cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Stress and the "extended" autonomic system.

Abstract This review updates three key concepts of autonomic neuroscience—stress, the autonomic nervous system (ANS), and homeostasis. Hans Selye popularized stress as a scientific idea. He defined stress variously as a stereotyped response pattern, a state that evokes this pattern, or a stimulus that evokes the state. According to the “homeostat” theory stress is a condition where a comparator senses a discrepancy between sensed afferent input and a response algorithm, the integrated error signal eliciting specific patterns of altered effector outflows. Scientific advances since Langley's definition of the ANS have incited the proposal here of the “extended autonomic system,” or EAS, for three reasons. (1) Several neuroendocrine systems are bound inextricably to Langley's ANS. The first to be described, by Cannon in the early 1900s, involves the hormone adrenaline, the main effector chemical of the sympathetic adrenergic system. Other neuroendocrine systems are the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical system, the arginine vasopressin system, and the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. (2) An evolving body of research links the ANS complexly with inflammatory/immune systems, including vagal anti-inflammatory and catecholamine-related inflammasomal components. (3) A hierarchical network of brain centers (the central autonomic network, CAN) regulates ANS outflows. Embedded within the CAN is the central stress system conceptualized by Chrousos and Gold. According to the allostasis concept, homeostatic input-output curves can be altered in an anticipatory, feed-forward manner; and prolonged or inappropriate allostatic adjustments increase wear-and-tear (allostatic load), resulting in chronic, stress-related, multi-system disorders. This review concludes with sections on clinical and therapeutic implications of the updated concepts offered here.
Foundations for Creativity in the Writing Process

A creative act is usually defined as one that has a valuable or interesting product and that is in some way original or surprising (Hayes, 1981). However, whether we characterize a particular act as “creative” clearly depends on the context or circumstances in which it takes place. For example, we evaluate the creativity of a child’s drawing using different criteria from those we would apply to a painting by Monet; a creative act may be enriching to one individual or it may have earth-shaking consequences. Although creativity in writing is popularly associated with literary genres, other genres, such as expository writing, also offer opportunities for creative products. For example, a research report, a proposal, or a magazine article could be judged creative if it presents information in a new and valuable way to meet the needs and constraints of its audience and purpose—that is, if the text presents an innovative solution to a significant rhetorical problem.
Algebraic Shift Register Sequences

1. Introduction Part I. Algebraically Defined Sequences: 2. Sequences 3. Linear feedback shift registers and linear recurrences 4. Feedback with carry shift registers and multiply with carry sequences 5. Algebraic feedback shift registers 6. d-FCSRs 7. Galois mode, linear registers, and related circuits Part II. Pseudo-Random and Pseudo-Noise Sequences: 8. Measures of pseudo-randomness 9. Shift and add sequences 10. M-sequences 11. Related sequences and their correlations 12. Maximal period function field sequences 13. Maximal period FCSR sequences 14. Maximal period d-FCSR sequences Part III. Register Synthesis and Security Measures: 15. Register synthesis and LFSR synthesis 16. FCSR synthesis 17. AFSR synthesis 18. Average and asymptotic behavior of security measures Part IV. Algebraic Background: A. Abstract algebra B. Fields C. Finite local rings and Galois rings D. Algebraic realizations of sequences Bibliography Index.
Treatment of Primary Progressive Aphasia

Primary progressive aphasia (PPA) is a neurodegenerative disease that primarily affects language functions and often begins in the fifth or sixth decade of life. The devastating effects on work and home life call for the investigation of treatment alternatives. In this paper, we present a review of the literature on treatment approaches for this neurodegenerative disease. We also present new data from two intervention studies we have conducted, a behavioral one and a neuromodulatory one using transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) combined with written production intervention. We show that speech-language intervention improves language outcomes in individuals with PPA, and especially in the short term, tDCS augments generalization and maintenance of positive language outcomes. We also outline current issues and challenges in intervention approaches in PPA.
Aerobic exercise training enhances hydrogen peroxide mediated flow induced dilation of resistance arteries following exertion in overweight adults (678.8)

Exercise training protects against exertion-induced microvasculature dysfunction. The purpose of this study was to determine if aerobic exercise training (AT) in overweight adults confers a protect...
Pyrimidine Biosynthesis de Novo in Skin

Abstract The orotic acid pathway was shown to function in the biosynthesis de novo of pyrimidine nucleotides in newborn to 4-day-old mouse skin in vitro. The pathway was established with the use of NaH14CO3, carbamylaspartate-ureido-14C, and orotic acid-2-14C. The labeled carbon in each of the three compounds was incorporated into position C-2 of uracil. In addition, NaH14CO3 was incorporated into carbamylaspartate, orotic acid, and 3'-UMP and 3'-CMP of RNA. Exogenously added carbamylaspartate inhibited the formation of orotic acid from bicarbonate. Carbamylaspartate was converted to orotic acid, and both of these compounds were incorporated into 3'-UMP and 3'-CMP of skin RNA.
Extreme electron fluxes in the outer zone

[1] Following the work of Koons (2001), we examine the statistical properties of extremely high fluxes of MeV electrons in the outer zone. We extend the analysis to include a variety of timescales and energies using observations from Los Alamos monitors at geosynchronous orbit and to include outer zone fluxes observed from L ∼ 2–8 by spacecraft in highly elliptical Molniya orbits. We use the statistical formalism of the generalized extreme value distribution, which represents the probability distribution of the maximum value taken out of a sample of fixed size. By taking the maximum flux observed in many nonoverlapping intervals of several hours to several days, we can determine whether the maximum flux is likely to have a finite upper limit or an exponential or power law tail. Our analysis indicates that MeV electron fluxes over a broad range of energies, L shells, and timescales have a finite upper limit, a true worst case. However, the statistical estimate of this upper limit is inherently uncertain. We compare our upper limits to the internal charging specifications provided by Fennell et al. (2000). We discuss several possible physical explanations for the flux limits.
The dropout problem in antihypertensive treatment. A pilot study of social and emotional factors influencing a patient's ability to follow antihypertensive treatment.

IN THE past decade there has been a 44 per cent reduction in death rates due to hypertensive heart disease [l]. This improvement in mortality is probably attributable to the notable progress in antihypertensive drug treatment during the same period of time. We have learned, however, that hypertension, like diabetes, requires life long medical supervision. A substantial proportion of patients drop out of treatment. Some of these patients who abandon antihypertensive treatment turn up in the hospital emergency room with a serious complication of uncontrolled hypertensive disease which in some cases is disastrous. We have found that many patients coming to the Emergency Room of the Henry Ford Hospital with a hypertensive crisis have stopped previous antihypertensive treatment. This finding raised 2 questions: (1) How many patients drop out of treatment for hypertensive disease? (2) Why do patients drop out of treatment? In order to answer the first question, we studied losses from the hypertension division among 76 patients first seen in the year 1961 and for whom treatment was undertaken by the clinic. All of these patients were new to Henry Ford Hospital in 1961, and were found to have an established diastolic hypertension as evidenced by a basal diastolic blood pressure of 90 mm Hg or above. A patient was regarded as lost from the clinic if there was no evidence of referral to another physician, and if the patient had been inconsistent in that he had not returned on or within 3 months after the date of the scheduled return visit, or had discontinued medication for 30 days or more. By 11 months 50 per cent of those patients studied had been
Non-Rigid Motion Models for Tracking the Left Ventricular Wall

A unified framework for visual motion tracking of non-rigid objects with specific applications to the left ventricular endocardial wall motion is outlined. The theory considers both two dimensional contours and three dimensional surfaces and in each case uses an elastic model of the object with constraints on the types of motion allowed for tracking the movement. The basic theme in both two and three dimensional analysis is to match bending and stretching properties of shapes in consecutive time instances for deducing quantitative information about the motion of the LV wall. Several algorithms are presented, and applications to real and simulated data are included. At the end, future directions for research are discussed.
Cyclic adenosine 3':5'-monophosphate and cytosolic calcium exert opposing effects on biosynthesis of tetrodotoxin-sensitive sodium channels in rat muscle cells

We have previously presented evidence that electrical activity and increased cytosolic calcium reduce the density of sarcolemmal tetrodotoxin (TTX)-sensitive sodium channels in cultured rat muscle cells (Sherman, S. J., and W. A. Catterall (1984) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U. S. A. 81: 262-266). We show here that growth of cells in ryanodine has a biphasic effect on sodium channel number. At low concentrations (0.3 to 10 microM) where this drug releases calcium from the sarcoplasmic reticulum into the cytoplasm, sodium channel number is reduced 62%; whereas, at higher concentrations where total cellular calcium is depleted, the density of sodium channels is increased 40% above control. These results provide further evidence for modulation of sodium channel number by cytosolic calcium. Growth of muscle cells in the presence of agents that mimic cyclic AMP (cAMP) action or increase intracellular cAMP levels including 8-bromo-cyclic AMP (8-BrcAMP), cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase inhibitors, and forskolin increased sodium channel density up to 125%. This action did not involve changes in spontaneous electrical activity. Dibutyryl cGMP had no effect. Measurement of the turnover rate of sodium channels after block of channel accumulation by tunicamycin (1.5 micrograms/ml) gave a half-time of 18 hr for exponential decay of TTX-sensitive sodium channels in cultured rat muscle cells after an initial 6-hr lag period. Treatments which modulate sodium channel number through changes in cytosolic calcium or cAMP had no effect on the rate of channel turnover. The increase of sodium channel number after inhibiton of electrical activity or treatment with 8-BrcAMP was half-maximal at 17 hr, consistent with an increase in the rate of sodium channel biosynthesis and/or incorporation into the sarcolemma without a change in channel turnover time. We conclude that cytosolic calcium decreases and cAMP increases sodium channel number by modulating the rate of biosynthesis and/or processing of channel components. The biochemical mechanisms of these regulatory effects are considered.
Response Interruption and Differential Reinforcement of Alternative Behavior for the Treatment of Pica

Pica displayed by two individuals with autism was decreased by a treatment involving differential reinforcement and response interruption that altered the chain of behavior involved in pica (i.e., picking up items and placing them in the mouth). The treatment involved establishing prompts to ‘clean-up’ as a new discriminative stimulus (SD) for picking up items from the floor; and holding potential pica items was established as an SD for discarding those items in a trash receptacle, putting them away, or using them appropriately. After demonstrating the effectiveness of the treatment in an analog setting, the treatment package was systematically generalized to community settings. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Pica, the ingestion of non-nutritive substances, has been estimated to occur in 0.3–14.4% of persons with intellectual disabilities (ID) who reside in community
Who's Missing? Predictors of Attrition Following Participation in Culturally Targeted Educational Breast and Cervical Cancer Outreach Programs for Latinas.

Rates of breast and cervical cancer screening among Latinas are suboptimal. The Esperanza y Vida program was developed to increase awareness of screening methods among Latinas. Lay health advisor cancer survivors are trained to deliver the program and use a narrative communication approach to promote breast and cervical cancer awareness and screening. This study aimed to identify characteristics of participants, within the larger study, who were lost, due to attrition, for follow-up assistance. Participants (N = 908) completed questionnaires that assessed knowledge, perceptions, and beliefs about breast and cervical cancer and were contacted after the program to assess screening and offer assistance in obtaining screening exams. Latinas who were younger than 40 years of age and who felt that the survivor's story would prompt them to make an appointment for screening were more likely to be lost to follow-up at 2 months. These findings have implications for future breast and cervical cancer outreach program...
Performance measurements for privacy preserving data mining

This paper establishes the foundation for the performance measurements of privacy preserving data mining techniques. The performance is measured in terms of the accuracy of data mining results and the privacy protection of sensitive data. On the accuracy side, we address the problem of previous measures and propose a new measure, named “effective sample size”, to solve this problem. We show that our new measure can be bounded without any knowledge of the data being mined, and discuss when the bound can be met. On the privacy protection side, we identify a tacit assumption made by previous measures and show that the assumption is unrealistic in many situations. To solve the problem, we introduce a game theoretic framework for the measurement of privacy.
The Prevalence of Delusional Disorder in Prison

Delusional disorder has important implications for forensic psychiatrists, as delusions are not infrequently related to criminal behavior. Thus, we hypothesized that delusional disorder is over-represented in correctional populations. We conducted a retrospective chart review of the electronic medical records from 2000 to 2012 of New Jersey Department of Corrections inmates who remained incarcerated as of March 2012. Potential cases of delusional disorder were initially identified by using a search for current or past diagnoses of such disorders or other diagnoses that could be misdiagnosed cases. After an initial chart review identified an inmate as having probable delusional disorder according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-IV-TR) criteria, the diagnosis was confirmed by at least one concurring independent review. We estimate a point prevalence of 0.24 percent for delusional disorder in our population, which is eight times higher than that expected in the community.
Scale Distributions and Fractal Dimensions in Turbulence.

A new geometric framework connecting scale distributions to coverage statistics is employed to analyze level sets arising in turbulence as well as in other phenomena. A 1D formalism is described and applied to Poisson, lognormal, and power-law statistics. A d-dimensional generalization is also presented. Level sets of 2D spatial measurements of jet-fluid concentration in turbulent jets are analyzed to compute scale distributions and fractal dimensions. Lognormal statistics are used to model the level sets at inner scales. The results are in accord with data from other turbulent flows.
Aging and cardiac function

Aging is a universal phenomenon and as such has always attracted the interest of most physicians. A review of the interaction between cardiac function and aging is particularly relevant because of several factors. The first is that the prevalence of heart disease increases so dramatically with age that the vast majority of coronary disease and congestive heart failure are present in individuals over 60 years of age. Similarly the leading cause of death in the older age groups is cardiovascular disease. Therefore, for most purposes, the treatment of ischemic heart disease and its complications are by and large the treatment of older patients. Another reason to review this subject now is because of the relatively recent application of new non-invasive nuclear cardiology techniques to answer two important questions with regard to aging and the heart. The first is which individuals do and do not have ischemic heart disease. This is crucial because, in order to examine physiologic aging in man, it is necessary to study individuals who do not have cardiac disease. It is relatively easy to identify hypertension and most other cardiac diseases but it is apparent from autopsy studies that well over one-half of coronary artery disease, the most common pathology, is asymptomatic [l]. A negative result, however, on both stress thallium scintigraphy and electrocardiography in an individual carries a high predictive accuracy that that person does not have coronary disease [2]. The second question which can now be examined is the effect of age on cardiac function during exercise stress. Prior assessments of age-associated limitations on workload achieved or oxygen consumption during exercise may reflect limitations imposed by age-related changes in respiratory or musculoskeletal factors as well as age-related alterations in cardiac parameters. The use of gated blood pool imaging in conjunction
Mass Spectrometric Identification of Si–O–H(g) Species from the Reaction of Silica with Water Vapor at Atmospheric Pressure

A high-pressure sampling mass spectrometer was used to detect the volatile species formed from SiO2 at temperatures between 1200C and 1400C in a flowing water vapor/oxygen gas mixture at 1 bar total pressure. The primary vapor species identified was Si(OH)4. The fragment ion Si(OH)3+,' was observed in quantities 3 to 5 times larger than the parent ion Si(OH)4+. The Si(OH)3+ intensity was found to have a small temperature dependence and to increase with the water vapor partial pressure as expected. In addition, SiO(OH)+ believed to be a fragment of SiO(OH)2, was observed. These mass spectral results were compared to the behavior of silicon halides.
Experimental comparison of circular, elliptical and rectangular (fishnet) negative index metamaterials

Negative index materials consisting of Au-Al2O3-Au films with a 2D array of apertures have been fabricated. Circular, elliptical and rectangular apertures are compared. Comparable figures of merit [-Re(n)/Im(n)] are observed for all three geometries.
The Sit-to-Stand Technique for the Measurement of Dynamic Cerebral Autoregulation

Measurement of cerebral autoregulation is important for the evaluation and management of a number of clinical disorders that affect cerebral blood flow. We currently lack simple bedside measures that mimic common physiologic stresses. Therefore, we evaluated a new sit-to-stand technique as an alternative method to the frequently-used thigh-cuff technique in healthy volunteers. Continuous middle cerebral artery (MCA) blood flow velocities (BFV) and arterial blood pressure (ABP) were measured in response to standing from a sitting position, or rapid thigh-cuff deflation in 24 healthy subjects (50 +/- 22 y). Autoregulatory index (ARI) was calculated as the BFV response for step changes in ABP using a second-order differential equation with a set of parameters that can be used to grade the performance of autoregulation. Of these 24 subjects, 30% could tolerate only two thigh-cuffs and refused to proceed with the third cuff, whereas none of our subjects had any difficulty with performing the three sit-to-stand trials. The two techniques produced similar changes in mean ABP, but the times to nadir of the blood pressure and BFV were significantly faster for the thigh-cuff. The mean group ARIs were similar between the two techniques. Although between-subjects variability was higher for sit-to-stand ARIs, the within-subject sit-to-stand ARI variability was small. Thus, for the assessment of cerebral autoregulation, the sit-to-stand procedure is well tolerated and produces ARI values that have low within-subject variability. The sit-to-stand technique appears to be a suitable measure of individual ARI values for inferring dynamic cerebral autoregulation.
Aggressive and atypical manifestations of Erdheim-Chester disease

Erdheim-Chester disease (ECD) is a disseminated non-Langerhans' cell histiocytosis with multisystem involvement, including characteristic sclerotic musculoskeletal lesions. We present the case of a 27-year-old woman with a fulminant course and atypical involvement by ECD manifesting as extensive cerebrovascular disease and lytic musculoskeletal lesions. This case represents an unusual and aggressive presentation of ECD owing to the patient's young age, the severity of the cerebrovascular involvement and the lytic osseous lesions.
Stimulus control of the maternal pheromone in the lactating rat.

Abstract The lactating albino rat, at about 14 days postpartum, begins to emit a pheromone that serves as a powerful attractant to young. It was shown that the induction of this pheromone can be prevented if the female is made to experience only neonatal pups for a period of some two weeks. The time of emission of the pheromone could not, however, be hastened by substituting for the mother's own litter pups of an advanced age. The role of prolactin in mediating these results was discussed.
Massive Aspiration Past the Tracheal Tube Cuff Caused by Closed Tracheal Suction System

Background: Aspiration past the tracheal tube cuff has been recognized to be a risk factor for the development of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). This study investigated the effect of closed tracheal suctioning on aspiration of fluid past the tracheal tube cuff in an in vitro benchtop model. Methods: High-volume low pressure tube cuffs of 7.5 mm internal diameter (ID) were placed in a 22 mm ID artificial trachea connected to a test lung. Positive pressure ventilation (PPV) with 15 cm H2O peak inspiratory pressure and 5 cm H2O positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) was used. A closed tracheal suction system (CTSS) catheter (size 14Fr) was attached to the tracheal tube and suction was performed for 5, 10, 15, or 20 seconds under 200 or 300 cm H2O suction pressures. Amount of fluid (mL) aspirated along the tube cuff and the airway pressure changes were recorded for each suction procedure. Fluid aspiration during different suction conditions was compared using Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney test (Bon...
Marrow transplantation for thrombocytopenia-absent radii syndrome.

A two-year-old girl with thrombocytopenia—absent radii syndrome underwent transplantation of allogeneic bone marrow from her histocompatible sibling to correct her persistently low platelet count. Six years after transplantation, she has durable engraftment of allogeneic marrow and a normal platelet count that will allow her to undergo necessary corrective orthopedic procedures.
The Relative Size of the Negro Population and Negro Occupational Status

The hypothesis that the relative size of the Negro poptulation and Negro -occupationlal status are inversely related was niot supported by a study of the populations of the 151 SMA's that had 100,000 or more people in 1950. However, this finding was not construed as a refutation of the widely held belief that discrimination against a minority varies directly with the relative size of the miinority population. Rather, it was concluded that "overflow" of Negroes inlto intermediate-level occupations offsets any -reater discriminationi in those localities where the relative numher of Negroes is large.
Sabertooth cats and their relevance for early hominid diet and evolution

Abstract Large carnivores structure the character of scavenging opportunities in any environment. In Pliocene and early Pleistocene Africa there were three large sabertooth cats sympatric with the ancestors of the modern felid community, and scavenging opportunities were presumably different from those in modern Africa. An understanding of a possible scavenging niche for early hominids must articulate knowledge gained from actualistic research with detailed reconstructions of extinct carnivore paleoecology. Contrasting skeletal and dental anatomy suggest that sabertooths and modern felids were ecologically distinct. Evidence from functional morphology and fossil associations elucidates the distinctions. Sabertooth incisor and carnassial morphology indicates extreme flesh specialisation and lack of bone-crushing ability. Sabertooth cranial morphology and fossil associations suggest a specialisation upon very large prey. The post-cranial morphology of sabertooths indicates a dense woodland and forest habitat preference. This implies that two distinct large carnivore communities existed in the Pliocene and early Pleistocene: a mixed and open habitat community composed of the ancestors of the extant carnivore community plus Chasmaporthetes, and a closed habitat community dominated by the sabertooths. Scavenging opportunities in the closed habitat community would have been much better than in more open habitats. Homo habilis with its inferred arboreal abilities could have passively scavenged very effectively in dense woodlands and forests. Paleoenvironmental and paleontological data indicate that these closed habitats shrunk after 1·7 million years ago and the sabertooths probably went extinct in sub-Saharan Africa. Homo habilis perhaps increasingly utilised more open habitats and would have been forced to confront large predators to gain adequate scavenging returns. Archaeological data of stone tool raw materials and site placement suggests that early hominids switched from an emphasis on dense woodland habitats to increased usage of more open habitats after 1·6 million years ago. Confrontational scavenging along with increased predation pressure may have contributed to the morphological changes associated with the shift to Homo erectus.
Urinary growth hormone in acromegaly.

. Urinary growth hormone compared to plasma growth hormone during peroral glucose tolerance test has been studied in 16 patients with clinically obvious acromegaly. The urinary excretion of growth hormone was clearly elevated in all patients with acromegaly when compared to a normal group. One of the patients with established acromegaly had normal fasting plasma growth hormone levels, but urinary growth hormone was grossly elevated. No significant correlation was found between plasma and urinary growth hormone in the individual patient. Neither plasma nor urinary growth hormone were well correlated to the clinical activity of the disease. It is concluded that measurement of urinary growth hormone is a valuable tool in the diagnosis of acromegaly. The measurement might be of special interest in the early period of acromegaly before the disfiguring changes have taken place in the patients.
Contemporary outcomes of complete atrioventricular septal defect repair: Analysis of the Society of Thoracic Surgeons Congenital Heart Surgery Database

Objective Contemporary outcomes data for complete atrioventricular septal defect (CAVSD) repair are limited. We sought to describe early outcomes of CAVSD repair across a large multicenter cohort, and explore potential associations with patient characteristics, including age, weight, and genetic syndromes. Methods Patients in the Society of Thoracic Surgeons Congenital Heart Surgery Database having repair of CAVSD (2008-2011) were included. Preoperative, operative, and outcomes data were described. Univariate associations between patient factors and outcomes were described. Results Of 2399 patients (101 centers), 78.4% had Down syndrome. Median age at surgery was 4.6 months (interquartile range, 3.5-6.1 months), with 11.8% (n = 284) aged ≤2.5 months. Median weight at surgery was 5.0 kg (interquartile range, 4.3-5.8 kg) with 6.3% (n = 151) Conclusions In a contemporary multicenter cohort, most patients with CAVSD have repair early in the first year of life. Prior pulmonary artery band is rare. Hospital mortality is generally low, although patients at extremes of low weight and younger age have worse outcomes. Mortality and major complication rates are lower in patients with Down syndrome.
Osteoarthritic tissues modulate functional properties of sensory neurons associated with symptomatic OA pain

Osteoarthritis (OA) is an age-related degenerative disease of cartilaginous tissues that is accompanied by hyperalgesia. Molecular cause and effect relationships between OA and pain remain to be elucidated. In this study, we have developed an experimental ex vivo organ co-culture system with dorsal root ganglia (DRGs) and knee synovial tissues from OA patients or unaffected human subjects. Our results suggest that tissues may generate symptomatic pain by altering the functional properties of sensory neurons. Specifically, we find that the expression levels of genes associated with neuronal pathways (e.g., SP, NK1, NK2, NPYR1, NPYR2, α2δ1) or inflammation (COX2/PTGS2 and IL6/interferon β2) are clearly elevated in DRG explants cultured in the presence of OA derived synovial tissues. These findings are consistent with a model in which cytokines and pain molecules produced by knee synovium sensitize nociceptive neurons in tissues peripheral to joint cartilage.
Lossless to Lossy Dual-Tree BEZW Compression for Hyperspectral Images

This paper proposes a lossless to lossy compression scheme for hyperspectral images based on dual-tree Binary Embedded Zerotree Wavelet (BEZW) algorithm. The algorithm adapts Karhunen-Loeve Transform and Discrete Wavelet Transform to achieve 3-D integer reversible hybrid transform and decorrelate spectral and spatial data. Since statistics of the hyperspectral image are not symmetrical, the asymmetrical dual-tree structure is introduced. The 3-D BEZW algorithm compresses hyperspectral images by implementing progressive bitplane coding. The lossless and lossy compression performance is compared with other state-of-the-art predictive coding and transform-based coding algorithms on Airborne Visible/Infrared Imaging Spectrometer images. Results show that the 3-D-BEZW lossless compression performance is comparable with the best predictive algorithms, while its computational cost is comparable with those of transform-based algorithms.
Rotational Analysis of the 210and 220Bands of the ã3B1←X1A1System of Jet-Cooled Silicon Difluoride

Abstract A combination least-squares and band contour analysis of the 2 1 0 and 2 2 0 bands of the laser-induced phosphorescence spectrum of the a 3 B 1 ←X 1 A 1 band system silicon difluoride, SiF 2 , has been completed. Spectra were taken under pyrolysis-jet conditions at a resolution of ca 0.04 cm −1 . The rotational ( A , B , C ), centrifugal distortion (Δ k ), spin–rotation ( a , a 0 ), and spin–spin (α, β) constants for the upper ν 2 state are reported. An effective r 0 structure has been calculated for each upper vibronic state. Some minor intensity anomalies have been observed in the spectra of both bands.
An Extended Examination of Preservice Elementary Teachers' Science Teaching Self‐Efficacy

The purpose of this study was to examine programmatic factors that positively impact changes in elementary preservice teachers' teaching self-efficacy beliefs. Specifically, it examined the impact of science methods courses, student teaching, and science content courses on elementary preservice teachers' science teaching self-efficacy. The Science Teaching Efficacy Belief Instrument Form B was administered, using a pre/post design, to undergraduate elementary education majors in specific education and science content courses. A total of 399 responses were collected, of which 172 had matching pre/post surveys suitable for analysis. Students in the science content courses and student teaching seminar showed no significant change in either the Personal Science Teaching Efficacy (PSTE) or the Science Teaching Outcome Expectancy scales during the time they were enrolled in the classes. Significant gains in PSTE were found for students enrolled in the science methods course. The specific design of the education program and methods course may be responsible for these changes.
A global health analysis project for baccalaureate nursing students

This article describes an international nursing/global health analysis project that is completed in the U.S. classroom by baccalaureate nursing students. Project requirements, student activities, and course evaluation are described. Over a semester, student groups in the senior-level issues course use multiple resources (libraries, embassies, Internet, and personal contacts) to gather and analyze nursing and health care data on a self-selected International Council of Nursing (ICN) member country. At the end of the semester, student's synthesized materials are presented to classmates. A portfolio of materials is submitted and kept on file for multiple uses by faculty and students.
Correlation of the absorption coefficient with a reduction in mean mass for dissolved organic matter in southwest Florida river plumes

Abstract Results are presented from an investigation of the relationship between molecular mass distribution and optical properties for colored dissolved organic matter (CDOM); a complex assembly of organic macromolecules of marine and freshwater origin found throughout the surface ocean. Unique data are derived from the application of a new technique, a combination of a hydrophilic–lipophilic copolymer-based solid phase extraction (SPE) with electrospray ionization (ESI) continuous flowing ion trap mass spectrometry (cf-MS), for the direct determination of CDOM mass distribution. An evaluation of this copolymer-based extraction technique for the analysis of Suwannee River Natural Organic Matter (SRNOM) reference material revealed that the current method compares favorably with C 18 modified silica or XAD resin-based extraction methods reported in the literature when considering extraction efficiency or low extraction bias for CDOM. The mass distribution of CDOM in several freshwater to marine transition zones along coastal southwestern Florida has been determined with this technique. All rivers in the study region had a bimodal distribution of masses. A case study of the Caloosahatchee River outflow CDOM mass distribution data are presented as an example of the modification in mass distributions. The lower mass mode of the bimodal distribution was observed to have a relatively stable mean throughout the study region at 406±9 Da, while decreasing in concentration in a non-conservative manner with salinity. In contrast, the upper mass mode of the bimodal distribution was observed to have a variable mean, reaching 1408 Da in the least saline waters and decreasing by 174 Da through the transect toward higher salinity coastal waters. Coinciding with this reduction in mean mass for the upper distribution is a non-conservative reduction in concentration when compared with salinity. We define apparent organic carbon (AOC) as a function of the cf-MS determined total integrated area and use this value to determine concentration of the total extracted CDOM. Unique correlations between the CDOM fluorescence (350-nm excitation/450-nm emission) and the AOC for these coastal samples have been observed for each of three rivers in the study region. The steepest slope and highest correlation between optical and mass spectral properties are observed in rivers with strongly absorbing waters originating in the Florida Everglades and lowest in rivers draining clearer waters from widely variable and anthropogenic influenced regions. The trends in molecular mass distribution and corresponding optical properties support the theory that CDOM in coastal zones is environmentally processed material from terrestrial sources. Probable cause of the reduction in mean mass and suggestions for further investigation of sources and transformations of CDOM are discussed.
Identification and Molecular Cloning of a Unique Hyaluronan Synthase from Pasteurella multocida

Type A Pasteurella multocida, a prevalent animal pathogen, employs a hyaluronan [HA] polysaccharide capsule to avoid host defenses. We utilized transposon insertional mutagenesis to identify the P. multocida HA synthase, the enzyme that polymerizes HA. A DNA fragment from a wild-type genomic library could direct HA production in vivo in Escherichia coli, a bacterium that normally does not produce HA. Analysis of truncated plasmids derived from the original clone indicated that an open reading frame encoding a 972-residue protein was responsible for HA polymerization. This identification was confirmed by expression cloning in E. coli; we observed HA capsule formation in vivo and detected activity in membrane preparations in vitro. The polypeptide size was verified by photoaffinity labeling of the native P. multocida HA synthase with azido-UDP sugar analogs. Overall, the P. multocida sequence is not very similar to the other known HA synthases from streptococci, PBCV-1 virus, or vertebrates. Instead, a portion of the central region of the new enzyme is more homologous to the amino termini of other bacterial glycosyltransferases that produce different capsular polysaccharides or lipopolysaccharides. In summary, we have discovered a unique HA synthase that differs in sequence and predicted topology from the other known enzymes.
No longer lost in translation.

Two in vivo real-time single molecule assays demonstrate that stochastic gene expression results in punctuated bursts of protein synthesis.
Atomic hydrogen propellants: Historical perspectives and future possibilities

Atomic hydrogen, a very high density free-radical propellant, is anticipated to generate a specific impulse of 600-1500 lb-f sec/lb-mass performance; this may facilitate the development of unique launch vehicles. A development status evaluation is presently given for atomic hydrogen investigations. It is noted that breakthroughs are required in the production, storage, and transfer of atomic hydrogen, before this fuel can become a viable rocket propellant.
Renewable biomass-derived lignin in transportation infrastructure strengthening applications

Lignin is considered as nature's most abundant aromatic polymer co-generated during papermaking and biomass fractionation. There are different types of lignins depending on the source (hardwood, softwood, annual crops, etc.) and recovery process. Recently, an emerging class of lignin products, namely sulphur-free lignins, from biomass conversion processes, solvent pulping and soda pulping, have generated interesting new applications owing to their versatility. As the renewable energy industry is expanding into developing the next generation of biofuels based on cellulosic biomass (e.g. corn stover, forest products waste, switch grass), abundant supply of sulphur-free lignin will become available as co-products for which value-added engineering applications are being sought. This paper discusses the potential for utilising lignin-containing biofuel co-products for stabilisation of geo-foundation beneath road pavements. Laboratory test results indicate that the biofuel co-products were effective in stabilis...
Effect of monopolar and bipolar electric stimulation on survival and size of human spiral ganglion cells as studied by postmortem histopathology

The spiral ganglion cell (SGC) is the target of electrical stimulation in cochlear implants. This study is designed to test the hypothesis that chronic electrical stimulation tends to preserve SGCs in implanted hearing-impaired ears. A total of 26 pairs of temporal bones were studied from 26 individuals who in life suffered bilateral profound hearing impairment that was symmetric (in degree of impairment and etiology) across ears and then underwent unilateral cochlear implantation. The subjects were divided in two groups by stimulus configuration: bipolar (n = 16) or monopolar (n = 10). The temporal bones were prepared for histological review by standard methods and two measures of SGC status were made by cochlear segment: count and maximal cross-sectional area. Within-subject comparison of the measures between the implanted-stimulated and the unimplanted ears showed: (1) for both stimulus configurations, the mean (across subjects and segments) of the count difference (implanted ear - unimplanted ear) was significantly less than zero; (2) the mean (across subject) count difference for cochlear segments I, II and III (segments with electrode contacts in the implanted ear) was significantly less negative than the mean difference for cochlear segment IV (no electrode in implanted ear) for bipolar but not for monopolar stimulation; (3) neither implantation-stimulation nor stimulus configuration significantly influenced the measures of maximum cross-sectional cell area. The SGC count results are consistent with the hypothesis that implantation results in a propensity across the whole cochlea for SGCs to degenerate and with chronic bipolar stimulation ameliorating this propensity in those cochlear segments with electrodes present.
Comparison between Effective Electrode/Electrolyte Interface Potential and Applied Potential for Gold Electrodes

A nonlinear solution of the Poisson−Boltzmann equation between two interacting surfaces was used to model the interaction force between a gold electrode and a standard silicon−nitride cantilever tip employed in atomic force microscopy (AFM). AFM measurements were used to calculate the effective gold electrode/electrolyte solution interface potential via minimization of the error between predicted interaction force values and those measured via AFM. Analysis of the data reveals that an effective electrode/electrolyte potential, rather than the applied potential to the electrode, is responsible for the interaction forces observed in this work. Further examination of the gold electrode/electrolyte interface via cyclic voltammetry reveals that, despite the fact that the gold electrode is considered inert, some degree of association of ions present in the solution with the gold electrode occurs. Accumulation of different ions in the solution at the electrode/electrolyte interface determines the magnitude of th...
Beam orientation optimization in intensity-modulated radiation treatment planning

Beam direction optimization is an important problem in radiation therapy. In intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), the difficulty for computer optimization of the beam directions arises from the fact that they are coupled with the intensity profiles of the incident beams. In order to obtain the optimal incident beam directions using iterative or stochastic methods, the beam profiles ought to be optimized after every change of beam configuration. In this paper we report an effective algorithm to optimize gantry angles for IMRT. In our calculation the gantry angles and the beam profiles (beamlet weights) were treated as two separate groups of variables. The gantry angles were sampled according to a simulated annealing algorithm. For each sampled beam configuration, beam profile calculation was done using a fast filtered backprojection (FBP) method. Simulated annealing was also used for beam profile optimization to examine the performance of the FBP for beam orientation optimization. Relative importance factors were incorporated into the objective function to control the relative importance of the target and the sensitive structures. Minimization of the objective function resulted in the best possible beam orientations and beam profiles judged by the given objective function. The algorithm was applied to several model problems and the results showed that the approach has potential for IMRT applications.
Policy coherence and policy domains

Policy scholars generally agree that greater coherence of policies is desirable, but the concept is under-theorized and has received little empirical examination. This research examines the policy coherence of 18 policy domains and considers institutional factors that affect variation among them. There is considerable variation in coherence among substantive, regional, and identity-based policy domains. Greater degrees of policy coherence exist for policy domains that have dominant congressional committees or have more involvement of lead federal agencies. These findings extend what policy scholars know about policy subsystems in American policymaking to consideration of the coherence of policy domains.
Support for student and staff wives in social transition in a university setting

Abstract This paper describes an university sponsored, professionally mediated self-help support program for wives of graduate students and staff members and discusses the rationale for its structure. First, we identify the kinds of problems these women have that make it difficult for them to adapt to their new surroundings. We then present the program as it now functions, together with reports on the wives' assessments of different features of the program. In the discussion that follows, we outline the problems of implementing and maintaining this kind of support program and suggest why self-help groups for this constituency need the active involvement of a professional familiar with the details of campus resources and social life. We also address the importance of locating that professional in a strategic place within the organization to be able to act on that knowledge.
Reinforcement of spatial perception for stereoscopic 3d on mobile handsets

In this paper, we propose reinforcement of spatial perception on stereoscopic 3D user interfaces. We design basic stereoscopic 3D components that can maximize reinforcement of spatial perception in user interfaces for mobile handsets. Prior works do not make sufficient use of the stereoscopic effect with autostereoscopic displays. We also investigate design methods that provide a comfortable 3D user interface on mobile handsets. Existing stereoscopic 3D technology focuses on entertainment value and emphasizes graphical effects. However, these 3D experiences require excessive parallax resulting in discomfort and visual fatigue. We propose basic design methods to reduce such negative effects. In this paper, we try to approach stereoscopic 3D not as a technology or a function, which was the case in previous examples, but as an additional spatial experience for the users, moving closely to the original meaning of 3D space.