cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Semistability of switched linear systems with applications to distributed sensor networks: A generating function approach

This paper investigates semistability of discrete-time, switched linear systems under both deterministic and random switching policies. The notion of semistability pertains to a continuum of initial state dependent equilibria and has found wide applications such as consensus problems in multi-agent systems. The main contributions of the paper are three folds. First, we show that exponential semistability on a common equilibrium space is equivalent to output exponential stability of the switched linear system with a suitably defined output, under both arbitrary and random switchings. Further, their convergence rates are shown to be identical. Second, it is shown that output stability and its convergence rates can be efficiently characterized via the recently developed generating function approach. Third, we consider algorithm development and analysis of resource allocation schemes for topologically changing, distributed sensor networks. We formulate an iteration process of such an algorithm as a switched linear system, and characterize its convergence using the obtained semistability results.
A fatal myeloproliferative syndrome in a family with thrombocytopenia and platelet dysfunction

Three siblings with a lifelong history of a bleeding disorder and thrombocytopenia died from a myeloproliferative disease. In 2, the terminal event resembled juvenile chronic myelogenous leukemia, and in the third, the diagnosis was acute monocytic leukemia. A family study revealed that the mother and 5 other siblings had a variety of hematologic abnormalities. These included chronic thrombocytopenia, abnormal platelet function, elevated concentrations of HgbF or serum vitamin B12, and low leukocyte alkaline phosphatase (LAP) scores either singly or in combination. At the time of study, none had evidence of malignancy. Members of this family have a myeloproliferative disorder that has the potential for terminating in nonlymphocytic leukemia, a combination of events which appears not to have been reported previously.
Regulation of cadherin stability and turnover by p120ctn: implications in disease and cancer

The strength of cadherin based cell-cell adhesion is modulated by signaling events that control the amount of cadherin present at the cell surface, and the clustering of cadherins into strong adhesive junctions. p120ctn has been indirectly implicated in clustering for some time, but it now appears that its main function is to regulate cadherin turnover. Forced p120 downregulation (e.g., by siRNA targeting) results in a striking dose-dependant loss of endogenous cadherins, indicating that p120 is essential for cadherin stability. These data challenge some important paradigms and suggest novel interpretations of existing data. For example, most of the effects of DN-cadherin expression can be accounted for by sequestration of p120. Thus, DN-cadherins phenocopy p120-downregulation, and a significant literature exists already that suggests consequences of p120-deficiency in disease and cancer. Moreover, p120 downregulation occurs frequently in essentially all of the major carcinoma types. Thus, it is possible that the classic observation of E-cadherin-deficiency in metastatic cancer may in some cases be due to p120 downregulation rather than better understood mechanisms acting at the level of E-cadherin transcription.
Do Library Fines Work?: Analysis of the Effectiveness of Fines on Patron's Return Behavior at Two Mid-sized Academic Libraries ☆

Abstract Data on library fines imposed at Eastern Illinois University and the University of Hawaii at Manoa was extracted and compared to determine whether fines had an impact on the patron's return behavior. The results indicated that fines as well as patron group status (undergraduate, graduate, faculty) have an impact on the patron's return behavior.
Inferences on flow at the base of Earth's mantle based on seismic anisotropy.

We applied global waveform tomography to model radial anisotropy in the whole mantle. We found that in the last few hundred kilometers near the core-mantle boundary, horizontally polarized S -wave velocities ( VSH ) are, on average, faster (by ∼1%) than vertically polarized S -wave velocities ( VSV ), suggesting a large-scale predominance of horizontal shear. This confirms that the D ″ region at the base of the mantle is also a mechanical boundary layer for mantle convection. A notable exception to this average signature can be found at the base of the two broad low-velocity regions under the Pacific Ocean and under Africa, often referred to as “superplumes,” where the anisotropic pattern indicates the onset of vertical flow.
AAEM Minimonograph 32: The electrodiagnostic examination in patients with radiculopathies

The anatomy and pathophysiology of radiculopathies are reviewed, and the electrodiagnostic approaches used in evaluating patients with suspected root lesions are discussed. Such electrophysiologic procedures include motor and sensory nerve conduction studies, late-response studies, somatosensory and motor evoked potentials, nerve root stimulation, and needle electromyography. The value and limitations of these different procedures are considered. At the present time, needle electromyography is the single most useful approach. The findings in patients with radiculopathies at different levels are summarized.
Ductile-reinforcement toughening in γ-TiAl intermetallic-matrix composites: Effects on fracture toughness and fatigue-crack propagation resistance

Abstract The influence of the type, volume fraction, thickness and orientation of ductile phase reinforcements on the room temperature fatigue and fracture resistance of γ-TiAl intermetallic alloys is investigated. Large improvements in toughness compared to monolithic γ-TiAl are observed in both the TiNb- and Nb-reinforced composites under monotonic loading. Toughness increases with increasing ductile phase content, reinforcement thickness and strength; orientation effects are minimal. Crack-growth behavior is characterized by steep resistance curves primarily due to crack trapping/renucleation and extensive crack bridging by the ductile-phase particles. In contrast, under cyclic loading the influence of ductile phases on fatigue resistance is strongly dependent upon reinforcement orientation. Compared to monolithic γ-TiAl, improvements in fatigue-crack growth resistance are observed in TiNb-reinforced composites only in the face (C-L) orientation; crack-growth rates for the edge (C-R) orientation are actually faster in the composite. In comparison, Nb-particle reinforcements offer less toughening under monotonic loading but enhance the fatigue properties compared to TiNb reinforcements under cyclic loading.
Application of Diffuse Mismatch Theory to the Prediction of Thermal Boundary Resistance in Thin-Film High-Tc Superconductors

Thermal boundary resistance (R b ) plays an important role in the design and performance of thin-film high-temperature superconducting devices, such as infrared detectors and optical switches, which rely upon the temperature rise of the film as the basis for their operation. Although there is general agreement on the magnitude of R b from experimental data, there is at present no generally accepted theory. capable of predicting R b for these films, particularly at the intermediate cryogenic temperatures where they are likely to be used. Here, the Diffuse Mismatch Model (DMM), which considers that all phonons reaching the interface between the film and substrate scatter diffusely, is applied to the calculation of R b . The results indicate that when employing the Debye model for the phonon density of states, the DMM yields results slightly more in agreement with data than the Acoustic Mismatch Model (AMM). Considering the measured phonon density of states, however, greatly increases R b over that calculated assuming the Debye model, thus bringing the DMM results in relatively good agreement with the experimental data.
A genetic approach to estimating natal dispersal distances and self‐recruitment in resident rainforest birds

Natal dispersal is a fundamental component of the ecology and evolutionary history of birds, yet is often prohibitively difficult to study. We characterized natal dispersal for the first time in a bird using molecular genetic parentage analyses in a tropical rainforest understory species, the chestnut-backed antbird (Thamnophilidae: Myrmeciza exsul). Median natal dispersal distance was ∼800 m (mean = 931 ± 84 (SE) m, n = 48), with ∼90% of all distances < 1500 m. We found no evidence of sex-biased dispersal. An index of self-recruitment (i.e. individuals establishing a territory within the population of origin) was higher in sites largely or entirely surrounded by non-forest, suggesting birds are reluctant to disperse out of preferred forest habitat. Via simulations, we confirmed that the genetic data had sufficient resolution to correctly identify parent-offspring dyads, but lacked resolution to identify other relationships (full-sib and half-sib) with confidence. Chestnut-backed antbirds have measurable self-recruitment rates caused by short natal dispersal distances, and self-recruitment may be amplified by reluctance to disperse out of sites bordered by non-forest. Some tropical forest understory birds have naturally short dispersal distances, and our results have implications for understanding how species will be affected by fragmented landscapes and for the design of reserves.
Chinese authority-directed orientation and Japanese peer-group orientation: Questioning the notion of collectivism.

This article describes the differing socialities of 2 of the cultural groups of East Asia, the Chinese and the Japanese, both of which have been characterized as “collectivistic” or “interdependent...
Digital games and learning: a study of preservice teachers' perceptions

This study aims to enhance understanding of enactivism, an emergent theory, through the exploration of preservice teachers' thinking about digital games. Focusing on two important enactivist concepts, affordances and constraints, this study is guided by the following research questions: What are preservice teachers' perceived affordances of digital games, teacher designed digital games, and student designed digital games in classrooms? What constraints are perceived by preservice teachers for adapting digital game design in schools? This research adopts a mixed method approach [Creswell, 1998. Qualitative inquiry and research design; Choosing among five traditions. London: Sage] to investigate preservice teachers' perceptions. A convenient sampling method is used with 73 preservice teachers. Data collected include open-ended surveys and teacher discussion notes. Results show that a vast majority of preservice teachers have perceived that game design and building, either by teachers themselves or by learne...
Measurement of the spectrum of resonance fluorescence from a two-level atom in an intense monochromatic field

We have made measurements of the spectrum of resonance fluorescence emitted by sodium atoms in an intense, uniform, monochromatic field. The transition used in the experiment was between the $3^{2}S_{\frac{1}{2}}$ ($F=2$, ${m}_{F}=2$) ground state and the $3^{2}P_{\frac{3}{2}}$ (${F}^{\ensuremath{'}}=3$, ${m}_{F}^{\ensuremath{'}}=3$) excited state. A separate light beam, circularly polarized and resonant with this transition, was used to prepare the sodium atoms in the $F=2$, ${m}_{F}=2$ magnetic sublevel. This pumping scheme was used to obtain the spectrum for both on- and off-resonance excitations. The measurements are in good agreement with Mollow's calculation. In addition, we describe conditions under which we observed asymmetric spectra similar to those of earlier experiments.
Mitochondrial dysfunction and type 2 diabetes.

Maintenance of normal blood glucose levels depends on a complex interplay between the insulin responsiveness of skeletal muscle and liver and glucose-stimulated insulin secretion by pancreatic β cells. Defects in the former are responsible for insulin resistance, and defects in the latter are responsible for progression to hyperglycemia. Emerging evidence supports the potentially unifying hypothesis that both of these prominent features of type 2 diabetes are caused by mitochondrial dysfunction.
A multifactorial analysis of umbilical cord blood, adult bone marrow and mobilized peripheral blood progenitors using the improved ML-IC assay.

Objective Assays that can evaluate the potential of individual human hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) are still lacking. We previously developed the myeloid-lymphoid initiating cell (ML-IC) assay that enumerates single CD34 + cells that generate long-term culture-initiating (LTC-IC) and NK-initiating (NK-IC) daughter cells, or single primitive progenitors with multilineage potential. When transplanted in vivo, umbilical cord blood (UCB) has greater repopulating ability than bone marrow (BM) or mobilized peripheral blood (MPB). Whether the greater in vivo repopulating ability is due to an increased frequency of HSC in UCB and generative potential of UCB, BM, and MPB CD34 + cells is not known. Materials and methods Single UCB, BM, and MPB CD34 + CD38 − Lin − or CD34 + CD38 − CD33 − cells were plated in ML-IC assay and after 2 to 4 weeks, progeny was evaluated for frequency and generative potential of ML-IC. We also tested whether the ML-IC assay could be used to define if increased numbers of primitive progenitors generated by different cytokines in expansion cultures are mediated by recruitment of quiescent cells or by increasing their generative potential. Results The frequency of ML-IC in BM, UCB, and MPB was similar, but the generative potential of UCB ML-IC was significantly higher. Substitution of Flt3-L, SCF, and IL-7 with Flt3-L and thrombopoietin significantly increased the generative potential of ML-IC, whereas Flt3-L, SCF, and hyper-IL-6 increased both ML-IC frequency and generative potential. Conclusion The ML-IC assay demonstrates that the greater repopulating ability of UCB is due to the higher generative ability of HSC in UCB. Furthermore, the ML-IC assay can discriminate between cytokine-mediated expansion of hematopoietic progenitors by enhancing generation of immature daughter cells or by recruiting otherwise quiescent cells.
The Ingelfinger rule, embargoes, and journal peer review--part 2

Abstract Peer review is one of the main reasons put forward in support of the Ingelfinger rule. As the second of the two-part article The Ingelfinger rule, embargoes, and journal peer review shows, however, the economic interests in controlling information may be equally important. Not least is the rule's contribution to journal profits by raising circulation and advertising revenues. An additional effect has been to frighten authors into silence, sometimes delaying the release of important findings that bear on the public health. Moreover, the resulting poor cooperation between researchers and journalists risks unintentional errors in reporting. Unless there is evidence that the rule improves and assures the quality of what journals publish, the 27-year-old Ingelfinger rule should be dropped.
Determination of uniaxial residual stress and mechanical properties by instrumented indentation

Abstract We propose an improved technique to determine the uniaxial residual stress, elastic modulus, and yield stress of a linear elastic, perfectly plastic bulk material from the force–displacement curve of one conical indentation test. Explicit relationships between the indentation loading–unloading parameters, material properties, and residual stress are established through extensive finite element analyses. Good agreement is found between the input material parameters used in numerical indentation tests and the properties identified from the reverse analysis, with an error of less than 10% in most cases. The technique is applied to a nanoindentation experiment on the cross-section of a thermal barrier system, to measure the elastic–plastic behavior and the residual stress in the bond coat. Likewise, the improved method may be used to measure effectively the material properties and uniaxial residual stress of a multilayer system.
Viscous factors in peripheral tissue perfusion

Abstract To ascertain the relative importance of the factors that influence blood viscosity (VIS), we measured hematocrit (HCT), filterability index, fibrinogen level (FIB), and Ektacytometer indices at osmolarities of both 290 (EI 290) and 200 (EI 200) in 21 diabetic patients with peripheral vascular disease (DPVDs) and 11 healthy volunteers (HVs). Stepwise multiple regression analyses generated a formula based on three of the independent variables (FIB, HCT, EI 200) that accurately predicted VIS (r = 0.79, p
Behavior and beliefs during the recent volcanic eruption at Kapoho, Hawaii.

The recent volcanic eruption at Kapoho, Hawaii, resulted in rituals and offerings to the Hawaiian Volcano Goddess, Pele.
Current status of herpes simplex labialis

Abstract Considerable progress has been made in our understanding of the pathogenesis of herpes labialis, including the molecular biology of viral latency in neural ganglia and the evolution of the infection in the skin. Treatment of established disease remains relatively resistant to chemotherapy with antiviral compounds, but osme progress has been made and further clinical research is ongoing. Prophylactic chemotherapy with ACV capsules has proved to be a highly effective means of managing selected patients at high risk because of exposure to sunlight, or persons susceptible to herpes-associated erythema multiforme.
Energy Payback Optimization of Thermoelectric Power Generator Systems

An analytic model for optimizing thermoelectric power generation system is developed and utilized for parametric studies. This model takes into account the external thermal resistances with hot and cold reservoirs. In addition, the spreading thermal resistance in the module substrates is considered to find the impact of designing small fraction of thermo elements per unit area. Previous studies are expanded by a full optimization of the electrical and thermal circuits. The optimum condition satisfies both electrical load resistance match with the internal resistance and the thermal resistance match with the heat source and the heat sink. Thermoelectric element aspect ratio and fill factor are found to be key parameters to optimize. The optimum leg length and the maximum output power are determined by a simple formula. The output power density per mass of the thermoelectric material has a peak when thermo elements cover a fractional area of ∼1%. The role of the substrate heat spreading for thermoelectric power generation is equally significant as thermoelement. For a given heat source, the co-optimization of the heat sink and the thermoelectric module should be performed. Active cooling and the design of the heat sink are customized to find the energy payback for the power generation system. The model includes both the air cooled heat sinks and the water cooled micro channels. We find that one can reduce the mass of thermoelement to around 3∼10% of that in commercial modules for the same output power, as long as the module and elements are designed properly. Also one notes that higher heat flux sources have significantly larger energy payback and reduced cost per output power.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
The Carnegie Poll on Values in American Foreign Policy

In a brief summary of a poll conducted by the Carnegie Council, Myers outlines the American public's views on issues ranging from foreign policy/peace issues to economic security, defense, and human rights. The underlying perception of the United States as the “moral nation” raises a fundamental question: How deeply imbedded is the distinction between words and deeds in American foreign policy? Some results of the survey defied explanation. “Why are Americans so avid about human rights abroad, yet so reluctant to commit foreign aid, and so indignant about the U.S. dollars that are spent on NATO and Japanese security? Logic and sentiment remain interwoven,” concludes Myers.
Microchemical systems for continuous-flow synthesis

Microchemical systems have evolved rapidly over the last decade with extensive chemistry applications. Such systems enable discovery and development of synthetic routes while simultaneously providing increased understanding of underlying pathways and kinetics. We review basic trends and aspects of microsystems as they relate to continuous-flow microchemical synthesis. Key literature reviews are summarized and principles governing different microchemical operations discussed. Current trends and limitations of microfabrication, micromixing, chemical synthesis in microreactors, continuous-flow separations, multi-step synthesis, and integration of analytics are delineated. We conclude by summarizing the major challenges and outlook related to these topics.
CONCENTRATION-TIME PRODUCT (CT) AS AN EXPRESSION OF DOSE IN SUBLETHAL EXPOSURES TO PHOSGENE.

Abstract Rats were exposed to phosgene at concentrations of 0.5 to 4.0 ppm for time periods ranging from five minutes to eight hours, using various combinations of concentrations and time to give a range of equal CT products. Response was expressed in terms of impaired pulmonary gas exchange capacity as measured by the decreased rates of uptake of carbon monoxide and ether. Beginning changes in pulmonary performance were noted following exposures to CT products as low as 30 ppm-min. Following doses greater than 180 ppm-min., death became increasingly likely, with associated reduction in CO uptake to less than 50% of normal. There was no indication that concentration contributed more than exposure time to the magnitude of change in pulmonary performance over the range of CT values studied.
Precoding for Non-Linear Interference Limited WDM Systems

Multichannel signal design for cross-talk limited fiber optic systems is considered. We focus on mitigating cross-talk in the form of cross-phase modulation and four-wave-mixing phenomena resulting from fiber non-linearities. Heuristic signal designs are presented for systems dominated either by XPM effects or by FWM effects. The analysis indicates that the designs presented result in significant energy gains over traditional on-off keying based single user modulation schemes.
The theory of bubble migration applied to irradiated materials

Abstract Methods of crystal growth are reviewed and then applied to the problem of bubbles migrating in solids. The distribution of driving force between the reversible and irreversible processes occurring at the bubble surface is summarized in a coupling equation which illustrates the contributions made by surface curvature, atomic attachment kinetics, impurities contained within the bubble, and vapor diffusion. The shape assumed by a migrating bubble is reviewed, and the special case in which kinetic effects dominate is examined in detail. Lenticular shaped bubbles are shown to be a form of cellular growth, resulting from the accumulation of impurities within the bubble. The trails of small bubbles behind such voids reveal the entrainment of impurities as in the grooves of a cellular interface. A procedure is briefly described for evaluating bubble shapes and temperature profiles in the matrix when all features such as capillarity, diffusion and kinetics are considered.
Angular Distribution of Zeros of the Partial Sums of ez via the Solution of Inverse Logarithmic Potential Problem

We continue the work of Szegő [18] on describing the angular distribution of the zeros of the normalized partial sum sn(nz) of ez, where \(s _{n}(z):={\sum _{k=0} ^{n}}z ^k/k!\). We imbed this problem in some inverse problem of potential theory and prove a so-called Erdős-Turan-type theorem, which is of interest in itself.
Life-History Studies of the Squash Beetle in Alabama

The squash beetle (Epilachna borealis Fab.) is one of two species of Coccinellidae known to occur in the United States which are not carnivorous but phytophagous in nature. The squash beetle feeds upon the leaves of cucurbitaceous plants. The other species, the Mexican bean beetle (Epilachna varivestis Muls.) , a close relative of the squash beetle, is a serious bean pest. All our other lady beetles are carnivorous, and beneficial because they feed on injurious insects, such as aphids and scale insects.
Hepatitis B e Antigen--the dangerous endgame of hepatitis B.

The external pernicious influences of wind and dampness cause liver Qi to stagnate, and excess damp heat in liver and weakness of spleen Qi result. — From the teachings of traditional Chinese medic...
Perspectives of Russian educators on communication and communication education in Russian universities: a survey analysis

This paper offers an analysis of a survey, conducted among faculty of regional Russian universities on the topic of how communication, communication studies, and education are viewed today within Russian academia. With the changes taking place within Russian education, the field is still somewhat “undefined–unidentified”. While continuing discussions about communication and communication training are taking place, there are few empirical studies in or outside of Russia looking at the development of the discipline and communication education. With this in mind, the author conducted a study to explore two questions: (1) how Russian educators view communication and communication studies; and (2) how they view the need for communication education at the university level. This article primarily discusses the first question, with a subsequent article planned to address the second. A discussion of the results and the implications for research is given from a sociocultural perspective.
Optimization-based scheduling for the single-satellite, multi-ground station communication problem

In this paper, we develop models and algorithms for solving the single-satellite, multi-ground station communication scheduling problem, with the objective of maximizing the total amount of data downloaded from space. With the growing number of small satellites gathering large quantities of data in space and seeking to download this data to a capacity-constrained ground station network, effective scheduling is critical to mission success. Our goal in this research is to develop tools that yield high-quality schedules in a timely fashion while accurately modeling on-board satellite energy and data dynamics as well as realistic constraints of the space environment and ground network. We formulate an under-constrained mixed integer program (MIP) to model the problem. We then introduce an iterative algorithm that progressively tightens the constraints of this model to obtain a feasible and thus optimal solution. Computational experiments are conducted on diverse real-world data sets to demonstrate tractability and solution quality. Additional experiments on a broad test bed of contrived problem instances are used to test the boundaries of tractability for applying this approach to other problem domains. Our computational results suggest that our approach is viable for real-world instances, as well as providing a strong foundation for more complex problems with multiple satellites and stochastic conditions.
Neutrino oscillation experiments

Abstract We review the status and results of neutrino oscillation experiments with emphasis on non-accelerator experiments. To date there is no confirmed evidence for neutrino oscillations, with limits for the mass parameter Δm 2 of 2 × 10 −2 eV 2 for full mixing, and limits for mixing angles sin 2 2 θ of about 10 −3 for large Δm 2 .
Cadmium Exposures in Fathead Minnows: Are There Sex-Specific Differences in Mortality, Reproductive Success, and Cd Accumulation?

The primary goal of this experiment was to determine whether cadmium (Cd) exposure has sex-specific effects on the reproductive success of fathead minnows as measured by time to first spawn, spawning frequency, clutch size, fecundity, fertilization success, hatching success, and offspring mortality to 2 d post hatch. Prior to breeding, minnows were either exposed to 50 μg/L Cd or sham exposed for 21 d. After exposures, minnows were paired (male × female) into one of four breeding groups—control × control (C × C), control × exposed (C × E), exposed × control (E × C) or exposed × exposed (E × E). Pairs of minnows were subjected to a 21-d breeding study during which the reproductive parameters mentioned above were measured. During the breeding study, minnows in the E × E pairs had significantly higher mortality than minnows in the C × C pairs; however, the mortality of minnows in the C × E and E × C did not differ from that of C × C pairs. Presumably, behavioral alterations in both males and females exposed to Cd accounted for the increased mortality in the E × E group. The results of the breeding study did not reveal any significant differences among any of the reproductive parameters measured with the exception of offspring mortality. Offspring from C × E pairs did not differ from offspring from C × C pairs with regard to mortality; however, offspring from pairs containing exposed males (E × C and E × E) had significantly higher mortality than offspring from C × C pairs suggesting that paternal exposure to Cd leads to an increase in offspring mortality.
Assessing medical students’ self-regulation as aptitude in computer-based learning

We developed a Self-Regulation Measure for Computer-based learning (SRMC) tailored toward medical students, by modifying Zimmerman’s Self-Regulated Learning Interview Schedule (SRLIS) for K-12 learners. The SRMC’s reliability and validity were examined in 2 studies. In Study 1, 109 first-year medical students were asked to complete the SRMC. Bivariate correlation analysis results indicated that the SRMC scores had a moderate degree of correlation with student achievement in a teacher-developed test. In Study 2, 58 third-year clerkship students completed the SRMC. Regression analysis results indicated that the frequency of medical students’ usage of self-regulation strategies was associated with their general clinical knowledge measured by a nationally standardized licensing exam. These two studies provided evidence for the reliability and concurrent validity of the SRMC to assess medical students’ self-regulation as aptitude. Future work should provide evidence to guide and improve instructional design as well as inform educational policy.
DIRECT RADIOIMMUNOASSAY OF PROGESTERONE IN SALIVA

We have developed a simple, direct radioimmunoassay for progesterone in saliva. The correlation coefficient (r) between the direct assay and an extraction procedure was 0.92 (n = 65, P < 0.001), and the correlation between concurrent serum and salivary progesterone concentrations in the luteal phases of menstrual cycles of 48 women was 0.75 (P < 0.001). Whereas certain polystyrene and polyethylene vials and tubes were found to bind and remove up to 87% of the progesterone from saliva, other plastic and glass surfaces were satisfactory for the procedure. Intraassay and interassay CVs from values greater than 300 pmol/L were 12.0 and 12.4%, respectively. The assay sensitivity was 48 pmol/L. Collection of saliva is a more convenient and less invasive technique for frequent sample collection than phlebotomy, and is useful for monitoring ovulation and assessment of luteal function in women clinically.
Benthic foraminifera across the Cretaceous–Tertiary (K–T) boundary: a review

Abstract The response of the Earth’s biota to global change is of fundamental interest to paleontologists, but patterns of change in paleontologic data are also of interest to a wider spectrum of Earth scientists in that those patterns are of great significance in constraining hypotheses that attempt to explain physical changes in the Earth’s environment. The Cretaceous–Tertiary (K–T) boundary is a case in point. Some paleontologists have criticized the bolide impact hypothesis, not because they deny the impact but because the proposed effects of that impact do not always conform to the available paleontological data. Benthic foraminifera are of particular interest in this context because it has been suggested for over 20 years that shallow-water benthic foraminifera were affected more severely than deep-water benthic foraminifera by events at the K–T boundary. This observation adds to the fact of planktonic foraminiferal extinction and indicates that K–T boundary environmental effects were largely restricted to shallow waters. In this paper I review all published works on smaller benthic foraminifera at the K–T boundary and conclude the following. (1) Shallow-water benthic foraminifera were not more severely affected than deeper dwelling species. True extinction, as opposed to local extinction and/or mass mortality, is generally quite low no matter what the water depth. (2) The data are not sufficient in quality, quantity and geographic range to conclude that there is a latitudinal pattern of extinction. (3) In general, biotic changes (such as they are) begin before the boundary in shallow and intermediate depth waters and at the boundary in deep water. Disagreements about the placement of the boundary and the presence, absence and duration of hiatuses hinder more precise conclusions. (4) There appears to be preferential survivorship of epifaunal species into the early Danian with a short interval dominated by infaunal taxa in the earliest Danian. This pattern can best be explained by short-lived input of increased amounts of organic matter at the boundary followed by a sudden collapse of primary productivity and, hence, major reduction or cessation of organic flux to the seafloor. In summary, based on the current dataset, smaller benthic foraminifera, no matter whether they lived in shallow or deep waters, high or low latitudes, or infaunal or epifaunal microhabitats, survived the environmental events across the K–T boundary quite well. Mass extinction does not characterize this group of organisms at this time.
Toward modeling and classification of naturalistic driving

Intelligent systems in automobiles need to be aware of the driving and driver context Available sensor data streams have to be modeled and monitored in order to do so. We describe a machine learning approach to accomplish this through collecting a large database of naturalistic driving data in a driving simulator. Preliminary experiments with a smaller dataset indicate successful modeling of naturalistic driving with hierarchical sequential models such as hidden Markov models.
Genomic Instability and Enhanced Radiosensitivity in Hsp70.1- and Hsp70.3-Deficient Mice

Heat shock proteins (HSPs) are highly conserved among all organisms from prokaryotes to eukaryotes. In mice, the HSP genes Hsp70.1 and Hsp70.3 are induced by both endogenous and exogenous stressors, such as heat and toxicants. In order to determine whether such proteins specifically influence genomic instability, mice deficient for Hsp70.1 and Hsp70.3 (Hsp70.1/3−/− mice) were generated by gene targeting. Mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) prepared from Hsp70.1/3−/− mice did not synthesize Hsp70.1 or Hsp70.3 after heat-induced stress. While the Hsp70.1/3−/− mutant mice were fertile, their cells displayed genomic instability that was enhanced by heat treatment. Cells from Hsp70.1/3−/− mice also display a higher frequency of chromosome end-to-end associations than do control Hsp70.1/3+/+ cells. To determine whether observed genomic instability was related to defective chromosome repair, Hsp70.1/3−/− and Hsp70.1/3+/+ fibroblasts were treated with ionizing radiation (IR) alone or heat and IR. Exposure to IR led to more residual chromosome aberrations, radioresistant DNA synthesis (a hallmark of genomic instability), increased cell killing, and enhanced IR-induced oncogenic transformation in Hsp70.1/3−/− cells. Heat treatment prior to IR exposure enhanced cell killing, S-phase-specific chromosome damage, and the frequency of transformants in Hsp70.1/3−/− cells in comparison to Hsp70.1/3+/+ cells. Both in vivo and in vitro studies demonstrate for the first time that Hsp70.1 and Hsp70.3 have an essential role in maintaining genomic stability under stress conditions.
Buckling-Based Strong Dry Adhesives Via Interlocking

High-aspect-ratio shape-memory polymer (SMP) pillar arrays are investigated as a new type of dry adhesive based on buckling and interlocking mechanism. When two identical SMP pillar arrays are engaged at 80 °C, above the glass transition temperature at a preload larger than the critical buckling threshold, the pillars are deformed and become interweaved and/or indented with each other. After cooling to room temperature, strong pull-off forces are observed in the normal and shear directions, both of which are much larger than those from pillar-to-flat surface and flat-to-flat surface contact. From finite element anaylsis (FEA) and comparison of measured and calculated adhesion values using different contact mechanics models, it is shown that interweaved pillars are the main source that contributes to the pillar-to-pillar adhesion and the indented pillars set the lower limit, whereas the probability of interdigitation is very low. Further, it is found that interweaved pillars are primarily responsible for the decreased adhesion strength and increased anisotropy when the pillar spacing became larger. Finally, it is shown that the bonded pillars can be easily separated after reheating to 80 °C due to significant drop of modulus of SMPs.
A Professional’s Guide to the American Psychological Association

On July 8, 1892, G. Stanley Hall convened a meeting of eighteen psychologists who met at Clark University in Worcester, Massachusetts, to share knowledge and to form a national organization to promote and support the science of psychology. The first annual meeting of the new organization took place on December 17, 1892. Twenty-six charter members and five newly elected ones provided the human foundation of the American Psychological Association (APA).
Elevated Toxoplasma IgG antibody in patients tested for infectious mononucleosis in an urban emergency department

There are many infectious causes of fatigue, sore throat, and fever, including mononucleosis and toxoplasmosis. Toxoplasma antibody testing is rarely performed in most emergency departments; as a result, toxoplasmosis is diagnosed infrequently. We obtained Toxoplasma IgG IFA titers on ED patients who had mononucleosis testing performed to determine the frequency of toxoplasmosis in this population. Two hundred sixty patients were included in our study. Eleven (4.2%) had a positive mononucleosis test, and 14 (5.4%) had a positive Toxoplasma titer. In the detection of toxoplasmosis, Toxoplasma IgG titers of 1:1,024 or greater have been shown to be a sensitive means of detecting infection in the first six months. Further testing with IgM titers is needed to establish a positive diagnosis when necessary. We found more patients with elevated Toxoplasma IgG titers than with positive heterophil antibody titers in an ED population tested for mononucleosis over a two-year period. We conclude that toxoplasmosis may be as common as mononucleosis in our ED and that clinicians should consider this pathogen when working up patients with appropriate symptoms.
SWIFT detection of SPIO-labeled stem cells grafted in the myocardium.

We report initial results from studies using SWeep Imaging with Fourier Transformation (SWIFT) to detect superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) particle-labeled stem cells in the rat heart. In experiments performed on phantoms containing titanium balls or SPIO-labeled cells, frequencyshifted signals surrounding the paramagnetic objects produced a pile-up artifact in SWIFT images, while total signal intensity was retained to a much greater extent on SWIFT images as compared to gradient echo images. SWIFT images of excised and in vivo hearts showed (a) reduced blooming artifact as compared with gradient echo images, which helped reduce ambiguity in the detection of SPIO labeled cells, (b) enhancement of off-resonance signals relative to the background in the imaginary component of images, and (c) detailed myocardial anatomy in magnitude images which provided anatomical reference. These features suggest SWIFT can facilitate the detection of SPIO-labeled cells in the cardiovascular system.
The Behaviour of a Compressible Turbulent Boundary Layer Under Incipient Separation Conditions

This paper presents an experimental study of a turbulent boundary-layer/shock-wave interaction. The interaction was generated by a two-dimensional compression corner, and the flow was on the point of separating. Measurements were made using both normal and inclined hot wires, and the data include measurements of the longitudinal mass-flow fluctuation intensity and the mass-weighted Reynolds shear stress.
Optical trapping and Raman spectroscopy of single living cells and single organelles

We demonstrate that single living cells and single organelles within a cell can be manipulated with a near-infrared beam and Raman spectra of the trapped particles can be collected to offer biochemical composition for rapid identification of microorganisms and real-time analysis.
Configurable offers and winner determination in multi-attribute auctions

Abstract The theory of procurement auctions traditionally assumes that the offered quantity and quality is fixed prior to source selection. Multi-attribute reverse auctions allow negotiation over price and qualitative attributes such as color, weight, or delivery time. They promise higher market efficiency through a more effective information exchange of buyer’s preferences and supplier’s offerings. This paper focuses on a number of winner determination problems in multi-attribute auctions. Previous work assumes that multi-attribute bids are described as attribute value pairs and that the entire demand is purchased from a single supplier. Our contribution is twofold: First, we will analyze the winner determination problem in case of multiple sourcing. Second, we will extend the concept of multi-attribute auctions to allow for configurable offers. Configurable offers enable suppliers to specify multiple values and price markups for each attribute. In addition, suppliers can define configuration and discount rules in form of propositional logic statements. These extensions provide suppliers with more flexibility in the specification of their bids and allow for an efficient information exchange among market participants. We will present MIP formulations for the resulting allocation problems and an implementation.
A unified analysis of rational voting with private values and group-specific costs☆

We provide a unified analysis of the canonical rational voting model with privately known political preferences and costs of voting. Focusing on type-symmetric equilibrium, we show that for small electorates, members of the minority group vote with a strictly higher probability than do those in the majority, but the majority is strictly more likely to win the election. As the electorate size grows without bound, equilibrium outcome is completely determined by the individuals possessing the lowest cost of voting in each political group. We relate our equilibrium characterization to Myerson’s Poisson games, and examine the potential uniqueness of equilibrium.
More water stored along major rivers during El Niño years

El Nino–Southern Oscillation (ENSO)—the semiperiodic climate event associated with warming sea surface temperatures off the coast of Peru—not only disrupts atmospheric circulations, dramatically altering weather patterns across the globe, but also may be determining the amount of fresh water stored on continents in tropical rainforests, according to a new study. Phillips et al. used more than 7 years of satellite-based observations of fresh water content of continents from the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) to show that between 2003 and 2010 the amount of fresh water stored on land (in terms of rainwater, river water, lake water, groundwater, and snow) between the 15°N and 15°S latitudes depends on El Nino– Southern Oscillation. The authors also found that the effect of ENSO is strongest on land areas adjacent to the Pacific Ocean. The maximum increase in the amount of stored fresh water on land was observed during El Nino years along major river valleys in the Borneo region of southeast Asia, the Amazon, the Congo, and the Yangzte and Met Cong in China.
Nursing Students' Personalities as Measured by the California Psychological Inventory: Participants Vs Nonparticipants in a Program of Research:

The purpose of this study was to use the California Psychological Inventory to assess whether certain personality variables would differ for two groups of nursing students who were participating in an experimental, longitudinal clinical education study. The inventory was administered to 28 nursing students during the spring semester of their senior year. Analysis indicated that the 12 students in the control group scored significantly higher on three subscales, Capacity for Status, Sociability, and Social Presence, than did the 16 in the special program.
M-Consumer Segmentation: M-Communication, M-Distribution, and M-Accessibility

The purpose of this study was to examine the interrelationship among the m-consumers’ personality traits, m-communication, m-distribution, and m-accessibility utilities, as well as their willingness to m-shop. This study found that m-communication and m-accessibility utilities were key factors in predicting willingness to m-shop. Our findings demonstrated that more extraverted, more agreeable, and less neurotic m-consumers were likely to perceive high levels of m-communication utility. More conscientious m-consumers were likely to perceive high levels of m-distribution utility and low levels of m-accessibility utility. In addition, this study identified that consumers who were more open to experience, more extraverted, and less conscientious were likely to have high levels of willingness to m-shop. Managerial implications and recommendations for future research were presented.
Energy Requirements of Lactating Women Derived from Doubly Labeled Water and Milk Energy Output

Instead of using an incremental approach to assess the energy requirements of lactation, a more comprehensive approach may be taken by measuring total energy expenditure (TEE), milk energy output and energy mobilization from tissue stores. The latter approach avoids assumptions regarding energetic efficiency and changes in physical activity and adiposity. The purpose of this study was threefold: to assess the energy requirements of lactation; to compare these estimates with energy requirements in the nonpregnant, nonlactating state and to test for energetic adaptations in basal metabolic rate (BMR) and physical activity during the energy-demanding process of lactation. Milk production and composition, body weight and composition, TEE, BMR and physical activity levels were measured in 24 well-nourished women during exclusive breastfeeding at 3 mo postpartum and after the cessation of breastfeeding at 18 or 24 mo postpartum. TEE was measured by the doubly labeled water method, milk production by 3-d test-weighing, milk energy by bomb calorimetry on a 24-h milk sample, body composition by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry and BMR by room respiration calorimetry. TEE, BMR and physical activity level (physical activity level = TEE/BMR) did not differ between the lactating and nonlactating state (TEE 10.0 +/- 1.5 versus 10.6 +/- 2.1 MJ/d). Mean milk energy output was equivalent to 2.02 +/- 0.33 MJ/d. Total energy requirements were greater during lactation than afterward (12.0 +/- 1.4 versus 10.6 +/- 2.1 MJ/d, P: = 0.002). Energy mobilization from tissue stores (-0.65 +/- 0.97 MJ/d) resulted in net energy requirements during lactation of 11.4 +/- 1.8 MJ/d. Because adaptations in basal metabolism and physical activity were not evident in these well-nourished women, energy requirements during lactation were met primarily from the diet and only partially by mobilization of tissue stores.