cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Chicken Processing By-Product: A Source of Protein for Fat Uptake Reduction in Deep-Fried Chicken

Abstract Chicken processing generates large quantities of by-products which can be used a source of protein for fat uptake reduction in fried chicken industry. This study investigated the use of edible coating prepared from chicken protein (CP) recovered using isoelectric precipitation/solubilization (ISP) from chicken drumstick processing by-products as a fat blocker in deep-fat fried chicken drumsticks samples. The samples were coated with edible coating at three different CP concentrations 5, 10, or 15% w/w and subsequently dipped in batter and breaded prior to deep frying. Deep-fat fried samples without edible coating served as control. The samples were deep-fried at 177 °C for 3–4 min. Proximate composition, pH, texture, frying yield and sensory properties of the samples were tested. Total fat content of deep-fried samples with 15% coating showed the lowest amount of absorbed fat, about 60% less than the control. No difference was found between the color, pH and sensory properties of the coated and uncoated samples. However, uncoated samples were harder than coated samples. Also, samples coated with coating had higher moisture content and frying yield after frying, compared to uncoated samples. The development of low-fat fried foods using this approach would allow consumers to enjoy the taste and texture that is characteristic of fried food. At the same time, the food industry can reduce the environmental issues due to disposal of chicken processing by-products. The use of chicken proteins as an edible coating on fried chicken is novel and product friendly.
NO Oxidation by Activated Carbon Catalysts: Impact of Carbon Characteristics, Pressure, and the Presence of Water.

Nitric oxide can be removed from flue gas by catalytic oxidation of NO to NO2, followed by dissolution of NO2 in water. The work presented here includes catalytic NO oxidation by activated carbons (ACs) at atmospheric and elevated pressures under dry and wet conditions at ambient temperature. The AC samples had different physicochemical characteristics including surface areas of ∼400-1600 m2/g and micropore volumes of ∼0.2-0.6 cm3/g while having different surface chemistries. Dry tests indicated that introducing nitrogen functionalities or coating with pyrolytic carbon could enhance the catalytic activity of AC for NO oxidation. Nitric oxide concentration profiles from the oxidation experiments under dry conditions showed maximum values after 5-15.5 h of testing and a steady-state condition after ∼12-30 h and that a major release of NO2 began after reaching the maximum values in the NO concentration. Adsorption profiles showed a high rate of NO x adsorption during the early hours of these experiments, and this rate decreased almost exponentially to a near-zero value. A near-complete catalytic conversion was achieved for NO oxidation at 120 psig under dry conditions, substantially higher than the 62% value of the noncatalytic NO oxidation at 217 psig. The wet trickle-bed experiments revealed that an inert packing material with a high external surface was a more suitable option than the ACs for NO oxidation in a wet trickle-bed system, even for ACs that exhibited high catalytic reactivity under dry conditions. Noncatalytic NO oxidation in the trickle-bed system was enhanced by the higher gas-liquid contact surface of the packing material for NO2 dissolution in water. Complete wetting of the hydrophilic AC or the presence of water vapor in the gas in contact with the surface of the superhydrophobic AC could eliminate or drastically reduce the catalytic activity of the AC for NO oxidation.
Pharmacotherapeutic options for weight regain after bariatric surgery.

We sought to critically evaluate the recent literature published over the past 3 years on the topic of weight regain after bariatric surgery in children, adolescents, and adults, with an emphasis on clinically relevant information for pharmacologic treatment of weight regain after metabolic and bariatric surgery. There are multiple pharmacotherapeutic agents available to treat obesity in children, adolescents, and adults; these agents have varying efficacy and indications for use and have been studied in a variety of clinical and research scenarios. We present an overview of these findings. This review represents a comprehensive compilation of the recently published data on efficacy of anti-obesity pharmacotherapy in the treatment of weight regain after bariatric surgery for children, adolescents, and adults.
Cyclophosphamide enhances the antitumor potency of GITR engagement by increasing oligoclonal cytotoxic T cell fitness

Only a subset of cancer patients responds to checkpoint blockade inhibition in the clinic. Strategies to overcome resistance are promising areas of investigation. Targeting glucocorticoid-induced tumor necrosis factor receptor-related protein (GITR) has shown efficacy in preclinical models, but GITR engagement is ineffective in controlling advanced, poorly immunogenic tumors, such as B16 melanoma, and has not yielded benefit in clinical trials. The alkylating agent cyclophosphamide (CTX) depletes regulatory T cells (Tregs), expands tumor-specific effector T cells (Teffs) via homeostatic proliferation, and induces immunogenic cell death. GITR agonism has an inhibitory effect on Tregs and activates Teffs. We therefore hypothesized that CTX and GITR agonism would promote effective antitumor immunity. Here we show that the combination of CTX and GITR agonism controlled tumor growth in clinically relevant mouse models. Mechanistically, we show that the combination therapy caused tumor cell death, clonal expansion of highly active CD8+ T cells, and depletion of Tregs by activation-induced cell death. Control of tumor growth was associated with the presence of an expanded population of highly activated, tumor-infiltrating, oligoclonal CD8+ T cells that led to a diminished TCR repertoire. Our studies show that the combination of CTX and GITR agonism is a rational chemoimmunotherapeutic approach that warrants further clinical investigation.
Carbon flux from plants to soil: roots are a below-ground source of phenolic secondary compounds in an alpine ecosystem

Summary 1 Phenolics are an important, biologically reactive component of the carbon (C) pool that moves from plants to soil. Once in soil, phenolics can regulate plant–soil feedbacks because of their influence on soil nitrogen biogeochemistry. 2 Roots are a largely overlooked potential source of below-ground phenolic C. We examined phenolic fluxes from plants to soil in an alpine ecosystem, where phenolics are associated with slow rates of nutrient cycling. Using a phenolic-rich forb (Acomastylis rossii) and a grass with low tissue phenolics (Deschampsia caespitosa), we asked whether leaves, leaf litter or roots are the dominant source of soil phenolics during the growing season. We also determined whether the composition of root-derived phenolics differed from that of leaf litter. 3 Both labile low molecular weight phenolics and tannins disappeared from A. rossii leaf litter over the winter. Evidence from this study and others indicates litter phenolics are not a significant source of labile C for soil microbes throughout the growing season. 4 In the field, levels of phenolics were higher under A. rossii canopies than under D. caespitosa canopies throughout the growing season. We also estimated significantly higher phenolic fluxes into soils for A. rossii than for D. caespitosa in the glasshouse. Field and glasshouse results suggest roots are an important source of these compounds. Furthermore, the phenolic chemistry of roots was different from that of leaf litter, indicating that the effects of root phenolics on soil processes and neighbouring plant growth may differ from those associated with leaves. 5 Synthesis. Based on our results, labile phenolic inputs from roots are likely to have a more important influence on soil nutrient dynamics during the alpine growing season than phenolic inputs from leaf litter. We suggest that roots may be the dominant input of labile phenolics to soil during the growing season in other ecosystems with seasonal patterns of plant growth and senescence. These observations are critical to our understanding of how phenolic-rich species may interact with soil microbes to influence soil nutrient cycling and shape the soil resource environment.
Changing Role of Central Banks and Different Policies Implemented in Response to the Recent Financial Crisis

With respect to competition policies, rescue cases involving guarantees (contrasted with restructuring cases) during the recent Financial Crisis, have illustrated the prominent position which the goal of promoting financial stability has assumed over that of the prevention or limitation of possible distortions of competition which may arise when granting State aid. In respect of monetary policies and tools implemented by central banks, the recent Financial Crisis has also illustrated how the traditional role of central banks has been extended to incorporate more innovative roles. The reduction of interest rates by central banks to all time lows – along with other unprecedented actions which have been undertaken by central banks, as evidenced by the recent Financial Crisis, have been regarded as extensions of traditional methods of operation which have resulted in a new territory in which tools have been implemented in very new ways.The importance attached to maintaining and promoting financial stability – as well as the need to facilitate rescue and restructuring measures aimed at preventing systemically relevant financial institutions from failure, demonstrate how far authorities are willing to overlook certain competition policies. However, increased government and central bank intervention also simultaneously trigger the usual concerns – which include moral hazard and the danger of serving as long term substitutes for market discipline. How far central banks and governments should intervene and how far distortions of competition should be permitted ultimately depends on how systemically relevant a financial institution is. An interesting observation derives from the relationship between State aid grants, competition, and the potential to induce higher risk taking levels. Whilst the need to promote and maintain financial stability is paramount, safeguards need to be implemented and enforced to ensure that measures geared towards the aim of sustaining system stability (measures such as lender of last resort arrangements and State rescues) do not unduly distort competition as well as induce higher risk taking levels. As well as providing an analysis of tools, competition and monetary policies implemented during the recent Financial Crisis, this paper also attempts to highlight how far central banks and governments should intervene during periods of financial crises. Through an analysis of how the traditional role of central banks has evolved through the duration of the Financial Crisis, it also provides an idea of how regulatory roles could immensely benefit from such an evolvement of central banks' roles.
Compass Maritime Services, LLC: Valuing Ships (CW)

Tom Roberts, founding partner of Compass Maritime Services, a New Jersey-based firm specializing in the sale and purchase of ships (“S&P brokers” in the industry parlance), valuation, shipping research, and consulting, was approached in May 2008, by a client who wanted to purchase a capesize bulk carrier. Roberts asked Basil Karatzas, the firm’s Director of Projects and Finance, to find a suitable ship and value it. Karatzas identified the Bet Performer, an 11-year old bulk carrier, and his challenge is to use the available data to determine an appropriate offer price for the client. The case provides data on recent ship sales including sale price and a variety of ship features (e.g., age, size, and current charter rates). Students can use either comparable ship analysis or regression analysis to determine an appropriate price for the ship. The case also provides information about the global shipping industry and charter rates which have risen dramatically in recent years. This case is designed to accomplish four pedagogical objectives: 1) Teach basic valuation analysis using comparable transactions. 2) Teach basic regression analysis (both simple and multiple regression). 3) Illustrate how regression analysis can be used to help make an important investment decision (used capesize ships cost from $50-$160 million). 4) Illustrate the importance of integrating managerial judgment with analytic tools when making important investment decisions. This case is appropriate for a wide variety of courses including introductory finance and quantitative methods courses in a business school, or introductory econometrics and statistics courses in a college or university. To assist students with analyzing and preparing the case, there is an Excel workbook (“HBS Courseware”) available from HBS Publishing or the authors.
A Review of: “Melba Cuddy-Keane. Virginia Woolf, the Intellectual, & the Public Sphere”

This largely cogent and accessible monograph proposes that Virginia Woolf, far from being a coterie writer, actively worked towards a society of critical readers whose commitment would transcend cl...
Non random cytogenetic changes characterize Merkel cell carcinoma

Merkel cell carcinoma is a rapidly proliferating neoplasm of neuroectodermal origin presenting in skin. Karyotypes obtained in direct preparations of three Merkel cell carcinomas were analyzed and compared with six other tumors which were reported in the literature. Of the nine tumors studied so far, eight (89 per cent) showed structural abnormalities of chromosome 1. These abnormalities were in the form of trisomy for chromosome 1q22----ter. Furthermore, it was also observed that the breaks of these rearrangements on chromosome 1 occurred at the bands to which c-oncogenes N-ras (p31), L-myc (p32), c-src (p36), c-ski (q22-22), and the beta-subunit of the nerve growth factor (NGF) (p22) were localized. In addition to structural changes, five out of the nine tumors (55.5 per cent) were trisomic for chromosome 1. Merkel cell tumors are often confused with small cell carcinoma of lung or peripheral neuroepithelioma. The cytogenetic abnormalities such as rearrangement of chromosome 3p and t(11;22)(q23;q12) which characterize lung carcinoma and peripheral neuroepithelioma, respectively, were not seen in any of the nine Merkel cell tumors studied. Thus it appears that rearrangement of chromosome 1 was non-randomly associated with Merkel cell carcinoma. It is of interest to note that genes involved in neuronal development and or differentiation have been mapped to the bands at which breaks occurred in these tumors. The significance of these changes is briefly discussed.
Increased Antitumor Effects Using IL-2 with Anti–TGF-β Reveals Competition between Mouse NK and CD8 T Cells

Because of increasing interest in the removal of immunosuppressive pathways in cancer, the combination of IL-2 with Abs to neutralize TGF-β, a potent immunosuppressive cytokine, was assessed. Combination immunotherapy resulted in significantly greater antitumor effects. These were correlated with significant increases in the numbers and functionality of NK cells, NK cell progenitors, and activated CD8 T cells, resulting in the observed antitumor effects. Combination immunotherapy also was accompanied by lesser toxicities than was IL-2 therapy alone. Additionally, we observed a dual competition between NK cells and activated CD8 T cells such that, after immunotherapy, the depletion of either effector population resulted in the increased total expansion of the other population and compensatory antitumor effects. This study demonstrates the efficacy of this combination immunotherapeutic regimen as a promising cancer therapy and illustrates the existence of potent competitive regulatory pathways between NK cells and CD8 T cells in response to systemic activation.
Performance enhancement induced Trojan states in op-amps, their detection and removal

It is well-known that self-stabilized circuits, such as current, voltage and frequency references, are vulnerable to multiple operating points problem. This is also known as the start-up problem. In this paper, we show that the widely used analog building block, namely the op-amp, can suffer from the same problem when performance enhancement feedback is being used. In particular, slew rate enhancement circuit (SRE) can be used as an performance enhancement circuitry in the low power high speed op-amp design. For such circuit, we present a systematic method for detecting and removing Trojan state. With design example and simulation results, it is demonstrated that the proposed method can effectively remove Trojan state in the op-amp.
Entanglement swapping in a single-photon two-qubit logic circuit

We have implemented a SWAP gate to transfer entanglement from the momentum to the polarization degree of freedom of down-converted photon pairs. The polarization-entangled pairs thus created violate Bell's inequality by more than 150 standard deviations
Effects of alloxan on glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, glucose metabolism, and cyclic adenosine 3', 5'-monophosphate levels in rat isolated islets of langerhans.

Insulin secretion was stimulated and cyclic adenosine 3′, 5′-monophosphate (cAMP) levels were elevated in isolated rat islets by 27.5 mmol/l glucose. Alloxan caused a dose-dependent decrease in both variables with complete obliteration of insulin release at a concentration of 1.25 mmol/l. D-glucose, in the presence or absence of extracellular calcium, or 3-0-methyl-D-glucose (both at 27.5 mmol/l) protected completely against the effects of alloxan on both glucose-induced insulin release and cAMP levels. 3-0-Methylglucose did not stimulate insulin secretion or elevate cAMP and did not interfere with glucose-stimulated secretion or elevation of cAMP. When glucose-stimulated insulin release was abolished by alloxan, the metabolism of glucose, determined by the rate of3H2O formation from [5-3H] glucose, was depressed by 20%. It is concluded that alloxan altered the adenylate cyclase system such that it could no longer be stimulated by glucose. Glucose-stimulated insulin secretion or elevation of cAMP did not appear essential for glucose to protect against alloxan. Protection by 3-0-methylglucose did not appear to be mediated through an alteration of cAMP metabolism. Alloxan did not inhibit glucose-induced insulin secretion by grossly altering glycolysis.
Pose estimation and transformation of faces

A new technique is discussed to estimate the pose (orientation) of unknown human faces from 2D gray-scale images and then transform the unknown face to a reference pose using a nonlinear feature extraction procedure. This feature extraction scheme is known as the maximum representation and discrimination feature (MRDF) method. The MRDF is shown to provide good features for discrimination between classes that is useful for pose estimation, and for object representation that is useful for pose transformation of an unknown face. Our approach is computationally efficient and has numerous potential applications, including post-invariant face recognition.© (1998) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Behavior and Testing Performance of a Gas Tankless Water Heater

Tankless water heaters present an opportunity to dramatically reduce water heating energy use. These impacts are possible because of their dramatic reduction of environmental losses through lower heat transfer areas and not keeping the heat exchanger at operating temperature between draws. The potential for energy savings has caused a lot of interest in the scientific community. However, the scientific community has not yet gained an understanding of these devices and several questions regarding their behavior remain. The areas of uncertainty include the following: 1) how these heaters behave around the minimum flow rate, 2) how well they adapt to changes in water flow rate, 3) how they behave in situations with preheated water (i.e. when used with solar water heaters) and 4) whether or not draw characteristics impact the steady state efficiency. Tests have been performed on a Rinnai R75Lsi to determine the answers to these questions for a specific heater. Tests were performed with 1) gradually changing flow rate to identify the minimum flow rate, 2) rapidly adjusting the flow rate to observe how the heater responded to suddenly changing draws, 3) temperature-flow combinations such that the minimum heat rate exceeded the required heat rate, and 4) draws under steady state conditions with varying flow rates and set temperatures. Minimum flow rate results indicate that the heater will not fire unless the flow rate surpasses 2.8 L/min and will cease firing if the flow rate decreases below 2.15 L/min while the owners manual states that the minimum flow rate is 2.3 L/min. Rapidly changing flow rate results indicate that there can be temperature fluctuations up to 9 °C and unsteady operation for up to 1 minute depending on the magnitude of the flow rate change. Tests with preheated inlet water showed that the heater uses feedback controls to avoid unstable operation at low heat rates. Steady state efficiency tests did not identify any variables which impact efficiency. Future work should include testing additional units to determine how other heaters, particularly those not manufactured by Rinnai, behave in similar situations.© 2011 ASME
Growth Variation, Settlement, and Spawning of Gray Snapper across a Latitudinal Gradient

Abstract Newly recruited juvenile gray snapper Lutjanus griseus were collected each fall for two consecutive years (2000 and 2001) from sites in Florida and North Carolina. Spawning, settlement, and growth patterns were compared across sites based on otolith microstructure. Larval otolith growth trajectories were generally similar for larvae from different sites and years; however, the mean pelagic larval duration (PLD) was 1 d longer for fish from North Carolina than for fish from the more southern sites. As a result, fish were larger at settlement to North Carolina. Estimated juvenile growth rates ranged between 0.62 and 0.88 mm/d and differed across sites and years, growth being generally faster at the southern sites. Water temperature accounts for some of this variability; however, site-specific differences in other factors probably contributed to some of the observed differences in growth. Back-calculated spawning patterns showed a lunar association with the new and first-quarter moons at all sites e...
The role of UN Environment Programme and the US Environmental Protection Agency in global Supply Chain Networks performance

Environmental degradation has been a major issue for all nations and societies since the Industrial Revolution. Various organisations promote awareness and help to design and manage Environmental Management Systems (EMSs) in supply chain networks as delineated in the Macro Environmental Management Model. In this paper, the authors discuss the role and activities of two influential organisations, the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA), and briefly overview environmental performance of China and India. The above-mentioned organisations have had significant impact on global supply chains, and are illustrated with selected case studies and data.
An intermediate-field radio frequency transition scheme for a source of polarized protons

Abstract A scheme of radio-frequency transitions useful for production of polarized particles by atomic beam methods is described. It can be substituted for the low-field transition of Abragam and Winter in many situations, but does not cause an identical set of population transfers. The total atomic angular momentum F is preserved in the transitions, which interchange the populations of two levels at a time in a magnetic field of such magnitude that these transitions may be considered to be independent. The transition scheme works for any hydrogenic atom; specific operating parameters are given for all three isotopes of hydrogen.
Sporadic Legionnaires' Disease: Clinical Observations on 87 Nosocomial and Community-Acquired Cases

To add information about sporadic Legionnaires' disease, 87 cases of L. pneumophila pneumonia were reviewed. Twenty cases were nosocomial infections and 67 cases were community-acquired. Most cases (64%) occurred between July and October. The mean age of patients was 51.4 years and males outnumbered females 2.5:1.0. Thirty-one percent of patients were receiving corticosteroid, immunosuppressive, or antineoplastic chemotherapy when illness began. Immunosuppression at onset of illness was more common in nosocomial infections (90%) than in community-acquired infections (14%). Seventy percent of patients had underlying diseases. Malignancies, renal failure, and transplantation were the most common conditions underlying nosocomial infections. Chronic lung disease and malignancies were the most common diseases underlying community-acquired infections. The case-fatality rate in nosocomial infection (70%) was greater than that in community-acquired disease (22%). Clinical, laboratory, and radiologic features of the cases were examined. Illness ranged from mild to severe. Extra pulmonary findings of encephalopathy and renal failure were more common in fatal than in non-fatal cases. Indirect immunofluorescent and microagglutination antibody responses plateaued by the fourth week of illness. Twenty-nine patients died. The case-fatality rate of patients receiving erythromycin (6%) was less than that of patients receiving penicillin (36%), ampicillin (28%), cephalosporin (32%), or aminoglycosides (41%). Despite erythromycin therapy, the case fatality rate for nosocomial L. pneumophilia pneumonia was unacceptably high (25%).
A simplified toroidal ion trap mass analyzer

Abstract A radiofrequency toroidal ion trap mass analyzer comprised of four cylindrical electrodes is described. The ion trap consists of two RF electrodes and an AC electrode that surround a central electrode. Mass-analyzed ions are ejected through a slit in the central cylinder. A conversion dynode and electron multiplier are contained within the central cylinder for ion detection. The orientation of the RF and AC electrodes allows for inward-radial ejection of ions, removing the need for ion collection optics. Resolution of the toluene m / z 91 ion was determined for both a forward mass selective instability scan as well as for a reverse scan with resonant ejection. These experiments were performed in parallel with the stretching and compressing of the RF ring electrode spacing. Experimental resolution (Δ m ) values compare well with previous toroidal ion traps. The stability diagram for the toluene m / z 91 ion is also reported. The diagram possesses a slightly asymmetric profile due to asymmetry of the trapping dimensions as well as the curvature of the toroidal trapping region. Finally, the tandem (MS 2 ) mass spectrum of iso-butylbenzene is reported.
Multiaxial Creep of 2618 Aluminum Under Proportional Loading Steps

Abstract : Creep data of 2618-T61 aluminum alloy under multistep multiaxial proportional loadings at 200 degrees C (392 degrees F) are reported. Two viscoplastic flow rules were developed using constant stress creep and strain recovery data. One was based on the accumulated strain (strain hardening), and the other on a tensorial state variable (kinematic hardening). Data were represented by two models: a nonrecoverable viscoplastic model and a viscous-viscoelastic model in which the time-dependent strain was resolved into resolved into recoverable (viscoelastic) and nonrecoverable components. The modified superposition principles was used to predict the viscoelastic strain component under variable stress states for both models. The experiments showed that the viscous-viscoelastic model with either strain-hardening or kinematic hardening gave very good predictions of the material responses. Strain hardening was best in some step-down stress states. The viscoelastic component accounted for not only the recovery strain but also the transient creep strain upon reloadings and step-up loadings.
Prevention of hospital infection

The prevention of nosocomial infections is an important aspect of patient care, particularly in high-risk areas such as intensive care units (ICUs). Local hospital leadership needs to develop easily defined infection-control policies that are evidence-based. These infection-control policies also require the presence of a dedicated group of infection-control practitioners to provide education, collect surveillance data, and oversee the implementation of the local infection-control plan.
Pion-Proton Resonance Scattering Near 900 Mev

The scattering of negative and positive pions by hydrogen in the laboratory energy range 470 to 1200 Mev was investigated in order to clarify the broad resonance occurring near 900 Mev. The target was five feet of liquid hydrogen. The experimental setup is described. and results are given. (W.D.M.)
Vapor synthesis of alkali metal-TCNQ salt films

Abstract Alkali metal salts of the radical anion of the organic acceptor 7,7,8,8-tetracyanoquinodimethan (TCNQ) have been synthesized from neutral TCNQ and the elemental alkali metals by means of a vapor reaction technique. Using this method thin, polycrystalline films of the simple (1:1) salts of Li, Na, K, and Rb were prepared as well as films of the complex (2:3) salt of Cs. X-Ray powder diffraction data for these materials are presented and compared with data obtained both from materials synthesized by conventional solution reactions and from known crystal structure data. The ultraviolet photoemission spectrum of NaTCNQ was found to correlate very well with that previously reported for KTCNQ.
Transporting Good Library Instruction Practices into the Web Environment: An Analysis of Online Tutorials.

Criteria for good library instruction practices were applied to Web-based tutorials selected by the ALA Library Instruction Round Table. Face-to-face instruction and the online environment do not always lend themselves to exact parallels, yet in some respects the traditional criteria can guide librarians in developing good online instruction.
Transport properties of electrodeposited epitaxial Ni(111) films on GaAs(110) with low defect density

Abstract Epitaxial Ni thin films were prepared on GaAs(110) substrates using electrodeposition. Resistivity and Hall effect measurements were performed as a function of film thickness. The bulk resistivity value at room temperature is close to the literature value for Ni whereas the low temperature bulk resistivity value is of the order of 0.1 μΩcm, indicating a very low intra-layer defect density due to the high quality of the epitaxial growth. The anomalous Hall coefficient varies with the film resistivity as ρ1.3 and thus strongly depends on the film thickness. Such films with very low defect density might serve as model systems for the study of electromigration effects.
Update on the role of leukemia inhibitory factor in assisted reproduction.

Purpose of reviewTo review the recent literature on the involvement and importance of leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) in the human implantation process, and the attempts using LIF-based interventions to improve assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) outcome in women with recurrent implantation f
Surface Roughness Effect on Slider Bearing Lubrication

The effect of roughness of surfaces of a slider bearing on the load-carrying capacity and friction force, is studied. The distinction is made between waviness and roughness, the latter being treated as a random quantity which may be characterized by a probability density function, determined experimentally. Results can be obtained in closed form suitable for calculation if a Beta distribution is assumed. Actually, this can approximate quite closely a Gaussian distribution, yielding quite accurate results. However, the procedure developed can be carried out for any desired distribution.
A model of the dynamical structure of earth's outer core

Abstract The dynamical state of the outer core is quantified, assuming that the convective pattern consists of buoyant parcels which rise to the top, forcing a broad descending flow in the bulk of the outer core. This convective circulation is assumed sufficiently rapid that the outer core is close to a well-mixed adiabatic state. Small compositional deviations from this state, resulting from the secular evolution of composition as the solid inner core grows, make the descending portion of the outer core stably stratified. Thermal deviations result from the mismatch between effective volumetric heating and the divergence of conducted heat. Effective volumetric heating is the sum of secular cooling, compressional heating and Ohmic heating. Divergence of heat is negative and larger in magnitude than effective volumetric heating throughout the core, resulting in a stabilizing thermal gradient in the descending fluid which reinforces the compositional gradient. The compositional and thermal contributions to the stable stratification are of comparable magnitudes. The strength of stratification depends on the strength of the convective circulation, which is unquantified. This stratification, coupled with Coriolis and Lorentz forces, has the potential to inhibit turbulence in the descending portions of the outer core. The thermal and compositional perturbations arising from processes at the inner-core boundary and core–mantle boundary are quantified and the dynamic behavior of the rising parcels is discussed and quantified. Depending on the sign and magnitude of exchanges of heat and composition, convective motions may be inhibited or suppressed near the top of the outer core.
Palaeomagnetic Results From the Indian Heaven Volcanic Field, South-Central Washington.

Summary Palaeomagnetic data have been obtained from Plio-Pleistocene rocks of the Indian Heaven volcanic field (IHVF) located in the High Cascade province in southern Washington. Alternating field demagnetization yielded well-defined directions from 56 individual lava flows (sites) from 23 volcanic units. All units sampled were normally magnetized suggesting that volcanic activity within the Indian Heaven region occurred primarily during the last 0.73 Myr and not over the last 3.75 Myr as suggested by K-Ar ages. Combining palaeomagnetically similar site mean directions from lava flows from the same volcanic unit resulted in N= 35. the mean direction calculated from this data set is I= 65.2° and D = 0.2° (095 = 3.3°; k = 56.4) while the palaeomagnetic pole [calculated using virtual geomagnetic pole (VGP) data] is located at 87.7°N, 231.4°E (or95 = 4.7; k= 27.2). This pole is not significantly different from the pole determined from all data (N= 56) or the rotational axis and is slightly near-sided with respect to the mean sampling site longitude. the between-site angular dispersion of the VGPs about the mean for N-35 and N= 56, although low, is not statistically different at the 95% confidence level from the expected value predicted by model F of McFadden & McElhinny (1984). Our data, together with other recent data from the western United States, do not confirm the presence of a persistent standing non-dipole field component in this region during the Plio-Pleistocene as suggested by Brown & Mertzman (1979). Additionally, these data suggest that VGP angular dispersion associated with the geomagnetic field has been decreasing over the last 5 Myr.
Coexistence of spin-density wave and d-wave superconducting order parameter

We study the properties of a spin-density-wave antiferromagnetic mean-field ground state with d-wave superconducting correlations. This ground state always gains energy by Cooper pairing. It would fail to superconduct at half-filling due to the antiferromagnetic gap although its particle-like excitations would be Bogolyubov-BCS quasiparticles consisting of coherent mixtures of electrons and holes. More interesting and relevant to the superconducting cuprates is the case when antiferromagnetic order is turned on weakly on top of the superconductivity. This would correspond to the onset of antiferromagnetism at a critical doping. In such a case a small gap proportional to the weak antiferromagnetic gap opens up for nodal quasiparticles, and the quasiparticle peak would be discernible. We evaluate numerically the absorption by nodal quasiparticles and the local density of states for several ground states with antiferromagnetic and d-wave superconducting correlations.
Charisma: Its Varieties, Preconditions, and Consequences

This paper explores the preconditions for, the nature of, and the consequences of charisma—actors that must be understood for charisma to he a useful empirical and theoretical concept. Unfortunately, as the first section of this essay demonstrates, due primarily to the influence of certain of Max Weber's discussions of charisma, sociological progress in these areas has been limited. However, drawing on two neglected hints by Weber–that the preconditions for the phenomenon of charisma are extraordinary human needs and that Freud's work can illuminate this field of inquiry–the second section of this essay attempts to correct this state of affairs through an application of the results of much psychoanalytic investigation. It argues that, because extraordinary needs (the preconditions for charisma) are of various types, charisma must be differentiated into four phenomena–omnipotence, excellence, sacredness, and the uncanny–and it then tentatively specifies both their variable immediate and long-range consequences. In so doing, it incorporates systematically many of the widely divergent findings reported in sociological research.
Peak-to-Average Power Ratio Reduction in an FDM Broadcast System

Digital predistortion is a technique used to reduce the signal dynamic range in a multichannel system in order to improve power amplifier (PA) efficiency. These techniques have been developed for orthogonal frequency-division multi-plexing (OFDM) systems, but are not directly applicable to general frequency-division multiplexing (FDM) systems such as those used in broadcast. A modification to the tone injection approach allows constellation translations to be directly applied at the digital intermediate frequency (IF) domain and provides redundancy in lowering peak-to-average ratio (PAR). Simulation of a 24-channel 256-QAM FDM cable television transmission system shows a 3.3 dB PAR reduction at 10-6 clipping probability.
Increasing the capacity of community development corporations for brownfield redevelopment: an inside-out approach

While the redevelopment of brownfield sites has been the mainstay of public agencies and private developers, this paper argues that in order to promote just redevelopment that encourages participation and targets weak market sites, a community-based approach to brownfield redevelopment should be encouraged. Furthermore, this paper maintains that community development corporations (CDCs) could be the ideal agents to spur community development and address environmental justice concerns through their increased involvement in brownfield redevelopment projects. In order to promote these positions, we first describe this new approach, which focuses on building the capacity of CDCs to meaningfully participate in brownfield redevelopment. We then offer four proposals designed to increase this capacity. We conclude with a discussion of how community-based brownfield redevelopment connects to larger issues of democratic decision-making, environmental justice, and urban revitalisation.
Imprinting of hippocampal metabolism of choline by its availability during gestation: Implications for cholinergic neurotransmission

Choline supplementation during the second half of the gestational period in rats permanently improves visuospatial memory. Choline availability during this period also alters the turnover of choline and acetylcholine in the hippocampus in 3-4 week-old animals in a complex pattern consistent with the notion that cholinergic neurotransmission is enhanced by prenatal choline supplementation.
Identification of the Sensory Neuron Specific Regulatory Region for the Mouse Gene Encoding the Voltage Gated Sodium Channel Nav1.8

Voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSC) are critical membrane components that participate in the electrical activity of excitable cells. The type one VGSC family includes the tetrodotoxin insensitive sodium channel, NaV1.8, encoded by the Scn10a gene. NaV1.8 expression is restricted to small and medium diameter nociceptive sensory neurons of the dorsal root ganglia and cranial sensory ganglia. To understand the stringent transcriptional regulation of the Scn10a gene, the sensory neuron specific promoter was functionally identified. While identifying the mRNA 5′-end, alternative splicing within the 5′-UTR was observed to create heterogeneity in the RNA transcript. Four kilobases of upstream genomic DNA was cloned and the presence of tissue specific promoter activity was tested by microinjection and adenoviral infection of fluorescent protein reporter constructs into primary mouse and rat neurons, and cell lines. The region contained many putative transcription factor-binding sites and strong homology with the predicted rat ortholog. Homology to the predicted human ortholog was limited to the proximal end and several conserved cis elements were noted. Two regulatory modules were identified by microinjection of reporter constructs into dorsal root ganglia and superior cervical ganglia neurons: a neuron specific proximal promoter region between −1.6 and −0.2 kb of the transcription start site cluster, and a distal sensory neuron switch region beyond −1.6 kb that restricted fluorescent protein expression to a subset of primary sensory neurons.
When physical similarity matters: Mechanisms underlying affective learning generalization to the evaluation of novel faces

Abstract In two experiments, participants first learned to associate faces with negative, neutral, or positive behaviors and then evaluated morphs of these faces with novel faces. Across both experiments, participants evaluated new (morph) faces that were similar to familiar negative faces more negatively than new (morph) faces that were similar to familiar positive faces. This learning generalization effect was present when participants' judgments of the new (morph) faces were a) based not only on facial appearance but also on relevant behavioral information (Experiment 1); b) made under cognitive load (Experiment 2); and c) made under instructions not to use similarity information (Experiment 2). The findings of the experiments suggest that learning generalization based on facial physical similarity is a powerful and relatively automatic process, which likely influences face evaluation across a range of circumstances.
Teaching Computing as Science in a Research Experience

Many instructors and institutions offer research experiences and training in computing research methods. However, in a national survey, we find that undergraduate students rate their computing research experiences lower than students in other STEM fields. To address this learning gap, we have offered summer undergraduate research experiences in computing that include not only instruction in the important mechanics of research but also grounding in a philosophy of computing science that emphasizes generalized explanation of behavior as a means for control and prediction. After five years, survey results indicate the experience helps close the gap between CS and other STEM fields in benefits gained.
White noise in MOS transistors and resistors

The theoretical and experimental results for white noise in the low-power subthreshold region of operation of an MOS transistor are discussed. It is shown that the measurements are consistent with the theoretical predictions. Measurements of noise in photoreceptors-circuits containing a photodiode and an MOS transistor-that are consistent with theory are reported. The photoreceptor noise measurements illustrate the intimate connection of the equipartition theorem of statistical mechanics with noise calculations. >
A Community-Based Study of Family-Friendly Workplaces

ABSTRACT This applied research study is part of a collaborative effort by local government representatives, business leaders, and social work researchers to investigate workplace support for family needs. It is one of the first to report findings about family-friendly workplace policies and practices across different size and sector work organizations in one community. The prevalence and distribution of these policies and practices are investigated because they can enhance the quality of life for individuals and families and thus should be accessible to all members of the workforce. Findings from a sample of 88 small, medium and large work organizations within the private and public sectors reveal that many employers offer flexible work arrangements while few provide child care services; large organizations as well as organizations in the public or nonprofit sectors provide more work-family stress management benefits than smaller organizations or those in the for-profit sector; large organizations also pr...
Location Aware Training Scheme for D2D networks

We consider the problem of acquiring Channel State Information (CSI) in base-station (BS) controlled Device To Device (D2D) networks. Obtaining high-quality CSI requires a trade-off between interference, outdatedness of CSI, and noise. Thus, the goal is to find an efficient pilot scheduling scheme that minimizes errors in the estimates. In this paper we present the Location Aware Training Scheme (LATS) as simple yet efficient training technique. Assuming that users know their location, LATS distributes the users onto segments and assigns a frequency reuse pattern to them. To identify the parameters of this scheme (size of segments and guard spaces), we numerically minimize the Mean Square Error (MSE) as a metric that combines the outdatedness, noise, and interference. Simulations shows that LATS outperforms other existing schemes.
Optics at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

Current activities at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in the field of optics are briefly described. These activities include work on flight TV systems and an associated digital image-processing laboratory, planetary spectroscopy, spacecraft guidance, and solar radiation simulation. Several supporting research projects are also mentioned.
Geometrical properties of the human child cervical spine with a focus on the C1 vertebra.

Objective: Child dummies and injury criteria used in automotive crashworthiness environments are based on scaling from the adult and/or between children of different ages. Cartilage-to-bone ossification, spinal canal and joint developments of the spine, and strength attainments do not grow linearly from birth to maturity. Though this is known to medical professionals, age-based quantitative analyses are needed to accurately model the pediatric spine. The objective of this study was to quantify longitudinal growths of various regions of the first cervical vertebrae, responsible for transmitting the axial load from the base of the skull through the condyles to the neck/torso. Methods: Computed tomography (CT) images of 54 children from one day to 18 years of age were retrospectively used to determine the following geometrical properties: bilateral neurocentral synchondroses widths, the width of posterior synchondrosis, outer and inner anteroposterior and transverse diameters, spinal canal area, and depths o...
Is volume related to outcome in health care? A systematic review and methodologic critique of the literature

High volume is associated with better outcomes across a wide range of procedures and conditions, but the magnitude of the association varies greatly. The clinical and policy significance of these f...