cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Longitudinal Open Incision and Two-Incision Techniques for Carpal Tunnel Release

Purpose This study analyzes the long-term postoperative symptoms and functional outcomes of patients who underwent either traditional open (single-incision) or 2-incision carpal tunnel release (CTR). Because 2-incision CTR preserves the superficial nerves and subcutaneous tissue between the thenar and hypothenar eminences, it may account for fewer postoperative symptoms and improved functional recovery. Methods A retrospective chart review identified patients who underwent either open or 2-incision CTR for isolated carpal tunnel syndrome between 2005 and 2008 by a single surgeon. Patients with a history of hand trauma or confounding comorbidities were excluded. We mailed a Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) Questionnaire and a Brigham and Women's Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BWCTQ) to all eligible participants. Data from the completed questionnaires were analyzed using independent t -tests and Pearson's correlation. Significance was set at p=.05. Results A total of 82 patients (106 hands; 27 men and 55 women; mean age, 60.5 y) were eligible to participate. Of these, 51 patients (63 hands; 20 men and 31 women; mean age, 61.1 y) responded (62% response rate). The mean duration of follow-up was 22 months (range, 12–37 mo; SD 7.3 mo). The 2-incision group mean BWCTQ Symptom Severity Scale score (1.13, SD 0.25) was significantly lower than the open group mean Symptom Severity Scale score (1.54, SD 0.70, p=.001). The 2-incision group mean BWCTQ Functional Status Scale score (1.24, SD 0.51) was significantly lower than the open group mean Functional Status Scale score (1.71, SD 0.76, p=.008). The 2-incision group mean DASH score (5.10, SD 12.03) was significantly lower than the open group mean DASH score (16.28, SD 19.98, p=.01). Conclusions Patients treated with 2-incision CTR reported statistically significantly less severe long-term postoperative symptoms and improved functional status compared with patients treated with traditional open CTR. Future prospective studies with objective measures are needed to further investigate the difference in outcomes found between these 2 CTR techniques. Type of study/level of evidence Therapeutic III.
Toward a Diversity Science: The Longest Journey Begins With the First Step

Vicky Plaut's wonderfully cogent, concise, yet comprehensive analysis of sociocultural perspective on diversity is an excellent first step toward a full-blown diversity science. I have been writing...
Laser-Activated Electron Transport in a Chlamydomonas Mutant

Following laser activation of electron transport in the pale green mutant of Chlamydomonas reinhardii , the following kinetics are observed: 1) A rapid absorption decrease at 421 mμ (half-time −6 sec) recovering with a half-time of ∼ 7 × 10 −3 sec. 2) Oxidation of cytochrome f at 554 mμ with a half-time of 1 × 10 −4 sec. 3) Oxidation of cytochrome of type b , at 432 and 564 mμ, with a half-time of ∼ 6 × 10 −3 sec, following a 2 × 10 −3 sec lag. The results are interpreted according to a linear electron transport sequence: system I trap ← cytochrome f ← ← cytochrome b with an additional molecule of cytochrome b in the cyclic photophosphorylation pathway. Experiments with uncouplers provide evidence for a site of photophosphorylation between cytochrome f and cytochrome b . Additional studies involve inhibitors of electron transport, the temperature dependence and quantum efficiency of cytochrome oxidation, and the effect of oxygen and pre-illumination on the laser-induced absorption changes.
Residual stresses in welded joints of high-strength steels

By using a “GLEEBLE-3800” complex, we perform the experimental investigations of the dynamics of changes in the yield strength of the metal of the heat-affected zone (HAZ) in low-carbon high-strength steels for various rates of cooling of the welded joints. The influence of the rate of energy input and thermal welding cycles on the formation of residual stresses in welded joints of steels with different chemical compositions and properties is determined both experimentally and numerically. The relationship between the residual stresses, modes of heat input, and the period of holding of the HAZ metal at temperatures above the point AC3 is established.
Treatment of transurethral resection syndrome with intravenous 29.2% saline

111 7 1957. Referral to Grant’s Atlas of Anatomy, 9th Edition, page 252, also supports this ‘hypothesis’. This knowledge over the past 40 years has done my practice no harm. Practical consideration of this will show that congestion of the prostatic ducts and not infection is the problem, and that many medications are mostly a waste of time, for obvious reasons. It will also avoid many unproductive, unnecessary and expensive investigations, and the despair of treating refractory ‘prostatitis’.
The Prion Diseases: Creutzfeldt-Jakob, Gerstmann-Sträussler-Scheinker, and Related Disorders

The prion diseases are an interesting group of neurodegenerative disorders for a variety of reasons. The most obvious is their property of transmissibility, but beyond that they constitute a fascinating example of the diversity of disease expression possible from a common etiologic factor. Thought of as "strains" in animals and phenotypes in humans, these varied expressions of prion disease are most likely due to subtle conformational changes in the pathogenic form of the prion protein. These strain-like characteristics are best exemplified in the genetic varieties of human prion disease in which specific mutations are associated with specific phenotypic profiles. This review attempts to highlight the clinical and pathologic features of the prion diseases with a particular focus on the genetic determinants that define the various familial forms and that modify sporadic and iatrogenic forms of the disease.
Is the lateral decubitus radiograph necessary for the management of a parapneumonic pleural effusion

A pproximately 50% of patients who are admitted to the hospital with community-acquired pneumonia will develop a pleural effusion.1,2 While most parapneumonic effusions will resolve without specific therapy, approximately 10% will become complicated or progress to empyema.3 Because delays in the drainage of these clinically significant effusions have been associated with increased morbidity and mortality,4 prompt detection and accurate characterization of a parapneumonic effusion are important. Guidelines5 based on a consensus conference have comprehensively summarized the literature regarding parapneumonic effusions and have made specific recommendations for their management. Although this document reflects the “state of the art,” as the authors noted, most studies of parapneumonic effusions have been observational, often with a limited numbers of patients. One of the recommendations in the guidelines was that all patients with a parapneumonic effusion should have a chest radiograph performed with a lateral decubitus view.5 This recommendation also was incorporated into the American Thoracic Society guidelines6 for the care of adults with communityacquired pneumonia. The rationale is that if the thickness of the effusion on the lateral decubitus view is 1 cm, the effusion is small enough so that no further intervention is needed.1 While there is good evidence that small effusions resolve without specific therapy,1 the suggestion that a lateral decubitus radiograph is required to determine the appropriate course of action with respect to a parapneumonic effusion appears to have been made without sufficient supporting data. The purpose of this article is to review the indications and usage of the lateral decubitus chest radiograph and demonstrate its limited value in the setting of parapneumonic pleural effusions. Radiographs of the chest made with the patient in the standard erect position usually will not reveal the presence of a pleural effusion 300 to 500 mL in size, as the fluid usually pools in the posterior costophrenic sulcus.7,8 The varying volumes reported may be due to differences in patient size, as a larger individual probably can “hide” a larger volume of fluid than can a smaller individual. The lateral decubitus view was first described by Merlo Gomez and Heidenreich,9 in 1924, as a technique to identify the presence of small pleural effusions. Its first English-language description was by Rigler,7 in 1931, who used this technique to confirm the presence of pleural effusions in a small series of patients despite the absence of a visible effusion using the standard erect views. Subsequently, other investigators demonstrated that the sensitivity of this view can be increased by placing a pillow under the patient’s pelvis, so that the thorax slopes downward away from the lung base.10 By injecting known amounts of fluid into cadavers, in 1973 Moskowitz et al8 demonstrated that effusions as small as 5 to 10 mL could be detected using the lateral decubitus view.
Gay Men with AIDS and Their Families of Origin:An Analysis of Social Support

This article reviews the literature on the relationships between gay men with AIDS and their families of origin to determine why the family is not a principal source of social support. Several reasons explain the absence of the family from the support network, including the family's lack of acceptance of homosexuality and the relationship with a male partner; the stigma associated with AIDS; the inability of family members to communicate openly about homosexuality and AIDS; the lack of competence among family members in dealing with HIV issues; and overprotective, infantilizing behavior by parents. A sibling, most often a sister, is the family member to whom the gay man with AIDS feels closest and from whom he is most likely to seek support. Implications for practice and research are discussed.
An alternative monetary policy target

For most of the period since the mid-1970s, the Federal Reserve has expressed its monetary policy intentions by announcing the target growth rates of three principal monetary aggregates: the simple-sum M1, M2 and M3. However, the sweeping changes and the deregulation in the financial industry have greatly affected the relevance of these traditional monetary aggregates. The unusual behaviour of the simple-sum monetary aggregates has forced the Federal Reserve to stop setting target range for M1. The measuring of monetary aggregates has become a controversial question. This paper constructs the new-benchmark Divisia monetary indexes which reflect ‘moneyness’ more accurately than the old Divisia indexes. I demonstrate that the historical trends of the Divisia monetary indexes are sensitive to the brenchmark rates chosen in constructing these indexes. In addition, I compare the forecasting performance of the new-benchmark Divisia monetary indexes with the simple-sum and the old Divisia monetary indexes in the...
Modeling Regional-Scale Wildland Fire Emissions with the Wildland Fire Emissions Information System*

AbstractAs carbon modeling tools become more comprehensive, spatial data are needed to improve quantitative maps of carbon emissions from fire. The Wildland Fire Emissions Information System (WFEIS) provides mapped estimates of carbon emissions from historical forest fires in the United States through a web browser. WFEIS improves access to data and provides a consistent approach to estimating emissions at landscape, regional, and continental scales. The system taps into data and tools developed by the U.S. Forest Service to describe fuels, fuel loadings, and fuel consumption and merges information from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and National Aeronautics and Space Administration on fire location and timing. Currently, WFEIS provides web access to Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) burned area for North America and U.S. fire-perimeter maps from the Monitoring Trends in Burn Severity products from the USGS, overlays them on 1-km fuel maps for the United States, and calculates fuel ...
Interaction of myogenic mechanisms and hypoxic dilation in rat middle cerebral arteries

The goal of this study was to determine how myogenic responses and vascular responses to reduced Po 2 interact to determine vascular smooth muscle (VSM) transmembrane potential and active tone in i...
PROBLEM SOLVING APPLIED TO LANGUAGE GENERATION

This research was supported at SRI International by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency under contract N00039--79--C--0118 with the Naval Electronic Systems Command. The views and conclusions contained in this document are those of the author and should not be interpreted as representative of the official policies either expressed or implied of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, or the U. S. Government. The author is grateful to Barbara Grosz, Gary Hendrix and Terry Winograd for comments on an earlier draft of this paper.
A protocol design of communication state transfer for distributed computing

This paper presents the design of a communication state transfer protocol to support process migration in a dynamic, distributed computing environment. In our design, processes in distributed computation communicate one another via message passing and are migration-enabled. Due to mobility, mechanisms to maintain reliability and correctness of data communication are needed. Following an event-based approach, Such mechanisms are derived to handle various communication situations when a process migrates. These mechanisms collectively preserve the semantics of the communication and support efficient communication state transfer.
Expression of GATA-4 in migrating gonadotropin-releasing neurons of the developing mouse

The hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons are important regulators of reproductive function. During development, these cells arise in the olfactory placode and migrate to the central nervous system, where they form a diffuse population of neurosecretory cells that mediate central nervous system control of reproduction. Little is known of the mechanisms regulating the differentiation of these cells. Studies of the transcriptional regulation of the GnRH gene have demonstrated the importance of the GATA family of zinc-finger transcription factors in gene expression. Although GATA factors are not highly expressed in mature GnRH-secreting neurons, we report that GATA-4 is highly expressed in migrating GnRH neurons in the developing mouse. We also report that a second DNA binding activity regulating GnRH gene expression at the site of GATA-factor action persists in mature hypothalamus and may also play a role in gene expression in the differentiated GnRH neuron.
Defending against denial-of-service attacks with puzzle auctions

Although client puzzles represent a promising approach to defend against certain classes of denial-of-service attacks, several questions stand in the way of their deployment in practice: e.g., how to set the puzzle difficulty in the presence of an adversary with unknown computing power, and how to integrate the approach with existing mechanisms. In this paper, we attempt to address these questions with a new puzzle mechanism called the puzzle auction. Our mechanism enables each client to "bid" for resources by tuning the difficulty of the puzzles it solves, and to adapt its bidding strategy in response to apparent attacks. We analyze the effectiveness of our auction mechanism and further demonstrate it using an implementation within the TCP protocol stack of the Linux kernel. Our implementation has several appealing properties. It effectively defends against SYN flooding attacks, is fully compatible with TCP, and even provides a degree of interoperability with clients with unmodified kernels: Even without a puzzle-solving kernel, a client still can connect to a puzzle auction server under attack (albeit less effectively than those with puzzle-solving kernels, and at the cost of additional server expense).
Problems in sexual functioning among male OEF/OIF veterans seeking treatment for posttraumatic stress.

Abstract Objective Few studies have examined sexual dysfunction among Operations Enduring/Iraqi Freedom (OEF/OIF) veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The present study investigated predictors of erectile dysfunction [ED] and self-reported sexual problems among 150 male combat veterans seeking outpatient treatment for PTSD within the Veterans Affairs healthcare system. Method Participants completed clinical interviews and several questionnaires including measures of sexual arousal and sexual desire. A medical records review was also conducted to document evidence of an ED diagnosis or associated medication use. Results An ED diagnosis was present for 12% of the sample, and 10% were taking associated medications. Sexual arousal problems were reported by sixty-two percent of partnered veterans. Sexual desire problems were endorsed by 63% of the total sample, and by 72% of partnered veterans. Age was the only significant predictor of ED diagnosis or medication use. Age, race, PTSD diagnosis (versus subclinical symptoms), depression, and social support predicted self-reported sexual arousal problems; while race, combat exposure, social support, and avoidance/numbing symptoms of PTSD predicted self-reported sexual desire problems. Conclusions Sexual problems are common among male OEF/OIF combat veterans seeking treatment for PTSD. Moreover, avoidance/numbing symptoms robustly predicted sexual desire problems. These findings highlight the importance of expanding assessment of sexual dysfunction and support the need for additional research in this area.
Modeling of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) transport in the artery—effects of hypertension

A robust four-layer model is presented to describe the LDL transport in the arterial wall coupled with the transport in the lumen. The endothelium, intima, internal elastic lamina (IEL) and media are all treated as macroscopically homogeneous porous media and the volume-averaged porous media equations are employed to model various layers, with Staverman filtration and osmotic reflection coefficients introduced to account for selective permeability of each porous layer to certain solutes. The physiological parameters within the various layers are obtained from literature. The set of governing equations for fluid flow and mass transport is descretized using a finite element scheme based on the Galerkin method of weighted residuals. Filtration velocity and LDL concentration profiles are developed at different locations for various clinical conditions. The results are consistent with previous numerical and experimental studies. Effects of hypertension and boundary conditions are discussed based upon the present model. Furthermore, the effects of pulsatile flows on LDL transport in the arterial wall are studied in some detail. Compared to previous transport models, the newly developed model is found to be a more robust tool for investigation of LDL accumulation within different arterial wall layers for various clinical conditions. This will be helpful in understanding the role of transmural transport processes in the initiation and development of atherosclerosis.
Transforming Classicism into Romanticism and Beyond in Goethe’s “The Roman Carnival”

This essay situates “The Roman Carnival,” a short narrative in Goethe’s fictional travelogue, Italian Journey, within the debate about Goethe’s relationship to classicism. I argue that this narrative evokes the structure of a Greek tragedy, but reverses retardation and catastrophe, thus creating an anti-climactic effect at the end. Therefore, this text simultaneously affirms as well as undermines its classical model. Introducing an elusive narrator, stock characters and scenes from the commedia dell’arte, Goethe continues to break classical rules and adds an undercurrent of Romantic irony to the process of signification. This unconventional textual weave of discursively juxtaposed traditions, namely narrative with drama, classical tragedy with popular comedy, and classical with Romantic elements, transforms set categories into a progressive meta-text. This meta-text transcends established formal and philosophical/theoretical paradigms by eliminating their hierarchical and historical order within the new open and multi-directional organization of the narrative.
Low NOx, high efficiency multistaged burner: Gaseous fuel results

A multistaged combustion burner design is being evaluated on a 0.6 MW package boiler simulator for in-furnace NOx control and high combustion efficiency. A low NOx precombustion chamber burner has been reduced in size by approximately a factor of two (from a 600 ms first-stage residence time to 250 ms), and, for additional NOx control, coupled with [1] air staging, resulting in a three-stage configuration, and [2] natural gas fuel staging, yielding up to four stoichiometric zones. Natural gas, doped with ammonia to yield a 5.8 percent fuel nitrogen content, was used to simulate a high nitrogen content fuel/waste mixture. In low NOx burner baseline tests, without advanced staging, a 315 ppm NO emission (measured dry, corrected to zero percent O2) was measured, compared with an emission of 1000 ppm measured using a conventional, unstaged burner. Both of the multistaged combustion modifications for additional NOx control reduced NO emissions by an additional 50 percent, to 160 ppm meeting the program goal. However, air staging application resulted in the entire front end of the boiler being fuel-rich, whereas fuel staging, or reburning, in the boiler required only a small fuel-rich flame core in the boiler. Further, no boiler penetrations were necessary with reburning modification, as staged fuel and air were injected through the boiler front wall; access for burnout air injection deep into the boiler was necessary for the air staging modification. Thus, the four-stage configuration, combining the precombustion chamber burner and reburning, appears to be the most promising approach for minimizing NO emissions and maximizing primary fuel/waste destruction.
The Antianginal Agent Ranolazine is a Potent Antiarrhythmic Agent that Reduces Ventricular Arrhythmias: Through a Mechanism Favoring Inhibition of Late Sodium Channel

SUMMARY Background: The antianginal agent ranolazine (R) has shown some promise as an antiarrhythmic agent but its mechanism of action is not known. Previously, we have shown that R suppresses ventricular arrhythmias at a concentration >10 μM that may affect multiple ion currents including IKr. Purpose: The present study was carried out to determine the effects of low dose (4 μM) of R that primarily inhibits late INa on ischemia/reperfusion induced ventricular arrhythmias. Methods: We subjected 20 anesthetized rats to 5 min of proximal left coronary artery occlusion followed by 5 min of reperfusion. Rats were randomized to vehicle control (C; n = 10) versus low dose R (n = 10; 3.33 mg/kg i.v. bolus plus 3.2 mg/kg/h R started 20 min prior to occlusion, which yields a concentration of 4 μM, within the known level that blocks late Na channels but well below the level that has effect on IKr or peak INa). Reperfusion-induced arrhythmias were quantitated by electrocardiographic monitoring. Results: In the C group 9/10 rats developed any arrhythmias versus 3/10 in the R group (P= 0.02); 6/10 developed ventricular tachycardia (VT) in the C group versus 0/10 in the R group (P= 0.01). The median number of episodes of VT were 1.5 in the C group versus 0 in the R group (P= 0.005). Sustained VT (>10 sec) occurred in 3/10 C and 0/10 in R (P= 0.21). The median duration of VT was 1.8 seconds in C versus 0 in R (P= 0.005). Ventricular fibrillation occurred in 1/10 in C and 0 in R. Ventricular premature beats (VPBs) occurred in 9/10 C and 3/10 R rats (P= 0.02). The median number of VPBs was 5.5 in the C group versus 0 in R group (P= 0.01). The ischemic risk zones were equivalent in the C and R groups (35 ± 3% and 32 ± 3% of the left ventricle, respectively). Conclusions: In conclusion, data show that the marked antiarrhythmic effect of R in the setting of acute ischemia/reperfusion occurs at low doses consistent with inhibition of late INa.
Inflammatory biomarkers are unrelated to endothelial-mediated vasodilation in physically active young men

Aron A, Hargens TA, Guill SG, Herbert WG. Inflammatory biomarkers are unrelated to endothelial-mediated vasodilation in physically active young men. J. Hum. Sport Exerc. Vol. 7, No. 2, pp. 581-588, 2012. Endothelial dysfunction has an important role in genesis of atherosclerosis and is depicted by a series of inflammatory and endothelial biomarkers. Shear stress arising from repeated episodes of increased blood flow with physical activity (PA) is a possible mechanism that improves vascular endothelial function. Our purpose was to examine whether inflammatory markers mediate the association between PA and endothelial function. Subjects were young, healthy men recruited according to recreational PA habits: highactive (n=21) vs. sedentary (n=17). Active subjects reported >45 min/day of moderate-vigorous physical activities, >4 days/week over 6 months, while sedentary subjects reported no recreational physical activity. Fasting serum samples were analyzed for C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Endothelial function was determined using flow-mediated dilation of the brachial artery induced by post ischemic reactive hyperemia. Hyperemia response was greater in the high-active than in sedentary men (30.2±8.2 vs. 24.3±5.2 mL/min/100mL; P<0.001). There were no differences between the groups with respect to CRP, TNF-α, or IL-6. Concentrations of these inflammatory biomarkers were unrelated to reactive hyperemia differences attributable to PA. Improved hyperemic response seen in young physically active subjects may be influenced by factors beyond the inflammatory factors, e.g., enhanced nitric oxide production. Physical activity was associated with an increased vascular function in young adults, although a diminished inflammatory state was no revealed. Additional research is needed to clarify the role of PA on cytokine indicators of inflammation and how this relates to endothelial function. Key
Heparan sulfate biosynthesis: a theoretical study of the initial sulfation step by N-deacetylase/N-sulfotransferase.

Abstract Heparan sulfate N -deacetylase/ N -sulfotransferase (NDST) catalyzes the deacetylation and sulfation of N -acetyl-d-glucosamine residues of heparan sulfate, a key step in its biosynthesis. Recent crystallographic and mutational studies have identified several potentially catalytic residues of the sulfotransferase domain of this enzyme (Kakuta et al., 1999, J. Biol. Chem. 274:10673–10676). We have used the x-ray crystal structure of heparan sulfate N -sulfotransferase with 3′-phosphoadenosine 5′-phosphate to build a solution model with cofactor 3′-phosphoadenosine 5′-phosphosulfate (PAPS) and a model heparan sulfate ligand bound, and subsequently performed a 2-ns dynamics solution simulation. The simulation results confirm the importance of residues Glu 642 , Lys 614 , and Lys 833 , with the possible involvement of Thr 617 and Thr 618 , in binding PAPS. Additionally, Lys 676 is found in close proximity to the reaction site in our solvated structure. This study illustrates for the first time the possible involvement of water in the catalysis. Three water molecules were found in the binding site, where they are coordinated to PAPS, heparan sulfate, and the catalytic residues.
Vertical Strategies and Market Structure: A Systematic Risk Analysis

This study examines the implications of vertical mergers on the risk characteristic of the merging firms. Specifically, the study focuses on three structural characteristics of the acquiring and acquired firm's market to explain the change in the systematic or environmental risk of the acquiring firm. These structural factors are the level of competition in the acquiring firm's industry, the level of competition in the acquired firm's industry, and the growth rate of the acquiring firm's industry. The findings suggest that vertical mergers are effective at reducing systematic risk particularly when the acquiring firm competes in a concentrated market. Further, this result appears to be stable across life cycle stages.
The geographic distribution of metals in urban soils: The case of Syracuse, NY

A paucity of literature currently exists pertaining to the high-resolution geographic distribution of metal contaminants across urban areas. Thousands of soil samples were collected across Syracuse, NY to secure empirical evidence about such geographic distributions. Metal measurements were made with XRF technology, with quality assessments based upon replicate samples as well as ICP technology summarized here. Both metal covariations and their spatial structure are described, followed by mapping of selected metal measurements based upon sample points, as well as census block group and census tract aggregates. A simple comparison is presented between certain of these empirical results and a selected non-urban landscape (a river floodplain). Finally, implications drawn from the empirical evidence presented include covariation assessments with selected census data that serve as surrogates for poverty.
Governing through crime as commonsense racism: Race, space, and death penalty `reform' in Delaware

This article explores momentous changes to Delaware's death penalty statute in 1991, reforms that made it one of the USA's premier killing states. Reflecting on media coverage of a high profile cri...
Effects of attraction strength on microchannel flow of colloid-polymer depletion mixtures

We investigated the effect of the strength of the interparticle attraction on the flow properties and microstructure of colloid–polymer depletion mixtures during microchannel flow. When the strength of the interparticle attraction is increased, the additional elasticity imparted by the formation of interparticle bonds does not modify the magnitude of the flow velocities downstream, but instead leads to changes in the flow profiles near the edges of the microchannel that reflect yielding at the weak bonds between clusters. As a result, increasing the strength of attraction increases the resistance of the suspension to densification and to shear-induced migration.
Path Planning in GPS-denied Environments via Collective Intelligence of Distributed Sensor Networks

ABSTRACTThis paper proposes a framework for reactive goal-directed navigation without global positioning facilities in unknown dynamic environments. A mobile sensor network is used for localising regions of interest for path planning of an autonomous mobile robot. The underlying theory is an extension of a generalised gossip algorithm that has been recently developed in a language-measure-theoretic setting. The algorithm has been used to propagate local decisions of target detection over a mobile sensor network and thus, it generates a belief map for the detected target over the network. In this setting, an autonomous mobile robot may communicate only with a few mobile sensing nodes in its own neighbourhood and localise itself relative to the communicating nodes with bounded uncertainties. The robot makes use of the knowledge based on the belief of the mobile sensors to generate a sequence of way-points, leading to a possible goal. The estimated way-points are used by a sampling-based motion planning algo...
A Divide-and-Conquer Paradigm for Hyperspectral Classification and Target Recognition

In this chapter, a multi-classifier, decision fusion framework is proposed for robust classification of high dimensional hyperspectral data in small-sample-size conditions. Such datasets present two key challenges. (1) The high dimensional feature spaces compromise the classifiers’ generalization ability in that the classifier tends to over-fit decision boundaries to the training data. This phenomenon is commonly known as the Hughes phenomenon in the pattern classification community. (2) The small-sample-size of the training data results in ill-conditioned estimates of its statistics. Most classifiers rely on accurate estimation of these statistics for modeling training data and labeling test data, and hence ill-conditioned statistical estimates result in poorer classification performance. Conventional approaches, such as Stepwise Linear Discriminant Analysis (S-LDA) are sub-optimal, in that they utilize a small subset of the rich spectral information provided by hyperspectral data for classification. In contrast, the approach proposed in this chapter utilizes the entire high dimensional feature space for classification by identifying a suitable partition of this space, employing a bank-of-classifiers to perform “local” classification over this partition, and then merging these local decisions using an appropriate decision fusion mechanism. Adaptive classifier weight assignment and nonlinear pre-processing (in kernel induced spaces) are also proposed within this framework to improve its robustness over a wide range of fidelity conditions. This chapter demonstrates the efficacy of the proposed algorithms to classify remotely sensed hyperspectral data, since these applications naturally result in very high dimensional feature spaces and often do not have sufficiently large training datasets to support the dimensionality of the feature space. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed framework results in significant improvements in classification accuracies over conventional approaches.
Unintentional injuries treated in hospital emergency departments among persons aged 65 years and older, United States, 2006-2011.

Abstract Introduction With the aging of the United States population, unintentional injuries among older adults, and especially falls-related injuries, are an increasing public health concern. Methods We analyzed emergency department (ED) data from the Nationwide Emergency Department Sample, 2006–2011. We examined unintentional injury trends by 5-year age groups, sex, mechanism, body region, discharge disposition, and primary payer. For 2011, we estimated the medical costs of unintentional injury and the distribution of primary payers, plus rates by injury mechanisms and body regions injured by 5-year age groups. Results From 2006 to 2011, the age-adjusted annual rate of unintentional injury-related ED visits among persons aged ≥ 65 years increased significantly from 7987 to 8163, per 100,000 population. In 2011, 65% of injuries were due to falls. Rates for fall-related injury ED visits increased with age and the highest rate was among those aged ≥ 100. Each year, about 85% of unintentional injury-related ED visits in this population were expected to be paid by Medicare. In 2011, the estimated lifetime medical cost of unintentional injury-related ED visits among those aged ≥ 65 years was $40 billion. Conclusion Increasing rates of ED-treated unintentional injuries, driven mainly by falls among older adults, will challenge our health care system and increase the economic burden on our society. Prevention efforts to reduce falls and resulting injuries among adults aged ≥ 65 years have the potential to increase well-being and reduce health care spending, especially the costs covered by Medicare. Practical applications With the aging of the U.S. population, unintentional injuries, and especially fall-related injuries, will present a growing challenge to our health care system as well as an increasing economic burden. To counteract this trend, we must implement effective public health strategies, such as increasing knowledge about fall risk factors and broadly disseminating evidence-based injury and fall prevention programs in both clinical and community settings.
NO2 Oxidation Reactivity and Burning Mode of Diesel Particulates

The NO2 oxidation kinetics and burning mode for diesel particulate from light-duty and medium-duty engines fueled with either ultra low sulfur diesel or soy methyl ester biodiesel blends have been investigated and are shown to be significantly different from oxidation by O2. Oxidation kinetics were measured using a flow-through packed bed microreactor for temperature programmed reactions and isothermal differential pulsed oxidation reactions. The burning mode was evaluated using the same reactor system for flowing BET specific surface area measurements and HR-TEM with fringe analysis to evaluate the nanostructure of the nascent and partially oxidized particulates. The low activation energy measured, specific surface area progression with extent of oxidation, HR-TEM images and difference plots of fringe length and tortuosity paint a consistent picture of higher reactivity for NO2, which reacts indiscriminately immediately upon contact with the surface, leading to the Zone I or shrinking core type oxidation. In comparison, O2 oxidation is shown to have relatively lower reactivity, preferentially attacking highly curved lamella, which are more reactive due to bond strain, and short lamella, which have a higher proportion of more reactive edge sites. This preferential oxidation leads to Zone II type oxidation, where solid phase diffusion of oxygen via pores contributes significantly to slowing the overall oxidation rate, by comparison.
"We can't provide season tickets to the opera": Staff perceptions of providing preference based person centered care.

ABSTRACTKnowledge of a nursing home resident’s everyday living preferences provides the foundation for ongoing individualized care planning.Objective: The purpose of this study is to identify nursing home (NH) staff perceptions of facilitators and barriers to learning about and meeting residents’ preferences and reasons why staff feel residents change their minds about preferences.Methods: Focus group sessions and interviews were conducted with 36 NH staff members working in a facility that has been actively assessing resident preferences for five years.Results: Thematic codes classifying facilitators, barriers, and dependencies were identified. Staff shared ways they are able to help meet residents’ preferences as well as barriers to fulfilling resident preferences through their own behaviors, facility characteristics, the social environment, and resident characteristics. In addition, staff believe that residents change their minds about important preferences ‘depending on’ several factors including; glo...
The Effect of an Optical Aid on the Visual Fatigue and on the Performance of VDT Operators

The main objective of this study was to investigate a method of reducing the amount of visual fatigue which is often associated with VDT usage. Specifically studied was the effect of the provision of refractive power on various indicants of visual fatigue (distant focus time, eye-blink rates, and visual acuity), visual-search performance on a computer, and evaluative responses on a questionnaire. Refractive power was provided with the use of nonprescription reading glass. Two different character sizes (4.8 and 5.8 mm) and two different viewing distances (508 and 666 mm) were also studied to determine if an increase in the visual angle of characters would result in significant improvements.After analyzing the data with a repeated measures analysis of variance, it was determined that the use of the reading glasses resulted in significantly (p < 0.05) lower: distant focus times and left-eye acuity measurements. There were no significant benefits on other measurements taken. The glasses resulted in fewer visu...
Developing a Capability to Elicit and Structure Psychosocial Decision Information within Computational Models.

Abstract There is a recognized need to develop computational models that can represent and simulate the decision making process of various groups across socio-cultural domains [5]. Yet, developing such models can be greatly hampered by the need to acquire and represent information pertaining to the psychological and social aspects of decision-making within these groups. Currently, there are numerous techniques and tools to help facilitate the elicitation and structuring of knowledge within expert-type systems—particularly those that focus on technical processes such as mechanical troubleshooting [3]. However, few techniques and tools have been developed for models that are intended to represent and assess the decision making of groups within different societies—particularly including cultural elements within these societies. This paper seeks to help address this challenge by discussing an approach to eliciting and structuring cross-cultural psychosocial and behavioral-economic elements within a theory-based assessment model. This work was developed to address the needs of Sandia National Laboratories’ Behavioral Influence Assessment modeling capability, which assesses decision-making within societies. The main component of the knowledge engineering effort is what we call the “knowledge structure.” The knowledge structure acts as scaffolding for the organization of psychosocial processes underlying decision-making, as well as the actual content of that knowledge with respect to a modeled society.
Effects of a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet on degradation of sucrase-isomaltase in rat jejunoileum.

During the degradation of intestinal sucrase-isomaltase by pancreatic proteinases, degradation of sucrase-active site precedes that of the isomaltase-active site in rats. In the present paper, we demonstrate that the extent of degradation of sucrase-isomaltase is altered by dietary manipulation in vivo. Adult rats were starved for 24 h and received either a standard diet (20 cal% protein, 55% carbohydrate) or an isocaloric high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet (70 cal% protein, 5% carbohydrate). Animals were killed 15 h after the refeeding. In rats fed a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet, luminal trypsin activity was three times higher than controls, and sucrase activity in proximal ileum was significantly lower (P less than 0.001) than controls, whereas isomaltase activity was similar in both groups. In proximal jejunum, luminal trypsin activity was remarkably lower (P less than 0.01) than in proximal ileum in both groups; sucrase and isomaltase activity was similar in both groups. Crossed immunoelectrophoresis demonstrated that a degradation product of sucrase-isomaltase, i.e., isomaltase monomer, was present in a larger amount in rats fed a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet. In rats with bypassed pancreatic ducts, the amount of this degradation product was decreased and effect of a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet was abolished. Experiments with a sequential isolation of epithelial cells of proximal ileum revealed that sucrase activity was decreased along the entire height of the villus in animals fed a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Simultaneous in vitro fertilization and gamete intrafallopian tranfer (GIFT)

During a 6-month period, a combination of gamete intrafallopian transfer (GIFT) and in vitro fertilization (IVF) was offered to all couples beginning an IVF treatment cycle in whom the wife had anatomically normal fallopian tubes. It was recommended to these couples that sufficient oocytes be reserved for insemination in vitro to determine whether the husband's spermatozoa could fertilize the wife's oocytes. During this interval, 16 couples underwent the combined IVF-GIFT procedure. All of the IVF-GIFT couples had at least two oocytes inseminated in vitro and at least two oocytes for GIFT. Of the 16 IVF-GIFT couples, only 1 (6.25%) achieved a clinical pregnancy. More important, 50% (8/16) of the IVF-GIFT couples had no oocytes fertilized in vitro. With the information concerning lack of fertilization in vitro, appropriate recommendations concerning future fertility management can be made. If the same couples had undergone the GIFT procedure alone, without additional oocytes fertilized in vitro, this information would not have been obtained.
Use and Abuse of the Electroencephalogram

The utility of the electroencephalogram (EEG) to evaluate clinical situations in epilepsy is reviewed from the Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, King’s College Hospital, London, UK.
The relationship between non-verbal systems of number and counting development: a neural signatures approach

Two non-verbal cognitive systems, an approximate number system (ANS) for extracting the numerosity of a set and a parallel individuation (PI) system for distinguishing between individual items, are hypothesized to be foundational to symbolic number and mathematics abilities. However, the exact role of each remains unclear and highly debated. Here we used an individual differences approach to test for a relationship between the spontaneously evoked brain signatures (using event-related potentials) of PI and the ANS and initial development of symbolic number concepts in preschool children as displayed by counting. We observed that individual differences in the neural signatures of the PI system, but not the ANS, explained a unique portion of variance in counting proficiency after extensively controlling for general cognitive factors. These results suggest that differences in early attentional processing of objects between children are related to higher-level symbolic number concept development.
Roles of estrogen receptor-alpha in mediating life span: the hypothalamic deregulation hypothesis

In several species caloric restriction (CR) extends life span. In this paper we integrate data from studies on CR and other sources to articulate the hypothalamic deregulation hypothesis by which estrogen receptor-alpha (ER-α) signaling in the hypothalamus and limbic system affects life span under the stress of CR in mammals. ER-α is one of two principal estrogen-binding receptors differentially expressed in the amygdala, hippocampus, and several key hypothalamic nuclei: the arcuate nucleus (ARN), preoptic area (POA), ventromedial nucleus (VMN), antero ventral periventricular nucleus (AVPV), paraventricular nucleus (PVN), supraoptic nucleus (SON), and suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). Estradiol signaling via ER-α is essential in basal level functioning of reproductive cycle, sexually receptive behaviors, physiological stress responses, as well as sleep cycle, and other nonsexual behaviors. When an organism is placed under long-term CR, which introduces an external stress to this ER-α signaling, the reduction of ER-α expression is attenuated over time in the hypothalamus. This review paper seeks to characterize the downstream effects of ER-α in the hypothalamus and limbic system that affect normal endocrine functioning.