cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A case-control analysis of felony convictions among recreational drug users.

This study applied an epidemiologic case-control design to the identification of variables predicting which subjects in a population of recreational drug users were likely to have a felony conviction. A sample of 158 self-identified drug users responded to the web-based DRUGNET survey from February, 1997 through June, 1998. In this sample of 704 U.S. citizens who reported using illicit drugs, 79 (11.2%) reported having a drug-related felony conviction. A further 52 (7.4%) subjects reported felony convictions not related to drugs. Control subjects were drawn from the same sample and matched to cases on sex, age, and ethnicity. Subjects with drug-related convictions differed significantly from controls on 13 variables and those with nondrug-related convictions differed on 11 variables out of the 82 used in this study. Although there are major limitations given the self-selection of the sample, the differences between the groups indicates that we should be wary in generalizing from the minority of drug users...
Neoliberalism: A Useful Tool for Teaching Critical Topics in Political Science

Neoliberalism is one of the most pervasive and contested concepts of our contemporary era. Thus, it is essential for students to gain an understanding of its history, meaning, assumptions, and policy prescriptions. In addition to recognizing the importance of neoliberalism in the current political discourse, I argue that the polarized responses to the concept provide opportunities for teaching about critical topics in political science. This article provides suggestions for teaching about six such topics through the lens of neoliberal policies such as free trade, structural adjustment, and privatization.
Proximal-isometric (P J) flows☆

Abstract We develop some new tools for the study of minimal transformation groups (flows) and apply these tools to extend the classification theory of minimal flows to a larger class than has previously been classified. The tools we develop arise from a simplification and unification of the techniques used by Furstenberg, Ellis, and Veech in their proofs of structure theorems about distal and point distal flows. This simplification is made possible largely through the use of recent results of Glasner on the structure of 2X (whose points consist of closed subsets of the phase space X of a given flow).
Effects of discharge on silver loading and transport in the Quinnipiac River, Connecticut.

Abstract Silver concentrations were measured in water and sediment samples collected from the Quinnipiac River in Connecticut. This river was chosen for study because of its history of industrialization and high levels of Ag contamination. Sewage treatment plant (STP) effluent accounts for ∼15% of the total river discharge and ∼60% of the dissolved Ag in the water column during baseflow conditions. Erosion of contaminated riverbank sediment is the primary source of particulate Ag in the river. Both dissolved and particulate Ag fractions vary as a function of river discharge. Increased discharge due to rain events decreases the relative importance of STP effluent, and thus dilutes the dissolved Ag concentration in the water column. Conversely, increasing discharge results in higher particulate Ag concentrations from increased erosion. The results of this study clearly indicate that both point and non-point sources contribute significantly to Ag loading in this river system, with the level of river discharge determining the relative importance of each.
Altruism and Sympathy: Their History in Philosophy and Some Implications for Psychology

In their attempt to give rational foundations to the commonsense belief that one ought to help other people, philosophers have resorted to a wide range of theories making such diverse factors as self-realization, pleasure, or duty the motivators of helping behavior. Their theoretical explorations have led to rethinking the basic concepts of “self” and “other” as preparatory to answering the question of what principles ought to or might govern helping relations between people. Recent psychological investigations fall short in the area of theoretical articulation of basic concepts and rely too much on common sense meanings. Refinement of concepts can result from fuller attention to personality factors, personality theory, and the many different social contexts of helping.
Description of Chemisorption Kinetics on a Heterogeneous Amorphous Solid Surface

The approximate analytical solutions for integral equations including γ distribution on the chemisorption rate constant as well as γ, normal, or uniform distribution functions on the distance between neighboring sites, taking into account the lateral interaction between chemisorbed species in mean-field approximation, for kinetic isotherms on an amorphous random and patchwise heterogeneous solid surface have been obtained. Influence of parameters of these functions on the shape of simulated kinetic isotherms and on the moments of distribution on observable rate constants have been studied. Satisfactory agreement between the present model predictions and experimental kinetic isotherms obtained for the chemisorption of organosilicon compound on the surface of pyrogenic silica has been found.
The patient as shaper of required parental behavior: A case study

Abstract A 16-yr-old male was brought by his parents for treatment of extreme disruptive behaviors at home and school: stealing, lying, arguing, disobeying and truancy. After attempts at enlisting parental participation in an operant program failed, the son was instructed in applying basic reinforcement and extinction principles to increase positive parental responses to his appropriate behaviors, and extinguish their responses to his inappropriate behaviors. After 12 weeks there was marked improvement. Three follow-up sessions over 9 months found stability in the improved relationship.
Reduced expression of biomarkers associated with the implantation window in women with endometriosis

Objective To evaluate the expression of biomarkers of implantation, glycodelin A (GdA), osteopontin (OPN), lysophosphatidic acid receptor 3 (LPA3), and HOXA10, in eutopic endometrium of women with and without endometriosis. Design Prospective observational study. Setting Clinical research center. Patient(s) Twenty-four women with endometriosis and 23 healthy volunteers of similar age. Intervention(s) Secretory phase endometrial biopsy. Main Outcome Measure(s) Expression of immunohistochemical staining intensity and localization of GdA, OPN, LPA3, and HOXA10 in eutopic endometrium. Result(s) Endometrial GdA expression was significantly reduced in patients after cycle day 22. The endometrium from women with endometriosis also showed decreased expression of OPN in the late secretory phase and LPA3 and HOXA10 expression in the midsecretory and late secretory phases. Conclusion(s) The decreased expression of these four biomarkers of implantation may indicate impaired endometrial receptivity in patients with endometriosis, providing one explanation for the subfertility observed even in women with few pelvic implants. Because many of these markers are P dependent, these findings suggest the possibility of reduced endometrial P action in this population.
Effect of removal of the apical ectodermal ridge on the rate of cell division in the subridge mesenchyme of the embryonic chick wing

Abstract The apical ectodermal ridge of the embryonic chick limb has been demonstrated to be essential for normal limb outgrowth and development. However, the rate of cell division in the mesenchyme close to the ridge has been found to be similar to the rate of cell division in other regions of the limb. In the present experiments, the rate of cell division in the mesenchyme close to the ridge and in three other regions of the limb in normal limbs has been compared with the rate of cell division in the same four regions after removal of the ridge. It has been found that removal of the apical ectodermal ridge has no effect on the rate of cell division in any region of the limb.
Considerations for Isochronous Data Services over the Proximity-1 Space Link

Future mission concepts for robotic and human explorations will involve a high level of real time control/monitoring operations such as tele-operation for spacecraft rendezvous and surface mobile platforms carrying life-support equipments. The timely dissemination of voice, command, and real-time telemetry for monitoring and coordination purposes is critical for mission success. It is envisioned that future missions will require a network infrastructure capable of supporting isochronous data services. The CCSDS Proximity-1 Space Link Protocol1 could be used to provide isochronous service over the surface-to-Earth relay as well as "beyond-the-horizon" communications between distant Lunar or Mars surface elements. This paper will analyze the latency, jitter, and throughput performance of the Proximity-1 protocol for isochronous applications. In particular we will focus on constrained scenarios where the protocol operates in full-duplex mode, carrying isochronous traffic in one direction and error-controlled traffic in the other direction. We analyze the impact of the strict priority scheme in Proximity-1 on delay jitter and the impact of the isochronous traffic on the efficiency of the reliable data transfer in the other direction, and discuss methods for performance optimization. In general, jitter performance is driving by relative loading of isochronous traffic on the forward link compared to the acknowledgement traffic. Under light loading condition, the upper-bound of the delay jitter is the transmission duration of an acknowledgement frame on the forward link; for higher loading scenarios, the maximum jitter is scaled up by the inverse of the residual bandwidth, i.e., the spare capacity available in the forward link to carry isochronous traffic.
Fourth Estate or Mouthpiece? A Formal Model of Media, Protest, and Government Repression

New media dramatically increase citizens’ access to information and decrease governments’ ability to control the flow of communication. Although human rights nongovernmental organizations have advocated that access to independent news media will improve government respect for human rights, recent empirical studies have shown this is not always the case. We posit that media independence and the presence or absence of democratic characteristics, in particular political competition, have substantial effects on government repression because these factors determine the degree to which the government is vulnerable to public pressures. The model developed here includes three equations that encompass the impact of interaction between and among the news media, citizens, and government. The first equation specifies the influences on the news media’s decision whether or not to perform a “watchdog” role regarding government repression. The second equation represents public reaction to the news media’s coverage of government repression (i.e., protest). Here access to news media via traditional and new media is an important factor. The third equation represents government repression. Solutions to the system of equations are derived for four scenarios (a) Democracy and media independence are both present, (b) democracy is present but media independence is absent, (c) democracy is absent (autocracy) and media independence is present, and (d) democracy is absent (autocracy) and media independence is absent. We then consider interesting properties of the anticipated behavior from the government, media, and general public through case illustrations for the Netherlands and Myanmar/Burma. [Supplementary material is available for this article. Go to the publisher’s online edition of Political Communication for the following free supplemental resource: two additional case illustrations (Tanzania and Brazil).]
Eating Event Detection by Magnetic Proximity Sensing

Eating event detection is an important problem in automatic dietary study using a wearable computer, such as the eButton. In this work, we approach this detection problem based on the use of a small magnet marker attached to a finger and a miniature magnetometer installed within the eButton. Our experimental results indicate that our magnetic approach is effective when the distance between the marker and the wearable computer is within 12cm, and the range of detection is approximately 15cm. We also found that the proximity signal patterns corresponding to eating and other daily activities are different, which can be used to reduce the false detection rate. In addition, our approach is convenient, low-cost and energy efficient, suitable for practical applications.
Effect of annealing on electrical properties of radio-frequency-sputtered ZnO films

We report on the electrical properties of ZnO films and devices grown on different substrates by radio-frequency magnetron sputtering. The films grown on c-plane sapphire were annealed in the range 800–1,000°C. The electron concentration increased with annealing temperature reaching 1.4×1019 cm−3 for 1,000°C. Mobility also increased, however, reaching its maximum value 64.4 cm2/V · sec for 950°C anneal. High-performance Schottky diodes were fabricated on ZnO films grown on n-type 6H-SiC by depositing Au/Ni(300/300 A). After annealing at 900°C, the leakage current (at −5 V reverse bias) decreased from 2.2 × 10−7 A to ∼5.0 × 10−8 A after annealing at 900°C, the forward current increased by a factor of 2, and the ideality factor decreased from 1.5 to 1.03. The ZnO films were also grown on p-type 6H-SiC, and n-ZnO/p-SiC heterostructure diodes were fabricated. The p-n diode performance increased dramatically after annealing at 950°C. The leakage current decreased from 2.0×10−4 A to 3.0×10−7 A at −10 V reverse bias, and the forward current increased slightly from 2.7 mA to 3.9 mA at 7 V forward bias; the ideality factor of the annealed diode was estimated as 2.2, while that for the as-grown sample was considerably higher.
Reaction of Pyrrole and Chlorauric Acid A New Route to Composite Colloids

Composite colloids of gold and polypyrrole were prepared using two different methods: 1, using pyrrole colloid, created by the oxidation of pyrrole by ferric chloride, to subsequently reduce chlorauric acid and, 2, oxidizing pyrrole monomer with chlorauric acid in a sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate solution. In each case, the polypyrrole colloid consisted of irregularly shaped particles approximately 500 nm in diameter. The gold produced in each case was in the form of irregular spheres, approximately 407 nm in diameter in method 1 and 13 nm in method 2. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy was used to determine the oxidation state of the species present. Transmission electron microscopy and light scattering data were used to determine the particle sizes of both gold and polypyrrole colloids. Energy dispersed spectrum X-ray analysis and electron diffraction were used to confirm the presence of metallic gold in the composite colloids. The second-order rate constant for the reaction of chlorauric acid with pyrrole in dilute solution was found to he 13 M -1 s -1 . Aqueous solutions of palladium, platinum, rhodium, cobalt, tin, silver, zinc, nickel, titanium, cadmium, mercury, arsenic, and selenium were also examined for their potential to act as oxidants to produce composite polypyrrole colloids. Palladium, platinum, and rhodium salts were suitable oxidants, producing polypyrrole in less than 12 h.
Developments in broadband antennas

A survey is presented for the purpose of providing the nonspecialist with a basic understanding of the remarkable advances that have taken place over the past decade in the field of broadband antennas
Recent Mechanical Cultivation of Lawns Enhances Lime Application Efficacy

While the relationship between soil acidity and thatch accumulation in maintained lawns has been reported, interacting effects of cultivation and surface lime applications on soil acidity have not. The experimental objective was to determine how antecedent mechanical cultivation of mature turfgrasses interacts with surface application of liming agents to neutralize soil acidity within the upper and lower depth segments of a hectare furrow slice (2.24 x 10 6 kg soil). Various liming agents were applied to three lawn systems, each afflicted with soil acidity and thatch accumulations, at rates from 0 to 200% of soil test lime recommendations (LR). In Experiment 1, resulting active acidity (pHw) was measured in the 0 to 5 (thatch excluded) and 5 to 10 cm soil depths over 23 mo. In Experiments 2 and 3, described lime applications followed mechanical cultivation treatments; core aeration, vertical mowing, or none. Resulting pHw and exchangeable acidity (pH KCl ) were measured in 0 to 6 (thatch excluded) and 6 to 12 cm soil depths after 1 or 2 yr. Application of the prescribed LR (100%) to uncultivated surfaces did not increase 5 to 10 or 6 to 12 cm pHw levels above unlimed plot levels. One or 2 yr following either lime application rate, statistically higher pH KCl values corresponded to either cultivation treatment in the 6 to 12 cm soil depth. Mechanical cultivation, conducted before surface application of the LR, accelerated the rate of acid neutralization throughout the 0 to 12 cm soil depths of mature lawn systems.
REGIONS OF SIGNIFICANT CRITERION DIFFERENCES IN APTITUDE‐TREATMENT‐INTERACTION RESEARCH1

Three techniques (Johnson-Neyman, Potthoff, & Erlander & Gustavsson) for obtaining confidence regions for the difference between regression surfaces are compared. The techniques are potentially useful for analyzing data from aptitude-treatment-interaction research (ATI). The three techniques are found to yield substantially different sized confidence regions when applied to the same data, therefore possibly leading to different decisions in an aptitude-treatment-interaction study.
Modulation of human 5-lipoxygenase activity by membrane lipids

Mammalian 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO) catalyzes the conversion of arachidonic acid (AA) to leukotrienes, potent inflammatory mediators. 5-LO is activated by a Ca(2+)-mediated translocation to membranes, and demonstrates the characteristic features of interfacially activated enzymes, yet the mechanism of membrane binding of 5-LO is not well understood. In an attempt to understand the mechanism of lipid-mediated activation of 5-LO, we have studied the effects of a large set of lipids on human recombinant 5-LO activity, as well as mutual structural effects of 5-LO and membranes. In the presence of 0.35 mM phosphatidylcholine (PC) and 0.2 mM Ca(2+), there was substrate inhibition at >100 microM AA. Data analysis at low AA concentrations yielded the following: K(m) approximately 103 microM and k(cat) approximately 56 s(-1). 5-LO activity was supported by PC more than by any other lipid tested except for a cationic lipid, which was more stimulatory than PC. Binding of 5-LO to zwitterionic and acidic membranes was relatively weak; the extent of binding increased 4-8 times in the presence of Ca(2+), whereas binding to cationic membranes was stronger and essentially Ca(2+)-independent. Polarized attenuated total reflection infrared experiments implied that 5-LO binds to membranes at a defined orientation with the symmetry axis of the putative N-terminal beta-barrel tilted approximately 45 degrees from the membrane normal. Furthermore, membrane binding of 5-LO resulted in dehydration of the membrane surface and was paralleled with stabilization of the structures of both 5-LO and the membrane. Our results provide insight into the understanding of the effects of membrane surface properties on 5-LO-membrane interactions and the interfacial activation of 5-LO.
Subscale classification schemata for the Stanford-Binet, form L-M

366 Stanford-Binet (S-B) protocols were scored according to subscale categories proposed by Valett (1963–64), Sattler (1965), and Meeker (1969). The mean age of the Ss was 9.24 years and the mean IQ was 99.43. Intercorrelations were computed for the subscales, sex, socioeconomic status, mental age, and vocabulary score and factor analyses performed on each of the subscale intercorrelation matrices. The intercorrelations were significant for all variables except sex. Only one general factor was found for each of the schemata. It was concluded that in the absence of factorial validity, the use of such subscales is invalid.
Nuestro Espacia Cyber: The Internet as Expressive Space for Latina/os in the United States

The Latina/o community is in the midst of a major demographic shift upwards. Along with this population growth, there has been an explosion of Latina/os across the spectrum of popular culture. However, lack of access to mass-media outlets and social constructions in mainstream society pose obstacles to Latina/ofreedom of expression. Meanwhile, the internet is evolving into a powerful platform for communication and freedom of speech. By developing a stronger Latina/o presence on-line, it may be possible to channel the power of the internet as a vehicle for empowerment, expression and freedom of speech.
Observations of magnetic flux compression in jet impact experiments

The astrophysical jet experiment at Caltech generates a T=2–5 eV, n=10^(21)–10^(22) m^(−3) plasma jet using coplanar disk electrodes linked by a poloidal magnetic field. A 100 kA current generates a toroidal magnetic field; the toroidal field pressure inflates the poloidal flux surface, magnetically driving the jet. The jet travels at up to 50 km/s for ∼20–25 cm before colliding with a cloud of initially neutral gas. We study the interaction of the jet and the cloud in analogy to an astrophysical jet impacting a molecular cloud. Diagnostics include magnetic probe arrays, a 12-channel spectroscopic system and a fast camera with optical filters. When a hydrogen plasma jet collides with an argon target cloud, magnetic measurements show the magnetic flux compressing as the plasma jet deforms. As the plasma jet front slows and the plasma piles up, the density of the frozen-in magnetic flux increases.
Fast motion vector estimation for video coding based on multiresolution-spatiotemporal correlations

In this paper, we propose a new fast algorithm for motion vector (MV) estimation based on correlations of MVs existing in spatially and temporally adjacent as well as hierarchically related blocks. The main idea is to select a good set of MV candidates with information obtained at the coarser resolution level and spatio-temporal blocks at the same level, and then perform further local search to refine the MV result. The experimental results show that the proposed fast algorithm achieves a speed-up factor ranging from 150 to 310 with only 2 - 7% MSE increase in comparison with the full search block matching algorithm on typical test video sequences.© (1996) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Does the Medium Matter? A Comparison of a Web-Based Tutorial with Face-to-Face Library Instruction on Education Students' Self-Efficacy Levels and Learning Outcomes.

Abstract This study explored if students' library skills self-efficacy levels and learning outcomes varied based on instructional delivery mode. Groups consisted of an on-campus class with face-to-face instruction, an on-campus class with a Web-based library tutorial, and a Web-based class with a Web-based tutorial. Data were collected immediately prior to instruction and again 6 weeks after. Analysis indicated self-efficacy levels and learning outcomes significantly increased across all groups after instruction. Groups varied significantly on final self-efficacy levels, but not on final library skills scores. Results are discussed as they relate to the viability of Web-based tutorials for library instruction.
Making R & D management work

Is your company wondering how to manage the R&D function? If so, Dr. Steele's book is worth reading. It is written by an expert (Ph.D. from MIT with 20 years experience) in non‐technical language. This is in keeping with the book's implied message that R&D is too important to be left to technicians. Prior to World War II, R&D was tertiary enough to ignore, or leave to the scientists to manage, which amounted to much the same thing. Now that R&D represents about 2.3% of GNP, or over $30 billion, companies are challenged to translate R&D expenditures into commercial sales.
Distribution of sperm in male rabbits after various ejaculation frequencies

Twenty-five mature rabbits were assigned in groups of five to be ejaculated at one of the following frequencies for a period of six weeks: Sexual rest (SR), one ejaculation on Friday (1 × F), four ejaculations on Friday (4 × F), one ejaculation daily Monday through Saturday (1 × M–S), and two ejaculations Monday, Wednesday, and Friday (2 × MWF). Upon slaughter after SR, the average distributions of sperm in the capita-corpora epididymides, caudae epididymides, and ductus deferentia were 184, 1,028, and 86 × 106, respectively. Ejaculation at each frequency significantly reduced the numbers of sperm found in the caudae epididymides, but neither weights of nor sperm numbers in the capitacorpora epididymides were affected by ejaculation frequency. While 79 ± 3% of extragonadal sperm were found in the caudae epididymides after SR, only 27 ± 5% were found there after 4 × F. This depletion of sperm represents 64% of those considered available for ejaculation. The data indicate that the ductus deferentia and ampullae of rabbits contain insufficient sperm to account for those normally found in a single ejaculum, and that the caudae epididymides are the immediate sources of most ejaculated sperm. The average calculated daily sperm production (82 × 106) was not affected by ejaculation frequency (P > 0.10).
A fast small-angle rejection system for focal plane polarimeters

Abstract We have built and tested a system that can rapidly reject focal plane polarimeter events whose scattering angle is less than some predetermined minimum value. This produces both a greater system live time and a significant enhancement in the proportion of useful events in the recorded data. The test is based on a pattern recognition scheme employing the LeCroy memory lookup unit. A system decision time of 180 ns has been achieved.
The growth of ZnSe single crystals by physical vapor transport

ZnSe single crystals have been grown in sealed quartz ampoules by the physical vapor transport method. Complete transport of the starting material and single site growth have been achieved with no material adhering to the ampoule wall. Growth is initiated in a narrow channel in the cold finger attached to the growth end of the ampoule. The highest growth rate to date has been 280 mg/day which corresponds to an average transport rate of about 1.93 mmol/day. The largest single crystal, measuring 1 cm x 4 mm x 2 mm, had a total growing time of 11 days or an average growth rate of 171 mg/day.
Transition From Soliton to Chaotic Motion Following Sudden Excitation of a Nonlinear Structure

The existence of a transition from soliton-like motions to spatially and temporally disordered motions in a periodic structure with buckling nonlinearity is demonstrated. An experiment consisting of nine harmonic oscillators coupled with buckling sensitive elastica was constructed. This experiment is modeled using a modified Toda lattice. As has been shown in previous work, the experiment and the model show strong sensitivity to initial conditions. Here we show that this sensitivity may be related to a transition from relatively ordered solitary wave motion, immediately following the impact, to disordered motions at a later time. Some of the behavior of the observed wave structures is explained using Toda’s analytical results; however, the reasons for the break-up of the waves and their role in the generation of spatio-temporal disorder is not fully understood. We speculate that some type of transient chaotic motion is responsible for the observed behavior. These findings are relevant to aircraft, ship, and space structures that are subjected to large dynamic loads.
Side effects: cultural constructions and reinterpretations of western pharmaceuticals.

In drug development and marketing multinational companies tend to patronize developing countries and even raise health risks by distributing products of questionable utility. The World Health Organization has pushed for standardization and quality assurance of drugs to compel companies to fully disclose adverse reactions. Clinical trials use small and unrepresentative samples thus longterm side effects are not taken into consideration such as steroid-induced hypertension in asthma patients. Unintended side effects are true side effects in the view of some (hair loss and lacrimation in anticoagulant therapy). Reactions that encompass primary and secondary effects include allergic reactions hypersensitivity and the corollaries of differential drug metabolism (serum albumin polymorphisms G6PD deficiency hemoglobinopathies and hepatic enzyme irregularities). Primary action and side effects are subject to interpretations as the antihistamine Benadryl causes drowsiness when used for allergies but as a sedative its ability to induce drowsiness is the primary action. Minoxidil promotes hair growth but it was originally developed as an oral hypotensive and it also could treat impotence. RU-486 or mifepristone the abortion pill has been used for glaucoma and brain tumor treatment. The Hausa of Nigeria use both indigenous plant medicines and drugs but their cultural interpretation of drug effects can lead to confusion: bitter plants have been used as abortifacients and the bitter drugs chloroquine penicillin and chloramphenicol have also been endowed with such qualities. Stomach aliments are treated with chile pepper coffee senna and balsam apple along with erythromycin and salicylates to induce purging. The tooth discoloration caused by tetracycline therapy is imputed to witchcraft. A more relativistic approach concerning the side effects of drugs is needed as their perception in many cultures is conceptually different.
Novel and general approach to linear filter design for contrast-to-noise ratio enhancement of magnetic resonance images with multiple interfering features in the scene

Maximizing the minimum absolute contrast-to-noise ratios (CNRs) between a desired feature and multiple interfering processes, by linear combination of images in a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scene sequence, is attractive for MRI analysis and interpretation. A general formulation of the problem is presented, along with a novelsolution utilizing the simple and numerically stable method of Gram-Schmidt orthogonallzation. We derive explicit solutions for the case of two interfering features first, then for three interfering features, and, finally, using a typical example, for an arbitrary number of interfering features. For the case of two interfering features, we also provide simplified analytical expressions for the signal-to-noise ratios(SNRs)and CNRs ofthe filtered images. The technique is demonstrated through its applications to simulatedand acquiredMRl scene sequences of a human brain with a cerebralinfarction. For these applications, a 50 to 100% improvement for the smallest absolute CNR is obtained.
A statistical framework for differential network analysis from microarray data

It has been long well known that genes do not act alone; rather groups of genes act in consort during a biological process. Consequently, the expression levels of genes are dependent on each other. Experimental techniques to detect such interacting pairs of genes have been in place for quite some time. With the advent of microarray technology, newer computational techniques to detect such interaction or association between gene expressions are being proposed which lead to an association network. While most microarray analyses look for genes that are differentially expressed, it is of potentially greater significance to identify how entire association network structures change between two or more biological settings, say normal versus diseased cell types. We provide a recipe for conducting a differential analysis of networks constructed from microarray data under two experimental settings. At the core of our approach lies a connectivity score that represents the strength of genetic association or interaction between two genes. We use this score to propose formal statistical tests for each of following queries: (i) whether the overall modular structures of the two networks are different, (ii) whether the connectivity of a particular set of "interesting genes" has changed between the two networks, and (iii) whether the connectivity of a given single gene has changed between the two networks. A number of examples of this score is provided. We carried out our method on two types of simulated data: Gaussian networks and networks based on differential equations. We show that, for appropriate choices of the connectivity scores and tuning parameters, our method works well on simulated data. We also analyze a real data set involving normal versus heavy mice and identify an interesting set of genes that may play key roles in obesity. Examining changes in network structure can provide valuable information about the underlying biochemical pathways. Differential network analysis with appropriate connectivity scores is a useful tool in exploring changes in network structures under different biological conditions. An R package of our tests can be downloaded from the supplementary website http://www.somnathdatta.org/Supp/DNA .
Control of chirality normal to the interface of hexagonal magnetic and nonmagnetic layers

We study the net chirality created by the Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction (DMI) at the boundary between hexagonal layers of magnetic and nonmagnetic materials. It is shown that another mechanism besides elastic torsion is required to understand the change in chirality observed in Dy/Y multilayers during field cooling. This Rapid Communication demonstrates that, due to the overlap between magnetic and nonmagnetic atoms, interfacial steps may produce a DMI normal to the interface in magnetic heterostructures.
Characteristic Vertical Patterns Of Particles, Oxygen, And Chlorophyll Pigments In The North Pacific Gyre

Characteristic vertical patterns of suspended particles, dissolved oxygen, and chlorophyll pigments in the North Pacific Gyre indicate that particle and oxygen maxima are found together in the upper part of the seasonal thermocline. The chlorophyll maximum is typically found 30 to 50 m below the particle maximum. The depth of the particle and oxygen maxima respond closely to changes in the mixed layer depth, but the chlorophyll maximum does not. The chlorophyll maximum is not only separated from the oxygen and particle maxima, but it is also little affected by changes in the surface mixed layer, suggesting that the chlorophyll maximum has its own origin different from that of the particle and oxygen maxima. Profiles of dissolved oxygen show that the high oxygen concentration layer extends to approximately 400 m, well below the euphotic zone, which points out that the primary source of the oxygen in this layer is the surface waters sunk in the high latitude Pacific and spread out in the gyre. Photosynthetical production of oxygen would be added on to the already oxygen rich water, but its net contribution appears relatively small since the oxygen concentration in the euphotic zone is not significantly higher than in the water below. Such a secondary role of the photosynthetic production of oxygen is also supported by the nutrient profiles; nutrient concentrations are uniformly low in the surface water down to the nutracline at approximately 120 m allowing only a low photosynthesis rate. The most significant change in the vertical pattern of beam attenuation coefficients is expected from the seasonal progress in the mixed layer since the attenuation maximum and the mixed layer are related.
Chemokines and allergic disease

Understanding the chemokine network has become one of the great challenges for researchers interested in inflammatory mechanisms and inflammation-based diseases. The complexity and diversity of the system provide not only a daunting task for its comprehension but also numerous opportunities for development of new, targeted therapies. It is now certain that chemokines are involved as important mediators of allergic inflammation; the fine details and scope of their roles are now under investigation. Presumably, because of distinct pressures on the immune systems of people living in different geographic regions, genetic variation of ligands, receptors, and regulatory regions in the network have emerged. Establishing the roles of these polymorphisms in determining disease susceptibility or progression among individuals and in distinct ethnic groups will provide a basis for improved understanding and treatment of allergic diseases.
Shyness, self-preoccupation and the stroop color and world test

Abstract Forty college women who had been pre-tested on a measure of shyness, took the Stroop Color and World Test twice and completed a post-session questionnaire concerning their reactions to taking the test. Shy S s had significantly lower Color-Word scores on the second Stroop test administration, indicating cognitive interference and distractibility. Shyness was also significantly correlated with self-reports of worry and test-irrelevant thinking as reactions to taking the Stroop test. These results are discussed from the perspective of cognitive approaches to shyness.
Numerical implementation of temperature and creep in mass concrete

Mass concrete generates internal heat during the hydration period that occurs soon after casting. Added to these internal heat changes are the environmental conditions that the structure is subjected to during its design life. These thermal changes in the material affect the elastic and creep properties of the material, and in turn, the stress fields within the structure. The numerical implementation of these factors is illustrated in a three-dimensional finite element program that simulates the construction process of mass. The mathematical formulation, the numerical implementation and other implementation details are presented herein. The temperature and stress variation of a concrete block was analyzed and results show that temperature plays an important role in concrete structures.
Correlation in time-dependent density-functional theory

The exact time-dependent correlation energy in time-dependent density-functional theory is shown to sometimes become positive, which is impossible with most present TDDFT approximations. Both the correlation potential and energy can be strongly nonlocal in time. A new inequality is derived for the time-dependent exchange-correlation energy. The correlation energy appears to scale to a constant function of scaled time in the high-density limit. In the linear response regime, the correlation energy is shown to become purely adiabatic, but the correlation potential is generally nonadiabatic. The usefulness of the virial theorem as a test of numerical accuracy is demonstrated. All results are found or inspired by exact numerical solution of a simple model system (Hooke’s atom), and inversion of the corresponding Kohn–Sham equations.
Attenuation of hemodynamic responses to rapid sequence induction and intubation in healthy patients with a single bolus of esmolol

The effectiveness of a single preinduction intravenous (IV) bolus of esmolol in blunting hemodynamic responses to rapid sequence induction and tracheal intubation was evaluated. In a randomized double-blind study, 32 ASA I and II healthy patients scheduled for surgery were monitored with electrocardiography (EKG) lead V5, arterial cannulation, and impedance cardiography. After preoxygenation and a priming dose of vecuronium (0.01 mg/kg), patients received either saline (n = 12), esmolol 100 mg (n = 10), or esmolol 200 mg (n = 10) as an IV bolus (20 ml volume). This procedure was immediately followed by a 5 ml IV saline flush, cricoid pressure, thiopental sodium 5 mg/kg, and succinylcholine 1.5 mg/kg. Patients receiving 200 mg of esmolol had a 50% reduction in the usual tachycardia associated with induction and a greater decline in systolic blood pressure (SP) (by 50%) prior to intubation as compared with the placebo group (p less than 0.05). The increase in diastolic blood pressure (DP) and the reduction in stroke volume (SV) produced by induction and intubation were similar in all the groups. Plasma norepinephrine levels at 1.5 minutes after intubation increased in the esmolol groups about 130% above that measured in the placebo group. This finding was associated with a more gradual return of peripheral resistance to baseline following tracheal intubation. However, both doses of esmolol effectively attenuated heart rate (HR), SP, and rate pressure product (RPP) increases (p less than 0.05 vs placebo) produced by laryngoscopy and tracheal intubation.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's SITE Emerging Technology Program: 1991 Update

The Emerging Technology Program (ETP) supports the development of technologies successfully tested at the bench- and pilot-scale level. The ETP is part of the Superfund Innovative Technology Evaluation (SITE) Program which was established in 1986 under the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act (SARA). The goal of the SITE Program is to promote, accelerate, and make commercially available the development and use of alternative /innovative treatment technologies at hazardous waste sites. Technologies are eligible for the ETP Program when sufficient research data exists validating the technologies' basic concepts. The EPA contributes funds to support developers for one or two years. Developers are responsible for conducting research and providing additional financial support in this cooperative research effort. Technologies are categorized into six areas: thermal, chemical, biological, materials handling, physical, and solidification/stabilization. The technologies' performance, development and data c...
Dispersion-shifted fibers with fluorine-added cladding by the vapor phase axial deposition method

Dispersion-shifted single-mode fibers operated in the 1.5-μm region, where silica-based fibers exhibit the lowest loss and zero chromatic dispersion simultaneously, are extremely attractive for high-bit-rate transmission systems with a long repeater spacing. Recently, several research institutions have reported structure designs of dispersion-shifted single-mode fibers based on a triangular-index profile core to reduce microbending sensitivity.1,2 These designs require a high level of GeO2, which leads to increased Rayleigh scattering loss. The fiber structure with a cladding depressed by adding fluorine can reduce the level of GeO2 but results in a leakage loss increase of the fundamental mode.
Transmission of Nosema eurytremae (microsporida: Nosematidae) to various trematode larvae

Nosema eurytremae, a hyperparasite of trematode larvae, can easily be transmitted from one trematode species to another by feeding snails with spores. Hyperparasites from larvae of Postharmostomum sp. in the land snail Bradybaena similaris were transmitted to rediae of Echinostoma audyi and sporocysts of Trichobilharzia brevis in the freshwater snail Lymnaea rubiginosa. N. eurytremae were also transmitted to rediae of Fasciola gigantica in L. rubiginosa, of Echinostoma malayanum in Indoplanorbis exustus, and of Echinostoma ilocanum in Gyraulus convexiusculus from spores obtained from larvae of various species of trematode in L. rubiginosa and I. exustus. Attempts to transmit N. eurytremae to adult E. malayanum by feeding spores to rat hosts were unsuccessful.
Fertilizers for food production vs energy needs and environmental quality

Abstract The world is experiencing an energy crisis that is restrictive to agricultural requisites production at the same time that food is becoming increasingly short on a global basis. Fertilizers are the most energy demanding of these inputs and have become very expensive and intermittently short in supply with the reduced availability of fossil fuels. They have been indicted, furthermore, as environmental pollutants due to their presumed role in eutrophication and in being a source of excessive NO 3 N that may accumulate in some leaf crops and in drinking waters. Exponential growth in fossil fuel consumption cannot continue. Economies can be made in the agricultural sector, which does indeed consume substantial quantities of energy. The energy consumed in this very essential food-producing process, however, is almost insignificant compared with that involved in transport and processing of food beyond the farm and with other energy expenditures in modern society. A shift in priorities will certainly be required in adapting to the real world of the 1970s if man's first need is to be met. Economies in fertilizer use can be made by adherence to known agronomic principles. Savings in fossil fuel energy can probably be effected also in the production of N fertilizer, by far the most fossil-energy-demanding process in the realm of agriculture. Considerable research remains to be done, however, under varied climatic conditions for understanding and controlling processes by which residuals from fertilizers may become environmental pollutants. The various issues in this paper must be resolved promptly in consideration of the now-existing energy crisis and the imminent world food crisis.
A multi-resolution approach for line-edge roughness detection

A wavelet-based line-edge detection framework is presented that proves to be solely image-dependent. In this analysis, surfaces are considered as a combination of an underlying surface structure and a surface detail, corresponding to low-frequency and high-frequency features, respectively. Through the multi-scale analysis offered by wavelet decomposition, the underlying surface structure is extracted and used to define the line-edge searching region, which, in turn, helps characterize the line-edge roughness (LER), providing valuable information for the evaluation of device fabrication and performance. We focus on exploring the optimal wavelet decomposition, to better separate the underlying structure and the surface detail, using a number of metrics including the Shannon's entropy, k-means clustering and the flatness factor. The impact of different wavelet functions and resolution levels on line-edge roughness characterization is discussed. An SEM image of a plane diffraction grating is studied to demonstrate the application of the proposed framework.
Application of the Lucy–Richardson Deconvolution Procedure to High Resolution Photoemission Spectra

Angle-resolved photoemission has developed into one of the leading probes of the electronic structure and associated dynamics of condensed matter systems. As with any experimental technique the ability to resolve features in the spectra is ultimately limited by the resolution of the instrumentation used in the measurement. Previously developed for sharpening astronomical images, the Lucy–Richardson deconvolution technique proves to be a useful tool for improving the photoemission spectra obtained in modern hemispherical electron spectrometers where the photoelectron spectrum is displayed as a 2D image in energy and momentum space.
Primary Cardiac Lipoblastoma

Lipoblastoma is a benign adipose tumor in children that has been described in various anatomic locations, most commonly the extremities. We describe the case of a 17-month-old boy diagnosed with cardiac lipoblastoma, a previously unreported primary cardiac tumor in children. Our patient presented with symptoms of coughing, wheezing, and hoarseness and was found to have a large mediastinal mass, which narrowed the left mainstem bronchus and compressed the right atrium and superior vena cava, causing superior vena cava syndrome. Surgical exploration revealed an intrapericardial soft tissue mass arising from the area of the posterior interatrial septum. Grossly, the resected mass was lobulated, pale yellow, and fatty with focal areas of gray myxoid tissue. Microscopically, the tumor consisted of both immature and mature adipocytes, with focal vascular myxoid areas containing lipoblasts, diagnostic of lipoblastoma. Two months after surgery, the patient was in good health without evidence of recurrence.