cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Self-evaluation vs. direct anxiety reduction as determinants of the fear-affiliation relationship

Persons threatened by electric shock want to be with similarly threatened people. Schachter concluded that this was due to the subjects' desire for anxiety-reduction and for evaluation of their emotions by comparison with others. Seventy-eight female subjects were run in an experiment that sought to determine the relative strengths of the anxiety-reduction needs and emotional evaluation needs of a threatened subject. Each subject was given information about the initial emotional reactions of two other subjects (actually confederates of the experimenter) and then allowed to choose which of these other persons she wished to be with. The subject reported her initial fear reaction, then one of the confederates reported being slightly more afraid than the subject, while the other confederate reported being considerably calmer. High-Fear subjects chose to wait with the slightly more nervous confederate significantly more than did the Low-Fear control group (p < .01), indicating that emotional comparison was the relatively more important determinant of affiliation choice. An additional group of subjects heard the high-fear instructions and then received some information that could be interpreted as uncertainty producing. These subjects chose to wait alone or with the calmer confederate more than even the Low-Fear group (p < .05). This may indicate that, when subjects have the possibility of minimizing a fear provoking threat, they will make affiliation choices which will enable them to do so rather than choices dictated by needs for social comparison.
Proximal duplications of chromosome 15: clinical dilemmas.

Abstract The apparently rare cytogenetic abnormality of partial trisomy 15 was diagnosed by the authors in a patient presenting with developmental retardation, macrocephaly with ventricular enlargement and prominent subarachnoid spaces, hypotonia, low-set ears, hyperextensible wrists and hands, high arched palate, tapering fingers, right esotropia, and bilateral metatarsus adductus. Clinical findings in this case are similar to previously reported cases of proximal duplications of chromosome 15 and bear some similarity to the Prader-Willi syndrome. However, our patient did not have the severe hypotonia, early failure to thrive, or genital abnormalities seen in classical Prader-Willi syndrome. This case supports the theory that a variety of cytogenetic aberrations in proximal 15q can cause a "Prader-Willi-like" syndrome. Increased clinical suspicion is needed when patients are seen with hypotonia, retarded development and mild dysmorphism if the variety of phenotypes are to be delineated.
A complete mechanization of correctness of a string-preprocessing algorithm

We report on mechanization of a correctness proof of a string-preprocessing algorithm. This preprocessing algorithm is employed in Boyer-Moore's pattern matching algorithm. The mechanization is carried out using the PVS system. The correctness proof being mechanized has been formulated in Linear Time Temporal Logic. It consists of fourteen lemmata which are related to safety properties and two additional lemmata dealing with liveness properties. The entire mechanization of the safety and liveness parts has been completed. Several small errors and omissions were found in the handwritten proof and corrected. Yet, the manual correctness proof of the string-preprocessing algorithm was found to satisfy the usual mathematical validity. We conclude that the string-preprocessing algorithm in Boyer-Moore's pattern matching algorithm, corrected a number of times because of flaws, does not contain any more undiscovered errors.
Stromogenic prostatic carcinoma pattern (carcinomas with reactive stromal grade 3) in needle biopsies predicts biochemical recurrence-free survival in patients after radical prostatectomy.

We previously reported that reactive stromal grading in radical prostatectomies is a predictor of recurrence and that reactive stromal grading 0 and 3 are associated with lower biochemical recurrence-free survival rates than reactive stromal grading 1 and 2. We explored the prognostic significance of reactive stromal grading in preoperative needle biopsies. At Baylor College of Medicine, 224 cases of prostatic carcinoma were diagnosed by needle biopsy. Reactive stromal grading was evaluated on hematoxylin-eosin (HE grade 1, 6% to 15%; grade 2, 16% to 50%; grade 3, 51% to 100%, or at least a 1:1 ratio between glands and stroma. Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazard analyses were used. Reactive stromal grading distribution was as follows: reactive stromal grading 0, 1 case (0.5%); reactive stromal grading 1, 149 cases (66.5%); reactive stromal grading 2, 59 cases (26.3%); reactive stromal grading 3, 15 cases (6.7%). Reactive stromal grading in biopsies was correlated with adverse clinicopathologic parameters in the prostatectomy. Patients with reactive stromal grading 1 and 2 had better survival than those with 0 and 3 (P = .0034). Reactive stromal grading was an independent predictor of recurrence (hazard ratio = 1.953; P = .0174). Reactive stromal grading is independent of Gleason 4 + 3 and 3 + 4 in patients with a Gleason score of 7. Quantitation of reactive stroma and recognition of the stromogenic carcinoma in H&E-stained biopsies is useful to predict biochemical recurrence in prostate carcinoma patients independent of Gleason grade and prostate-specific antigen.
High power, narrow linewidth fiber lasers

Single transverse mode fiber lasers have recently achieved output powers at the kilowatt level. These breakthroughs can be attributed to the maturation of high power diode pump technology at 980 nm and the use of large mode area (LMA) fibers. In the continous wave (cw) operation regime, LMA fibers, through their reduction of device length and increase of the effective area, have been effective in the reduction of deleterious nonlinear optical effects such as stimulated Raman scattering (SRS). The use of LMA fiber has been less effective in the suppression of stimulated Brillouin scattering (SBS), for which the threshold can be several orders of magnitude lower than for SRS. In this work we use refractive index profiles and index modifying dopant distributions for the mitigation of SBS. Our theoretical and modeling efforts led to an experimentally demonstrated increase in SBS threshold of 2.5 dB for single mode fiber and 6 dB for LMA amplifier fiber. We discuss the use of this SBS-suppressive fiber in the demonstration of a high-power, narrow linewidth fiber amplifier.
Left Atrial Appendage Closure for Stroke Prevention in Atrial Fibrillation Response to an Unmet Need With an Unclear Direction

Stroke is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States. Atrial fibrillation (AF) increases the risk of ischemic stroke 5-fold.1 Strokes associated with AF are more severe when compared with non-AF strokes with a 30-day mortality of 25%.2 As such, a crucial component of AF management is stroke prevention. Oral anticoagulation therapy with warfarin effectively reduces the rate of stroke by 64% when compared with placebo and by 37% when compared with antiplatelet agents alone.3 Non–vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants have been shown to dramatically reduce the risk of intracranial hemorrhage when compared with warfarin and are guideline-sanctioned alternatives.4–6 However, similar or higher rates of gastrointestinal hemorrhage and medication adherence constitute longer term challenges with anticoagulant drugs. An alternative method of stroke prevention is needed for high-risk patients with refractory bleeding, untenable bleeding risk,7 or persistent medication nonadherence despite multiple interventions. Article see p 42 The rationale behind left atrial appendage (LAA) closure stems from the observation that among individuals in whom left atrial thrombus can be visualized, 90% are located in the LAA.8 The Watchman Left Atrial Appendage System for Embolic Protection in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation (PROTECT AF) trial demonstrated the device to be noninferior to warfarin for the primary efficacy end point comprised ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke, cardiovascular or unexplained death, or systemic embolism (3.0 for the device versus 4.9 for warfarin per 100 patient-years, rate ratio, 0.62; 95% confidence interval, 0.35–1.25).9,10 However, the trial had several limitations, …
Endoscopic approach to the infratemporal fossa: anatomic study.

Objective Classic surgical exposures of the infratemporal fossa region, including the adjacent intracranial space, temporal bone, and sinonasal region, require the extensive exposure associated with the transcranial, transfacial, and transmandibular approaches with their inherent neurological and cosmetic morbidities. In this study, we evaluated the feasibility and exposure afforded by combining 2 endoscopic transmaxillary approaches, endonasal and Caldwell-Luc supplement, to the infratemporal fossa. Methods Endoscopic transmaxillary dissection was performed in 4 formalin-fixed cadaver heads (8 sides). We quantified the extent of exposure achieved within the pterygopalatine and infratemporal fossae after our initial dissection, which was endonasal with a medial antrostomy, and after addition of a Caldwell-Luc incision with an anterior antrostomy. Complementing this anatomic study, we report on a patient in whom this endoscopic transmaxillary approach combining the endonasal and Caldwell-Luc approaches was used for resection of a trigeminal schwannoma in the infratemporal fossa. Results The combination of these 2 endoscopic transmaxillary approaches enabled visualization of the entire region of the pterygopalatine fossa and anteromedial aspect of the infratemporal fossa. Additional posterolateral exposure of the infratemporal fossa requires significant traumatic traction on the nose. Addition of the Caldwell-Luc transmaxillary approach exposed the remainder of the infratemporal fossa, including the mandibular nerve and branches, middle meningeal artery, and even the distal cervical portion of the internal carotid artery. Conclusion Endoscopic exposure of the infratemporal fossa is feasible. Using the combination of the endonasal and Caldwell-Luc approaches for direct transmaxillary access significantly extended exposure, allowing safe and effective resection of infratemporal fossa lesions.
Studies in the stereoselective trapping of prochiral carbon radicals by optically active camphoxyl nitroxides

Abstract Optically active camphoxyl nitroxides derived from camphene react with prochiral carbon radicals to give diastereomeric coupling products. The diastereomeric ratio can be conveniently measured by 1 H-NMR spectroscopy, in contrast to previous work employing steroidal nitroxides. The structure of the camphoxyl radical was modified; all couplings resulted in modest diastereoselectivity.
Achieving laser control of quantum phenomena: balancing computational and experimental capabilities

An increasing number of experiments have demonstrated that shaped laser pulses can successfully manipulate a broad variety of quantum phenomena. These achievements are drawing on a balance of computational design and high duty cycle closed loop learning control experiments. This paper will consider the special issues involved in best utilizing these capabilities to meet the control objectives. In addition, several topics in the analysis of controlled quantum phenomena will also be considered that draw on these same capabilities.
Surface Enhancement of Lanthanide Emission

We have examined the emission enhancement and radiative rate increases for lanthanide ions on silver island films. This approach has good potential as a reporter approach for biological assays, particularly using upconverting lanthanide chelates.
Ultraviolet polarimeter for characterization of an imaging spectrometer

M. Frank MorganRussell A. ChipmanDouglas G. TorrDepartment of PhysicsUniversity of Alabama in HuntsvilleHuntville, AL 35899ABSTRACTA polarilneter for characterization of the instrumental polarization of art imaging ultraviolet (UV) spectrorn-eter has been designed and calibrated. The spectrometer is a diffraction grating spectrograph and is thereforeexpected to show strong polarization effects. Since the spectrometer is used for observations of partially polarizedlight, we need to measure the sensitivity of the spectrometer to the polarization state of incident light. A dualrotating retarder polarimeter has been developed to address this need. The polarimeter includes a linear diatten-uator and a rotating retarder to control the polarization state of light entering the spectrometer, and a similarpair of elements to analyze the polarization state of light emerging from the instrument. With this polarimeterit is possible to measure the Mueller matrix of the spectrometer as a function of wavelength.In the course of calibrating the polarimeter, the quarter-wave retarders were observed to possess polariza-tion properties other than pure linear retardance. This forced the development of a complex procedure for thecalibration of the retarders and a new generalized approach to polarimetric analysis. These developments are themain subjects of this paper.1.
The role of the immune system in the pathogenesis of diabetic complications.

The main causes of morbidity and mortality in diabetes are macrovascular and microvascular complications. The pathogenesis of these complications is multifactorial, but there is strong evidence implicating chronic, smoldering, and inflammation as a main pathogenic event in the development of diabetic complications (1). Although the mechanisms responsible for vascular inflammation in diabetes are similar to those involved in vascular disease in non-diabetics (2), chronic hyperglycemia and dysregulated immune responses in diabetes are responsible for the activation of inflammatory circuits, inducing oxidative stress and promoting insulin resistance (1, 3), thus creating conditions that lead to the development of diabetes and diabetic complications. Changes in gene expression associated with diabetes like increased ICAM-1 expression (4) may also play a role in inducing inflammation and the development of diabetic complications.
Tensions in Multicultural Teacher Education Research: Demographics and the Need to Demonstrate Effectiveness

This article builds on the results of an analysis of reviews of data-based research literature in the field of multicultural teacher education. The author discusses two examples of major findings f...
Multifunctional ZnO/Nylon 6 nanofiber mats by an electrospinning-electrospraying hybrid process for use in protective applications.

ZnO/Nylon 6 nanofiber mats were prepared by an electrospinning–electrospraying hybrid process in which ZnO nanoparticles were dispersed on the surface of Nylon 6 nanofibers without becoming completely embedded. The prepared ZnO/Nylon 6 nanofiber mats were evaluated for their abilities to kill bacteria or inhibit their growth and to catalytically detoxify chemicals. Results showed that these ZnO/Nylon 6 nanofiber mats had excellent antibacterial efficiency (99.99%) against both the Gram-negative Escherichia coli and Gram-positive Bacillus cereus bacteria. In addition, they exhibited good detoxifying efficiency (95%) against paraoxon, a simulant of highly toxic chemicals. ZnO/Nylon 6 nanofiber mats were also deposited onto nylon/cotton woven fabrics and the nanofiber mats did not significantly affect the moisture vapor transmission rates and air permeability values of the fabrics. Therefore, ZnO/Nylon 6 nanofiber mats prepared by the electrospinning–electrospraying hybrid process are promising material candidates for protective applications.
RGD peptide-conjugated poly(dimethylsiloxane) promotes adhesion, proliferation, and collagen secretion of human fibroblasts

A novel technique for conjugating Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) peptides to poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) surfaces as well as its application to cell culture is presented in this paper. This technique performs RGD conjugation to PDMS through photochemical immobilization of functional NHS groups to PDMS surface followed with linking RGD peptide to the surface via coupling reaction with NHS. A bifunctional photolinker, N-sulfosuccinimidyl-6-(4'-azido-2'-nitrophenylamino)hexanoate (sulfo-SANPAH), was used to conjugate RGD peptide to the surface. Compared to existing methods for peptide conjugation to PDMS, this technique is convenient, efficient, and free of organic contamination to PDMS surfaces. It can also be used to conjugate other peptides or proteins to most polymeric materials. In addition, cell culture studies showed that the RGD-conjugated PDMS surfaces promoted the adhesion, proliferation, and collagen production of human skin fibroblasts (HSFs). Finally, the RGD-conjugated PDMS surfaces are resistant to autoclaving and UV irradiation, which enables them to be repeatedly used in cell culture studies.
Diagnosis of disseminated candidiasis in hospitalized patients using the Cand-Tec latex agglutination assay.

A total of 1,303 sera from 202 patients at risk for disseminated candidiasis were analyzed for the presence of Candida antigen using a commercially available latex agglutination test (Cand-Tec). Twentythree patients had disseminated candidiasis documented by positive blood cultures, deep biopsy culture and histopathology or autopsy. Six patients had transient candidemia, 15 patients had candiduria, 62 patients were not colonized yet treated empirically with amphotericin B, and 46 patients were not colonized and not treated with amphotericin B. The sensitivity and specificity of the Candida antigen test for the diagnosis of disseminated candidiasis was 87% and 36% (threshold titer of ⩾1∶2), 70% and 60% (⩾1∶4), and 30% and 85% (⩾1∶8), respectively. In contrast to previous studies we were unable to demonstrate a prognostic role for the Candida antigen test in patients with documented disseminated candidiasis. The lack of sensitivity and specificity of the Cand-Tec Candida antigen test precludes its use in the diagnosis of disseminated candidiasis.
A biobehavioral intervention improved caregiver well-being and some measures of functioning in patients with dementia

Source Citation Gitlin LN, Winter L, Dennis MP, Hodgson N, Hauck WW. A biobehavioral home-based intervention and the well-being of patients with dementia and their caregivers: the COPE randomized t...
Methodology for examining potential technology breakthroughs for mitigating CO 2 and application to centralized solar photovoltaics

Aggressive reductions in US greenhouse gas emissions will require radical changes in how society generates and uses energy. Technological breakthroughs will be necessary if we are to make this transition cost effectively. With limited resources, understanding the breakthrough potential of various alternative technology options will be critical. One common approach for comparing technology options is via their relative levelized cost of electricity. This measure does not account for many of the complexities of the landscape in which the technologies compete, however. As an alternative, we describe the use of an energy system model within a nested parametric sensitivity analysis. The approach is applied to examine the breakthrough potential of a specific class of technology, centralized solar photovoltaics (CSPV). We define a “breakthrough” as being a tangible reduction in the system-wide cost of meeting a CO2 mitigation target. As “tangible” is a subjective term, we characterize the relationship between technology cost reductions and system-wide cost reductions for several mitigation targets. The results illustrate the importance of considering contextual factors in evaluating and comparing technologies. For example, the critical role that fuel switching and vehicle electrification play in mitigation scenarios is shown to affect the competition between CSPV and baseload technologies for market share. This breakthrough analysis approach can be applied to other technologies and is expected to be useful in assessing and comparing breakthrough opportunities across the energy system, including both energy production and use.
Suppression of hyperoxic convulsions by nitrogen at high pressure.

SummaryThe time of onset and severity of convulsions was observed in 3 groups of mice exposed to 90 psi of oxygen, the first receiving the oxygen alone, the second 400 psi of helium plus oxygen and the third 400 psi of nitrogen plus oxygen. All the animals in groups one and two convulsed within 15 minutes of exposure to oxygen at this pressure but in the third group much less violent seizures appeared in only 23% of the mice and were delayed 44% in time of onset. Voluntary movements and postural reflexes were not seriously disturbed by this pressure of nitrogen.
Thoracoscopic Approaches to the Thoracic Spine

Microsurgical approaches for the treatment of pathology located in the ventral thoracic spine using video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) allow neurosurgeons to access the disc spaces, vertebral bodies, paravertebral soft tissues, spinal cord, spinal nerves, and sympathetic chain with minimally invasive surgery. This has been associated with substantial clinical benefits including reduced postoperative pain, lower complication rates and shorter recovery times when compared with standard thoracotomy techniques. This article describes the experience at our institution with VATS for discectomy (20 cases), corpectomy and spinal reconstruction (8 cases), thoracic sympathectomy (3 cases), and nerve sheath tumor removal (1 case). The technique can be mastered but requires surgeons to learn the new psychomotor skills needed to perform endoscopic spine surgery. The learning curve is steep. Special training in instructional seminars, surgical skill laboratories, and clinical preceptorships is needed before this surgical approach can be used clinically to treat spinal pathology. VATS has significant advantages compared to standard thoracotomy, including reduced incisional pain and avoidance of the postthoracotomy pain syndrome. If intercostal neuralgia develops postoperatively, it is milder and usually transient compared to the pain associated with standard thoracotomy. Better cosmetic outcomes, earlier mobilization, and faster recovery are added benefits. The surgical techniques are relatively new for neurosurgeons and require dedicated practice to master them. Once the surgical skills are perfected, VATS is feasible for spinal pathology and can be performed safely and effectively.
Kinematic significance of sediment-filled fissures in the North Mountain Basalt, Fundy rift basin, Nova Scotia, Canada

Abstract Numerous sediment-filled fissures are present near the upper surface of the North Mountain Basalt (~202 Ma) of the Fundy basin, which formed during Triassic-Jurassic rifting. The fissures are infilled with the same clastic material comprising the basal parts of the overlying earliest Jurassic-age sedimentary formations, which accumulated less than 200 k y after the cooling of the basalt. Nearly all of the 1368 fissures measured in this study are planar to sub-planar and are sub-vertical (after correcting the basalt flows to paleo-horizontal). The fissures typically formed along preexisting columnar joints within the basalt. Northeast-striking fissures generally define a preferred orientation and commonly are wider than other fissures. The sediment-filled fissures therefore indicate earliest Jurassic-age NW-SE extension. This extension direction is consistent with that indicated by the NE-striking Shelburne diabase dike, the attitude of mesoscopic faults, and the geometry of the Fundy rift basin. Thus, sediment-filled fissures by themselves can serve as useful kinematic indicators and place tight constraints on the relative timing of extension.
The effect of Brugia pahangi infection on survival of susceptible and refractory species of the Aedes scutellaris complex.

. . Life table statistics were used to examine the survival functions of filarial susceptible and refractory species of the Aedes scutellaris (Walker) group of mosquitoes, following infection with high and moderate doses of Brugia pahangi (Buckley & Edeson). Survivorship curves and hazard function curves were generated, and the median survival times and the proportions of mosquitoes surviving beyond the extrinsic incubation period of the parasite were determined. In the susceptible populations of Aedes polynesiensis Marks, Ae.pseudo-scutellaris (Theobald) and Ae. tabu Ramalingam & Belkin a dose-response relationship was detected between parasite load and mortality. This relationship was characterized by a significant reduction in the proportions of infected female mosquitoes surviving at days 1 and 9 postinfection, reduction in the median survival times and an increase in the hazard rates as the infectious dose increased. The survival of the refractory species, Ae.alcasidi Huang and Ae.katherinensis Woodhill was not significantly affected by the infection. A positive correlation between microfilaraemia in the vertebrate host and parasite load in the susceptible mosquito populations was also observed. Regression analysis of the number of parasites recovered from susceptible mosquitoes at the time of death showed that mosquitoes at highest risk of dying harboured from 11.6 to 19.4 infective larvae when fed on a gerbil with sixty-five microfilariae per 20,μl blood; this resulted in 34.4–40.2% mortality by day 9 postinfection. A mean number of 32.6–46.9 infective larvae was observed when these populations were exposed to a gerbil with a microfilaraemia of 150 mf/20 μl and resulted in 72.8% to 80% mortality in these populations. Viable infective larvae were recovered from infected mosquitoes up to 50 days postinfection.
Analysis and optimization of the edge effect for III–V nanowire synthesis via selective area metal-organic chemical vapor deposition

Selective Area Metal-Organic Chemical Vapor Deposition (SA-MOCVD) is a promising technique for the scale-up of nanowire fabrication. Our previous study investigated the growth mechanism of SA-MOCVD processes by quantifying contributions from various diffusion sources. However, the edge effect on nanostructure uniformity captured by skirt area diffusion was not quantitatively analyzed. This work further improves our understanding of the process by considering the edge effect as a superposition of skirt area diffusion and “blocking effect” and optimizing the edge effect for uniformity control of nanowire growth. We directly model the blocking effect of nanowires in the process of precursor diffusion from the skirt area to the center of a substrate. The improved model closely captures the distribution of the nanowire length across the substrate. Physical interpretation of the edge effect is provided. With the established model, we provide a method to optimize the width of the skirt area to improve the predic...
Sex differences in spatial ability in children.

There is considerable evidence that sex differences in spatial ability exist in adults, with males outperforming females at every age after puberty. It is difficult, however, to find sex differences in children younger than 13. This is due in part to the lack of adequate measures of spatial ability for use with children. We report the use of spatial tests for children that are similar to those that have shown large sex differences in adults and may be measuring ability comparable to adult spatial ability. Four tests of mental rotation and spatial visualization were given to two samples of children. The first sample consisted of 81 children (39 males and 42 females) aged 9 to 12 years. The second sample consisted of 42 children (21 males and 21 females) aged 9 to 13 years. Sex differences of .4-.6 standard deviations were found on three tests in both samples. These results indicate that sex differences in spatial ability can be found in preadolescents if appropriate tests are used. Measurement of these abilities in children facilitates the investigation of possible biological and sociocultural contributors to the sex differences in spatial ability.
Hybrid interferometric structured light method for surface mapping

In order to effectively map fine surface structure ranging from surface finish at the sub-micron level to surface defects which can be millimeter size, methods are needed that can provide sub-micron resolution, but also have sufficient measurement range to see much larger features In the past, this nitch has been addressed with the use of white light interferometry that can be mechanically scanned in depth to provide mappings of structures on a very fine scale. However, such methods are limited to lab situations due to stability requirements, and are not fast enough to be used for a shop floor decision. We propose a system that uses a hybrid of classical laser interferometry for the fine structure, but adds in phase shifted structured light for a coarser measurement within the same data set. We will explore the pros and cons of this approach, and the limitations on the overall system imposed by each method.
γ-Aminobutyric Acid, a Neurotransmitter, Induces Planktonic Abalone Larvae to Settle and Begin Metamorphosis

gamma-Aminobutyric acid (a simple amino acid and potent neurotransmitter in human brain and other tissues of higher animals) and certain of its congeners rapidly and synchronously induce planktonic larvae of the red abalone, Haliotis rufescens, to settle and commence behavioral and developmental metamorphosis. These naturally occurring inducers of algal origin apparently are responsible, in part, for the substrate-specific recruitment, induction of settling, and the onset of metamorphosis of abalone and other planktonic larvae upon specific algae which provide naturally favorable habitats for the young of these species in coastal waters. These observations provide a convenient experimental model for further analysis of the basic molecular mechanisms by which environmental and endogenous factors control the recruitment and development of planktonic larvae. Halogenated organic pesticides significantly interfere with larval settling, as quantified in a new bioassay based upon these findings.
Modeling of the Backlash Hysteresis Nonlinearity

In this paper, the backlash hysteresis nonlinearity is examined, and a mathematical model based on the particular behavior of the backlash is developed. A geometrical interpretation of this model using switching operators is provided to facilitate an understanding of it. Simulation of output prediction of the backlash mechanism using an arbitrary input signal is performed to verify the correctness of the developed model. A linearization scheme based on the model is also developed to compensate for the backlash nonlinearity. The scheme was applied for tracking an arbitrary signal similar to that used in the modeling. The results show that our model-based linearization scheme although running in an open loop fashion, provides a simpler way to perform tracking control for structures with backlash hysteresis nonlinearity.
Assessment of a Human Cadaver Model for Training Emergency Medicine Residents in the Ultrasound Diagnosis of Pneumothorax

Objectives. To assess a human cadaver model for training emergency medicine residents in the ultrasound diagnosis of pneumothorax. Methods. Single-blinded observational study using a human cadaveric model at an academic medical center. Three lightly embalmed cadavers were used to create three “normal lungs” and three lungs modeling a “pneumothorax.” The residents were blinded to the side and number of pneumothoraces, as well as to each other’s findings. Each resident performed an ultrasound examination on all six lung models during ventilation of cadavers. They were evaluated on their ability to identify the presence or absence of the sliding-lung sign and seashore sign. Results. A total of 84 ultrasound examinations (42-“normal lung,” 42-“pneumothorax”) were performed. A sliding-lung sign was accurately identified in 39 scans, and the seashore sign was accurately identified in 34 scans. The sensitivity and specificity for the sliding-lung sign were 93% (95% CI, 85–100%) and 90% (95% CI, 81–99%), respectively. The sensitivity and specificity for the seashore sign were 80% (95% CI, 68–92%) and 83% (95% CI, 72–94%), respectively. Conclusions. Lightly embalmed human cadavers may provide an excellent model for mimicking the sonographic appearance of pneumothorax.
Sawtooth waves: Concomitants of rapid eye movement sleep in monkeys

Sawtooth waves, 2--3 c/sec activity of at least 40 micro V, occurred primarily during clusters of REMs in stump-tailed macaques. On the average the activity began well after the onset of REMs but occasionally occurred soon before or immediately after a cluster of REMs. The activity was clearly defined but occupied less than 0.6% of an 8-h sleep record. A sawtooth burst was, on the average, 7.5 sec in duration.
Sur-i Israfil in Exile: Modern Definitions of Monarchy

After the bombardment of the Majlis in June of 1908, several Iranian constitutionalists were forced into exile—if not arrested and persecuted. An influential group of these constitutionalists continued the publication of the Persian paper Sur-i Israfil in exile, in Yverdon, Switzerland, explicitly opposing the monarch, Mohammad Ali Shah Qajar. This article examines the ways and means by which the exiled constitutionalists, in their writings, challenged the monarch and the previously indisputable office of monarchy, and how they proposed to re-define the institution of monarchy. Paradoxically, their marginal setting, writing from European exile, far away from the Iranian borders, did not preclude them from expressing views that were influential in shaping the modern political culture of Iran.
Divalent cation binding to chloroplast membranes and its relationship to reversal of quaternary ammonium salt uncoupling of photophosphorylation

Abstract In order to elucidate the mechanism by which divalent cations such as Mn 2+ reverse the uncoupling effects of zwitterionic buffers such as tricine and quaternary ammonium salts such as tetraethylammonium chloride (TEA), a study was made of the interaction between manganese ions and the chloroplast membrane. It was found that the chloroplast membrane binds manganese ions to the extent of 0.4–0.6 μmoles/mg chlorophyll in the dark with a dissociation constant of 6.7 μ m , which corresponds very well to the concentration required for half-maximal reversal of tricine uncoupling. Manganese was displaced from the chloroplasts by the uncouplers choline and TEA as well as by other agents such as Na + , K + , Mg 2+ , Ca 2+ or Zn 2+ which reverse TEA uncoupling. Displacement of Mn 2+ ions by TEA and K + was noncompetitive suggesting that they do not bind to the same sites as manganese. On the other hand, displacement by Zn 2+ was competitive suggesting that Mn 2+ and Zn 2+ act at the same sites. Light had no effect on manganese binding indicating that binding, not light-induced transport, is responsible for the recoupling effects.
Using the metabolism of PAHs in a human cell line to characterize environmental samples

P450 reporter gene system (RGS) is an in vitro assay to detect compounds that activate the Ah receptor and induce cytochrome P450 (CYP1A1). This system utilizes a human cell (101L) stably transfected with a luciferase reporter downstream of human CYP1A1 promoter sequences. When CYP1A1-inducing compounds are present, luciferase is produced as well as endogenous CYP1A1 enzymes. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are more readily degraded than chlorinated compounds including dioxins, furans, and coplanar polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). PAH-induced luciferase production begins to decrease between 6 and 16 h, while chlorinated compounds produce a more sustained response. Individual and mixtures of CYP1A1-inducing compounds were tested at both 6 and 16 h. Extracts of soils containing both PAHs and dioxins were also tested, before and after cleanup to remove PAHs. Results indicate that RGS testing at 6 and 16 h is a promising tool to differentiate between PAHs and chlorinated hydrocarbons often co-occurring in environmental samples.
Initial results of the use of a drug‐interaction system

Dentists' knowledge about drug interactions, particularly in medically compromised older patients, may not be adequate. An on-line drug interaction system was tested for 4 months in a dental clinic to ascertain its usefulness in training students. Characteristics of high-risk patients are described, as well as opinions of users about the applicability of information presented and its relation to patient care. Approximately 3% of the patients seen were at risk of trauma from drug interactions, half of which were considered likely to occur. Implications of drug interaction data are also discussed in relation to treatment planning.
Effect of shape, size, and periodicity variations on extraordinary thransmission through symmetric hole arrays in a 4 pair metallo-dielectric tuned metamaterial

We show the effects of hole shape, size, and periodicity variation on extraordinary transmission through a tuned metamaterial of 4 pairs of alternating layers of Ag-Al 2 O 3 with 20 nm thicknesses under illumination of TM light. The advantage of a metamaterial over a Ag film of similar thickness is the tunability of the surface plasmons coupling k-vector. Because their cross sections appear the same in fourier space, incident TM light sees the same structure for circular, square, and rectangular holes transmission is unaffected by these shape variations. Further, as we increase the hole size, the transmission does not exhibit the expected enhancement as both the 250 nm and 150 nm diameter holes are both too small to have their maxima overlap with the tuned transmission enhancement of the metamaterial. For the metamaterial, we are able to tune it to support surface plasmons from periodicities ranging from 130 nm to 215 nm, which effectively shifts the transmission peaks from the blue end of the spectrum in Ag films across the visible and into the red.
Combining tissue extraction and off-line capillary electrophoresis matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization Fourier transform mass spectrometry for neuropeptide analysis in individual neuronal organs using 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid as a multi-functional agent

In this study we report an improved protocol that combines simplified sample preparation and micro-scale separation for mass spectrometric analysis of neuropeptides from individual neuroendocrine organs of crab Cancer borealis. A simple, one-step extraction method with commonly used matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) matrix, 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid (DHB), in saturated aqueous solution, is employed for improved extraction of neuropeptides. Furthermore, a novel use of DHB as background electrolyte for capillary electrophoresis (CE) separation in the off-line coupling of CE to MALDI-Fourier transform mass spectrometric (FT-MS) detection is also explored. The new CE electrolyte exhibits full compatibility with MALDI-MS analysis of neuropeptides in that both the peptide extraction process and MALDI detection utilize DHB. In addition, enhanced resolving power and improved sensitivity are also observed for CE-MALDI-MS of peptide mixture analysis. Collectively, the use of DHB has simplified the extraction and reduced the sample loss by elimination of homogenizing, drying, and desalting processes. In the mean time, the concurrent use of DHB as CE separation buffer and subsequent MALDI matrix offers improved spectral quality by eliminating the interferences from typical CE electrolyte in MALDI detection.
High frequency ventilation: Basic concepts and clinical application

High frequency ventilation (HFV) is a mode of therapy that improves gas exchange with pressure fluctuations much lower than that required for conventional ventilation. HFV is efficacious in the ‘rescue’ management of infants with respiratory failure. Although each HFV system has functional characteristics that are design related, it now appears that when used with similar treatment strategies and within functional limitations, similar outcomes can be achieved. Ideally, the clinician or the operator should be familiar with the basic concepts of different high frequency ventilators to achieve maximal benefits from using these devices in infants with respiratory failure.
Targeted chemotherapy with cytotoxic bombesin analogue AN-215 can overcome chemoresistance in experimental renal cell carcinomas

BACKGROUND Multidrug resistance (MDR) mediated by membrane transporters, such as P-glycoprotein (MDR-1) and MDR-associated protein (MRP), remains a challenge in the therapy of renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Chemotherapy targeted to hormone receptors may provide a new approach to overcome chemoresistance. The cytotoxic analogue of bombesin/gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP), AN-215, consists of a superactive derivative of doxorubicin, AN-201, which is linked to a bombesin analogue carrier: RC-3094. METHODS The authors examined the expression of bombesin/GRP receptors in 3 human RCC cell lines (A-498, ACHN. and 786-0) by using reverse-transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis and radioligand-binding assays. They also evaluated the effects of AN-215 and its cytotoxic radical AN-201 in the same RCC models in vivo, and they studied the effects of AN-215 and AN-201 on the expression levels of MDR-1 and subtype 1 of MRP (MRP-1) by using real-time PCR. RESULTS A N-215 significantly (P < 0.05) inhibited the growth of A-498, ACHN, and 786-0 RCC xenografted into nude mice by 59.2–67.6%, whereas the cytotoxic radical AN-201 alone had no significant antitumor effects. The efficacy of AN-215 was independent of the expression patterns of MDR-1 and MRP-1 in these RCC cell lines. The induction of MDR-1 by AN-215 was similar (Experiment 2) or weaker (Experiment 1) compared with AN-201. Both AN-215 and AN-201 caused only a minor induction of MRP-1. CONCLUSIONS The current findings indicated that targeted chemotherapy with cytotoxic bombesin/GRP analogue AN-215 can inhibit the growth of RCC, providing a new treatment modality for patients with advanced RCC. Cancer 2005. © 2005 American Cancer Society.
USE OF SPEECH-MODULATED NOISE ADDS STRONG BOTTOM-UP CUES FOR PHONEMIC RESTORATION

When deleted segments of speech are replaced by extraneous sounds rather than silence, the missing speech fragments may be perceptually restored and intelligibility improved. This phonemic restoration (PhR) effect has been used to measure various aspects of speech processing, with deleted portions of speech typically being replaced by stochastic noise. However, several recent studies of PhR have used speech-modulated noise, which may provide amplitude-envelope cues concerning the replaced speech. The present study compared the effects upon intelligibility of replacing regularly spaced portions of speech with stochastic (white) noise versus speech-modulated noise. In Experiment 1, filling periodic gaps in sentences with noise modulated by the amplitude envelope of the deleted speech fragments produced twice the intelligibility increase obtained with interpolated stochastic noise. Moreover, when lists of isolated monosyllables were interrupted in Experiment 2, interpolation of speech-modulated noise increased intelligibility whereas stochastic noise reduced intelligibility. The augmentation of PhR produced by modulated noise appeared without practice, suggesting that speech processing normally involves not only a narrowband analysis of spectral information but also a wideband integration of amplitude levels across critical bands. This is of considerable theoretical interest, but it also suggests that since PhRs produced by speech-modulated noise utilize potent bottom-up cues provided by the noise, they differ from the PhRs produced by extraneous sounds, such as coughs and stochastic noise.
Temporal XML? SQL strikes back!

While the introduction of temporal extensions into database standards has proven difficult to achieve, the newly introduced SQL:2003 and XML/XQuery standards have actually enhanced our ability to support temporal applications in commercial database systems. We illustrate this point by discussing three approaches that use temporally grouped representations. We first compare the approaches at the logical level using a common set of queries; then we turn to the physical level and discuss our ArchIS system that supports the three different approaches efficiently in one unified physical implementation. We conclude that the approaches of managing transaction-time information using XML and SQL can be integrated and supported efficiently within the current standards, and claim that the proposed approach can be extended to valid-time and bitemporal databases.
Neuropathology of Pick’s disease

The author reviews the gross, microscopic, and biochemical pathology associated with classic Pick's disease, as defined by Constantinidis' Type A Pick's disease. This is contrasted with other Pick's disease subtypes, including Constantinidis' Type B (corticobasal degeneration) and Type C (dementia lacking distinctive histology).
Harmonic analysis of slip-power recovery drives

A method of evaluating harmonic currents and voltages associated with slip power recovery drives is presented. The rectifier commutation overlap and DC link current ripple are included in the analysis by using a hybrid between the traditional d-q and a-b-c induction motor models. The harmonic components are determined from closed-form expressions which are functions of the numerical values of the distorted waveforms. Computer simulations illustrate the nonperiodic nature of the stator currents and typical harmonic contents of rotor phase current and voltage as well as inverter current at various speed values. >
Microfabricated grooves recapitulate neonatal myocyte connexin43 and N-cadherin expression and localization

Our objective is to alter the surface topography on which cardiac myocytes are grown in culture so that they more closely resemble their in vivo counterparts. Microtextured silicone substrata were made using photolithography and microfabrication techniques and then coated with laminin. Primary cardiac myocytes from newborn rats were plated on microgrooved and nontextured substrata. Myocytes were highly oriented on 5 microm grooves (69.8 +/- 2.0%) and significantly different, p < 0.0001, compared with randomly oriented cells grown on nontextured surfaces (2.9 +/- 0.95%; n = 19). Cells on shallower, 2 microm, grooves were slightly less well oriented (46.9 +/- 4.3%, n = 5, p < 0.001). The lateral spacings of the grooves were altered to examine changes in cell-to-cell contact by confocal immunocytochemistry and quantitative protein analysis. Connexin43 and N-cadherin were distributed around the perimeter of the myocytes plated on 10 x 5 x 5 microgrooved surfaces, similar to the localization found in the neonate. Connexin43 expression in cultures on 5 microm deep grooved substrata was equal to the neonatal heart, whereas it differed in nontextured surfaces. We conclude that it is necessary to combine groove depth (5 microm) and lateral ridge dimensions between grooves (5 microm) in order to recapitulate connexin43 and N-cadherin expression levels and subcellular localization to that of the neonate.
Fundamental Materials-Issues involved in the Growth of GaN by Molecular Beam Epitaxy

Gallium nitride is one of the most promising materials for ultraviolet and blue light-emitting diodes and lasers. Both Molecular Beam Epitaxy (MBE) and Metal-Organic Chemical Vapor Deposition (MOCVD) have recently made strong progress in fabricating high-quality epitaxial GaN thin films. In this paper, we review materials-related issues involved in MBE growth. We show that a strong understanding of the unique meta-stable growth process allows us to correctly predict the optimum conditions for epitaxial GaN growth. The resulting structural, electronic and optical properties of the GaN films are described in detail.
The estimator-correlator for discrete-time problems

A class of discrete-time detection problems is formulated and a general recursive formula for the likelihood ratio is obtained. The result is analogous to the general likelihood-ratio formula or "estimator-correlator" receiver which has been derived in continuous time for a number of detection problems. As in the continuous-time versions, a conditional-mean estimate again plays a central role in the receiver structure.