cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Hybrid conjugated polymer/magnetic nanoparticle composite nanofibers through cooperative non-covalent interactions

Hybrid organic–inorganic composites possessing both electronic and magnetic properties are promising materials for a wide range of applications. Controlled and ordered arrangement of the organic and inorganic components is key for synergistic cooperation toward desired functions. In this work, we report the self-assemblies of core–shell composite nanofibers from conjugated block copolymers and magnetic nanoparticles through the cooperation of orthogonal non-covalent interactions. We show that well-defined core–shell conjugated polymer nanofibers can be obtained through solvent induced self-assembly and polymer crystallization, while hydroxy and pyridine functional groups located at the shell of nanofibers can immobilize magnetic nanoparticles via hydrogen bonding and coordination interactions. These precisely arranged nanostructures possess electronic properties intrinsic to the polymers and are simultaneously responsive to external magnetic fields. We applied these composite nanofibers in organic solar cells and found that these non-covalent interactions led to controlled thin film morphologies containing uniformly dispersed nanoparticles, although high loadings of these inorganic components negatively impact device performance. Our methodology is general and can be utilized to control the spatial distribution of functionalized organic/inorganic building blocks, and the magnetic responsiveness and optoelectronic activities of these nanostructures may lead to new opportunities in energy and electronic applications.
What Occupational Socialization Factors Influence Preservice Teachers to Possess Fitness Orientations

Purpose: To investigate the existence of fitness orientations among preservice teachers (PTs) and to identify what has influenced these orientations. Methods: The participants were 14 undergraduate PTs enrolled in a physical education teacher education games methods course in the Northeast United States. Qualitative data were collected through autobiographical essays, orientation of self-identification diagrams, and semistructured interviews. NVivo 11 Pro (QSR International, Burlington, MA) software package was employed to analyze data using analytic induction and constant comparison techniques. Results: Twelve PTs possessed moderate (n = 9) or hardcore (n = 3) fitness orientations. Orientations were influenced by three themes: (a) declining physical education quality, (b) elite sport fitness goals, and (c) former head sports coaches and/or current strength and conditioning coaches. Discussion: Faculty must understand the diverse orientation combinations that PTs can now possess and appreciate the acculturation and professional socialization factors that influence and reinforce the development of these orientations.
RASopathies: A significant cause of polyhydramnios?

Objective The aim of the study is to determine the prevalence of RASopathies in a polyhydramnios cohort selected by postnatal medical genetics evaluation. Methods In this retrospective study, we reviewed 622 pregnancies with polyhydramnios seen at Lucile Packard Children's Hospital between 2008-2017. The findings from 131 cases evaluated by Medical Genetics were included in our final analysis. Genetic testing information was extracted to determine the rate of chromosomal or single gene conditions focusing on the RASopathies. Additional variables collected were: maternal characteristics, ultrasound findings, and the severity and timing of diagnosis of polyhydramnios. Results Postnatal genetic testing or clinical examination identified a genetic disorder in 63 (48.1%) cases, more than half (n=33) of which had a single gene condition. Postnatal testing revealed an underlying RASopathy in 15 (11.5%) cases. An underlying RASopathy was significantly associated with the severity and timing of polyhydramnios (p Conclusion Focusing on a selected cohort postnatally evaluated by Medical Genetics, our study identified a chromosomal or genetic disorder in almost half of pregnancies complicated by polyhydramnios. Specifically, an underlying RASopathy was found in 11.5% of cases with 13/15 of these cases having additional ultrasound findings. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Endothelial DLC1 is dispensable for liver and kidney function in mice

Abstract DLC1 is a focal adhesion molecule that regulates cell polarity, proliferation, migration, and survival. DLC1 functions as a tumor suppressor and its expression is often down-regulated in various malignant neoplasms of epithelial origin. Recent studies have suggested that lack of DLC1 in endothelial cells may contribute to the development of angiosarcoma, and that DLC1 mutations have been identified in patients with nephrotic syndrome, a disease mainly due to leaky glomerular filtration barriers. To demonstrate whether lack of endothelial DLC1 induces angiosarcoma and/or damages glomerular capillaries leading to nephrotic syndrome, we have extended our analyses on endothelial cell-specific DLC1 knockout mice with focuses on their liver and kidney function. Mice were monitored up to 24 months of age. However, no histological or clinical difference was found between DLC1 knockout and wild type mice, indicating that lack of endothelial DLC1 alone does not compromise kidney and liver function in mice.
‘Lower-income college student adjustments to COVID-19’

Using a survey of mostly low-income upperclassmen at a large public institution, we focus on the perspective of young adults regarding financial decision-making during the COVID-19 pandemic. We fin...
Compensation for managers with career concerns: the role of stock options in optimal contracts

Abstract We study the problem of compensating a manager whose career concerns affect his investment strategy. We consider contracts that include cash, shares, and call options, focusing on the role of options in aligning incentives. We find that managers are optimally paid in cash, supplemented by a small amount of call options; shares are excluded. The options are struck at-the-money, consistent with the near-uniform practice of compensation committees. The convexity of option payoffs helps to overcome managerial conservatism, although a nontrivial underinvestment problem persists. Our model yields several testable implications regarding cross-sectional variation in the size of option grants and pay-for-performance sensitivity.
Music, Dance, Festivals, and Associations

This chapter studies Latin American and Spanish music, dance, festivals, and cultural associations in Japan. This chapter offers a brief review of how flamenco, tango, and salsa arrived in Japan to stay and how Spanish speakers have promoted the development of these genres even more since the early 1990s. Moreover, this chapter shows how Latin music is produced in Japan and provides an overview of groups dedicated to bolero, tropical music, and pop, including reggaeton. As music is intimately connected with the festivals celebrated in Japan, this chapter includes a study of major Latin American and Spanish festivals as well as the cultural associations that organize and promote them. The chapter demonstrates the popularity of Latin music and culture both within Latin communities as a way for people to keep ties to their homeland and among Spanish-speaking Japanese, who have in many ways adopted Latin music as their own.
What Explains Geographic Variation in Corporate Investment

We show that institutions can explain geographic concentration over and above agglomerative forces. This paper uses within country variation in institutional quality, combined with a local identification approach and instrumental variable strategy to explain spatial differences in investment. We use direct (indirect) British rule as proxies for areas with low (high) institutional quality. Institutions can explain 13% of total geographic variation in investment. Moreover, investment is 8-10% lower in areas with low institutional quality. Differences in institutional quality manifest as greater court delays, impeding contractual claims, property rights, and dispute resolution, thereby decreasing investment and increasing project abandonment.
Computational modeling of unphosphorylated CtrA:Cori binding in the Caulobacter cell cycle

SUMMARY In the alpha-proteobacterium, Caulobacter crescentus, phosphorylated CtrA (CtrA∼P), a master regulatory protein, binds directly to the chromosome origin (Cori) to inhibit DNA replication. Using a mathematical model of CtrA binding at Cori site [d], we provide computational evidence that CtrAU can displace CtrA∼P from Cori at the G1-S transition. Investigation of this interaction within a detailed model of the C. crescentus cell cycle suggests that CckA phosphatase may clear Cori of CtrA∼P by altering the [CtrAU]/[CtrA∼P] ratio rather than by completely depleting CtrA∼P. Model analysis reveals that the mechanism allows for a speedier transition into S phase, stabilizes the timing of chromosome replication under fluctuating rates of CtrA proteolysis and may contribute to the viability of numerous mutant strains. Overall, these results suggest that CtrAU enhances the robustness of chromosome replication. More generally, our proposed regulation of CtrA:Cori dynamics may represent a novel motif for molecular signaling in cell physiology.
Structural Changes in Romanian Farm Management and their Impact on Economic Performances

Abstract The main socio-economic tendencies of farm management in the Romanian agriculture in recent years reveal some important structural changes: acceleration of the transfer of land resource operation to younger managers; diminution of the consumption of labour force in the Romanian agriculture; increased productivity of labour involved in agricultural activities. The farming performance differs greatly between individual farms due to the complexity of Romanian farming system and farm structures. Generally speaking, the young farmers perform better than the older ones, and the farm economic performance, evaluated in terms of labour productivity and land resources, is greater as far as the farm managers’ agricultural training level increases.
A Culture of Survivors: SlutWalk, Third Culture, and New Media Communication

Drawing from the literature in Intercultural and New Media Studies INMS, this study explores the SlutWalk social movement, a transnational movement of protest marches. The author conducted interviews with seven SlutWalk organizers from various cities in the United States to understand what culture SlutWalk organizers are fostering through their work and the role of new media communication in their organizational efforts. Results of the interpretative analysis suggest that although SlutWalk organizers foster a survivor culture through activities consistent with intercultural dialogue and third culture building, their use of various social media outlets might be motivated by various definitions of localized need. In addition, organizers highlight a tension between prioritizing more global survivor experiences over individual experiences with sexual assault and reveal the possibility for new media communication to enable anti-social cultural interactions. These findings contribute to the continued development of theorizing in INMS related to virtual third culture and continued scholarship exploring the intersections between new media and intercultural communication.
Psychological Variables Associated with Pain Perceptions Among Individuals with Chronic Spinal Cord Injury Pain

Structural equation modeling was used to examine the relationships between selected psychological variables and pain perceptions in 103 individuals experiencing chronic pain following traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI). Previous studies have suggested strong relationships between psychological variables and chronic SCI pain, but further delineation of such relationships is needed in order ultimately to develop more effective pain management strategies for individuals afflicted with such pain. Anger was found to be significantly related to perceptions of pain (p < .05), but neither guilt nor anger suppression was significantly associated with perceived pain. Internal health locus of control was associated with decreased pain perceptions (p < .05), but there was no significant relationship between internal health locus of control and anger. Punishing responses from significant others to pain complaints were related to feelings of guilt (p < .05) and perceived pain (p < .05), but this relationship was not mediated by guilt.
Integrated analysis of preclinical data to support the design of the first in man study of LY2181308, a second generation antisense oligonucleotide

WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN ABOUT THIS SUBJECT • The plasma pharmacokinetics (PK) of second generation antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) are fairly well understood with well conserved pharmacokinetic properties across species, moderate clearance and extensive volume of distribution. WHAT THIS STUDY ADDS • The tissue distribution and exposure and the pharmacodynamic (PD) or target inhibition following ASO administration are not yet well understood leading to still fairly empiric early clinical development strategies. This paper illustrates how preclinical PK and PD data were used to predict more accurately the ASO tissue exposure in humans and to support the early clinical development strategy. AIMS To predict the concentration and target inhibition profiles of the survivin inhibitor antisense oligonucleotide LY2181308 in humans. METHODS An indirect pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) model was built to predict the inhibition of survivin mRNA and protein in humans following LY2181308 dosing. Plasma and tissue PK data from cynomolgus monkeys were analyzed by non-linear mixed effect modelling techniques. Human PK parameters were predicted using allometric scaling. Assumptions about the pharmacodynamic parameters were made based upon the target and tumour growth inhibition data from mouse xenograft models. This enabled the prediction of the clinical PK/PD profiles. RESULTS Following a 750 mg dose, LY2181308 tumour concentrations ranging from 18.8 to 54 µg g−1 were predicted to lead to 50 to 90% target inhibition. In humans, LY2181308 tumour concentrations from 13.9 to 52.8 µg g−1 (n = 4, LY2181308 750 mg) were observed associated with a median survivin mRNA and protein inhibition of 20% ± 34 (SD) (n = 9) and 23% ± 63 (SD) (n = 10), respectively. The human PK parameters were adequately estimated: central Vd, 4.09 l (90% CI, 3.6, 4.95), distribution clearances, 2.54 (2.36, 2.71), 0.0608 (0.033, 0.6) and 1.67 (1.07, 2.00) l h−1, peripheral Vds, 25 900 (19 070, 37 200), 0.936 (0.745, 2.07) and 2.51 (1.01, 2.922) l, mean elimination clearance 23.1 l h−1 (5.6, 33.4) and mean terminal half-life, 32.7 days (range 22–52 days). CONCLUSION The model reasonably predicted LY2181308 PK in humans. Overall, the integration of preclinical PK/PD data enabled to appropriately predict dose and dosing regimen of LY2181308 in humans with pharmacologically relevant survivin inhibition achieved at 750 mg.
Development of a preliminary pediatric tracheal growth model from magnetic resonance images

Objectives/Hypothesis To develop a growth model of the minimum cross-sectional area of the normal pediatric trachea with measurements from magnetic resonance images (MRIs) to supplement the clinical criteria used to determine if a child with tracheal stenosis needs surgery. Study Design Retrospective imaging review. Methods A total of 81 patients were imaged for a variety of clinical reasons and declared to have normal tracheas fully visible in their T1 magnetic resonance image. Regression analysis was used to identify any contribution that age, gender, and z scores for height and weight have in predicting the minimum cross-sectional area of the trachea. Results The best-fit model for minimum cross-sectional area is: Area = −0.00451*age4 + 0.177*age3− 2.05*age2 + 12.6*age + 8.02 (area in mm2 and age in years). Gender and z scores for height and weight did not provide any additional explanation of variance in tracheal size. Conclusions Our study demonstrates the potential to create a growth model of the normal trachea based on cross-sectional area of the trachea using MRIs. Even with the relatively small number of patients used to build it, the model has demonstrated some ability to be used as an objective prediction tool when deciding a treatment path for a patient. With continued development of precise, objective measures to diagnose the severity of the tracheal stenosis, more patients can be given early and accurate prognosis and be treated appropriately. Level of Evidence 4. Laryngoscope, 124:1947–1951, 2014
Pine Tip Moth (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) Infestation Rates as Influenced by Site and Stand Characteristics in Loblolly Pine Plantations in East Texas

Three young loblolly pine plantations grown on contrasting soil types produced quantitatively and qualitatively different host material for pine tip moths during 1985 and 1986. Amounts, periodicity, and availability of soil moisture regulated internal moisture conditions within host trees. Host xylem moisture potential in conjunction with soil nutrient status governed tree growth and influenced pine tip moth infestation rates. Pines on a sandy site exhibited the poorest growth with lowest infestation rates, indicative of low-quality hosts with little if any tolerance to damage. A clayey site produced vigorous plant growth with moderate infestation rates. The less apparent hosts appeared capable of withstanding pine tip moth attack and overcoming damage. Pines on a loamy site grew at moderate rates and received the highest infestation rates. This moderate growth indicated susceptible stand conditions.
The diagonal conjugate.

Abstract The diagonal conjugate has been analyzed from the following viewpoints: (1) evaluation of Smellie's rule; (2) the relationship of the clinical C.D. to the x-ray C.D.; (3) the accuracy of the clinical C.D.; (4) the relationship of the clinical C.D. to the x-ray C.O.; (5) the clinical results of the clinical C.D., and (6) the clinical results of the x-ray C.D.
Long-term Results of Pediatric Cataract Surgery and Primary Intraocular Lens Implantation From 7 to 22 Months of Life

Importance Pediatric primary posterior intraocular lens (IOL) implantation in children older than 24 months has become the standard of care. Results of the Infantile Aphakia Treatment Study have concluded that primary IOL implantation before age 7 months has no advantages over aphakia. The current evidence does not address our understanding of the risks and benefits of primary IOL implantation for children aged 7 to 24 months. Observations Final optotype acuity, adverse events, refractive growth, strabismus, binocular function, and need for additional surgery were retrospectively reviewed for 14 eyes of 10 patients from November 2001 to June 2012. The records were reviewed for children aged 6 to 24 months; included patients were aged 7 to 22 months. The mean (SD) visual acuity was 0.29 (0.30) logMAR (Snellen equivalent 20/40). The mean follow-up was 5 years. The rate of adverse events was 3 in 14 eyes (21%). Adverse events included lens reproliferation (2 eyes) and lens dislocation (1 eye). The rate of strabismus correction was 4 in 10 patients (40%). The mean (SD) rate of refractive growth at 3 times the age at surgery was −5.80 (3.09) diopters. Conclusions and Relevance The data suggest that primary IOL implantation in this age group has a lower rate of adverse events than reported in the Infantile Aphakia Treatment Study. Additionally, favorable visual outcome was found, similar to that in children undergoing primary IOL implantation when older than 2 years. Primary IOL implantation should be considered in children who require cataract surgery after age 7 months.
Mutual Learning and the Transformation of Study Intervention Tools

We planned a multicomponent intervention to increase primary care practices’ provision of health behavior advice and patients’ access to resources for health behavior change. The intervention included 2 tools: (1) a Web-based resource ( ) consisting of a
Caspase-8 Regulation by Direct Interaction with TRAF6 in T Cell Receptor-Induced NF-κB Activation

Triggering of lymphocyte antigen receptors is the critical first step in the adaptive immune response against pathogens. T cell receptor (TCR) ligation assembles a large membrane signalosome, culminating in NF-kappaB activation [1,2]. Recently, caspase-8 was found to play a surprisingly prominent role in lymphocyte activation in addition to its well-known role in apoptosis [3]. Caspase-8 is activated after TCR stimulation and nucleates a complex with B cell lymphoma 10 (BCL10), paracaspase MALT1, and the inhibitors of kappaB kinase (IKK) complex [4]. We now report that the ubiquitin ligase TRAF6 binds to active caspase-8 upon TCR stimulation and facilitates its movement into lipid rafts. We identified in silico two putative TRAF6 binding motifs in the caspase-8 sequence and found that mutation of critical residues within these sites abolished TRAF6 binding and diminished TCR-induced NF-kappaB activation. Moreover, RNAi-mediated silencing of TRAF6 abrogated caspase-8 recruitment to the lipid rafts. Protein kinase Ctheta (PKCtheta), CARMA1, and BCL10 are also required for TCR-induced caspase-8 relocation, but only PKCtheta and BCL10 control caspase-8 activation. Our results suggest that PKCtheta independently controls CARMA1 phosphorylation and BCL10-dependent caspase-8 activation and unveil an essential role for TRAF6 as a critical adaptor linking these two convergent signaling events.
Older Lesbian Adults’ Psychological Well-Being: The Significance of Pets

There is an urgent need to understand more about how social support affects the mental health of older lesbian adults, who have been underrepresented in research to date and who bear a disproportionately high rate of psychological distress. A robust, yet controversial, body of literature suggests that pets are associated with human psychological well-being, and this is especially true for older adults. Through semistructured interviews, this qualitative study explored the perceived impact of companion animals on the psychological well-being of older lesbian adults. The present study advances the literature by identifying two intertwined aspects of human-animal interaction—framed as love and caregiving—that have potential implications for four specific dimensions of psychological well-being among a sample of 12 older lesbian adults. This article also identifies ways in which having an animal can be difficult, and concludes with implications for social work practice and future research.
Designing a digital anthropometric measurement system for hospitals in Malawi

Accurate anthropometric measurements are a critical component of healthcare. Errors in reading or recording measurements compromise quality of care. Through a suite of simple technologies described here, a Malawi-based NGO, Baobab Health Partnership, is electronically measuring and recording potentially malnourished children's middle-upper arm circumference (MUAC). This data is quickly and reliably stored in a clinical database using a bar-code scanner connected to their touchscreen-based clinical workstation appliances. The author hypothesizes that, by doing this, fewer errors in measurement and transcription will arise. In addition, health-care providers will have access to cumulative, permanent patient measurement histories. (6 pages)
Sea‐ice dynamics and CO2 sensitivity in a global climate model

Abstract Present‐day results and CO2 sensitivity are described for two versions of a global climate model (genesis) with and without sea‐ice dynamics. Sea‐ice dynamics is modelled using the cavitating‐fluid method of Flato and Hibler (1990, 1992). The atmospheric general circulation model originated from the NCAR Community Climate Model version 1, but is heavily modified to include new treatments of clouds, penetrative convection, planetary boundary‐layer mixing, solar radiation, the diurnal cycle and the semi‐Lagrangian transport of water vapour. The surface models include an explicit model of vegetation (similar to BATS and SiB), multilayer models of soil, snow and sea ice, and a slab ocean mixed layer. When sea‐ice dynamics is turned off, the CO2‐induced warming increases drastically around ∼60–80°S in winter and spring. This is due to the much greater (and unrealistic) compactness of the Antarctic ice cover without dynamics, which is reduced considerably when CO2 is doubled and exposes more open ocean...
Observation of component fine structure in the linear dichroism of Fe 3p photoelectron emission

Abstract We have investigated fcc Fe x Co 1− x /Cu(1 0 0) alloy films with linear magnetic dichroism in photoemission. Specifically we studied the emission from the Fe 3p core level. For the first time, we have observed fine structure for linear dichroism in the photoelectron emission of the Fe 3p core level and confirmed our assignments using spin-polarized photoelectron spectroscopy. This conclusively demonstrates the validity of the single electron, density of states model for the 3p manifold of 3d magnetic materials.
Regulation of microtubule organization and functions by septin GTPases

Septins comprise an evolutionarily conserved family of oligomeric GTPases that regulate the intracellular localization of proteins by functioning as protein scaffolds and diffusion barriers. Recent studies reveal that septins associate with microtubules, microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs), and microtubule motors. Here, I review these findings and consider how septins may spatially regulate the interaction of microtubules with MAPs and motor proteins. Thus, septins may constitute a novel regulatory module of microtubule organization and function with important implications in the understanding and treatment of cancer and neurodegeneration. © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
STUDIES ON THE GROWTH AND METABOLISM OF POLYPORUS ANCEPS IN SUBMERGED CULTURE

mination and under the natural long days of spring (mostly 12 to 14 hr.). Dry weight production by Amaranthus caudatus is greatest under long photoperiods, least under continuous illumination. Plants continuously illuminated show various signs of abnormal growth; early abscission of leaves, general chlorosis, distinct leaf epinasty, and retarded development of taproots. Plants of Amaranthus caudatus are remarkably sensitive in their flowering response to short photoperiods. Plants grown under long photoperiods, then exposed to short photoperiods for 2 days, then returned to long photoperiods, developed macroscopically visible inflorescences; these inflorescences developed almost as rapidly as those of plants kept entirely under short days, and their flowers opened at about the same rate. The effects of short photoperiods in inducing flowering of Amaranthus caudatus are not limited to branches receiving the short photoperiods, but are capable of transmission to branches of the same plant receiving long photoperiods. The inflorescences of defoliated branches receiving long photoper-iods do not mature, but remain small, while nondefoliated branches receiving long photoperiods produce inflorescences which nearly rival those of the short-day branches in their development. No inhibitory effect of leaves of these long-day-exposed branches upon inflorescence and flower development was apparent, except for a slight retardation in the rate of inflorescence growth.
Skin testing recommendations for available heterologous immunoglobulin products in the US

Abstract Rationale Administration of heterologous protein may be associated with serious allergic reactions. It would be of interest to examine the recommendations on skin testing in the use of available immunoglobulin products obtained from animal sources. Methods Package inserts for marketed heterologous immunoglobulin products were examined for information on the immunogenicity of the product, warnings, precautions, and recommendations on skin testing. Results There are 8 polyclonal immunoglobulin products derived from equine, ovine, and rabbit sources, and 2 monoclonal antibody products of mouse origin. Three product labels state that skin testing should be performed prior to administration, and one strongly recommends it. One of the labels states that skin testing is not required, and another it is not suggested prior to dosing. In one case, the label stipulates that skin testing may be appropriate for high-risk individuals, while there is no mention of skin testing in the remaining three labels. These recommendations do not appear to correlate with the information on immunogenicity in the product labels. Moreover, there is no uniform description of what constitutes a “positive” skin test and when a product should be avoided should it occurs. Despite “negative” tests, some patients may still experience reactions to the products. Desensitization procedures are described in 3 labels. The above information is generally presented in the Warnings and/or Precautions sections, but one label gives it under the Indications and Usage section. Conclusions Current recommendations on skin testing for heterologous immunoglobulin products are varied. An evidence-based approach would be preferred in formulating such recommendations in the future.
Arginine Requirement and the Arginine Content of Casein

Abstract Much has been written concerning the high arginine requirement of chicks fed diets based on casein as the source of protein. The peculiar amino acid balance of casein, as suggested by studies from this laboratory (Fisher, Shapiro and Griminger, 1960), may in part explain this phenomenon. We now wish to draw attention to a recently published article on seasonal variations in the arginine content of casein, which might provide another missing link in explaining the high arginine requirement of chicks on casein diets. According to Kiermeier and Kirchmeier (1963) the amino acid content of milk casein changes considerably with the season. The authors found, for example, a large increase in essential amino acids between July and November, and a corresponding decrease in nonessential amino acids. Specifically, the value for arginine ranged from 3.5 to 4.8% of the protein during the year. This could mean a difference in excess of 30%…
Online Adaptive Learning for Team Strategies in Multi-Agent Systems

Abstract : During mission execution in military applications, the TRADOC Pamphlet 525-66 Battle Command and Battle Space Awareness capabilities prescribe expectations that networked teams will perform in a reliable manner under changing mission requirements and changing team and individual objectives. In this paper we first present an overall view for dynamical decision-making in teams, both cooperative and competitive. Strategies for team decision problems, including optimal control, N-player games (H control, non-zero sum) and so on are normally solved offline by solving associated matrix equations such as the coupled Riccati equations or coupled Hamilton?Jacobi equations. However, using that approach, players cannot change their objectives online in real time without calling for a completely new offline solution for the new strategies. Therefore, in this paper we give a method for learning optimal team strategies online in real time as team dynamical play unfolds. In the linear quadratic regulator case, for instance, the method learns the coupled Riccati equations solution online without ever solving the coupled Riccati equations. This allows for truly dynamical team decisions where objective functions can change in real time and the system dynamics can be time-varying.
The frontal eye field and prefrontal cortex project to the paramedian pontine reticular formation in the cat.

Abstract Transcannular microinjections of horseradish peroxidase were made into the paramedian pontine reticular formation (PPRF) in adult cats to identify regions of the cerebral cortex having direct influence on this important center for the production of saccadic eye movements. The majority of retrogradely labeled cortico-(ponto) reticular neurons were located in lamina V of the dorsomedial precruciate shoulder cortex and presylvian sulcal cortex, the medial and lateral frontal eye fields of the cat respectively. In most cases, labeled cells also extended into the gyrus proreus, the cat prefrontal cortex.
The revised World Health Organization diagnostic criteria for polycythemia vera, essential thrombocytosis and primary myelofibrosis: an alternative proposal

In its August 15, 2007, issue, Blood published a proposal for revision of the World Health Organization (WHO) diagnostic criteria for the chronic myeloproliferative disorders (MPDs) polycythemia vera (PV), essential thrombocytosis (ET), and primary myelofibrosis (PMF).[1][1] Algorithms based on
On negativity in Revolution in Poetic Language

Kristeva’s Revolution in Poetic Language offers a challenge to theories of the subject in psychoanalysis, linguistic theory, and in philosophy. Central to that challenge is Kristeva’s conception of negativity. In this article, I trace the development of the concept of negativity in Revolution in Poetic Language from its root in Hegel, to rejection, which Kristeva develops out of Freud. Both are crucial to the development of the material dialectic between the semiotic and the symbolic that makes up Kristeva’s subject-in-process/on trial. I argue that a clearer understanding of Kristeva’s conception of negativity helps us to better appreciate the force of Kristeva’s challenge, both philosophically and politically. Finally I argue that Kristevan negativity also helps us to clarify the relation between the delimited space of politics and its conditions, laying the groundwork for constitutive exclusion as political critique and opening a space for the possibility of political re-constitutions.
A Comparison of Methods Used in Determining the Time of Ovulation1

ALL INDIRECT METHODS used in attempting to determine the time of ovulation in women are open to the criticism that it is not ovulation, but something else, which is being studied. On the other hand, such direct methods as the inspection of ovaries at laparotomy, and the recovery of eggs from the tubes, also have their shortcomings. In addition to the limitations imposed by the necessary surgical procedures, the direct methods usually permit only one observation on a given subject, they give little information of underlying physiologic mechanisms and they are not entirely objective, as the interpretation of the stage of development observed rests on the judgment of the investigator. Indirect methods, therefore, have their place, in spite of fundamental weaknesses and what is required is the establishment of their validity as tests for ovulation. It is now generally accepted that ovulation usually occurs during the mid-interval of the menstrual cycle, and that it is under hormonal control.
Effects of glycolic acid on light-induced skin pigmentation in Asian and caucasian subjects.

Abstract Background: Topical use of α-hydroxy acid (AHA) may increase skin photosensitivity, as demonstrated by increased numbers of sunburst cells. However, effects of AHA on tanning have not been studied. Objective: Our purpose was to study whether short-term use of glycolic acid hastens resolution of pre-existing light-induced pigmentation and whether the skin becomes tan more easily in Asian and Caucasian subjects after such treatment. Methods: Six Asian and six Caucasian volunteers received separate irradiations of UVB and UVA to both sides of the lower back. In a double-blind fashion, patients then applied a 10% glycolic acid gel, pH 3.52, to one side of the back, including the irradiated area, and the contralateral extensor forearms once daily for 7 days and then twice daily for 2 weeks. A placebo gel, pH 5.75, was applied to the opposite sides. The subjects returned for measurement of residual tanning with a colorimeter and received additional irradiation to forearms and a second site on the back. Resulting pigmentation was measured immediately after irradiation, at 2 hours, and at 1 week. Results: Increased UVB-induced skin tanning occurred on the forearm and the lower back in both races in areas pretreated with glycolic acid. UVA also caused increased tanning, but only on the extensor forearms in Asian subjects. Treatment with glycolic acid for 3 weeks had no effect on pre-existing light-induced pigmentation. Conclusion: Short-term topical treatment of glycolic acid caused an increase in UVB tanning as well as in UVA tanning in some subjects, even in the absence of overt irritation. The inclusion of UVB, and even UVA, sunscreen in AHA products may be warranted. (J Am Acad Dermatol 2000;43:238-43.)
Optogenetics enables functional analysis of human embryonic stem cell–derived grafts in a Parkinson's disease model

Recent studies have shown evidence of behavioral recovery after transplantation of human pluripotent stem cell (PSC)-derived neural cells in animal models of neurological disease. However, little is known about the mechanisms underlying graft function. Here we use optogenetics to modulate in real time electrophysiological and neurochemical properties of mesencephalic dopaminergic (mesDA) neurons derived from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs). In mice that had recovered from lesion-induced Parkinsonian motor deficits, light-induced selective silencing of graft activity rapidly and reversibly re-introduced the motor deficits. The re-introduction of motor deficits was prevented by the dopamine agonist apomorphine. These results suggest that functionality depends on graft neuronal activity and dopamine release. Combining optogenetics, slice electrophysiology and pharmacological approaches, we further show that mesDA-rich grafts modulate host glutamatergic synaptic transmission onto striatal medium spiny neurons in a manner reminiscent of endogenous mesDA neurons. Thus, application of optogenetics in cell therapy can link transplantation, animal behavior and postmortem analysis to enable the identification of mechanisms that drive recovery.
p-Adic strings, the Weil conjectures and anomalies

Abstract An analogy between the Veneziano amplitude and the p-adic interpolation of the beta-function is suggested as the basis of a new p-adic quantum geometry. Relationships with the Weil conjectures, Fermat curves and anomalies are discussed.
Impact of White Mold Incidence on Dry Bean Yield Under Nonirrigated Conditions.

ABSTRACT Studies on chemical control of white mold, conducted between 1994 and 2001 at several locations in North Dakota, resulted in diverse levels of white mold incidence and severity. Navy bean cultivars were evaluated in on-farm trials between 1994 and 1996, while pinto bean cultivars were used between 1997 and 2001. The relationship between yield and white mold incidence in these trials was examined using correlation and regression analysis. White mold incidence was correlated to severity using a second-degree polynomial equation (R 2 = 0.90, P = 0.0001) in pinto bean experiments. For every percent unit increase in white mold incidence, yield was reduced by 12 kg/ha (range 7 to 19 kg/ha) in pinto bean and by 23 kg/ha (range 19 to 26 kg/ha) in navy bean. In both instances, the coefficients of determination were significant (P < 0.04) for most locations or years, and ranged from 0.42 to 0.87 for pinto bean and from 0.98 to 0.99 for navy bean. Fungicide-protected plots had an average white mold incidenc...
William Croone’s theory of muscular contraction

In the mid-seventeenth century William Croone had been the earliest among his contemporaries to concern himself with muscular motion. Thus, much of the discussion on muscular movement in the period after 1664 is either a commentary upon Croone’s views or is derived from them, and his influence was thus widespread, especially on the Continent. The background to Croone’s own views is largely that of Greek physiology as represented in the works of Galen. The first person who had a theory of muscle contraction seems to have been Erasistratus. Galen says that Erasistratus of Chios (fl. 290 b.c.) considered that when a muscle is filled with pneuma its breadth increases while its length diminishes and for this reason it is contracted. (1) Galen himself was impressed by the contractility of muscle and by the fact that this contractility depends on the nerve arising from the spinal cord and entering the muscle, where it branches repeatedly and sends its branches into all parts of the muscle. If the nerve, entering the muscle, be cut or injured or merely compressed the muscle loses all movement and sensitivity. (2) Galen considered that a muscle is made up of fibres and flesh. (3) The fibres of the muscle are continuous with those of its tendons at either end. In the body of the muscle itself the fibres are spread apart by the flesh contained in the interspaces between them. Each of these continuous fibres extending through both the tendon and the muscle Galen considers to be made up of finer fibres—on the one hand of inert and insensitive fibres of the same kind as occur in ligaments and, on the other hand, of sensitive fibres which are simply fine extensions of the branches of the nerves. (4) Galen does not, however, seem to offer, as does Erasistratus any mechanism to account for muscle contraction. To Galen the muscle is simply moved by the motor faculty which comes from the brain.
EFFECTS OF CO2‐SNOW ON THE QUALITY AND ACCEPTANCE OF MECHANICALLY DEBONED POULTRY MEAT

Mechanically deboned chicken meat (MDCM) and mechanically de-boned turkey meat (MDTM) were chilled with CO2-snow, frozen, and stored at -20° C for up to 48 wk. MDCM exposed to CO2 generally exhibited higher TBA values and peroxide values (PV) than control samples (no CO2). TBA values of treated and untreated MDTM were similar; however, PV of CO2-treated MDTM were consistently higher. Meat exposed to CO2 was initially redder than untreated meat; however during later stages of frozen storage, control samples were redder. Taste panelists were able to discriminate among the various treatments. Meat chilled with CO2 was generally preferred to control samples and meat “frozen” with CO2; control samples were usually preferred over CO2-frozen samples.
Experimental investigation of selective colloidal interactions controlled by shape, surface roughness, and steric layers.

Photolithography can be used to form monodisperse colloids of well-defined, nonspherical shape in a negative photoresist, SU-8. In aqueous suspension, in the presence of dextran as a depletant, we showed previously that the aggregation of these particles was highly selective for the end-to-end configuration: cylinders assembled into linear aggregates that could extend to lengths of tens of units without significant lateral aggregation. This article presents an in-depth study of the mechanisms by which these particles aggregate. In particular, we focus on the roles of global shape, roughness, and adsorbed layers of surfactants in mediating depletion, van der Waals (vdW), and electrostatic interactions between these particles. We describe in detail the fabrication and characterization of the particles. To allow for the interpretations of the experiments, we present predictions for the interactions between mathematically ideal cylinders with smooth surfaces, and a statistical thermodynamic model for the line...
THE EFFECT OF SIMULTANEOUS MOTION PRESENTATION AND GRAPH GENERATION IN A KINEMATICS LAB

Real-time microcomputer-based Lab (MBL) experiments allow students to “see” and, at least in kinematics exercises, “feel” the connection between a physical event and its graphical representation. In Brasell’s (1987) examination of the sonic ranger MBL, a delay of graphing by only 20 seconds diminished the impact of the MBL exercises. This article describes a study where kinesthetic feedback was completely removed by only giving students visual replications of a motion situation. Graph production was synchronized with motion reanimation so that students still saw a moving object and its kinematics graph simultaneously. Results indicate that this technique did not have a substantial educational advantage over traditional instruction. Since Brasell and others have demonstrated the superiority of microcomputer-based labs, this may indicate that visual juxtaposition is not the relevant variable producing the educational impact of real-time MBL. Immediate student control of the physical event and its graphical representation might be what makes MBL effective and, in the case of kinematics laboratories, kinesthetic feedback could be the most important component of the MBC learning experience. Further studies are needed in order to clarify this point. Recent studies note that microcomputer-Based Laboratory (MBL) experiences are useful in helping students understand the relationships between physical events and graphs representing those events (Barclay, 1986; Mokros & Tinker, 1987; Thomton, 1986; Tinker, 1986). Research indicates that it is the real-time nature of MBL that accounts for the improvement in student achievement (Brasell, 1987). In other words, the effectiveness of the technique stems from the fact that the situation being examined by the student is actually occurring while the graphs relating to that event are being produced. This study began as an attempt to examine the educational impact of just the visual juxtaposition of a motion event with the corresponding kinematics graphs (the “VideoOraph technique”). The original intent was to show that merely seeing a recreation of the event in the form of a computer animation of videotaped images was sufficient to let students learn significantly more than the traditional kinematics lab experiments allow. This hypothesis proved to be incorrect. Although the VideoGraph students had higher scores than did the traditional groups, this difference was not large enough to be statistically meaningful.
Payment Reform Alone Will Not Transform Health Care Delivery

ABSTRACT: Payment reforms clearly are an important change agent in our efforts to improve the health care delivery system. For broader health care delivery reform to take root and work, however, pa...
Nature of Phthalates as Internal Donors in High Performance MgCl2 Supported Titanium Catalysts

High performance MgCl2 supported titanium catalyst having diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP) as internal donor has been synthesized. The organic components present in the catalyst have been studied through FTIR, 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy. The results indicate presence of diethyl phthalate also in addition to DIBP. WAXD analysis has been done to study the features of MgCl2 crystallites. Impact of donor components on the catalyst preparation leading to reaction pathways and performance for propylene polymerization has been evaluated.
The role of reversed kinematics and double kinematic solutions in nuclear reactions studies

Abstract The advantages of reversed kinematics in nuclear reactions studies are discussed, with particular emphasis on the origin of double solutions in the reaction kinematics. This possibility for double solutions does not exist in normal kinematics, and provides the basis for a new method of imposing important experimental constraints on the uniqueness of fitting complex observations. By gating on one or the other of the two solutions, light particle kinematics can be greatly influenced in coincidence measurements. The power of the method is illustrated with data from the reaction 1030 MeV 121 Sb + 27 Al, where charged particle emissions arise from several different sources.