cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Optimal Ranking Regime Analysis of Intra- to Multidecadal U.S. Climate Variability. Part II: Precipitation and Streamflow*

AbstractIn Part I of this paper, the optimal ranking regime (ORR) method was used to identify intradecadal to multidecadal (IMD) regimes in U.S. climate division temperature data during 1896–2012. Here, the method is used to test for annual and seasonal precipitation regimes during that same period. Water-year mean streamflow rankings at 125 U.S. Hydro-Climatic Data Network gauge stations are also evaluated during 1939–2011. The precipitation and streamflow regimes identified are compared with ORR-derived regimes in the Pacific decadal oscillation (PDO), the Atlantic multidecadal oscillation (AMO), and indices derived from gridded SST anomaly (SSTA) analysis data. Using a graphic display approach that allows for the comparison of IMD climate regimes in multiple time series, an interdecadal cycle in western precipitation is apparent after 1980, as is a similar cycle in northwestern streamflow. Before 1980, IMD regimes in northwestern streamflow and annual precipitation are in approximate antiphase with the...
Exploring the Communication of Evangelical Families: The Association Between Evangelical Gender Role Ideology and Family Communication Patterns

This study examines the relationship between the Evangelical gender role ideologies termed Complementarianism and Egalitarianism and conversation- and conformity-orientation communication patterns stemming from the general theory of family communication. A nonrandom group (N = 124) of Evangelical parents were surveyed using a cross-sectional, self-report survey design. Specific differences were discovered in the perceptions of communication in families for individuals holding conservative Complementarian and progressive Egalitarian gender role ideologies. Evangelical parents who endorsed a more Egalitarian family gender role ideology reported greater use of conversation-oriented communication patterns in their families whereas respondents holding a more Complementarian family gender role ideology reported more use of conformity-oriented communication patterns in their families.
The transmittance by a hollow specularly reflecting cylindrical light pipe of isotropically incident radiation

Abstract A simple expression for the transmittance of a hollow cylindrical light pipe irradiated by isotropic incident radiation as a function of pipe size and inner wall reflectance is derived using a method based on the geometrical factor of particle telescopes. The predictions are confirmed by both a Monte Carlo calculation and experimental measurements.
The Significance and Relative Contributions of Demographic, Residence, and Socioeconomic Status in Nineteenth-Century U.S. BMI Variation

Abstract Sources of nineteenth-century body mass index variation have received increased attention in economic and historical studies. Although modern body mass indexes increased during the twentieth century, nineteenth-century black and white body mass indexes were distributed symmetrically. Blacks in the Great Lakes and whites from the Southeast were more likely to be underweight, and blacks in Kentucky and whites in the Upper South and Far West were more likely to be overweight and obese. Farmers had greater body mass index values than workers in other occupations. Factors individuals did not control—such as age, race, and height—were the primary sources of nineteenth-century body mass index variation; choice characteristics—such as residence and occupations—had little to do with body mass index variation during U.S. economic development.
DISCRIMINATING BETWEEN THE DISPLACIVE VS. ORDER-DISORDER CHARACTER OF A PHASE TRANSITION BY MAGIC ANGLE SPINNING NMR

Abstract Using squaric acid (H2C4O4) as an example, it is shown that the temperature dependence of the isotropic chemical shift (δISO), as measured by magic angle spinning (MAS) NMR, can serve as a probe of the displacive vs. order-disorder character of a phase transition. It is also found that the utilization of single crystals in the MAS measurements leads to significantly narrower peaks than using powders. In the case of MAS on squaric acid. single crystals exhibit a four-fold narrowing of the 13C peaks, as compared to those from powders. This additional gain in resolution has made it possible to measure a sharp anomaly in the δISO at the paraelectric-antiferroelectric phase transition of squaric acid (Tc ∼ 373 K). This anomaly is interpreted as a direct evidence that the transition mechanism involves a displacive component for the hydrogens as T- < Tc, suggesting that MAS/NMR can indeed serve as a new complement to the current methodologies for investigating phase transitions.
Spectral observations of 19 weathered and 23 fresh NEAs and their correlations with orbital parameters

Abstract Results of our visible to near-infrared spectrophotometric observations of 41 near-Earth asteroids (NEAs) are reported. These moderate-resolution spectra, along with 14 previously published spectra from our earlier survey [Hicks, M.D., Fink, U., Grundy, W.M., 1998. Icarus 133, 69–78] show a preponderance of spectra consistent with ordinary chondrites (23 NEAs with this type of spectrum, along with 19 S-types and 13 in other taxonomic groups). There exists statistically significant evidence for orbit-dependent trends in our data. While S-type NEAs from our survey reside primarily in (1) Amor orbits or (2) Aten or Apollo orbits which do not cross the asteroid main-belt, the majority of objects with spectra consistent with ordinary chondrites in our survey are in highly eccentric Apollo orbits which enter the asteroid main-belt. This trend toward fresh, relatively unweathered NEAs with ordinary chondrite type spectra in highly eccentric Apollo orbits is attributed to one or a combination of three possible causes: (1) the chaotic nature of NEA orbits can easily result in high eccentricity orbits/large aphelion distances so that they can enter the collisionally enhanced environment in the main-belt, exposing fresh surfaces, (2) they have recently been injected into such orbits after a collision in the main-belt, or (3) such objects cross the orbits of several terrestrial planets, causing tidal disruption events that expose fresh surfaces.
A rigorous method to calculate the rising speed of gas kick

The rising speed of gas kick is an important parameter in well control operation. The position of the gas kick dictates the pressure at the casing shoe, which is usually the weakest point in the openhole section, and the wellhead pressure, which is one of the key factors affecting the blowout preventer and choke folder. In this research, we derived a rigorous model to estimate the rising speed of gas kick. Starting from the force analysis and mass conservation, we developed equations to calculate the forces exerting on the gas kick. With the mass of the gas kick, the rising speed of the gas kick is calculated. The effect of wellbore temperature profile on the rising of the gas kick is taken into account in the derivation. Before the development of this model, the estimation of gas kick position is commonly based on experience. In many cases, the experience alone is not good enough for well control. The proposed model provides a new approach with solid theoretical base to characterize the rising of gas kick in the hole. It makes the procedure of the well control simple and makes drilling engineers feel more comfortable to control the well. The new model can be combined with engineers experience to predict the downhole situation, shut-in casing pressure, and mud rate as a functions of position of gas kick. Any deviation from the forecast indicates accidents or downhole problems. Therefore, the proposed model is a valuable tool to diagnose the problems in well control.
A high temperature catalytic membrane reactor for ethane dehydrogenation

A high temperature catalytic membrane reactor, containing a Pt impregnated alumina ceramic membrane tube in a shell-and-tube configuration, was used to study dehydrogenation reactions. Experiments in this membrane reactor in the temperature range of 450–600°C, with the ethane dehydrogenation reaction to produce ethylene, show reactor conversions up to 6 times higher than equilibrium conversions. This shift in equilibrium is due to the selective permeation of one of the reaction products, i.e. hydrogen, according to Knudsen diffusion. In the experiments we have utilized a trans-membrane pressure difference and an inert sweep gas on the low pressure side of the membrane.
Marine bacteria in deep Arctic and Antarctic ice cores: a proxy for evolution in oceans over 300 million generations

Abstract. Using fluorescence spectrometry to map autofluorescence of chlorophyll (Chl) and tryptophan (Trp) versus depth in polar ice cores in the US National Ice Core Laboratory, we found that the Chl and Trp concentrations often showed an annual modulation of up to 25%, with peaks at depths corresponding to local summers. Using epifluorescence microscopy (EFM) and flow cytometry (FCM) triggered on red fluorescence at 670 nm to study microbes from unstained melts of the polar ice, we inferred that picocyanobacteria may have been responsible for the red fluorescence in the cores. Micron-size bacteria in all ice melts from Arctic and Antarctic sites showed FCM patterns of scattering and of red vs. orange fluorescence (interpreted as due to Chl vs. phycoerythrin (PE)) that bore similarities to patterns of cultures of unstained picocyanobacteria Prochlorococcus and Synechococcus. Concentrations in ice from all sites were low, but measurable at ~ 1 to ~ 103 cells cm−3. Calibrations showed that FCM patterns of mineral grains and volcanic ash could be distinguished from microbes with high efficiency by triggering on scattering instead of by red fluorescence. Average Chl and PE autofluorescence intensities showed no decrease per cell with time during up to 150 000 yr of storage in glacial ice. Taking into account the annual modulation of ~ 25% and seasonal changes of ocean temperatures and winds, we suggest that picocyanobacteria are wind-transported year-round from warmer ocean waters onto polar ice. Ice cores offer the opportunity to study evolution of marine microbes over ~ 300 million generations by analysing their genomes vs. depth in glacial ice over the last 700 000 yr as frozen proxies for changes in their genomes in oceans.
Atomic Layer Deposition of SrO: Substrate and Temperature Effects

The atomic layer deposition (ALD) of SrO was conducted on various oxide surfaces by using strontium bis(tri-isopropylcyclopentadienyl) and water at deposition temperatures of 200 and 250°C. The initial and steady growth behaviors were studied by in-situ spectroscopic ellipsometry and ex-situ X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. For initial growth, the growth per cycle (GPC) of SrO not only depends on the concentration of hydroxyl groups but also the formation of interfacial Sr-O-Si bonds. For the steady growth, in-situ annealing was used to enhance the growth rate and multiple growth regions were identified.
MSIsensor: microsatellite instability detection using paired tumor-normal sequence data

Motivation: Microsatellite instability (MSI) is an important indicator of larger genome instability and has been linked to many genetic diseases, including Lynch syndrome. MSI status is also an independent prognostic factor for favorable survival in multiple cancer types, such as colorectal and endometrial. It also informs the choice of chemotherapeutic agents. However, the current PCR–electrophoresis-based detection procedure is laborious and time-consuming, often requiring visual inspection to categorize samples. We developed MSIsensor, a Cþþ program for automatically detecting somatic microsatellite changes. It computes length distributions of microsatellites per site in paired tumor and normal sequence data, subsequently using these to statistically compare observed distributions in both samples. Comprehensive testing indicates MSIsensor is an efficient and effective tool for deriving MSI status from standard tumor-normal paired sequence data. Availability and implementation: https://github.com/ding-lab/ msisensor
Nestmate recognition in leptothoracine ants : testing for effects of queen number, colony size and species of intruder

Abstract The aggressiveness of the facultatively polygynous and polydomous ant, Leptothorax ambiguus Emery, was measured in response to alien conspecific and heterospecific (L. longispinosus Roger) workers. Queenless, monogynous and polygynous nests showed no significant differences in aggressiveness. However, larger nests were significantly more aggressive than smaller nests and heterospecifics were attacked more frequently and more intensively than conspecifics. Regularly polygynous species are often less aggressive than strictly monogynous species, and the absence of a similar relationship within this facultatively polygynous species suggests that queen number and reduced genetic relatedness may not be proximate causes of this correlation, but that differing (perhaps alternate) life history strategies among monogynous and polygynous species might result in differential selection on aggressiveness. Alternatively, genetic relatedness in polygynous L. ambiguus nests might not be low enough to produce an effect, or might be so variable that any effect is difficult to detect. Since competition should be higher within than between species, stronger aggression between species is paradoxical and may indicate that competition is not sufficiently reduced to influence aggressiveness or that the intensity of competition has little influence on nest defence.
Development and preliminary evaluation of the existential meaning scale.

Purpose:The aim of this study was to develop and examine the psychometric properties of the Existential Meaning Scale (EMS). Findings:Construct validity of the EMS was examined through factor analysis and correlational analyses with theoretically related instruments. After several weak items were deleted, the 20-item scale had a Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of > .80 in an overall sample of 418 individuals. Scores on the EMS were significantly lower in a sample of persons with HIV-1 infection than in the general population samples. Conclusion:Although its initial psychometric properties were satisfactory, additional validation of the EMS is necessary in other clinical populations to examine further the psychometric properties of the EMS. In addition, further examination of the responsiveness of the EMS over time is needed to evaluate its potential utility in longitudinal trials.
Thirty-eight single nucleotide polymorphism markers for high-throughput genotyping of chum salmon

We characterize 38 single nucleotide polymorphism genotyping assays for chum salmon ( Oncorhynchus keta ), an important species for both commercial and subsistence fisheries in western Alaska. These assays are based on the 5′′ -nuclease reaction and thus facilitate high-throughput genotyping with minimal optimization time. Minor allele frequency differences (∆ ∆ ∆ q ) among collections were between 0.01 and 0.50 resulting in per locus F ST estimates of 0.00–0.08 with an average of 0.03.
Integriertes Informationsmanagement: Das IT-Servicezentrum der Universität Augsburg

Die Universitat Augsburg verfolgt seit dem Jahr 2003 das Ziel, durch eine konsequente Kooperation der IuK-Anbieter alle an der Erstellung von IuK-Dienstleistungen beteiligten Einrichtungen und Personen zu einer, durch eine IuK-Gesamtstrategie aufeinander abgestimmten, gemeinsam gestalteten Leistungserbringung zusammenzufuhren. Das hierfur zu Beginn des Jahres 2005 initiierte Projekt wird unter dem Namen „Integriertes Informationsmanagement an der Universitat Augsburg: Aufbau eines IT-Servicezentrums (ITS)“ gefuhrt und seit dem 1.1.2006 von der Deutschen Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) im Rahmen der Forderinitiative „Leistungszentren fur Forschungsinformation“ gefordert.
Guidelines for optimizing system performance for 20 WDM channels propagating through a cascade of EDFAs

Erbium-doped fiber amplifiers (EDFA's) are revolutionizing both long-distance and distribution based communications. Furthermore, optically-amplified systems can have a manifold increase in the total capacity by incorporating wavelength-division-multiplexing (WDM). However, one difficulty in implementing a WDM system incorporating EDFA's is that the EDFA gain is wavelength dependent whereas the link loss between amplifiers is wavelength independent, resulting in a severe signal-to-noise (SNR) differential between channels after a cascade of EDFA's. Moreover, only single-channel systems can incorporate narrow optical filters after each amplifier to eliminate unwanted amplified spontaneous emission (ASE). In general, it remains ambiguous as to what optimal values should be chosen for the many system variables in an optically-amplified WDM system to maintain a high SNR and a low degree of SNR differential. >
Successful treatment of paraphilic coercive disorder (a rapist) with fluoxetine hydrochloride

A rape assailant with intrusive and persistent paraphilic rape fantasies was successfully treated with the antidepressant fluoxetine hydrochloride. Symptoms of impulsiveness, anxiety and depression were also markedly improved.
Extended access to nicotine self-administration leads to dependence: Circadian measures, withdrawal measures, and extinction behavior in rats

The present study characterized nicotine intake, circadian patterns of food and water intake, precipitated somatic signs of withdrawal, and extinction of nicotine-seeking behavior in rats with 23-h access to intravenous self-administration (IVSA). Separate groups of animals were allowed access to nicotine IVSA (0.015, n = 9; 0.03, n = 14; 0.06, n = 16; mg/kg/0.1 ml infusion/s; fixed ratio 1) and trained to nosepoke for food and water 23 h/day for 40 consecutive days. Somatic signs of nicotine withdrawal were examined following saline or mecamylamine administration (1.5 mg/kg i.p.), and extinction of nicotine-seeking behavior was assessed. A dose-dependent decrease in lever responding and an increase in nicotine intake were observed, with the highest nicotine dose producing the lowest amount of lever responding and the highest amount of nicotine intake. Nicotine acutely reduced diurnal and nocturnal food intake, producing smaller and fewer meals, and an increased rate of eating. Differences in rate of nicotine intake between the light and dark phase decreased significantly, especially in rats receiving higher unit nicotine doses (0.03 and 0.06 mg/kg), along with long-term decreases in the circadian profile and amplitude of feeding. Mecamylamine precipitated robust withdrawal signs, the magnitude of which was positively correlated with the total amount of self-administered nicotine. Extinction of nicotine-seeking behavior was observed and was facilitated by removal of nicotine-associated cues. The results demonstrate that rats will self-administer nicotine to the point of producing dependence, as measured by somatic signs, resistance to extinction, and measures of food intake.
Path Integral Simulations of Proton Transfer Reactions in Aqueous Solution Using Combined QM/MM Potentials

A bisection sampling method was implemented in path integral simulations of chemical reactions in solution in the framework of the quantized classical path approach. In the present study, we employ a combined quantum mechanical and molecular mechanical (QM/MM) potential to describe the potential energy surface and the path integral method to incorporate nuclear quantum effects. We examine the convergence of the bisection method for two proton-transfer reactions in aqueous solution at room temperature. The first reaction involves the symmetrical proton transfer between an ammonium ion and an ammonia molecule. The second reaction is the ionization of nitroethane by an acetate ion. To account for nuclear quantum mechanical corrections, it is sufficient to quantize the transferring light atom in the ammonium ion-ammonia reaction, while it is necessary to also quantize the donor and acceptor atoms in the nitroethane-acetate ion reaction. Kinetic isotope effects have been computed for isotopic substitution of t...
Analysis of macrophyte indicator variation as a function of sampling, temporal, and stressor effects

Abstract Biological indicators that signal changes in lake condition are essential tools for guiding resource management decisions. Macrophyte-based indicators have traditionally been selected and evaluated in the context of nutrient-based stressors, although the need to evaluate indicators that are sensitive to climate stressors has been increasingly relevant. Moreover, indicators should ideally exhibit minimal sampling variation and have low natural temporal variation so there is high power to detect changes in the mean value over time. Eight macrophyte indicators were estimated in 23 Minnesota (USA) lakes using four years of repeated surveys to estimate sampling and temporal variation, response to development (phosphorus concentration) and climate stress (annual growing degree days), and power to detect significant change at various annual sampling intervals. Indicators included a macrophyte index of biotic integrity, floristic quality index, maximum depth of growth, total species richness, common species richness, mean richness, and frequency occurrence of rooted species and Chara sp. Overall, regression and smoothed additive models indicated significant relationships of indicators to total lake phosphorus and mean annual growing degree days. The macrophyte index of biotic integrity, floristic quality index, and the frequency rooted species had minimal sampling variation in this study, were responsive to development or climate stress, and had low annual variation (coefficients of variation 0.08, 0.10, and 0.19, respectively) resulting in high to moderate power (>50%) for detecting significant change over a 20 year period. Results from these analyses will facilitate the use of precise and powerful indicators that respond to stressors that are of concern for the management of freshwater glacial lakes.
Mitochondrial biology and oxidative stress in Parkinson disease pathogenesis

Parkinson disease (PD) is associated with progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra, as well as with more-widespread neuronal changes that cause complex and variable motor and nonmotor symptoms. Recent rapid advances in PD genetics have revealed a prominent role for mitochondrial dysfunction in the pathogenesis of the disease, and the products of several PD-associated genes, including SNCA, Parkin, PINK1, DJ-1, LRRK2 and HTR2A, show a degree of localization to the mitochondria under certain conditions. Impaired mitochondrial function is likely to increase oxidative stress and might render cells more vulnerable to this and other related processes, including excitotoxicity. The mitochondria, therefore, represent a highly promising target for the development of disease biomarkers by use of genetic, biochemical and bioimaging approaches. Novel therapeutic interventions that modify mitochondrial function are currently under development, and a large phase III clinical trial is underway to examine whether high-dose oral coenzyme Q10 will slow disease progression. In this Review, we examine evidence for the roles of mitochondrial dysfunction and increased oxidative stress in the neuronal loss that leads to PD and discuss how this knowledge might further improve patient management and aid in the development of 'mitochondrial therapy' for PD.
Prediction of stitch crack evolution and gas permeability in multidirectional composite laminates

Stitch cracks in multidirectional laminates were observed by many researchers in the literature. In the present work, the damage evolution in multidirectional laminates is investigated using the strain energy release rate concept. Two methods are used to compute the strain energy release rate. The effects of ply angle and ply thickness on stitch crack evolution are investigated. Then, a model based on Darcy’s law for porous materials is developed for predicting gas permeability in composite laminates containing microcracks and delaminations. Gas permeability is presented as a function of crack density and crack intersection area. Then the intersection areas formed by crack opening displacements are computed using 3D finite element analysis. The progressive gas permeability in multidirectional laminates is predicted and compared with the gas permeability predicted in the cross-ply laminates in our previous work.
Kidney function after solitary pancreas transplantation.

Abstract Preserving kidney function in patients after solitary pancreas transplantation (SPTx) is an important consideration, yet various factors may negatively impact long-term function of the native kidneys or kidney allograft. To determine changes in kidney function over time in a series of patients receiving SPTx, we conducted a retrospective analysis and tracked changes in serum creatinine (SCr) and calculated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) from baseline to 6 months, 1 year, or 3 years after SPTx in a series of pancreas after kidney transplants PAK; ( n = 61) and pancreas transplants alone PTA; ( n = 27) performed at our institution. The mean follow-up for the PAK and PTA groups was 3.4 and 2.7 years, respectively. In this series, 8% of patients after SPTx developed significant kidney failure, defined by either initiation of dialysis or receiving a kidney transplant (PAK-6, PTA-1). Twenty seven percent of SPTx patients with a baseline GFR 2.2, dialysis, or kidney transplant, whereas no patients with a baseline GFR > 60 developed significant kidney dysfunction. In the PAK group, the GFR did not show significant deterioration over time. In contrast to relatively stable kidney function in PAK patients, PTA patients experienced overall significantly greater rates of decline over time. GFR in PTA patients decreased from 78 ± 19 (40 to 114) mL/min/1.73 m 2 at baseline to 65 ± 20 at 1 year ( P = .006), while SCr increased from 1.03 ± 0.25 mg/dL to 1.28 ± 0.43 over the same time period ( P = .012). These data show that kidney function may deteriorate after SPTx and proper patient selection may reduce the frequency of this complication.
A two-level model predictive control formulation for stabilization and optimization

In this paper, we present a novel MPC algorithm, which has a two-level hierarchical structure. For the lower level control objective of stabilization, no optimization is involved, making it computationally efficient. For the higher-level control objective of achieving an economic target, on-line optimization is performed with any desired objective function and control horizon without affecting the stability of the closed-loop system. This higher-level optimization problem does not have to be solved within one sampling period, making the overall algorithm computationally attractive. The proposed two-level algorithm is illustrated with a benchmark problem.
Testing of Glove Efficacy against Sprayed Isocyanate Coatings Utilizing a Reciprocating Permeation Panel

Objectives Modify a permeation panel to evaluate dermal protective clothing for resistance to sprayed coatings with minimal variability in spray paint loading across the test panel. Determine isocyanate protection effectiveness of natural rubber latex (5 mil or 0.13mm), nitrile rubber (5 mil or 0.13mm), and butyl rubber (13 mil or 0.33mm) glove materials against a commonly used automotive clear coat formulation. The latex and nitrile gloves were the type used by the local autobody spray painters. Methods Glove materials were tested by spraying paint onto an automated reciprocating permeation panel (permeation panel II). Temperature, relative humidity, and spray conditions were controlled to optimize paint loading homogeneity as evaluated by gravimetric analysis. Isocyanate permeation was measured using 1-(2-pyridyl)-piperazine-coated fiber-glass filters analyzed by a modified version of the OSHA 42/PV2034 methods. Results Latex exhibited a higher permeation rate compared with nitrile for isocyanates (1,6-hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI) and isophorone diisocyanate monomers) and both materials presented permeation at all of the time points suggesting a fast isocyanate breakthrough. Butyl material exhibited no permeation or breakthrough for isocyanates under the tested conditions. The spray application at 69±8°F was optimally homogeneous at 45±0.5mg weight of dry clear coat per 5cm(2). Conclusions The permeation panel II is a reliable method to assess dermal protective clothing performance against polymerizing coatings. Commonly used 5-mil (0.13-mm) latex and nitrile gloves were determined to be ineffective barriers against the isocyanates found in a commonly used clear-coat formulation while butyl gloves were protective.
The Effect of Curing on the Thermomechanical Properties of BPDA-PDA Polyimide Thin Films

The effect of the heating rate during curing on the thermal expansivity and mechanical properties of poly(p-phenylene biphenyltetracarboximide) (BPDA-PDA) polyimide thin films has been investigated in the range from 3 to 40 µm, which is commonly used for packaging application. Structural characterization was carried out using birefringence and wide-angle x-ray diffraction (WAXD) techniques. The morphology and packing order are found to be strongly influenced by the heating rate and, to a lesser extent, by the film thickness. The themomechanical properties of the polyimide films show an overall variation consistent with the changes in the molecular packing, thus demonstrating a close structure-property correlation. For slow-cure films, the variation of the molecular order is almost independent of film thickness. In contrast, the molecular order for the fast-cured films strongly depends on the thickness. The in-plane chain orientation decreases, but crystallinity increases with increasing film thickness. The heating rate gives rise to an opposite effect on the morphology for thin (~ 5 µm) and thick films (~ 38 µm). For thin films, high heating rate yields a high degree of crystallinity and in-plane chain orientation of the polymeric chains, leading to low thermal expansion coefficient (TEC) and high mechanical strength. In contrast, high heating rate for the thicker film gives a low in-plane chain orientation, leading to high TEC and low mechanical strength. The close correlation between morphology and the thermomechanical properties such as Young’s modulus, stress-strain relationship, and lateral TEC is demonstrated.
Putting the visual system noise back in the picture

Computable expressions for the input-picture-equivalent contrast noise of the visual system are provided for the locally linear subclass of nonlinear models, where the internal model noise is allowed to be signal dependent. The equivalent-noise concept is thereby extended to many of the models developed to explain masking and discrimination among suprathreshold stimuli. For these models the equivalent noise depends on the masking stimulus, and its structure can be strongly determined by the representation of the masker at the level of the system at which the performance-limiting noise is generated. The expressions are applicable to the case of less-than-full-rank transformations. Pictures that have hypothetical visual-system noise projected back into them can provide insights into efficient picture-coding algorithms.
Complementary and alternative medicine in obstetrics.

Abstract Objective To identify, survey and review randomized controlled studies of the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) for obstetric treatment or health promotion. Methods The MEDLINE database was searched to identify randomized controlled trials of CAM treatment and therapies in obstetrics. Studies examining modalities for treatment or improvement of health status were reviewed. Results Fifty-four articles assessing a variety of health modalities met the criteria for inclusion. Acupressure and ginger for prenatal nausea and vomiting, moxibustion for version of breech presentation, sterile water injections for back pain relief in labor, and perineal massage to prevent perineal trauma have three or more studies demonstrating beneficial effect. Other interventions have been studied less, and evidence for them is limited. Conclusions Some CAM interventions have evidence of effectiveness for use in obstetric patients, while others require further investigation before they can be considered for use in practice.
Efficient plant regeneration of watermelon ( Citrullus lanatus Thunb.) via somatic embryogenesis and assessment of genetic fidelity using ISSR markers

A simple and effective somatic embryogenic system was established for watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) cv. ‘Arka Manik’. Embryogenic callus was obtained from leaf explants of 20-d-old in vitro-grown seedlings cultured on embryogenic callus induction medium. The highest frequency of embryogenic callus induction (96.8%) occurred on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 2.44 μM 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) and 2.27 μM thidiazuron (TDZ). Transfer of embryogenic calluses with proembryogenic masses to embryo maturation medium led to the asynchronous development of somatic embryos (SEs), which progressed from the globular stage to the cotyledonary stage. The maximum number of SEs/explant (16.1 ± 0.24) was obtained on MS medium supplemented with 2.44 μM 2,4-D, 2.27 μM TDZ, and 30 g L−1 sucrose. Plantlet conversion from cotyledonary-stage SEs was tested on different strengths of MS medium (quarter-, half-, and full-strength) lacking plant growth regulators. The highest frequencies of germination (91.5%) and survivability (82.1%) of plantlets were achieved on full-strength MS medium. Transverse sections of embryogenic callus revealed SE development from callus cells near the epidermis. Secondary SEs occasionally formed from globular-shaped primary embryos. Genetic fidelity of mother plants and ex vitro plants was confirmed by inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) markers. The present study is the first report on the use of molecular markers in in vitro culture of watermelon. The developed protocol facilitates rapid production of true-to-type watermelon plants by somatic embryogenesis and thus could serve to generate effective target material for genetic transformation protocols.
Neuropathologic Basis of White Matter Hyperintensity Accumulation (IN3-2.002)

OBJECTIVE: To examine the pathologic correlates of white matter hyperintensity (WMH) accumulation over time. BACKGROUND: Few studies have examined the neuropathologic correlates of cross-sectional WMH volumes observed on brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and longitudinal WMH trajectories. Furthermore, the relationship between Alzheimer disease pathology and WMH trajectories is not well understood. DESIGN/METHODS: Sixty-six elderly participants in the Oregon Brain Aging Study were included for having an autopsy, >1 MRI scan and the last MRI scan within 24 months of death. First, multiple regression analyses, adjusted for age at MRI and duration between MRI and death, were used to examine the association between cross-sectional WMH volume obtained on the MRI most proximal to death, and several neuropathologic measures including: myelin pallor, arteriosclerosis, microvascular disease, small vessel infarcts, large vessel infarcts, atherosclerosis, neurofibrillary tangle (NFT) and neuritic plaque (NP) scores. Second, mixed-effects models were used to examine the association between longitudinal trajectory of WMH accumulation over time and neuropathologic measures. Time interaction terms for measures of myelin pallor, arteriosclerosis, microvascular disease, small vessel infarcts, large vessel infarcts, atherosclerosis, NFT and NP scores, and APOE e4 presence were included. Analyses were adjusted for duration of follow up and age at death. RESULTS: Mean age at death was 94.54 (SD 5.45) years. Presence of more arteriosclerosis and small vessel infarcts were associated with larger cross-sectional WMH volume. No significant associations were observed with other pathologic measures. In the mixed-effects models, presence of more arteriosclerosis, myelin pallor and higher Braak score were associated with more WMH accumulation over time. CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that WMH burden observed on MRI scans in very old individuals reflects the degree of small vessel ischemic disease, while the accumulation of WMH over time is likely a reflection of both vascular and neurodegenerative pathology. Supported by: Office of Research and Development, Department of Veterans Affairs; NIH (1R01AG036772 , R01 AG024059 P30 AG08017). Disclosure: Dr. Erten-Lyons has nothing to disclose. Dr. Silbert has nothing to disclose. Dr. Mattek has nothing to disclose. Dr. Dodge has nothing to disclose. Dr. Green has nothing to disclose. Dr. Tran has nothing to disclose. Dr. Quinn has received personal compensation for activities with Novartis. Dr. Quinn has received research support from Elan Corporation, Baxter, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, and Pfizer Inc. Dr. Wild has nothing to disclose. Dr. Oken has received personal compensation for activities with Dr. Willmar Schwabe Pharmaceuticals. Dr. Woltjer has nothing to disclose. Dr. Kaye has received personal compensation for activities with Lily LZAM and LZAN clinical trials as a member of the Data Safety and Monitoring Board. Dr. Kaye has receied research support from Elan Corporation, Danone Medical, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Satoris, and Intel.
Final State Distributions of O2 Photodesorbed from TiO2(110)

The UV photodesorption of molecular oxygen from a reduced TiO2(110) single-crystal surface was investigated as a function of photon excitation energy, substrate temperature, and preannealing conditions. A pump-delayed-probe method using pulsed lasers for UV excitation (pump) and VUV ionization (probe) were used in conjunction with time-of-flight mass spectrometry to measure velocity distributions of the desorbing O2 molecules. The measured velocity distributions exhibit three distinct features, two of which are attributed to prompt desorption resulting in “fast” velocity distributions and one “slow” channel whose average kinetic energy tracks the surface temperature. The latter is assigned to trapping-desorption of photoexcited O2* which are trapped in the physisorption well prior to thermal desorption. The velocity distributions show no dependence on photon energy over the range studied (3.45−4.16 eV), consistent with a substrate-mediated, hole-capture desorption mechanism. The observed prompt desorption...
Multivehicle Spacing Along Smooth Curvilinear Paths

This paper presents an approach to spacing vehicles along an arbitrary path. Previous research by the authors has shown the development of formation control laws assuming constant distances between vehicles as viewed by inertial observers. However, that approach is not advantageous for spacing vehicles along an arbitrary reference trajectory. By defining along-path and perpendicular-to-path spacing errors, ideal trajectories can be found for each vehicle in the formation. A sliding-mode control law is used to track the ideal trajectories, which provides better performance than a simpler control form. Simulation results demonstrate feasibility of the approach for a five-vehicle formation.
New Peruvian Genus and a Generic Review of Andreninae (Hymenoptera: Apoidea: Andrenidae)

A new genus and species of andrenine bee, Alocandrena porteri , is described, and illustrated. The genera of Andreninae of the world are reviewed (with illustrations of Megandrena s.s.). Differences between the subfamilies Andreninae and Panurginae are discussed.
Selected Demographic Variables in Altruism

Individuals receiving "dropped" wallets (86 males and 2 females) at selected locations in Seattle were unobtrusively observed and sex of retriever, an age estimate, dress type, and location of drop were recorded. The return of an intact wallet ($1.25 in cash and contents such as pictures) was used as a measure of altruism. The wallets were dropped in the entrance to an "adult" bookstore (specializing in erotica) and in the entrance to a regular paperback bookstore, both locations in the downtown area. An identification card coded for location of drop with an address and telephone number was included so that wallets could be returned to the supposed owners. The extant research on altruism has thus far turned up few powerful personality influences (3). In this study, dress type (suit, casual, or work clothes) was used as a rough estimate of socioeconomic status and was significantly (X% 8.7, df = 2, p < .02) related to altruism. Of those in the "suic/sportcoat" category, i.e., wearing tie and coat, 65% returned intact wallets, 54% of those in the "casual" category, i.e., slacks and sports shirt, did so, whereas only 20% of those in the "work clothes" category, i.e., khakies, jeans or uniform, did so. This difference could not be accounted for by differential composition of patrons at the two stores nor by the ages of those returning the wallets. One might predict this finding on the basis of need for money, but it is also consistent with Berkowitz' ( 1, 2 ) formulation concerning altruism in the various social classes, namely, that lower-class individuals are more influenced by the norm of reciprocity and segments of the middle-class more by the norm of social responsibility. Although the cause of such a difference cannot be attributed to this source for certain, data are consistent with the earlier findings. In addition, significantly more (X' = 5.5, df = 1, p < .02) patrons of the paperback store returned intact wallets (75% ) than did patrons of the erotic bookstore (44% ) . This finding may be due to a generalized factor of moral behavior since rhere were no differences in dress between the stores or to some unobserved variables. Of those exiting the paperback store 86% returned the wallets, while 67% of those entering did so. Of persons exiting the pornographic bookstore, 50% returned the wallets compared to 38% of those entering, a nonsignificant difference. These data do indicate that exposure to erotic stimuli did not lead to an increase in the antisocial behavior of stealing.
Improvement on bait steal gauging for estimating outdoor rat density

Objective To solve the problem of feeding rates tending to be too high when estimating outdoor rat density due to baits loss.Methods Improving bait steal gauging used baiting boxes with serial number,and testing according to the operating rules.Contrast experiments were carried out at interval of 7d between normal bait steal gauging and improved bait steal gauging in 4 residential areas and 4 partens.The data were analyzed with logistic regression.Results Feeding rates of normal bait steal gauging were 1.4~6.2 times higher than that of improved bait steal gauging at the same location.There was statistical significance(P0.01)in test method and sequence,the odds ratios were 0.344 and 1.353 respectively.Conclusion The improved bait steal gauging recorded lost baits as null data,handlers found test baits more easily in complicated spots according to the operating rules,the results were more accurate.It was suitable for estimating outdoor rat density.
Application of GM Model of Grey System in Deformation Prediction of Deep Foundation Pit

Based on deep foundation pit of a subway station,the paper introduce the basic principle and calculation process of GM model of grey system.The GM(1,1)model was used to predict the piling deformation and subsidence of ground surface around the pit.By comparison of the measured value and the predictive value,the paper indicates that the predictive value can fit the measured value very well,and the accuracy is very high.It also proves that using the GM(1,1) model to predict the piling deformation and subsidence of ground surface around the pit is practicable.The results of the paper can provide references for the deformation predication of deep foundation pit.
Prognosis of Landau-Kleffner Syndrome

The long-term follow-up of seven patients with Landau-Kleffner syndrome (LKS) is reported from State University of Campinas, Brazil.
Optical nonlinearities near the band edge in semiconductors

Either real or virtual excitation of carriers in a semiconductor gives rise to optically induced absorption and index changes that are particularly large near the band edge. This paper will review the present status of these nonlinearities, which were first investigated for their potential use in nonlinear Fabry-Perot′s. Experimental devices reported to date, however, have relatively high switching thresholds and low contrast ratios.
Evaluation of the Farmers’ Markets for Kids programme

Objective To assess the impact of Farmers’ Markets for Kids, a farmers’ market-based, child-oriented nutrition education programme, on attitudes and behaviours related to preparing and consuming produce among child participants and their caregivers in New York City (NYC). Design Retrospective pre-test/post-test cross-sectional survey with caregivers of children participating in Farmers’ Markets for Kids classes. Setting Four NYC farmers’ markets where Farmers’ Markets for Kids classes are implemented; these markets serve low-income communities. Subjects Two hundred and twelve adult caregivers of children who participated in Farmers’ Markets for Kids classes. Results Caregivers reported that children’s consumption of fruits and vegetables had increased since participating in Farmers’ Markets for Kids and that their children more frequently assisted with food preparation; both of these improvements were statistically significant. Caregivers also reported significant improvements in attitudes: since participating in Farmers’ Markets for Kids, their children were more willing to try new fruits and vegetables and caregivers found it easier to prepare fruits and vegetables for their children. Almost all respondents (99 %) reported purchasing more fruits and vegetables since participating in Farmers’ Markets for Kids and 95 % had prepared the programme’s recipes at home. Conclusions Findings suggest that Farmers’ Markets for Kids may be an effective approach for increasing produce consumption among participating children and improving related attitudes among children and caregivers. This evaluation provides support for future efforts to undertake more rigorous evaluations of such programmes.
Discursively Constructing the Session

Monty investigates how interactions between tutors and students are rhetorically constructed through generalist and disciplinary consultations. Through a critical analysis of tutor response forms, the main mode of data collection in local writing centers, the chapter argues that discursive practices used within local writing centers can be modified to account for students’ interests and expertise. “Discursively Constructing the Session” theorizes how everyday writing center discourses can reproduce and challenge institutional power. Finally, through schematic mapping that double as heuristics, the binary thinking propagated by physical metaphors of contact zones are replaced with a more equitable triangulated contact zone of tutor, student, and content area discipline.