tuning (Q10dB) matured earlier for high-CF units. The most sharply tuned neurons with high CFs (>4 kHz) at 12 DAB had Q10dB values equal to those for adults. None of the neurons with low CFs (<4 kHz) had Q10dB values greater than 1.2 at this age. Classical ‘on’ PST response patterns were not seen at 12 and 14 DAB. A unique PST response type, characterized by very long latency phasic discharge, was observed only at 12 DAB. None of the VCN neurons recorded from 12 DAB subjects displayed rhythmic ‘bursting’ or ‘pulsing’ PST response patterns, as has been reported at the earliest stages of functional development in the VCN of the cat. Most units were capable of sustained discharge, even with long stimulus durations. Units with ‘primary-like’ PST response patterns at 12 exhibited greater variability in first spike latency and less pronounced initial rates of firing than was characteristic in adults, resulting in poorly defined onset peaks. In contrast, units with chopper PST response patterns showed well-defined onset peaks.
The stoichiometries of H2 and CO adsorptions on cobalt: Effects of support and preparation

Abstract Catalysts composed of unsupported cobalt and cobalt supported on silica, alumina, titania, magnesia, and carbon were prepared by thermal decomposition, impregnation, precipitation, and evaporative deposition. These catalysts were characterized by high temperature (323–423 K) hydrogen adsorption and conventional 298 K adsorptions of hydrogen and carbon monoxide. Total surface areas of unsupported cobalt catalysts were measured by BET. Metal crystallite sizes were determined independently from XRD, TEM, and hydrogen adsorption. Extents of reduction were measured by O2 titration at 673 K. Hydrogen adsorption on cobalt is activated and reversible; extents of activation and reversibility vary with support, metal loading, and preparation. The hydrogen adsorption stoichiometry is 1.0 hydrogen atom per surface cobalt atom, if total adsorption at the temperature of maximum uptake is considered. The adsorption of CO is nonactivated and reversible; the stoichiometry for irreversible adsorption varies from 0.4 to 2.3 molecules of CO per surface cobalt atom, depending upon support, metal loading, and preparation. Cobalt dispersion and extent of reduction also vary greatly with support, metal loading, and method of preparation. Cobalt/carbon catalysts prepared by evaporative deposition have unusually high dispersions relative to other cobalt catalysts. Hydrogen adsorption is recommended as the most convenient, reliable technique for measurement of cobalt crystallite size in Co Al 2 O 3 , Co SiO 2 , and Co C catalysts.
Gender- and age-related differences in heart rate dynamics: are women more complex than men?

OBJECTIVES. This study aimed to quantify the complex dynamics of beat-to-beat sinus rhythm heart rate fluctuations and to determine their differences as a function of gender and age. BACKGROUND. Recently, measures of heart rate variability and the nonlinear "complexity" of heart rate dynamics have been used as indicators of cardiovascular health. Because women have lower cardiovascular risk and greater longevity than men, we postulated that there are important gender-related differences in beat-to-beat heart rate dynamics. METHODS. We analyzed heart rate dynamics during 8-min segments of continuous electrocardiographic recording in healthy young (20 to 39 years old), middle-aged (40 to 64 years old) and elderly (65 to 90 years old) men (n = 40) and women (n = 27) while they performed spontaneous and metronomic (15 breaths/min) breathing. Relatively high (0.15 to 0.40 Hz) and low (0.01 to 0.15 Hz) frequency components of heart rate variability were computed using spectral analysis. The overall "complexity" of each heart rate time series was quantified by its approximate entropy, a measure of regularity derived from nonlinear dynamics ("chaos" theory). RESULTS. Mean heart rate did not differ between the age groups or genders. High frequency heart rate power and the high/low frequency power ratio decreased with age in both men and women (p < 0.05). The high/low frequency power ratio during spontaneous and metronomic breathing was greater in women than men (p < 0.05). Heart rate approximate entropy decreased with age and was higher in women than men (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS. High frequency heart rate spectral power (associated with parasympathetic activity) and the overall complexity of heart rate dynamics are higher in women than men. These complementary findings indicate the need to account for gender-as well as age-related differences in heart rate dynamics. Whether these gender differences are related to lower cardiovascular disease risk and greater longevity in women requires further study.
Evidence for two lac Y gene derived protein products in the E. coli membrane.

Summary The membrane protein composition of several lac operon mutant strains has been determined by amino acid double labeling and analysis by SDS-PAGE or gel filtration in SDS. A single component of apparent MW = 30,000 could be identified as the product of the wild type lac Y gene when membrane proteins were dissolved in SDS at room temperature. Heating in SDS in the presence of 50 MM DTT or iodoacetamide allowed complete denaturation and resolution of two protein components with MW's of 33,000 and 15,000. Both polypeptides were altered in strains with mutations in lac Y . The two polypeptides from a wild-type strain fractionated as a single component during extraction and purification in the non-denaturing detergent, Triton X-100. The sum of the MW's of the two proteins is approximately equal to the MW of the protein product predicted from the lac Y gene DNA sequence.
Establishing connectivity in proximity networks

We examine the problem of designing the optimal paths to establish connectivity in a network of intially scattered dynamic agents, specifically minimizing the squared integral of the total control effort. The network edges are modeled by proximity relationships between endpoint agents, leading to a dynamic, state-dependent network topology. We formulate an optimal control problem with specified initial states, linear dynamics, and a connectivity constraint on the final induced topology. Our approach utilizes the Hamiltonian and resultant Euler-Lagrange equations to restructure the optimal control formulation as a parameter optimization problem based on final agent states. We provide both a heuristic approach and an iterative semidefinite programming relaxation to efficiently approximate a solution of the resulting combinatorial optimization problem. Simulation results are provided (for double integrator agent dynamics) to demonstrate feasibility for both approaches, and the results are compared with those obtained from exhaustive global search and random sampling.
New approaches to the Moon's isotopic crisis.

Recent comparisons of the isotopic compositions of the Earth and the Moon show that, unlike nearly every other body known in the Solar System, our satellite's isotopic ratios are nearly identical to the Earth's for nearly every isotopic system. The Moon's chemical make-up, however, differs from the Earth's in its low volatile content and perhaps in the elevated abundance of oxidized iron. This surprising situation is not readily explained by current impact models of the Moon's origin and offers a major clue to the Moon's formation, if we only could understand it properly. Current ideas to explain this similarity range from assuming an impactor with the same isotopic composition as the Earth to postulating a pure ice impactor that completely vaporized upon impact. Several recent proposals follow from the suggestion that the Earth–Moon system may have lost a great deal of angular momentum during early resonant interactions. The isotopic constraint may be the most stringent test yet for theories of the Moon's origin.
Extracellular matrix production and regulation in micropatterned endothelial cells

Production and maintenance of extracellular matrix (ECM) is an essential aspect of endothelial cell (EC) function. ECM surfaces composed of collagen type IV and laminin support an atheroprotective endothelium, while fibronectin may encourage an atheroprone endothelium through inflammation or wound repair signaling. ECs maintain this underlying structure through regulation of protein production and degradation, yet the role of cytoskeletal alignment on this regulation is unknown. To examine the regulation and production of ECM by ECs with an atheroprotective phenotype, ECs were micropatterned onto lanes, which created an elongated EC morphology similar to that seen with unidirectional fluid shear stress application. Collagen IV and fibronectin protein production were measured as were gene expression of collagen IV, fibronectin, laminin, MMP2, MMP9, TIMP1, TIMP2, and TGF-β1. ECs were also treated with TNF to simulate an injury model. Micropattern-induced elongation led to significant increases in collagen IV and fibronectin protein production, and collagen IV, laminin, and TGF-β1 gene expression, but no significant changes in the MMP or TIMP genes. TNF treatment significantly increased collagen IV gene and protein production. These results suggest that the increase in ECM synthesis in micropattern-elongated ECs is likely regulated with TGF-β1, and this increase in ECM could be relevant to the atheroprotection needed for maintenance of a healthy endothelium in vivo.
Using Email and the Internet in Science Teaching

ABSTRACT The US federal Government has supplied monies to support two key areas in K‐12 science education: first, pre‐service and in‐service training for the teachers of science and mathematics; and, second, the development of better curriculum materials and instructional strategies to teach science and mathematics. This paper will address the instructional part of the second key area. It will deal with how the Internet can be used to improve secondary science instruction. Specifically it will discuss learning strategies on the Internet, and why pre‐service teachers should learn to use the Internet, in four pre‐service teacher training classes in a US university.
Bioenergetics of Hy-Line Brown Hens in Aviary Houses

In considering hen-housing systems, applicable heat and moisture production values are essential to producing properly designed and managed ventilation and supplemental heating systems. The aviary system is one housing type under consideration by egg producers. The aviary system has a much lower bird stocking density and more freedom of movement compared to conventional cage housing. This study was conducted to obtain baseline heat and moisture production values for Hy-Line Brown hens in such barns in the Midwestern US. The study continually monitored the house-level thermal environment, air quality, and bird production performance of two commercially operated 50,000-hen aviary houses over a 19-month period. The two houses used similar management strategies and Hy-Line Brown hens with a 20-week difference in age. Data were collected for a complete flock (17-83 weeks, no molt) in each house. Total heat production (THP) of the hens, house-level moisture production (MP), house-level sensible heat production (SHP), and respiratory quotient (RQ) were determined from monitored variables using indirect calorimetry and mass/energy balance, respectively. Variations in THP, MP, SHP and RQ within the day were delineated. Results of the study showed the THP, house-level MP, house-level SHP and RQ values of 5.94 W/kg, 1.83 W/kg, 4.11 W/kg, and 0.94 for the aviary housing system. The new data are expected to improve the design and operation of building ventilation and supplemental heating system, and ultimately production efficiency of the aviary housing systems. The THP and RQ data will also prove useful to indirect determination of building ventilation rate using CO2 balance method.
The role of the health department in tuberculosis control.

The County Health Department should serve as the hub of all health services and should offer leadership in coordinating and integrating the community health resources. It should offer counselling and referral services for persons unfamiliar with the public, private, health and welfare resources of the county. The County Health Department usually maintains the case register of all known tuberculosis cases and provides nursing service in addition to year-round case finding activities. The control of recalcitrant tuberculosis cases usually is built around the local health department. Many local health departments provide needed laboratory tests, including sputum studies of suspected tuberculosis cases. The Health Department should conduct periodic and regular evaluations of the local tuberculosis program and offer leadership in the planning of the control program. It has an obligation to provide information and the problem of tuberculosis to the public and should discourage complacency. Every health department should encourage routine chest x-ray films on all hospital admissions. If interest, funds and personnel permit, research studies should be conducted regarding the disease.
System identification- an introduction and a survey:

This paper presents a survey of a number of techniques for the identification of dynamic systems using computer techniques. The techniques discussed are particularly suited to digital or hybrid com...
Screening Combinatorial Libraries by Mass Spectrometry. 2. Identification of Optimal Substrates of Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase SHP-1†

Protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs) are a large family of enzymes that catalyze the hydrolytic removal of the phosphoryl group from phosphotyrosyl (pY) proteins. In this work, we have developed a novel combinatorial library method, termed "enzyme-catalyzed loss of isotope peak signal enhancement (ECLIPSE)", to determine the substrate specificity of PTPs. This method involves partial labeling of pY at a nonbridging phosphate oxygen atom with 50% (18)O ((16)O/(18)O = 1:1). A 361-member solution-phase peptide library with randomization at the -1 and -2 positions (relative to pY), RNNXXpYA-NH(2) (X = 19 alpha-amino acids except for Cys), was synthesized with the partially (18)O-labeled pY by the split-synthesis method. Each member of the resulting pY peptide library appeared as a doublet peak in the mass spectrum (m/z m and m + 2.0043). Limited treatment of the library with a PTP removed the mass-degenerate phosphoryl group from the most preferred substrates to generate products as singlet peaks, which were readily identified and sequenced by tandem mass spectrometry. Screening of the pY library against the catalytic domain of SHP-1 revealed that SHP-1 prefers an acidic residue at the -2 position, with aspartic acid being slightly better than glutamic acid. At the -1 position, SHP-1 also prefers an acidic residue, although a variety of other amino acids are also tolerated. On the other hand, positively charged residues at these positions render the corresponding peptides very poor substrates of SHP-1. Several selected peptides were individually synthesized and assayed against SHP-1, and the kinetic data confirmed the screening results. These results demonstrate that ECLIPSE is a viable method for studying the substrate specificity of PTPs.
Efflux in Fungi: La Pièce de Résistance

Pathogens must be able to overcome both host defenses and antimicrobial treatment in order to successfully infect and maintain colonization of the host. One way fungi accomplish this feat and overcome intercellular toxin accumulation is efflux pumps, in particular ATP-binding cassette transporters and transporters of the major facilitator superfamily. Members of these two superfamilies remove many toxic compounds by coupling transport with ATP hydrolysis or a proton gradient, respectively. Fungal genomes encode a plethora of members of these families of transporters compared to other organisms. In this review we discuss the role these two fungal superfamilies of transporters play in virulence and resistance to antifungal agents. These efflux transporters are responsible not only for export of compounds involved in pathogenesis such as secondary metabolites, but also export of host-derived antimicrobial compounds. In addition, we examine the current knowledge of these transporters in resistance of pathogens to clinically relevant antifungal agents.
Imaging features of micropapillary DCIS: correlation with clinical and histopathological findings.

Rationale and Objectives The aim of this study was to describe the mammographic, sonographic, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings of micropapillary ductal carcinoma in situ. Materials and Methods Between May 2004 and April 2008, the pathology database of a single institution was reviewed for patients diagnosed with histologically proven DCIS with a predominant micropapillary component. Clinical data and preoperative imaging studies, including mammography, sonography, and/or MRI, were reviewed. Results Forty-one patients (mean age, 55 years; range, 33–82 years) with 42 tumors were included in this study. Most tumors ( n = 32 [76%]) were detected on screening mammography, with a mean tumor size of 4.7 cm (range, 0.5–13 cm). Of 42 tumors, seven (16%) were multicentric, and 23 (54%) were high nuclear grade. Calcifications were identified in 36 tumors (86%) on mammography, most frequently with pleomorphic morphology (15 tumors [42%]). Sonography was frequently normal (17 of 36 [47%]). When abnormal, irregular mass and angular margins were the most common sonographic features. All four tumors with MRI showed non-mass-like enhancement and showed the best correlation with pathologic size. Conclusions Micropapillary ductal carcinoma in situ is a unique subset of in situ cancer that is frequently clinically occult but has a large mean size at diagnosis and demonstrates highly suspicious features at imaging including pleomorphic calcifications on mammography and an irregular mass at sonography. MRI may be the imaging modality of choice for delineation of disease extent and warrants further validation.
THE HIGH SCHOOL PRESS AND THE FIRST AMENDMENT: A SUMMARY OF PRINCIPLES

(1978). THE HIGH SCHOOL PRESS AND THE FIRST AMENDMENT: A SUMMARY OF PRINCIPLES. Free Speech Yearbook: Vol. 17, No. 1, pp. 92-97.
Sexual Identity Group Differences in Child Abuse and Neglect

Childhood abuse and neglect are pervasive problems among girls and young women that have numerous health consequences. Research suggests that sexual minority women are more likely than heterosexual women to report childhood abuse and neglect, but little is known about which sexual minority women are at greatest risk for these early adverse experiences. Using data from a pooled sample of women in a national probability study and in a large community-based study of sexual minority women designed to replicate the national study's methodology (pooled n = 953), we investigated rates and characteristics of childhood sexual abuse, physical abuse, and neglect among women from five sexual identity groups. As predicted, heterosexual women reported significantly less childhood abuse and neglect than did women who identified as mostly heterosexual, bisexual, mostly lesbian, or lesbian. We found considerable variability across the sexual minority subgroups, including severity of abuse, highlighting the need for research that distinguishes among these groups. To the extent that differences reported by women in the sample reflect the actual prevalence and severity of abuse experiences, sexual identity group differences in childhood abuse have important clinical and public health implications.
Malorientation in half-bivalents at anaphase in crane fly spermatocytes following Colcemid treatment.

Addition of Colcemid to the medium in which larvae of the crane fly Nephrotoma suturalis are cultivated induces a number of anomalous patterns of chromosome segregation. One of these is the anaphase lagging of autosomal half-bivalents. To investigate the cause of anaphase lagging, the orientation of sister kinetochores in Colcemidtreated spermatocytes having lagging half-bivalents was analyzed in serial sections. In contrast to nonlaggard halfbivalents that had pure syntelic orientation (sister kinetochores having all of their kinetochores microtubules (KMTs) extending to the same pole), six of the seven autosomal laggards that were selected for analysis had kinetochores with either amphitelic orientation (sister kinetochores each with a bundle of KMTs extending to opposite poles) or merotelic orientation (a single kinetochore having KMTs extending toward both poles). An additional laggard had syntelic orientation but two of the microtubules that were in its kinetochore fiber passed through the kinetochore and extended beyond it toward the equator. The bipolar malorientations observed in anaphase half-bivalents are interpreted to be a cause of the anaphase lagging induced by Colcemid treatment. Furthermore, it is hypothesized that such bipolar malorientations also may be stabilized at metaphase and thus explain the unusual tilting of metaphase bivalents commonly observed in Colcemid-treated cells.
HST/WFC3 flux calibration ladder: Vega

Vega is one of only a few stars calibrated against an SI-traceable blackbody, and is the historical flux standard. Photometric zeropoints of the Hubble Space Telescope’s instruments rely on Vega, through the transfer of its calibration via stellar atmosphere models to the suite of standard stars. HST’s recently implemented scan mode has enabled us to develop a path to an absolute SI traceable calibration for HST IR observations. To fill in the crucial gap between 0.9 and 1.7 micron in the absolute calibration, we acquired -1st order spectra of Vega with the two WFC3 infrared grisms. At the same time, we have improved the calibration of the -1st orders of both WFC3 IR grisms, as well as extended the dynamic range of WFC3 science observations by a factor of 10000. We describe our progress to date on the WFC3 ‘flux calibration ladder’ project to provide currently needed accurate zeropoint measurements in the IR
Contemporary management of acute aortic dissection

The development of endovascular techniques has introduced a new dimension to the management of acute aortic dissection. Conventional therapy has traditionally been relegated to patients who experience severe clinical sequelae; unfortunately, clinicians have not been able to accurately predict the clinical consequences of a dissection. However, recent attention to true and false lumen characteristics, the distal extent of the dissection, and branch vessel involvement has demonstrated that these independent predictors of outcome can serve as surrogate indications for endovascular or surgical treatment. We review the pathophysiological mechanisms associated with the sequelae of aortic dissection and summarize the treatment paradigms we have developed.
Developmental Changes in Calmodulin‐Kinase II Activity at Brain Synaptic Junctions: Alterations in Holoenzyme Composition

Synaptic junctions (SJs) from rat forebrain were isolated at increasing postnatal ages and examined for endogenous protein kinase activities. Our studies focused on the postnatal maturation of the multifunctional protein kinase designated Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaM-kinase II). This kinase is comprised of a major 50-kilodalton (kDa) and a minor 60-kDa subunit. Experiments examined the developmental properties of CaM kinase II associated with synaptic plasma membranes (SPMs) and synaptic junctions (SJs), as well as the holoenzyme purified from cytosolic extracts. Large developmental increases in CaM-kinase II activity of SJ fractions were observed between postnatal days 6 and 20; developmental changes were examined for a number of properties including (a) autophosphorylation, (b) endogenous substrate phosphorylation, (c) exogenous substrate phosphorylation, and (d) immunoreactivity. Results demonstrated that fore brain CaM-kinase II undergoes a striking age-dependent change in subunit composition. In early postnatal forebrain the 60-kDa subunit constitutes the major catalytic and immunoreactive subunit of the holoenzyme. The major peak of CaM-kinase II activity in SJ fractions occurred at approximately postnatal day 20, a time near the end of the most active period of in vivo synapse formation. Following this developmental age, CaM-kinase II continued to accumulate at SJs; however, its activity was not as highly activated by Ca2+ plus calmodulin.
Adaptive tracking control of manipulators: Theory and experiments

This paper considers the trajectory tracking problem for uncertain robot manipulators and proposes two adaptive controllers as solutions to this problem. The first controller is derived under the assumption that the manipulator state is measurable, while the second strategy is developed for those applications in which only position measurements are available. The adaptive schemes are very general and computationally efficient since they do not require knowledge of either the mathematical model or the parameter values of the manipulator dynamics, and are implemented without calculation of the robot inverse dynamics or inverse kinematic transformation. It is shown that the control strategies ensure uniform boundedness of all signals in the presence of bounded disturbances, and that the ultimate size of the tracking errors can be made arbitrarily small. Experimental results are presented for a PUMA 560 manipulator and demonstrate that accurate and robust trajectory tracking can be achieved by using the proposed controllers.
Population Trend and Elasticities of Vital Rates for Steller Sea Lions (Eumetopias jubatus) in the Eastern Gulf of Alaska: A New Life-History Table Analysis

Steller sea lion (Eumetopias jubatus) numbers are beginning to recover across most of the western distinct population segment following catastrophic declines that began in the 1970s and ended around the turn of the century. This study makes use of contemporary vital rate estimates from a trend-site rookery in the eastern Gulf of Alaska (a sub-region of the western population) in a matrix population model to estimate the trend and strength of the recovery across this region between 2003 and 2013. The modeled population trend was projected into the future based on observed variation in vital rates and a prospective elasticity analysis was conducted to determine future trends and which vital rates pose the greatest threats to recovery. The modeled population grew at a mean rate of 3.5% per yr between 2003 and 2013 and was correlated with census count data from the local rookery and throughout the eastern Gulf of Alaska. If recent vital rate estimates continue with little change, the eastern Gulf of Alaska population could be fully recovered to pre-decline levels within 23 years. With density dependent growth, the population would need another 45 years to fully recover. Elasticity analysis showed that, as expected, population growth rate (λ) was most sensitive to changes in adult survival, less sensitive to changes in juvenile survival, and least sensitive to changes in fecundity. A population decline could be expected with only a 6% decrease in adult survival, whereas a 32% decrease in fecundity would be necessary to bring about a population decline. These results have important implications for population management and suggest current research priorities should be shifted to a greater emphasis on survival rates and causes of mortality.
Comparative Biology of the Sculpins of Lake Superior

The slimy sculpin (Cottus cognatus), spoonhead sculpin (Cottus ricei), and deepwater sculpin (Myoxocephalus thompsoni) are abundant fishes in Lake Superior. Slimy and spoonhead sculpins occupy a zone from near shore to depths of 210 m but are generally most abundant in waters 50 to 90 m deep. Deepwater sculpins are found in waters from 15 to 407 m deep and are most abundant at depths greater than 70 m. All three species of sculpins eat mainly burrowing amphipods (Pontoporeia affinis) although deepwater sculpins also eat substantial quantities of opossum shrimp (Mysis relicta). The three sculpins grow at similar rates. Among the fishes aged, the maximum age of slimy sculpins was 5 years, compared with 6 years for spoonhead sculpins, and 7 years for deepwater sculpins. Indirect evidence indicates that slimy and spoonhead sculpins spawn in the spring, and deepwater sculpins spawn in midwinter.
Quality of Life from a Transcultural Nursing Perspective

The author presents research findings derived from Leininger's theory of culture care diversity and universality bearing upon quality of life. She holds that since quality of life is culturally constituted and patterned, it needs to be studied and understood from a transcultural nursing perspective in order to advance nursing as a discipline and profession. Five major cultures are presented to illustrate culturally constituted dominant care patterns related to quality of life. These comparative data reflect more diversity than universality among the cultures. The author encourages nurse researchers to move beyond present-day overemphasis on individualism and to discover dominant transcultural care values and patterns of emic and etic knowledge focused on quality of life, health, and well-being.
Simplified robust high performance PID control algorithms

This paper presents a PID controller, which is augmented by dynamic terms to provide high performance, with guaranteed robustness. Building upon previous work done in the area for a PI controller, a simplification leads to a single tuning parameter above, what is required for a conventional controller. Results performed from simulation show that reductions of up to 85% based on absolute integral error criteria (IAE) can be achieved.
Electromechanical active suspension demonstration for off-road vehicles

The University of Texas Center for Electromechanics (UTCEM) has been developing active suspension technology for offroad and on-road vehicles since 1993. The UT-CEM approach employs fully controlled electromechanical (EM) actuators to control vehicle dynamics and passive springs to efficiently support vehicle static weight. The program has completed three phases (full scale proof-of-principle demonstration on a quartercar test rig; algorithm development on a four-corner test rig; and advanced EM linear actuator development) and is engaged in a full vehicle demonstration phase. Two full vehicle demonstrations are in progress: an off-road demonstration on a high mobility multiwheeled vehicle (HMMWV) and an on-road demonstration on a transit bus. HMMWV test results are indicating significant reductions in vehicle sprung mass accelerations with simultaneous increases in cross-country speed when compared to conventional passive suspension systems. Additionally, original projections of low power requirements for suspension actuators are being confirmed. The 3,400 kg (3.75 ton) vehicle being tested utilizes a 5 kW alternator to provide suspension power. Power conditioning circuits limit the continuous deliverable power to 4 kW, which corresponds to 1.2 kW/metric
ECOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS OF DIATOM CELL MOTILITY. I. CHARACTERIZATION OF MOTILITY AND ADHESION IN FOUR DIATOM SPECIES1

To better determine the ecological role of motility in pennate diatoms, we quantitatively characterized several motility and adhesion properties of four species of motile pennate diatoms (Craticula sp., Pinnularia sp., Nitzschia sp., and Stauroneis sp.) isolated from the same freshwater pond. Using computer-assisted video microscopy, we measured speed, size/shape, functional adhesion, path curvature, and light sensitivity for these species, each of which shows a distinctive set of motile behaviors. The average speeds of Stauroneis, Pinnularia, Nitzschia, and Craticula cells are 4.6, 5.3, 10.4, and 10.0 μm · s−1, respectively. Craticula and Nitzschia cells move in a relatively straight path ( 1 day for Nitzschia and Stauroneis. Direction reversal at light/dark boundaries, which appears to be the main contributor to diatom Phototaxis, is most responsive for Craticula, Pinnularia, and Nitzschia at wavelengths around 500 nm. Craticula and Nitzschia cells are the most sensitive in the photophobic response, with over 60% of these cells responding to a 30-1x light/dark boundary at 500 nm, whereas Pinnularia cells are only moderately responsive at this irradiance, showing a maximal response of approximately 30% of cells at 450 nm. Stauroneis cells, in contrast, had a maximal photosensitive response at 700 nm, suggesting that this cell type may use a different response mechanism than the other three cell types. In addition, Craticula and Pinnularia show a net movement out of the light spot when illuminated at 650 nm, whereas Stauroneis shows a net movement out of the light spot when illuminated at 450 nm. Such quantitative characterizations of species-specific responses to environmental stimuli should give us a firm foundation for future studies analyzing the behavior of interspecies diatom competition for limited light or nutrient resources.
Socialización política y juventud: el caso de las trayectorias ciudadanas de los estudiantes universitarios de la región de Valparaíso

El presente articulo se propone analizar los procesos de socializacion politica que experimentan los jovenes universitarios de Valparaiso a traves de sus trayectorias ciudadanas. El problema de investigacion parte del supuesto de que los estudiantes universitarios constituyen los sujetos en los cuales se pueden identificar y analizar las transformaciones estructurales y subjetivas por las que atraviesa la sociedad chilena. El estudio supuso la aplicacion de 832 cuestionarios a jovenes de ambos sexos estudiantes de universidades tradicionales y privadas de la Region de Valparaiso. Los resultados se presentan a traves de cinco dimensiones: condiciones juveniles, socializacion politica, identificacion politica, participacion politica y legitimacion de lo politico. El trabajo concluye con un analisis de la relacion que establecen los jovenes universitarios con la participacion politica, tanto de tipo convencional como no convencional
A possibilistic approach to clustering

The clustering problem is cast in the framework of possibility theory. The approach differs from the existing clustering methods in that the resulting partition of the data can be interpreted as a possibilistic partition, and the membership values can be interpreted as degrees of possibility of the points belonging to the classes, i.e., the compatibilities of the points with the class prototypes. An appropriate objective function whose minimum will characterize a good possibilistic partition of the data is constructed, and the membership and prototype update equations are derived from necessary conditions for minimization of the criterion function. The advantages of the resulting family of possibilistic algorithms are illustrated by several examples. >
A Comparison of Nanometer-Scale Growth and Dissolution Features on Natural and Synthetic Dolomite Crystals: Implications for the Origin of Dolomite

Abstract This paper describes experiments in which mechanisms of crystal growth are inferred from the surface nanotopography of natural and synthetic dolomite using atomic force and scanning electron microscopy. Synthetic dolomite was formed by replacement of calcite at 218°C in Mg–Ca–Cl solutions. The first products to form during dolomite synthesis experiments, as detected with X-ray diffraction (XRD), are invariably poorly ordered (nonideal) dolomite. As the reaction proceeds, the degree of cation order increases, yet the products remain relatively disordered. Upon examination, the surfaces of nonideal dolomite are covered with mounds 10–200 nm wide and 1–20 nm high. Following depletion of the calcite reactant, dolomite becomes relatively well ordered and stoichiometric (ideal). The surfaces of ideal dolomite are covered with broad, flat layers separated by steps that measure tenths to tens of nanometers high. Comparison of natural and synthetic dolomite surfaces after etching in 0.5% H2SO4 for 10–20 seconds indicates that high-temperature synthetic and low-temperature natural nonideal dolomite surfaces are covered with mounds identical to the growth features found on unetched nonideal synthetic dolomite. In contrast, synthetic and low-temperature ideal dolomite surfaces, when etched, are characterized by flat layers with deep, euhedral etch pits. These results suggest that despite the wide range in formation conditions, natural and synthetic dolomites form by the same growth mechanisms. Furthermore, the two different surface nanotopographies described here are consistent with a model in which nonideal dolomite forms by precipitation of amorphous mounds that quickly crystallize to nonideal dolomite while ideal dolomite later replaces nonideal dolomite and grows by spiral growth.
Sliding mode control of the Cuk converter

A sliding mode control strategy is proposed for a third order Cuk converter. Conventional switching surfaces for DC-DC converters of order greater than two contain one state variable set equal to a constant. This paper analyzes switching surfaces that are a linear combination of up to three state variables. These switching surfaces allow much more flexibility in controlling the output voltage and produce a response with small overshoot and a reduced reaching time period, as compared to the conventional surfaces used in earlier studies. Simulation and experimental results are reported. The results verify that the output voltage can be controlled and maintained at the desired level using the sliding mode control schemes developed.
Integer linear programming neural networks for job-shop scheduling

The authors present an integer linear programming neural network (ILPNN) based on a modified Tank and Hopfield neural network model to solve job-shop scheduling, an NP-complete constraint satisfaction problem. The constraints of the job-shop problem are formulated as a set of integer linear equations. The cost function for minimization is the total starting times of all jobs subject to precedence constraints. In the authors' approach, the set of integer linear equations is solved by an iterative linear programming with integer adjustments (ILPIA) technique, without a branch-and-bound search. In particular, the linear and nonlinear zero-one variables are represented by linear sigmoid and nonlinear high-gain amplifiers with a response of a step function, respectively. Simulations based on solving a linear differential equation show that the ILPNN approach produces optimal or near-optimal solutions, although it does not guarantee optimal solutions. The authors also analyze the hardware implementation of ILPNNs and study the feasibility of this approach for large-scale problems. >
Modulation of inhibitory activity by nitric oxide in the thalamus.

The dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (dLGN) is essential for the transfer of visual information from the retina to visual cortex, and inhibitory mechanisms can play a critical in regulating such i...
A two-layer microwave FET structure for improved characteristics

The characteristics of a proposed two-layer short-channel FET structure are analyzed and compared with those of the conventional structure. The new structure provides improved amplifier linearity and enhanced unity-current-gain frequency. Suitable combinations of doping in the two layers and gate-to-drain electrode separation can effectively reduce the device noise arising due to hot electrons.
Environmental conditions that lead to invention among engineers: a preliminary investigation

Existing studies of creativity have been carried out primarily by psychologists. While their research has contributed some very enlightening work in attempting to decipher what goes on in the creator's head, the focus is almost entirely on the arts and some of the sciences. The present work in progress considers invention as a form of human creativity within the profession of engineering, a profession closely associated with invention. In a society that increasingly depends on technical solutions to its problems, the need for future engineers who are more inventive and creative is obvious. The scope of this research includes a qualitative search of our general understanding of inventiveness and potential use of that understanding to improve engineering education. A preliminary model is developed of what environmental conditions encourage or discourage invention. Recommendations are generated as to how to foster and encourage invention among engineering students.
Depressed continental hypsometry behind oceanic trenches: A clue to subduction controls on sea-level change

In the western Pacific there is a strong spatial correlation between areas predicted to be depressed because of subducted slabs and the location of flooded continental crust. Elevation of continental crust behind oceanic trenches and above subducting slabs is 400-500 m lower than the global average, and hypsometry of this crust is shallower and flatter than the global average, especially for crust just below sea level. Reduction in continental elevation in such areas is dependent on distance from the trench: the closer crust is to the trench (and hence to the slab), the greater is the reduction in average elevation. Shape of the hypsometry is consistent with a finite-element model with active sedimentation above a slab that becomes older with time. The results strongly suggest that dynamic distortion of Earth's surface by slabs may have been a fundamental control on location of shallow seas through geologic time.
The Biologists' Forum: Different faculty-student perspectives on undergraduate research programs

Abstract Perspective: The relationship of aspects of a subject to each other and to a whole. Subjective evaluation of relative significance: Point of view. Webster's II New Riverside Dictionary
A Decade Analysis of Trends and Outcomes of Male vs Female Patients Who Underwent Bariatric Surgery

Background Male obesity rates are now estimated to be equal to female obesity rates. Despite this, men constitute a minority of patients undergoing bariatric surgery. The aim of this study was to examine the national trends and outcomes of bariatric surgery in male patients compared with female patients. Study Design The Nationwide Inpatient Sample database was reviewed for obese patients undergoing bariatric surgery between 2002 and 2011. Outcomes were analyzed according to sex. Main outcomes measures were patient demographics, length of stay, risk-adjusted inpatient morbidity and mortality, and hospital charge. Results During the 10-year period, 810,999 patients underwent bariatric surgery; 19.3% were male and 80.7% were female. The percentage of male patients increased from 15.4% in 2002 to 21.7% in 2011. Mean age was significantly older for males (46 ± 11 years vs 43 ± 11 years; p Conclusions The number of male patients undergoing bariatric surgery in the past decade continues to be a small fraction compared with the number of female patients. Men undergoing bariatric surgery tend to have higher severity of illness, with higher risk-adjusted serious morbidity and mortality rates. Additional studies are necessary to examine barriers in obtaining treatment for obese men.
If You're Not at the Table, You're on the Menu: A Rallying Cry for Fellows-in-Training.

Every time I walk between the U.S. Capitol and the Supreme Court in Washington, D.C., I feel inspired. Its magnificence, its place in history, and its importance to our everyday practice of medicine and cardiology: this is, after all, what our founding fathers intended. They wanted Americans to
Discussion: The Changing Role of Production Economics

This series of papers has traced the development of production economics from its beginnings in intuitive problem-solving. With the addition of the theory of the firm and sophisticated tools of analysis, the scope of the trade has been broadened to include location of production, policy, trade, and development aspects. Production economics, as here defined, includes any area where the theory of the firm can be applied to solving economic problems. A definition or delineation of the field of production economics seemed to raise problems for both Dr. Butcher and Dr. Ruttan. Dr. Butcher's paper discussed the many areas of application of the tools of the production economist. Dr. Ruttan on the other hand seemed to imply that pro-
Attitudes of Michigan Physicians and the Public toward Legalizing Physician-Assisted Suicide and Voluntary Euthanasia

Background There has been a continuing public debate about assisted suicide and the proper role, if any, of physicians in this practice. Legislative bans and various forms of legalization have been proposed. Methods We mailed questionnaires to three stratified random samples of Michigan physicians in specialties likely to involve the care of terminally ill patients: 500 in the spring of 1994, 500 in the summer of 1994, and 600 in the spring of 1995. Similar questionnaires were mailed to stratified random samples of Michigan adults: 449 in the spring of 1994 and 899 in the summer of 1994. Several different questionnaire forms were used, all of which included questions about whether physician-assisted suicide should be banned in Michigan or legalized under certain conditions. Results Usable questionnaires were returned by 1119 of 1518 physicians eligible for the study (74 percent), and 998 of 1307 eligible adults in the sample of the general public (76 percent). Asked to choose between legalization of physi...
Effects of Equation of State and Transport on the Modeling of Pulsed Plasma Accelerators

High power pulsed plasma accelerators are a candidate for nuclear powered propulsion systems. Numerical modeling is an important part of the overall research and development process for these accelerators. MACH2, a 2D resistive MHD code, is currently being used as part of a feasibility study for a two-stage high power pulsed plasma thruster for interplanetary propulsion. It is beneficial to qualify the ability of our 2D models to predict plasma behavior in similar devices. In this paper, we study the effects of fidelity in the equation of state and transport models on the time and spatial evolution of the magnetic field in a parallel plate geometry pulsed plasma thruster. We have found that the calorically perfect ideal gas equation of state is not sufficient for capturing experimental trends, and that the choice of resistivity model can drastically change the current sheet speed.