cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Optimizing the delivery of deep brain stimulation using electrophysiological atlases and an inverse modeling approach

The use of deep brain stimulation (DBS) for the treatment of neurological movement degenerative disorders requires the precise placement of the stimulating electrode and the determination of optimal stimulation parameters that maximize symptom relief (e.g. tremor, rigidity, movement difficulties, etc.) while minimizing undesired physiological side-effects. This study demonstrates the feasibility of determining the ideal electrode placement and stimulation current amplitude by performing a patient-specific multivariate optimization using electrophysiological atlases and a bioelectric finite element model of the brain. Using one clinical case as a preliminary test, the optimization routine is able to find the most efficacious electrode location while avoiding the high side-effect regions. Future work involves optimization validation clinically and improvement to the accuracy of the model.
Upstream Effects of Mesoscale Mountains

Abstract The Alpine Experiment (ALPEX) has revealed that low-level air is typically diverted around the Alps without reaching the mountaintop. In pursuit of an understanding of the physical basis of this phenomenon and of its generality, we have explored the characteristics of orographic blocking of a rotating continuously stratified quid, as revealed in a simple model problem retaining full nonlinear and transient effects. Hydrostatic dynamics is assumed, and the obstacle is taken to be an infinitely long ridge with height h(x). The key questions treated are the strength of the upstream deceleration of cross-mountain flow and the length scale over which the decelerated region extends. By means of scale analysis, the controlling parameters are found to be the Rossby number Ro = U/fL and the Froude number Fr = Nhm/U, where U is the speed of the oncoming flow, f is the Coriolis parameter, L the mountain half-width, N the Brunt-Vaisala frequency, and hm is the maximum mountain height. The scale analysis also...
Dynamic modeling of plasma-vapor interactions during plasma disruptions

Intense deposition of energy in short times on fusion reactor components during a plasma disruption may cause severe surface erosion due to ablation of these components. The exact amount of the eroded material is very important to the reactor design and its lifetime. During the plasma deposition, the vaporized wall material will interact with the incoming plasma particles and may shield the rest of the wall from further damage. The vapor shielding may then prolong the lifetime of these components and increase the reactor duty cycle. To correctly evaluate the impact of vapor shielding effect a comprehensive model is developed. In this model the dynamic slowing down of the plasma particles, both ions and electrons, in the eroded wall material and the resulting interaction processes are established. The generated photons radiation source and the transport of this radiation through the vapor to the wall are modeled. Recent experimental data on disruptions is analyzed and compared with model predictions.
SU-FF-T-28: Localizing Differences in 131Cs Intraoperative and Postoperative Prostate Seed Brachytherapy Plans

Purpose: Relative shifts in isodose curves were noted between post‐operative and intra‐operative 131 Cs prostate seed plans. This study examines the dose differences between intra‐operative and post‐operative plans and evaluates regions of prostate to determine the direction of the shift. Materials and Methods: 103 patient plans done with 131 Cs seed implants were examined. Each intra‐operative plan was derived in realtime via TRUS. Loose seeds (mean activity of 2.1U) were implanted to deliver a peripheral dose of 115Gy. Post‐operative studies were evaluated via CT at 4 weeks post implant. Intra‐operative and post‐operative prostate D90, D100 and V100 were compared. 50 patients were randomly selected and had two additional volumes contoured, Anterior‐Prostate (AP) and Posterior‐Prostate (PP). D90, D100 and V100 values for these additional regions were also compared. Results: Comparing intra‐operative and post‐operative plans, significant differences (p = 10% in 73.8% of patients. V100 prostate quantities dipped in post‐operative plans >= 4% in 64.1% patients. For the additional regions contoured, intra‐operative AP D90, D100 and V100 values were >=10% higher than their corresponding post‐operative values in 74.0%, 64.0% and 68.0% of patients, respectively. Intra‐operative to post‐operative dose reductions of at least 5% to the PP D90 and D100 values were noted for 56% and 64% of patients. Conversely, 62% experienced increased post‐operative PP V100 values of at least 5%. Conclusion: These findings confirm significant prostate dose discrepancies between intra‐operative and post‐operative plans. Specifically, the dose to anterior prostate was consistently overestimated in intra‐operative plans. Discrepancies are believed to be due to the probe deforming the prostate during the implant. However, further evaluation is needed to provide conclusive results.
Synthesis and characterization of monodisperse colloidal spheres of Pb containing superparamagnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles

Abstract Monodisperse colloidal spheres of Pb embedded with superparamagnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles have been synthesized by refluxing lead acetate in the presence of a magnetite-based ferrofluid in tetra(ethylene glycol), followed by quenching with cold ethanol. Depending on the amounts of ferrofluid and lead acetate fed to the reaction mixture, the molar ratio of encapsulated Fe3O4 to Pb could be varied in the range of 0.001–0.06. Both superparamagnetic and superconducting properties were characterized by SQUID measurements. These results demonstrate a simple, solution-phase approach to the controlled synthesis of composite colloidal spheres displaying a combination of superconducting and superparamagnetic properties.
Genetic control of Russian wheat aphid (Diuraphis noxia) resistance in wheat accession PI 47545

The Russian wheat aphid, Diuraphis noxia (Mordvilko), is a major pest of cereal crops in many areas of the world, causing serious reduction in grain yield in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and barley (Hordeum vulgare L.). Incorporating genetic resistance to D. noxia into wheat cultivars is paramount to effectively reduce damage inflicted by this pest. Genetic resistance to D. noxia has been identified in wheat, barley and rye germplasm, and several resistance genes are available for use for cultivar improvement. In the United States of America, only a few Russian wheat aphid (RWA) resistant winter wheat cultivars are currently available, and these cultivars contain only one of the six known RWA resistance genes. The objective of this study was to determine the inheritance of RWA resistance in wheat accession PI 47545, using a screening method based on differences in the leaf morphology of resistant and susceptible types following insect challenge. PI 47545 was selected for study, since it displayed high levels of resistance in a white-grained wheat background, the predominant wheat class produced in the Pacific Northwest of the USA. Segregation analysis was conducted on an F2 population developed by cross-hybridizing the susceptible soft white winter wheat cultivar ‘Daws’ to the resistant accession PI 47545. Russian wheat aphid screening data from this population indicated that the resistance in PI 47545 is controlled by a single, dominant gene (χ2 = 1.72; p ≤ 0.189).
Use of Contingent Valuation to Elicit Willingness-to-Pay for the Benefits of Developmental Health Risk Reductions

We report the results of several contingent valuation (CV) surveys to elicit willingness-to-pay values from the general public for risk reductions associated with decreases in exposure to a chemical, PCBs, in the environment. We also develop Quality Adjusted Life Years (QALYs) from the survey using both standard gamble and time-tradeoff elicitation methods to explore the relationship between QALYs and willingness-to-pay (WTP), and to develop QALY weights for subtle developmental effects. The results of the CV surveys are designed for incorporation into a case study of an integrated risk model to monetize the benefits of predicted risk reductions. Respondents showed a nearly proportional, positive relationship between decreasing the risk of a 6-point reduction in IQ (a standard measure of “intelligence”) and WTP, but showed a negative relationship between risk reduction and WTP for reading comprehension as an outcome. The range of mortality risks that respondents would accept on behalf of their (hypothetical) 10-year-old child is 2 in 10,000 to 9 in 1,000 per IQ point, and WTP per IQ point is $466 ($380, $520). QALY weights elicited via time tradeoff (reduction in life expectancy) were significantly different from QALY weights elicited via a standard gamble (p = 0.001). Respondents who answered questions about ecological endpoints first were willing to pay a small additional amount when asked about human health effects, but those respondents who answered questions about human health endpoints first were not willing to pay any additional amount when subsequently asked about ecological effects.
A new friendly method of computing prolate spheroidal wave functions and wavelets

Abstract Prolate spheroidal wave functions, because of their many remarkable properties leading to new applications, have recently experienced an upsurge of interest. They may be defined as eigenfunctions of either a differential operator or an integral operator (as observed by Slepian in the 1960s). There are various ways of calculating their values based on both approaches. The standard one uses an approximation based on Legendre polynomials, which, however, is valid only on a finite interval. An alternative, valid in a neighborhood of infinity, uses a Bessel function approximation. In this letter we present a new method based on an eigenvalue problem for a matrix operator equivalent to that of the integral operator. Its solution gives the values of these functions on the entire real line and is computationally more efficient.
Abnormally low electromagnetic scattering cross sections

We discuss the possibility of achieving abnormally low electromagnetic scattering cross sections at low frequencies by adjusting the optical properties of the scatterers (e.g., concentric spheres), generalizing the work in an earlier communication. The discussion is based upon an expansion valid for any spherical scatterer of finite size and is model independent. It is shown that if the electric and magnetic dipole scattering lengths are made to vanish, the low-frequency cross section is proportional to k8 for dielectric bodies, as has been observed experimentally in phase-separated glasses and in precipitated alloys. The angular distribution under these conditions is discussed, and is found normally to peak in the backward direction also in agreement with experiment.
The involvement of 6p in melanoma

Karyotype analysis of first passage cells from a melanoma, occurring in a patient with a giant congenital nevus, revealed monosomy of chromosomes #6 and #11, and trisomy of chromosomes #8 and #22. Five marker chromosomes were present, including two ring chromosomes. The origin of three of the marker chromosomes was determined, and all were found to contain the region 6p21.1-6p23. The ring chromosomes were also thought to contain this region, to which the major histocompatibility locus has been mapped. The significance of these findings is discussed in the light of recent reports of chromosome studies of melanoma cells.
A turnpike approach to solving the linear bottleneck assignment problem

The linear bottleneck assignment problem (LBAP), which is a variation of the classical assignment problem (CAP), seeks to minimize the longest completion time rather than the sum of the completion times when a number of jobs are to be assigned to the same number of workers. Several procedures have been proposed in the current literature to convert the LBAP into an equivalent CAP and then apply the Hungarian method to solve it efficiently. However, their applicability is limited because some of the elements in the transformed assignment matrix for the CAP can be too large to be handled by most computer programs. In this paper, we suggest a turnpike approach to alleviate the problem so that the conversion methodology will become more useful in practice. A numerical example is provided to demonstrate the superiority of the new algorithm to the existing ones.
Elements of Cartography: Tracing Fifty Years of Academic Cartography

When Arthur Robinson published the first edition of Elements of Cartography in 1953, it marked a major change in academic cartography. Erwin Raisz’s General Cartography, first published in 1938 and revised in 1948, had been the standard text. Robinson’s book represented the metamorphosis in cartography after WWII and set the standard for the second half of the twentieth century. A review of the book’s contents through its 6 editions reveals the prevalent thinking in cartography during a dynamic period in the history of cartography. Through it we can trace changes from hand-drawn maps to the rise of GIS and remote sensing. Although Elements is no longer the major textbook, its impact was enormous. This paper traces the history of late twentieth century cartography through the pages of Elements of Cartography. A content analysis of all six editions of Elements of Cartography was done to determine the emphasis on various aspects of cartography. An analysis of Erwin Raisz’s two editions of General Cartography was also included in order to note the changes in content and philosophy from pre-war to post-war cartography.
Localization of the tight junction protein gene TJP1 to human chromosome 15q13, distal to the prader-willi/angelman region, and to mouse chromosome 7

The gene encoding the tight junction (zonula occludens) protein, TJP1, was mapped to human chromosome 15q13 by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) using a cDNA probe. The Jackson Laboratory backcross DNA panel derived from the cross (C57BL/6JEi X SPRET/Ei) F1 females X SPRET/Ei males was used to map the mouse Tjp1 to chromosome 7 near position 30 on the Chromosome Committee Map, a region with conserved homology to human chromosome 15q13. FISH studies on metaphases from patients with the Prader-Willi (PWS) or the Angelman syndrome (AS) showed that TJP1 maps close but distal to the PWS/AS chromosome region. 13 refs., 2 figs.
Evaluation of tests of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis function used to measure effects of inhaled corticosteroids.

Objectives To review the evidence supporting the evaluation of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis function as a measure of systemic exposure and clinical adverse events, discuss factors that affect systemic exposure to inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs), and review the effects of various ICSs that are currently available or under development on HPA axis function from a therapeutic perspective. Data Sources Randomized published clinical trials and review articles on the topic of HPA axis suppression were retrieved in MEDLINE. Searches dating back to 1988 were restricted to human studies published in English. Study Selection Studies that evaluated HPA axis function and the methods used to measure its activities and the effects of ICSs (fluticasone propionate, budesonide, beclomethasone dipropionate, mometasone furoate, and ciclesonide) were selected. Results Factors that influence adverse events caused by ICSs include pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties, delivery devices, and therapeutic dose and duration. Basal measurements of blood and urinary cortisol levels, reflecting basal HPA axis function, are the most sensitive markers for assessing systemic ICS bioavailability but, compared with dynamic stimulation tests, are poor clinical predictors of adrenal dysfunction. Conclusions Basal serologic and urinary cortisol tests provide the best measures of assessing and comparing systemic ICS exposure. Long-term clinical studies are needed to determine whether such tests are predictive of ICS toxicity.
Description of Aerosol Dynamics by the Quadrature Method of Moments

The method of moments (MOM) may be used to determine the evolution of the lower-order moments of an unknown aerosol distribution. Previous applications of the method have been limited by the requirement that the equations governing the evolution of the lower-order moments be in closed form. Here a new approach, the quadrature method of moments (QMOM), is described. The dynamical equations for moment evolution are replaced by a quadrature-based approximate set that satisfies closure under a much broader range of conditions without requiring that the size distribution or growth law maintain any special mathematical form. The conventional MOM is recovered as a special case of the QMOM under those conditions, e.g., free-molecular growth, for which conventional closure is satisfied. The QMOM is illustrated for the growth of sulfuric acid-water aerosols and simulations of diffusion-controlled cloud droplet growth are presented.
Provided visual mediators, imagery instructions, and concreteness in paired associate learning

Two paired associate lists of 32 nouns were presented to subjects in three treatment conditions: One received imagery instructions, another saw provided pictorial mediators, and the third received only task instructions. Concrete high-imagery-arousing nouns were superior in facilitating learning, especially in the stimulus position. This effect was reduced in the provided-mediator group, as evidenced by an interaction between pair type and treatment, but it was not eliminated. A posttask test of mediator recall presented to the provided-mediator group showed no difference in recall due to pair type if the mediator was recalled, but there were differences in recall of the mediator related to concreteness. The difference between subject-generated and experimenter-provided mediators appeared to depend on the concreteness of materials.
Scalable Parallel Distance Field Construction for Large-Scale Applications

Computing distance fields is fundamental to many scientific and engineering applications. Distance fields can be used to direct analysis and reduce data. In this paper, we present a highly scalable method for computing 3D distance fields on massively parallel distributed-memory machines. A new distributed spatial data structure, named parallel distance tree , is introduced to manage the level sets of data and facilitate surface tracking over time, resulting in significantly reduced computation and communication costs for calculating the distance to the surface of interest from any spatial locations. Our method supports several data types and distance metrics from real-world applications. We demonstrate its efficiency and scalability on state-of-the-art supercomputers using both large-scale volume datasets and surface models. We also demonstrate in-situ distance field computation on dynamic turbulent flame surfaces for a petascale combustion simulation. Our work greatly extends the usability of distance fields for demanding applications.
Activation of α2A‐containing nicotinic acetylcholine receptors mediates nicotine‐induced motor output in embryonic zebrafish

It is well established that cholinergic signaling has critical roles during central nervous system development. In physiological and behavioral studies, activation of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) has been implicated in mediating cholinergic signaling. In developing spinal cord, cholinergic transmission is associated with neural circuits responsible for producing locomotor behaviors. In this study, we investigated the expression pattern of the α2A nAChR subunit as previous evidence suggested it could be expressed by spinal neurons. In situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry revealed that the α2A nAChR subunits are expressed in spinal Rohon-Beard (RB) neurons and olfactory sensory neurons in young embryos. To examine the functional role of the α2A nAChR subunit during embryogenesis, we blocked its expression using antisense modified oligonucleotides. Blocking the expression of α2A nAChR subunits had no effect on spontaneous motor activity. However, it did alter the embryonic nicotine-induced motor output. This reduction in motor activity was not accompanied by defects in neuronal and muscle elements associated with the motor output. Moreover, the anatomy and functionality of RB neurons was normal even in the absence of the α2A nAChR subunit. Thus, we propose that α2A-containing nAChRs are dispensable for normal RB development. However, in the context of nicotine-induced motor output, α2A-containing nAChRs on RB neurons provide the substrate that nicotine acts upon to induce the motor output. These findings also indicate that functional neuronal nAChRs are present within spinal cord at the time when locomotor output in zebrafish first begins to manifest itself.
Effects of the nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitor, Fadrozole, on sexual behavior in male rats

The new nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitor, Fadrozole (CGS 16949A, CIBA-Geigy Corp.), was tested for its ability (i) to inhibit the conversion of testosterone (T) to estradiol (E2) in brain and (ii) to suppress male sexual activity. Sprague-Dawley rats were castrated and immediately given sc Silastic T-implants and osmotic minipumps delivering 2.5 mg/kg/day Fadrozole (N = 4), 0.25 mg/kg/day Fadrozole (N = 4), or water (N = 4 controls). T-implants were removed after 6 days and, 3 days later, 3H-T (1 microCi/g) was given as an iv bolus. No 3H-E2 was detected in hypothalamic or amygdaloid nuclear pellets from Fadrozole-treated males but this metabolite predominated in controls. However, nuclear concentrations of 3H-T and [3H]dihydrotestosterone were similar in all groups. In another group of males (N = 18), brain aromatase activity was reduced by more than 96% at the 0.25 mg/kg dose level. Additional castrated, T-implanted males received minipumps delivering 0.25 mg/kg/day Fadrozole (six males) or water (six behaviorally matched controls) and were tested weekly with receptive females. After 2 weeks, ejaculations were reduced by 77% compared with controls (P less than 0.01) and, after 4 weeks, intromissions were also significantly reduced (P less than 0.05) but less so (48%). Radioenzymatic estimates of plasma aromatase inhibitor levels remained elevated throughout Fadrozole treatment. These males were then given Silastic E2 implants: intromissions increased significantly in 1 week (P less than 0.01), but ejaculations remained below control values. Results supported the view that aromatization is important for sexual behavior in male rats and suggested that Fadrozole has utility for studying the mechanisms by which testosterone affects behavior.
Nuclear dependence of dimuon production at 800 GeV.

A precise measurement of the atomic-mass dependence of dimuon production induced by 800-GeV protons is reported. Over 450 000 muon pairs with dimuon mass M\ensuremath{\ge}4 GeV were recorded from targets of $^{2}\mathrm{H}$, C, Ca, Fe, and W. The ratio of dimuon yield per nucleon for nuclei versus $^{2}\mathrm{H}$, R=${\mathit{Y}}_{\mathit{A}}$/${\mathit{Y}}_{2\mathit{H}}$, is sensitive to modifications of the antiquark sea in nuclei. No nuclear dependence of this ratio is observed over the range of target-quark momentum fraction 0.1${\mathit{x}}_{\mathit{t}}$0.3. For ${\mathit{x}}_{\mathit{t}}$0.1 the ratio is slightly less than unity for the heavy nuclei. These results are compared with predictions of models of the European Muon Collaboration effect.
High-resolution emission spectroscopy of CO2 collisionally excited by N2. Rotational distribution

Abstract We obtained, for the first time, high-resolution rotational distribution of CO 2 collisionally excited by N 2 . The rotational distribution is non-Boltzmann, and the initial results suggest that surprisingly large impact parameter collisions contribute substantially to the collisional excitation, even though small impact parameter collisions are more effective, as expected.
Avoiding Sand in the Desert.

The present issue of Behavior Analysis and Practice (BAP) brings together a series of captivating features that are sure to evoke strong responses. For example, the paper by Horner and Sugai on Positive Behavior Intervention Support (PBIS) refreshes the seasoned behavior analyst on how PBIS is alive and well on the front lines of the US education system. For those readers who missed debates about PBIS that flourished in the 1990s, Horner’s current installment can serve as a recap of a significant success story of reaching the mainstream with behavior analysis. Twenty-one thousand plus schools later, PBIS has done what most of us could only imagine—taking our science to the masses and impacting countless lives. Opinions surely vary as to if PBIS is behavioral enough, functional enough, or empirical enough. A series of commentaries follow Horner’s paper all of which offer strong opinions on these “enough” criteria. Successful enough? Love it, hate it, or somewhere in the middle—I think we all would have to say “yes.”
TH-B-204B-01: Advanced Optical Imaging and Tracking Techniques for IGRT

Optical guidance (OG) such as optical distance indicator (ODI) in‐room laser alignment and live‐video camera monitoring has been routinely used in conventional radiotherapy for patient setup and monitoring. Now emerging OG using optical tracking and topologic imaging (stereovision) techniques can provide remote operators with real‐time measurements of patient body (or support apparatus) position shape and movement. The temporal and spatial OG will be an essential component in any advanced image‐guidedradiotherapy(IGRT) when patient or organ motion are considered during the dose delivery. In assisting users to become familiar with the new OG techniques this education session will start with an introduction on basic photogrammetry general camera calibration triangulation principle for 3D optical imagingsurface extraction and registration and what OG systems can and cannot do. Then the session will move to the clinical use of infrared patient positioning and tracking systems (IPT) with particular attention to the combined use with other imagingsystems detection and correction with six degrees of freedom for rigid body displacement and issues in attachment of the infrared reflection markers. That will lead up to actual use ISG integrated stereovision‐guided patient reposition and monitoring systems focusing on quantification of the body position and displacement prior to and during beam or arc irradiation. ISG adaptive radiotherapy of the brain H&N lung and breast cancer will be demonstrated using examples from early clinical trials. The effects of target motion and deformation skin tones and room light conditions are also discussed. Learning Objectives: 1. Understand the spatial and temporal characteristics of advanced OG 2. Understand the basic operation principle of 3D optical systems 3. Know how to check and calibrate the optical camerasystems 4. Understand why multiple infrared reflection markers have to be fastened to the patient 5. Know how to quantify and correct the displacements with six‐degrees of freedom 6. Know how to surrogate optical surfaceimages with CT/MR volumetric images 7. Know how to acquire reliable surfaceimages prior to and during X‐ray irradiation 8. Understand the limits and benefits in application of OG in clinical settings
Dietary change and coronary heart disease.

Abstract Dietary changes a hundred years ago in Europe, America and Australia were needed to feed their growing industrial populations. By 1909 margarines were first made by the hydrogenation of marine oils and, later, vegetable oils as a substitute for butter, thereby introducing saturated fats. The demise of the highly nutritious herring and its oil's hydrogenation into margarines seems to have coincided with a big increase in coronary heart disease (CHD). The Japanese escaped such changes to their rice diet by the influence of the inevitable annual monsoon while southern Europe's CHD immunity may hinge on its permanent olive oil and vitamin C antioxidant staples. Britain's ‘angina pectoris’ probably arose following the enclosures which changed arable (strip) into animal farming in the middle ages but cases rose only slowly from Heberden's 100 in 1802 to McKenzie's 200 by 1923. It seems likely, therefore, that much of the sudden increase to 2000 reported by Maurice Cassidy in 1945, despite the impact of this century's increased longevity on CHD, will be due to dietary change together with smoking's increasing impact.
The binding of penicillin antibiotics to a human liver protein.

Abstract A protein has been isolated from postmortem human livers which binds the penicillin analogs, dicloxacillin, nafcillin and benzylpenicillin, as well as oleic acid. Its molecular weight is in the range 17,000–20,000 and its pI is 5.9. It appears to be similar to a fatty acid-binding protein previously isolated from rat tissues.
Optimal pricing for information goods with piracy and saturation effect

We analyze the pricing decision of a firm selling a product for which there is a significant and continuous saturation effect over time and that can be pirated. Assuming that the firm uses a skimming strategy, we solve three profit maximization models, given demand that is linearly decreasing in price. Few prices can be used over the life of the product. The effects of both piracy and saturation are combined in the first model. In the second model, the firm can invest in technology or copyright enforcement to reduce piracy. The third model describes the case in which piracy leads to increased awareness of the product and increased demand. Numerical sensitivity analysis and examples are used to illustrate the results. The results indicate that under strong piracy and saturation effects, a skimming strategy is suboptimal.
A note on the nonautonomous delay Beverton–Holt model

It is well known that the periodic cycle of a periodically forced nonlinear difference equation is attenuant (resonant) if where {K n } is the carrying capacity of the environment and (arithmetic mean of the p-periodic cycle {t n }). In this article, we extend the concept of attenuance and resonance of periodic cycles using the geometric mean for the average of a periodic cycle. We study the properties of the periodically forced nonautonomous delay Beverton–Holt model where {K n } and {r n } are positive p-periodic sequences; (K n >0, r n >1) as well as k and l are nonnegative integers. We will show that for all positive solutions {x n } of the previous equation In particular, in the case where is a p-periodic solution of the above equation (assuming that such solution exists) and r n =r>1, the periodic cycle is g-attenuant, that is Surprisingly, the obtained results show that the delays k and l do not play any role.
Optimization of memory redundancy laser link processing

Memory repair through the use of laser processing of redundant elements is an industry standard procedure for memory chip manufacturing. But, shrinking memory feature sizes and the industry's tendency to use metals as link materials rather than polysilicon imposes new challenges for laser processing. So far, the majority of the research on memory link laser processing has concentrated on: The vertical structure of a link (such as the multiple layers of passivation, link, field oxidation and silicon substrate); the laser beam absorption; and, the different temperature distribution within the structure as the result of laser beam heating. Until now, the emphasis in laser link processing optimization has been aimed at creating uniform temperature distribution while severing the link before exploding the passivation layer. Our study has shown that the link width plays an important roll in the processing as well. Analysis of the mechanical stress beneath the passivation layer using finite element modeling has been carried out. Different link width and passivation layer thicknesses vary the stress dramatically. The results of this simulation will be presented and their implication on link processing optimization will be discussed. To optimize the laser processing further, we have proven that absorption contrast of laser energy between the link material and the silicon substrate beneath the link must be maximized. Based upon the fact that while the absorption of most metal materials in the 1.3- to 2-micron range remains the same as that at 1 micron, it drops dramatically for silicon. By using laser wavelengths within the 1.3- to 2-micron range, a much wider laser processing window can be realized. Comparison analysis of link processing by different laser wavelengths will be discussed.
Neural correlates of semantic activation spreading on the path to picture naming in adults who stutter.

Abstract Objective On the path to picture naming, words that relate semantically to the pictured object become activated in the mental lexicon. We used a neuroscientific approach to investigate this semantic activation spreading process in adults who stutter (AWS). Methods Fourteen AWS and 14 adults who do not stutter (AWNS) completed a picture–word priming task. On each trial, a picture was named at a delay. On some trials, an unattended auditory probe word was presented after the picture, before naming commenced. Event-related potentials recorded to probe words Semantically-Related to the picture labels, and to probe words Semantically- and Phonologically-Unrelated to the picture labels, were compared using spatial–temporal principal component analysis. Results Posterior N400 amplitude was attenuated for Semantically-Related versus Unrelated probes in AWNS, while in AWS posterior N400 amplitude was enhanced for Semantically-Related versus Unrelated probes. Marginal albeit potentially relevant group differences in the morphology of other ERP components were also observed. Conclusions The posterior N400 results point to a strategic, inhibitory influence on semantic activation spreading in AWS on the path to naming. Group differences in the amplitude of other ERP components tentatively suggest that AWS allocated attentional resources differently than the AWNS during the task. Preliminary ERP evidence of intact conceptual (as opposed to lexical-semantic) priming in the AWS is also discussed. Significance This study contributes to a growing body of research describing linguistic performance in AWS.
The Empowerment Construct in Manager-Executive Relationships

Empowerment is common to both the scholarly and the popular management literature. However, empowerment’s many interpretations have dulled the concept as a research tool. Here, empowerment is separated into perceived environment and individual behavior components. The linkage between organization environment and managerial behavior is tested with a population of 23 effective managers. It is found that an accepting or empowering environment increases the probability that the effective manager will undertake activities outside the job description, but that an empowering environment is not necessary for effective middle-manager behavior.
Titanate Anodes for Sodium Ion Batteries

For reasons of cost and supply security issues, there is growing interest in the development of rechargeable sodium ion batteries, particularly for large-scale grid storage applications. Like the much better known and technologically important lithium ion analogs, the devices operate by shuttling alkali metal cations between two host materials, which undergo insertion processes at different electrochemical potentials. A particular challenge for the sodium systems is identification of a suitable anode material due to the fact that sodium does not intercalate into graphite. Although several alternatives, including disordered carbons and alloys are being investigated, the most promising options at present lie with titanates, not in the least because of attractive characteristics such as low toxicity, ease of synthesis, wide availability, and low cost. A large variety of sodium titanate compounds can be prepared, many of which have tunnel or layered structures that can readily undergo reversible reductive intercalation reactions. A brief overview of the physical, structural, and electrochemical characteristics of several of the most promising materials for sodium-ion battery applications is given in this paper, and a comparison is made between the sodium and the lithium insertion behaviors. For some of these compounds, insertion of sodium occurs at unusually low potentials, a feature that has important implications for the design of high-energy sodium-ion systems.
Comparison of various stopping gases for 3He-based position sensitive neutron detectors

Abstract A range of solid state, scintillator and gas based detectors are being developed for use at the next generation of high flux neutron facilities. Since gas detectors are expected to continue to play a key role in future specific thermal neutron experiments, a comparison of the performance characteristics of prospective stopping gases is beneficial. Gas detectors typically utilize the reaction 3He(n,p)t to detect thermal neutrons; the 3He gas is used in a mixture containing a particular stopping gas in order to maintain relatively short ranges for the proton and triton pair emitted from the n-3He reaction. Common stopping gases include hydrocarbons (e.g. propane), carbon tetrafluoride, and noble gases such as argon and xenon. For this study, we utilized the Monte Carlo simulation code “Stopping and Range of Ions in Matter” to analyze the expected behavior of argon, xenon, carbon dioxide, difluoroethane and octafluoropropane as stopping gases for thermal neutron detectors. We also compare these findings to our previously analyzed performance of propane, butane and carbon tetrafluoride. A discussion of these gases includes their behavior in terms of proton and triton range, ionization distribution and straggle.
Reoperative Soft Tissue Trauma

Trauma remains the leading cause of death in the first 4 decades of life and is surpassed only by cancer and atherosclerotic disease as the overall leading causes of death in the United States. Many of the injuries involve the facial region, including soft tissue trauma. This article highlights the current available modalities used in the management of unsightly scars or those scars whose location and appearance compromise function.
A framework for establishing, assessing, and managing trust in inter-organizational relationships

In this paper, we present an efficient, novel framework for establishing, assessing, and managing trust in inter-organizational relationships, in terms of allowable network sharing, that is based on analyzing an invariance property of a computer network environment. Our goal is to answer the following two questions: (1) From any given host in one network, what level of access, direct or indirect, is implied to each host in another network? This addresses the consequences of connecting two networks on access levels between networks. (2) What are the effects, in terms of access internal to a given network, of connecting to another network? This addresses the consequences of connecting two networks on access levels internal to a given network. Answers to these questions allow an informed business decision to be made as to whether the proposed network sharing should be allowed, and, if so, what the consequences of this network sharing are. We utilize the host-centric model in the design of our model to compactly represent and efficiently analyze the access graphs of shared network environments. We present an efficient algorithm for computing the highest achievable accesses between host pairs that are within a network and that are accessible between the shared networks due to an interconnecting edge. We use the algorithm to assess the consequences of the proposed network sharing accesses.
Wind-tunnel study of effects of geometry modification on aerodynamics of a cable-stayed bridge deck

Abstract The results of a wind-tunnel study of the aerodynamic response and stability of a cable-stayed bridge deck are presented. A bridge section model was employed in smooth flow and the effects of modifying the bridge geometry were investigated. The results showed that the original bridge deck was unstable in torsion and exhibited high, vertex-induced, vertical oscillation. Streamlining of the deck resulted in improved aerodynamic performance, with an increase in the critical wind speed for torsional flutter and decrease in the vortex-induced response.
Edoxaban was noninferior to warfarin for preventing recurrent venous thromboembolism, with less bleeding

Source Citation Hokusai-VTE Investigators. Edoxaban versus warfarin for the treatment of symptomatic venous thromboembolism. N Engl J Med. 2013;369:1406-15. 23991658
Increased Soybean Pubescence Density

Soybean mosaic virus (SMV) infection of double-cropped soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] is likely to reduce yield due to soybean flowering date occurring after the start of aphid (Aphis spp.) movement that spreads the virus. Increased pubescence density provides a mechanical barrier to aphid probing that may delay SMV infection until after flowering, a strain-nonspecific resistance mechanism. The objectives of this study were to (i) evaluate the resistance benefit derived from increased pubescence density and the resulting reduction in incidence of SMV infection in soybean double-cropping systems, and (ii) compare the yield of soybean having increased pubescence density with the yield of genetically resistant genotypes of normal pubescence. Thirty soybean lines in three maturity sets with combinations of normal, dense, and extra-dense pubescence and SMV-resistant and -susceptible alleles were grown for 3 yr in late-planted tests at Lexington, KY. Inoculated border rows provided the virus source for natural aphid transmission of SMV. Extra-dense pubescence significantly reduced the incidence of SMV infection at R1 and R6 and produced a delay parameter on disease progress curves where the maximum disease increase was after flowering. In the late maturity set where the incidence of SMV infection on normal-pubescence SMV-susceptible genotypes was greater than 20%, extra-dense pubescence provided the same SMV resistance yield benefit as the Rsv 1 y resistance allele. The mean yield of extra-dense pubescence genotypes, however, was less than that of normal- and dense-pubescence genotypes.
The Basic Concepts Related to Returns on Earnings Regressions

Abstract This paper revisits the familiar problem of specifying empirical regressions of returns on price-normalised earnings variables. The focus is on relevant organising concepts related to the right-hand-side variables / regressors. Issues raised are: (i) the crucial role of assuming market efficiency; (ii) why the notion of “unexpected earnings explain unexpected returns” obscures rather than highlights the nature of the regression specification; (iii) why a regression specification benefits from the inclusion of the prior period's earnings in addition to contemporaneous earnings; (iv) why the start-of-period book value-to-price ratio should be included as a regressor; (v) why an hypothesis relating accounting data, such as eps and bvps, to price per share precedes a regression on returns specification; (vi) how the analysis extends to include analysts' eps expectations, and changes in eps expectations, as (price-normalised) regressors.
Effects of Forage Quality and Cell Wall Constituents of Bermuda Grass on Biochemical Conversion to Ethanol

Bermuda grass is an attractive candidate as a feedstock for biofuel production because over four million hectares of Bermuda grass are already grown for forage in the Southern USA. Because both rumen digestion and biochemical conversion to ethanol depend upon enzymatic conversion of the cell wall polysaccharides into fermentable sugars, it is probable that grasses bred for increased forage quality would be more amenable for ethanol production. However, it is not known how variation in rumen digestibility and cell wall/fiber components correlates with efficiency of conversion to ethanol via fermentation. The objective of this research was to determine relationships between ethanol production evaluated by simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF), 72-h in vitro ruminal dry matter digestibility (IVDMD), in vitro ruminal gas production after 24 and 96 h, and biomass composition for 50 genetically diverse Bermuda grass accessions. The Bermuda grass samples were subjected to standard 72-h IVDMD and forage fiber analyses. Also, in separate labs, gas production was measured in sealed volume-calibrated vials after 24 (NNG24) and 96 h (NNG96) of in vitro fermentation by ruminal fluid; ethanol and pentose sugar productions were measured from a bench-top SSF procedure; cell wall constituents were determined by the Uppsala Dietary Fiber Method; and total nitrogen, carbon, and ash concentrations were determined by using the LECO combustion method. Ethanol production was moderately correlated with IVDMD (r = 0.55) and NNG96 (r = 0.63) but highly correlated with NNG24 (r = 0.93). Ethanol was negatively correlated with neutral detergent fiber (NDF; r = −0.53) and pentose sugars (r = −0.60), but not correlated with glucose content. Regression models indicated that NDF and cell wall pentose sugar concentrations had significant negative effects on ethanol production. Variation among entries for IVDMD was affected by variability of NDF, pentose sugar concentrations, and biomass nitrogen content. Variation in Klason lignin content had only minor negative impacts on ethanol production and IVDMD. Biochemical conversion efficiency of Bermuda grass by SSF can be best estimated by NNG24 but not by IVDMD.
Origin of vortical action as the fabric of the universe

The most prominent mode of action in the universe, from the largest to the smallest identifiable object, is noted to be that of a vortical motion. If this were not true, the universe as we know it could not exist. For example: the universe has billions of galactic systems, with each galaxy consisting of billions of stars spinning like a disk around a massive black hole. For ever-smaller scales within the same system, there are planets around a star and then moons around a planet. Within a planet we have hurricanes, tornadoes, and small line vortices. Down to the subatomic level, there are electrons and subatomic elements that might now also be taken as vortical string-like matters. Hence, it is the primary objective of this paper to find out the origin and properties of this fundamental action that constitutes the fabric of our universe.
The Occurrence and Non-Occurrence of the Japanese Direct Object Marker "o" in Conversation

Although in written Japanese grammatical relations such as subject and object are marked by postpositional particles, in informal conversation they may occur without any particles. This paper examines the occurrence and non-occurrence of the direct object marker o in spontaneous informal conversation and clarifies that the choice of object marking is a device to facilitate selective focusing on information. Our study shows that zero-marking is the unmarked option for marking direct objects and o is used when the information indicated by the direct object NP is salient in the discourse or when cognitive processing requires some additonal effort.