cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Intriguing Role of Spanish Language Vocabulary Knowledge in Predicting English Reading Comprehension.

This study explored a holistic model of English reading comprehension among a sample of 135 Spanish-English bilingual Latina and Latino 4th-grade students This model took into account Spanish language reading skills and language of initial literacy instruction. Controlling for language of instruction, English decoding skill, and English oral language proficiency, the authors explored the effects of Spanish language alphabetic knowledge, fluency, vocabulary knowledge, and listening comprehension on English reading comprehension. Results revealed a significant main effect for Spanish vocabulary knowledge and an interaction between Spanish vocabulary and English fluency, such that faster English readers benefited more from Spanish vocabulary knowledge than their less fluent counterparts. This study demonstrates the existence of literary skills transfer from the 1st to the 2nd language, as well as limits on such transfer.
Homocysteine and cardiovascular disease: a review of current recommendations for screening and treatment.

Purpose To review the literature for, and provide advanced practice nurses (APNs) with, current recommendations for screening and treatment of hyperhomocysteinemia. Data sources Medscape literature search of selected research studies and related journal articles. Conclusions While data from most epidemiologic studies support the argument that hyperhomocysteinemia is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease, the debate continues as to when screening and treating patients is appropriate. The consensus is that more randomized controlled trials are needed to further study the benefits of routine screening and the efficacy of treating hyperhomocysteinemia. Implications for practice Until the results of ongoing clinical trials are available, APNs should follow the American Heart Association guidelines for screening for elevated levels of homocysteine and continue to promote a well-balanced diet that includes foods rich in folic acid as part of health promotion through primary prevention.
Quantitative analysis of neonatal skeletal muscle functional improvement in the mouse

Postnatal skeletal muscle growth is classically attributed to fiber hypertrophy and myogenic differentiation, but these processes do not account for the size-independent increase of muscle mechanical performance that occurs during postnatal growth. There is also little knowledge about the precise time-course of contractile function or the underlying factors that affect it. The present study investigated morphological factors (muscle fiber size and myofibrillar packing), biochemical factors (myosin heavy chain isoform and desmin intermediate filament protein expression), and muscle architecture during postnatal development in mice. Physiological testing of the mouse tibialis anterior revealed that maximum isometric stress increased from 27+/-3 kPa at postnatal day 1 to 169+/-10 kPa by postnatal day 28, roughly a sixfold increase. Morphological measurements revealed a robust increase in the size-independent packing of myofibrillar matrix material occurring with the functional improvement, with just 48.1+/-5.5% of the cross-sectional area filled with myofibrils at postnatal day 1 whereas 92.5+/-0.9% was filled by day 28. Expression of four myosin heavy chain isoforms (embryonic, neonatal, IIX and IIB), as well as desmin, correlated significantly with muscle mechanical function. Stepwise multiple regression showed that, of the variables measured, percentage content of neonatal myosin heavy chain was the best predictor of mechanical function during the postnatal time-course. These data provide the first specific structural basis for increases in muscle tension development during growth. Therefore, models of muscle growth must be modified to include an intrinsic quality enhancement component.
Genome-wide search for sarcoidosis susceptibility genes in African Americans.

Sarcoidosis, a systemic granulomatous disease of unknown etiology, likely results from an environmental insult in a genetically susceptible host. In the US, African Americans are more commonly affected with sarcoidosis and suffer greater morbidity than Caucasians. We searched for sarcoidosis susceptibility loci by conducting a genome-wide, sib pair multipoint linkage analysis in 229 African-American families ascertained through two or more sibs with a history of sarcoidosis. Using the Haseman–Elston regression technique, linkage peaks with P-values less than 0.05 were identified on chromosomes 1p22, 2p25, 5p15-13, 5q11, 5q35, 9q34, 11p15 and 20q13 with the most prominent peak at D5S2500 on chromosome 5q11 (P=0.0005). We found agreement for linkage with the previously reported genome scan of a German population at chromosomes 1p and 9q. Based on the multiple suggestive regions for linkage found in our study population, it is likely that more than one gene influences sarcoidosis susceptibility in African Americans. Fine mapping of the linked regions, particularly on chromosome 5q, should help to refine linkage signals and guide further sarcoidosis candidate gene investigation.
Adaptive RF chain management for energy-efficient spatial-multiplexing MIMO transmission

We present the theoretical foundation, implementation, and experimental evaluation of a novel power-saving mechanism for wireless transmission from multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) transceivers, called RF chain management. RF chain management seeks to minimize the energy per bit for MIMO transmission, via adaptively choosing the optimal RF chain configuration, and satisfies the minimum data rate requirement at the same time. Our simulation shows that up to 45% and averagely 23% energy per bit reduction can be achieved. We have also built a prototype based on the WARP platform, and our experimental results have proved the feasibility of RF chain management in real systems and under realistic channels.
Chloroplast genome sequencing analysis of Heterosigma akashiwo CCMP452 (West Atlantic) and NIES293 (West Pacific) strains

Heterokont algae form a monophyletic group within the stramenopile branch of the tree of life. These organisms display wide morphological diversity, ranging from minute unicells to massive, bladed forms. Surprisingly, chloroplast genome sequences are available only for diatoms, representing two (Coscinodiscophyceae and Bacillariophyceae) of approximately 18 classes of algae that comprise this taxonomic cluster. A universal challenge to chloroplast genome sequencing studies is the retrieval of highly purified DNA in quantities sufficient for analytical processing. To circumvent this problem, we have developed a simplified method for sequencing chloroplast genomes, using fosmids selected from a total cellular DNA library. The technique has been used to sequence chloroplast DNA of two Heterosigma akashiwo strains. This raphidophyte has served as a model system for studies of stramenopile chloroplast biogenesis and evolution. H. akashiwo strain CCMP452 (West Atlantic) chloroplast DNA is 160,149 bp in size with a 21,822-bp inverted repeat, whereas NIES293 (West Pacific) chloroplast DNA is 159,370 bp in size and has an inverted repeat of 21,665 bp. The fosmid cloning technique reveals that both strains contain an isomeric chloroplast DNA population resulting from an inversion of their single copy domains. Both strains contain multiple small inverted and tandem repeats, non-randomly distributed within the genomes. Although both CCMP452 and NIES293 chloroplast DNAs contains 197 genes, multiple nucleotide polymorphisms are present in both coding and intergenic regions. Several protein-coding genes contain large, in-frame inserts relative to orthologous genes in other plastids. These inserts are maintained in mRNA products. Two genes of interest in H. akashiwo, not previously reported in any chloroplast genome, include tyr C, a tyrosine recombinase, which we hypothesize may be a result of a lateral gene transfer event, and an unidentified 456 amino acid protein, which we hypothesize serves as a G-protein-coupled receptor. The H. akashiwo chloroplast genomes share little synteny with other algal chloroplast genomes sequenced to date. The fosmid cloning technique eliminates chloroplast isolation, does not require chloroplast DNA purification, and reduces sequencing processing time. Application of this method has provided new insights into chloroplast genome architecture, gene content and evolution within the stramenopile cluster.
Residents' Satisfaction with Foodservice at a Continuing Care Retirement Community: A Pilot Study

The post–World War II generations, “Swing” and “Baby Boom,” are now reaching retirement age; these two generations form a large segment of the population, thus, what they do and what they think has a major effect on demographics and economies. This study evaluated residents' satisfaction levels with the foodservice delivered within the Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC). The results indicate that tangibles and reliability among five service-quality dimensions significantly impacted the respondents' overall satisfaction levels. Therefore, by focusing on tangibles and reliability, management may increase residents' overall satisfaction.
Postclassic Maya slips and paints and their relationship to socio-political groups in El Petén, Guatemala

LA-ICP-MS analysis of the chemical composition of the exterior slips and red and black pigments used for painted decoration of the three Postclassic Maya slipped ceramic wares suggests that the Itza and Kowoj used different pigments for exterior slips and decorative motifs. Additionally, different slips and paints were used depending on vessel form and decorative program (red, black, or red-and-black painting or incising). When examined with previous ceramic paste chemical analyses, the data aid in better understanding the changing socio-political alliances and dominance relations in central Peten at the eve of Spanish contact.
THE EFFECTS OF PROPANIDID ON ARTERIAL PRESSURE, PULSE RATE, PREGANGLIONIC SYMPATHETIC ACTIVITY AND BAROSTATIC REFLEXES IN THE CAT

We have studied the effects of propanidid on preganglionic cervical sympathetic nervous activity, arterial pressure, pulse rate and barostatic reflexes of the cat. Normal, hypertensive, baroreceptor denervated and decerebrate animals with sectioned vagal nerves were studied. On the basis of our findings it is concluded that propanidid exerts its depressant action on the cardiovascular system directly. Central circulatory control mechanisms are essentially unaffected. The depression of arterial pressure caused by propanidid is moderated by two compensatory mechanisms: normal barostatic reflexes causing an increased sympathetic tone in response to hypotension and a vagolytic action of propanidid.
Relationship between elastic anisotropy and texture in metal-matrix composites

Abstract The relationship between elastic anisotropy and texture in two-phase metal-matrix composites has been developed under certain conditions. Using measurements of the six independent ultrasonic velocities V ij in samples of the aluminium alloys 8091 and 7064 containing up to 20% SiC particles and the formulation given by Bunge, the fourt-order expansion coefficients of the orientation distribution function are determined. The Young's moduli in different directions are also obtained from ultrasonic velocity measurements. Linear correlations between anisotropy described by Young's moduli and texture determined by orientation distribution function expansion coefficients are obtained, and confirm developed relationships for two-phase metal-matrix composites. This result shows that ultrasonic measurements provide a technique for the characterization of texture and elastic anisotropy in these materials.
Durability and Survivability of Piezoelectric Wafer Active Sensors on Metallic Structure

Piezoelectric wafer active sensors are small, inexpensive, noninvasive, elastic wave generators/receptors that can be easily affixed to a structure. Piezoelectric wafer active sensor installation on the health-monitored structure is an important step that may have significant bearing on the success of the health monitoring process. The purpose of this paper is to explore the durability and survivability issues associated with various environmental conditions on piezoelectric wafer active sensors for structural health monitoring. The durability and survivability of the piezoelectric wafer active sensor transducers under various exposures (cryogenic and high temperature, temperature cycling, outdoor environment, operational fluids, large strains, fatigue load cycling) were considered over a long period of time. Both free piezoelectric wafer active sensors and bonded piezoelectric wafer active sensors on metallic structural substrates were used. Different adhesives and protective coatings were compared to find the candidate for piezoelectric wafer active sensor application in structural health monitoring. In most cases, piezoelectric wafer active sensors survived the tests successfully. The cases when piezoelectric wafer active sensors did not survive the tests were closely examined and possible causes of failure were discussed. The test results indicate that lead zirconate titanate piezoelectric wafer active sensors can be successfully used in a cryogenic environment; however, it does not seem to be a good candidate for high temperature. Repeated differential thermal expansion and extended environmental attacks can lead to piezoelectric wafer active sensor failure. This emphasizes the importance of achieving the proper design of the adhesive bond between the piezoelectric wafer active sensor and the structure, and of using a protective coating to minimize the ingression of adverse agents. The high-strain tests indicated that the piezoelectric wafer active sensors remained operational up to at least 3000 microstrain and failed beyond 6000 microstrain. In the fatigue cyclic loading, conducted up to 12 millions of cycles, the piezoelectric wafer active sensor transducers sustained at least as many fatigue cycles as the structural coupon specimens on which they were installed.
Medial septal lesions, hippocampal theta rhythm and the control of vibrissal movement in the freely moving rat.

Abstract Electrical activity was recorded from the dorso-medial hippocampus in freely moving rats via chronically implanted bipolar electrodes. Observations are reported on the occurence of hippocampal theta rhythm, and changes in its frequency, amplitude and regularity, during exploratory behaviour, vibrissal movement, drinking, grooming and fearful crouching. Lesions were produced in the medial septal area electrolytically via a second chronically implanted electrode while the animal was freely moving. Data are reported on the resulting disruption of hippocampal theta rhythm for periods of up to 7 weeks after the lesion. In some cases disruption of normal bilaterally synchronous and temporally regular vibrissal movement also resulted from the lesion, but this effect and the disturbance in theta rhythm were dissociable.
Studies of charge transfer at liquid | liquid interfaces and bilayer lipid membranes by scanning electrochemical microscopy

Abstract The principles of scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) and its application to studies of electron transfer at the interface between two immiscible electrolyte solutions are reviewed. The results of SECM measurements with a number of redox couples at the bare liquid | liquid interface or an interface with a lipid monolayer suggest that the electron transfer follows that predicted by Marcus theory, with evidence for an inverted region. The SECM can also be used to probe processes at bilayer lipid membranes.
Squamous cell carcinoma of the rectum: a single institution experience

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the rectum is a rare disorder. There is currently no effective method as to how best treat patients with this condition. The purpose of this study was to review a single tertiary institution’s experience. A retrospective chart review was conducted of all patients who presented with documented SCC of the rectum over a 10-year period (2000–2010). During the study period, all patients were offered chemoradiation as an initial treatment modality [a fluorouracil (5-FU)-based regimen in conjunction with mitomycin or cisplatin]. Six patients presented with primary rectal SCC. Mean patient age was 60 years. The majority of patients were female (83 %). The most common presenting symptom was rectal bleeding (67 %). The mean distance from the inferior tumor margin to the anal verge was 6 cm. Two patients (33 %) presented with stage II disease, and 4 (67 %) were stage III. Five patients (83 %) received chemoradiation therapy initially, and 1 patient underwent abdominoperineal resection after refusing chemoradiation. Two additional patients (33 %) underwent salvage surgery. During a mean follow-up of 44 months, 4 patients (66 %) were alive without evidence of disease. Based on the results of this cases series, chemoradiation as an initial primary therapy appears to be beneficial for patients with primary SCC of the rectum. A 5-FU chemotherapy-based regimen in conjunction with fractionated radiotherapy appears to be effective for local control of the disease.
Treating hoarding disorder in childhood: A case study

Abstract This study examines the treatment methods and outcomes for an 11-year-old Caucasian boy presenting with pediatric hoarding disorder and a DSM-IV diagnosis of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The boy and his mother participated in eleven sessions of developmentally sensitive cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with a predominantly behavioral focus due to the child’s difficulties comprehending verbal and written materials. Treatment components consisted of psychoeducation, cognitive restructuring, creation of a personalized fear and avoidance hierarchy, implementation of problem-solving skills, in-session and out-of-session exposures, and contingent reinforcement. Results of the treatment were promising, with weekly items saved shifting from 28 to 0 from pre- to post-treatment, and average anxiety about discarding items shifting from 5 to 0 on a 0–8 scale. Scores on the Child Saving Inventory shifted from 52 to 27 over the course of the 11-session treatment. Treatment gains were maintained at 18-month follow-up. Currently there is a proposal to include hoarding disorder as an independent diagnostic entity in the upcoming DSM-5. In light of limited data evaluating methods for treating pediatric hoarding, the promising results of this case study can inform the development and formal evaluation of optimal procedures for working with youth who present with this unique set of symptoms.
Stokes’ first problem for a Rivlin–Ericksen fluid of second grade in a porous half-space

Abstract Stokes’ first problem for a Rivlin–Ericksen fluid of second grade in a porous half-space is considered under isothermal conditions. Laplace transform techniques are used to determine the exact solution, temporal limits, small-time expressions, and displacement thickness. In addition, special/limiting cases are noted, energy aspects are covered, and numerical results are presented graphically. Most significantly, it is shown that the flow suffers a jump discontinuity on start-up, that due to this jump a nonpositive steady-state development time can result, and that for a special case of the material constants the flow instantly attains its steady-state configuration.
Regulation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition in palatal fusion.

During palatal fusion, the midline epithelial seam between the palatal shelves degrades to achieve mesenchymal confluence. Morphological and molecular evidence support the theory that the epithelial-mesenchymal transition is one mechanism that regulates palatal fusion. It appears that transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signaling plays a role in palatal EMT. TGFβ3 is the main inducer in palatal fusion and activates both Smad-dependent and -independent signaling pathways, including the key EMT transcription factors, Lef1, Twist, and Snail1, in the MEE prior to the palatal EMT program. The roles and interactions among these transcription factors will be discussed.
Peridinosterol - a new Δ17-unsaturated sterol from two cultured marine algae

Abstract X-ray diffraction analysis of peridinosterol p-bromobenzoate has shown the parent sterol to be E-4α,23R,24R-trimethylcholest-17(20)-en-3β-ol - a new member of the rare Δ 17 -unsaturated sterol class. Its possible biosynthetic origin is discussed.
The effect of buthionine sulfoximine, an inhibitor of glutathione synthesis, on hepatic drug metabolism in the male mouse

Buthionine sulfoximine significantly reduced the hepatic non-protein sulfhydryl (NPSH) content of male B6C3F1 mice within 2 h after intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection. This treatment did not affect the activity of several hepatic microsomal and cytosolic enzymes responsible for xenobiotic metabolism. Pretreatment of mice with buthionine sulfoximine (2 mmol/kg) increased the hepatotoxicity of chloroform, but did not affect the hepatotoxicity of carbon tetrachloride. These findings suggest that buthionine sulfoximine can be a useful agent for studying the role of glutathione (GSH) in hepatic biotransformation of xenobiotics.
Free radicals in ischemic myocardial injury.

Abstract Myrocardial ischemia causes release of chemotactic factors, migration of neutrophils, peroxidation of lipids, and depletion of free radical scavengers. The invading neutrophils may injure the myrocardial vasculature and sarcolemma by generating oxygen free radicals. Several agents that affect neutrophils or oxygen radicals were evaluated in a canine model of regional myocardial ischemia and reperfusion. Anesthetized dogs underwent occlusion and reperfusion of the left circumflex coronary artery. Infarct zone, area at risk infarction, and total left ventricle were quantified by gravimetric and planimetric analysis. Limitation of infarct size by ibuprofen was associated with marked suppression of leukocyte accumulation within the ischemic myocardium. Neutrophil depletion by antiserum resulted in similar reductions of infarct size and was accompanied by a reduction in leukocyte infiltration. A combination of oxygen radical scaverngers, superoxide dismutase plus catalase, decreased myocardial injury whether infusion began before occlusion or 75 min after occlusion. None of the treatments significantly altered hemodynamic indices of myocardial oxygen demand. Reduction of infarct size by ibuprofen, neutrophil antiserum, and free radical scavengers indicates that neutrophils and oxygen radicals participate in producing the irreversible damage to the myocardium during ischemia and reperfusion.
NEGATIVE BIAS TEMPERATURE INSTABILITY IN TIN/HF-SILICATE BASED GATE STACKS

This work studies the effects of negative bias temperature instability (NBTI) on p-channel MOSFETS with TiN/HfSixOy (20% SiO2 based high-κ gate stacks under different gate bias and elevated temperature conditions. For low bias conditions, threshold voltage shift (ΔVT) is most probably due to the mixed degradation within the bulk high-κ. For moderately high bias conditions, H-species dissociation in the presence of holes and subsequent diffusion may be initially responsible for interface state and positively charged bulk trap generation. Initial time, temperature and oxide electric field dependence of ΔVT in our devices shows an excellent match with that of SiO2 based devices, which is explained by reaction-diffusion (R-D) model of NBTI. Under high bias condition at elevated temperatures, due to higher Si-H bond-annealing/bond-breaking ratio, the experimentally observed absence of the impact ionization induced hot holes at the interfacial layer (IL)/Si interface probably limits the interface state generation and ΔVT as they quickly reach saturation.
The Making of A Research Economist

Abstract In this article, we attempt to identify the personal and institutional variables that correlate with the productivity of research economists. A study group of prolific research economists was compared with a randomly selected control group. The data reveal some significant group differences in attitudes and work habits of economists, suggesting changes that both individuals and institutions could make to increase research output. Suggestions on how to improve doctoral programs in economics are also offered.
Cinema 4D XL: advanced 3D software for educators and studio professionals

From the Oscar winning film, Gladiator, to studios, such as Pacific Data Images (PDI), Cinema 4D XL has been used for background design, modeling, and pre-visualization artwork. With its user-friendly interface, powerful animation, advanced modeling tools, and high-speed rendering technology, major film and animation studios, as well as educators have utilized it. Cinema 4D XL's advanced tools, such as a VRML plug-in and various modeling systems, can be used to integrate art with other subjects in the classroom. Because of its user-friendly architecture, Cinema 4D XL is well suited for introductory courses in 3D animation and modeling. With one of the fastest radiosity rendering engines, advanced students and studio professionals will also value the application. Students at all levels will have the capability of building professional digital portfolios.
Pediatric T- and NK-cell lymphomas : new biologic insights and treatment strategies

T- and natural killer (NK)-cell lymphomas are challenging childhood neoplasms. These cancers have varying presentations, vast molecular heterogeneity, and several are quite unusual in the West, creating diagnostic challenges. Over 20 distinct T- and NK-cell neoplasms are recognized by the 2008 World Health Organization classification, demonstrating the diversity and potential complexity of these cases. In pediatric populations, selection of optimal therapy poses an additional quandary, as most of these malignancies have not been studied in large randomized clinical trials. Despite their rarity, exciting molecular discoveries are yielding insights into these clinicopathologic entities, improving the accuracy of our diagnoses of these cancers, and expanding our ability to effectively treat them, including the use of new targeted therapies. Here, we summarize this fascinating group of lymphomas, with particular attention to the three most common subtypes: T-lymphoblastic lymphoma, anaplastic large cell lymphoma, and peripheral T-cell lymphoma-not otherwise specified. We highlight recent findings regarding their molecular etiologies, new biologic markers, and cutting-edge therapeutic strategies applied to this intriguing class of neoplasms.
A limit to intensity perception

R. Teghtsoonian (1971) argued that psychological dynamic range and subjective resolving power are constant for all perceptual intensity scales. It follows that there is an upper limit to the number of sensations humans can process on all scales, and a formula is developed.
P-94: Twisted PDLC for High Contrast Reflective Displays

A high brightness and high contrast reflective display using twisted-boundary polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (TPDLC) is developed. The TPDLC is polarization independent while exhibiting a higher contrast ratio and lower operating voltage as compared to the conventional PDLC film. A black and white segmented-alphabet reflective display using a dye-doped TPDLC is also demonstrated.
Changes in therapeutic proteins caused by preparation techniques.

Excerpt Commercial development of therapeutic proteins ("biologicals"), such as human immunoglobulins, interferons, and interleukins, as therapeutic agents has increased in recent years as advances...
Intracranial Hypertension in Children without Papilledema

Researchers at Nationwide Children's Hospital studied the frequency of intracranial hypertension without papilledema in children followed in a multispecialty pediatric intracranial hypertension clinic.
An Animal Model of Spontaneous Arrhythmic Death

Ventricular arrhythmias and the proclivity for sudden death have been identified in German shepherd dogs. This disorder is inherited, and affected animals can be consistently produced from an established colony. The arrhythmias are most prevalent in young dogs between 22 and 26 weeks of age, with death most frequent at this same age. Death occurs most frequently during presumed sleep or at rest after exercise or excitement. The QT interval is not prolonged; however, more frequent notching of the T wave exists in affected dogs compared to control dogs. Polymorphic rapid nonsustained ventricular tachycardia occurs most frequently following long RR intervals. Accordingly, perturbations that decrease the heart rate or enhance sinus arrhythmia increase the incidence of ventricular arrhythmias. Because the arrhythmias are age, behavior, and heart rate dependent, the autonomic nervous system may play a role in their generation. As determined by metaiodobenzyl-guanidine scintigraphy and immunocytochemical staining of tyrosine hydroxylase, cardiac sympathetic innervation is regionally deficient in affected dogs. Evidence suggests that initiation of the ventricular arrhythmias is caused by early afterdepolarization (EAD)-induced triggered activity originating from left ventricular Purkinje fibers. Alpha 1-adrenergic stimulation provokes EADs in the Purkinje fibers and ventricular arrhythmias in the dogs. The development of EADs may be related to heterogeneity of repolarizing currents (Ito in particular) in affected dogs. From this canine model of spontaneous ventricular arrhythmias, the opportunity exists to investigate the interplay between abnormal development of cardiac innervation and the genesis of lethal ventricular arrhythmias.
IMPACT: imprecise adders for low-power approximate computing

Low-power is an imperative requirement for portable multimedia devices employing various signal processing algorithms and architectures. In most multimedia applications, the final output is interpreted by human senses, which are not perfect. This fact obviates the need to produce exactly correct numerical outputs. Previous research in this context exploits error-resiliency primarily through voltage over-scaling, utilizing algorithmic and architectural techniques to mitigate the resulting errors. In this paper, we propose logic complexity reduction as an alternative approach to take advantage of the relaxation of numerical accuracy. We demonstrate this concept by proposing various imprecise or approximate Full Adder (FA) cells with reduced complexity at the transistor level, and utilize them to design approximate multi-bit adders. In addition to the inherent reduction in switched capacitance, our techniques result in significantly shorter critical paths, enabling voltage scaling. We design architectures for video and image compression algorithms using the proposed approximate arithmetic units, and evaluate them to demonstrate the efficacy of our approach. Post-layout simulations indicate power savings of up to 60% and area savings of up to 37% with an insignificant loss in output quality, when compared to existing implementations.
Nano-Enabled Metal Oxide Varistors for Surge Protection

Commercial metal oxide varistor (MOV) devices provide a combination of high voltage, peak current, pulse energy absorption, and fast response speed. The non-uniformity and defects, however, may lead to relatively low voltage and energy dissipation, high leakage, low reliability and mechanical cracking. GE global research has been studying NanoMOV technology, and has been developing new formulations and processes. New compositions were invented to enable sintering at much lower temperatures, which exhibits improved I-V characteristics and microstructure uniformity. These compositions not only show high resistance at low fields and breakdown voltage (1-5 kV/mm), but also a large alpha at high fields (50-140). The higher breakdown strength (> 10x) compared to commercially available MOVs will enable MOV miniaturization, high voltage surge protection, and open up new areas of usage.
A novel method for video-on-demand via digital broadcast

We propose a new method for the on-demand delivery of streaming media over a small number of multicast channels to large numbers of receivers called Truncated Exponential Partitioning (TEP). Objects delivered using TEP are consumed from the beginning to the end in a linear fashion. This allows their data to be segmented and carried in different channels that are scheduled so that each can arrive just in time for presentation. As a consequence, the amount of storage required in the receiver, access latency, and bandwidth required for a desired level of performance are minimized. Quantitative expressions for these metrics are derived for TEP and compared to a similar scheme skyscraper broadcasting (SB) scheme from which the design of TEP was based. Simulations show that TEP offers superior performance to the SE scheme. Finally, an architecture for delivering movies over cable networks using TEP is proposed.
Morbidity in asthma in relation to the menstrual cycle

After observing three cases of severe recurrent exacerbations of asthma in relation to menstruation, we conducted a survey among women with asthma inquiring about the relationship of asthma symptoms to the menstrual cycle. Of 57 women with asthma, 19 (33%) had significant worsening (p = 0.006) of total pulmonary symptom scores during either the premenstrual period, the menstrual period, or both with maximum increase in dyspnea, wheezing, and chest tightness during the premenstrual period (p = 0.002). The other 38 (66%) women noted no such changes in their asthma. Logistic regression analysis comparing women with and without worsening of their asthma around menstruation revealed that the former group reported significantly more severe wheezing in general (p less than 0.05) and also more severe pulmonary symptoms during the premenstrual period (p less than 0.05). Of the women whose asthma was affected by menses, 13 (68%) had been hospitalized for asthma but only 10 (26%) of the women who were unaffected (p = 0.002). Both dysmenorrhea scores and premenstrual syndrome scores correlated significantly with baseline pulmonary symptom scores in the premenstrual asthma group. It appears that asthma morbidity is affected by the menstrual cycle in a subgroup of women with asthma.
Cerebral ATP and lactate levels in the squirrel monkey following occlusion of the middle cerebral artery.

Previous studies have shown that occlusion of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) of the squirrel monkey results in a consistent large infarct; that in the initial two hours after occlusion of the MCA, blood flow in the central area of ischemia continues at a reduced rate (20% to 50% of normal); and that restoration of normal flow within three hours results in a survival rate of 65% without infarction. In this study, cerebral adenosine triphosphate (ATP), lactate, and pyruvate concentrations were measured at various time intervals after occlusion of the MCA. ATP decreased slowly during a three-hour period to 30% of normal, and lactate, after an initial rapid accumulation, increased slowly to about eight times normal. This compares to the effects of circulatory arrest which, in the dog, results in a reduction of the ATP level to 25% of normal within four minutes and a reciprocal increase in the lactate level. Because the effects of total cerebral anoxia are potentially reversible prior to four minutes, and, therefore, at an ATP concentration above 25% of normal, the slow rate of ATP depletion observed in the ischemic monkey brain supports the view that a significant period exists after occlusion of a major intracranial vessel wherein the ischemic effects are potentially reversible. Using the methods of this study, future investigations should permit a meaningful evaluation of the relative merits of those measures recommended for the treatment of acute cerebral ischemia.
Calcium and vitamin D in obesity

New and more effective nutritional measures are urgently needed for the prevention of obesity. The role of Ca and vitamin D in obesity has been recently implicated. Low Ca intake and low vitamin D status have been linked with an increased risk of obesity in epidemiological studies; however, clinical intervention trials designed to test this association have produced controversial results. The suggested anti-obesity mechanisms of Ca and vitamin D include the regulation of adipocyte death (apoptosis), adipogenesis and lipid metabolism. Dietary Ca has been also shown to increase faecal fat excretion. The potential role of Ca and vitamin D in shifting energy balance towards a more negative state is an area of considerable interest. Ultimately, a review of recent research findings does not allow the reaching of a definitive conclusion that increasing Ca intake and rising vitamin D status will influence fat mass and body weight or decrease the risk of obesity and overweight.
Underspecification in the height harmony system of Pasiego

The recent phonological literature has witnessed the emergence of a significant body of research under the rubric of underspecification theory. This model of inquiry was first proposed by Kiparsky (I982), developed more deeply in Archangeli (i984), and is articulated most exhaustively in Archangeli & Pulleyblank (forthcoming a). One of the most basic assumptions advanced in these works is that for each contrastive feature one value is specified underlyingly and the other is inserted by default. Feature changing harmony, which requires both values to be underlying, is a particularly interesting challenge to this claim and appears to undermine its restrictiveness. Indeed, it figures prominently in some recent proposals, such as Steriade (i987b), to justify relaxing the theory and admit both feature values at the underlying level. Feature changing harmony is generally acknowledged to be extremely rare (cf. Lieber I987). Height harmony in the Pasiego dialect of Montanfes Spanish, as analysed by McCarthy (1984), is widely cited as one of the most solid pieces of evidence for the reality of feature changing harmony. The main purpose of this article is to demonstrate that Pasiego height harmony is in fact not feature changing. Rather, the facts provide additional support for the strongly constrained model of underspecification which recognises only one underlying feature value. In ? 2 I outline the basic facts and McCarthy's feature changing analysis. In ?3 I account for the transparency of the low vowel /a/ in terms of the interaction of feature architecture and segmental underspecification. In ?4 I motivate the underspecification of the feature [high], thus obviating the feature changing property of height harmony. In ? 5 I argue that in general the feature [high] is floating in underlying structure. In ?6 I discuss the formalisms that first link and then spread the feature [high]. Finally, in ?7 I summarise the major findings and draw conclusions for phonological theory.
Myocardial stunning secondary to aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage

BACKGROUND Although subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is often associated with electrocardiographic abnormalities, profound effects on cardiac performance are rare. CASE DESCRIPTION A 57-year-old woman who developed loss of consciousness, respiratory distress, severe hypotension, and left ventricular hypokinesis with minimal coronary artery disease is described. Despite normal appearance of the coronary arteries on angiography, left ventricle function was so severely depressed that she required intra-aortic balloon pump support for 24 hours. Mental status changes prompted a head computed tomographic (CT) scan, which showed severe SAH and an intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH). Cerebral angiography demonstrated a basilar apex aneurysm. An echocardiogram done on hospital day 6 was normal. A left frontal ventriculostomy catheter was placed. This was later changed to a lumbar subarachnoid (SA) drain. The patient underwent an orbito-zygomatic craniotomy and aneurysm clipping. Although several serious medical problems occurred during her hospitalization, at follow-up, her sole neurological impairment was a minimal and resolving oculomotor paresis. CONCLUSION This patient's respiratory failure and severe hypotension were initially thought to be due to a chemical pneumonitis or a cardiomyopathy. However, her symptoms ultimately proved to be secondary to a ruptured basilar apex aneurysm. The complex relationship of SAH to myocardial stunning, as illustrated by this patient, is discussed.
Methylene Blue-induced hyperbilirubinemia in neonatal Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) Deficiency

Methylene blue continues to be used in the gravid female. We report three premature neonates exposed to methylene blue that experienced severe hemolytic reactions requiring exchange transfusions. Two neonates were subsequently diagnosed with G6PD deficiency. Continued caution is warranted prior to the use of methylene blue in the gravid female.
Highly overcomplete sparse coding

This paper explores sparse coding of natural images in the highly overcomplete regime. We show that as the overcompleteness ratio approaches l0x, new types of dictionary elements emerge beyond the classical Gabor function shape obtained from complete or only modestly overcomplete sparse coding. These more diverse dic­ tionaries allow images to be approximated with lower L1 norm (for a fixed SNR), and the coefficients exhibit steeper decay. We also evaluate the learned dictionaries in a denoising task, showing that higher degrees of overcompleteness yield modest gains in peformance.
5-DoF trajectory reconstruction for handheld ultrasound with local sensors

Handheld 2D ultrasound is very useful for intra-operative imaging, but requires some reconstruction effort in order to create 3D US volumes, unless one is using large and expensive 3D US probes. Common probe tracking approaches involve either global tracking mechanisms (suffering from jitter and complexity) or local tracking algorithms (e.g. image-based, suffering from drift). We propose to use a combination of local sensors to reconstruct the probe trajectory with multiple degrees of freedom. These sensors can be very low-cost - e.g. optical mice and a Wii Remote - yet enable simple 3D US acquisition with no global tracking overhead. The resulting trajectories can be used as input for 3D US algorithms or constrain image-based approaches.
Implementation of a Curriculum Leading to a Baccalaureate Degree in Nanoscale Science

The College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering (CNSE) at the University at Albany has developed an academic curriculum leading to the degree of Bachelor of Science in Nanoscale Science. This curriculum represents a 132-credit program designed for completion in eight academic semesters and is consistent with the SUNY General Education Program requirements as implemented at the University at Albany. This curriculum comprises a cutting-edge, inherently interdisciplinary, academic program centered on scholarly excellence, educational quality, and technical and pedagogical innovation. The blueprint for this curriculum is comprised of four basic components: a “ Foundational Principles ”’ component, a “ Core Competency ” component, a “ Concentration ” component and a “ Capstone Research/Design ” component. The first two components are designed to integrate the dissemination of fundamental, cross-disciplinary, nanoscale science and engineering principles with the cultivation of the critical skill set necessary for advanced undergraduate coursework and interdisciplinary research. The remaining two components expand on these foundational skills to develop the topical expertise, technical depth, and independent research abilities that are essential to a well-rounded undergraduate educational experience. The combination of these instructional tools ensures a customizable and coherent undergraduate degree program that trains the student's intellect how to explore, discover, and innovate, while ensuring its proficiency in a specific nanoscale discipline. The outcome is a unique undergraduate experience that taps into CNSE's global academic leadership in nanoscale science and engineering to attract and educate a diverse and talented pool of qualified scientists and engineers at the baccalaureate level.
Genetic architecture of flowering time differentiation between locally adapted populations of Arabidopsis thaliana

Summary To gain an understanding of the genetic basis of adaptation, we conducted quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping for flowering time variation between two winter annual populations of Arabidopsis thaliana that are locally adapted and display distinct flowering times. QTL mapping was performed with large (n = 384) F2 populations with and without vernalization, in order to reveal both the genetic basis of a vernalization requirement and that of variation in flowering time given vernalization. In the nonvernalization treatment, none of the Sweden parents flowered, whereas all of the Italy parents and 42% of the F2s flowered. We identified three QTLs for flowering without vernalization, with much of the variation being attributed to a QTL co-localizing with FLOWERING LOCUS C (FLC). In the vernalization treatment, all parents and F2s flowered, and six QTLs of small to moderate effect were revealed, with underlying candidate genes that are members of the vernalization pathway. We found no evidence for a role of FRIGIDA in the regulation of flowering times. These results contribute to a growing body of evidence aimed at the identification of ecologically relevant genetic variation for flowering time in Arabidopsis, and set the stage for functional studies to determine the link between flowering time loci and fitness.
Modest salt intake reduction for 4 weeks or longer decreases blood pressure

Commentary on: He FJ, Li J, Macgregor GA. Effect of longer-term modest salt reduction on blood pressure. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2013;4:CD004937 Hypertension is a primary cause of death and disability.1 Despite great strides in achieving BP targets, the majority of patients remain undertreated. Current recommendations include the dietary approaches to stop hypertension (DASH) diet and sodium reduction (6 g/day salt).1 DASH-sodium is the sequel to the DASH study, as salt was not a factor originally.2 Reductions in the BP by decreasing salt, while not as impressive as with DASH, were still substantial. A reduction of 4 g/day of salt for …
Electoral Laws and the Effective Number of Candidates in Presidential Elections

This study employs data from 33 countries over a 50-year period to analyze the institutional determinants of the effective number of presidential candidates. I find the presidential electoral formula-plurality versus majority runoff-to have a strong and significant impact on the effective number of candidates, thereby providing the most substantial support thus far for Duverger's propositions at the presidential level. Unlike previous cross-national studies, I also test for the effect of the presence or absence of an incumbent presidential candidate. The presence of an incumbent has a significant reductive effect on the effective number of candidates.