cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Engineering Enterprises for Emergent Change

This paper uses work system theory (WST) and two of its extensions to provide an integrated perspective on engineering enterprises for emergent change. This paper starts by explaining six basic assumptions and distinctions related to emergent change. It introduces four frameworks or models related to WST including the work system framework, work system life cycle model, a theory of workarounds, and a work system metamodel. It shows how each framework or model can help in identifying different aspects of engineering for emergent change and also can be the basis of guidelines for that purpose. Overall, this paper provides a unique way to think about the engineering of enterprises. In addition, it explains a combination of concepts and frameworks that provide a path toward engineering for emergent change.
Josephson junctions with 1 μm dimensions and with picosecond switching times

Josephson junctions with 1 × 3 μm dimensions have no resonances. For a current density of about 1000 A/cm2, the risetime of the switching transient from zero to the gap voltage is below 38 ps.
Study of ubiquinone binding in ubiquinol-cytochrome c reductase by spin labeled ubiquinone derivative.

Abstract A functionally active, spin labeled ubiquinone derivative, 2,3-dimethoxy -5-methyl-6-{10-(2,2,5,5-tetramethyl-3-pyrrolin-1-oxyl-3-carboxy)-decyl}-1,4-benzoquinone, has been synthesized for the study of ubiquinone binding in ubiquinol-cytochrome c reductase. When this spin labeled ubiquinone derivative interacted with ubiquinone- and phospholipid-depleted reductase, the spin label was totally immobilized. However, when phospholipids were replenished, the spin label showed mobility behaviour similar to that observed in a hydrophobic environment, indicating that the alkyl side chain of ubiquinone is extended into the hydrophobic region of intact reductase and has some degree of mobility.
Instantons and chiral symmetry restoration in QCD-like theories

Abstract At finite temperatures it is known that quark-induced interaction lead to formation of instanton-anti-instanton molecules, strongly polarized in time direction. We report first direct simulations of the statistical mechanics of the interacting instanton ensemble at finite temperatures. First of all, they confirmed that molecule formation is driving the chiral phase transition. It happens at T ⋍ 140 MeV (for two flavors) and is second order, while being weak first order if quark masses are as in QCD. We also calculated the behavior of thermodynamics, mesonic susceptibilities and screening masses near the phase transition: inside uncertaintes, all agrees with lattice results. Furthermore, the first order phase transition lines extend further in theories with larger number of flavors N f : for sufficiently small masses we have found that chiral restoration happens at T = 0 already at N f = 5.
Further results on forecasting and model selection under asymmetric loss

We make three related contributions. First, we propose a new technique for solving prediction problems under asymmetric loss using piecewise-linear approximations to the loss function, and we establish existence and uniqueness of the optimal predictor. Second, we provide a detailed application to optimal prediction of a conditionally heteroscedastic process under asymmetric loss, the insights gained from which are broadly applicable. Finally, we incorporate our results into a general framework for recursive prediction-based model selection under the relevant loss function.
The Phenomenon of Autonarcosis in a Parasitic Wasp

In the laboratory culture of parasitic Hymenoptera it is a common practice to collect the adults from the large emergence cages into glass tubing with a power-driven aspirator. This glass tubing has an absorbent cotton plug at one end and the aspirator cork at the other. Depending upon the characteristics of the species being handled, from 100 to 400 individuals may be collected without impairment into a single tube before the aspirator cork is removed and replaced with another plug of absorbent cotton. The cotton plugs are then tightly fitted into each end of the tubing, and the volume of air space remaining between them amounts to approximately 38 ml. Parasites confined in this manner may be stored for brief periods if fed honey and held at cool temperatures. They are commonly packed in this fashion for transport to experimental field plots.
On embeddings of graphs containing no K 5 -minor

In this paper, we proved that every 2-connected graph containing no K5-minor has a closed 2-cell embedding on some 2-manifold surface. © 1996 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Red cell distribution width: a measure of cardiovascular risk in rheumatoid arthritis patients?

This study aims to evaluate if myocardial infarction (MI) is more frequent in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients with elevated levels of red cell distribution width (RDW). Utilizing a secure cloud based platform, Explorys, we searched de-identified US patient data between 1999 and 2014. RA patients were identified by serologic positivity and ICD9 diagnosis code. Patients were stratified into high (≥15.6 %) RDW and low ( 15.6 %). The proportion of patients with diagnosis of MI in each RDW group was collected. For comparison, patients were divided into high and low CRP groups (≥2.5 and ≤0.8 mg/dL) and high and low ESR groups (≥50 and ≤30 mm/h), and MI data were collected. Statistical comparison between high and low laboratory test groups was performed with chi-square test, and odds ratios were calculated. The patient population included 20,810 patients with RA. The proportion of RA patients with MI was significantly increased in the high compared to low RDW, ESR, and CRP groups (p < 0.001 for each). The odds ratios of MI were greater in the high than in the low group for each parameter: RDW (OR1.5, 95 % CI 1.3 to 1.6); ESR (OR2.0, 95 % CI 1.8–2.3); and CRP (OR1.9, 95 % CI 1.7 to 2.2). These data from a large unselected population suggest that elevated RDW levels in RA patients should prompt physicians to aggressively screen and treat their patients for modifiable cardiovascular (CVS) risk factors, in addition to treating RA inflammation.
The effects of intensive management on the leaf characteristics and growth phenology of young yellow-poplar stems

Abstract Yellow-poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera L.) is one of the more commonly regenerated species in upland Piedmont stands following clearcut reproduction methods. Recent studies show that a variety of silvicultural activities affect the growth of yellow-poplar seedlings. However, the factors responsible for these changes in growth have not been documented in detail. Weed control, fertilization and thinning treatments were imposed on rising 1- and 3-year-old naturally regenerated stands. Stem growth and monthly height growth patterns, and leaf physical and chemical parameters were compared by treatment during the third growing season after treatments were initiated. The response of yellow-poplar to fertilization suggests that inherent site resources are not suitable for optimal growth, especially when stem densities are high. Vector analysis of N, P and K responses to fertilization, weeding and thinning treatments demonstrated that yellow-poplar responded to ameliorations of N and P deficiencies. Thinned + weeded yellow-poplar, with or without fertilization, had a greater percentage of height growth later in the summer compared to other treatments. Foliar characteristics like leaf number, leaf size and nitrogen concentration were positively correlated with stem growth. The largest increases in leaf area were coincident with increases in foliar N and P.
A decrease in the size of the basal ganglia following prenatal alcohol exposure: A preliminary report

Prenatal alcohol exposure is known to cause damage to the central nervous system. This study sought to further elucidate the structural brain damage that occurs following prenatal alcohol exposure in both children and rats. Two children with histories of maternal alcohol abuse but who did not qualify for a diagnosis of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS), based on established criteria, underwent magnetic resonance imaging. Reduced volumes were found for the cerebrum and cerebellum. In addition, the proportional volume of the basal ganglia was reduced, although the proportional volumes of cortical and subcortical fluid, cortical gray matter, limbic and nonlimbic cortex, and diencephalic structures were unaffected. These findings are compared with our recent MRI findings in two cases of FAS. In addition, the caudate-putamen and ventricular areas were assessed in rats exposed to alcohol prenatally. Whereas the overall brain section area was not reduced in size, the area of the caudate-putamen was reduced and that of the ventricles was enlarged.
Resource competition in the Kennett region of Pennsylvania

Abstract This essay examines resource competition and problems of social justice in the mushroom growing Kennett region of Chester County, Pennsylvania. It is urged that planners and designers be aware of uncertainty in professional practice and of the Hobbesian competition for natural resources they must confront in their pursuit of aesthetic design and in the allocation of scarce resources. The methods by which to address these problems have been summarized by the United Nations Programme on Man and the Biosphere and addressed by the author in other publications.
Tissue specificity, localization in brain, and cell-free translation of mRNA encoding the A3 isoform of Na+,K+-ATPase.

Abstract The isolation of multiple Na+,K+-ATPase cDNAs from rat brain has led to the discovery of a family of alpha-isoform genes. Using A1 (alpha), A2 (alpha+), and A3 (alpha III) Na+,K+-ATPase gene probes, we have analyzed the distribution of Na+,K+-ATPase mRNAs in adult and fetal rat tissues by RNA blot and hybridization histochemistry. A1 Na+,K+-ATPase mRNA was found ubiquitously among various tissues, with highest levels in transport epithelial and neural tissues. A2 mRNA was found in adult neural and muscle tissues, and A3 mRNA was found only in neural tissues and fetal heart muscle. Both A1 and A2 mRNAs were less abundant in fetal brain than in adult brain; in contrast, A3 mRNA was abundant at both stages. In situ mapping of brain areas that contain A3 mRNA suggests that this Na+,K+-ATPase isoenzyme is expressed predominantly by neural cells. Analysis of Na+,K+-ATPase proteins generated by cell-free translation of synthetic mRNAs suggests that the A3 protein has properties similar to A2 (alpha+).
SSME engine system integration of the alternate turbopump program

The effect of the engine level integration of the alternate High Pressure Oxidizer Turbopump (HPOTP) on the performance of the Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME) is examined with reference to the results of the current engine system ground test data analysis. In particular, attention is given to the observed steady state and transient mainstage engine system effects with respect to various engine hardware combinations. It is concluded that none of the engine system concerns eliminate the turbomump from consideration as a permanent addition to the flight program pending certification.
Media Use and Postmaterialist Values in China and the US: A Comparative Study

This study uses data from the 2005 wave of World Values Survey (WVS 2005), to explore and compare the relations between media use and postmaterialist value orientations in China and the US. The data analysis showed that the younger generations in China have stronger postmaterialist value orientations than the older generations. American society has stronger postmaterialist value orientations than Chinese society as a whole, but fewer obvious generational differences. The study also found that media use has a greater effect on values in China than in the US.
Postnatal changes in cytochrome oxidase expressions in brain stem nuclei of rats: implications for sensitive periods

Previously, we reported that cytochrome oxidase (CO) activity in the rat pre-Botzinger complex (PBC) exhibited a plateau on postnatal days (P) 3–4 and a prominent decrease on P12 (Liu and Wong-Rile...
New developments in terrorist trials in Northern Ireland

Abstract Northern Ireland has been the scene of an unprecedented series of terrorist attacks over the past two decades. Special legislation has been enacted in an attempt to deal with this rash of violence. New offenses have been created, starting with the proscription of 10 terrorist paramilitary organizations. Most recently, persons operating security services must be licensed, in an attempt by the government to ensure that these operations are not merely coercive forms of racketeering. Special procedures have been implemented that include trial in Diplock courts by a judge without a jury, the admissibility of confessions unless there is prima facie evidence of physical intimidation, and the use of specified inferences to corroborate evidence against the accused. The antiterrorist legislation has proved invaluable in containing the level of violence in Northern Ireland, without violating the basic right of accused persons to a fair trial.
Toward automated consumer question answering: Automatically separating consumer questions from professional questions in the healthcare domain

Objective: Both healthcare professionals and healthcare consumers have information needs that can be met through the use of computers, specifically via medical question answering systems. However, the information needs of both groups are different in terms of literacy levels and technical expertise, and an effective question answering system must be able to account for these differences if it is to formulate the most relevant responses for users from each group. In this paper, we propose that a first step toward answering the queries of different users is automatically classifying questions according to whether they were asked by healthcare professionals or consumers. Design: We obtained two sets of consumer questions (~10,000 questions in total) from Yahoo answers. The professional questions consist of two question collections: 4654 point-of-care questions (denoted as PointCare) obtained from interviews of a group of family doctors following patient visits and 5378 questions from physician practices through professional online services (denoted as OnlinePractice). With more than 20,000 questions combined, we developed supervised machine-learning models for automatic classification between consumer questions and professional questions. To evaluate the robustness of our models, we tested the model that was trained on the Consumer-PointCare dataset on the Consumer-OnlinePractice dataset. We evaluated both linguistic features and statistical features and examined how the characteristics in two different types of professional questions (PointCare vs. OnlinePractice) may affect the classification performance. We explored information gain for feature reduction and the back-off linguistic category features. Results: The 10-fold cross-validation results showed the best F1-measure of 0.936 and 0.946 on Consumer-PointCare and Consumer-OnlinePractice respectively, and the best F1-measure of 0.891 when testing the Consumer-PointCare model on the Consumer-OnlinePractice dataset. Conclusion: Healthcare consumer questions posted at Yahoo online communities can be reliably classified from professional questions posted by point-of-care clinicians and online physicians. The supervised machine-learning models are robust for this task. Our study will significantly benefit further development in automated consumer question answering.
Jack bean meal as biocatalyst for urea biosensors

The construction and response of a novel biosensor for urea are described. This sensor utilizes a layer of jack bean meal immobilized at the surface of an ammonia gassensing probe. The resulting sensor is found to be a viable alternative to the enzyme-based sensor.
A mild method for the synthesis of 2-ketopyrroles from carboxylic acids

Abstract A mild method for the synthesis of 2-ketopyrroles from carboxylic acids via 2-pyridylthiolesters and pyrrylmagnesium chloride is described.
Duodenal reflux leads to down regulation of DNA mismatch repair pathway in an animal model of esophageal cancer.

Background Gastroduodenal reflux is implicated in esophageal carcinogenesis. This effect is mediated by reactive oxygen species. We hypothesized that this is mediated by DNA mismatch lesion 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-oxoG), which is repaired by the Mut Y homologue (MYH) . We tested the effect of reflux, either alone or in combination with the human dietary mutagen methyl-n-amyl nitrosamine (MNAN), on DNA damage in adenocarcinoma and squamous cell cancer of the esophagus in a rat model. Methods Reflux was promoted in male Sprague-Dawley rats by duodenoesophageal anastomosis (8 weeks) without gastric bypass. MNAN treatment (25 mg/kg per week intraperitoneally for four doses) commenced at 10 weeks age. Ten animals served as controls. Quantification of 8-oxoG was performed by using immunohistochemistry, and MYH was analyzed by Western blot. Apoptosis was assessed by terminal deoxynucleotide transferase-mediated deoxy uridine triphosphate nick-end labeling (TUNEL), cytochrome C, and caspase. Results Tumors (adenocarcinoma) developed in 15 (50%) of 30 animals with reflux alone; this increased to 26 (86.6%) of 30 when reflux was combined with MNAN treatment, with tumor histology consistent with adenosquamous and squamous cell cancer. DNA damage, as reflected by positive 8-oxoG staining in reflux groups, was significantly increased compared with control ( p p Conclusions Gastroduodenal reflux leads to increased DNA damage and downregulation of the DNA mismatch repair pathway. This pathway has an important role in esophageal carcinogenesis in rats.
Walls and Gates

Complexity should live at a single privilege level, isolated by strong walls and simple gates from other privilege levels. When we don't follow that principle, security failures become more likely.
QPAR: A Quasi-Passive Reconfigurable Green Node for Dynamic Resource Management in Optical Access Networks

Passive optical networks (PONs) are regarded as a promising solution for the broadband bandwidth bottleneck problem. However, due to their passive nature, legacy TDM-PONs are limited by their inflexible power distribution, while future WDM-PONs are restricted by their static wavelength allocation. To mitigate these limitations, we propose QPAR, a Quasi-Passive Reconfigurable node, which provides flexible power and bandwidth allocation, and enables a graceful upgrade from TDM-PON to WDM-PON. Due to its quasi-passive nature, QPAR only consumes power during reconfiguration. Simulation results show that QPAR can increase the number of users, extend the reach, and balance the traffic load in the network compared with legacy PONs. QPAR can be implemented using either discrete or integrated components. We demonstrate an experimental QPAR using two different optical latching switches based on micro-electro-mechanical systems and magneto-optic materials. Lastly, we experimentally investigate QPAR performances.
A biased estimate of proportion

A simple method of finding a biased estimate of the population proportion is introduced. This biased estimate is derived by finding a confidence interval for the population proportion without using the concept of convergence in probability. While all existing biased estimates of the population proportion are based on specific prior distributions, the biased estimate discussed here does not require any prior distribution. The proposed biased estimate is asymptotically unbiased, has smaller variance and smaller maximum mean squared error than the sample proportion. Under certain conditions it also has a smaller margin of error and smaller mean squared error than the sample proportion.
Myeloperoxidase-catalyzed iodination and coupling.

Abstract Myeloperoxidase (MPO), which displays considerable amino acid sequence homology with thyroid peroxidase (TPO) and lactoperoxidase (LPO), was tested for its ability to catalyze iodination of thyroglobulin and coupling of two diiodotyrosyl residues within thyroglobulin to form thyroxine. After 1 min of incubation in a system containing goiter thyroglobulin, I − , and H 2 O 2 , the pH optimum of MPO-catalyzed iodination was markedly acidic (~4.0), compared to LPO (~5.4) and TPO (~6.6). The presence of 0.1 n Cl − or Br − shifted the pH optimum for MPO to about 5.4 but had little or no effect on TPO- or LPO-catalyzed iodination. At pH 5.4, 0.1 n Cl − and 0.1 n Br − had a marked stimulatory effect on MPO-catalyzed iodination. At pH 4.0, however, iodinating activity of MPO was almost completely inhibited by 0.1 n Cl − or Br − . Inhibition of chlorinating activity of MPO by Cl − at pH 4.0 has been previously described. When iodination of goiter thyroglobulin was performed with MPO plus the H 2 O 2 generating system, glucose-glucose oxidase, at pH 7.0, the iodinating activity was markedly increased by 0.1 n Cl − . Under these conditions iodination and thyroxine formation were comparable to values observed with TPO. MPO and TPO were also compared for coupling activity in a system that measures coupling of diiodotyrosyl residues in thyroglobulin in the absence of iodination. MPO displayed very significant coupling activity, and, like TPO, this activity was stimulated by a low concentration of free diiodotyrosine (1 μ m ). The thioureylene drugs, propylthiouracil and methimazole, inhibited MPO-catalyzed iodination both reversibly and irreversibly, in a manner similar to that previously described for TPO-catalyzed iodination.
Neutrophilic CSF Pleocytosis in Hypertensive Encephalopathy

A patient with hypertensive crisis developed encephalopathy with a lumbar puncture revealing neutrophilic pleocytosis. No explanation for her case could be found, eg, no evidence of infection or vasculitis. It is concluded that the most probable cause of her neutrophilic cerebrospinal fluid pleocytosis is hypertensive encephalopathy.
Lichen Striatus: A Model for the Histologic Spectrum of Lichenoid Reactions

Three phases of lichenoid reactions are defined: 1) the primary phase, 2) the established phase; and 3) the senescent phase. Lichen striatus is characterized by a primary pattern that may be apparent in the epidermis, the hair follicles, and rarely the sweat glands and ducts. Focal areas of established lichenoid reaction, that are indistinguishable from lichen planus, are common. They usually are confined to the tips of elongated rete ridges. Established lichenoid patterns are occasionally present in hair follicles and are indistinguishable from those seen in lichen planopilaris. Eccrine hidradenitis, a feature of lichen striatus, is rarely seen in lichen planus. Lichen planus may be an adaptive epidermal response to a clone of aggressive lymphocytes and, as such, may be a manifestation of auto-immunity. In lichen striatus, senescent lichenoid patterns resemble those seen in lichen nitidus.
A globally convergent parallel algorithm for zeros of polynomial systems

Certain classes of nonlinear systems of equations, such as polynomial systems, have properties that make them particularly amenable to solution on distributed computing systems. Some algorithms, considered unfavorably on a single processor serial computer, may be excellent on a distributed system. This paper considers the solution of polynomial systems of equations via a globally convergent homotopy algorithm on a hypercube. Some computational results are reported.
Age, growth and reproductive biology of the silky shark, Carcharhinus falciformis, and the scalloped hammerhead, Sphyrna lewini, from the northwestern Gulf of Mexico

The silky shark, Carcharhinus falciformis, and scalloped hammerhead, Sphyrna lewini, represent >80% of the shark by-catch of the winter swordfish/tuna longline fishery of the northwestern Gulf of Mexico. This catch represents a potential supplemental fishery, yet little is known of the life histories of the two species. This report relates reproductive biology data to age and growth estimates for 135 C. falciformis and 78 S. lewini. Unlike other regional populations, C. falciformis in the Gulf of Mexico may have a seasonal 12 month gestation period. Males mature at 210–220 cm TL (6–7 yr); females at >225 cm TL (7–9 yr). Application of age at length data for combined sexes produced von Bertalanffy growth model parameter estimates of L∞ = 291 cm TL, K = 0.153, t0 = −2.2 yr. Adult male S. lewini outnumbered adult females in catches because of differences in the distributions of the sexually segregated population. Males mature at 180 cm TL (10 yr); females at 250 cm TL (15 yr). von Bertalanffy parameter estimates for combined sexes of this species were L∞ = 329 cm TL, K = 0.073, to = −2.2 yr.
A hepatic artery infusion model in Yucatan minipigs

Abstract Introduction. Hepatic artery infusion (HAI) chemotherapy has long been studied, but its appropriate use remains controversial; there has been no available animal model. Methods. The Yucatan minipig was chosen because it has liver anatomy and biochemistry similar to human. An HAI catheter was placed via the gastroduodenal artery; liver biopsy was performed, and adequate perfusion was confirmed via fluorescein injection. The animals were maintained on various doses, 0.3, 0.6, 3.0 mg/kg/day, of FUDR or saline continuously for 4–10 weeks. Liver biopsies were performed laparoscopically at 4-week intervals. Tissue was examined by light (LM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and also phenotyped for levels of P450 isoforms 2C9 and 3A4. Serum liver function tests were done every 2 weeks. Results. Eight pigs had HAI with saline or FUDR. Serum liver function tests remained normal throughout the infusion for all doses. LM revealed no change during infusion, with each pig used as its own control. TEM showed increasingly edematous and dilated endoplasmic reticulum with FUDR but not saline. This phenomenon was more pronounced at higher doses and when infusion had progressed in time, but reverted to baseline when infusion was stopped. The P450 3A4 isozyme was up regulated with increasing doses of FUDR, but was down regulated when a toxic dose (10× the maximum human dose) was used. The P450 2C9 isozyme remained relatively constant at the lower doses of FUDR but showed a 2-fold increase at the toxic dose. Conclusion. The Yucatan minipig can be used as a model for HAI chemotherapy to study the effects of various chemotherapeutic agents on liver morphology and biochemistry. Our data with FUDR have shown changes in electron microscopy and liver biochemistry occur earlier than changes seen in tests used clinically. Because these changes can affect the metabolism of other drugs before clinical liver malfunction is apparent, unsuspected systemic toxicity may accompany HAI. Other antitumor agents may produce significantly different results and should be evaluated in this model before widespread application in man.
WE‐G‐WAB‐06: Three‐Dimensional Visualization Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging for Episcleral Brachytherapy

Purpose: Conventional treatment planning for episcleral plaque brachytherapy entails creating a two‐dimensional (2D) isodose plan based on the tumor dimensions and distances to critical structures as defined by ultrasound and fundus photography. The purpose of this study was to compare 2D‐based metrics of the tumor and normal eye anatomy with magnetic resonance (MR)‐based metrics. Methods: Thirty‐five patients with ocular melanoma were prescribed to receive 85 Gy over 96 hours using episcleral plaque brachytherapy with iodine‐125. The plaque size and seed source strength were determined from the tumor characteristics as defined by ultrasound and fundus photography. The patients were imaged on a 1.5‐Tesla MR unit using T1‐and T2‐weighted techniques. Images were exported to a brachytherapy planning system for contouring of tumor and normal eye anatomy, and identifying points of interest for critical structures, e.g., fovea and optic disk. The tumor apex height, basal dimensions, distances between tumor edge to fovea and to optic disk were averaged over all patients, and compared between 2D‐and MR‐based methods using statistical Signed test analysis. Results: There were no statistically significant differences between 2D‐and MR‐based methods for mean tumor apex height, basal dimensions, and distance to optic disk and to fovea. Four patients presented with tumors located anteriorly in the ciliary body. This tumor location proved to be challenging in estimating distances to optic disk and fovea based on 2D methods. These distances were measurable on MR regardless of tumor location. Conclusion: We have shown that tumor dimensions and distances measured using 2D‐based methods can be reproducibly defined on MR. Future work will evaluate isodose plans on the MR images and compare them to 2D‐based isodose plans. Additional work will include investigating different MR imaging techniques to enhance soft‐tissue visualization.
Raman spectrum of optical fiber waveguide — Effect of cladding

Abstract The spontaneous Raman spectrum of multimode glass core-plastic cladding fibers (core diameter ≈ 100 μm) was measured and compared with that of the bulk core and cladding materials. The fiber spectrum is dominated by the broad peaks of the glass core but also contains two sharp lines at 2909 and 2971 cm-1, which correspond to the most intense lines of the polymer cladding in bulk form. These spectral features are generated by Raman scattering in the evanescent field region of the cladding with the resulting radiation weakly coupled to the propagating modes of the fiber; a measurement of relative core/cladding peak intensities is in agreement with the predictions of a theory based on this model. It is proposed that this measurement and analysis could be developed into a method for estimating the quality of the contact between the glass and plastic.
Phytochemistry of Cimicifugic Acids and Associated Bases in Cimicifuga racemosa Root Extracts

Introduction Earlier studies reported serotonergic activity for cimicifugic acids (CA) isolated from Cimicifuga racemosa. The discovery of strongly basic alkaloids, cimipronidines, from the active extract partition and evaluation of previously employed work-up procedures has led to the hypothesis of strong acid/base association in the extract.
Impact of hypertension on the accuracy of exercise stress myocardial perfusion imaging for the diagnosis of coronary artery disease

Aim—To compare the accuracy of exercise stress myocardial perfusion single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging for the diagnosis of coronary artery disease in patients with and without hypertension. Methods—A symptom limited bicycle exercise stress test in conjunction with 99m technetium sestamibi or tetrofosmin SPECT imaging was performed in 332 patients (mean (SD) age, 57 (10) years; 257 men, 75 women) without previous myocardial infarction who underwent coronary angiography. Of these, 137 (41%) had hypertension. Rest SPECT images were acquired 24 hours after the stress test. An abnormal scan was defined as one with reversible or fixed perfusion defects. Results—In hypertensive patients, myocardial perfusion abnormalities were detected in 79 of 102 patients with significant coronary artery disease and in nine of 35 patients without. In normotensive patients, myocardial perfusion abnormalities were detected in 104 of 138 patients with significant coronary artery disease and in 16 of 57 patients without. There were no diVerences between normotensive and hypertensive patients in sensitivity (77% (95% confidence interval (CI) 69% to 86%) v 75% (95% CI 68% to 83%)), specificity (74% (95% CI 60% to 89%) v 72% (95% CI 60% to 84%)), and accuracy (77% (95% CI 70% to 84%) v 74% (95% CI 68% to 80%)) of exercise SPECT for diagnosing coronary artery disease. The accuracy of SPECT was greater than electrocardiography, both in hypertensive patients (p = 0.005) and in normotensive patients (p = 0.0001). For the detection of coronary artery disease in individual vessels, sensitivity was 58% (95% CI 51% to 65%) v 57% (95% CI 51% to 64%), specificity was 86% (95% CI 82% to 90%) v 85% (95% CI 81% to 89%), and accuracy was 74% (95% CI 70% to 78%) v 74% (95% CI 70% to 78%) in patients with and without hypertension (NS). Conclusions—In the usual clinical setting, the value of exercise myocardial perfusion scintigraphy for diagnosing coronary artery disease is not degraded by the presence of hypertension. (Heart 2001;85:655‐661)
Phonophoresis with Hydrocortisone in the Treatment of Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction

Phonophoretic application of hydrocortisone has been studied by many researchers. In 1954, Fellinger and Schmid first reported the successful treatment of polyarthritis of the digital joints of the hand by using phonophoretically driven hydrocortisone to the inflamed areas.1 In 1963, Griffin and Touchstone reported in vitro research on pig tissue demonstrating that ultrasound could drive cortisol into skeletal muscle and paravertebral nerve.2 Griffin and co-workers, in 1967, presented the comparison of ultrasonically driven hydrocortisone versus a placebo.3 In their study, 68 percent of those receiving hydrocortisone plus ultrasound had a significant increase in range of motion. The 1975 study of Kleinkort and Wood found a 10 percent hydrocortisone preparation to be more effective than a 1 percent preparation in reducing pain in a variety of inflammatory conditions.4 The following case report describes the use of phonophoretically driven hydrocortisone for a patient with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction.
Two Centuries of Forest Compositional and Structural Changes in the Alabama Fall Line Hills

Abstract Documenting changes in forest composition and structure through time and in response to disturbances strengthens our understanding of the processes that have created contemporary forest ecosystems. Results from these studies also provide the historical range of variation in forest characteristics, which is essential for establishing place-based targets for forest management. Using historical archives and current forest inventory data from the past two centuries, we quantified forest composition and structure following fundamental shifts in land use for a forest in the Fall Line Hills of Alabama (pre-European settlement (1820 and 1842), pre-industrial logging (1905), U.S. Forest Service acquisition (1943), and contemporary conditions (present)). To quantify conditions prior to European settlement, we analyzed General Land Office surveys of 1820 and 1842. We used Reed (1905) and Harper (1943) to document conditions during the early to mid-20th century. To quantify current forest conditions, we samp...
Nonrespiratory Stenotrophomonas maltophilia Infection at a Children's Hospital

To describe Stenotrophomonas maltophilia infection in children, we reviewed the medical records of patients with isolates from nonrespiratory sites and identified 85 episodes, 51 (60%) of which represented true infection. Forty-two episodes (82.4%) were hospital acquired. Commonly associated with S. maltophilia infection were underlying illness (in 90.2% of cases), previous hospitalizations (in 78.7%), previous antibiotic exposure (in 78.4%), and the presence of a central venous catheter (in 76.5%). Polymicrobial isolates were obtained in 70.6% of episodes; Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter species were the most common coisolates. Bloodstream infection was the most frequent clinical syndrome (32 [63%] of 51 episodes). Fever or sepsis occurred in 22 (69%) and shock in 10 (31%) of 32 episodes. Infection at other sites was less severe. The most active antibiotics in vitro were trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and ticarcillin-clavulanate. The overall and attributable mortality rates were 12.5% and 6.3%, respectively. S. maltophilia appears to be an important cause of nosocomially acquired bacteremia in children. The significance in children of isolation from other sites is less clear.
Argon diffusion in plagioclase and implications for thermochronometry: A case study from the Bushveld Complex, South Africa

Plagioclase is not only the most abundant mineral in the Earth’s crust, but is present in almost all terrestrial tectonic settings and is widespread in most extraterrestrial material. Applying the K–Ar system to this common mineral would provide a powerful tool for quantifying thermal histories in a wide variety of settings. Nonetheless, plagioclase has rarely been used for thermochronometry, largely due to difficulties in simultaneously acquiring precise geochronologic data and quantifying argon diffusion kinetics from a mineral with low-K concentration. Here we describe an analytical technique that generates high-precision 40 Ar/ 39 Ar data and quantifies Ar diffusion kinetics of low-K minerals. We present results of five diffusion experiments conducted on single crystals of plagioclase from the Bushveld Complex, South Africa. The observed diffusion kinetics yield internally consistent thermochronological constraints, indicating that plagioclase is a reliable thermochronometer. Individual grains have activation energies of 155–178 kJ/mol and ln(D0/a 2 ) varies between 3.5 and 6.5. These diffusion parameters correspond to closure temperatures of 225–300 C, for a 10 C/Ma cooling rate. Age spectra generally conform to single-domain diffusive loss profiles, suggesting that grain-scale diffusion dominates argon transport in this fairly simple plagioclase. Conjointly examining several single-grain analyses enables us to distinguish episodic reheating from slow cooling and indicates that the Bushveld Complex cooled rapidly and monotonically from magmatic temperature to <300 C over 3 Ma, followed by protracted cooling to ambient crustal temperatures of 150–200 C over � 600 Ma. 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Cognitive Radio and software defined radio: signal processing perspectives

Wireless communications technologies have evolved tremendously throughout the last three decades. Rapidly increasing number of users and conversion of the voice oriented applications to multimedia applications lead to the need for efficient and flexible communications systems. The evolution of wireless systems addressed this need with adaptive radios until now. The future evolutions are expected to continue this trend with a more structured and sophisticated manner, leading to software defined radio and cognitive radio concepts with the capabilities of sensing, awareness, learning, decision making, and advanced adaptation. These next generation communication technologies require effective, reliable and intelligent signal processing techniques to sustain these features. In this paper, signal intelligence concept including signal identification, multi dimensional signal analysis, and location and environment awareness will be discussed following introductory information about radio spectrum sensing and monitoring.
Strong magnetoelectric coupling in ferrite/ferroelectric multiferroic heterostructures derived by low temperature spin-spray deposition

Strong magnetoelectric (ME) interaction was demonstrated at both dc and microwave frequencies in a novel Zn0.1Fe2.9O4/PMN‐PT (lead magnesium niobate‐lead titanate) multiferroic heterostructure, which was prepared by spin-spray depositing a Zn0.1Fe2.9O4 film on a single-crystal PMN‐PT substrate at a low temperature of 90 ◦ C. A large electric-field induced ferromagnetic resonance field shift up to 140Oe was observed, corresponding to an ME coefficient of 23OecmkV −1 . In addition, a large electrostatic field tuning of the magnetic hysteresis loops was observed with a large squareness ratio change of 18%. The spin-spray deposited ferrite/piezoelectric multiferroic heterostructures exhibiting strong ME interactions at both dc and microwave frequencies provide great opportunities for novel electrostatically tunable microwave magnetic devices synthesized at a low temperature. (Some figures in this article are in colour only in the electronic version)
Family Influences on Coping Processes in Children and Adolescents with Sickle Cell Disease

Examined the contribution of parenting and family variables to the general coping processes of 39 children and adolescents with sickle cell disease (SCD). In home interviews, parents reported on their child's health history, the coping suggestions they make to their children, their own coping strategies, and family cohesion. Children rated their general coping strategies and level of hope. Partial support was obtained for each of the three models of family influences tested in this study. After accounting for the effects of age, gender, family structure, and type of SCD, children's hope was positively associated with active coping suggestions by parents. Children's active coping was associated with a cohesive family environment, and avoidance coping was predicted by less parental use of restructuring coping, and greater parental use of active coping strategies. Taken together, this study provides evidence for the influence of parental coaching and modeling and the family environment on coping processes in children with SCD.
Optimization Algorithms for Labeling Brain Sulci Based on Graph Matching

Graph matching techniques are widely used in pattern recognition problems such as scene description, finger print identification, or face recognition. In this paper, we put forward two optimization methods for graph matching and compare them in the context of brain sulcus identification. The first approach is based on a constraint search in a neighborhood; the second uses a genetic algorithm for optimization. Experiments demonstrate that both methods yield satisfactory identification rates, however, the second method is more general and easier to adapt to similar problems.
Modulation of cardiac ryanodine receptor channels by alkaline earth cations.

Cardiac ryanodine receptor (RyR2) function is modulated by Ca2+ and Mg2+. To better characterize Ca2+ and Mg2+ binding sites involved in RyR2 regulation, the effects of cytosolic and luminal earth alkaline divalent cations (M2+: Mg2+, Ca2+, Sr2+, Ba2+) were studied on RyR2 from pig ventricle reconstituted in bilayers. RyR2 were activated by M2+ binding to high affinity activating sites at the cytosolic channel surface, specific for Ca2+ or Sr2+. This activation was interfered by Mg2+ and Ba2+ acting at low affinity M2+-unspecific binding sites. When testing the effects of luminal M2+ as current carriers, all M2+ increased maximal RyR2 open probability (compared to Cs+), suggesting the existence of low affinity activating M2+-unspecific sites at the luminal surface. Responses to M2+ vary from channel to channel (heterogeneity). However, with luminal Ba2+or Mg2+, RyR2 were less sensitive to cytosolic Ca2+ and caffeine-mediated activation, openings were shorter and voltage-dependence was more marked (compared to RyR2 with luminal Ca2+or Sr2+). Kinetics of RyR2 with mixtures of luminal Ba2+/Ca2+ and additive action of luminal plus cytosolic Ba2+ or Mg2+ suggest luminal M2+ differentially act on luminal sites rather than accessing cytosolic sites through the pore. This suggests the presence of additional luminal activating Ca2+/Sr2+-specific sites, which stabilize high Po mode (less voltage-dependent) and increase RyR2 sensitivity to cytosolic Ca2+ activation. In summary, RyR2 luminal and cytosolic surfaces have at least two sets of M2+ binding sites (specific for Ca2+ and unspecific for Ca2+/Mg2+) that dynamically modulate channel activity and gating status, depending on SR voltage.
Effectiveness of constraint-induced movement therapy on upper-extremity function in children with cerebral palsy: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Objective: To systematically examine the research literature on the effectiveness of constraint-induced movement therapy on improving arm function in children with cerebral palsy, and to assess the association between the study effect size and the characteristics of the patients and intervention protocol. Data sources: A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, PsycINFO, Cochrane, CINAHL, Web of Science, and TRIP Database up to May 2014. Review methods: Studies employing randomized controlled trial design, children with cerebral palsy, comparing constraint-induced movement therapy with another intervention with a focus on arm function, and upper-extremity measures were included in this review. Methodological quality was evaluated using the Physiotherapy Evidence-based Database (PEDro) scale. Results: The literature search resulted in 27 randomized controlled trial studies with good methodological quality that compared constraint-induced movement therapy with other intervention therapy. Overall, constraint-induced movement therapy provided a medium beneficial effect (d = 0.546; p < 0.001) when compared with conventional therapy. For the subgroup analyses, presence of a dose-equivalent comparison group, intervention location, and time of follow-up were significant factors. Studies examining constraint-induced movement therapy effect without a dose-equivalent comparison group showed a large effect in children with cerebral palsy, but studies with a dose-equivalent group only showed a small effect. Children who received home-based constraint-induced movement therapy had a better improvement in arm function than those who received constraint-induced movement therapy elsewhere. Conclusion: The research literature supports constraint-induced movement therapy as an effective intervention to improve arm function in children with cerebral palsy.
Injury type and emergency department management of orthopaedic patients influences follow-up rates.

Background: Orthopaedic clinic follow-up is required to ensure optimal management and outcome for many patients who present to the emergency department (ED) with an orthopaedic injury. While several studies have shown that demographic variables influence patient follow-up after discharge from the ED, the objective of this study was to examine orthopaedic-related and other factors associated with the failure to return for orthopaedic outpatient management, so-called “no-show,” after an ED visit. Methods: A chart review was conducted at a large academic public hospital. Four hundred and sixty-four consecutive adult patients who received an orthopaedic consult in the ED with subsequent referral to the orthopaedic clinic from January through June, 2011, were included. With use of chi-square and Mann-Whitney univariate tests, data regarding injury type and management were analyzed for association with no-show. Variables with p < 0.25 were included in a multivariate stepwise forward logistic regression analysis. Results: The overall no-show rate was 26.1%. Logistic regression modeling revealed significant differences in no-show rates based on cause of injury (odds ratio [OR] 7.51; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.27 to 25.1), with assault victims having the highest no-show rate. Anatomic region of injury significantly influenced no-show rates (OR 6.61; 95% CI, 1.45 to 30.5), with patients with a spine or back complaint having the highest no-show rate. Follow-up rates were influenced by the orthopaedic resident provider consulted (OR 10.8; 95% CI, 4.11 to 31.1), and this was not related to level of training (p = 0.25). The type of bracing applied influenced the no-show rate (OR 2.46; 95% CI, 1.58 to 3.96), and the easier it was to remove the brace (splint), the worse the follow-up (p = 0.0001). Several demographic variables were also predictive of clinic nonattendance, including morbid obesity (OR 15.0; 95% CI, 4.83 to 51.6) and current tobacco use (OR 5.56; 95% CI, 2.19 to 15.4). Conclusions: This study supports previous evidence of high no-show rates with scheduled orthopaedic follow-up among patients treated in the ED. The data highlight distinct orthopaedic-related factors associated with nonattendance. These findings are useful in identifying patients at high risk for no-show to scheduled orthopaedic follow-up appointments and may influence disposition and management decisions for these patients.
The potential of highly charged ions: possible future applications

This paper mirrors and provides references to an invited review talk delivered by the first author at the 13th International Conference on the Physics of Highly Charged Ions. It briefly updates and extends an earlier review (J. D. Gillaspy, 2001 J. Phys. B: At. Mol. Opt. Phys. 34, R93-R130).