cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Semi-Qualitative Probabilistic Networks in Computer Vision Problems

This paper explores the application of semi-qualitative probabilistic networks (SQPNs) that combine numeric and qualitative information to computer vision problems. Our version of SQPN allows qualitative influences and imprecise probability measures using intervals. We describe an Imprecise Dirichlet model for parameter learning and an iterative algorithm for evaluating posterior probabilities, maximum a posteriori and most probable explanations. Experiments on facial expression recognition and image segmentation problems are performed using real data.
Thermodynamics of coal2o4–coga2o4 solid solutions

CoAl{sub 2}O{sub 4}, CoGa{sub 2}O{sub 4}, and their solid solution Co(Ga{sub z}Al{sub 1-z}){sub 2}O{sub 4} have been studied using high temperature oxide melt solution calorimetry in molten 2PbO.B{sub 2}O{sub 3} at 973 K. There is an approximately linear correlation between lattice parameters, enthalpy of formation from oxides, and the Ga content. The experimental enthalpy of mixing is zero within experimental error. The cation distribution parameters are calculated using the O'Neill and Navrotsky thermodynamic model. The enthalpies of mixing calculated from these parameters are small and consistent with the calorimetric data. The entropies of mixing are calculated from site occupancies and compared to those for a random mixture of Ga and Al ions on octahedral site with all Co tetrahedral and for a completely random mixture of all cations on both sites. Despite a zero heat of mixing, the solid solution is not ideal in that activities do not obey Raoult's Law because of the more complex entropy of mixing. - Graphical abstract: Measured enthalpies of mixing of CoAl{sub 2}O{sub 4}-CoGa{sub 2}O{sub 4} solid solutions are close to zero but entropies of mixing reflect the complex cation distribution, so the system is not an ideal solution.
Music to My Brain: Could Music Training Be Used to Improve Adolescent Brain Development?

hat must we do to improve and maintain the health of the world’s “W one billion adolescents?” This is the opening sentence in the World Health Organization’s 2014 summary report on adolescent health around the world. It summarizes current problems and opportunities that societies around the globe face in the promotion of adolescent health. The report starts with a picture that shows 2 adolescents in a mountainous countryside playing string instruments. That playing an instrument promotes health has been suggested in different studies. For instance, musical activity may help promote healthy cognitive function throughout the lifespan, and it has been suggested that improved brain plasticity could underlie improved brain function. One could take this a step further and ask whether playing an instrument could be a treatment for altered brain development or plasticity associated with psychiatric disorders. In this issue of the Journal, Hudziak et al. present brain cortical thickness data from a large multicenter study that suggest that playing a musical instrument is associated with improved developmental thinning of the brain’s cortex during adolescence compared with youth who do not play an instrument. The data are from the National Institutes of Health magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) study of normal brain development, a longitudinal study that used different brain imaging techniques to map pediatric brain development in 2 age groups, from newborn to 4 years old and from 4 to 18 years old. Motivation for this study was the investigators’ longstanding research on attentiondeficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). They had found that cortical thickness maturation in frontoparietal areas, regions that are implicated in attentional control and behavioral inhibition, is
Dendrimer–Fullerenol Soft-Condensed Nanoassembly

Nanoscale assembly is an area of research that has vast implications for molecular design, sensing, nanofabrication, supramolecular chemistry, catalysis, and environmental remediation. Here we show that poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) dendrimers of both generations 1 (G1) and 4 (G4) can host 1 fullerenol per 2 dendrimer primary amines as evidenced by isothermal titration calorimetry, dynamic light scattering, and spectrofluorometry. Thermodynamically, the interactions were similarly spontaneous between both generations of dendrimers and fullerenols, however, G4 formed stronger complexes with fullerenols resulting from their higher surface charge density and more internal voids, as demonstrated by spectrofluorometry. In addition to hydrogen bonding that existed between the dendrimer primary amines and the fullerenol oxygens, hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions also contributed to complex formation and dynamics. Such a hybrid of soft and condensed nanoassembly may have implications for environmental remedia...
Copper oxide nanoparticles induce oxidative stress and cytotoxicity in airway epithelial cells

Metal oxide nanoparticles are often used as industrial catalysts and elevated levels of these particles have been clearly demonstrated at sites surrounding factories. To date, limited toxicity data on metal oxide nanoparticles are available. To understand the impact of these airborne pollutants on the respiratory system, airway epithelial (HEp-2) cells were exposed to increasing doses of silicon oxide (SiO(2)), ferric oxide (Fe(2)O(3)) and copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles, the leading metal oxides found in ambient air surrounding factories. CuO induced the greatest amount of cytotoxicity in a dose-dependent manner; while even high doses (400 microg/cm(2)) of SiO(2) and Fe(2)O(3) were non-toxic to HEp-2 cells. Although all metal oxide nanoparticles were able to generate ROS in HEp-2 cells, CuO was better able to overwhelm antioxidant defenses (e.g. catalase and glutathione reductase). A significant increase in the level of 8-isoprostanes and in the ratio of GSSG to total glutathione in cells exposed to CuO suggested that ROS generated by CuO induced oxidative stress in HEp-2 cells. Co-treatment of cells with CuO and the antioxidant resveratrol increased cell viability suggesting that oxidative stress may be the cause of the cytotoxic effect of CuO. These studies demonstrated that there is a high degree of variability in the cytotoxic effects of metal oxides, that this variability is not due to the solubility of the transition metal, and that this variability appears to involve sustained oxidative stress possibly due to redox cycling.
The Effect of Molecular Weight, Surface Roughness, and Sliding Speed on the Wear of Rigid Polyvinyl Chloride

The wear of rigid polyvinyl chloride (PVC), was measured in a pin-on-disk apparatus as a function of PVC average number molecular weight (70 000 and 40 000), steel counterface roughness (0.15 to 1.27 μm Ra), and sliding speed (0.1 to 1.4 m/s). The lower molecular weight PVC had the higher wear at all test conditions except 1.4 m/s speed and 1.27 μm Ra. At this condition, the calculated interface temperature exceeded the glass transition temperature of 74°C for PVC. The wear rate increased for increases in both surface roughness and sliding speed. These results were explained in terms of the increased penetration of the steel asperities into the PVC necessitated by changes in these two factors. Presented at the 36th Annual Meeting in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, May 11–14, 1981
The uses and the pleasures of horror

J. P. Telotte. Dreams of Darkness: Fantasy and the Films of Val Lewton. Urbana and Chicago: University of Illinois Press, 1985. 223 pp. $18.95 cloth. Barry Keith Grant, ed. Planks of Reason: Essays on the Horror Film. Metuchen, New Jersey: Scarecrow Press, 1984. 428 pp.
A non-pungent resiniferatoxin analogue, phorbol 12-phenylacetate 13 acetate 20-homovanillate, reveals vanilloid receptor subtypes on rat trigeminal ganglion neurons

Abstract Capsaicin, the vanilloid responsible for the pungent taste of hot peppers, binds to receptors found primarily in polymodal nociceptors. Capsaicin initially stimulates polymodal nociceptors and subsequently inhibits them from responding to a variety of stimuli. This property makes it useful clinically as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory compound. There is mounting, albeit indirect, evidence for the existence of several subtypes of vanilloid receptors. One such piece of evidence comes from studying analogues of capsaicin, such as phorbol 12-phenylacetate 13 acetate 20-homovanillate. This compound binds to (capsaicin) vanilloid receptors on sensory neurons, but unlike capsaicin it is non-pungent and does not produce hypothermia. To determine how sensory neurons respond to phorbol 12-phenylacetate 13 acetate 20-homovanillate, and to compare these responses with those evoked by capsaicin, whole-cell patch-clamp measurements were performed on cultured rat trigeminal ganglion neurons. It was found that 63% of the neurons held at −60 mV were activated by 3 μM, phorbol 12-phenylacetate 13 acetate 20-homovanillate, and 87% of these were also activated by 1 μM capsaicin. In a given neuron, phorbol 12-phenylacetate 13 acetate 20-homovanillate, like capsaicin, could activate kinetically distinct inward currents. The current–voltage curves characterizing phorbol 12-phenylacetate 13 acetate 20-homovanillate responses were asymmetric and had reversal potentials at −5.8±6.0 mV and 10.4±4 mV. The averaged dose–response curves for phorbol 12-phenylacetate 13 acetate 20-homovanillate were fit to the Hill equation and had binding constants (K1/2s) of 2.73 μM and 0.96 μM and Hill coefficients (ns) of ≈1 for a rapidly- and slowly-activating current, respectively. These parameters are consistent with those obtained from binding experiments and calcium-influx experiments on sensory nerves. Repeated applications of phorbol 12-phenylacetate 13 acetate 20-homovanillate every 3 min caused a complete reduction in the rapidly-activating currents leaving only a reduced slowly-activating current. This provides strong evidence for the independence of these currents and the existence of subtypes of vanilloid receptors. Additional evidence for the existence of receptor subtypes is that 10 μM capsazepine, a specific and competitive inhibitor of capsaicin-evoked responses, did not inhibit the phorbol 12-phenylacetate 13 acetate 20-homovanillate-induced currents in some neurons and partially inhibited them in other neurons. Thus, there are capsazepine-sensitive and capsazepine-insensitive subtypes of vanilloid receptors. In summary, we have obtained electrophysiological and pharmacological evidence for distinct subtypes of vanilloid receptors.
DNA class organization on maize Adh1 yeast artificial chromosomes.

Abstract The organization of higher plant genomes is poorly understood. These genomes are typified by their large size and extensive repetitive DNA component. To further our understanding of the composition and arrangement of genomic DNA sequences, we have performed a detailed analysis of a contiguous interval of 280 kb surrounding the Adh1 locus of maize. A series of overlapping lambda subclones was isolated, and individual fragments were characterized with respect to their genomic copy number. Cross-hybridization analyses were used to define a minimum of 37 repetitive DNA classes within the 280-kb interval. Hybridizations with highly repetitive DNAs cloned from other regions of the maize genome suggested that > 50% of all highly repetitive elements in maize are represented on this single yeast artificial chromosome. These repeated sequences were found in an organizational pattern not previously observed; individual repetitive elements are interspersed with one another in an apparently random fashion and are spatially separate from single copy number sequences. Extensive tandem arrays were not found. Sequences from one end of the 280-kb interval were used to isolate overlapping yeast artificial chromosome clones, representing the first step in a chromosome walk.
Effects of poverty and race on outcomes in acute myeloid leukemia.

Objectives:To determine how patient race, ethnicity, and degree of poverty affect treatment and survival for acute myeloid leukemia (AML).Methods:A linked database of the Florida cancer registry and State inpatient and outpatient hospital data for 1998–2002 was queried. Effects of demographic and tr
The Applicability of Bass's Model of Transformational, Transactional, and Laissez-Faire Leadership in the Hospital Administrative Environment

The purpose of this study is to evaluate empirically in the hospital administrative environment the relationship of leadership behaviors to subordinate manager's perceived outcomes, through examination of B. M. Bass's (1985) model of transformational, transactional, and laissez-faire leadership. The author measured leadership orientation and outcome factors through subordinate managers' ratings of hospital CEOs using a questionnaire, which asked: Is there a relationship between the leadership styles of hospital CEOs and subordinate managers' self-reported willingness to exert extra effort, perception of leader effectiveness and satisfaction with their leader? Findings revealed that the relationship between transformational leadership and the outcome factors were stronger and more positive than were the transactional and laissez-faire styles. These findings are consistent with the hierarchal patterns reported and support the universality of the model.
Efficacy and side effect profile of varying doses of intrathecal fentanyl added to bupivacaine for labor analgesia

The purpose of this randomized, double blinded and controlled study was to determine the optimal dose of intrathecal fentanyl when combined with bupivacaine 2.5 mg for initiation of labor analgesia. Parous parturients with cervical dilation between 3 and 5 cm were randomized to receive intrathecal fentanyl 0 (control), 5, 10, 15, 20 or 25 micrograms, combined with bupivacaine 2.5 mg, followed by a lidocaine/epinephrine epidural test dose. Visual analog pain scores (VAPS) and the presence of side effects were determined every 15 min until the parturient requested additional analgesia. Fetal heart rate (FHR) tracings were compared between groups. All parturients who received fentanyl >/= 15 micrograms had VAPS 15 min, but this was not true for all parturients with fentanyl doses < 15 micrograms. Duration of analgesia was shorter for fentanyl groups 0, 5 and 10 micrograms, compared to groups 15, 20 and 25 micrograms, but there was no difference between the 15, 20 and 25 micrograms groups. There was no difference in the incidence of nausea and vomiting, or in FHR tracing changes. The incidence of pruritus was greater in all fentanyl groups compared to control. These data suggest that, when combined with intrathecal bupivacaine 2.5 mg, fentanyl 15 micrograms provides satisfactory analgesia to all parturients. Higher fentanyl doses produced no additional benefit in duration or quality of analgesia.
The Stokes resistance of an arbitrary particle—IV Arbitrary fields of flow

Abstract A phenomenological scheme is formulated for calculating the quasistatic Stokes force and torque on a rigid particle of any shape immersed in a flow field which tends to an arbitrary Stokes flow at infinity. This generalizes a previous result (Part III) limited to a uniform shear flow at infinity. The phenomenological resistance coefficients are shown to be constant polyadics which are intrinsic properties of the particle, dependent only on its external shape. In particular they are independent of the density, viscosity, and state of motion of the fluid. It is demonstrated that these coefficients can be computed solely from a knowledge of the solutions of Stokes equations for translational and rotational motions of the particle, along any three non-coplanar axes, in a fluid at rest at infinity. Explicit formulae for the polyadic coefficients are given for ellipsoidal and slightly deformed spherical particles.
Method for controlling characteristics of a semiconductor integrated by circuit X-ray bombardment

The characteristics of integrated circuits, such as the gate threshold voltage (Vtx) of insulated gate field effect transistors, or the current amplification factor (h FE ) of bipolar transistors are altered by the irradiation of the X-ray with predetermined amount. The X-ray irradiation is used to make the integrated circuits with very accurate characteristics with high yield of production. It is also used to make variety of sample information by changing the characteristics of the same device one after another.
Experimental evaluation of dynamic data allocation strategies in a distributed database with changing workloads

Traditionally, allocation of data in distributed database management systems has been determined by off-line analysis and optimization. This technique works well for static database access patterns, but is often inadequate for frequently changing workloads. In this paper we address how to dynamically reallocate data for partionable distributed databases with changing access patterns. Rather than complicated and expensive optimization algorithms, a simple heuristic is presented and shown, via an implementation study, to improve system throughput by 3 based system. Based on artificial wide area network delays, we show that dynamic reallocation can improve system throughput by a factor of two and a half for wide area networks. We also show that individual site load must be taken into consideration when reallocating data, and provide a simple policy that incorporates load in the reallocation decision.
The protective effects of the melanocortin receptor (MCR) agonist, melanotan-II (MTII), against binge-like ethanol drinking are facilitated by deletion of the MC3 receptor in mice.

Abstract Recent data have implicated the melanocortin (MC) system in modulating voluntary ethanol consumption. Administration of melanotan-II (MTII), a nonselective melanocortin receptor (MCR) agonist, reduces voluntary ethanol consumption in C57BL/6J mice. Previous studies have demonstrated that central infusion of MTII effectively reduced voluntary ethanol drinking in mutant mice lacking normal expression of MC3R (MC3R −/− mice) but failed to alter ethanol drinking in mice lacking expression of MC4R, demonstrating that central MTII administration reduces voluntary ethanol drinking by signaling through the MC4R. However, evidence shows that the neurocircuitry recruited during excessive binge-like ethanol drinking versus moderate ethanol drinking are not identical. Thus the present study sought to investigate the potential role of the MC3R in binge-like ethanol intake. To this end, the "drinking in the dark" (DID) procedure, a commonly used animal model of binge-like ethanol drinking, was employed. Wild-type MC3R +/+ and MC3R −/− mice were given intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) infusion of MTII (0.0, 0.25, 0.50, or 1.0μg) prior to the onset of a 4-h testing period in which mice were given access to 20% (v/v) ethanol. Immediately after the 4-h testing period, tail blood samples were collected from each animal in order to assess blood ethanol concentrations (BECs). Consistent with previous findings, central administration of MTII blunted binge-like ethanol drinking in both MC3R +/+ and MC3R −/− mice. Interestingly, all doses of MTII blunted binge-like ethanol drinking in MC3R −/− mice during the first hour of testing, while only the 1.0μg dose reduced binge-like drinking in MC3R +/+ mice. Thus, MC3R −/− mice were more sensitive to the protective effects of MTII. These data suggest that MC3Rs oppose the protective effects of MTII against binge-like ethanol drinking, and thus selective MC3R antagonists may have potential therapeutic roles in treating excessive ethanol drinking.
Chronicling Landscape Transformation

Kilgo, John C., and John I. Blake, editors. Ecology and management of a forested landscape: fifty years on the Savannah River Site. Island Press, Washington D.C. xxii + 479 p. $79.95 (cloth), ISBN: 1-59726-010-X (alk. paper); $44.95 (paper), ISBN: 1-59726-011-8 (alk. paper).
Integrated circuit step and repeat inspection using spatial filtering

An improved method for photomask inspection employing spatial filtering is described. Previous techniques were not accurate enough for checking step and repeat photoplates over the field of the photomask. The technique described can measure pattern step and repeat by correlating it with a fringe pattern and using spatial filtering analyze the result. Results indicate a precision of about 0.1 mil over 1 cm field; the field should able to be extended to 5 cm with further experimental investigation.
Youth, Caregiver, and Staff Perspectives on an Initiative to Promote Success of Emerging Adults with Emotional and Behavioral Disabilities

Transitioning to adulthood is more challenging for youth with emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD) as compared to youth with other disability types and typically-developing peers. Outcomes for emerging adults with EBD as a group are particularly concerning in the domains of unemployment, educational dropout rates, and interactions with the judicial system including incarceration, early parenting, homelessness, substance abuse, mental health problems, and suicide. The current study presents qualitative program evaluation data for one of seven grantee states awarded 5-year cooperative agreements by the Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to build developmentally-appropriate and effective youth-guided local systems of care for transition age youth, ages 16–25 years, to promote positive transition outcomes. Findings, obtained from focus groups of 25 participating transition age youth, caregivers, staff, and supervisors, include strategies for maintaining and expanding on the strengths of program, as well as for improving specific program areas. Also, consistent with the goals of the program, this process provided an opportunity for the youth and caregivers to voice their opinions and perspectives regarding their services. Implications for research and practice on effectively serving the unique needs of young adults experiencing EBD and their families in areas such as navigating special education, providing emotional and behavioral supports, and leveraging interagency collaboration are discussed.
Boundary conditions for lattice Boltzmann simulations

A heuristic interpretation of no-slip boundary conditions for lattice Boltzmann and lattice gas simulations is developed. An improvement is suggested which consists of including the wall nodes in the collision operation.
Manufacture and Evaluation of a Fabricated Turkey Bacon

Abstract Turkey lean meat and turkey skin were used to manufacture fabricated turkey bacon. Ground turkey skin was used at 35%, 25%, 15%, and 5% of the formulation. The percentage of lean was increased with decreasing skin to keep the total skin plus meat constant at 70%. The ground lean meat and skin, isolated soy protein, and curing solution containing added water were mixed, heat processed, and sliced without the need for special processing equipment. For comparative purposes, a fabricated all pork bacon (35% lean, 35% fat) was manufactured and a commercial pork bacon was purchased. Sensory evaluation panels were conducted three days after manufacture and again after three weeks of refrigerated storage. Turkey bacons with 25% and 15% skin received more favorable ratings on all evaluated factors than did the other two turkey formulations. All of the fabricated turkey bacons were comparable in acceptability to the commercial and fabricated pork bacons. Three weeks storage did not decrease acceptability of the products. Cooking yields of all turkey formulations were significantly greater than for the commercial bacon. Cooking yields for the turkey bacons with 25%, 15%, and 5% skin were significantly greater than the yield for the fabricated pork bacon.
SHELL-MODEL COULOMB ENERGIES

Ahstraetr Analytical expressions have been derived for the total Coulomb energies, for isoscalar, isovector and isotensor Coulomb energies, and for Coulomb energy differences of nuclei with protons and neutrons in equivalent and in different major shell regions. The approach is related to earlier theoretical treatments of Carbon and Talmi and of Hecht. A simple A-dependence is assumed to account for the increase in radius. Introducing average matrix elements for the Coulomb interactions between valence-valence, valence-core, and core-core protons in each of the six major shell regions as adjustable parameters, a global fit with 21 parameters to 288 experimental Coulomb displacement energies with 4 <A < 240 gives good agreement with a standard deviation of (T = 4.5 keV. The interaction energies display discontinuities particularly at major proton shell crossings, and they generally decrease within shells less rapidly than A-“‘. The average decrease, however, fotlows approximately an A-lt3 dependence which explains the success of Coulomb energy equations based on liquid-drop models.
Sexuality Assessment: 10 Strategies for Improvement

Although nurses are aware that assessing sexuality, diagnosing sexuality problems, and evaluating outcomes of interventions to address patients' sexuality concerns are part of holistic care, they often do not perform sexuality assessment in practice. Understanding sexuality as patients' perceptions of body image, family roles and functions, relationships, and sexual function can help nurses improve assessment and diagnosis of actual or potential alterations in sexuality. In addition, nurses should increase their knowledge and understanding of sexuality, identify available information and resources, apply practice standards, and develop a skill set to incorporate sexuality questions routinely in clinical assessments. This article provides 10 strategies to help address and validate patients' sexuality experiences and quality-of-life concerns. By promoting sexual health, nurses can help patients regain a sense of normalcy after cancer diagnosis and treatment. Holistic care is provided when nurses acknowledge the importance of sexuality in patients' lives.
Reduction of aldehydes and ketones with tetraalkylammonium borohydrides

Abstract Misinterpretations regarding the selectivity of tetraalkylaminonium borohydride reductions in dichloromethane are resolved. Tetrabutyl ammonium borohydride offers several advantages, but both it and tetraethyl ammoniumborohydride are highly useful synthetic reagents.
Maternal inhibition of infant behavioral response following isolation in novel surroundings and inflammatory challenge.

During isolation in a novel environment, guinea pig pups gradually begin to display passive behavior that appears to be mediated by proinflammatory activity, i.e., “sickness behavior”. Administration of substances that increase proinflammatory activity [corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF), lipopolysacchride (LPS)] prior to isolation induces passive behavior from the beginning of the isolation episode. Here we show that reunion with the mother in the novel environment rapidly and potently suppresses the passive behavior of isolated pups (Experiment 1); inhibits the passive behavior of pups administered CRF (10 μg, subcutaneous; Experiment 2); and inhibits the passive behavior of male, though not female, pups administered LPS (250 μg/kg, intraperitoneal; Experiment 3). Together these findings suggest that the presence of the mother either recruits other processes that moderate the impact of proinflammatory processes on brain mechanisms mediating the passive response or initiates compensatory mechanisms that counter the effect of proinflammatory activity. Further, the results suggest that for physically ill animals of social species, the adaptive advantage that accrues from maintaining normal social interactions may sometimes outweigh the advantage gained by engaging in sickness behavior.
Differential changes in serum concentrations of androgens and estrogens (in relation with cortisol) in postmenopausal women with acute illness

Previous studies of adrenal androgens and estrogens in critical illness were limited by measuring only selected sex steroids and by including men (who have confounding simultaneous changes in gonadal steroids). We evaluated relationships between changes in serum levels of cortisol (F), androgens, estrogens, and gonadotropins in 20 postmenopausal women with acute critical illness to determine if changes in adrenal androgens and estrogens paralleled gonadal axis suppression or adrenal stimulation. Two patterns of changes in sex steroids were observed. Admission serum levels of androstenedione (delta 4-A), estradiol, and estrone, like F, were increased compared to healthy controls (P < 0.0001). delta 4-A and estrone then decreased toward normal by day 5 in parallel with cortisol (r = 0.56 and 0.60). In contrast, admission serum dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and DHEA-sulfate (DHEA-S) were not elevated and testosterone (T) was decreased in our patients compared to controls (P < 0.0005) in parallel with serum gonadotropin levels. Serum levels of DHEA and T continued to decrease by day 5 in parallel with gonadotropins. We conclude that in agonadal patients with acute critical illness, serum levels of DHEA-S and T are selectively decreased in relation to F, delta 4-A, and estrogens. The decreased serum T levels suggest inhibition of 17 beta-OH-dehydrogenase and/or increased aromatization to estradiol. The marked increase in serum estrogen levels also suggests increased aromatization. The absence of increases in DHEA and DHEA-S suggest enhanced activity of 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase and/or inhibition of C17,20-lyase activity of P-450c17. The clinical significance of this marked increase in the ratio of estrogens to androgens in acute illness requires further investigation.
Structural commonalities among integral membrane enzymes

The X-ray crystal structures of five distinct enzymes (prostaglandin H(2) synthase, squalene cyclase, fatty acid amide hydrolase, microsomal cytochrome P450, and estrone sulfatase) challenge contemporary descriptions of integral membrane proteins. This structurally divergent group represents an important component of the integral membrane proteome that lies at the bilayer's aqueous interface. We summarize here what is collectively understood about the membrane insertion of these proteins, what roles they may play in lipid biology, and their relationship to soluble structural homologs.
Bootstrap Particle Filtering

This article provides an overview of nonlinear statistical signal processing based on the Bayesian paradigm. The next-generation processors are well founded on MC simulation-based sampling techniques. The development of the sequential Bayesian processor is reviewed using the state-space models. The popular bootstrap algorithm was outlined and applied to an ocean acoustic synthetic aperture towed array target tracking problem to test the performance of a particle filtering technique.
Resonance Raman studies of excited state structural displacements of conjugated polymers in donor/acceptor charge transfer complexes

Resonance Raman spectra of poly(2-methoxy-5-(3′-7′-dimethyloctyloxy)-1,4-phenylenevinylene) (MDMO-PPV) and small molecule acceptor blend charge transfer (CT) complexes reveal long and detailed progressions of overtone and combination bands. These features are sensitive to the specific MDMO-PPV/acceptor interactions and enable quantitative calculations of vibrational mode specific displacements of the polymer CT complex.
Variations in the four and a half LIM domains 1 gene (FHL1) are associated with fasting insulin and insulin sensitivity responses to regular exercise

Aims/hypothesis The expression of the four and a half LIM domains 1 gene (FHL1) is increased in the muscle of individuals who show an improvement in insulin sensitivity index (SI) after 20 weeks of exercise training. The aim of the present study was to investigate associations between three FHL1 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and variables derived from an IVGTT, both in the sedentary state and in response to exercise training, in participants in the HERITAGE Family Study.
The peregrinations of pattini

Obeyesekere, Gananath. The Cult of the Goddess Pattini. Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 1984. xvii + 629 pp. including notes, bibliography, and index. $42.00 cloth.
Role of proactive interference in infantile forgetting

Ontogenetic changes in the role of proactive interference in augmenting forgetting were tested with 444 rats as subjects. In Experiment 1, Phase 1 (the source of proactive inter­ ference) included events that were contingent or not contingent on responding in the context of either the Phase 2 training apparatus or a distinctly different apparatus. After learning a spatial discrimination for Phase 2, retention tests were given after intervals of 2 min, 1 day, 7 days, 30 days, or 65 days. The results indicated: (1) infantile amnesia, and (2) proactive inter­ ference for infant rats but not for adults, in spite of substantial simple forgetting among adults. Experiment 2 extended the test to a go/no-go avoidance task. The results of Experiment 2 gave some indication that infants were more susceptible than were adults to proactive interfer­ ence over short intervals, but the generality of this relationship was sufficiently ambiguous as to suggest different mechanisms of interference for the discrimination and go/no-go tasks. These data indicate multiple mechanisms of infantile forgetting that may vary with certain characteristics of the task.
Immunodeficiency Diseases: Head and Neck Manifestations

Upper respiratory infections represent the most prevalent illness to affect normal children during their development. Similarly, immunodeficient children exhibit upper respiratory infections as the major manifestation of their altered immunologic state. Head and neck surgeons are often confronted with children who historically appear to have an increased susceptibility to infections. How, then, can one distinguish between the “normal” child and one who is immunodeficient? An accurate history of the nature of the infections is of great help. Do the infections truly occur more frequently than would be expected? Are they more severe or do they last longer than expected? Do unexpected complications occur, especially from organisms with low pathogenicity? Positive responses to these questions could indicate that the patient is immunodeficient.
Antibiotic-associated diarrhoea

Diarrhoea is a common complication of antimicrobial therapy. The term antibiotic-associated diarrhoea (AAD) is often considered synonymous with Clostridium difficile. In fact, AAD can develop through a variety of mechanisms and manifest through a broad range of clinical signs and symptoms. For improved prevention and recognition of AAD, it is important to understand the pathophysiology and risk factors for AAD. Although Clostridium difficile continues to be the most common identifiable pathogen of AAD, many patients with AAD can be managed through a variety of conservative measures. This review focuses on some of the important distinctions between nonspecific AAD and antibiotic-associated colitis. In addition, the most recent data on important risk factors for the development of AAD are summarised. Given its pathogenicity, there will be an emphasis on the early diagnosis, treatment and prevention of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhoea. AAD is a common clinical problem that can progress to severe, l...
Regulation of energy homeostasis by peripheral signals

The increased incidence of obesity makes it imperative to understand the regulation of food intake and body weight. We review the signals that interact with the brain to control energy homeostasis, i.e. energy intake and expenditure. Three broad categories can be distinguished. Signals generated in the gastrointestinal tract during meals ('satiety' signals, e.g. cholecystokinin) elicit satiation and contribute to stopping the meal. The potency of these acutely acting signals must be increased if they are to be used therapeutically. Hormonal signals whose secretion is proportional to body fat (adiposity signals, leptin and insulin) robustly reduce food intake and body weight by directly stimulating receptors locally in the brain. Therapeutic applications will have to find ways to circumvent the systemic actions of these hormones, targeting only the brain. Satiety and adiposity signals interact with neuronal circuits in the brain that utilize myriad neurotransmitters to cause net catabolic or anabolic responses. Considerable effort is being directed towards finding ways to intervene in specific circuits to help accomplish weight loss.
Quinones as the Redox Signal for the Arc Two-Component System of Bacteria

The Arc two-component signal transduction system mediates adaptive responses of Escherichia coli to changing respiratory conditions of growth. Under anaerobic conditions, the ArcB sensor kinase autophosphorylates and then transphosphorylates ArcA, a global transcriptional regulator that controls the expression of numerous operons involved in respiratory or fermentative metabolism. We show that oxidized forms of quinone electron carriers act as direct negative signals that inhibit autophosphorylation of ArcB during aerobiosis. Thus, the Arc signal transduction system provides a link between the electron transport chain and gene expression.
Induction of early growth response-1 gene by interleukin-1 beta and tumor necrosis factor-alpha in normal human bone marrow stromal an osteoblastic cells: regulation by a protein kinase C inhibitor.

The early growth response-1 (Egr-1) gene has been identified as a nuclear transcriptional factor and implicated in the regulation of growth and differentiation of osteoblastic cells. In the present study, we investigated whether Egr-1 mRNA is expressed and induced by interleukin-1 β (IL-β) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in normal human bond marrow stromal (HBMS) and osteoblastic (HOB) cells. Results demonstrate a very low basal expression of Egr-1 mRNA which is induced by IL-1 β and TNF-α in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Egr-1 mRNA induction was detectable within 15 min, reached maximal by 60 min and thereafter declined to basal levels by 120 min. Induction of Egr-1 mRNA by IL-1β and TNF-α was completely inhibited by H-7 suggesting the mediation of protein kinase C. The induction by IL-1 β and TNF-α of Egr-1 mRNA was independent of de novo protein synthesis since this induction was also observed in the presence of protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide. Fetal bovine serum and cycloheximide also independently induced the Egr-1 mRNA. Actinomycin D experiments demonstrated that Egr-1 mRNA is degraded very rapidly with a half-life of 30 min. Our results demonstrate the expression of Egr-1 gene and its induction by IL-1β, and TNF-α in normal human bone marrow stromal (osteoprogenitor) and osteoblastic cells in primary cultures. Data also reveal that the expression of Egr-1 gene is inhibited by protein kinase C inhibitor H-7 suggesting that the activation of protein kinase C or other protein kinases resulting in the phosphorylation of specific transcription factor(s) is the first immediate early step in the induction of immediate-early Egr-1 gene by IL-1 β and TNF-α. Results also suggest that Egr-1 is an important mediator of IL-1 β and TNF-α action in normal human osteoblastic cells.
Research or perish

SUMMARY The opportunity for sound pastoral care research is not served by the “all or nothing” approach. Professional chaplains whose training includes a thorough orientation to the research process are in a position to speak to the world of science about realities that are beyond physical research, and to the world of theology about realities that should be examined. Cloning, embryonic experimentation, and drug trials in Third World populations are among the areas without the voices of pastoral theologians. Closer to daily practice, research is an invaluable tool in helping chaplains improve their ministry.
An Evaluation of the Facilitative Effects of Inverted Yes-No Questions on the Acquisition of Auxiliary Verbs

According to the Auxiliary Clarification Hypothesis (ACH), yes-no questions with sentence-initial auxiliaries (i.e., inverted questions) facilitate children's initial acquisition of auxiliary verbs...
A note on adaptive Bonferroni and Holm procedures under dependence

SUMMARY Hochberg & Benjamini (1990) first presented adaptive procedures for controlling familywise error rate. However, until now, it has not been proved that these procedures control the familywise error rate. We introduce a simplified version of Hochberg & Benjamini’s adaptive Bonferroni and Holm procedures. Assuming a conditional dependence model, we prove that the former procedure controls the familywise error rate in finite samples while the latter controls it approximately.
Classroom note: Polynomial solutions of the Laguerre equation and other differential equations near a singular point

It can be shown that if a differential equation is analytic near a point, then it is always possible to select a forcing term along with initial conditions that will ensure the solution to the new non-homogeneous equation is a polynomial that is the finite, truncated portion of the (infinite) series solution of the original equation. It turns out that this result can be extended to expansions about a singular point. The conditions under which such a polynomial truncation can be accomplished about a singular point are presented in the Appendix. A brief algorithm is described that enables one to choose the appropriate forcing term and initial conditions. Following this, an example involving Laguerre's equation is presented.
Topical ethyl ether therapy of herpes simplex lesions

A simple and effective method of treating herpes simplex lesions using topical application of ethyl ether relieves pain almost immediately and aborts progression of the lesion. The therapeutic rationale for using this modality is based on the ability of ether to penetrate the epidermis and to destroy the ether sensitive envelope of the virus. A decrease in frequency and even elimination of recurrences has been suggested.
Analysis Of Thermal Infrared And Visual Images For Industrial Inspection Tasks

In this paper, a method is proposed for the integration of information which can be derived from the thermal infrared and visual modes based on the use of edge (dissimilarity) properties of the two types of images. The method involves the use of the Sobel operator to extract and classify edge points according to their strengths. A point-by-point comparison of edges from the visual and TIR images is made. Heuristics, supported by the physical processes affecting the image formation, are employed to give a probabilistic interpretation to each point in the images based on the strengths of edge points detected in the two images at the point. The validity of this approach is tested in a laboratory environment.
Laparoscopic Paraesophageal Hernia Repair: Advanced Age Is Associated with Minor but Not Major Morbidity or Mortality

Background Large studies have documented the safety of laparoscopic paraesophageal hernia (PEH) repair in the general population. Even though this condition affects primarily the elderly, data on the short-term outcomes of this procedure on the oldest-old are lacking. Study Design The NSQIP database was analyzed for all patients undergoing laparoscopic PEH repair in 2010 and 2011. Chi-square, Fisher's exact, and 2-tailed Student's t -test were used to compare baseline characteristics, morbidity, and mortality. Binary logistic regression was used to control for confounding variables. Odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were reported when applicable. Results A total of 2,681 patients undergoing laparoscopic PEH repair were identified. The mean (±SD) age of the cohort was 63 ± 14 years. We identified 313 patients (11.7%) aged 80 years and older. Using regression analysis, advanced age (OR 1.7, 95% CI 1.1 to 2.7, p = 0.009), American Society of Anesthesiologists class 3 or 4 (OR 1.4, 95% CI 1.0 to 2.1, p = 0.045), gastrostomy placement (OR 2.4, 95% CI 1.3 to 4.7, p = 0.007), and significant recent weight loss (OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.1 to 4.1, p = 0.037) were independently associated with development of overall morbidity. Mortality (1% vs 0.4%, p = 0.16) and serious morbidity (5.8% vs 3.7%, p = 0.083) were not significantly different between the older and younger groups. Minor morbidity was higher in the older group (8.3% vs 3.5%, OR 2.5, 95% CI 1.6 to 3.9, p Conclusions In an assessment of modern nationwide practice, laparoscopic PEH repair is performed with minimal morbidity and mortality. Elective repair in patients aged 80 years or older is not associated with significant differences in mortality or major morbidity compared with younger patients.
Large-scale neural circuit mapping data analysis accelerated with the graphical processing unit (GPU).

Abstract Background Modern neuroscience research demands computing power. Neural circuit mapping studies such as those using laser scanning photostimulation (LSPS) produce large amounts of data and require intensive computation for post hoc processing and analysis. New method Here we report on the design and implementation of a cost-effective desktop computer system for accelerated experimental data processing with recent GPU computing technology. A new version of Matlab software with GPU enabled functions is used to develop programs that run on Nvidia GPUs to harness their parallel computing power. Results We evaluated both the central processing unit (CPU) and GPU-enabled computational performance of our system in benchmark testing and practical applications. The experimental results show that the GPU–CPU co-processing of simulated data and actual LSPS experimental data clearly outperformed the multi-core CPU with up to a 22× speedup, depending on computational tasks. Further, we present a comparison of numerical accuracy between GPU and CPU computation to verify the precision of GPU computation. In addition, we show how GPUs can be effectively adapted to improve the performance of commercial image processing software such as Adobe Photoshop. Comparison with existing method(s) To our best knowledge, this is the first demonstration of GPU application in neural circuit mapping and electrophysiology-based data processing. Conclusions Together, GPU enabled computation enhances our ability to process large-scale data sets derived from neural circuit mapping studies, allowing for increased processing speeds while retaining data precision.
RAGS: The Gaseous Sample Collection Diagnostic at the National Ignition Facility

Radiochemical diagnostic techniques such as solid- and gas-phase capsule debris analysis may prove to be successful methods for establishing the success or failure of ignition experiments at the National Ignition Facility (NIF). Samples in the gas phase offer the most direct method of collection by simply pumping out the large target chamber following a NIF shot. The target capsules will be prepared with dopants, which will produce radioactive noble-gas isotopes upon activation with neutrons or charged particles. We have designed and constructed the Radchem Apparatus for Gas Sampling (RAGS) in order to collect postshot gaseous samples for NIF capsule diagnostics. The design of RAGS incorporates multiple stages intended to cryogenically purify, transfer, and count the radioactive decays from gaseous products synthesized in NIF experiments. An implementation timeline at NIF is discussed.