cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Online Learning of the Kalman Filter with Logarithmic Regret

In this paper, we consider the problem of predicting observations generated online by an unknown, partially observed linear system, which is driven by stochastic noise. For such systems the optimal predictor in the mean square sense is the celebrated Kalman filter, which can be explicitly computed when the system model is known. When the system model is unknown, we have to learn how to predict observations online based on finite data, suffering possibly a non-zero regret with respect to the Kalman filter's prediction. We show that it is possible to achieve a regret of the order of $\mathrm{poly}\log(N)$ with high probability, where $N$ is the number of observations collected. Our work is the first to provide logarithmic regret guarantees for the widely used Kalman filter. This is achieved using an online least-squares algorithm, which exploits the approximately linear relation between future observations and past observations. The regret analysis is based on the stability properties of the Kalman filter, recent statistical tools for finite sample analysis of system identification, and classical results for the analysis of least-squares algorithms for time series. Our regret analysis can also be applied for state prediction of the hidden state, in the case of unknown noise statistics but known state-space basis. A fundamental technical contribution is that our bounds hold even for the class of non-explosive systems, which includes the class of marginally stable systems, which was an open problem for the case of online prediction under stochastic noise.
The transgender individual

Abstract An immutable sense of one being male or female is biologically based. While it is consistent with genital anatomy in most persons, a significant number of individuals' gender identity is discordant with natal sex. Transgenderism can occur without a concurrent intersex condition and is independent of sexual preference. The genesis of gender dysphoria may relate to the temporal discrepancy between the formation of the genital anatomy in the first 2 months of pregnancy and the sexual differentiation of the brain in the second half of pregnancy. The two processes may involve different mechanisms.
Results are not generalizable to children attending school.

Dr. Posfay-Barbe and colleagues provide a thoughtful analysis of pediatric patients (n=39) who sought medical care and tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 in Geneva, Switzerland during March 10–April 10, 2020, and provide evidence that … E-mail: alison.rustagi{at}ucsf.edu
The Domestic Legal Framework for U.S. Military Cyber Operations

Conventional wisdom holds that Congress has abandoned its duty regarding the government’s war powers. It is not hard to understand why. Between the agelessness and flexibility of the 2001 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force (AUMFs) and periodic unilateral uses of military force in Libya, Syria, and Iraq, the executive branch appears to act largely at its own discretion when it comes to conventional military operations. But matters are different in the cyber domain. With little fanfare and less public notice, Congress and the executive branch have cooperated effectively over the past decade to build a legal architecture for military cyber operations. This framework reflects recurring and constructive congressional engagement. The resulting structure is far less familiar to most observers than its cousins — those architectures associated with conventional military operations and intelligence activities — but is no less important. This is particularly true in light of the Pentagon’s commitment to the “defend forward” operational model.
The ductile/brittle transition of polycrystalline aggregates in terms of their single crystal cubic properties:

The Kroner solution is used to determine the shear modulus of any polycrystalline aggregate composed of cubic crystals. This solution from the self-consistent method takes the form of a cubic equat...
Centering Blackness: An Examination of Culturally-Affirming Pedagogy and Practices Enacted by HBCU Administrators and Faculty Members

Existing research notes that Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are bastions of Black culture where Black students often feel supported (e.g., Harris in The Urban Review, 44(3), 332–357, 2012). What is less well-known are the specific practices campus stakeholders enact to create culturally-affirming environments. This study addresses this gap in the literature by examining pedagogy and educational practices employed by HBCU administrators and faculty members that build upon the lived experiences of Black communities to help to promote Black students’ success. In doing so, we seek to better understand the strategies these individuals utilize to center Blackness via culturally-informed practices and culturally engaging environments that affirm Black students’ racial identities. Our findings highlight the following ways that HBCU administrators and faculty members embrace Black cultural affirmation: their emphasis on culturally relevant knowledge and culturally-informed pedagogy that centers Black experiences; and their commitment to Black cultural validation via connecting with Black communities and Black students’ backgrounds. This research extends current scholarship on educational practices and environments with a focus on Black students’ racial identity. The authors provide implications for culturally-affirming pedagogy and campus climates that can benefit institutions seeking to create inclusive educational spaces where students from various backgrounds do not have to feel divorced from key aspects of their cultural heritage. Recommendations for practice, research and policy are also discussed.
Engineering the nature of polarization dynamics in lead-free relaxors based on (Bi1/2Na1/2)TiO3

(Bi1/2Na1/2)TiO3 (BNT) is a lead-free ferroelectric material, which has shown promising electromechanical properties and energy storage capacities. These attractive functionalities and property performances are attributed to the relaxor behavior of BNT. However, the nature of the dielectric relaxation is not well understood in these materials, and the physical meaning of some important parameters associated with the permittivity is still under debate. In this Letter, we focus on the dielectric “shoulder,” Ts, that is readily seen in the e′–T curve of every BNT-based relaxor. It is found that the Ts is controlled by not only the typical compositional engineering but also by the thermal, electrical, or mechanical history. From a moderate temperature (≤250 °C), a sample can be rapidly cooled to room temperature or slowly cooled under an electrical bias or a mechanical bias in the form of a compressive stress. All three treatments lead to a nearly identical effect, which is to alter the Ts with respect to rest of the e′–T curve that remains unperturbed. Therefore, the internal stress is identified to be a general perturbance to the polarization dynamics. Finally, the “breathing” model is revisited to interpret the physical meaning of Ts for these BNT materials under these metastable conditions.
17 – THE IDEAL RUBBER

This chapter discusses rubber as an example of a homogeneous noncrystalline solid that provides an example of a single-component thermodynamic system whose fundamental equation is characterized by four extensive variables. The formalism developed here serves as a model for systems in which surface effects cannot be neglected or which are acted on by electrical magnetic or gravitational fields. The chapter examines rubbers at constant composition—that is, unswollen rubbers—the ideal rubber—an example of an ideal solid system. The chapter tackles the thermodynamics of swelling and of swollen rubbers. When a piece of rubber is immersed in a solvent it changes its composition because it swells—that is, it imbibes certain amount of the solvent. It cannot dissolve because the network chains are held together by the cross-links.
Saddlepoint Series for Densities

In many statistical applications, approximations to the probability that a random variable exceeds a certain threshold value are important. Such approximations are useful, for example, in constructing tests and confidence intervals, and for calculating p-values. Edgeworth series converge uniformly quickly over the entire possible range of the random variable, when error is measured in an absolute sense. Often times, relative error behavior is more important than absolute error behavior; an error of.005 is of little importance when considering tests of approximate size.05 but is of great importance when considering tests of approximate size.001. Saddlepoint methodology is a method for achieving in many cases uniform bounds on relative error over the range of the distribution. This work was pioneered by Daniels (1954).
Major electrocardiographic abnormalities and 25-hydroxy vitamin D deficiency: insights from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey-III.

Background We explored the relationship between major electrocardiogram (ECG) abnormalities (mECG) and 25-hydroxy (25-OH) vitamin D deficiency (VDD) and the effect of mECG abnormalities on all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in a healthy cohort with 25-OH vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency. Hypothesis Lower levels of serum 25-OH vitamin D are associated with increased prevalence of mECG on resting ECG. Methods We identified 5108 individuals from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey-III. mECG abnormalities included: major Q-QS wave abnormalities, ST depression/elevation, negative T waves, Wolff-Parkinson-White pattern, and ventricular conduction defect. Our cohort was divided into 3 groups based on 25-OH vitamin D levels: Group 1 (referent): >40 ng/mL; group 2 (insufficient): ≥20.01 to ≤40 ng/mL; and group 3 (deficient): ≤20 ng/mL. Logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards regression models were built. Results The prevalence of major ECG abnormalities across 25-OH vitamin D sufficiency, insufficiency, and deficiency was 5.9%, 11%, and 13 %, respectively (P = 0.01). VDD was an independent predictor of mECG abnormalities after adjusting for traditional risk factors (continuous variable odds ratio [OR]: 0.98, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.97-0.99, P = 0.007; categorical variable group 3 vs group 1 OR: 2.36, 95% CI: 1.1-5.12, P = 0.03). Baseline major ECG abnormalities were predictive of long-term all-cause (hazard ratio [HR]:1.52, 95% CI: 1.23-1.89), composite cardiovascular (HR: 1.7, 95% CI: 1.34-2.15), cardiovascular (HR: 1.64, 95% CI: 1.27-2.12), and ischemic heart disease mortality (HR: 1.98, 95% CI: 1.46-2.69) in individuals with 25-OH vitamin D levels ≤40 ng/mL. Conclusions VDD is associated with increased prevalence of major ECG abnormalities. Well-structured trials are needed to assess progression/resolution of mECG abnormalities with vitamin D supplementation in deficient individuals.
DEFICIENCY OF ELECTRON TRANSFER FLAVOPROTEIN |[lpar]|ETF|[rpar]| OR ETF DEHYDROGENASE |[lpar]|DH|[rpar]| IN GLUTARIC ACIDEMIA II |[lpar]|GA2|[rpar]| FIBROBLASTS

GA2 is an inborn error of metabolism characterized by nonketotic hypoglycemia, metabolic acidosis, and excretion of metabolites of flavoprotein dehydrogenases that transfer electrons to the respiratory chain via ETF and ETF DH. Defects in these proteins have been proposed to explain the discrepancy between the apparent dehydrogenase deficiencies in vivo and in whole mutant fibroblasts, and their normal catalytic activities when asayed in vitro.
Schistosomiasis: experimental surgical removal of adult worms.

Without continuing superinfection, the biological effects of schistosomal infection are proportional to the number of adult male and female worms in the veins. Me­ chanical removal of large numbers of these adults would significantly reduce egg pro­ duction and thereby alter the clinical course of the disease. l We have devised an effec­ tive method for surgical removal of adult schistosomes from the portal system of primates.
Genetically Engineered Animals and the Ethics of Food Labeling

The current debate about labeling genetically engineered (GE) food focuses on food derived from GE crops, neglecting food derived from GE animals. This is not surprising, as GE animal products have not yet reached the market. Participants in the debate may also be assuming that conclusions about GE crops automatically extend to GE animals. But there are two GE animals - the Enviropig and the AquAdvantage Bred salmon - that are approaching the market, animals raise more ethical issues than plants, and U.S. regulations treat animal products differently from crops. This paper therefore examines the specific question of whether there should be mandatory labeling on all food products derived from GE animals. We examine the likely regulatory pathways, salient differences between GE animals and GE crops, and relevant social science research on consumers’ attitudes. We argue that on any of the likely pathways, the relevant agency has a democratic obligation to require labeling for all GE animal food products.
Differential effects of acellular embryonic matrices on pluripotent stem cell expansion and neural differentiation

Extracellular matrices (ECM) derived from pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) provide a unique tissue microenvironment that can direct cellular differentiation and tissue regeneration, and rejuvenate aged progenitor cells. The unlimited growth capacity of PSCs allows for the scalable generation of PSC-secreted ECMs. Therefore, the derivation and characterization of PSC-derived ECMs is of critical importance in drug screening, disease modeling and tissue regeneration. In this study, 3-D ECMs were generated from decellularized undifferentiated embryonic stem cell (ESC) aggregates (AGG), spontaneously differentiated embryoid bodies (EB), and ESC-derived neural progenitor cell (NPC) aggregates. The capacities of different ECMs to direct proliferation and neural differentiation of the reseeded mouse ESCs and human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) were characterized. Proteomic analysis by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) revealed protein expression profiles that reflected distinct niche properties for each tested ECM group. The reseeded mouse ESCs and human iPSCs responded to different types of ECMs with different cellular phenotypes. Cells grown on the AGG-ECM displayed high levels of pluripotent markers Oct-4 and Nanog, while the cells grown on the NPC-ECM showed increased expression of neural marker β-tubulin III. The expression levels of β-catenin were high for cells grown on the AGG-ECM and the EB-ECM, but reduced in cells grown on the NPC-ECM, indicating a possible role of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in the cell-matrix interactions. This study demonstrates that PSC-derived ECMs can influence stem cell fate decisions by providing a spectrum of stem cell niche microenvironments during tissue development.
Multivariate-Gaussian-based cepstral normalization for robust speech recognition

We introduce a new family of environmental compensation algorithms called multivariate gaussian based cepstral normalization (RATZ). RATZ assumes that the effects of unknown noise and filtering on speech features can be compensated by corrections to the mean and variance of components of Gaussian mixtures, and an efficient procedure for estimating the correction factors is provided. The RATZ algorithm can be implemented to work with or without the use of "stereo" development data that had been simultaneously recorded in the training and testing environments. "Blind" RATZ partially overcomes the loss of information that would have been provided by stereo training through the use of a more accurate description of how noisy environments affect clean speech. We evaluate the performance of the two RATZ algorithms using the CMU SPHINX-II system on the alphanumeric census database and compare their performance with that of previous environmental-robustness developed at CMU.
Recent Progress on Truncated Toeplitz Operators

This paper is a survey on the emerging theory of truncated Toeplitz operators. We begin with a brief introduction to the subject and then highlight the many recent developments in the field since Sarason’s seminal paper (Oper. Matrices 1(4):491–526, 2007).
Can Growth Form Classification Predict Litter Nutrient Dynamics and Decomposition Rates in Lowland Wet Forest

This study investigates whether it is possible to simplify the complex influence of numerous species on leaf litter decomposition in a diverse tropical forest using functional classifications to predict litter quality, decomposition rate, and nutrient dynamics during decomposition, over a 2-yr period. Thirty-three lowland tropical forest plant species from contrasting growth forms (canopy trees, pioneer trees, lianas, palms, herbs) were studied. Twelve of 18 indices of litter quality varied significantly among growth forms, with canopy trees and palms showing lower litter quality than pioneer trees and herbs. Canopy leaves decomposed more slowly than understory leaves. Decomposition rate and mass loss trended greater (Po0.1) in herbs and pioneer trees compared with other growth forms. There were no significant differences between monocots and dicots, and no phylogenetic signal for decomposition was observed. Significant correlations between continuous litter quality variables and decomposition rate were observed with correlation coefficients up to 0.72. Litter lignin:Mg, P concentration, and lignin:K, were the litter quality variables most related to decomposition rate. All elements showed significant negative correlations between initial litter concentration and percent remaining, but many elements showed significant correlation between percent element remaining and initial concentrations of other elements, indicating a stoichiometric balance between these elements during decomposition. The results show that although classification by growth form and canopy position are helpful for considering the ecosystem implications of changing community composition, litter quality traits provide additional predictive power for estimating the effects of species change on decomposition.
On the Dispersion and Displacement Distribution of Circumferential Waves in a Composite Circular Cylinder

The motivation for this paper is the need to detect radial fatigue cracks in a shaft/bearing assembly (as shown in Fig. 1), using guided circumferential waves. To do so, wave propagation in a layered cylinder must be understood. In order to accurately detect the crack, the dispersion relationship for guided circumferential waves must be known; this enables the selective generation of specific wave modes that carry the most energy to the interface (and to the crack).
Antimony(V) Chloride

[7647-18-9] Cl5Sb (MW 299.02) InChI = 1S/5ClH.Sb/h5*1H;/q;;;;;+5/p-5 InChIKey = VMPVEPPRYRXYNP-UHFFFAOYSA-I (Lewis acid,1 catalyst for Friedel–Crafts reactions, isomerization, and other Lewis acid related chemistry;1 chlorinating agent; acid system for the preparation of stable carbocation and onium salts1) Alternate Name: antimony pentachloride Physical Data: bp 92 °C/30 mmHg. Solubility: sol chloroform, carbon tetrachloride. Form Supplied in: colorless or slightly yellow oily liquid; commercially available. Handling, Storage, and Precautions: SbCl5 is a corrosive, toxic, and moisture sensitive substance. It can be purified by vacuum distillation. SbCl5 fumes when exposed to atmosphere, and should be stored under anhydrous conditions and handled using proper gloves in a well ventilated hood.
Theoretical Analysis of the FTIR Absorption Characteristic of Nano-Powder

The infrared absorption behaviors of nano-MgO with different sizes have been investigated based on XRD and IR data. The blue shifts of infrared absorption peaks with the decrease of the particles size have been analyzed by constructing one-dimensional vibration model. Adopting the quantum physics analyzed method, we provide the reasonable explanations for the red shifts of infrared absorption peaks as the average particle size of nano-MgO powder is down to less than 50 nm.
Inhibition of nitric oxide synthase reduces renal ischemia/reperfusion injury.

Background. The role of nitric oxide (NO) production because of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in the pathogenesis of renal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury is unclear. In this study the roles of both iNOS and NO were characterized in a rat model of renal I/R injury. In addition, the effect of iNOS inhibition on renal function was evaluated. Methods. Sprague-Dawley rats underwent 45 min of left renal ischemia and contralateral nephrectomy followed by various periods of reperfusion and renal function analysis [plasma creatinine, fractional excretion of sodium (FENa), creatinine clearance (CrCl), and measurement of plasma and urine NO levels]. In addition, the effect of treatment with 1400W, a highly selective iNOS inhibitor, was evaluated. Results. Renal dysfunction peaked at 48 h after reperfusion and immunohistochemistry studies revealed iNOS expression in the vasculature (3 h) and renal tubules (48 h) after reperfusion. Renal function improved significantly in treated animals compared to controls [creatinine of 1.1 v. 1.9 mg/dl (P < 0.05) and CrCl of 0.54 v. 0.31 ml/min (P < 0.05), respectively]. In addition, FENa was decreased by 50%, plasma NO levels were significantly lower (32.7 v. 45.7 mol/L, P < 0.01), and deposition of nitrotyosine in the tubules of treated rats was less than in control animals. Conclusions. These data support the hypothesis that iNOS and NO are involved in the pathogenesis of renal I/R injury and suggests that use of iNOS inhibitors may be a valuable therapeutic strategy clinical situations where renal I/R may be prevalent. © 2005 Elsevier Inc.
Pharmacodynamics of in Vivo Nitroglycerin Tolerance in Normal Conscious Rats: Effects of Dose and Dosing Protocol

Purpose. We examined the effects of dose and dosing protocol on the pharmacodynamics of in vivo nitroglycerin (NTG) tolerance in conscious rats. Mechanism-based pharmcokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) models were tested for their ability to describe the observed data.
The Financial Assimilation of an Immigrant Group: Evidence on the Use of Checking and Savings Accounts and Currency Exchanges

This article examines the determinants of financial market participation for a particular group of immigrants: Hmong refugees in Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota. Our findings indicate that controlling for income and education, Hmong immigrants are less likely to have savings accounts and credit cards and are more likely to use currency exchanges, compared to randomly selected non-Hmong households living in the same neighborhoods. However, these effects are mitigated by time spent in the US. Financial assimilation appears to take 15-20 years. These findings expand our understanding of immigrant assimilation and highlight some of the complexities associated with the process of assimilation.
Distribution and quantitation of immunoreactive gut neuropeptides in piebald mice and their normal littermates

Abstract Piebald mice inherit congenital megacolon associated with distal aganglionosis. To study the distribution of intrinsic peptidergic nerves in the gut of piebald mice and their normal littermates, we used specific radioimmunoassays to measure the tissue concentrations of the following immunoreactive neuropeptides: vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), peptide histidine-isoleucine (PHI), [Met]enkephalin (Enk), substance P (SP), and bombesin-like intestinal peptide (BLIP). In the normal littermates, all neuropeptide concentrations were significantly greater in the colon than in the proximal gut. SP, Enk, VIP, PHI, and BLIP levels were all decreased in the distal colon of piebald mice as compared to normal littermates. SP, BLIP, and Enk levels were also decreased in the dilated proximal colon of piebald mice. These results suggest that there are abnormalities in the peptidergic innervation of the proximal and the distal colon in piebald mice. The abnormalities localized to the proximal colon of piebald mice may be related to functional obstruction of the colon.
Human Milk is the Feeding Strategy to Prevent Necrotizing Enterocolitis

The use of human milk in the neonatal intensive care unit clearly has short and long-term beneficial effects, but its role in the prevention of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) cannot be understated. Immaturity of the intestinal tract, barrier function, and mucosal defense contributes to NEC. Human milk feeding enhances maturity of the intestinal tract, barrier functions, and mucosal defenses by providing components such as immunoglobulin A, lactoferrin, lysozyme, oligosaccharides, epidermal growth factor, acetylhydrolase, erythropoietin, arginine and glutamine, and polyunsaturated fatty acids, and the ability to promote a commensal intestinal microflora.
Quantitative analysis of prostate metabolites using 1H HR‐MAS spectroscopy

A method was developed to quantify prostate metabolite concentrations using (1)H high-resolution magic angle spinning (HR-MAS) spectroscopy. T(1) and T(2) relaxation times (in milliseconds) were determined for the major prostate metabolites and an internal TSP standard, and used to optimize the acquisition and repetition times (TRs) at 11.7 T. At 1 degrees C, polyamines (PAs; T(1mean) = 100 +/- 13, T(2mean) = 30.8 +/- 7.4) and citrate (Cit; T(1mean) = 237 +/- 39, T(2mean) = 68.1 +/- 8.2) demonstrated the shortest relaxation times, while taurine (Tau; T(1mean) = 636 +/- 78, T(2mean) = 331 +/- 71) and choline (Cho; T(1mean) = 608 +/- 60, T(2mean) = 393 +/- 81) demonstrated the longest relaxation times. Millimolal metabolite concentrations were calculated for 60 postsurgical tissues using metabolite and TSP peak areas, and the mass of tissue and TSP. Phosphocholine plus glycerophosphocholine (PC+GPC), total choline (tCho), lactate (Lac), and alanine (Ala) concentrations were higher in prostate cancer ([PC+GPC](mean) = 9.34 +/- 6.43, [tCho](mean) = 13.8 +/- 7.4, [Lac](mean) = 69.8 +/- 27.1, [Ala](mean) = 12.6 +/- 6.8) than in healthy glandular ([PC+GPC](mean) = 3.55 +/- 1.53, P < 0.01; [tCho](mean) = 7.06 +/- 2.36, P < 0.01; [Lac](mean) = 46.5 +/- 17.4, P < 0.01; [Ala](mean) = 8.63 +/- 4.91, P = 0.051) and healthy stromal tissues ([PC+GPC](mean) = 4.34 +/- 2.46, P < 0.01; [tCho](mean) = 7.04 +/- 3.10, P < 0.01; [Lac](mean) = 45.1 +/- 18.6, P < 0.01; [Ala](mean) = 6.80 +/- 2.95, P < 0.01), while Cit and PA concentrations were significantly higher in healthy glandular tissues ([Cit](mean) = 43.1 +/- 21.2, [PAs](mean) = 18.5 +/- 15.6) than in healthy stromal ([Cit](mean) = 16.1 +/- 5.6, P < 0.01; [PAs](mean) = 3.15 +/- 1.81, P < 0.01) and prostate cancer tissues ([Cit](mean) = 19.6 +/- 12.7, P < 0.01; [PAs](mean) = 5.28 +/- 5.44, P < 0.01). Serial spectra acquired over 12 hr indicated that the degradation of Cho-containing metabolites was minimized by acquiring HR-MAS data at 1 degree C compared to 20 degrees C.
Influence of amount and method of irrigation water application on leaching of atrazine

A study was conducted to relate leaching of a herbicide, atrazine [6-chloro-N-ethyl-N'-(1-methylethyl)-1,3,5-triazine-2,4,-diamine), and inorganic water tracers, Br - and Cl - , to the amount of deep-percolating water produced from irrigation. Soil at the site was classified as a Dehli Loamy Sand (Mixed, Thermic, Tepic Xeropsamment) which was an unstructured sandy soil that was low in organic C content, conditions conducive to solute leaching. The relationship between depth of solute movement and amount of deep-percolating water was measured in sprinkler, basin, and furrow irrigation methods.
Evidence of the role of contacts on the observed electron-hole asymmetry in graphene

We perform electrical transport measurements in graphene with several sample geometries. In particular, we design ``invasive'' probes crossing the whole graphene sheet as well as ``external'' probes connected through graphene side arms. The four-probe conductance measured between external probes varies linearly with charge density and is symmetric between electron and hole types of carriers. In contrast measurements with invasive probes give a strong electron-hole asymmetry and a sublinear conductance as a function of density. By comparing various geometries and types of contact metal, we show that these two observations are due to transport properties of the metal/graphene interface. The asymmetry originates from the pinning of the charge density below the metal, which thereby forms a $p\text{\ensuremath{-}}n$ or $p\text{\ensuremath{-}}p$ junction, depending on the polarity of the carriers in the bulk graphene sheet. Our results also explain part of the sublinearity observed in conductance as a function of density in a large number of experiments on graphene, which has generally been attributed to short-range scattering only.
Biocultural construction of obesogenic ecologies of childhood: parent-feeding versus child-eating strategies.

Human biologists recognize the centrality of parental feeding beliefs and related practices in structuring children's under-nutrition risk in food-insecure settings. By contrast, how they might similarly structure children's nutrition-related health risks in calorically rich ecolo- gies has barely been considered. Using the case of 3- to 6-year-old children in a rural Southeast- ern U.S. community with very high obesity rates, we use cognitive methods such as consensus analysis to determine how parental cultural models of child eating and feeding are linked to high calorie, obesogenic child diets. We find that parental models are very consistent with biomedical understandings (reduce fat, reduce sugar, portion control, etc.). Regardless, children's diets are extremely high in calories overall as well as in high sugar and fat food items. We suggest three likely and mutually reinforcing contributing factors to persistent and increasing early childhood overweight and obesity: parents' ambivalence about modeling healthy eating, children's active re- sistance, and the balance of parents' social against nutritive goals at mealtimes. The active role of children as social architects of their own biology has been little explored in human biological stud- ies, and should provide novel and important understandings of the biocultural construction of childhood over-nutrition. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 18:203-213, 2006. ' 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
A Possible Explanation as to Why Ions in Aqueous Solutions Do Not Extract

Abstract Evidence is obtained to show that the ion-dipole bond between an ion and the water molecule adducts surrounding it is stronger than the bond between the ion and the organic phase molecules. The water adducts cannot be displaced and the system remains hydrophilic and resists extraction.
Insertion of a short repetitive sequence (D881) in a sea urchin gene: A typical interspersed repeat?

A comparison has been made between the Sp88 gene regions of the DNAs of the sea urchins Strongylocentrotus purpuratus (Sp.) and Strongylocentrotus drobachiensis (Sd.). Examination of the 3′ terminal part of the transcribed region revealed a short repetitive sequence present in Sd. but absent from Sp. A 12-nucleotide sequence present once in Sp. is almost perfectly duplicated at both ends of the repeat in Sd., suggesting that a mobile repeat was inserted in the Sd. genome. Other members of this family of repeated sequences occur in many interspersed locations in the genomes of both species. Except for the insertion duplication, the inserted sequence lacks direct or reverse repeats.
Urinary BDNF-to-creatinine ratio is associated with aerobic fitness.

Abstract Circulating levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) are known to be affected by aerobic exercise. As the previous research focus in humans has been to examine peripheral BDNF levels through blood, serum, and platelet assay, the present study investigated the association between basal urinary BDNF concentration and indices of aerobic fitness in a sample of young adults (n = 52). Aerobic fitness was evaluated with self-report of exercise habits and heart rate (HR) assessment during a sub-maximal Step Test. BDNF concentration was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and adjusted for creatinine. Results indicated that the basal BDNFlog/creatinine ratio was positively associated with greater frequency of exercise and, during aerobic challenge, a quicker rise in HR upon exercise, lower peak HR during exercise, and lower HR during the recovery period, each indicative of enhanced fitness. These results highlight the utility of urine capture as a non-invasive technique to assess for exercise-mediated changes in peripheral BDNF.
THE HUNTING OF THE SHREW

![Figure][1] When humans think `fast predator', we typically think of charismatic megafauna (e.g. the cheetah, the shark, the eagle). Often times though, tiny predators are proportionally more impressive. One of the fastest mammalian predators is actually not the cheetah, but the very small
A Study of Measurement Error Suitable for a Classroom Example

Abstract The results of a simple counting experiment are presented and analyzed. A model is set up that includes bias and intra-enumerator correlation; these components are estimated and their effect projected for a more general sampling situation. This provides a realistic data set to give greater insight into the nature and prevalence of measurement error. In this example the measurement bias is about four percent, with a .13 intra-enumerator correlation. This experiment is suitable for a classroom exercise for introductory statistical methods or for more advanced statistics students.
Inhibition of invitro protein synthesis by a carbocyclic puromycin analog

Summary The effect of a novel puromycin analog (I) on the poly U and poly UC directed polyphenylalanine synthesis has been examined. The inhibition of both systems by I corresponded with the inhibitory activities of puromycin. The carbocyclic analog also demonstrated inhibitory activity in three tumor systems grown in tissue culture.
Temporal differences in the effects of amphetamine on norepinephrine.

Abstract 1. 1. Norepinephrine (NE) concentration was determined at mid-light and late-dark phases in brain regions and organs of the rat 1 hr following the administration of amphetamine. 2. 2. Amphetamine caused a significant reduction in hypothalamic NE in the mid-light phase only. 3. 3. A significant difference between NE concentration at the mid-light and late-dark phases was found in the medial lower brainstem.
Pericarditis caused by anaerobic bacteria.

This review describes the microbiology, diagnosis and management of pericarditis due to anaerobic bacteria. The predominant anaerobes isolated from patients with pericarditis are Gram-negative bacilli (mostly Bacteroides fragilis group) as well as Peptostreptococcus, Clostridium, Fusobacterium, Bifidobacterium and Actinomyces spp. Anaerobic bacteria can be recovered from pericarditis resulting from the following mechanisms: (i) spread from a contiguous site of infection, either de novo or following surgery or trauma (pleuropulmonary, oesophageal fistula or perforation, and odontogenic); (ii) spread from a site of infection within the heart, most commonly from endocarditis; (iii) haematogenous infection; and (iv) direct inoculation resulting from a penetrating injury or cardiothoracic surgery. Anaerobic Gram-negative bacilli have increased their resistance to penicillins and other antimicrobial agents in the last two decades. Identification of pathogens and determination of their antimicrobial susceptibility and β-lactamase production are essential for adequate selection of antibiotic therapy effective against these organisms.
An extended conformation of calmodulin induces interactions between the structural domains of adenylyl cyclase from Bacillus anthracis to promote catalysis.

The edema factor exotoxin produced byBacillus anthracis is an adenylyl cyclase that is activated by calmodulin (CaM) at resting state calcium concentrations in infected cells. A C-terminal 60-kDa fragment corresponding to the catalytic domain of edema factor (EF3) was cloned, overexpressed inEscherichia coli, and purified. The N-terminal 43-kDa domain (EF3-N) of EF3, the sole domain of edema factor homologous to adenylyl cyclases from Bordetella pertussis andPseudomonas aeruginosa, is highly resistant to protease digestion. The C-terminal 160-amino acid domain (EF3-C) of EF3 is sensitive to proteolysis in the absence of CaM. The addition of CaM protects EF3-C from being digested by proteases. EF3-N and EF3-C were expressed separately, and both fragments were required to reconstitute full CaM-sensitive enzyme activity. Fluorescence resonance energy transfer experiments using a double-labeled CaM molecule were performed and indicated that CaM adopts an extended conformation upon binding to EF3. This contrasts sharply with the compact conformation adopted by CaM upon binding myosin light chain kinase and CaM-dependent protein kinase type II. Mutations in each of the four calcium binding sites of CaM were examined for their effect on EF3 activation. Sites 3 and 4 were found critical for the activation, and neither the N- nor the C-terminal domain of CaM alone was capable of activating EF3. A genetic screen probing loss-of-function mutations of EF3 and site-directed mutations based on the homology of the edema factor family revealed a conserved pair of aspartate residues and an arginine that are important for catalysis. Similar residues are essential for di-metal-mediated catalysis in mammalian adenylyl cyclases and a family of DNA polymerases and nucleotidyltransferases. This suggests that edema factor may utilize a similar catalytic mechanism.
Inhibition of biotin carboxylase by a reaction intermediate analog: implications for the kinetic mechanism.

Abstract The first committed step in long-chain fatty acid synthesis is catalyzed by the multienzyme complex acetyl CoA carboxylase. One component of the acetyl CoA carboxylase complex is biotin carboxylase which catalyzes the ATP-dependent carboxylation of biotin. The Escherichia coli form of biotin carboxylase can be isolated from the other components of the acetyl CoA carboxylase complex such that enzymatic activity is retained. The synthesis of a reaction intermediate analog inhibitor of biotin carboxylase has been described recently ( Organic Lett. 1, 99–102, 1999). The inhibitor is formed by coupling phosphonoacetic acid to the 1′-N of biotin. In this paper the characterization of the inhibition of biotin carboxylase by this reaction-intermediate analog is described. The analog showed competitive inhibition versus ATP with a slope inhibition constant of 8 mM. Noncompetitive inhibition was found for the analog versus biotin. Phosphonoacetate exhibited competitive inhibition with respect to ATP and noncompetitive inhibition versus bicarbonate. Biotin was found to be a noncompetitive substrate inhibitor of biotin carboxylase. These data suggested that biotin carboxylase had an ordered addition of substrates with ATP binding first followed by bicarbonate and then biotin.
On “learned helplessness”: The therapeutic effects of electroconvulsive shocks

Nineteen dogs were given a series of unavoidable, inescapable electric shocks while confined in a harness. Later, these dogs were tested for escape/avoidance learning in a shuttlebox. Compared to two control groups of eight dogs each, the preshocked dogs showed marked impairment of escape/avoidance learning. Indeed, 10 of the preshocked dogs never escaped, showing maximum helplessness. These 10 dogs were subsequently divided into two groups for the main experimental manipulation. One group of six received a series of six electroconvulsive shock (ECS) treatments over a 3-day period. The second group of four dogs served as controls; they received exactly the same manipulations with the exception of the electroconvulsive shocks. Four days later, these groups were tested again for escape/avoidance responding. The group that received ECS showed marked improvement, while the controls did not.
Unexpected relaxation of a Ag layer on Cu(111)

Abstract The structure and energetics of a layer of Ag deposited on Cu(111) has been computed using the embedded atom method (EAM). The lowest energy structure of the overlayer is a pseudoepitaxial arrangement of the Ag with 8 unit cells of Ag aligned with 9 unit cells of Cu. The structure is consistent with experimental observations and similar theoretical calculations by Mottet, Treglia and Legrand. The unexpected aspect of the theoretical results is the calculated atomic relaxations of the surface. The surface is found to have the lowest vertical position where the Ag atoms are in top sites over the Cu. This disagrees with the usual expectations based on hard sphere ideas. This result is explained in terms of the improved bonding between the substrate and an adsorbate in a top site when the substrate forms a local depression around the site.
Multigroup transport equation with a separable kernel

Abstract We consider an N -group, one-dimensional, time-independent transport equation with a separable scattering kernel. Full and partial range completeness relations are proved using the methods described in the book of Vekua. The procedures used are simple generalizations of a similar problem with two energy groups treated by the same authors elsewhere.
People with Disabilities: Employers' Perspectives on Recruitment Practices, Strategies, and Challenges in Leisure and Hospitality

A survey of employers at 320 hospitality companies in the United States found a set of similar concerns and challenges regarding employment of persons with disabilities, although several of these issues are the result of lack of employer education. While small and medium-size companies had somewhat different issues than large companies, all firms had several concerns in common, starting with the belief that those with disabilities could not do the work. Another top concern was the potential cost of unspecified accommodations under the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act, even though the record shows that most such accommodations are not exceptionally costly. Other potential concerns were the possibility that persons with disabilities would not have requisite skills or be as productive, and that supervisors would be uncomfortable supervising persons with disabilities and would not know how to discipline or evaluate them. Larger companies are more likely than small firms to actively recruit pe...
Introduction: Special Issue on Investment in the Telecommunications Industry Infrastructure

This is the fourth annual special issue of Industrial and Corporate Change devoted to research on telecommunications policy and strategy. The papers in this special issue represent research discussed at the annual conference of the Consortium for Research on Telecommunications Policy and Strategy, held at the University of Michigan Business School in Ann Arbor, during June, 1998. The Consortium seeks to sponsor interdisciplinary scholarship affecting both policy and management in the telecommunication industry. The Consortium has research nodes at the University of Michigan, Northwestern University, University of California at Berkeley and Harvard University. Over the course of the past four years, and with the ongoing generous financial support of the Ameritech Foundation, the Consortium has succeeded in encouraging research from the fields of economics, public policy, corporate strategy and engineering. The 1998 conference reflected the Consortium's success, as « leading researchers from both North America and Europe convened with senior federal and state policymakers and telecommunications industry T management to discuss current research and provide informed direction for 1 ongoing research programs. The common theme of both the Conference and of the papers published | here is investment in telecommunications infrastructure. Within this focal £ context, the theme was purposely kept broad in the hope of encouraging fc scholars to define the actors and substance of investments in tele0 communications that are most salient in today's rapidly changing 1 telecommunications industry. Our logic was driven by the very character of <5 the telecommunications industry. Converging technologies, conflicting and jj changing regulations, and burgeoning markets are hallmarks of today's I telecommunications industry. In such an environment, investment by J © Oxford University Pros 1998
An empirical examination of the effectiveness of dollar-cost averaging using downside risk performance measures

Some studies find the dollar-cost averaging investment strategy to be sub-optimal using a traditional Sharpe ratio performance ranking metric. Using both the Sortino ratio and the Upside Potential ratio, we empirically test four investment strategies for alternative asset investments. We find the relative ranking of dollar-cost averaging remains inferior to alternative investment strategies. (JEL G1, G11, N2)
African American family life in societal context: Crisis and hope

Since 1965 hundreds of articles and books have been published about African American families. Nevertheless, our understanding of these families continues to be limited. There is a tendency to gloss over important within-group differences; thus, monolithic, stereotypic and inaccurance portrayals of Black family life are common. This paper sets aside debates of Black family pathology or viability, focusing instead on these families' essential character. The paper seeks to understand Black families on their own terms, locating them in relevant social, historical, political and cultural contexts. Key empirical patterns and trends reveal dramatic changes in Black family geographic location, headship, quality of life and socioeconomic status since 1950. A complex picture is revealed. There has been gradual but steady overall improvement alongside persistent, extreme racial disparties and pronounced class disparities among Black families. The proposed Black Family Socio-Ecological Context model specifies and connects institutional, interpersonal, environmental, temporal and cultural facts that shape the essential character of Black family life in such a way as to produce characteristics simultaneously shared and idiosyncratic. The model also provides an organized, systematic accounting of research and public policy issues relevant to the study of African American families.
Maintaining engineering proficiency

In recent years, General Electric has conducted a new educational program for its senior technical managers. This six-week course is conducted for a class of 25 engineering managers at an off-the-job facility. Approximately 100 survey lectures on fundamental scientific theories and new methods of engineering analysis are presented by 25 visiting professors and company experts.
Biphasic change of progenitor proliferation in dentate gyrus after single dose of isoflurane in young adult rats.

Background:Isoflurane exposure causes improvement in long-term neurocognitive function in young adult rats; this is associated with an increase in dentate gyrus (DG) progenitor proliferation 4 days after anesthesia. However, the number of new neurons that were born from cells that incorporated bromo
Elements of Couple Psychotherapy and Awakening

SUMMARY A basic premise of this article is that the couple relationship always contains elements of spiritual awakening. “Spiritual emergencies,” fresh love, and new pain all bring with them the potential of spiritual awakening. The limits in our ability to express love, receive love, and to sustain intimate contact in our couple relationship mirror the limits within our spiritual life. Our relative ignorance of the spiritual aspects of our couple relationship causes stagnation and suffering.