cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Capturing the global signature of surface ocean acidification during the Palaeocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum

Geologically abrupt carbon perturbations such as the Palaeocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM, approx. 56 Ma) are the closest geological points of comparison to current anthropogenic carbon emissions. Associated with the rapid carbon release during this event are profound environmental changes in the oceans including warming, deoxygenation and acidification. To evaluate the global extent of surface ocean acidification during the PETM, we present a compilation of new and published surface ocean carbonate chemistry and pH reconstructions from various palaeoceanographic settings. We use boron to calcium ratios (B/Ca) and boron isotopes (δ11B) in surface- and thermocline-dwelling planktonic foraminifera to reconstruct ocean carbonate chemistry and pH. Our records exhibit a B/Ca reduction of 30-40% and a δ11B decline of 1.0-1.2‰ coeval with the carbon isotope excursion. The tight coupling between boron proxies and carbon isotope records is consistent with the interpretation that oceanic absorption of the carbon released at the onset of the PETM resulted in widespread surface ocean acidification. The remarkable similarity among records from different ocean regions suggests that the degree of ocean carbonate change was globally near uniform. We attribute the global extent of surface ocean acidification to elevated atmospheric carbon dioxide levels during the main phase of the PETM.This article is part of a discussion meeting issue 'Hyperthermals: rapid and extreme global warming in our geological past'.
The Impact of a Wet $S$ -Band Radome on Dual-Polarized Phased-Array Radar System Performance

This paper discusses the impact of a wet flat radome on the performance of a line replaceable unit active phased-array antenna developed for a dual-polarized phased-array weather radar. Water formations, such as film and droplets, were fully characterized over flat and curved radome surfaces using an analytical model as a function of the precipitation rate. Numerical simulations and experimental results validated the proposed analytical model. An active dual-polarized phased-array of $8\times 2$ elements was used to evaluate the degradation of the cross-polarization component as well as the mismatch and the phase of scanned antenna radiation patterns for vertical and horizontal polarizations. In addition, a radome panel of an $S$ -band weather radar (WSR-88D) was characterized in the far field using a single radio-frequency probe. It is demonstrated that even at the $S$ -band, the water formation on the radome affects both copolarization and cross-polarization components, degrading the overall performance of the dual-polarized radar system under rain conditions.
Maternal and Paternal Depressive Symptoms, Home Learning Environment, and Children's Early Literacy.

The present study examined the influence of mothers’ and fathers’ depressive symptoms on children’s early literacy skills. Home learning-related parenting (HLE) was examined as a mediator of these associations. Families (N = 465) were recruited through preschools. Results indicate an actor effect of fathers’, but not mothers’, depressive symptoms on HLE parenting such that fathers who reported more depressive symptoms engaged in fewer HLE activities. A partner effect of fathers’ depressive symptoms on HLE parenting indicated that higher levels of fathers’ depressive symptoms were associated with lower levels of mothers’ home learning activities. Finally, fathers’ depressive symptoms negatively related to children’s early literacy skills indirectly through mothers’ HLE parenting. Findings highlight a process of negative effect of parent depressive symptoms on children’s early literacy and emphasize including both mothers and fathers in future research concerned with the influence of parents’ depressive symptoms on children’s development.
IDDF2018-ABS-0131 Usefulness of castor oil for bowel preparation for colon capsule endoscopy in the patients on dialysis

Background Colon capsule endoscopy was approved for reimbursement under the national health insurance system of Japan in 2014. For this reason, detailed examination by capsule endoscope appears as useful. However, the capsule excretion rate after recommended bowel preparation reportedly ranges 70% to 90%, and administration of boosters is also necessary. For dialysis patients, liquid loading is a problem. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of bowel preparation with castor oil for improving the capsule excretion rate. In 25 patients both capsule transit time and duration of colon capsule endoscopy were shorted. The results were presented and briefly discussed in the report. Methods This study included patients who underwent colon capsule endoscopy at Masuko Memorial Hospital since March 2016. Colon Capsule endoscopy was performed with Pillcam Colon Capsule (Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN, USA). The recommended protocol for bowel preparation was modified (with the administration of castor oil), and success rate of completing entire colon observation was compared. The dose of castor oil was 6=at each time point. This study was approved by the ethics committee of my hospital, while we obtained written consent from the participants after providing a thorough explanation of the contents and methods of this study. Results The success rate of completing entire colon observation was 24 patients were 35 (96%) in the study. The maximal water intake of the fluid volume is 390=. The average consumption in patients on dialysis was an average of median 317=, and the patients of the smallest water intake had 200=two patients. A utility is very high for the patients on dialysis with moisture restrictions. Conclusions Although the number of patients receiving bowel preparation with castor oil was small, entire colon observation was successful in dialysis patients. Thus, castor oil appears to be useful for bowel preparation for colon capsule endoscopy.
Using REDCap to track stakeholder engagement: A time-saving tool for PCORI-funded studies.

Background Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap) is a secure, web-based electronic data capture application for building and managing surveys and databases. It can also be used for study management, data transfer, and data export into a variety of statistical programs. REDcap was developed and supported by the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences Program and is used in over 3700 institutions worldwide. It can also be used to track and measure stakeholder engagement, an integral element of research funded by the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI). Continuously and accurately tracking and reporting on stakeholder engagement activities throughout the life of a PCORI-funded trial can be challenging, particularly in complex trials with multiple types of engagement. Methods In this paper, we show our approach for collecting and capturing stakeholder engagement activities using a shareable REDCap tool in one of the PCORI's first large pragmatic clinical trials (the Comprehensive Post-Acute Stroke Services) to inform other investigators planning cluster-randomized pragmatic trials. Benefits and challenges are highlighted for researchers seeking to consistently monitor and measure stakeholder engagement. Conclusions We describe how REDCap can provide a time-saving approach to capturing how stakeholders engage in a PCORI-funded study and reporting how stakeholders influenced the study in progress reports back to PCORI.
Oxide dispersion strengthened 304 L stainless steel produced by ink jetting and laser powder bed fusion

Abstract This paper discusses the fundamentals of a novel hybrid method to synthesize oxide dispersion strengthened (ODS) 304 L stainless steel (SS) alloy using a modified laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) machine. Previously, ODS metal matrix composites have been produced by LPBF via ball-milling, which is expensive to scale. Here, we selectively dope yttria nanoparticles into a SS matrix by jetting a precursor chemistry onto the SS substrate prior to laser conversion and consolidation. The new alloy shows good room temperature mechanical properties. Microstructures are studied using electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy and electron backscatter diffraction.
The Deceptively Disparate Treatment of Business and Investment Interest Expense Under a Cash-Flow Consumption Tax and a Schanz-Haig-Simons Income Tax

In spite of their differences, both a cash-flow consumption tax and a Schanz-Haig-Simons income tax require that dollars paid out as business or investment expenses be eliminated from the base. This is necessary under a cash-flow consumption tax because business and investment expenses are not consumption and it is necessary under an SHS tax because these expenditures are neither consumption nor additions to savings. Since business and investment outlays have no place in the base of either tax, intuition suggests that business and investment interest expenses would be treated identically under a cash-flow consumption tax and an SHS tax. But they are not. The cash-flow regime allows a deduction for such interest only if the related debt is included in the tax base whereas business and investment interest is always deductible under an SHS tax even though the related debt is never part of the base (unless the debt is bogus or is ultimately canceled). The apparent conflict is, however, deceptive because the interest expense deduction serves different functions in these two different taxing regimes. In the cash-flow system, business and investment capital income is wholly excluded from the tax base with the result that a deduction for related interest expense is not required to arrive at a net taxable amount. Instead, the cash-flow consumption tax employs an interest expense deduction as part of an adjustment mechanism that removes previously included borrowings from the tax base. Thus, an interest deduction is not appropriate under a cash-flow regime unless the related debt was part of the base at an earlier time. By contrast, an SHS tax always excludes borrowed amounts from its base so that no interest expense deduction is necessary to assist in canceling the prior inclusion of borrowed sums. But an SHS regime invariably includes business and investment income in the base. Consequently, and SHS deduction for business and investment interest expense is required to reduce related gross income to a net amount even though the debt which generated the interest outlay was not a previously included item. This illustrates the point that the propriety of an interest expense deduction depends on the role which is assigned to the deduction in the particular tax system.
Relationships, Sexuality, and Sexual Behavior in Adolescents with ADHD

This book chapter provides a review of recent data regarding the friendships, romantic relationships, and risky sexual behavior of adolescents with ADHD. It offers information as well as recommendations for parents, caregivers, teachers, and clinicians caring for adolescents with ADHD. Additionally, it provides guidance on incorporating therapy to strengthen social skills that will help adolescents with ADHD build solid friendships and romantic relationships and prevent risky sexual behavior which has been associated with poor sexual health outcomes, violence victimization, and perpetration. We also discuss findings regarding the brain hormone oxytocin and its role in impulsive and aggressive behavior. Individuals working with and caring for adolescents and young adults with ADHD should discuss the increased risks associated with their condition and prepare them by providing them with resources, including medication and psychotherapy, to promote healthy relationship building into adulthood.
Predicting the Evolution of Controlled Systems Modeled by Finite Markov Processes

The operation and maintenance of infrastructure components and systems can be modeled as a Markov process, partially or fully observable. Information about the current condition can be summarized by the “inner” state of a finite state controller. When a control policy is assigned, the stochastic evolution of the system is completely described by a Markov transition function. This article applies finite state Markov chain analyses to identify relevant features of the time evolution of a controlled system. We focus on assessing if some critical conditions are reachable (or if some actions will ever be taken), in identifying the probability of these critical events occurring within a time period, their expected time of occurrence, their long-term frequency, and the probability that some events occur before others. We present analytical methods based on linear algebra to address these questions, discuss their computational complexity and the structure of the solution. The analyses can be performed after a policy is selected for a Markov decision process (MDP) or a partially observable MDP. Their outcomes depend on the selected policy and examining these outcomes can provide the decision makers with deeper understanding of the consequences of following that policy, and may also suggest revising it.
Nuclear detox of unsaturated fat.

Fatty acid saturation in phospholipid bilayers alters their fluidity; whether saturation impacts inner nuclear membrane function has never been addressed. In this issue of Developmental Cell, Romanauska and Kohler (2021) show that the inner nuclear membrane detoxifies itself of unsaturated fatty acids by shunting them into cytosolic lipid droplets.
Key Technology Research of Distribution Automation System Based on Cloud Architecture

China's economic development has higher requirements for the power supply capability and reliability of distribution network. At present, the management scope of distribution automation system cannot cover the whole distribution network and many regional electric companies cannot manage the operation state of distribution network through the existing distribution automation system, which restricts the development of distribution network construction. It is necessary to develop a new system construction scheme to cope with the different data capacity and function requirements of distribution networks in different cities. This paper proposes a technical scheme of main station of distribution automation system based on cloud architecture in aspects of system architecture, elastic data processing, safe access of distribution terminals and optimal operation control. With the distributed collaboration between core cloud and regional cloud as well as data fragmentation parallel processing technology, the problem of massive access and application of distribution network will be solved.
Bodies, Buses and Permits: Palestinians Navigating Care

All Palestinian bodies, male and female, are subject to and targeted by the occupying state. Drawing on participatory observation conducted in the West Bank, this essay focuses on how gender and occupation intersect in men’s access to care and seeks to realign feminist practice to examine the ways in which all bodies are subject to the intersections of gender, race, class and power. It shows the lived realities of Palestinian everyday life that are occluded when one considers only the “legal formalities” Israel has put in place, which seem to allow for access to certain spaces for sick bodies, but in fact hinder or deny every attempt to do so. Finally, I conclude with some reflections on how the current Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement is one means of addressing the forms of power exercised over Palestinian bodies living under occupation.
A lungful of transcription factors

The formation of the respiratory tract represents an evolutionary process critical to terrestrial adaptationperhaps driven by the increasing need for efficient gas-exchange as vertebrates have become larger and colonized increasingly warm and dry habitats. The lung appeared relatively late in vertebrate evolution; not surprisingly, therefore, its structure is highly conserved among vertebrates as divergent as fish and mammals. It consists of a series of branched tubules (the trachea, bronchi and bronchioles) that conduct air from the pharynx to a gas-exchange area in terminal, bud-like structures, called alveoli (Fig. 1). Alveoli are vascularized by a dense capillary network that facilitates the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the alveolar air spaces and the pulmonary vasculature. As such, the lung represents a remarkable organ in which large volumes of gas and material are efficiently and safely exchanged.
AP180 Couples Protein Retrieval to Clathrin‐Mediated Endocytosis of Synaptic Vesicles

How clathrin-mediated endocytosis (CME) retrieves vesicle proteins into newly formed synaptic vesicles (SVs) remains a major puzzle. Besides its roles in stimulating clathrin-coated vesicle formation and regulating SV size, the clathrin assembly protein AP180 has been identified as a key player in retrieving SV proteins. The mechanisms by which AP180 recruits SV proteins are not fully understood. Here, we show that following acute inactivation of AP180 in Drosophila, SV recycling is severely impaired at the larval neuromuscular synapse based on analyses of FM 1-43 uptake and synaptic ultrastructure. More dramatically, AP180 activity is important to maintain the integrity of SV protein complexes at the plasma membrane during endocytosis. These observations suggest that AP180 normally clusters SV proteins together during recycling. Consistent with this notion, SV protein composition and distribution are altered in AP180 mutant flies. Finally, AP180 co-immunoprecipitates with SV proteins, including the vesicular glutamate transporter and neuronal synaptobrevin. These results reveal a new mode by which AP180 couples protein retrieval to CME of SVs. AP180 is also genetically linked to Alzheimer's disease. Hence, the findings of this study may provide new mechanistic insight into the role of AP180 dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease.
A technical strategy for mixed analog-digital customs

Three key system designers' requirements for custom mixed analog-digital ICs are identified, and strategies for meeting them involving process, simulation, and cell libraries are given. Examples of circuits using a suitable process and cell library are shown. A complex data acquisition system implemented using (a) standard components and (b) two mixed analog-digital custom ICs is illustrated. The manufacturing advantages of the second solution are self-evident. >
Max-Min Length-Energy-Constrained Routing in Wireless Sensor Networks

We consider the problem of inter-cluster routing between cluster heads via intermediate sensor nodes in a hierarchical sensor network. Sensor nodes having limited and unreplenishable power resources, both path length and path energy cost are important metrics affecting sensor lifetime. In this paper, we model the formation of length and energy constrained paths using a game theoretic paradigm. The Nash equilibrium of our routing game corresponds to the optimal length-energy-constrained (LEC) path. We show that this path can be computed in polynomial time in sensor networks operating under a geographic routing regime. We then define a simpler team version of this routing game and propose a distributed nearly-stateless energy efficient inter-cluster routing protocol that finds optimal routes. This protocol balances energy consumption across the network by periodically determining a new optimal path consistent with associated energy distributions. Simulation results testify to the effectiveness of the protocol in producing a longer network lifetime.
Symbolic interactionism: a framework for the care of parents of preterm infants.

Abstract Because of stressors surrounding preterm birth, parents can be expected to have difficulty in early interactions with their preterm infants. Care givers who work with preterm infants and their parents can positively affect the early parental experiences of these mothers and fathers. If care gives are consciously guided by a conceptual model, therapeutic care for distressed parents is more likely to be provided. A logical framework, such as symbolic interactionism, helps care givers to proceed systematically in assessing parental behaviors, in intervening appropriately, and in evaluating both the process and outcome of the care. Selected aspects of the symbolic interaction model are described in this article and applied to the care of parents of preterm infants.
TFTR-MG uprate, analysis and performance

The energy requirement for TFTR operation at 5.2 Tesla is 4.5 GJ, 950 MVA provided by two 13.8 kV flywheel generators. To achieve tokamak fields beyond 5.2 Tesla (up to 6.0 Tesla), the MG system must be uprated to 1300 MVA, 15.0 kV and store 4.8 GJ of energy. The uprate is attainable by exploiting existing excess capacity and accepting reduced life. Considerations for the MG uprate include the number, level, duration, repetition rate of uprated pulses, and the expected life reduction. The mechanical degradation of the equipment due to speed overcurrent and over voltage was analyzed, as well as the deterioration of insulation due to thermal and mechanical stresses. This paper describes the requirements, and analysis and includes data of MG performance above rating.
Evolution of O stars and the WR connection

The stellar wind mass loss rates of at least some single Of type stars appear to be sufficient to remove much if not all of the hydrogen-rich envelope such that nuclear processed material is observed at the surface. This highly evolved state can then be naturally associated with classic Population I WR stars that have properties of high luminosity for their mass, helium enriched composition, and nitrogen or carbon enhanced abundances. If stellar wind mass loss is the dominant process involved in this evolutionary scenario, then stars with properties intermediate between Of and WR types should exist. The stellar parameters of luminosity, temperature, mass and composition are briefly reviewed for both types. All late WN stars so far observed are relatively luminous like Of stars, and also contain hydrogen. All early WN stars, and WC stars, are relatively faint and contain little or no hydrogen. The late WN stars seem to have the intermediate properties required if a stellar wind is the dominant mass loss mechanism that transforms an Of star to a WR type.
Engine and Constant Volume Bomb Studies of Diesel ignition and Combustion

The importance of the ignition process is reflected in the fact that the only combustion property that is specified for diesel fuel is the ignition delay time as indicated by the cetane number. The objective of the work described in this paper was to determine the relationship between the ignition process as it occurs in an actual engine, to ignition in a constant volume combustion bomb. The ultimate goal is to develop a new procedure for rating the ignition and combustion quality of fuels for diesel engines. The short-term goal, and an interim step in the development effort, is to establish the bomb approach for determining cetane number.
Habit: History of the Concept

This article examines aspects of the history of the concept of habit in Western social thought. As an expression, the concept of habit has generally referred to a disposition to act as one has previously acted, whether in regard to simple behaviors, more complex forms of conduct, or broader characterological tendencies (habitus). Among social thinkers who have used the concept, habit has generally been applied to recurrent forms of moral, economic, political, and religious conduct insofar as these occur more or less automatically, thus differing from reflective forms of human action that entail the deliberative selection of means and ends by normative standards. While the history of the concept of habit has been roughly coextensive with the entirety of Western intellectual history, four phases are distinguished. The first phase, running from antiquity to the early 1800s, was marked by the frequent discussion of the role and significance of habit by thinkers ranging from Aristotle to the philosophers of the Enlightenment. The second phase, extending from the mid-nineteenth to the early twentieth century, was characterized by two contending developments. One of these was the invocation of the concept of habit by a great many European and American social theorists, including Emile Durkheim and Max Weber, and the use of the concept, in tandem with models of reflective action, to analyze human conduct in the social world. The second development in this period was the effort on the part of natural scientists to restrict habit to more elementary human and subhuman behaviors. The third phase, beginning roughly in the late 1910s, saw the successful appropriation of habit, narrowly conceived, by behaviorist psychologists and, in a strong countermovement, the abandonment of the concept by a majority of European and American social thinkers, who for the next half century conceptualized all human conduct exclusively in reflective terms. The fourth phase, extending from the early 1980s to the present time, has witnessed steps by social theorists and empirical researchers to revive and elaborate the concept of habit and to examine the relationship between habitual and reflective forms of human action.
The Effect of Rainfall on the Abundance of Tarnished Plant Bug Nymphs [Lygus lineolaris (Palisot)] in Alfalfa Fields

Abstract Rainfall has generally been overlooked as a regulator of insect population size, especially for mirids (Hemiptera). During a 13-year field study in northwestern New Jersey, total May-June rainfall ranged from 6.5 to 10.7 inches (165–272mm). The highest rainfall reduced first generation nymphs of the tarnished plant bug, Lygus lineolaris (Palisot) (Miridae), in alfalfa by 50%. This reduction was likely mechanical (raindrops knocking the mirids off the plants) rather than biotic, because infections by nematodes and a fungus disease were not significantly increased. The rainfall-reduced mirid populations also had less mortality by the introduced parasite Peristenus digoneutis Loan (Braconidae), probably a result of the lower host density (density dependence). Conversely, in low-rainfall years there were more tarnished plant bugs, and parasitism rates were doubled, so the two mortality factors were complimentary. Rainfall may also be responsible for differences in lygus numbers between regions. Lygus...
Copper Deficiency Decreases Plasma Homocysteine in Rats

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of copper deficiency on key aspects of homocysteine metabolism that involve methionine recycling and transsulfuration. Male weanling Sprague-Dawley rats were fed AIN-93G-based diets containing <1 or approximately 6 mg Cu/kg. After 6 wk (Expt. 1) and 4 wk (Expt. 2) we found that plasma homocysteine was significantly decreased, and plasma glutathione significantly increased, in rats fed the low-Cu diet. Real-time RT-PCR was used to determine the expression of the subunits of glutamate-cysteine ligase (Gcl) in liver that catalyzes the rate-limiting step in glutathione biosynthesis. The expression of Gclc, the catalytic subunit of Gcl, was upregulated by Cu deficiency; Gclm, the modifier subunit, was not affected. Hepatic betaine-homocysteine methyltransferase (Bhmt), which catalyzes one of the two ways that homocysteine can be remethylated to methionine, was downregulated by Cu deficiency. Because Cu deficiency results in upregulation of Gclc and an increase in the biosynthesis of glutathione, it is plausible that the net flux of homocysteine through the transsulfuration pathway is increased. Furthermore, if Bhmt is downregulated, less homocysteine is available for remethylation (methionine recycling) and more is then available to irreversibly enter the transsulfuration pathway where it is lost. The net effect of increased Gclc and decreased Bhmt would be a decrease in homocysteine as a result of Cu deficiency.
Person, situation, and person-by-situation interaction components in person perception

The hypothesis that people store situation and person-by-situation interaction information as well as trait information about one another's behavior was tested by administering modified S-R Inventories of Anxiousness and Hostility to 54 male and 59 female undergraduates. Subjects rated the strength of affect that would be evoked by a series of situations in the two same-sex college students whom they knew best, the best-known opposite-sex person, a casually known same-sex person, and the “average college student.” Indices were constructed to measure the extent of (a) perceived average differences among people (traits), (b)perceived average differences over situations, and (c) perceived person-by-situation interaction. Analyses of variance showed that: (a) the ratings of the two best-known same-sex persons and the best-known opposite-sex person contained more interactive information than did the ratings of a casually known person and (b) females perceived more situational variability in the behavior of their own sex than did males. The amount of perceived person-by-situation interaction did not differ as a function of sex of rater or affect to be rated. It was concluded that the naive psychologist, like many professional psychologists, is an interactionist.
Formulations of impedance surfaces coated with dielectric materials

Abstract Different surface-integral equations are presented for characterizing the electromagnetic scattering from a surface-impedance object coated with dielectric materials. The impedance boundary condition is applied on the impedance surface and the exact boundary condition is applied on the dielectric surface. The resulting integral equations are solved for bodies of revolution using the method of moments. The numerical results are compared with the exact solution for a sphere. Other geometries are considered and their results are verified by comparing results of the numerical solutions which were obtained using different formulations. The internal resonance problem is examined.
Virus-induced alterations in homeostasis: alteration in differentiated functions of infected cells in vivo

The noncytopathic lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus displays a tropism for the anterior lobe of the murine pituitary gland. Virus replicates in cells that make growth hormone. This results in a diminished synthesis of growth hormone with a concomitant clinical picture of retarded growth and hypoglycemia. However, there is no morphologic evidence of either cell necrosis or inflammation in the anterior lobe of the pituitary. Hence, during infection in vivo, a noncytopathic virus may turn off the "differentiation" or "luxury" function of a cell while not killing that cell (loss of vital function). This is turn can disrupt homeostasis and cause disease. This model illustrates a novel way whereby viruses may cause disease.
Incremental online PCA for automatic motion learning of eigen behaviour

This paper presents an online learning framework for the behaviour of an articulated body by capturing its motion using real-time video. In our proposed framework, supervised learning is first utilised during an offline learning phase for small instances using principal component analysis (PCA); then we apply a new incremental PCA technique during an online learning phase. Rather than storing all the previous instances, our online method just keeps the eigenspace and reconstructs the space using only the new instance. We can add numerical new training instances while maintaining the reasonable dimensions. The experimental results demonstrate the feasibility and merits.
Survival curve estimation with dependent left truncated data using Cox's model

The Kaplan-Meier and closely related Lynden-Bell estimators are used to provide nonparametric estimation of the distribution of a left-truncated random variable. These estimators assume that the left-truncation variable is independent of the time-to-event. This paper proposes a semiparametric method for estimating the marginal distribution of the time-to-event that does not require independence. It models the conditional distribution of the time-to-event given the truncation variable using Cox's model for left truncated data, and uses inverse probability weighting. We report the results of simulations and illustrate the method using a survival study.
Changes in brain activation following psychotherapy for youth with mood dysregulation at familial risk for bipolar disorder

Abstract Background Psychotherapy for youth with mood dysregulation can help stabilize mood and improve functioning, but the neural mechanisms of this improvement are not known. In this study we investigated the changes in brain activation underlying improvement in mood symptoms. Methods Twenty-four subjects (ages 13–17) participated: 12 patients with clinically significant symptoms of depression and/or mania, and 12 healthy comparison subjects (HC) matched for age and sex. All subjects completed functional magnetic resonance imaging while viewing facial expressions. The patients then received up to 4 months of psychotherapy and were rescanned at end of treatment. Whole brain differences between patient and control groups were assessed with a voxel-wise analysis. Changes in activation from pre- to post-treatment within the patient group were tested for correlation with changes in mood symptoms. Results At baseline the patient group had hypoactivation in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) and hyperactivation in the posterior cingulate cortex compared to the HC group. Between pre- and post-treatment activation increased in the DLPFC and decreased in the amygdala. Increases in DLPFC activation were significantly correlated with improvement in mania symptoms. Discussion Enhancement of frontal executive control brain regions may underlie improvement in mood dysregulation in pediatric patients at familial risk for bipolar disorder.
Attachment, masculinity, and self-control A theory of male crime rates

Attachment theory and research from developmental psychology suggest that disruptions in attachments to primary caregivers in early childhood have long-term negative consequences. Scholars in the emerging field of men’s studies argue that boys disproportionately experience these disruptions of early attachment and that these disruptions are causally related to elements of what is often described as the masculine gender role. These two bodies of theory and research are combined with Gottfredson and Hirschi’s (1990) theory of low self-control in a new theory of disproportionate male offending.
Highly sensitive and specific detection of viable Escherichia coli in drinking water.

A highly sensitive and specific assay method was developed for the detection of viable Escherichia coli as an indicator organism in water, using nucleic acid sequence-based amplification (NASBA) and electrochemiluminescence (ECL) analysis. Viable E. coli were identified via a 200-nt-long target sequence from mRNA (clpB) coding for a heat shock protein. In the detection assay, a heat shock was applied to the cells prior to disruption to induce the synthesis of clpB mRNA and the mRNA was extracted, purified, and finally amplified using NASBA. The amplified mRNA was quantified with an ECL detection system after hybridization with specific DNA probes. Several disruption methods were investigated to maximize total RNA extracted from viable cells. Optimization was also carried out regarding the design of NASBA primer pairs and detection probes, as well as reaction and detection conditions. Finally, the assay was tested regarding sensitivity and specificity. Analysis of samples revealed that as few as 40 E. coli cells/mL can be detected, with no false positive signals resulting from other microorganisms or nonviable E. coli cells. Also, it was shown that a quantification of E. coli cells was possible with our assay method.
Combined analysis of inelastic electron-scattering and muonic-atom hyperfine-splitting data: An application to 152Sm

Abstract We explore a method for combined analysis of inelastic electron-scattering data and muonic quadrupole hyperfine-splitting measurements. The method, applied here to 152 Sm, provides an accurate normalization for (e, e′) data, a precise value for B (E2; 0 + → 2 + ), and shows that the interpretation of the monopole (elastic) and quadrupole (inelastic) data from both experiments is consistent at the present level of experimental accuracy.
Online Resources for Genomic Analysis Using High-Throughput Sequencing

Abstract The availability of high-throughput sequencing has created enormous possibilities for scientific discovery. However, the massive amount of data being generated has resulted in a severe informatics bottleneck. A large number of tools exist for analyzing next-generation sequencing (NGS) data, yet often there remains a disconnect between these research tools and the ability of many researchers to use them. As a consequence, several online resources and communities have been developed to assist researchers with both the management and the analysis of sequencing data sets. Here we describe the use and applications of common file formats for coding and storing genomic data, consider several web-accessible open-source resources for the visualization and analysis of NGS data, and provide examples of typical analyses with links to further detailed exercises.
A reflectance model for non-contact mapping of venous oxygen saturation using a CCD camera

Abstract A method of non-contact mapping of venous oxygen saturation (SvO 2 ) is presented. A CCD camera is used to image skin tissue illuminated alternately by a red (660 nm) and an infrared (800 nm) LED light source. Low cuff pressures of 30–40 mmHg are applied to induce a venous blood volume change with negligible change in the arterial blood volume. A hybrid model combining the Beer–Lambert law and the light diffusion model is developed and used to convert the change in the light intensity to the change in skin tissue absorption coefficient. A simulation study incorporating the full light diffusion model is used to verify the hybrid model and to correct a calculation bias. SvO 2 in the fingers, palm, and forearm for five volunteers are presented and compared with results in the published literature. Two-dimensional maps of venous oxygen saturation are given for the three anatomical regions.
The Use of Folk Remedies Among Children in an Urban Black Community: Remedies for Fever, Colic, and Teething

Background. Folk remedy use is universal, occurring in all cultures. Folk remedies have been and still are relied on in the black community. In this study, folk remedies refer to herbs, over-the-counter medications, and items traditionally used for cooking that are used to treat a variety of ailments. Objective. To identify folk remedies used to treat fever, colic, and teething among black children in Detroit, Michigan. Methods. Structured interviews were conducted with caregivers of healthy black children Results. One hundred seven caregivers agreed to participate. All participants were familiar with the use of folk remedies. Most caregivers learned of these remedies from their mothers or grandmothers. Older parents were more likely to use folk remedies, but there was no difference in remedy use among different levels of maternal education. Conclusions. The knowledge and use of folk remedies were active in this black community. Their use seems to be cultural, rather than attributable to decreased access to health care. Physicians should be aware of these remedies, to educate families about remedies that may be harmful. Most remedies used pose no threat to health. In some cases, remedies may be blended with traditional medical treatments to ensure better patient compliance.
Microsaccades and the Velocity-Amplitude Relationship for Saccadic Eye Movements

The maximum velocities of microsaccades (flicks) are an increasing function of amplitude of movement. Measured velocities fall on the extrapolation of the curve of maximum velocity versus amplitude for voluntary saccades and involuntary corrective saccades. Hence all these movements are produced by a common physiological system, or the characteristics of the movements are determined by a single dynamically limiting element.
The Effect of Ca-Rich Deposits on the High Temperature Degradation of Coated and Uncoated Superalloys

When gas turbines use alternate fuels, such as syngas derived from coal, ash from the fuels can deposit on turbine hardware. These deposits can cause substantial corrosion of the hardware which may have significantly different characteristics than Type I and Type II hot corrosion. The composition of the ash is determined by the mineral matter in coals, which often have kaolinite (Al2O3·2SiO2·2H2O), pyrites (FeS2), and calcites (CaCO3) as major components. This study was directed at degradation produced by CaO and CaSO4 and comparing it with the attack induced by Na2SO4 deposits. The alloys GTD 111, IN 738, and Rene N5, as well as these alloys coated with CoNiCrAlY and platinum aluminide, were exposed to conditions relevant to corrosion induced using alternative fuels. The initial test conditions involved a number of deposits including Na2SO4, CaO, and CaSO4 in dry and wet (pH2O = 10.1 kPa, 0.1 atm) air at 950oC. The most severe degradation occurred with CaO deposits. Specimens of the three alloys were subsequently exposed to cyclic oxidation conditions at 950oC with deposits of CaO in dry and wet air. All three alloys were attacked more severely when CaO deposits were present and this attack became even more severe in wet compared to dry air. However, the increase in attack caused by the presence of water vapor was small compared to the attack caused by the CaO deposits. The degradation induced via CaO deposits caused more severe degradation of Rene N5 compared to GTD 111 and IN 738. Tests using CaO deposits and cyclic oxidation conditions at 950oC in dry and wet air were also performed for the two coatings on the three alloy substrates. Both coatings were significantly degraded by attack induced by the CaO deposits. No effect of the alloy substrates on coating performance was apparent. Mechanisms for the effects of Ca-rich deposits on superalloy and coating degradation are discussed.
Effects of Severity of Accident, Intent, and "Alcoholism is a Disease" Excuse on Judgments of a Drunk Driver

One hundred fifty-five women and 122 men read scenarios of an accident caused by a male drunk driver. The severity of the accident was either high (death) or low (monetary damage). In addition, the driver either expressed or denied intent (he admitted or denied knowing he was drunk before deciding to drive) and the driver either accepted responsibility for the accident or used the excuse that alcoholism is a disease beyond his control. On trait ratings, the driver was evaluated as being more reckless and as feeling greater emotion when the accident was severe. The driver who used the "alcoholism is a disease" excuse was evaluated as being less sincere and more reckless than the driver who accepted responsibility for the accident. On attributional ratings, the driver was rated as deserving greater punishment when the accident was severe. On sanctions, only severity of the accident influenced recommended fines and prison sentences for the driver. This study was consistent with previous research showing that recommended punishment for a drunk driver who caused an accident is primarily a function of accident severity.
Impact of the extratropical Pacific on equatorial variability

An ocean general circulation model (OGCM) is used with a data assimilation routine to explore how the higher latitudes in the Pacific affect equatorial variability. The assimilation of observed temperature data in the extratropical regions generates decadal variability on the equator, indicating that the subsurface thermal structure of the tropics may be modulated by low-frequency variability in the higher latitudes. While preliminary analyses show that midlatitude temperature anomalies can be advected to the subtropics along isopycnal surfaces, it is also demonstrated that a wave mechanism may be one of the dominant physical processes by which information is carried from the higher latitudes to the equatorial region.
Acute technical feasibility of an endoscopic duodenal-jejunal bypass sleeve in a porcine model: a potentially novel treatment for obesity and type 2 diabetes

The concept of endoluminal therapy for various disease states has gained significant attention. This report describes the authors’ initial animal experience with a novel endoscopic duodenal-jejunal bypass sleeve (DJBS) in a porcine model. The DJBS consists of an implant delivered endoscopically, anchored in the proximal duodenum, and extended into the jejunum. This device aims to mimic the intestinal bypass effects of Roux-en-y gastric bypass without the need for stapling or anastomosis and may offer novel therapeutic benefit for patients with obesity, type 2 diabetes, or both. Five DJBS devices were delivered in five domestic, female Yorkshire pigs. The devices were delivered and retrieved the same day and left in situ for less than 1 h. The animals were kept alive for 4 days after explantation for evaluation of their general health after the procedure. After they were killed, gastric, duodenal, and jejunal tissues were examined and harvested for histologic assessment of any acute device or procedure-related effects. Delivery of the implant took an average of 18 min (range, 10–38 min) and required an average fluoroscopy time of 8.1 min (range, 3.8–16.6 min). Retrievals were performed in an average of 7.4 min (range, 5–9 min) using fluoroscopy for an average of 2.3 min (range, 1.3–4.5 min). Followed for 4 days after explantation, the animals were normal and healthy. There were no pathologic findings in the explanted tissue. The DJBS can be safely deployed and retrieved endoscopically. Future long-term survival studies are warranted to help define the role of promising technology.
A Test of the Biographical Availability Argument for Gender Differences in Environmental Behaviors

Compared with men, women often express stronger proenvironmental attitudes and values and more frequently engage in private environmental behaviors (e.g., recycling), but not in public environmenta...
An Anticipatory Model of Cavitation

The Anticipatory System (AS) formalism developed by Robert Rosen provides some insight into the problem of embedding intelligent behavior in machines. AS emulates the anticipatory behavior of biological systems. AS bases its behavior on its expectations about the near future and those expectations are modified as the system gains experience. The expectation is based on an internal model that is drawn from an appeal to physical reality. To be adaptive, the model must be able to update itself. To be practical, the model must run faster than real-time. The need for a physical model and the requirement that the model execute at extreme speeds, has held back the application of AS to practical problems. Two recent advances make it possible to consider the use of AS for practical intelligent sensors. First, advances in transducer technology make it possible to obtain previously unavailable data from which a model can be derived. For example, acoustic emissions (AE) can be fed into a Bayesian system identifier that enables the separation of a weak characterizing signal, such as the signature of pump cavitation precursors, from a strong masking signal, such as a pump vibration feature. The second advance is the development of extremely fast, but inexpensive, digital signal processing hardware on which it is possible to run an adaptive Bayesian-derived model faster than real-time. This paper reports the investigation of an AS using a model of cavitation based on hydrodynamic principles and Bayesian analysis of data from high-performance AE sensors.