cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Multilevel hybrid 2D strain imaging algorithm for ultrasound sector/phased arrays

Two-dimensional (2D) cross-correlation algorithms are necessary to estimate local displacement vector information for strain imaging. However, most of the current two-dimensional cross-correlation algorithms were developed for linear array transducers. Although sector and phased arraytransducers are routinely used for clinical imaging of abdominal and cardiac applications, strain imaging for these applications has been performed using one-dimensional (1D) cross-correlation analysis. However, one-dimensional cross-correlation algorithms are unable to provide accurate and precise strain estimation along all the angular insonification directions which can range from − 45 ° to 45 ° with sector and phased array transducers. In addition, since sector and phased array based images have larger separations between beam lines as the pulse propagates deeper into tissue, signal decorrelation artifacts with deformation or tissue motion are more pronounced. In this article, the authors propose a multilevel two-dimensional hybrid algorithm for ultrasound sector and phased array data that demonstrate improved tracking and estimation performance when compared to the traditional 1D cross-correlation or 2D cross-correlation based methods. Experimental results demonstrate that the signal-to-noise and contrast-to-noise ratio estimates improve significantly for smaller window lengths for the hybrid method when compared to the currently used one-dimensional or two-dimensional cross-correlation algorithms. Strain imaging results on ex vivo thermal lesions created in liver tissue and in vivo on cardiac short-axis views demonstrate the improved image quality obtained with this method.
The defeats of Judges Haynsworth and Carswell: Rejection of Supreme Court nominees

In the pre‐Watergate period of his presidency, Richard Nixon failed to win approval of two Supreme Court nominations in the short period of eight months. This article examines the rhetorical grounds available for opposition and support for such nominations and the rhetorical strategies employed by rhetors supporting and opposing Haynsworth and Carswell.
Teaching Technical Writing in other Countries

There is essentially no teacher training for technical writing overseas. Western Europe follows United Kingdom practices because English is the primary scientific and technical language and the U.K.'s ISTC has assumed leadership on the continent. In the U.K., teachers are primarily concerned with preparing students for the external examinations given by the City and Guilds for certification of technical writers; elaborate teacher-training programs are unnecessary for this. Canada has not yet expanded course offerings sufficiently to create a demand for teachers of technical writing. Australia has this year decided to implement the U.K. procedure. While all nations train their scientists, en passant, to communicate in their own disciplines, none trains teachers of technical writing specifically.
STOP gene Phactr4 is a tumor suppressor

Cancer develops through genetic and epigenetic alterations that allow unrestrained proliferation and increased survival. Using a genetic RNAi screen, we previously identified hundreds of suppressors of tumorigenesis and/or proliferation (STOP) genes that restrain normal cell proliferation. Our STOP gene set was significantly enriched for known and putative tumor suppressor genes. Here, we report a tumor-suppressive role for one STOP gene, phosphatase and actin regulator 4 (PHACTR4). Phactr4 is one of four members of the largely uncharacterized Phactr family of protein phosphatase 1 (PP1)- and actin-binding proteins. Our work suggests that Phactr4 restrains normal cell proliferation and transformation. Depletion of Phactr4 with multiple shRNAs leads to increased proliferation and soft agar colony formation. Phactr4 acts, in part, through an Rb-dependent pathway, because Rb phosphorylation is maintained upon growth factor withdrawal in Phactr4-depleted cells. Examination of tumor copy number analysis and sequencing revealed that PHACTR4 is significantly deleted and mutant in many tumor subtypes. Furthermore, cancer cell lines with reduced Phactr4 expression exhibit tumor suppressor hypersensitivity upon Phactr4 complementation, leading to reduced proliferation, transformation, and tumor formation. Thus, Phactr4 acts as a tumor suppressor that is deleted and mutant in several cancers.
Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) prevents transformation of human cells by arsenite (As) and suppresses growth of As-transformed cells

Abstract Recent evidence suggests that inflammatory cytokines and growth factors contribute to arsenite (As)-induced human carcinogenesis. We investigated the expression of inflammatory cytokine mRNAs during the transformation process induced by chronic As exposure in non-tumorigenic human osteogenic sarcoma (N-HOS) cells using gene arrays, and results were confirmed by RT-PCR and protein arrays. Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), a naturally occurring immunomodulating agent, was used to evaluate the role of inflammatory factors in the process of As-mediated N-HOS cell transformation and in As-transformed HOS (AsT-HOS) cells. We found that an 8-week continuous exposure of N-HOS to 0.3 μM arsenite resulted in HOS cell transformation. That exposure also caused substantial decreases in inflammatory cytokine mRNAs, such as interleukin (IL) IL-1α, IL-2, IL-8, IL-18, MCP-1, TGF-β2, and TNF-α, while it increased c-jun mRNA in a time-dependent manner. Co-incubation of N-HOS with As and CAPE (0.5–2.5 μM) prevented As-mediated declines in cytokine mRNAs in the co-treated cells, as well as their transformation to anchorage independence, while it caused decreases in c-jun mRNA. CAPE (up to 10 μM) had no effect on growth of N-HOS cells. However, CAPE (1–10 μM) treatment of AsT-HOS cells inhibited cell growth, induced cell cycle G2/M arrest, and triggered apoptosis, accompanied by changes in cytokine gene expression, as well as decreases in cyclin B1 and cdc2 abundance. Resveratrol (RV) and (−) epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), preventive agents present in grapes and green tea, respectively, induced similar changes in AsT-HOS cell growth but required much higher doses than CAPE to cause 50% growth arrest (
Myths of the insanity defense: Inherent and procedural obstacles

Often societies perceptions can be shaped by the media not only by what it reports but by how it is reported. This article discusses the impact that the American media has had on the social perception that the insanity defense is too often successfully used to avoid legal and criminal culpability. Many of the procedural obstacles associated with the assertion of an insanity defense are poorly understood or ignored. The article further address some of the less attractive characteristics associated with the assertion of the insanity defense that are not procedurally founded but nonetheless serve as an impediment the wide spread use of the defense. In conclusion the insanity defense is submitted as an unavoidable necessary evil in a civilized society that incarcerates its criminals.
The Palestinian-Israeli Conflict and Palestinian Socioeconomic Decline: A Place Denied

Palestinian society and economy are slowly being dismembered. The transformations in land, labor, demography, and society have been stunning. The current context has many dimensions but is defined primarily by Israel's continued occupation of Palestinian lands. That context is also defined by the deterioration of the Palestinian economy, a humanitarian crisis characterized in large part by levels of impoverishment and social decline that have no parallel during Israel's 36-year occupation of the West Bank and Gaza, and the destruction of ordinary life. Not since 1948, perhaps, have Palestinians faced such conditions of loss and dispossession. Left unaddressed (as they are by the current US road map), these conditions will not only preclude a peaceful resolution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, but also seriously constrain Palestinian socioeconomic recovery and development.
Predictors of conversion to thoracotomy for video-assisted thoracoscopic lobectomy: A retrospective analysis and the influence of computed tomography–based calcification assessment

Objective Conversion to an open thoracotomy during video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery lobectomy is reported to occur in up to 23% of cases and can be associated with increased morbidity. We developed a preoperative computed tomography calcification score based on anatomic location and extent of calcifications to evaluate the ability to predict video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery conversion. Methods Patients undergoing planned video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery lobectomy between 2003 and 2009 were identified. Baseline demographics, comorbidities, operative data, and postoperative outcomes were reviewed. Preoperative chest computed tomography scans were examined by an attending thoracic surgeon. Calcifications were scored from 0 (none) to 6 (major hilar calcifications at the resection bronchus). Preoperative patient and tumor characteristics and the calcification score were analyzed for their ability to predict conversion. We then compared outcomes among patients undergoing video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery, converted video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery, and planned open thoracotomy. Results Of the 193 patients undergoing planned video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery lobectomy, 148 (77%) had a completed video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery lobectomy, and 45 (23%) underwent conversion to thoracotomy. The calcification score was found to independently predict video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery conversion. Patients who were converted to a thoracotomy had significantly higher 30-day mortality, more atrial arrhythmias, increased blood loss, longer operative time, and increased length of stay compared with those who underwent completed video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery lobectomy and longer length of stay compared with those undergoing planned open lobectomy. Conclusions Calcification score based on the location and degree of calcifications can predict the increased likelihood of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery conversion. This scoring system could be one element used to choose the approach for a lobectomy, especially during a surgeon's learning curve.
Supply chain configuration for diffusion of new products: An integrated optimization approach

Abstract We develop an integrated/hybrid optimization model for configuring new products’ supply chains while explicitly considering the impact of demand dynamics during new products’ diffusion. The hybrid model simultaneously determines optimal production/sales plan and supply chain configuration. The production and sales plan provides decisions on the optimal timing to launch a new product, as well as the production and sales quantity in each planning period. The supply chain configuration provides optimal selection of options and safety stock level kept at each supply chain function. Extensive computational experiments on randomly generated testbed problems indicate that the hybrid modeling and solution approach significantly outperforms non-hybrid alternative modeling and solution approaches under various diffusion and supply chain topologies. We provide insights on optimal production/sales plan and supply chain configuration for new products during their diffusion process. Also, managerial implications relevant to effectiveness of the hybrid approach are discussed.
Weak anomaly cancellation in even dimensions

Abstract The gauge anomaly for dimension d=2n⩾6 contains several irreducible components. The leading component must be cancelled, but the nonleading parts may be either cancelled or compensated by introducing new fields. The latter mechanism is illustrated by a few examples.
Prospective associations between bilingualism and executive function in Latino children: sustained effects while controlling for biculturalism.

The study purpose was to test 1-year prospective associations between English–Spanish bilingualism and executive function in 5th to 6th grade students while controlling for biculturalism. Participants included 182 US Latino students (50 % female). Self-report surveys assessed biculturalism, bilingualism, and executive function (i.e., working memory, organizational skills, inhibitory control, and emotional control, as well as a summary executive function score). General linear model regressions demonstrated that bilingualism significantly predicted the summary executive function score as well as working memory such that bilingual proficiency was positively related to executive function. Results are the first to demonstrate (a) prospective associations between bilingualism to executive function while controlling for the potential third variable of biculturalism, and (b) a principal role for working memory in this relationship. Since executive function is associated with a host of health outcomes, one implication of study findings is that bilingualism may have an indirect protective influence on youth development.
Superselective Ophthalmic Artery Chemotherapy as Primary Treatment for Retinoblastoma (Chemosurgery)

Purpose To report on our 3-year experience with the use of superselective ophthalmic artery infusion of chemotherapy as initial, primary treatment for intraocular retinoblastoma. Design Prospective, institutional review board-approved clinical trial. Participants Twenty-eight eyes of 23 newly diagnosed retinoblastoma patients (Reese-Ellsworth [RE] group V, 25 eyes; RE IV, 1 eye; RE III, 1 eye; RE II, 1 eye), ages 3–88 months (mean, 22; median, 11) followed for 3–37 months (mean, 15; median, 14). Methods Cannulation of 1 or both ophthalmic arteries in young children with retinoblastoma was performed via the femoral artery under general anesthesia on an outpatient basis and chemotherapy (melphalan [n = 12], melphalan plus topotecan [n = 7], melphalan plus topotecan and carboplatin [n = 3], or melphalan plus carboplatin [n = 1]) infused. Main Outcome Measures Patient survival, eye survival, systemic toxicity, complete blood counts, ophthalmic examination, retinal photography, and electroretinograms. Results We treated 23 newly diagnosed retinoblastoma patients initially with 75 separate intra-arterial chemotherapy infusions (range, 1–6 treatments; mean, 3.2) over a 3-year period. All children survived. Only 1 of the 28 eyes came to enucleation (for progressive disease). No eye was enucleated for ocular complications of the procedure and the only adverse ophthalmic findings were occasional transient lid edema, forehead hyperemia, and loss of nasal lashes. Kaplan-Meier enucleation free was 100% at 12 months and 89% at 2 years (95% confidence interval, 43%–98%). There were no deaths, strokes, or transfusions of any blood products; no effect on red cell count; 9 cycles of grade 3 and 1 cycle of grade 4 neutropenia; and no hospitalizations, episodes of fever/neutropenia, or complications at the site of femoral artery puncture. Conclusions The ophthalmic artery(s) of children can safely be repeatedly canulated in very young children and high concentrations (but low doses) of chemotherapy infused on an outpatient basis. When used as initial therapy superselective chemotherapy delivered through the ophthalmic artery prevented enucleation, primary radiation or the use of systemic chemotherapy in 27 of 28 eyes. Financial Disclosure(s) The authors have no proprietary or commercial interest in any of the materials discussed in this article.
Trans membrane potential of the rabbit blastocyst trophoblast.

Abstract The electrical potential difference across the wall of the free-lying rabbit blastocyst was measured directly. The blastocoele cavity of the five-day rabbit blastocyst maintains a steady negative potential (inside negative) which increases on day six and then decreases on day seven.
A method for open-loop control of dynamic motions of piezo-stack actuators

Abstract Precision control of three-dimensional dynamic motions of piezoelectric actuators is crucial for many applications of nanotechnology and precision engineering. In this paper, an open-loop technique to control the three-dimensional single-frequency motions of multi-axis piezo-stack actuators is presented. In this approach, the dynamic behavior of piezo-stack actuators is represented by the harmonic frequency response functions (hFRFs) that are obtained through an laser Doppler vibrometry (LDV)-based experimental characterization method. To obtain the desired motions at a given frequency, the actuator is excited at both the fundamental (motion) frequency and its harmonics, latter of which aiming to compensate for the unwanted higher-harmonic response components that arise due to non-linear dynamic behavior. The fundamental and the first-order compensatory excitation components are determined analytically using the inverse hFRFs. For the higher-order response terms, a compensation approach based on an iterative experimental technique is proposed. The effectiveness of the presented control method is demonstrated through a set of evaluation tests on two different three-axis piezo-stack actuators, where a set of motion-error metrics were defined and quantified. It was shown that the proposed method can be used to generate single-frequency motions with wide range of nanometric sizes with average errors less than 5% of the targeted motion amplitudes.
Optimal transitive procedures for comparing large numbers of parameters

Independent random samples are selected from each of a set of N independent populations, P1,…,Pn. Interest centers around comparing N (unknown) scalar parameters θ1,…,θN associated respectively with the N populations P1,…,Pn. Procedures are constructed for estimating the magnitude of each of the differences δt,j = θi − θj (1 ≤ i,j ≤ N) between pairs of populations. A loss function which adopts appropriate penalties for magnitude errors in estimation of differences is constructed. Magnitude estimators of differences are called transitive if they give rise to a transitive (i.e., consistent) relationship between pairwise differences of parameters. We show how to construct optimal effcient transitive magnitude–estimation procedures and demonstrate their usefulness through an example involving estimating the magnitude of the differences between disease incidence in paired towns for different pairs. Optimal transitive pairwise–comparison procedures are optimum (i.e., have the smallest posterior Bayes risks) in ...
Effects of the δ-opioid agonist, [D-Pen2, D-Pen5]-enkephalin, on fetal lamb EEG

Opiates are known to exert biphasic effects on level of arousal, with excitation at low doses and depression at higher doses. It has been suggested that this dual excitatory and depressant actions of opiates may be mediated by different receptor subtypes. We have previously shown that activation of mu 1-opioid receptors evoked EEG activation in the fetal lamb. The purpose of the present study was to quantitate the effects of DPDPE, a highly selective delta-opioid agonist, on fetal EEG. When infused ICV (4.6-154 nmol/h), DPDPE elicited dose-dependent activation of fetal EEG, with a reduction in power distribution in the delta (1-4 Hz) band, and an increase in the beta (15-32 Hz) band. This activation was reflected by an increase in the spectral edge frequency. This EEG activation was greatly attenuated at DPDPE doses greater than 154 nmol/h, resulting in a U-shaped dose-response curve. The EEG activation was completely blocked by naloxone or naltrindole (delta antagonist), but not by naloxonazine (mu 1 antagonist). These results indicate that the activation of delta-opioid receptors will evoke EEG activation in the fetal lamb.
Role of Estrogen and Progesterone in Facilitating LH Release in 4-Day Cyclic Rats

The role of estrogen and progesterone in facilitating the proestrous release of LH was examined in 4-day cyclic rats. Ovariectomy at 1000 hr diestrous day 2 eliminated the expected proestrous plasma LH surge. Administration of either 1.0, 10.0 or 50 μg estradiol benzoate (EB)/100 g body wt (1000 hr diestrous day 2) re-established gonadotropin release in these animals, with the intermediate dosage being most effective. However, peak plasma LH concentrations did not approach normal proestrous levels, and the rates of release were abnormally slow and more sustained. On the other hand, 10.0 μg 17β-estradiol (E2)/100 g body wt was more effective in eliciting the discharge of normal patterns and concentrations of pituitary LH. Progesterone (2 mg), administered at 0930 hr proestrous potentiated the plasma LH response in estrogentreated ovariectomized animals and also synchronized the timing of the gonadotropin surge. Estrogen replacement alone failed to produce a rise in plasma LH on proestrus in adrenalectomize...
What did the early American presidents really look like? Gilbert Stuart portraits as a "Rosetta Stone" to the pre-photography era.

The American painter Gilbert Stuart (1755–1828) painted many prominent individuals, including the first six presidents of the United States, and several of his later subjects were also photographed. We compared these photographs to Stuart's portraits of the same individuals and characterized the differences between Stuart's representations and his subjects' actual appearances. This allows us to create more photographic likenesses of other Stuart subjects, including individuals who lived before the invention of photography.
Methods and materials for solid-phase extraction

Abstract Solid-phase extraction (SPE) with porous solid particles goes back to the early 1970s. However, SPE has become more popular recently due to the availability of more efficient particles and the need to replace liquid extraction procedures that require the use of large quantities of organic solvents. Chemical introduction of acetyl or hydroxymethyl groups into polymeric resins improves the efficiency of SPE by providing better surface contact with aqueous samples. Lightly sulfonated resins display excellent hydrophilicity and improved extraction efficiencies of polar organic compounds over underivatized resins. It is shown that the degree of sulfonation has a major effect on retention of such compounds. Sulfonated resins can also be used for group separation of neutral and basic organic compounds. The advantages of performing SPE with resin-loaded membranes is discussed.
Citrate accumulation by a Golgi apparatus-rich fraction from lactating bovine mammary gland.

Abstract 1. 1. Golgi apparatus-rich fractions from lactating bovine mammary gland rapidly accumulated citrate from incubation medium. Characteristics of this process suggested that a citrate transport system may be present in Golgi apparatus membranes. 2. 2. Endoplasmic reticulum fractions accumulated citrate at nearly the same rate as Golgi apparatus; secretory vesicle fractions displayed lower ability to accumulate citrate. Intact epithelial cells (acini) from lactating mammary gland did not accumulate citrate. 3. 3. Citrate accumulation by Golgi apparatus was pH and temperature sensitive but was not altered by metabolic inhibitors. 4. 4. These observations suggest a role for Golgi apparatus in packaging intracellular citrate for secretion into milk.
X-rays of polygons

Various results are given concerning X-rays of polygons in ?2. It is shown that no finite set of X-rays determines every star-shaped polygon, partially answering a question of S. Skiena. For anyn, there are simple polygons which cannot be verified by any set ofn X-rays. Convex polygons are uniquely determined by X-rays at any two points. Finally, it is proved that given a convex polygon, certain sets of three X-rays will distinguish it from other Lebesgue measurable sets.
Epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and treatment options for skin and soft tissue infection caused by community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.

Purpose: This article reviews the evolving epidemiology of community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) and the appropriate outpatient management of CA-MRSA skin and soft tissue infection. Further, the paper will provide the basis upon which an individualized patient educational plan may be developed. Data Sources: To complete this review, a search of English language publications was conducted through Medline and CINAHL databases (1966–2006). Conclusions: The epidemiology of CA-MRSA is becoming increasingly complex. Research that addresses the impact of this organism in high-risk populations and within families is urgently needed. Implications for Practice: Nurse practitioners must remain informed of the epidemiology of common and emerging drug-resistant organisms in their patient populations.
A post-processing algorithm for compressed digital camera images

Digital cameras generally produce color images by placing color filters on monochrome sensors. The sensor produces one color at each location, and the other two color values for that location are interpolated. A lossy compression stage, using a coder such as JPEG, often follows. For a fixed interpolation algorithm, the color interpolation stage enforces a spatial dependence among pixels. We show how we may exploit this dependence to reduce the compression noise. This is achieved using the algorithm of projection on convex sets. For a fixed compression scheme we can also attempt to find the interpolation method that minimises the compression noise in the original data, and we show an approach to solving this problem.
Using critical sets to solve the maximum independent set problem

A method that utilizes the polynomially solvable critical independent set problem for solving the maximum independent set problem on graphs with a nonempty critical independent set is developed. The effectiveness of the proposed approach on large graphs with large independence number is demonstrated through extensive numerical experiments.
Theoretical bounds for multiwalled carbon nanotube growth

Abstract The role of the lip–lip interaction on the non-catalytic growth of multiwalled carbon nanotube is explored with classical molecular dynamics simulations. The simulations show that the lip–lip interaction actually provides a natural mechanism for the closing of the different nanotube shells, irrespective of the number of shells making up the nanotube. Based on an extensive annealing study, we estimate the mean time to closure and an upper bound length for nanotubes that can be formed, as a function of nanotube diameter and temperature. The extrapolated results are in good agreement with the existing experimental data.
Temporally integrated surface reconstruction

A solution is presented to the problem of obtaining and improving an estimate of the 3-D structure of a scene from a sequence of images. The algorithm, which combines single-frame reconstruction techniques and multiple-frame Kalman filtering, is tested on a variety of real motion image sequences. >
Online adaptive control of unstable aircraft wing flutter

The performance of an adaptive flutter suppression system (AFSS) was demonstrated on a flutter model in a wind tunnel. The AFSS used canonical variate analysis (CVA) to identify stable and unstable plants under feedback control. The control laws were developed online using linear quadratic control design and the CVA identified plant. The AFSS was tested for changing wind tunnel conditions, different external store configurations, and a sudden change from a stable plant to an unstable plant by the release of an external store. >
Effects of Monocarboxylate Transporter Inhibition on the Oral Toxicokinetics/Toxicodynamics of γ-Hydroxybutyrate and γ-Butyrolactone

Respiratory depression and death secondary to respiratory arrest have occurred after oral overdoses of γ-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) and its precursor γ-butyrolactone (GBL). GHB is a substrate for monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs), and increasing GHB renal clearance or decreasing GHB absorption via MCT inhibition represents a potential treatment strategy for GHB/GBL overdose. In these studies, GHB and GBL were administered in doses of 1.92, 5.77, and 14.4 mmol/kg orally with and without MCT inhibition to determine effects of this treatment strategy on the oral toxicokinetics and toxicodynamics of GHB and GBL. The competitive MCT inhibitor l-lactate was administered by intravenous infusion starting 1 hour after GHB and GBL administration. Oral administration of l-lactate and the MCT inhibitor luteolin was also evaluated. Respiratory depression was measured using plethysmography. Intravenous l-lactate, but not oral treatments, significantly increased GHB renal and/or oral clearances. At the low dose of GHB and GBL, i.v. l-lactate increased GHB renal clearance. Due to the increased contribution of renal clearance to total clearance at the moderate dose, increased renal clearance translated to an increase in oral clearance. At the highest GHB dose, oral clearance was increased without a significant change in renal clearance. The lack of effect of i.v. l-lactate on renal clearance after a high oral GHB dose suggests possible effects of i.v. l-lactate on MCT-mediated absorption. The resulting increases in oral clearance improved respiratory depression. Intravenous l-lactate also reduced mortality with the high GBL dose. These data indicate i.v. l-lactate represents a potential treatment strategy in oral overdose of GHB and GBL.
PSEUDONEGLECT IN A PATIENT WITH PARTIAL CALLOSAL DISCONNECTION

Each hemisphere may not only be responsible for processing stimuli from the contralateral sensory systems and for programming movements of the contralateral hand, but may also be important for mediating attention-intention within the contralateral hemispace. If each hemisphere mediates attention-intention within contralateral hemispace, both hemispheres must work in concert especially when an arm is crossed and used in opposite hemispace. If both hemispheres did not work together, the directional bias of each hemisphere would become manifest and induce the contralateral extremity to err toward its own hemispace, inducing pseudoneglect . To test this hypothesis, we examined a patient who had a partial callosal disconnection. In trying visually and somaesthetically to bisect lines with her left hand in right hemispace, the patient made systematic errors to the left; in bisecting lines in left hemispace with her right hand, she made systematic errors to the right. The patient also made less dramatic systematic errors even when a hand was used in its own hemispace, which suggests that each hemisphere mediates attention-intention within and towards the contralateral hemispace.
Damage to Composites from Electrochemical Processes

Abstract Damage to a carbon fiber vinyl ester matrix composite material has been evaluated with different test techniques. Surface examination after long-term galvanic coupling in seawater indicate...
Melatonin protects bovine cerebral endothelial cells from hyperoxia-induced DNA damage and death

Hyperoxia leads to excessive formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS cause damage to many cellular components, including DNA. Exposure of bovine cerebral endothelial cells to 95 or 100% oxygen resulted in an increase in DNA fragmentation, the appearance of DNA ladders, and cell death with morphological features suggestive of apoptosis. Melatonin, an antioxidant, reduced hyperoxia-induced DNA fragmentation and cell death in a dose-dependent manner. Results from the present study support the contention that ROS play a major role in DNA damage and apoptotic death. Melatonin is an effective agent in reducing ROS-mediated DNA fragmentation and death in bovine cerebral endothelial cells.
Nonlinear Deterioration Model for Bond Interfacial Fracture Energy of FRP-Concrete Joints in Moist Environments

This study proposed a bond mechanism based deterioration model of bond interfacial fracture energy for fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP)-concrete joints in moist environments. The bond interface region relative humidity (IRRH) in a moist environment was correlated to the bond fracture energy in this deterioration model. The IRRH-dependent interface separation tractions were derived in the frame of a cohesive zone model. Such an IRRH-dependent interface separation-traction law was simulated by a series of nonlinear interface elements attached to the bond interface to calculate the macroscopic load-displacement curves for the modified double cantilever beam (MDCB) specimens. Through moisture diffusion analysis, IRRH was determined as a function of the moisture exposure time for given specimen dimension and environmental RH. Using IRRH as the bridge, the time-dependent load-displacement curves of the MDCB specimens were obtained. The good agreement with the experimental data indicated that the model worked well. The approach developed in this study can be used to simulate and predict the durability of the bond between the FRP and concrete in moist environments.
A hermeneutical approach to external validation of simulation models

Validation is the most important tool in evaluating the effectiveness of a simulation model. An integral subset of validation is external validation. Through a historical philosophical discussion and examples, the authors provide a road map to navigate approaches to this topic. The authors also provide methodology suggestions by reconciling foundational philosophical approaches and incorporating a hermeneutical perspective to increase the usability, validity, and generalizability of simulation models.
The definition of EPCs and other bone marrow cells contributing to neoangiogenesis and tumor growth: Is there common ground for understanding the roles of numerous marrow-derived cells in the neoangiogenic process?

Interest in the regulation of blood vessel formation as a mechanism to permit unregulated tumor cell growth was a prescient hypothesis of Dr. Judah Folkman nearly 3 decades ago. Understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms that affect the recruitment, expansion, and turnover of the tumor microvasculature continues to evolve. While the fundamental paradigms for improving blood flow to growing, injured, diseased, or tumor infiltrated tissues are well known, the potential role of bone marrow derived circulating endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) to function as postnatal vasculogenic precursors for tumor microvasculature has become a controversial premise. We will briefly review some recently published high profile papers that appear to derive polar interpretations for the role of EPCs in the angiogenic switch and discuss possible reasons for the disparate views in work conducted in both mouse and man.
Rumors and factitious informational blends: The role of the web in speculative politics

The World Wide Web has changed the dynamics of information transmission and agenda-setting. Facts mingle with half-truths and untruths to create factitious informational blends (FIBs) that drive speculative politics. We specify an information environment that mirrors and contributes to a polarized political system and develop a methodology that measures the interaction of the two. We do so by examining the evolution of two comparable claims during the 2004 presidential campaign in three streams of data: (1) web pages, (2) Google searches, and (3) media coverage. We find that the web is not sufficient alone for spreading misinformation, but it leads the agenda for traditional media. We find no evidence for equality of influence in network actors.
Control of systems governed by partial differential equations: a historical perspective

A brief account of some historical developments in the area of deterministic control for systems governed by partial differential equations is provided. Particular emphasis is placed on problems with boundary and point controls which are physically attractive and mathematically challenging.
THE SECRETION OF INERT GAS INTO THE SWIM-BLADDER OF FISH

The composition of the gas mixture secreted into the swim-bladders of several species of fish has been determined in the mass spectrometer. The secreted gas differed greatly from the gas mixture breathed by the fish in the relative proportions of the chemically inert gases, argon, neon, helium, and nitrogen. Relative to nitrogen the proportion of the very soluble argon was increased and the proportions of the much less soluble neon and helium decreased. The composition of the secreted gas approaches the composition of the gas mixture dissolved in the tissue fluid. A theory of inert gas secretion is proposed. It is suggested that oxygen gas is actively secreted and evolved in the form of minute bubbles, that inert gases diffuse into these bubbles, and that the bubbles are passed into the swim-bladder carrying with them inert gases. Coupled to a preferential reabsorption of oxygen from the swim-bladder this mechanism can achieve high tensions of inert gas in the swim-bladder. The accumulation of nearly pure nitrogen in the swim-bladder of goldfish (Carassius auratus) is accomplished by the secretion of an oxygen-rich gas mixture followed by the reabsorption of oxygen.
Mental Simulation and Causal Attribution: When Simulating an Event Does Not Affect Fault Assignment

Abstract Wells and Gavanski′s (1989) hypothesis that the feature of an event that is most mutable is also perceived as causal was reexamined on the assumption that this is not the general case. Using Copi′s (1982) analysis of the different processes involved in eliminating or producing an outcome, we propose that people focus on different aspects of events when they simulate or make causal attributions. In two experiments participants read a scenario of a car accident traceable to a series of potential causes that involved a necessary and a sufficient cause. After mutating the event, fault was assigned to each of the causes. In Experiment 1, the necessary cause varied in terms of its controllability and morality. Compared with the sufficient cause, the necessary cause was mutated more, especially when it was immoral. However, the most fault was consistently assigned to the sufficient cause. In general, type of mutation and fault assignment were uncorrelated. In Experiment 2, both the necessary and the sufficient causes varied in terms of controllability. There was a strong tendency to mutate the necessary cause, particularly when it was controllable, yet the most fault was assigned to the sufficient cause. Again, correlations between the type of mutation and fault assignment were not significant. These results were interpreted as supporting an alternative view where the simulation heuristic and causal attribution are considered two separate and noninterchangeable processes.
Legionellosis Outbreak Associated With a Hotel Fountain

Background. In August 2012, the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) was notified of acute respiratory illness, including 1 fatality, among a group of meeting attendees who stayed at a Chicago hotel during July 30-August 3, 2012. Suspecting Legionnaires' disease (LD), CDPH advised the hotel to close their swimming pool, spa, and decorative lobby fountain and began an investigation. Methods. Case finding included notification of individuals potentially exposed during July 16-August 15, 2012. Individuals were interviewed using a standardized questionnaire. An environmental assessment was performed. Results. One hundred fourteen cases were identified: 11 confirmed LD, 29 suspect LD, and 74 Pontiac fever cases. Illness onsets occurred July 21-August 22, 2012. Median age was 48 years (range, 22-82 years), 64% were male, 59% sought medical care (15 hospitalizations), and 3 died. Relative risks for hotel exposures revealed that persons who spent time near the decorative fountain or bar, both located in the lobby were respectively 2.13 (95%, 1.64-2.77) and 1.25 (95% CI, 1.09-1.44) times more likely to become ill than those who did not. Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1 was isolated from samples collected from the fountain, spa, and women's locker room fixtures. Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1 environmental isolates and a clinical isolate had matching sequence-based types. Hotel maintenance records lacked a record of regular cleaning and disinfection of the fountain. Conclusions. Environmental testing identified Legionella in the hotel's potable water system. Epidemiologic and laboratory data indicated the decorative fountain as the source. Poor fountain maintenance likely created favorable conditions for Legionella overgrowth.
Benzylidene analogs of anabaseine display partial agonist and antagonist properties at the mouse 5-hydroxytryptamine(3A) receptor.

The nicotinic receptor drug candidate, 3-(2,4-dimethoxybenzylidene)-anabaseine (also known as GTS-21; DMXBA), its hydroxy metabolites, and some related analogs were evaluated with the two-electrode voltage-clamp technique in mouse 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)3A receptors expressed in Xenopusoocytes. Although DMXBA lacked partial agonist activity, its hydroxy-benzylidene metabolites and related analogs were partial agonists, displaying the following rank order of potency (EC50) and apparent efficacy: 5-HT, 0.9 ± 0.06 μM (100% efficacy) > 3-(2-hydroxy,4-methoxybenzylidene)-anabaseine (2-OH-MBA), 2.0 ± 0.3 μM (63% efficacy) > 3-(2,4-dihydroxybenzylidene)-anabaseine, 2.6 ± 0.3 μM (63% efficacy) > 3-(2-methoxy,4-hydroxybenzylidene)-anabaseine, 17.2 ± 1.0 μM (30% efficacy). To examine the influence of a benzylidene ring hydroxy substituent, the agonist actions of the three possible monohydroxy isomers were examined. The rank order of potency, based on EC50 determinations, and apparent efficacy was: 3-(2-hydroxybenzylidene)-anabaseine, 20.3 ± 2.6 μM (63% efficacy) > 3-(4-hydroxybenzylidene)-anabaseine, 32.3 ± 5.9 μM (14% efficacy) > 3-(3-hydroxybenzylidene)-anabaseine (3-OH-BA) (no agonist activity). Both DMXBA and 3-OH-BA antagonized 5-HT-mediated currents, with IC50 values of 15.7 ± 0.9 and 27.5 ± 4.7 μM, respectively. DMXBA demonstrated both competitive and noncompetitive forms of antagonism over the range of concentrations tested. These results suggest that a hydroxy substituent at the 2′ position of the benzene ring is necessary and sufficient for partial agonist activity; substitution at the 4′ position with a hydroxy or methoxy group further enhances agonist potency. Because 2-OH-MBA is a primary metabolite of DMXBA, it may contribute to the physiological, biochemical, and behavioral effects of the parent compound when administered in vivo.
Anterior capsulotomy outcomes: A comparison between two femtosecond laser cataract surgery platforms

Abstract To compare capsulotomy outcomes between two femtosecond laser platforms for cataract surgery. This retrospective case series included 205 eyes of 162 consecutive patients (75 male and 87 female) aged 68.32 ± 10.27 years (range: 38 to 92 years) who underwent femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) using either the LenSx (Alcon Laboratories, Inc., Fort Worth, TX) or the Catalys (Abbott Medical Optics, Abbott Park, IL) laser platform. Intraoperative assessment of the capsulotomy was performed and graded as one of the following four types: complete treatment pattern (type 1), microadhesions (type 2), incomplete treatment pattern (type 3), and complete pattern but not continuous (type 4). Ninety-seven eyes underwent FLACS using the LenSx platform and 108 eyes using the Catalys platform. Ninety-four capsulotomies in the LenSx group were graded as type 1 (96.91%), and three were graded as type 2 (3.09%); all capsulotomies in the Catalys group were graded as type 1 (100%). There was no statistically significant difference between the LenSx and Catalys groups (P > .05). No intraoperative complications (specifically, no posterior capsular extension or vitreous loss) were noticed in any of the eyes included in the study. The LenSx and Catalys laser platforms demonstrate similar capsulotomy outcomes. The microadhesions that were demonstrated in three cases in the LenSx group did not lead to intraoperative or postoperative complications. [J Refract Surg. 2015;31(12):821-825.].
Use of pragmatic community-based interventions to enhance recruitment and adherence in a randomized trial of Tai Chi for women with osteopenia: insights from a qualitative substudy.

OBJECTIVE This study aims to qualitatively evaluate the feasibility of using a pragmatic network of community-based Tai Chi schools to deliver 9-month exercise interventions to women with osteopenia and to explore the impact of this design feature on facilitators and barriers to trial recruitment and participant adherence during and after the trial. METHODS In a randomized trial comparing 9 months of Tai Chi plus usual care with usual care alone for postmenopausal women with moderately low bone mass, exit interviews were conducted with 43 participants randomized to the pragmatically delivered Tai Chi intervention. Transcripts were digitially recorded, transcribed, and imported into NVivo, a computer-assisted qualitative data analysis software. Qualitative content analysis was used to code the data. Patterns emerging from among the codes were further examined and clustered into themes. RESULTS Analyses revealed features of pragmatically delivered Tai Chi programs that both facilitated and impeded study participation and/or posttrial adherence. Direct facilitators included convenience of class locations and times, alternative learning modalities, quality of teaching, community and social support, and perceived health benefits. Barriers consisted primarily of time-related issues. A possible causal mechanism (self-efficacy) was also identified. CONCLUSIONS Factors related to the use of pragmatically delivered interventions are beneficial for fostering both study participation and posttrial adherence to the Tai Chi programs. This qualitative substudy is valuable for identifying these factors and a possible causal mechanism. These findings will assist in the design and conduct of future studies exploring the use of Tai Chi in fracture prevention and health-related quality of life in postmenopausal women.
HuD, a neuronal-specific RNA-binding protein, is a putative regulator of N- myc pre-mRNA processing/stability in malignant human neuroblasts

N-myc gene copy numbers and transcription rates are similar in N (neuroblastic, tumorigenic) and S (non-neuronal, non-tumorigenic) neuroblastoma cells with chromosomally integrated amplified N-myc genes. However, N cells show significantly higher N-myc mRNA levels than S cells. Therefore, post-transcriptional control of N-myc gene expression must differ between these cell types. Since no differences in N-myc mRNA half-life were found between N and S cells from two cell lines, steady-state levels of N-myc pre-mRNA processing intermediates were analysed. Results suggest that the differences in N-myc expression arise primarily at the nuclear post-transcriptional level. The neuronal-specific RNA-binding Hu proteins are present in cytoplasmic and nuclear fractions of N cells and one of them, HuD, binds specifically to both exonic and intronic N-myc RNA sequences. In sense and antisense HuD-transfected N cells, there are coordinate changes in HuD and N-myc expression levels. Thus, we propose that HuD plays a role in the nuclear processing/stability of N-myc pre-mRNA in N-type neuroblastoma cells.
Urban Layout and Its Significance

This book uses different types of urban layout maps for a rigorous and comprehensive exploration of cross-national similarities and differences in the geometry of downtown areas in cities of developed and developing countries. The aim of this chapter is to describe the role of geometry in representing spaces, to define the urban layout as a kind of geometric representation of space, and to describe the significance of the geometry of urban layouts.
HEAT TRANSFER AND FLUID MECHANICS OF THE THERMAL POLLUTION PROBLEM

The results of a coordinated, three-pronged study of the development of the three-dimensional mixing zone produced by a heated discharge in a waterway are presented. An approximate analysis and a detailed computer solution procedure are developed, and the resulting predictions are compared with laboratory experiments.