cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Improved IRRAS Apparatus for Studies of Aqueous Monolayer Films: Determination of the Orientation of Each Chain in a Fatty-Acid Homogeneous Ceramide 2

The performance of a new accessory for measuring IR reflection-absorption (IRRAS) spectra at various angles of incidence from monolayer films of lipids is demonstrated. The device is comprised of an external variable angle reflectance accessory and a self-contained computer-controlled unit for varying the angle of incidence, both units being coupled to a custom-designed Langmuir trough. This combination provides for excellent experimental precision and reduction of interference from H2O vapor in the 1500-1800 cm-1 spectral region. A set of ~20 s- and p-polarized IRRAS spectra over a range of angles of incidence from 25° to 70° may be acquired from a single monolayer film in ~3 h. The performance of the device is demonstrated for two lipids as follows. First, the instrument precision is demonstrated through determination of the orientation of each of the chains in a fatty acid homogeneous ceramide 2 derivative. Interestingly, the orientation (tilt angles from the bilayer normal) of the individual chains differ, as determined from an isotopically-labeled derivative where the fatty acid chain is perdeuterated. The fatty acid chain is tilted at 24° from the normal to the bilayer, while the base chain is tilted at 18°. As a control, the average tilt angle for both ceramide 2 acyl chains has been determined from a fully proteated derivative to be 20°. The precision of the derived tilt angle varies from ~1-3°. Second, the reduction of interference from water vapor in the 1500-1800 cm-1 is demonstrated for sn-2-13C = O-1,2 distearoylphosphatidylcholine, where spectra from the individual C = O bonds in the molecule are readily detected with good signal/noise and signal/water vapor ratios. The device provides a major advance in the determination of chain orientation by IRRAS and will facilitate the determination of functional group orientation.
Opiate effects on rabbit vagus nerve: Electrophysiology and radioligand binding☆

Abstract Intracellular recordings were made from rabbit nodose ganglion cells in vitro. Morphine (up to 100 μM), normorphine (up to 10 μM) and d -Ala2, Leu5-enkephalin (DADLE) (up to 5 μM) each had no detectable effect on the electrical properties of the cell membrane, except for local anesthetic-like actions at the highest concentrations which were not reversed by naloxone. Extracellular recordings were made from the infranodose vagus nerve in vitro using a sucrose gap method. No effects of morphine, normorphine or DADLE were detected on the resting potential, compound action potential or compound action potential enhanced by barium or tetraethylammonium. Moderate levels of stereospecific binding of tritiated dihydromorphine and DADLE were detected in both the nodose ganglion and vagus nerve. It is surmised that the radioligand binding sites on the nodose ganglion and vagus nerve are not functionally linked to detectable electrophysiological effects.
Cell polarization mechanisms during directed cell migration

How cells establish and maintain polarity during directed cell migration remains poorly understood. Nishiya et al. now describe an integrin signalling complex that includes paxillin and GIT1, which limits activation of Rac to the leading edge of a migrating cell.
Robust control of a flexible space structure in the presence of parameter variations and unmodelled dynamics

The control of a flexible truss structure is discussed with respect to robustness against parameter uncertainty and high frequency unmodelled dynamics. Emphasis is placed upon providing vibration suppression and improving system damping in the presence of these uncertainties. A robust control design is achieved by simultaneously constraining both the linear quadratic Gaussian (LQG) performance index and the H∞ norm of a specific disturbance transfer matrix. Closed loop simulation is then performed to determine the effectiveness of the control design.
Modeling of highly anisotropic crust and application to the Altiplano-Puna volcanic complex of the central Andes

[1] The Altiplano-Puna volcanic complex (APVC) is located in the central Andes and covers an area over 50,000 km2. The style of volcanism is predominately caldera-forming ignimbrite eruptions active between 10 and 1 Ma. Chmielowski et al. [1999] used teleseismic events, recorded from seven portable broadband seismic stations deployed in the APVC, to identify a 1-km-thick very low-velocity zone at a depth of 19 km. Based on the correlation with surface volcanics, the extremely low shear velocities of 1 km/s or less, and the depth of the layer, the low-velocity zone was interpreted to be a “magma body.” Using local events recorded during the same seismic deployment, we have improved the crustal model for the APVC and detected seismic anisotropy in the crust above the low-velocity zone. Using a hexagonal symmetry anisotropy code, we computed synthetic receiver functions for many models of layered anisotropic media and found two different models consistent with the data. In both models, approximately 20–30% anisotropy is present in a 3-km-thick surface low-velocity layer, and 15–20% anisotropy is present in the remaining crust above the buried low-velocity zone. The first model has the 1-km-thick low-velocity zone at 17 km, while the alternate model has the low-velocity zone at 14-km depth overlain by a 4-km-thick transition zone of intermediate velocities. This anisotropy may be due to the fracture system by which magma migrates to the surface from the midcrustal sill-like magma body.
High affinity uptake by isolated rat hepatocytes of a linear pseudo-hexapeptide, ditekiren.

Abstract The hepatic elimination of many oligopeptides is both rapid and extensive, and often limits their potential as therapeutic agents. The linear, hydrophobic pseudo-hexapeptide ditekiren, a renin inhibitor, is one such example. The mechanism(s) involved in its hepatic clearance are largely unknown; accordingly, the characteristics of ditekiren's transport into isolated rat hepatocytes was investigated. In addition to a concentration-independent, linear process, uptake also involved a carrier-mediated component (Km=0.2±0.05 μM; Vmax=11.6±0.6 pmol (mg protein)−1 min−1). Phenobarbital pretreatment in vivo resulted in marked induction of such transport. Negative results from cis-inhibition studies with substrates and/or inhibitors of well-established hepatic transport systems, e.g., sodium-dependent bile acid, sodium-independent multispecific bile acid and cation carriers, ruled out their involvement in ditekiren's uptake. By contrast, a number of cyclic and linear oligopeptides inhibited the uptake process to varying extents and in the case of EMD-59121, the most inhibitory compound, the interaction was competitive in nature. Collectively, these data suggest the presence of a novel high affinity, low capacity transporter in rat hepatocytes with specific affinity for ditekiren and possibly other oligopeptides.
Normalization of serum testosterone levels in patients treated with neoadjuvant hormonal therapy and three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy for prostate cancer.

Abstract Purpose: To determine the expected time to serum testosterone normalization after short-course neoadjuvant androgen deprivation therapy (NAAD) and three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy for patients with localized prostate cancer and to identify pretreatment predictors that correlated with the time to testosterone normalization. Methods: Between 1993 and 1999, 88 patients with localized prostate cancer, treated with NAAD and external beam radiotherapy, were prospectively monitored after treatment with sequential testosterone levels. NAAD was administered before and during the entire course of radiotherapy and discontinued at the end of treatment. The median duration of NAAD was 6 months. The actuarial rate of serum testosterone normalization from the end of treatment was evaluated, and the presence or absence of androgen deprivation-related symptoms was correlated with serum testosterone levels. Symptoms assessed included weight gain, loss of libido, breast tenderness, breast enlargement, hot flashes, and fatigue. Results: Serum testosterone levels returned to the normal range in 57 (65%) of the 88 patients and failed to normalize in 31 patients (35%). The median time to normalization was 18.3 months. The actuarial rate of normalization at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months was 10%, 26%, 38%, and 59%, respectively. In a multivariate analysis, a pretreatment testosterone level in the lower range of normal was the only variable that predicted for delayed testosterone normalization after NAAD ( p = 0.00047). Among 45 patients with information concerning androgen deprivation-related symptoms recorded 1 year after cessation of NAAD, 24 (53%) had normalized testosterone levels, but in 21 patients (47%), the levels had not yet returned to normal. At 1 year, only 1 (4%) of 24 patients whose testosterone level had returned to normal experienced NAAD-related symptoms compared with 14 (67%) of 21 patients who did not have normal testosterone levels ( p Conclusion: Testosterone levels often remain depressed for extended periods after cessation of short-course NAAD. Lower baseline testosterone levels predict for a delay in testosterone normalization, and the persistence of symptoms related to androgen deprivation correlates with low testosterone levels.
Effect of Heat Treatment on Microstructure and Properties of P91 Steel

The effect of improper heat treatment progress on the structure and properties of P91 steel was studied. Results showed that under aircooling conditions, although the normalization temperature is beyond conventional range, the hardness meets the requirements of ASME standard, and the microstructure appear a gradual transition from equiaxed ferrite with carbide precipitates to tempered martensite. In addition ,when normalization temperature was as high as 1150°C and 1250°C, there is an characteristic morphology of coarse martensite laths and some of them are orthogonal to each other. When normalization cooling rate is slowly at 1°C/min, the hardness dropped under the lower limit at reduced normalization temperatures and the microstructure consist of polygonized ferrite and carbide precipitates. SEM and TEM observation indicated that with the increasing normalization temperature the ferrite morphology transforms from coarse polygonized to finer equiaxed, and carbide precipitates not only along boundaries but also within the grain, at the same tine rod shape carbides formed at 1000°C normalization.
Swimming Depth, Behavior, and Survival of Atlantic Salmon Postsmolts in Penobscot Bay, Maine

Abstract To gain information on postsmolt dynamics of emigrating Atlantic salmon Salmo salar through Penobscot Estuary and Penobscot Bay, Maine, we conducted a telemetry experiment in 2005. We implanted 26 salmon smolts with ultrasonic depth tags, and monitored movement activity and fish passage with linear detection arrays through 44.2 km of the estuary and 45.5 km of the bay. During daylight in the bay, greater than 95% of the detections occurred in water depths of 5 m or less, but depths to 37 m were recorded. At night, 99% of the detections were in the top 5 m of the water column and maximum depth was 9 m. Overall survival was 39% and was highest for smaller fish and those released earlier in the smolt run, when river discharge was greater. Rapid emigration (i.e., approximately 1 km/h) and preferential surface orientation improved survival. These results verify that postsmolts are primarily surface oriented in the waters of Penobscot Bay and that they may experience high rates of nearshore mortality d...
The placement optimization program: a practical solution to the disk file assignment problem

In this paper we describe a practical mathematical formulation and solution of the so-called “File Assignment Problem” (FAP) for computer disks. Our FAP solution has been implemented in a PL/I program known as the Placement Optimization Program (POP). The algorithm consists of three major components — two heuristic optimization models and a queueing network model. POP has been used in validation studies to assign files to disks in two IBM MVS complexes. The resulting savings in I/O response times were 22% and 25%, respectively. Throughout the paper we shall emphasize the real-world nature of our approach to the disk FAP, which we believe sets it apart from previous attempts.
Scan-Sharing for Optimizing RDF Graph Pattern Matching on MapReduce

Recently, the number and size of RDF data collections has increased rapidly making the issue of scalable processing techniques crucial. The MapReduce model has become a de facto standard for large scale data processing using a cluster of machines in the cloud. Generally, RDF query processing creates join-intensive workloads, resulting in lengthy MapReduce workflows with expensive I/O, data transfer, and sorting costs. However, the MapReduce computation model provides limited static optimization techniques used in relational databases (e.g., indexing and cost-based optimization). Consequently, dynamic optimization techniques for such join-intensive tasks on MapReduce need to be investigated. In some previous efforts, we propose a Nested Triple Group data model and Algebra (NTGA) for efficient graph pattern query processing in the cloud. Here, we extend this work with a scan-sharing technique that is used to optimize the processing of graph patterns with repeated properties. Specifically, our scan-sharing technique eliminates the need for repeated scanning of input relations when properties are used repeatedly in graph patterns. A formal foundation underlying this scan sharing technique is discussed as well as an implementation strategy that has been integrated in the Apache Pig framework is presented. We also present a comprehensive evaluation demonstrating performance benefits of our NTGA plus scan-sharing approach.
Hepatitis C Virus and Innate Immunity: Taking a Fresh Look into an Old Issue

The innate immune response represents the first line of defense against hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. The response is an early, coordinated effort orchestrated by host interferon (IFN) production, natural killer cell activation, and dendritic cell maturation, which, when effective, primes a successful adaptive immune response, leading to resolution of infection. Numerous mechanisms allow subversion of innate immunity, often establishing chronicity and resistance to conventional antiviral therapy. Recent groundbreaking studies examining viral evasion of host defenses and genetic host determinants of response to IFN have advanced our understanding of the innate immune response to HCV. This has provided the framework for individualized treatment approaches and the development of novel therapeutics aimed at restoring innate immune signaling during chronic infection. The objective of this report is to review advances in our understanding of HCV and host innate immune defenses, and to highlight their clinical translation.
Adoration of the vagi

The use of muscarinic antagonists, such as atropine, as bronchodilators has captured the interest of investigators studying the regulation of airway smooth muscle. Cyclic anticholinergic compounds that have recently been developed can be delivered by aerosols into the airways, with minimal systemic side effects. Thus, if acctylcholine released from vagal motor nerves innervating airway smooth muscle is an important cause of airway narrowing in disease, substantial bronchodilation may result, possibly with few side effects (i.e., a high "therapeutic ratio"). For these reasons, it is important therapeutically to determine the efficacy and limitations of the use of muscarinic antagonists. Evidence for . . .
Miniaturized multi-element monopole antenna

An electrically small antenna has been developed, presented and discussed. The featured antenna is derived from the traditional monopole antenna. Additional elements are combined and the topology is further modified to display a radiation characteristic similar to a vertically oriented monopole antenna. The antenna is further miniaturized for enhanced mobility and compactness. The miniaturized multi-element monopole antenna is less than 0.03 lambda in vertical height. 2:1 VSWR bandwidth of the proposed antenna is measured to be similar to a typical electrically small monopole antenna. However, the antenna features excellent radiation efficiency and is easily matched to a 50 ohm feed line. To further enhance the bandwidth of the antenna, a dual-band multi-element antenna is designed by combing two multi-element antennas through parasitic coupling. The miniaturized dual-band multi-element antenna displays improved bandwidth, omnidirectional radiation patterns, and excellent gain.
The Challenge of Pediatric Hospital Medicine Research

The launch of Hospital Pediatrics as a full-fledged journal represents a major turning point in the development of pediatric hospital medicine as an academic field and demonstrates that we have a sufficient number of scientific inquiries to warrant an independent, peer-reviewed journal. However, there are persistent challenges for hospitalists who desire an academic career, including insufficient research training, dedicated research time, and academic mentorship and role models. An additional challenge, as well as opportunity, for those with an interest in pediatric hospital medicine research is the wide range of activities in the field, including quality improvement (QI), comparative effectiveness research, educational evaluation, health services research, and practice management. Although there is often overlap among these areas, they are rapidly evolving so that definitions and training needs are not always clear. The demand for high-quality research in all of these areas has never been greater. QI has taken a place at center stage, as we …
Effects of population structure on genetic association studies

Population-based case-control association is a promising approach for unravelling the genetic basis of complex diseases. One potential problem of this approach is the presence of population structure in the samples. Using the Collaborative Study on the Genetics of Alcoholism (COGA) single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) datasets, we addressed three questions: How can the degree of population structure be quantified, and how does the population structure affect association studies? How accurate and efficient is the genomic control method in correcting for population structure? The amount of population structure in the COGA SNP data was found to inflate the p-value in association tests. Genomic control was found to be effective only when the appropriate number of markers was used in the control group in order to correctly calibrate the test. The approach presented in this paper could be used to select the appropriate number of markers for use in the genomic control method of correcting population structure.
Foraging and agonistic activity co-occur in free-ranging blue crabs (Callinectes sapidus): observation of animals by ultrasonic telemetry

Abstract To define the temporal and spatial patterns of agonism and foraging activity in blue crabs ( Callinectes sapidus ), we monitored five free-ranging animals in the Rhode River subestuary of the central Chesapeake Bay by ultrasonic telemetry during the summers of 1991–93. The interdependence between the two activities was of special interest. High crab densities have been associated with more frequent aggressive interactions and decreased foraging success in previous laboratory studies. High crab population density is correlated with increased frequency of aggression-related injury (autotomy) and cannibalism in the field. Consequently, we predicted that as crabs aggregate to clam patches during feeding periods in the field, the level of aggressive interactions would increase. In early trials, we collected data on location and agonistic activity (the stereotypical spreading of the chelae in the `meral spread' threat display) of crabs moving freely in the estuary by using single-channel telemetry transmitters. With subsequent technological advancements, we received simultaneous data on agonism and feeding. Crabs exhibited a diel pattern of agonism with peaks in threat display occurring in mornings and sometimes in evenings. Crabs fitted with single-channel telemetry transmitters were observed interacting aggressively most often at times previously identified as feeding periods, although the highest levels of agonism came slightly later than periods associated with the highest levels of feeding. Simultaneous telemetry of the two behaviors indicated that periods of increased agonism and feeding overlapped. Feeding activity tended to wane as threat activity increased, consistent with the hypothesis that aggressive interference impairs foraging.
Evaluation of Gatekeeper Training for Suicide Prevention in Veterans

Clinical providers and "front line" nonclinical staff who work with veterans, families, and communities are natural gatekeepers to identify and to refer veterans at risk for suicide. A national cohort (n = 602) of community based counseling center staff from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) participated in an evaluation of a brief standardized gatekeeper training program and a scripted behavioral rehearsal practice session. A significant difference in knowledge and self efficacy was observed from pre to post (p < .0001) with the nonclinicians showing larger effect sizes for knowledge (0.96 vs. 0.42) and self efficacy (0.89 vs. 0.41). Gatekeeper training for suicide prevention shows promise for increasing the capacity of VA staff to work with at risk veterans.
60 GHz AMC antennas in multi-processor multi-chip data transmission

This paper mainly discusses the preliminary design of 60GHz antennas utilized in the multi-chip multi-core (MCMC) architecture. The antenna is designed with the low temperature co-fired ceramic (LTCC) fabrication process and the stacked via is selected as the vertical feeding. The designed antenna on the artificial magnetic conductor (AMC) demonstrates the high efficiency, impedance matching and enhanced end-fire radiation capabilities with the surface wave on the ground shielded conducting structures.
Quality of 'bosc' pears as influenced by elevated carbon dioxide storage

'Bosc' pears (Pyrus communis L.) were placed in a purge-type controlled-atmosphere (CA) storage immediately after harvest (<24 h) and held for 180 days at 1C. Oxygen in all atmospheres was 1.5% and CO 2 was 1%, 3% or 5%. Pears were evaluated immediately after removal from CA storage and after ripening for an additional 7 days at 21 C. Pears stored in 3% CO 2 were firmer, had a superior finish, with significantly reduced decay and internal breakdown than pears stored in 1% CO 2 . In 3% CO 2 , pears retained the ability to ripen after long-term storage. A 10 day delay in atmosphere establishment had little or no influence on the long-term keeping quality or ripening ability of Bosc' pears. Firmness, soluble solids content and starch either alone or together were good indices of maturity for 'Bosc' pears.
Improving the Grammar of Written English: The Handbook

Improving the Grammar of Written English: The Editing Process. Beverly Benson and Patricia Byrd
Joint Probabilistic Curve Clustering and Alignment

Clustering and prediction of sets of curves is an important problem in many areas of science and engineering. It is often the case that curves tend to be misaligned from each other in a continuous manner, either in space (across the measurements) or in time. We develop a probabilistic framework that allows for joint clustering and continuous alignment of sets of curves in curve space (as opposed to a fixed-dimensional feature-vector space). The proposed methodology integrates new probabilistic alignment models with model-based curve clustering algorithms. The probabilistic approach allows for the derivation of consistent EM learning algorithms for the joint clustering-alignment problem. Experimental results are shown for alignment of human growth data, and joint clustering and alignment of gene expression time-course data.
The molecular perspective: targeted toxins.

are designed, using recombinant DNA technology and imagination, to seek out cancer cells and kill them. Two components are needed: a molecular machine to find cancer cells, and another molecular machine to do the killing. Fortunately, evolution has done much of the work for us. We merely have picked the pieces that we need and combined them in an appropriate fashion. To seek out cancer cells, we look to our own body for the means. Our immune system is our most powerful and flexible method for recognizing molecules, so it is an obvious place to look for a cancer-targeting molecule. Antibodies may be selected and constructed to bind to nearly any molecule on the surface of cancer cells. The trick is to find a molecule that is expressed solely on cancer cells, and not on non-cancer cells. Another option is to pick a receptor on the cancer cell surface, and then use its normal mate as the targeting molecule. Many of these pairs, such as growth factors and their receptors or interleukins and their receptors, have been employed. To kill cancer cells, we look to nature. Plants and bacteria protect themselves with powerful toxins that kill human cells. Typically, these toxins are non-specific: they will seek out just about any human cell and kill it. The best toxins for our needs, such as ricin from castor beans (Fig. 1) or the bacterial Pseudomonas enterotoxin, are enzymes. These toxins are so powerful that a single molecule can kill an entire cell. They sneak inside cells and then wreak havoc, jumping from one molecule to the next and destroying them. This is far more effective than poisons like cyanide and arsenic, which do battle one-on-one, one toxin molecule for each of our own molecules. By linking these two pieces, we create a targeted toxin (Fig. 2). We must pay heed to a few details. Most of these toxins have built-in targeting functions that must be disabled, so that the toxin does not attack cells indiscriminantly. Also, the targeting molecule must be carefully chosen to minimize binding to non-cancer cells. This is perThe Molecular Perspective: Targeted Toxins
Malignant Papillary Renal Tumors With Extensive Clear Cell Change: A Molecular Analysis by Microsatellite Analysis and Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization

Abstract Context.—Histologic subtyping of renal cell carcinomas (RCCs) is based not only on cytoarchitectural pattern but also on distinct cytogenetic abnormalities. Some renal tumors demonstrate overlapping morphologic features, rendering histologic subtyping difficult. One such group of tumors is papillary renal neoplasms with extensive clear cell change. Because histologic subtyping has been shown to be of prognostic value, it is important that malignant epithelial renal tumors be accurately subtyped. It is not known if these tumors should be classified as papillary RCC (PRCC) or as conventional/(clear cell) RCC (CRCC). Objective.—To ascertain if this subgroup of renal neoplasms demonstrates the cytogenetic abnormalities seen typically in PRCC, that is, trisomy 7 and 17 or CRCC, that is, loss of 3p, using microsatellite analysis for loss of heterozygosity (LOH), and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) for trisomies. Design.—Seven RCCs from 6 patients that showed more than 75% papillary architectu...
End-of-Life Care at a Community Cancer Center

Early concurrent palliative care and earlier hospice admission may improve quality of life because of better symptom management and avoidance of aggressive and/or toxic therapies at end of life.
Daily Stress, Coping, and Well-Being in Parents of Children With Autism: A Multilevel Modeling Approach

This study used a repeated daily measurement design to examine the direct and moderating effects of coping on daily psychological distress and well-being in parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Twice weekly over a 12-week period, 93 parents provided reports of their daily stress, coping responses, and end-of-day mood. Multilevel modeling analyses identified 5 coping responses (e.g., seeking support, positive reframing) that predicted increased daily positive mood and 4 (e.g., escape, withdrawal) that were associated with decreased positive mood. Similarly, 2 coping responses were associated with decreased daily negative mood and 5 predicted increased negative mood. The moderating effects of gender and the 11 coping responses were also examined. Gender did not moderate the daily coping?mood relationship, however 3 coping responses (emotional regulation, social support, and worrying) were found to moderate the daily stress?mood relationship. Additionally, ASD symptomatology, and time since an ASD diagnosis were not found to predict daily parental mood. This study is perhaps the first to identify coping responses that enhance daily well-being and mitigate daily distress in parents of children with ASD.
The impact of the Affordable Care Act on Medicare Advantage plan availability and enrollment.

Objective To assess the impact of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act's (ACA) changes in Medicare Advantage (MA) payment rates on the availability of and enrollment in MA plans. Data Sources Secondary data on MA plan offerings, contract offerings, and enrollment by state and county, in 2010–2011. Study Design We estimated regression models of the change in the number of plans, the number of contracts, and enrollment as a function of quartiles of FFS spending and pre-ACA MA payment generosity. Counties in the lowest quartile of spending are treated most generously by the ACA. Principal Findings Relative to counties in the highest quartile of spending, the number of plans in counties in the first, second, and third quartiles rose by 12 percent, 7.6 percent, and 5.4 percent, respectively. Counties with more generous MA payment rates before the ACA lost significantly more plans. We did not find a similar impact on the change in contracts or enrollment. Conclusions The ACA-induced MA payment changes reduced the number of plan choices available for Medicare beneficiaries, but they have yet affected enrollment patterns.
Left ear performance in dichotic listening following commissurotomy

Abstract Contribution of the left ear stimulus to dichotic listening performance following commissurotomy was studied in five patients. In two tasks, subjects were asked to identify in writing both members of a pair of competing stimuli, either digits or CV syllables. A third task required subjects to integrate high and low frequency components of a single word presented dichotically. Left ear performance was at chance level for CV syllables but exceeded 80% for four out of five patients on the digit stimuli. All patients showed evidence of being able to utilize left ear information in the dichotic fusion task. Results indicate that apparent supression of left ear material in the dichotic task is a function of spectral-temporal overlap between competing stimuli.
Damping of Flexural Vibration by Low-Density Foams and Granular Materials

The damping of flexural vibration by introduction of a layer of low-density foam or powder into a structure is investigated. First, we report on experiments in which a layer of foam attached to an aluminum beam gives rise to significant damping at frequencies high enough to induce standing waves in the foam layer. Next, we provide a simple model for such vibration in which the foam is treated as a two-dimensional elastic continuum in which waves can propagate and find that the model is in good agreement with the experiments. Then the results of experiments in which aluminum beams are filled with a low-density powder are presented. The powder-filled beams exhibit behavior qualitatively like that of the foam-filled beams, but we find that the powder can be adequately modeled as an inviscid compressible fluid.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Microtubule-Actin Crosslinking Factor 1 Is Required for Dendritic Arborization and Axon Outgrowth in the Developing Brain

Dendritic arborization and axon outgrowth are critical steps in the establishment of neural connectivity in the developing brain. Changes in the connectivity underlie cognitive dysfunction in neurodevelopmental disorders. However, molecules and associated mechanisms that play important roles in dendritic and axon outgrowth in the brain are only partially understood. Here, we show that microtubule-actin crosslinking factor 1 (MACF1) regulates dendritic arborization and axon outgrowth of developing pyramidal neurons by arranging cytoskeleton components and mediating GSK-3 signaling. MACF1 deletion using conditional mutant mice and in utero gene transfer in the developing brain markedly decreased dendritic branching of cortical and hippocampal pyramidal neurons. MACF1-deficient neurons showed reduced density and aberrant morphology of dendritic spines. Also, loss of MACF1 impaired the elongation of callosal axons in the brain. Actin and microtubule arrangement appeared abnormal in MACF1-deficient neurites. Finally, we found that GSK-3 is associated with MACF1-controlled dendritic differentiation. Our findings demonstrate a novel role for MACF1 in neurite differentiation that is critical to the creation of neuronal connectivity in the developing brain.
High-grade serous ovarian cancer cell lines exhibit heterogeneous responses to growth factor stimulation

The factors driving the onset and progression of ovarian cancer are not well understood. Recent reports have identified cell lines that are representative of the genomic pattern of high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC), in which greater than 90 % of tumors have a mutation in TP53. However, many of these representative cell lines have not been widely used so it is unclear if these cell lines capture the variability that is characteristic of the disease. We investigated six TP53-mutant HGSOC cell lines (Caov3, Caov4, OV90, OVCA432, OVCAR3, and OVCAR4) for migration, MMP2 expression, proliferation, and VEGF secretion, behaviors that play critical roles in tumor progression. In addition to comparing baseline variation between the cell lines, we determined how these behaviors changed in response to four growth factors implicated in ovarian cancer progression: HB-EGF, NRG1β, IGF1, and HGF. Baseline levels of each behavior varied across the cell lines and this variation was comparable to that seen in tumors. All four growth factors impacted cell proliferation or VEGF secretion, and HB-EGF, NRG1β, and HGF impacted wound closure or MMP2 expression in at least two cell lines. Growth factor-induced responses demonstrated substantial heterogeneity, with cell lines sensitive to all four growth factors, a subset of the growth factors, or none of the growth factors, depending on the response of interest. Principal component analysis demonstrated that the data clustered together based on cell line rather than growth factor identity, suggesting that response is dependent on intrinsic qualities of the tumor cell rather than the growth factor. Significant variation was seen among the cell lines, consistent with the heterogeneity of HGSOC.
A parallel task allocation methodology for non-buffered message-passing environments

The performance of large-scale real-world applications may be enhanced by more efficient utilization of today's powerful parallel computing hardware. The authors describe a novel MIMD (multiple instruction, multiple data) static task allocation methodology created to achieve this goal for a wide range of real-time and deterministic systems. The method performs automatic assignment, mapping, and scheduling of the executable tasks to the available set of processors, assuming synchronous nonbuffered (lock-step) communication between the sending and receiving processors and an arbitrary static message-passing topology. The algorithm incorporates a set of list-based heuristics and graph-theoretical procedures designed to balance computational load with communication requirements. The effectiveness of the method has been verified by applying it to a large number of randomly generated task systems that span a wide range of inherent concurrency as well as to a task system of a real-world simulation of the Space Shuttle main rocket engine. >
Korean Exports and Economic Growth: An Econometric Reassessment

Controversy has surrounded the role exports play in stimulating economic growth. Some authors find causation from exports to GNP, while others have concluded that exports retard GNP growth. Still others find no causation or find bidirectional causation with the Sims test but not with the Granger test. We employ annual data for a long time period (1953 to 1990) for Korea, enhancing the power of unit root tests. With these data we consistently find two-way exogeneity with the Sims test under progressively longer lead and lag assumptions. Moreover, Granger causality tests also indicate two-way causation. Therefore, at least for institutional settings similar to Korea, considerable confidence can be placed in the hypothesis that export promoting policies will enhance growth prospects.
Webcaster Settlement Act: Implications

On October 16, 2008, the Webcaster Settlement Act of 2008 (WSA), the latest installment in the dispute regarding royalty fees for the webcasting of sound recordings, was signed into law by President Bush. The WSA removes the notice and approval requirements for parties executing a voluntarily negotiated licensing agreement defining the royalty fees and terms for streaming sound recordings over the Internet. The WSA may be the lifeline that webcasters need to escape the oppressive royalty fee schedule recently imposed by the Copyright Royalty Board.
The feather mite genus Neopetitota (Pterolichoidea: Kramerellidae)

Neopetitota (Kramerellidae) is redefined; N. bubonis , n. sp., is described from the Great Horned Owl, Bubo virginianus , in New York. New host-parasite associations are recorded.
Verification of Real-Time Systems using Statistical Model Checking

Software for airborne systems have become more and more complex, yet the need to verify correct behavior remains constant. Adding to the challenge is the fact that these systems operate in uncertain environments where the workload they must process may not be known in advance. Statistical model checking is one tool that has been shown to be useful in verification of large complex systems operating under uncertainty. One challenge area for software validation in UAS systems is the evaluation of the performance of task scheduling policies. In this paper, we apply statistical model checking to characterize the timing behavior of a system using zero-slack rate-monotonic scheduler. We compare this to the timing behavior of traditional rate-monotonic scheduling. We show that task deadline requirements can impact the relative performance of the two scheduling policies.
Expression of mRNA Encoding Rat Brain Ca2+ Channels in Xenopus Oocytes

Our laboratory is seeking a mechanistic picture of the action of the voltage-dependent, Ca2+ -selective ion channels that partially underlie the electrical excitability of membranes. Full explanations will ultimately require pictures of such molecules at atomic resolution (as obtained with X-ray crystallography) in all their states (closed, open, inactivated, etc.). Such structural information is not yet available for any channel.
1 Molecular Biology of Asexual Sporulation in Filamentous Fungi

Filamentous fungi (molds) are characterized by their growth form of multicellular filaments, and they include a large and taxonomically diverse number of fungal species. Among them, members of the genera Aspergillus, Penicillum, and Fusarium include major toxigenic and pathogenic fungi that all produce a massive number of asexual spores (conidia) and various fungal toxins. Asexual sporulation (conidiation) is a common and highly successful reproductive mode in the ascomycetous filamentous fungi. Conidiation involves a diverse range of biological processes including cellular differentiation, cell–cell communications, responses to environmental cues, and regulation of gene expression. The entire processes of conidiation are governed by multiple positive and negative regulators and signaling components. In this chapter, we present a synopsis of the molecular biology of asexual sporulation focusing on the roles of a diverse array of genetic elements governing conidiogenesis in Aspergillus nidulans, Penicillium marneffei, and Fusarium graminearum.
Why People Behave the Way They Do

This note outlines a simple but powerful model, in managerial language, for understanding why people behave the way they do. The model builds a set of relationships among perceptions, beliefs, conclusions, defense mechanisms, and behavior. The note provides a framework that has been useful in a variety of settings for practicing managers.
Engineering Design: Representing Design Processes

We now complete our discussion of representing design knowledge by turning to the representation of the design process in terms of the languages of design that we identified in Chapter 5. We take a path parallel to that of the previous chapter as we show how AI-based problem-solving methods can be used to model the ways we solve design problems, as well as how we represent the kinds of design knowledge we use to solve design problems. Classical Design Methods In Chapter 3, we described several prescriptive models of the design process. Inherent in these prescriptions is a disposition toward inductive reasoning wherein we try to induce or infer a solution to a design problem by filling in incomplete information or knowledge. We might contrast this with a deductive approach to design wherein, in its most prevalent implementation, we deduce solutions to our current design problem from case studies of previous designs. As discussed in Section 6.2, there is a rough analogy here between using a set of rules to analyze the meaning of a set of symptoms or conditions, in which case we are reasoning deductively, and using a set of rules to work “backward” from a set of desired goals in order to find the conditions that would allow us to achieve those goals, given the rules under which we are operating. In the latter case, clearly, we are reasoning more inductively than deductively. The classical or traditional methods that we describe in this section are clearly informed by and support the inductive nature of the design-process prescriptions presented earlier (cf. Section 3.3). ♦
Gender and the Mental–Physical Health Connection Among U.S. Adults

Using data from the 1995, 1998, and 2001 panels of Aging, Status, and Sense of Control (ASOC) Survey, we examine gender differences in the relationship between self-rated physical health and mental health over time (n = 2,543). Gender-stratified path models highlight how the nature of the mental–physical health relationship changes when we use indicators of mental health that have traditionally been labeled as female sensitive (depression) or male sensitive (heavy drinking). Results show that women and men are similar in that mental health has a stronger effect on physical health than the reverse. However, this is only the case when we use gender-sensitive measures of mental distress: Men who drink heavily and women who are depressed report poorer self-rated physical health over time, while heavy drinking for women and depression for men have no significant effects on their self-rated physical well-being. These results provide evidence of a health process that is gendered in its expression but more universal in its outcome—the exact measure might vary, but men and women alike are physically harmed by mental health problems.
The Right Prediction

Despite much improvement in the outcomes of patients undergoing implantation with left ventricular assist devices (LVADs), right ventricle (RV) failure remains a challenging clinical dilemma, particularly perioperatively as a significant cause of morbidity and mortality ([1][1]). In the patient
Two species of tanagers (Passeriformes: Thraupidae) forage on army ant workers (Eciton burchellii) carrying immature paper wasps.

ABSTRACT Eciton burchellii is a Neotropical army ant that consumes a variety of arthropods captured during swarm raids. Wasp larvae and pupae provide an important food source for E. burchellii, and this ant species is thought to be a major predator on immature wasps in many Neotropical areas. Some birds also prey on wasp brood. Numerous bird species regularly follow E. burchellii swarms but are thought to typically avoid eating army ants. Rather, the birds feed on the arthropods that the ant swarms flush from the leaf litter. I report observations of ant-following birds, the Gray-headed Tanager Eucometis penicillata and the Flame-colored Tanager Piranga bidentata consuming E. burchellii workers that were carrying Polistinae wasp larvae and pupae. It has been suggested that ant-following birds may impose a cost to army ants by consuming arthropods and competing with ants for food resources. Also, it has been speculated that army ants emigrate at night to avoid the loss of their brood to birds, but lack of ...
A study of otolaryngology resident quality of life and sleepiness.

OBJECTIVES This study aimed to determine otolaryngology residents' quality of life and sleepiness. METHODS An electronic survey was distributed to otolaryngology residents in the United States in October 2014 and May 2015. The survey included questions from the Physician Well-Being Index (PWBI) and Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). Data were analyzed using standard descriptive and frequency analyses, Spearman correlations, and Student's t-test. RESULTS The 196 respondents (13% response rate) had a mean age of 29.9 years and worked an average of 70.88 hours/week. Higher PWBI score (lower quality of life) correlated with higher ESS (more sleepiness) for all respondents regardless of rotation (Spearman coefficient of .45; p = .001). PWBI scores were higher for head/neck oncology. Both PWBI and ESS scores were highest for postgraduate year two. PWBI showed a significant positive correlation with hours worked (correlation coefficient .35; p = .001) as well as a significant negative correlation with exercise time (correlation coefficient -.18; p = .010). There was a positive correlation between hours worked and ESS (correlation coefficient .48; p = .001). CONCLUSION For the otolaryngology survey respondents, sleepiness and overall well-being were better during the first year with a dramatic worsening during junior years followed by an improvement in the senior years. More work hours and poor quality of life was associated with less physically active residents. Focused interventions during these rotations may reduce distress, improve quality of life, and enhance learning. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE NA.
Kinematics of a Poincaré-covariant object having indecomposable internal structure

Ten generators for the Poincare group are exhibited, defining the kinematics of an object with an internal space over two real variables. The Hamiltonian implies a general (Regge-band) discrete mass-spin relationship. The generators are given in two forms: in quasi-Newtonian coordinates and in Minkowski coordinates, the latter allowing one to introduce interactions. (AIP)
Abstract 367: Lysyl Oxidase Expression by Cardiac Fibroblasts is Regulated by Integrin-mediated Signaling

Cardiac fibrosis following myocardial infarction (MI) leads to reduced cardiac function, and contributes to heart failure and mortality. Recent studies shown the extent of adverse remodeling may be...
Convincing physicians to report communicable diseases.

In a study of New York physicians' compliance with reporting of communicable diseases, surveyed physicians responded better to legal warnings than to requests that explained public health benefits. Virtual Mentor is a monthly bioethics journal published by the American Medical Association.