cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of Light Polarization on Multiphoton Ionization of Atoms

We present a theoretical interpretation of an effect recently observed in two- and three-photon ionization of Cs. We show that the total cross sections for two- and three-photon ionization of a one-electron atom depend on the polarization of the incident light. Expressions are derived for the ratio of the cross section for circularly polarized light to that for linearly polarized, and their maximum values are obtained.
Adaptive virtual environments for neuropsychological assessment in serious games

While advances in military relevant simulations provide potential for increasing assessment of Soldier readiness to Return-to-Duty (e.g., following a blast injury), little has been done to develop these simulations into adaptive virtual environments (AVE) for improved neurocognitive and psychophysiological assessment. Adaptive assessments offer the potential for dynamically adapting the difficulty level specific to the patient's knowledge or ability. We present an iteration of the Virtual Reality for Cognitive Performance and Adaptive Treatment (VRCPAT) that proffers a framework for adapting scenarios in a game engine based upon the user's neurocognitive (task performance) and psychophysiological (e.g., heart rate, skin response, heart rate, and pupil diameter) states.
Context-dependent fusion for landmine detection with ground penetrating radar

We present a novel method for fusing the results of multiple landmine detection algorithms that use different types of features and different classification methods. The proposed fusion method, called Context-Dependent Fusion (CDF) is motivated by the fact that the relative performance of different detectors can vary significantly depending on the mine type, geographical site, soil and weather conditions, and burial depth. The training part of CDF has two components: context extraction and algorithm fusion. In context extraction, the features used by the different algorithms are combined and used to partition the feature space into groups of similar signatures, or contexts. The algorithm fusion component assigns an aggregation weight to each detector in each context based on its relative performance within the context. Results on large and diverse Ground Penetrating Radar data collections show that the proposed method can identify meaningful and coherent clusters and that different expert algorithms can be identified for the different contexts. Our initial experiments have also indicated that the context-dependent fusion outperforms all individual detectors.
Bacteria and Archaea Physically Associated with Gulf of Mexico Gas Hydrates

Although there is significant interest in the potential interactions of microbes with gas hydrate, no direct physical association between them has been demonstrated. We examined several intact samples of naturally occurring gas hydrate from the Gulf of Mexico for evidence of microbes. All samples were collected from anaerobic hemipelagic mud within the gas hydrate stability zone, at water depths in the ca. 540- to 2,000-m range. The delta 13C of hydrate-bound methane varied from -45.1per thousand Peedee belemnite (PDB) to -74.7per thousand PDB, reflecting different gas origins. Stable isotope composition data indicated microbial consumption of methane or propane in some of the samples. Evidence of the presence of microbes was initially determined by 4,6-diamidino 2-phenylindole dihydrochloride (DAPI) total direct counts of hydrate-associated sediments (mean = 1.5 × 109 cells g-1) and gas hydrate (mean = 1.0 × 106 cells ml-1). Small-subunit rRNA phylogenetic characterization was performed to assess the composition of the microbial community in one gas hydrate sample (AT425) that had no detectable associated sediment and showed evidence of microbial methane consumption. Bacteria were moderately diverse within AT425 and were dominated by gene sequences related to several groups of Proteobacteria, as well as Actinobacteria and low-G + C Firmicutes. In contrast, there was low diversity of Archaea, nearly all of which were related to methanogenic Archaea, with the majority specifically related to Methanosaeta spp. The results of this study suggest that there is a direct association between microbes and gas hydrate, a finding that may have significance for hydrocarbon flux into the Gulf of Mexico and for life in extreme environments.
A Study of Mexican Free-Tailed Bat Chirp Syllables: Bayesian Functional Mixed Models for Nonstationary Acoustic Time Series.

We describe a new approach to analyze chirp syllables of free-tailed bats from two regions of Texas in which they are predominant: Austin and College Station. Our goal is to characterize any systematic regional differences in the mating chirps and assess whether individual bats have signature chirps. The data are analyzed by modeling spectrograms of the chirps as responses in a Bayesian functional mixed model. Given the variable chirp lengths, we compute the spectrograms on a relative time scale interpretable as the relative chirp position, using a variable window overlap based on chirp length. We use two-dimensional wavelet transforms to capture correlation within the spectrogram in our modeling and obtain adaptive regularization of the estimates and inference for the regions-specific spectrograms. Our model includes random effect spectrograms at the bat level to account for correlation among chirps from the same bat and to assess relative variability in chirp spectrograms within and between bats. The mo...
Prevalence of infertility in the United States as estimated by the current duration approach and a traditional constructed approach.

Objective To estimate the prevalence of infertility using a current duration approach for comparison with a traditional constructed measure. Design Cross-sectional survey. Setting Not applicable. Patient(s) A nationally representative sample of females aged 15–44 years. Intervention(s) None. Main Outcome Measure(s) Infertility prevalence estimated by two approaches: [1] a constructed measure derived from questions on sexual activity, contraception, relationship status, and pregnancy, and [2] a measure based on estimated time to pregnancy derived from the respondents' current duration of pregnancy attempt (i.e., current duration approach). Associations with self-reported descriptive characteristics using weighted logistic regression or parametric survival models for each respective approach. Result(s) Infertility prevalence was approximately twofold higher using the current duration approach (15.5%; 95% confidence interval 8.6%–27.5%) vs. the constructed measure (7.0%; 95% confidence interval 6.2%–7.8%). Both methods identified similar patterns of increasing age, lower education, nulliparity, and history of gynecologic disorders as being associated with measures of impaired fecundity, whereas opposing patterns were seen for racial/ethnic identification and poverty status. Conclusion(s) Infertility prevalence based on a current duration approach was consistent with other US prospective cohort studies with preconception enrollment. These findings underscore the importance of definition and methodologic approach for estimating the prevalence of infertility.
Microgrid-Connected PV-Based Sources: A Novel Autonomous Control Method for Maintaining Maximum Power

This article studies the control configuration of a microgrid-connected photovoltaic (MCPV) source. In the control of an MCPV, maximum power point (MPP) tracking, droop control, and dc bus voltage regulation are the main required functions. To increase their penetration in the microgrid, MCPV sources have to participate in the microgrid?s frequency regulation. Consequently, MCPVs may be forced to depart from MPP for short periods of time. In this article, a control method is proposed to operate the MCPV in the MPP at all times except when there is a need to stabilize the frequency. The method achieves this objective autonomously without the need to change the control configuration. This method is explained, and its superiority over other controllers to achieve the same objective is investigated. The suggested control configurations are validated through simulation studies and experiments.
The Universal Semiconductor Memory

This paper examines the requisites for emerging semiconductor memory technologies to becoming potential candidates replacing all or most of the existing semiconductor memory technologies.
Mutation of a barrier insulator in the human ankyrin-1 gene is associated with hereditary spherocytosis

Defects of the ankyrin-1 gene are the most common cause in humans of hereditary spherocytosis, an inherited anemia that affects patients of all ethnic groups. In some kindreds, linked -108/-153 nucleotide substitutions have been found in the upstream region of the ankyrin gene promoter that is active in erythroid cells. In vivo, the ankyrin erythroid promoter and its upstream region direct position-independent, uniform expression, a property of barrier insulators. Using human erythroid cell lines and primary cells and transgenic mice, here we have demonstrated that a region upstream of the erythroid promoter is a barrier insulator in vivo in erythroid cells. The region exhibited both functional and structural characteristics of a barrier, including prevention of gene silencing in an in vivo functional assay, appropriate chromatin configuration, and occupancy by barrier-associated proteins. Fragments with the -108/-153 spherocytosis-associated mutations failed to function as barrier insulators in vivo and demonstrated perturbations in barrier-associated chromatin configuration. In transgenic mice, flanking a mutant -108/-153 ankyrin gene promoter with the well-characterized chicken HS4 barrier insulator restored position-independent, uniform expression at levels comparable to wild-type. These data indicate that an upstream region of the ankyrin-1 erythroid promoter acts as a barrier insulator and identify disruption of the barrier element as a potential pathogenetic mechanism of human disease.
Functional relations of crab molt-inhibiting hormone and neurohypophysial peptides

Abstract Biological and immunological relationships between molt-inhibiting hormone (MIH) activity in eyestalk ganglia extracts of the crab, Cancer antennarius Stimpson, and peptides of the vasopressin-oxytocin family were assessed. Lysine vasopressin (LVP), arginine vasopressin (AVP), vasotocin (VT), and oxytocin (OT) mimicked MIH action by inhibiting ecdysteroid production of Y-organ segments in vitro with the relative potencies LVP>AVP>VT>>>OT. The inhibitory effect was reversible and specific (6 other peptides did not alter Y-organ activity). MIH and LVP increased Y-organ cyclic adenosine 3′,5′ monophosphate (cAMP) levels dose-dependently and with identical time course in which the rise in cAMP preceded inhibition of ecdysteroid production. The synthetic vasopressin antidiuretic agonist 1-deamino-8-D-AVP (dDAVP) inhibited Y-organ steroidogenesis dose-dependently; the vasopressin analog ([1(B-mercapto-β,β-cyclopentamethylenepropionic acid), 2-(O-methyl)tyrosine[AVP) (d(CH 2 ) 5 Tyr(Me)AVP), a vasopressor antagonist, had no effect on basal or MIH-suppressed steroidogensis. AVP antiserum abolished the inhibitory action of MIH, LVP, and AVP. Competitive binding curves for MIH, LVP, AVP, VT, and OT with the AVP antiserum suggested that MIH is most closely related to LVP. MIH may be structurally related to the vasopressins and act on Y-organ cells via type V2 (cAMP-linked) receptors.
Cognitive and affective outcomes of more severe compared to less severe carbon monoxide poisoning

Primary objective: To assess cognitive sequelae, depression and anxiety following carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.Research design: Prospective cohort study.Methods and procedures: This study prospectively followed 256 patients, 55 with less severe and 201 with more severe CO-poisoning. The prevalence of cognitive sequelae, depression and anxiety at 6 weeks, 6 months and 12 months was compared in patients with less severe and more severe CO-poisoning.Main outcomes and results: Of the less severe CO-poisoned patients, 39% had cognitive sequelae, 21% depression and 30% anxiety at 6 weeks. Of the more severe CO-poisoned patients, 35% had cognitive sequelae, 16% depression and 11% anxiety at 6 weeks. There was no difference in the prevalence of cognitive sequelae at any time. The prevalence of depression was higher in patients with less compared with more severe CO-poisoning at 6 months (p= 0.04), but not 6 weeks or 12 months. The prevalence of anxiety was higher in patients with less compared to more severe CO...
Analysis of Vehicle Longitudinal Dynamics for Longitudinal Ride Comfort

Longitudinal ride comfort is one of the most crucial features to most advanced vehicle control systems. Literature review shows that the ride comfort analysis in vehicle longitudinal motion can be divided into two categories: time domain and frequency domain. Most vehicle longitudinal control designs incorporate jerk and acceleration constraints from the time-domain comfort criterion. However, the vehicle longitudinal characteristics in the frequency range important to passenger ride comfort are rarely discussed in the vehicle control literature. This paper proposes an improved vehicle longitudinal model that captures tire and suspension modes accurately and investigates the impact of these often-ignored vehicle resonant modes to ride comfort. This study shows that the "tire-mode switching behavior" affects longitudinal ride comfort of a stopping vehicle rather than the suspension. A passenger car was tested as an example, and the collected data verified the analytical prediction from the improved vehicle longitudinal model.© 2006 ASME
Research in Dermatologic Surgery and Oncology

. The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery and The Skin Cancer Foundation have each helped to promote advances in dermatologic surgery and oncology by funding basic research. Their activity is presented.
Effect of poultry waste feeding on intake, body weight and milk yield of Holstein cows.

Abstract Forty lactating Holstein cows were fed 0, 5.9, 11.7, or 17.4% processed poultry excreta in total mixed rations. The effect of treatment was evaluated on feed intake, BW, milk yield, and composition. Processed poultry excreta appeared to be well accepted by cows even when included in rations at 17.4% of total DM. Mean DM intake averaged 19.3, 19.7, 19.5, and 19.7 kg/d for cows fed 0, 5.9, 11.7, and 17.4% processed poultry excreta, respectively. Body weight change averaged 2.0, 1.7, –1.7, and 1.4 kg/wk from 90 to 180 d of lactation for cows fed from 0 to 17.4% processed poultry excreta, respectively. Fat-corrected milk (4%) yield was similar among treatment groups, averaging 24.2, 26.1, 24.6, and 25.1 kg/d for cows fed 0, 5.9, 11.7, and 17.4% processed poultry excreta. No differences were found for milk and fat yield or percentage fat among treatment means. No off flavors in milk could be attributed to processed poultry excreta added to feed. Processed poultry excreta fed up to 17.4% of total mixed rations supported both adequate feed intake and high milk yields of mid-lactation cows.
Effects of Achronic Colostomy in Turkeys

Abstract Previously, it was reported that young turkeys, 8 to 10 weeks of age, had a greatly increased water turnover during the 2 weeks following preparation of a rectal fistula or colostomy (Scheiber and Dziuk, 1969). The opinion was that turkeys with a higher water turnover could not be satisfactorily used for certain experiments because they were not physiologically normal. Since only young turkeys were studied immediately after recovery from the surgical procedure, the purpose in the present study was to determine whether older turkeys which had more time to adjust to the effects of the fistula would have a reduction to normal in volume of water turnover. MATERIALS AND METHODS Nine, Wrolstad, Medium White turkeys of both sexes were used. All turkeys were fed a commercially available ration (Turkey Formula 22, Land O’Lakes Creameries, Inc., Minneapolis, Minnesota). Turkeys were kept in a room in which temperature, humidity, and lights were…
Development and characterization of magnetorheological polymer gels

Magnetorheological materials have been used in many applications in recent years. To develop new materials, polyurethane and silicone polymer gels were investigated. Rheology is qualitatively controlled for each system by controlling the concentration of reactants and diluents. The resulting polymers have solid, gel, or liquid states, depending on the crosslinking and dilution. The gels were characterized through kinetic analysis. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was used with analysis methods to find the kinetic properties for diluted and undiluted polyurethane systems. Heat of reaction, order of reaction, preexponential constant, and activation energy were obtained from the experimental DSC data.
De novo synthesis of polyhydroxyl aminocyclohexanes.

The syntheses of 12 stereochemically diverse polyhydroxyl aminocyclohexane (“aminocyclitols”) derivatives are described. These short syntheses require 2–5 steps from N-(2,4-cyclohexadien-1-yl)phthalimide, which is prepared in two steps from tricarbonyl(cyclohexadienyl)iron(1+). The relative stereochemistries of the aminocyclitols were assigned by 1H NMR spectroscopy as well as X-ray diffraction analysis.
Großbritanniens neue Universitäten

Mit der Umwandlung der bisherigen „Polytechnics” in Universitaten haben sich bisher 38 Institutionen neue Statuten und Namen gegeben. Damit ist die Zahl der Universitaten in Grosbritannien auf fast 100 angewachsen - eine oft verwirrende Vielfalt, besonders fur zukunftige Studienplatzbewerber. Schwergewicht der „neuen” Universitaten wird auch weiterhin die anwendungsbezogene Ausbildung sein; die Mehrzahl werden zu „Teaching Universities”. Sie konkurrieren allerdings verstarkt mit den etablierten Universitaten um Studienplatzbewerber und verscharfen den Kostendruck.
Dual roles of the A kinase-anchoring protein Yotiao in the modulation of a cardiac potassium channel: a passive adaptor versus an active regulator.

Abstract Cardiac function is regulated critically by the autonomic nervous system to adapt to the physical activity and emotional stress. A slowly activating cardiac potassium channel ( I Ks ) is modulated by stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) and contributes to cardiac action potential shortening in the face of concomitant increases in heart rate. Activation of β -adrenergic receptors in response to SNS stimulation results in protein kinase A (PKA)-mediated phosphorylation of I Ks channels. We have found that the functional regulation of the I Ks channel by PKA requires the A kinase-anchoring protein (AKAP) Yotiao. Yotiao forms a macromolecular complex with the channel and recruits key enzymes such as PKA and protein phosphatase 1 (PP1) to control the phosphorylation state of I Ks . Our recent findings revealed a more active role of Yotiao in the PKA modulation of I Ks . We found that Yotiao participates actively in translating the phosphorylation-induced change into altered channel activity. Moreover Yotiao itself can be phosphorylated by PKA upon β -adrenergic stimulation. Ablation of Yotiao phosphorylation impairs PKA-induced changes in I Ks voltage-dependent activation and current kinetics. Taken together we have evidence to suggest that Yotiao plays dual roles in the PKA modulation of the I Ks channel. It acts not only as an adaptor protein to coordinate enzymatic reactions but also as an active regulator that directly affects channel function.
SEX OF SCHISTOSOME CERCARIAE AS A FACTOR IN THE IMMUNIZATION OF RHESUS MONKEYS.

Abstract A strong acquired resistance against challenge infection of Schistosoma japonicum or S. mansoni in rhesus monkeys was produced by previous immunization with either male or female cercariae of the respective species. In the case of S. japonicum, the immunizing cercariae can be either nonirradiated or irradiated human strain, or non-irradiated nonhuman strain. Qualitatively there was no difference in immunogenicity between sexes of schistosome cercariae. However, a possibility exists that quantitatively male schistosomula may produce more functional antigens than female schistosomula because the former are usually better developed and larger than the latter.
Reaction and surface characterization studies of titania-supported Co, Pt and Co/Pt catalysts for the selective oxidation of CO in H2-containing streams

Abstract The selective, catalytic oxidation of CO in H 2 -containing streams was investigated over titania-supported Co, Pt and Co/Pt catalysts. The work was motivated by the need to remove CO from the reformate fed to a polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC) before it can poison the Pt anode. Pt/TiO 2 catalysts were active over a broad range of temperatures with a maximum at 120 °C. Co/TiO 2 catalysts were effective for CO oxidation at high temperatures (>100 °C). Mixed metal Co/Pt catalysts were quite effective, even at room temperature. The presence of H 2 O and CO 2 , major components of actual reformate, reduced the activity of all the catalysts tested, but less so for the Co/Pt catalyst. Activity decreased over long times but an intermittent, high-temperature “purge” regenerated the original activity. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and temperature-programmed reduction (TPR) were used to understand the synergism between metal components. The Pt either influenced activity by helping reduce the Co, or the Pt and/or Co stabilized a Ti suboxide state that may play a role in the reaction process. The latter is most likely attributable to the strong metal support interaction (SMSI) effect previously noted on Pt/TiO 2 catalysts.
Resolution of multiple fluorescence lifetimes in heterogeneous systems by phase-modulation fluorometry

Procedures are described for the treatment of phase and modulation lifetime data in fluorescent systems having multiexponential decay. All computer procedures (called FIT programs) arise from the lifetime resolution theory for phase-modulation measurements (Weber, G. (1981) J. Phys. Chem. 85, 949-953). The programs most successful in resolving heterogeneous lifetimes use a Monte Carlo approach in which phase and modulation lifetime data at three modulation frequencies are simultaneously utilized. These programs are shown to have more utility than the final closed form procedure presented by Weber (1981). The FIT routines are simple and require little computer time while yielding excellent results. To illustrate the applicability of these programs, defined binary (carbazole and pyrene) and ternary systems (carbazole, pyrene and POPOP) were examined. In most cases, the resolved lifetimes were within 5% of the independently measured value and the fractional fluorescence contributions were within 10% of that expected. These results demonstrate that phase-modulation measurements analyzed by appropriate computer programs are capable of solving for lifetimes in both binary and, in selected cases, ternary systems. An example is given from the recent literature (Dalbey, R., Weiel, J. and Yount, R.G. (1983) Biochemistry 22, 4696-4706) in which the above programs allowed the resolution of both binary and ternary lifetimes of a dansyl label on myosin, where Forster energy transfer was occurring. These lifetimes were used to quantify changes in distances between two activity-related thiols on myosin upon the addition of Mg-ATP or its analogs.
Eosinophils and T-lymphocytes in late-phase allergic reactions

Allergic LPRs are delayed-in-time, IgE-dependent responses characterized by inflammatory cell infiltrates, which have been recognized in the lung (as airway obstruction), skin (as erythema and edema), nose (as blockage and itching), and conjunctiva (as edema and itching) of atopic individuals 3 to I2 hours after exposure to relevant allergens. The pathogenesis of the LPR remains unresolved. A number of mechanisms have been proposed to explain the LPR, invoking chemical mediators and/or products of inflammatory cells. It is now generally accepted that the expression of the LPR is associated with the release of a variety of chemical mediators from several ceil types, including mast cells, resident cells, and inflammatory cells attracted as a result of the immediate IgE-dependent response. ” * Several of the chemical mediators and mast cell products liberated during atopic allergic reactions can induce macroscopic CLPRs in man or in
Relationship of age and sex-role conflict for professional women in human services.

This study provides external validation of the Sex-role Conflict Scale. The relationship between age and sex-role conflict among women with educational interests was investigated. 128 female studen...
Validity evidence based on internal structure

Background: Validity evidence based on the internal structure of an assessment is one of the five forms of validity evidence stipulated in the Standards for Educational and Psychological Testing of the American Educational Research Association, American Psychological Association, and National Council on Measurement in Education. In this paper, we describe the concepts underlying internal structure and the statistical methods for gathering and analyzing internal structure. Method: An in-depth description of the traditional and modern techniques for evaluating the internal structure of an assessment. Results: Validity evidence based on the internal structure of an assessment is necessary for building a validity argument to support the use of a test for a particular purpose. Conclusions: The methods described in this paper provide practitioners with a variety of tools for assessing dimensionality, measurement invariance and reliability for an educational test or other types of assessment.
Collective memory and autobiographical memory: Similar but not the same

Sociologists and psychologists have independently identified the same general period in individual development for the formation of many memories. Yet the cross-disciplinary similarity is rarely re...
Ultrasonic scattering models for distribution of cracks

Abstract To evaluate the initiation and growth behaviour of a distribution of cracks, an acoustic scattering model for a planar distribution of cracks is developed based on generalized reciprocity theory and Kino's scattering formalism. Subsequently, an acoustic scattering model for a linear distribution of surface cracks in the form of the local stress intensity factors is derived by using the elastostatic energy balance of crack formation. The numerical evaluation of the reflection coefficient of Rayleigh waves for a linear distribution of semi-elliptic surface cracks is subsequently performed. The results show that the reflection coefficient, varying with respect to the crack depth ratio for a linear distribution of cracks, can effectively be evaluated by using the model.
Unsteady Swirling Flows in Annular Cascades, Part 2: Aerodynamic Blade Response

A model is developed for the interaction of unsteady incident disturbance in a swirling mean motion with an annular cascade of unloaded blades. The incident disturbances are modeled by using a combined eigenmode analysis with initial-value problem solutions as described elsewhere (Golubev, V. V., and Atassi, H. M., “ Unsteady Swirling Flows in Annular Cascades, Part 1: Evolution of Incident Disturbances,” AIAA Journal, Vol. 38, No. 7, 2000, pp. 1142 ‐1149). The scattered e eld is calculated in response to the blade upwash and accounts for the effects of the centrifugal and Coriolis forces induced by the mean swirl. Benchmark resultsarepresented fortheunsteady blade pressure in the rotor-wake/stator interaction problem. These results are compared with the strip theory and show strong dependence on the swirl-induced changes in the radial distribution and axial evolution of the incident vortical disturbances.
Development of a Novel Surrogate Virus for Human T-Cell Leukemia Virus Type 1: Inhibition of Infection by Osteoprotegerin

To develop a high-titer surrogate virus for human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1), we generated recombinant vesicular stomatitis viruses (VSVs) in which the gene encoding the single transmembrane glycoprotein (G) was deleted. Genes encoding HTLV-1 envelope glycoproteins (HTEnv) or HTEnvG hybrid proteins were then inserted into either of two different sites in the VSV genome. The viruses also encoded a green fluorescent protein. With this surrogate virus, we found that a soluble protein, osteoprotegerin (OPG), or an OPG/Fc chimeric protein inhibited the infection of various cell lines. Our experiments indicate that this inhibition resulted from binding of heparan sulfate by OPG.
Toward Variable Recruitment Fluidic Artificial Muscles

We investigate taking advantage of the lightweight, compliant nature of fluidic artificial muscles to create variable recruitment actuators in the form of artificial muscle bundles. Several actuator elements at different diameter scales are packaged to act as a single actuator device. The actuator elements of the bundle can be connected to the fluidic control circuit so that different groups of actuator elements, much like individual muscle fibers, can be activated independently depending on the required force output and motion. This novel actuation concept allows us to save energy by effectively selecting the size of the actuators on the fly based on the instantaneous required load, versus the traditional method wherein actuators are sized for the maximum required load, and energy is wasted by oversized actuators most of the time. This design also allows a single bundled actuator to operate in substantially different force regimes, which could be valuable for robots that need to perform a wide variety of tasks and interact safely with humans. This paper will propose this actuator concept and show preliminary results of the design, fabrication, and experimental characterization of three such bioinspired variable recruitment actuator prototypes.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Effects of Sponge Encrustation on the Swimming Behaviour, Energetics and Morphometry of the Scallop Chlamys Hastata

The effect of sponge encrustation on swimming ability of Chlamys hastata was determined by investigating swimming behaviour, scallop morphometry, and energy expended during swimming with and without commensal epibionts. Scallops swam significantly longer after sponge encrustation was removed from their shells, but no significant differences were detected in swimming elevation or distance. Scallops with sponge encrustation showed no adductor muscle hypertrophy or changes in shell morphometry compared to scallops without encrustation. However, C. hastata did exhibit scaling relationships associated with maximizing swimming efficiency. Specifically, shell width and adductor muscle mass were positively allometric with shell height, while shell mass was negatively allometric with shell height. Scallops increased their energy expenditure (both aerobic and anaerobic) during valve-clapping, but no significant difference was detected between unencrusted (43.0 μmol adenosine triphosphate [ATP] consumed during a two min escape swim) and sponge-encrusted (40.0 μmol ATP) scallops. Scallops in both treatments derived 86% of the energy used for swimming from anaerobic sources. The lack of substantial differences between scallops with and without commensal sponges is partially explained by the observation that even heavy sponge encrustation increases the immersed weight of the scallop by only 5%. The presence of a sponge encrustation does not appear to inhibit swimming by this scallop species.
A Decade of Child-Initiated Family Violence: Comparative Analysis of Child--Parent Violence and Parricide Examining Offender, Victim, and Event Characteristics in a National Sample of Reported Incidents, 1995-2005

This article examines 11 years (1995-2005) of National Incident Based Reporting System data comparing victim, offender, and incident characteristics for two types of child-initiated family violence: child–parent violence (CPV) and parricide. The objective is to better understand the victim–offender relationship for CPV and parricide and to highlight distinguishing features between the two offenses. This work extends the research and addresses shortcomings in the extant literature. Data analysis consists of chi-square tests and logistic regression. Findings suggest that CPV and parricide are distinct and unique crimes. In short, parricide offenders and victims are both older than CPV offenders and victims, with CPV offenders more likely to be female, more likely to be African American, and less likely to use a weapon than parricide offenders. The study calls for future research and exploration of preliminary support for a family violence escalation hypothesis.
Revisions to the sport psychology service delivery (SPSD) heuristic: explorations with experienced consultants.

Sport psychology service delivery (SPSD) heuristic (Poczwardowski, Sherman, & Henschen, 1998) included key components of applied work. Nevertheless, the complexities of sport psychology consulting need an even broader representation. In individual, semistructured interviews, 10 experienced sport psychology consultants explored the usefulness of the original heuristic and newly added elements in their professional practice. Inductive analysis (Lincoln & Guba, 1985) resulted in a total of 2409 meaning units that were grouped into 127 lower-order themes and 32 higher-order themes that were used to clarify, expand, and revise the SPSD model as interpreted by the participants. Based on the new elements (i.e., consultant-client relationship, the consultant variables, the client variables, immersion, and the goodness of fit) and two meta-themes (i.e., interrelation and person-focused values), a newly configured heuristic is proposed (SPSD-Revised). Future researchers will benefit from different research methods ...
Surrogate modeling for peak or time-dependent storm surge prediction over an extended coastal region using an existing database of synthetic storms

This paper investigates the development of a kriging surrogate model for storm surge prediction utilizing an existing database of high-fidelity, synthetic storms. This surrogate model (metamodel) provides a fast-to-compute mathematical approximation to the input/output relationship of the computationally expensive simulation model that created this database. The implementation is considered over a large coastal region composed of nearshore nodes (locations where storm surge is predicted) and further examines the ability to provide time-series forecasting. This setting creates a high-dimensional output (over a few thousand surge responses) for the surrogate model with anticipated high spatial/temporal correlation. Kriging is considered as a surrogate model, and special attention is given to the appropriate parameterization of the synthetic storms, based on the characteristics of the given database, to determine the input for the metamodel formulation. Principal component analysis (PCA) is integrated in this formulation as a dimension reduction technique to improve computational efficiency, as well as to provide accurate and continuous predictions for time-dependent outputs without the need to introduce time averaging in the time-series forecasting. This is established by leveraging the aforementioned correlation characteristics within the initial database. A range of different implementation choices is examined within the integrated kriging/PCA setting, such as the development of single or multiple metamodels for the different outputs. The metamodel accuracy for inland nodes that have remained dry in some of the storms in the initial database is also examined. The performance of the surrogate modeling approach is evaluated through a case study, utilizing a database of 446 synthetic storms for the Gulf of Mexico (Louisiana coast). The output considered includes time histories for 30 locations over a period of 45.5 h with 92 uniform time steps, as well as peak responses over a grid of 545,635 nearshore nodes. High accuracy and computational efficiency are observed for the proposed implementation, whereas including the prediction error statistics provides estimations with significant safety margins.
Rosetta: Comet-Chaser, Comet-Lander, and Comet-Hopper All In One Mission! (Presentation Recording)

Mission to Catch a Comet! Comets have inspired awe and wonder since the dawn of history. Many scientists today believe that comets crashed into Earth in its formative period spewing organic molecules that were crucial to the growth of life. Comets may have formed about the same time as the giant planets of our solar system (Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune) - about 4.6 billion years ago. Some scientists think that comets and planets were both made from the same clumps of dust and ice that spewed from our Sun’s birth; others think that these roving time capsules are even older than that, and that they may contain grains of interstellar stuff that is even older than our solar system. © (2015) COPYRIGHT Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers (SPIE). Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Debunking IP-For-Development: Africa Needs IP Space Not IP Shackles

Proponents of heightened intellectual property rights (IPRs) claim such rights are essential to foreign direct investment (FDI), technology transfer, local innovation, and economic development. They claim that a secure domestic IPR regime encourages licensing to local manufacturers resulting in technology acquisition and product diffusion. They claim that heightened IPRs incentivize local inventors and creators and spur innovation responsive to local needs. Proponents make these claims regardless of differing levels of economic and technical development and underlying human capacity in Africa.These claims are fundamentally false according to historical antecedent and the preponderance of economic evidence. Despite a new global norm of enhanced IPRs, most low- and middle-income countries in Africa have little to show in terms of increased innovation, technology diffusion, or IP-related FDI. Instead, IPRs have primarily benefited rightholders from rich countries resulting in reduced access to affordable medicines, educational resources, agricultural inputs, and green technologies. African countries are anxious to increase their industrial, entrepreneurial, and innovative/creative capacities. However, their needs are better served by a more pluralistic set of development, IP, and innovation policies. Right now, African countries need to reform the proposed pro-IP Pan-African Intellectual Property Organization, support a WTO TRIPS pharmaceutical transition period extension for least developed countries, and adopt all relevant IP flexibilities and coordinate their use.
The Closure of Systems of Orthogonal Functions

(1943). The Closure of Systems of Orthogonal Functions. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 50, No. 3, pp. 163-169.
Comparison of Nutritional and Physicochemical Quality of Rice Under Organic and Standard Production Systems

Growing interest in sustainable agriculture has prompted this study aiming to evaluate nutritional content of rice grain produced from an organic production system. Here, we grew nine quality rice cultivars under organic methods in the wet and dry seasons, and the nutritional values, grain quality, and physiological parameters were compared with respective cultivars grown under the standard cultivation method (SCM). Obtained results revealed that the yield and plant height were lower, but tillering capacity was higher, in the organic field compared with the standard one. The organic crop showed significantly lower contents of protein and phytate compared with reference values under the SCM. Antioxidative capacity and its responsible phytochemicals such as phenolics, flavonoids, and γ-oryzanol were also significantly higher under organic cultivation than under the SCM. Among physicochemical characteristics, apparent amylose content, gel consistency, and area and perimeter of grain were also higher in the o...
Regulation of serum cytokine in RAU with applying rich-Se yue-hang 1 rice as diet interfering

The paper analysised the changes of serum cytokine in RAU with Applying yue-hang1 rice as diet interfering,and studied the effect of functional rice for prevention and treatment in RAU.40 patients with RAU were selected as the experiment group1 and treated with yue -hang1 rice.35 patients with RAU as the experiment group2 were treated with normal milled rice and VitaminBco VitaminE.30 cases in normal check were control group and took normal milled. All cases were determined when the cases took rice before and after six months.The level of serium cytokines, TNF-а、IL-2、6、8 , were determined with radioimmunoassay kits.The results showed that the comparison of before and after treatment of the group1 indicated that TNF-а、IL-2 showed a significant differences (P﹤0.01). After treatment, the comparison of the Group1 with group 2 and the control group indicated that TNF -а、IL -2 showed a significant differences (P﹤0.01). The comparison of two experiment groups indicated that group1 was better than group2 in the hand of improving serum cytokine.Rich-Se yue-hang 1 rice as main diet could effectively regulate and recover unbalance of serum cytokine TNF-а、IL-2 and was effective for prevention and treatment in patients with RAU.
Using Spatial Autocorrelation Analysis to Guide Mixed Methods Survey Sample Design Decisions

Mixed methods researchers share a commitment to knowing their sampling frames and minimizing discovery failure, especially when using surveys. Notwithstanding advances in sampling strategies, the geographic clustering of perceptions has not been fully considered for its relevance to sampling. This article examines the value of spatial autocorrelation analysis to guide sampling decisions. Spatial autocorrelation refers to the clustering of (dis)similar phenomena and signals the likely existence of perception subgroups. Through a spatial autocorrelation analysis of Dallas, Texas, the authors identify sampling frames for collecting data about perceptions of West Nile Virus eradication measures. They furnish some empirical confirmation of the geographic clustering of perceptions and argue for designs that identify perception clustering, which can affect qualitative sampling as well as advance the integration of quantitative and qualitative research.
Plautus' Captivi and the Ideology of the Ancient City-State

Plautus' Captivi is a play of discovery rather than of action. Its plot is not so much a story as a situation, which is misperceived at first but gradually revealed to the characters in the drama. The chief complications of the plot are all given as part of the initial conditions, which are described in the prologue as having occurred prior to the time of the dramatic action. There had been a war between two Greek communities, Elis and Aetolia. The event itself is strictly and explicitly banished from the stage as befitting tragedy, not comedy (58-62). The prisoners taken on either side in the war were sold as slaves, as commonly happened. Among these was a young Aetolian named Philopolemus, son of Hegio, who fell into the possession of a doctor in Elis called Menarchus. As a result, Hegio, though a man of excellent character, has begun to purchase slaves on the slave market, not with an eye to profit, however, but in order to acquire an Elean captive whom he may exchange for his own son. On the day before the date on which the play is imagined to take place, Hegio has succeeded in buying, at considerable cost, a distinguished citizen of Elis named Philocrates, along with his personal slave, Tyndarus.
The Role of MRgLITT in Overcoming the Challenges in Managing Infield Recurrence After Radiation for Brain Metastasis.

Radiation necrosis and tumor recurrence are common sequelae after radiation therapy for brain metastasis. The differentiation of radiation necrosis and recurrent brain metastases continues to remain a difficult task despite a number of diagnostic methods. Techniques including magnetic resonance imaging, diffusion-weighted imaging, nuclear studies, and the gold standard of biopsy have all been studied for their effectiveness in accurately diagnosing the postradiation condition. Various specific treatment options of the distinct pathologies are available with the general theory that recurrences require more immediate treatment whereas radiation necrosis can be observed until symptomatic before intervention. This further emphasizes the necessity to accurately diagnose the condition to start appropriate and effective treatment. Despite both pathologies being pathophysiologically distinct, controversies exist as to whether there should be a distinction made at all or if the two can be perceived as a single condition if treatment and presentation are similar enough. Furthermore, a single treatment option such as magnetic resonance-guided, laser-induced thermal therapy (MRgLITT) can be used, potentially eliminating the need to differentiate the 2 entities because it successfully treats both conditions while being minimally invasive. Abbreviations ADC, apparent diffusion coefficientDWI, diffusion-weighted imagingFDG, fluorodeoxyglucoseMET, 11C-labeled methionineMRgLITT, magnetic resonance-guided, laser-induced thermal therapyMRS, magnetic resonance spectroscopySPECT, single-photon emission computed tomographyT/N, ratio of tumor tissue to normal tissueVEGF, vascular endothelial growth factor.
Transformation of temporal sequences in the zebra finch auditory system

This study examines how temporally patterned stimuli are transformed as they propagate from primary to secondary zones in the thalamorecipient auditory pallium in zebra finches. Using a new class of synthetic click stimuli, we find a robust mapping from temporal sequences in the primary zone to distinct population vectors in secondary auditory areas. We tested whether songbirds could discriminate synthetic click sequences in an operant setup and found that a robust behavioral discrimination is present for click sequences composed of intervals ranging from 11 ms to 40 ms, but breaks down for stimuli composed of longer inter-click intervals. This work suggests that the analog of the songbird auditory cortex transforms temporal patterns to sequence-selective population responses or ‘spatial codes', and that these distinct population responses contribute to behavioral discrimination of temporally complex sounds.
Parent-Reported Improvements in Family Functioning in a Randomized Controlled Trial of Lisdexamfetamine for Treatment of Parental Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Abstract Objective: This study examines the effects of parental stimulant medication treatment on parent ratings of parent–child functioning. Ratings of parent–child functioning in the home setting and immediately following a laboratory-based parent–child interaction were collected. Method: Participants were 20 parents who along with their children (ages 5–12 years) were diagnosed with Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition (DSM-IV) attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Parents completed an open-label titration to determine their optimal dose of lisdexamfetamine (30, 50, or 70 mg/day) and then completed a month-long double-blind randomized pharmacological intervention for parental ADHD. Effects of parental stimulant medication administered for an extended duration were assessed by parent ratings of parent–child functioning in the home setting and immediately following a laboratory parent–child interaction task conducted at an academic mental health center. Data were ...