cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Motivational contraints: Entscheidungen innerhalb der Organisation

In Kapitel 2 haben wir gesehen, das die traditionelle Organisationstheorie den menschlichen Organismus als einfache Maschine betrachtet. In diesem Modell sind die Fuhrer in der Erreichung der Organisationsziele nur durch die Beschrankungen begrenzt, die ihnen durch die Kapazitaten, Geschwindigkeiten, Ausdauer und Kosten dieser einfachen „Maschinen“ auferlegt werden. Die von der Theorie in Angriff genommenen Probleme und die vorgeschlagenen Losungen konzentrieren sich auf diese Beschrankungen.
Waiting for the Sun, Superman, or God?: The Tao of Inaction as “Wait[ing] in Silent Readiness”

This chapter first critically traces the didactic tradition of teaching-as-telling or aggressive teaching, which has remained dominant in the histories of China and Western education, and then explores the Taoist Pedagogy of Pathmarks as the Tao of inaction as “wait[ing] in silent readiness” (Heidegger in Letters to his wife. Polity Press, Cambridge, 1939/2008, p. 160). As it resonates with the connections among Heidegger, Lao Tzu, and Dewey, the Taoist Pedagogy of Pathmarks does not methodize teaching as an industrious process from input to output but celebrates it as being-in-relation in which the Tao of inaction “acts without dominating” (Tao Te Ching, Ch. 81).
How Do Patients with Mental Health Diagnoses Use Online Patient Portals? An Observational Analysis from the Veterans Health Administration

Online patient portals may be effective for engaging patients with mental health conditions in their own health care. This retrospective database analysis reports patient portal use among Veterans with mental health diagnoses. Unadjusted and adjusted odds of portal feature use was calculated using logistic regressions. Having experienced military sexual trauma or having an anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, or depression were associated with increased odds of portal use; bipolar, substance use, psychotic and adjustment disorders were associated with decreased odds. Future research should examine factors that influence portal use to understand diagnosis-level differences and improve engagement with such tools.
P5 A Mediterranean Diet Toolkit for Extension Educators: A Pilot Test

Objective Educate consumers on the Mediterranean diet (MD) and associated health benefits and encourage personal consumption of more healthy foods from the MD and fewer less healthy/processed foods. Package/organize the educational materials to meet educators’ needs for consistent and feasible delivery. Use of Theory or Research The MD is a well-researched and popular topic in nutrition. Long-term population studies indicate health benefits such as reduced risk of diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome in those following a MD. The 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines lists this diet as a recommended healthy eating pattern. Target Audience Adult Colorado residents. Program Description The MD toolkit includes program marketing materials, program evaluations, PowerPoint presentation, hands-on activities, supplemental handouts, recipes, and a short video. The program can be delivered in two hours. Evaluation Methods Educators administered post surveys in person; measures included knowledge, intent to change, and workshop feedback. Researchers sent follow up surveys online via Qualtrics one month after program completion; measures included self-report behavior change. Educators provided feedback on program implementation. Results Most frequently, participants (n = 174) learned about parts of the MD, health benefits, and/or how to follow it (29%). Participants agreed/strongly agreed that as a result of the program they intend to include more fruits and vegetables (77%), more olive oil (72%), other protein sources more often than red meat (65%), and less processed foods (65%) in their diet. One month out, participants (n = 69) reported that as a result of the program, they now include more fruits and vegetables (72%), more olive oil (59%), other protein sources more often than red meat (70%), and less processed foods (84%) in their diet. Conclusions The MD toolkit provides Extension educators in Colorado a tool to feasibly and consistently deliver nutrition education on the MD and lifestyle. Consumption of more healthy foods from the MD and less processed foods can have long-term health benefits for the consumer. Funding None.
The value of giving autistic testimony a substantial role in the science of autism

Jaswal & Akhtar argue that taking seriously autistic testimony will help make the science of autism more humane, accurate, and useful. In this commentary, I pose two questions about autistic testimony's role(s) in a better science of autism and extract a general lesson about the value of autistic testimony from the authors’ arguments.
Diagnostic Accuracy of the SLU AMSAD Scale for Depression in Older Adults Without Dementia

Abstract Objectives To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of a short depression screening tool, the Saint Louis University (SLU) AMSAD depression scale, relative to the Geriatric Depression Scale–15 (GDS-15) and Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS), and in relation to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders–Fifth Edition (DSM-5) criteria for major depressive disorder, in cognitively intact older adults. Design Cross-sectional. Setting Outpatient geriatric psychiatry clinic. Participants Fifty older adults (aged ≥65 years) without dementia. Measurements GDS-15, MADRS, SLU AMSAD, and DSM-5 criteria for major depressive disorder were administered. Results Total scores (continuous variables) for the GDS-15, MADRS, and SLU AMSAD correlated significantly with the DMS-5 criteria for major depressive disorder (MDD) [area under the curve (AUC) ≥ 0.93, sensitivity = 0.93, and specificity ≥ 0.80]. Optimal cutoffs were 9+ for GDS-15, 18+ for MADRS, and 7+ for SLU AMSAD. When score results were categorized according to their known cutoffs for mild, moderate, and severe depression, AUC values were again high (range = 0.82-0.89), with adequate levels of sensitivity (0.87-0.93) and specificity (0.71-0.86), distinguishing no or mild depression from moderate or severe depression in relation to the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for MDD. Conclusions and Implications Strong diagnostic accuracy was shown for the 3 scales. The SLU AMSAD performed as well as the GDS-15 and slightly better than the MADRS. The superiority of the SLU AMSAD is supported by the fact that it encompasses only 5 simply worded, simply scaled items to be used in busy clinical settings.
Serial follow‐up of corrected QT interval in Rett syndrome

Aim To identify factors associated with baseline prolonged corrected QT (QTc) and higher risk of QTc prolongation during follow-up in patients with Rett syndrome (RTT). Method A retrospective review of patients receiving an electrocardiogram (ECG) between June 2012 and June 2018 was performed. Age, methyl-CpG binding protein 2 gene (MECP2) mutation, RTT Severity Scale (RSSS) score, breathing abnormalities, seizure frequency, medications, and ECG parameters were collected. Prolonged QTc was defined as greater than or equal to 460ms. Comparisons at baseline and during follow-up were made. Results In total, 129 unique patients (all female) had 349 ECGs. At baseline, 12 (9.3%) had a prolonged QTc (median 474ms, interquartile range 470-486ms) and were more likely to have moderate/severe breathing abnormalities (66.7% vs 24.8%; p=0.005) and take selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) (41.7% vs 15.4%; p=0.04). There was no difference in age, RSSS score, seizures, or mutation. Twenty-six developed prolonged QTc during a median follow-up of 1 year 7 months (interquartile range 0-3y 6mo). QTc prolongation was associated with p.(Thr158Met) mutation versus the remaining six common mutations (hazard ratio 4.1, 95% confidence interval 1.4-12.0; p=0.01) but not with age, RSSS score, seizures, breathing abnormalities, or SSRIs. Interpretation Breathing abnormalities and SSRIs were associated with baseline QTc prolongation and those with p.(Thr158Met) mutation were more likely to develop prolonged QTc over time. Identification of patients with prolonged QTc warrants increased clinical monitoring. What this paper adds Breathing abnormalities and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are associated with prolonged baseline corrected QT (QTc). Development of QTc prolongation is associated with the p.(Thr158Met) mutation.
MODULATION OF BARORECEPTOR SENSITIVITY DURING OPERANT CARDIAC CONDITIONING

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses modulation of baroreceptor sensitivity during operant cardiac conditioning in animals. In an experiment described in the chapter, where the animals had to override the baroreceptor reflexes to escape electrical shock, they did so. Thus, the major hypothesis that the conditions threatening the well-being of the animal will produce behaviorally mediated adjustments in CV reflexes is fulfilled. All behavior is contingent upon its consequences in relation to biological determinants of survival. When a reflex competes with a learned response, the learned response will take precedence over the reflex. This is equally true for responses mediated by the ANS and by the somatic nervous system. However, as the effectors regulated by these two nervous systems have different characteristics, for example, speed of response or quality of interaction with other effectors, the interactions between learned behavior and reflex behavior must be analyzed using analytical procedures that are appropriate to the effector of interest.
Examining the self-reported advantages and disadvantages of socially networking about body image and eating disorders.

Objective The purpose of this study is to understand the self-reported advantages and disadvantages of socially networking about body image/eating disorders (EDs) and to examine the openness of these participants to online outreach and support for ED symptoms. Method A cross-sectional online survey was conducted with a sample of N = 598. Eligible participants were ≥15 years old, English-speaking, and U.S. residents who endorsed posting or following thin-ideal/body-image content on social media. Quantitative measures were used to assess online peer support and online interaction preferences, and to identify ED symptoms. Deductive and inductive qualitative approaches were used to analyze open-ended items about the advantages and disadvantages of social networking about thin-ideal content on social media platforms (SMPs). Results Among those who posted about the thin-ideal on social media, 70% felt that the peer responses were positive and supportive. Participants generally favored online interaction, and a third stated that they would accept support from someone they did not know online (38%). The most common advantages noted for posting/following thin-ideal content on SMPs were motivation/encouragement to engage in a certain behavior, socializing, and information giving/seeking. The most common disadvantages mentioned for posting/following thin-ideal content on SMPs were that the content elicits negative/bad feelings, having to deal with the negative consequences/reactions of others when socially networking about this topic, and that it triggers a desire to engage in ED behaviors. Discussion With these findings, researchers, health practitioners, and social media administrators can devise ways to reduce harmful consequences of posting/following body-image/ED content on social media.
Strangers in the School: Facilitators and Barriers Regarding Refugee Parental Involvement

Parental involvement has been deemed one of today’s most important topics in educational spheres. Refugee parents face many challenges upon resettling in the US, impacting their engagement in the US educational system. This study explores Muslim refugee parents’ experiences with schools and the facilitators and barriers for their engagement. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with 19 Muslim refugee parents from Syria and Iraq who resettled to the US. Facilitators of parental involvement included a welcoming and inclusive environment cultivated by educators who shared racial and ethnic similarities to refugee families. Barriers to their involvement included a lack of English language proficiency and discrimination and xenophobia instigated against their children, which caused parents to develop a level of distrust in the school staff. A major resource for educators, mental health specialists, and other stakeholders, this research augments understanding of the experiences of Muslim refugee parents and sheds light on the challenges, needs, and vulnerabilities of this understudied population.
Characteristics of Flow through Randomly Packed Impermeable and Permeable Particles using Pore Resolved Simulations

Abstract Pore resolved simulations are performed to study the mean flow characteristics in porous media formed by random distribution of impermeable and permeable particles. Permeability of the medium and reactive surface areas are analyzed for a range of solid fractions, packing patterns and flow rates. The results are compared with models presented in the literature and with simulations of flow through ordered packings. Permeability of a randomly packed porous medium is found to depend on the heterogeneous distribution of porosity which results from particle agglomeration and is typically ignored by simpler models. The reactive surface area is dependent on the flow field at pore scale in addition to geometry. Moreover, the wake formed downstream of the particles at moderately high flow rates also affects the reactive surface area. Similar analysis is also performed by assuming particles to be permeable to account for dual scale porosity relevant for various engineering applications.
Adolescent dairy product and calcium intake in relation to later prostate cancer risk and mortality in the NIH-AARP Diet and Health Study.

Although a growing body of evidence supports an early-life contribution to prostate cancer (PCa) development, few studies have investigated early-life diet, and only three have examined early-life dairy product intake, a promising candidate risk factor because of its known/suspected influence on insulin-like growth factor levels and height. We used recalled dietary data from 162,816 participants in the NIH-AARP Diet and Health Study to investigate associations for milk, cheese, ice cream, total dairy, and calcium intake at ages 12–13 years with incident total (n = 17,729), advanced (n = 2,348), and fatal PCa (n = 827) over 14 years of follow-up. We calculated relative risks (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) by Cox proportional hazards regression. We observed suggestive positive trends for milk, dairy, and calcium intake with total and/or advanced PCa (p-trends = 0.016–0.148). These trends attenuated after adjustment for additional components of adolescent diet, particularly red meat and vegetables/potatoes. In contrast, suggestive inverse trends were observed for cheese and ice cream intake with total and/or advanced PCa (p-trends = 0.043–0.153), and for milk, dairy, and calcium intake with fatal PCa (p-trend = 0.045–0.117). Although these findings provide some support for a role of adolescent diet in increasing PCa risk, particularly for correlates of milk intake or overall dietary patterns, our protective findings for cheese and ice cream intake with PCa risk and mortality, and for all dairy products with PCa mortality, suggest alternative explanations, such as the influence of early-life socioeconomic status, and increased PCa screening, earlier detection, and better PCa care.
Basic Quantitative Imaging Approaches

Quantitative imaging is the extraction of objective data from medical images. Diagnostic imaging is acquired in such a way that various measurements can be performed. Quantitative imaging can play an important role in clinical assessment and serve as a biomarker for various diseases. This chapter reviews basic anatomic radiology measurement techniques and potential limitations.
Prevalence and Financial Burden of Digestive Diseases in a Commercially Insured Population.

Background & Aims Digestive diseases represent a diverse group of clinical conditions that impact the population. Their heterogeneity in classification, presentation, acuity, chronicity, and need for drug therapy presents a challenge when comparing and contrasting the burden associated with these conditions. Prior studies use an outdated classification system and aggregate costs at the population level or focus on specific diseases, limiting the ability to characterize the overall landscape. Our aim was to provide the most up-to-date assessment of cost, utilization, and prevalence associated with digestive diseases. Methods We examined digestive disease claims and payment data for a commercially insured adult population between 2016 and 2018 to provide a comprehensive summary of costs, utilization, and prevalence across 38 conditions. Outcome variables included point prevalence and relative prevalence, annualized all-cause medical and drug costs, digestive disease-specific average medical cost, digestive disease-specific cost per fill, and utilization by clinical setting and by clinical condition. Results A total of 7,297,435 individuals with a digestive disease diagnosis were included in the study. The point prevalence of having a digestive disease in the total population was 24%. Annualized total costs by clinical category ranged from $10,038 (eosinophilic esophagitis) to $107,007 (hepatitis C), with medical costs accounting for most of the expenditures in a majority of conditions. Annualized total costs for common conditions included $39,653 for alcoholic liver disease, $42,554 for acute pancreatitis, $62,735 for Crohn's disease, $13,948 for functional gastrointestinal disorders, $53,214 for nonalcoholic cirrhosis, and $36,441 for ulcerative colitis. Average cost of inpatient stays ranged from $12,218 (noninfectious gastroenteritis/colitis) to $78,259 (nonalcoholic steatohepatitis). Outpatient visits ranged from $784 (gastrointestinal infection) to $4629 (gallbladder and biliary tract disease). Average drug cost per fill ranged from $83 (gastroesophageal reflux disease) to $1458 (hepatitis C). A total of 27,429,046 clinical encounters occurred across all conditions during the study period, with 90% taking place as outpatient visits. Abdominal pain was the single largest contributor to outpatient visits and emergency department to home encounters. Inpatient stays were considerably more heterogeneous, with no condition accounting for more than 12% (gallbladder and biliary tract disease) of the total. Conclusions The results demonstrate digestive diseases are common, heterogeneous in cost and utilization, and collectively exact a significant financial burden on the U.S. adult population.
The association between drought conditions and occupational psychosocial stress among Midwestern U.S. farmers: an occupational cohort study

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Drought represents a globally relevant natural disaster linked to adverse health. Evidence has shown agricultural communities to be particularly susceptible to drought condition...
Predictive classification of correlated targets with application to detection of metastatic cancer using functional CT imaging.

Summary Perfusion computed tomography (CTp) is an emerging functional imaging modality that uses physiological models to quantify characteristics pertaining to the passage of fluid through blood vessels. Perfusion characteristics provide physiological correlates for neovascularization induced by tumor angiogenesis. Thus CTp offers promise as a non-invasive quantitative functional imaging tool for cancer detection, prognostication, and treatment monitoring. In this article, we develop a Bayesian probabilistic framework for simultaneous supervised classification of multivariate correlated objects using separable covariance. The classification approach is applied to discriminate between regions of liver that contain pathologically verified metastases from normal liver tissue using five perfusion characteristics. The hepatic regions tend to be highly correlated due to common vasculature. We demonstrate that simultaneous Bayesian classification yields dramatic improvements in performance in the presence of strong correlation among intra-subject units, yet remains competitive with classical methods in the presence of weak or no correlation.
Trait Variability of Cancer Cells Quantified by High-Content Automated Microscopy of Single Cells

Mapping quantitative cell traits (QCT) to underlying molecular defects is a central challenge in cancer research because heterogeneity at all biological scales, from genes to cells to populations, is recognized as the main driver of cancer progression and treatment resistance. A major roadblock to a multiscale framework linking cell to signaling to genetic cancer heterogeneity is the dearth of large-scale, single-cell data on QCT-such as proliferation, death sensitivity, motility, metabolism, and other hallmarks of cancer. High-volume single-cell data can be used to represent cell-to-cell genetic and nongenetic QCT variability in cancer cell populations as averages, distributions, and statistical subpopulations. By matching the abundance of available data on cancer genetic and molecular variability, QCT data should enable quantitative mapping of phenotype to genotype in cancer. This challenge is being met by high-content automated microscopy (HCAM), based on the convergence of several technologies including computerized microscopy, image processing, computation, and heterogeneity science. In this chapter, we describe an HCAM workflow that can be set up in a medium size interdisciplinary laboratory, and its application to produce high-throughput QCT data for cancer cell motility and proliferation. This type of data is ideally suited to populate cell-scale computational and mathematical models of cancer progression for quantitatively and predictively evaluating cancer drug discovery and treatment.
A View From the Immigration Bench

From the perspective of the immigration bench, the unmet legal needs of the immigrant poor are perpetually apparent, as is the importance of instituting concrete ways to begin to take on the herculean task of improving and increasing the availability of legal services for oft-forgotten immigrants. In spring 2008, Judge Robert A. Katzmann1 convened a working group, comprised of immigration practitioners from large and small firms, Legal Aid attorneys, distinguished members of the private bar, nonprofit legal service providers, an Assistant Chief Counsel from the New York Department of Homeland Security (DHS), law professors, clinical supervisors, and representatives from interested city, state, and federal agencies. The purposes of this “Katzmann study group” were to explore the problem of inadequate representation of the immigrant poor and to develop specific projects and strategies to overcome barriers to quality representation. In the meetings that ensued, Judge Katzmann, along with Judge Denny Chin,2 inspired us all to do better and to do more. Each has given generously of his time. No question or invitation has been too small for them to take under consideration. Their inclusive problem-solving
Book Review: Analysis of Mixed Data: Methods & Application, by Alexander R. de Leon and Keumhee Carrière Chough

It has been challenging to develop statistical methods for analyzing mixed types of data due to the complex nature of the joint multivariate distribution of such data. This book by de Leon and Carr...
Obstruction of the bladder neck in the male infant and child

Summary 1. Unrecognized vesical neck obstruction is a frequent cause of renal destruction in male infants and children. 2. This condition should be diagnosed in the postnatal period in the newborn nursery. No newborn infant should be discharged from the hospital until he has been observed to void with a good stream. 3. Temporary treatment consists of catheter or suprapubic drainage. The latter can be continued indefinitely if kidney function is poor. 4. Definitive treatment is by retropubic or transurethral surgery. If not completely successful, suprapublic drainage should be instituted as a kidney-saving measure until the patient is old enough to permit an adequate operative procedure.
Name Management and Object Technology for Advanced Software

Name management is so fundamental to every aspect of computing that it is frequently overlooked or taken for granted. Our research is aimed at developing both models to improve understanding and mechanisms to improve practical application of name management approaches in various computing domains. One domain that seems to have particularly strong connections to name management is object technology for advanced software. Object technology has already proven very useful in our investigation of name management models and mechanisms. We also see great potential for beneficial application of improved name management mechanisms to object technology for advanced software. In this paper, we first outline our overall approach to research on name management and discuss some specific name management concerns arising in object technology for advanced software. We then illustrate the application of object technology in our efforts to construct name management models and mechanisms. Finally we give an example of how enhanced name management mechanisms might be incorporated into a representative instance of object technology for advanced software.
The British Initiative in Ulster

The British will soon unveil detailed plans to restore devolved government to Northern Ireland.' Mrs. Margaret Thatcher, encouraged by her successful efforts in Zimbabwe-Rhodesia, is determined to apply the same skills in Ulster. But can she achieve a Rhodesia-type settlement there? The search for agreement in that part of the U.K. officially began on January 7, 1980, when the British convened a conference of the main political parties in Belfast. One seasoned Ulster politician observed then: "Ulster is more difficult to resolve than Rhodesia, with its own peculiar problems which have existed for centuries. This could be one conflict the Tories can't sort out quickly. And remember that our terrorists, unlike Robert Mugabe's, aren't mollified by free elections — we have those. I am sure of one thing", he went on. "The Tories are going to act — to impose some sort of 'solution' whether the local leaders can agree or not. Whether we work that 'solution' is the real test for us and for the British."
Writing Simple Sentences and Descriptive Paragraphs: Effects of an Intervention on Adolescents with Writing Difficulties

The present study investigated the effects of a multicomponent intervention on the writing behavior of adolescents with writing difficulties. A single-case design consisting of a combination of multiple-probe design across participants and pre-post test was used. Four participants completed two intervention phases: (a) sentence instruction and frequency building to a performance criterion and (b) paragraph instruction. Results suggested a functional relation between sequential delivery of intervention and gains in accuracy and rate on sentence construction probes. Results provide tentative support that the intervention improved writing on descriptive paragraph probes.
Vibration Testing Helium Cryostat for Space Qualification of Cryocomponents

Liquid Helium Space cryostats like the Infrared Space Observatory (ISO) require cryocomponents which have passed qualification tests being more severe than the actual environmental conditions expected during ground operations, the launch and the mission. In order to perform such tests with the ISO components as well as with the focal plane units of the scientific instruments, a vibrational cryostat was built and successfully operated at 4.2 K and at acceleration levels of up to 22, 5 g (sine). The specific design allows to vibrate components with up to 12 kg in all three axes without chang- ing their position with respect to the cryostat, i.e. in a single cold cycle.
Recharge mixing in a complex distributary spring system in the Missouri Ozarks, USA

Toronto Springs is a complex distributary karst spring system with 11 perennial springs in the Missouri Ozarks, USA. Carroll Cave (CC) and Wet Glaize Creek (WG) were previously identified as principal recharge sources. This study (1) characterized physical and chemical properties of springs and recharge sources; (2) developed end-member mixing models to estimate contributing proportions of CC and WG; and (3) created a conceptual model for the system. Samples analyzed for major ions and specific conductivity, in conjunction with a rotating continuous monitoring program to identify statistically comparable baseflow conditions, were used to assess differences among the sites. Monitoring data showed that the springs differed depending upon recharge proportions. Cluster analysis of average ion concentrations supported the choice of CC and WG as mixing model end members. Results showed a range in the proportions of the recharge sources, from surface-water to groundwater dominated. A conceptual model suggests that a system of distinct conduits beneath the WG flood plain transmits water to the individual springs. These conduits controlled the end-member recharge contributions and water chemistry of the springs. Interpretation of relative proportions of recharge contributions extends existing knowledge of karst hydrologic geometry beyond that of point-to-point connections to revealing complex surface-water/groundwater mixing in heterogeneous distributary spring systems.
Incorporating additional tree and environmental variables in a lodgepole pine stem profile model

A new variable-form segmented stem profile model is developed for lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta) trees from the northern Rocky Mountains of the United States. I improved estimates of stem diameter by predicting two of the model coefficients with linear equations using a measure of tree form, defined as a ratio of dbh and total height. Additional improvements were obtained by fitting this model to individual national forest data sets. Other tree and environmental variables tested but found of little use in improving stem profile estimates were crown ratio, habitat series, elevation, slope percent, and aspect.
Time Series Analysis of Soil Moisture Data

Publisher Summary In the study described in this chapter, time-series analysis techniques and a linear autoregressive prediction model are employed in an effort to examine the internal structure of the soil moisture process. The data were generated from a study of soil moisture fluctuations under various vegetative covers that was conducted during 1950–55 at the Calhoun Experimental Forest. There were a total of 5 years of data on rainfall amounts and total soil moisture to a depth of 1.68 meters. However, only for two of the years continuous daily observations were available without any missing observations. Consequently these 730 daily records were utilized in this study. The vegetation cover was a forest of Loblolly pine. From the results of this study, several useful facts have been revealed. The presence of an overpowering autocorrelation in soil moisture data makes it impossible to perform a Fourier analysis on this series because of the “red noise” distortion of the frequency spectrum. This autoregressive effect or correlation in the data shows a very high persistence out to at least 150 days. Thus, care should be taken when performing statistical analysis on soil moisture data where independence assumptions are necessary. A first order linear autoregressive model adequately describes the soil moisture data. This model fits the data very well and accounts for over 90% of the variance in the data. Once, the deterministic components of the soil moisture series have been removed, a significant correlation is obtained between the residuals and the rainfall series.
A Theory of Republican Prerogative

The events of September 11 prompted renewed debate about the three main approaches to emergency power: statutory, constitutional, and extralegal. But the central substantive problem of the extralegal approach has yet to be carefully addressed: When may the executive violate the law without a statutory or constitutional basis for doing so? This paper identifies two principles — the privilege of republican prerogative and the obligation of a republican ethic — that combine to offer a coherent answer for certain kinds of executive lawbreaking. As its various strands have emerged from Anglo-American tradition, what I call the republican prerogative becomes available when (i) the republic faces a sudden, irregular, and existentially severe threat; (ii) the executive’s response is strictly necessary and does not exceed the scope of the exigent threat; and (iii) the executive discloses and takes responsibility for the violation. Republican prerogative may not be the only type of justifiable extralegal privilege, but it has a long (though theoretically underdeveloped) historical pedigree and a striking (though latent) coherence.One problem remains. If the republican prerogative is extralegal in character, how can we speak intelligibly of limits on its exercise? The answer identified here emerges from what I call the republican ethic: a normative claim that our constitutional republic is an intrinsically value-bearing entity, worthy of moral consideration and creating moral obligations in its own right. On this view, the moral requirements of a republican ethic — itself grounded in a possessive embrace of our legal system — trump the legal requirements of our Constitution and laws.
Theoretical thermodynamic functions for argon gas

Theoretical thermodynamic functions are computed for argon gas assuming a pair‐potential function of the Lennard‐Jones 6‐12 form. A parametric integral equation is used to obtain radial distribution functions which are then used to obtain the pressure and internal energy. The entropy, enthalpy, heat capacity at constant volume, Helmholtz function, and Gibbs function are then obtained as functions of temperature and density. The parameter in the integral equation is obtained by requiring agreement in the theoretical and experimental pressures at high density. The theoretical computations are compared with experimental results for a range of temperatures from 0 to 150 °C and for densities up to 640 amagat (pressures to 2900 atm). The agreement between experiment and theory is reasonably good; however, some differences indicate that improvement might be obtained using a different pair‐potential function.
Hydrocarbon-metal reactions during metal arc welding under oil (MAW-UO)

AbstractMetal arc welding under oil is a new, revolutionary process for the repairs of pipelines which should minimise the need of hot tapping repairs and the construction of bypass lines. The process uses an automated metal arc welding set-up with a continuous wire feed. This process was developed for the in situ internal repairs of in service cross-country pipelines, tanks and vessels by using a smart pig with a modified mechanical design that allows for joint preparation and welding. The unique characteristics found in the under oil arc are discussed in detail. The large range of temperatures that exists between the arc at the order of 10 000°C (18 000°F) and the surrounding oil (ambient) allows for complex reactions between the oil hydrocarbon chains and the steel weld metal. These reactions may considerably impact the weld microstructure. Details of the dissociation of hydrocarbon chains and ionisation of the resulting species must be known to better control the process. In addition, vaporisation of ...
In vivo assessment of lipid peroxidation products associated with age-related neurodegenerative diseases.

Numerous in vitro and cell culture experiments indicate that oxidative damage decreases astrocyte glutamate transport activity, and it has been proposed that products of lipid peroxidation, particularly 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal, may contribute to neurodegenerative diseases via inhibition of glutamate or glucose transporter activity. We have directly tested the hypothesis that lipid peroxidation products impair glutamate and glucose transport in vivo. Lipid peroxidation products that irreversibly modify protein lysyl residues caused a two- to sixfold elevation in extracellular glutamate in striatum and cerebral cortex of both freely moving and anesthetized rats undergoing microdialysis. No concomitant change in extracellular glucose concentrations was observed. Furthermore, lipid peroxidation product-evoked extracellular glutamate appeared to be derived from nonneuronal sources. Our results demonstrate a biochemical mechanism whereby oxidative damage products can increase extracellular glutamate levels in vivo, providing support for the proposal that oxidative damage leads to inhibition of glutamate transport and thereby may contribute to the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.
The Liquid Crystal Spatial Light Modulators: Recent Studies

Recent studies in the areas of the photoactivated and CCD-addressed liquid crystal light valves, as well as improvements in the operation of the visible to IR dynamic image converter (VIDIC) will be discussed.
Effect of denervation on endothelium-derived relaxing factor-dependent relaxation in the rat cremaster muscle

Endothelium-derived relaxation mediated primarily by endothelium-derived relaxing factor/nitric oxide (EDRF/NO) is essential in the maintenance of vascular tone. However, little is known about the effects of denervation on EDRF-mediated relaxation in the microcirculation after reimplantation. Using intravital videomicroscopy in the rat cremaster model, this study assessed the effect of acute and chronic denervation of the muscle, produced by severing the genitofemoral nerve, on EDRF-mediated vasorelaxation. The results demonstrated that acetylcholine-induced EDRF relaxation (10(-6)M) significantly relieved norepinephrine-induced vasoconstriction in small arteries (40-80 microns diameter) in both the acute and chronic denervated muscles. There was no significant difference in the relaxant response between the denervated or innervated controls in each group or between the acute or chronic groups. This relaxation was prevented by methylene blue (10(-4) M). These findings suggest that EDRF-mediated relaxation in the microcirculation is not dependent on tissue innervation. Thus the use of potent endothelial dependent agonists may be of use in cases of vasospasm postreimplantation.
Characterization of a homologue of bithorax-complex genes in the leech Hirudo medicinalis

WE report the isolation and characterization of the Hirudo medicinalis homoeobox gene Lox2. Sequence analysis shows that it contains a region that has homology toDrosophila and vertebrate homoeodomains of the Antennapedia class. In addition, Lox2 shares homology with sequences in the bithorax complex Ultra-bithorax ( Ubx) and abdominalA (abdA) genes in a region adjacent to the C-terminus of the homoeodomain. Whole mount in situ hybridization of embryos of various ages demonstrates that during early development this gene has temporally and spatially restricted patterns of expression that resemble those of the homoeotic genes of the Drosophila bithorax complex and of many vertebrate homoeobox genes. The largest accumulation of transcripts was seen in the posterior two-thirds of the developing leech central nervous system in 7–14-day-old embryos. Adult leeches also express Lox2. We propose that in Hirudo, Lox2 represents the ancestral gene of the Ubx and abdA genes of the bithorax complex of Drosophila.
Robotically assisted fluorescence-guided lymph node mapping with ICG for gynecologic malignancies: a feasibility study.

Abstract Objective Traditional techniques of sentinel lymph node (SLN) mapping for endometrial and cervical cancer present challenges which may be overcome with newer technologies such as near infrared (NIR) imaging of the fluorescent dye Indocyanine green (ICG). We performed a feasibility and dose-finding study to define the dose of ICG required to identify pelvic and para-aortic sentinel lymph nodes with robotically assisted endoscopic NIR imaging after cervical injection. Methods 20 subjects with cervical or endometrial carcinoma were prospectively enrolled for SLN mapping. ICG was injected into the cervical stroma at 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock Data was collected for the number of nodes identified, the location of SLN's, the duration of procedure and the pathology characteristics of the SLN's compared to the non-sentinel lymph nodes. Results 20 subjects received cervical injection with at least one SLN observed in 17 subjects. 15 of the 17 subjects who received 1mg injections of ICG mapped a SLN for an observed detection rate of 88% (95% CI is (64%,99%)). A median of 4.5 SLN's was identified per patient. Three patients had lymphatic metastases, one of whom had a positive SLN. No adverse events were identified. Conclusions A 1mg cervical injection of ICG identified a SLN in 88% of patients (95% CI is (64%, 99%)). Robotically assisted fluorescence imaging is a feasible, safe, time efficient and reliable method for lymphatic mapping in early stage cervical and endometrial cancer.
What Inhibits Achievement and Career Motivation in Women

Women have not caught up with the opportunities available to them to contribute fo society through their careers. Not only do women not contribute as much as men to the humanities, arts and sciences, they do not contribute commensurate with their talents and potential. It is assumed that women's lesser contribution through their careers is related to their motivation. Several factors related to inhibited career and achievement motivation in women are examined, based on evidence in the research literature. A related study in progress is describede Ahumanistic goal for both sexes is proposed, based on sex free roles.
UV/visible/near-infrared reflectance spectroscopic determination of cotton fiber and trash content in lint cotton waste

Lint cleaning at cotton processing facilities is performed in order to remove the non-lint materials with minimal fiber damage. The resultant waste contains some degree of cotton fiber having good equal qualities, and hence is of great concern for operating cost. Traditional methods for measuring non-lint trash are labor intensive and time consuming. UV / visible / NIR technique was examined for its feasibility in determining the portions of cotton fiber and trash. Overall result indicated that NIR prediction was limited to screening purpose for probable reasons as heterogeneous trash distribution, relatively small sampling, and gravimetric reference method.
γ-Tubulin complexes and their interaction with microtubule-organizing centers

γ-Tubulin is as ubiquitous in eukaryotes as a- and β-tubulin. Rather than forming part of the microtubule wall, however, γ-tubulin is involved in microtubule nucleation. Although gg-tubulin concentrates at microtubule-organizing centers, it also exists in a cytoplasmic complex whose size and complexity depends on the organism and cell type. In the past year, progress in understanding the functions of γ-tubulin was made on two fronts: identifying the proteins that interact with γy-tubulin and identifying the proteins that interact with the γ-tubulin complex to tether it to the microtubule-organizing center.
mCOPD: mobile phone based lung function diagnosis and exercise system for COPD

COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) is a serious lung disease that causes difficulty in breathing. COPD patients require lung function examinations and perform breathing exercises on a regular basis in order to manage and be more aware of their health status. In this paper, we designed and developed a mobile-phone based system for lung function diagnosis, called mCOPD. Besides enabling accurate COPD examinations at home, the mCOPD system also offers a video-game based guidance system for breathing exercises. We evaluated mCOPD in controlled and uncontrolled environments with 40 subjects. The experimental results show that our system is a promising tool for remote medical treatment of COPD.
Formation of Hrad Vallis (Mars) by low viscosity lava flows

Abstract Hrad Vallis is a Martian outflow channel previously interpreted as a product of aqueous outbursts from the subsurface, possibly involving mudflows associated with lahar-like events. However, an alternative volcanic hypothesis for the development of the system is worthy of consideration on the basis of (1) the nature of landforms preserved along component channels and adjacent uplands and (2) similarities between the basic properties of this system and large volcanic channels of the inner solar system. Hrad Vallis commences on the distal flanks of the Elysium Mons shield volcano, terminates within extensive volcanic plains, is associated with landforms typical of large volcanic channels, and shows evidence for having been a conduit for large volumes of lava. The properties of this system are consistent with incision by low viscosity lava. Crude thermal estimates suggest that this system could have formed through effusion of as little as ~ 10,900 km 3 of magma to the surface, or ~ 6% of the volume of the terrestrial Columbia River Basalt Group. Incision rates of up to several meters per day are estimated for mechanical and thermal processes involving lava flows with depths of 5–20 m and dynamic viscosities of ~ 1 Pa s. Flow of lava within the Hrad Vallis system is predicted to have been fully turbulent and characterized by discharges as great as ~ 865,000 m 3 /s. Predicted flow conditions are consistent with those previously determined for Athabasca Valles, which also formed as a result of the expulsion of flows from structures associated with Elysium Mons.
Cardiovascular disease of connective tissue origin

Abstract Inherited abnormalities of connective tissue elements often cause changes in the structure and function of the cardiovascular system. Well-known heritable disorders of connective tissue in which cardiovascular abnormalities are prominent include the Marfan syndrome and the Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Connective tissue abnormalities also occur without the associated features of a recognized syndrome. These include isolated valvular prolapse and anuloaortic ectasia. In this review, the cardiovascular features of connective tissue abnormalities—both the recognized syndromes and the isolated abnormalities—are described, important concepts in the diagnosis and treatment of these disorders are reviewed, and the classification of inherited connective tissue abnormalities of the cardiovascular system is discussed.
Cloning of GMP-140, a granule membrane protein of platelets and endothelium: sequence similarity to proteins involved in cell adhesion and inflammation.

Abstract GMP-140 is an integral membrane glycoprotein found in secretory granules of platelets and endothelial cells. After cellular activation, it is rapidly redistributed to the plasma membrane. The cDNA-derived primary structure of GMP-140 predicts a cysteine-rich protein with multiple domains, including a "lectin" region, an "EGF" domain, nine tandem consensus repeats related to those in complement-binding proteins, a transmembrane domain, and a short cytoplasmic tail. Some cDNAs also predict a soluble protein with a deleted transmembrane segment. The domain organization of GMP-140 is similar to that of ELAM-1, a cytokine-inducible endothelial cell receptor that binds neutrophils. This similarity suggests that GMP-140 belongs to a new family of inducible receptors with related structure and function on vascular cells.