cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Rat Chromosome 8 Confers Protection against Dyslipidemia Caused by a High-Fat/ Low-Carbohydrate Diet

Background/Aims: Recent studies have highlighted the importance of gene by diet interactions in contributing to risk factors of metabolic syndrome. We used a consomic rat panel, in which a chromosome of the Brown Norway (BN) strain is introgressed onto the background of the Dahl salt-sentitive (SS) strain, to test the hypothesis that these animals will be useful for dissecting gene by diet interactions involved in metabolic syndrome. Methods: We placed the parental SS and BN strains on a low-fat/high-carbohydrate (LF) or high-fat/low-carbohydrate (HF) diet for 22 weeks and measured several indices of metabolic syndrome. We then investigated the effect of diet in eight consomic rat strains. Results: We show that the HF diet resulted in significantly increased levels of fasting plasma cholesterol and triglycerides in the SS strain, with no effect in the BN. Both strains responded to the HF diet with slight increases in body weight. SSBN8 was the only consomic strain that resembled that of the BN, with low levels of fasting cholesterol and triglycerides even on the HF diet. Conclusions: These results indicate that BN chromosome 8 harbors a gene or genes that confer protection against dyslipidemia caused by the HF diet.
The amyloid beta-protein of Alzheimer's disease is chemotactic for mononuclear phagocytes.

Abstract The cellular pathology of Alzheimer's disease includes an accumulation of microglia surrounding the amyloid plaques. We report that human amyloid beta-protein is chemotactic for murine resident peritoneal macrophages and rat microglia, which may account for the increased density of microglia in plaques. A maximal chemotactic response was observed at 1–10nM, with a 2.5 fold increase in activity over controls for both classes of mononuclear phagocytes. The neurotoxic peptide fragment (25–35) of amyloid beta-protein is similarly chemotactic, while a control scrambled version and the precursor protein are not chemotactic. These results indicate that beta-protein may influence plaque formation via the recruitment of phagocytes, with consequent implications for the future development of treatments for Alzheimer's disease.
Gyrotropic effects in hyperbolic metamaterials

Hyperbolic metamaterials (HMs) have recently been one of the most prominent impetus to infrared and optical applications for their broadband spontaneous emission enhancement and super absorption of near fields. It has been shown that plasmonic layers stacked with subwavelength dielectric spacers can be homogenized as a uniaxial electric media, with negative transverse permittivity for a wide range of parameters, which gives rise to a hyperbolic wavevector dispersion characteristics. In this premise, we investigate an HM implementation that utilize thin in-plane anisotropic structures in a multilayer configuration. Such anisotropic materials can be implemented, depending on the desired operating wavelength, using anistropically-patterned metasurfaces, or by exploiting the Hall effect in magnetically-biased metals, semiconductors or graphene sheets. We explore the possibility of observing non-vanishing off-diagonal elements in the effective permittivity tensor, in other words, obtaining an effective gyrotropic and nonreciprocal media with negative transverse permittivity. Moreover, we demonstrate how the propagation wavenumber inside the effective gyrotropic medium can be derived using a transmission line formalism, where a new set of wave solutions is formed as a result of the peculiar coupling between the TE and TM polarizations. We also validate our analysis with the rigorous transfer matrix approach by cascading the multilayers and constructing a four port network that accounts for the mode-coupling, and we show good agreement with the effective medium description in calculating plane wave transmission and reflection spatial spectrum of the multilayer.
Food Choice of Largemouth Bass as a Function of Availability and Vulnerability of Food Items

Abstract Under experimental conditions largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) used golden shiners (Notemigonus crysoleucas) most heavily as food. Bluegills (Lepomis macrochirus) were used more heavily than green sunfish (Lepomis cyanellus). Green sunfish were chosen over bullheads (Ictalurus melas) and white crappies (Pomoxis annularis). Use of crayfish (Orconectes immunis) was variable, and in some cases they were not chosen at all. Natural-colored goldfish (Carassius auratus) were preferred over gold-colored ones. Green sunfish and bullfrog tadpoles (Rana catesbeiana) were eaten sparingly in comparison to golden shiners. The leopard frog tadpoles (Rana pipiens) were eaten commonly in one comparison with shiners but not at all in another trial. Small bullfrogs were utilized more intensively than shiners in one trial but not eaten in another trial. Utilization of small bullfrogs was variable when accompanied by crayfish; toads were not eaten when fed with leopard frogs. Food items thrown into the tank we...
Intrahippocampal Wortmannin Infusion Enhances Long-Term Spatial and Contextual Memories

The transition from short- to long-term memory involves several biochemical cascades, some of which act in an antagonistic manner. Post-training intrahippocampal administration of wortmannin, a pharmacological inhibitor of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, had no effect on memory tested 3 h later, but improved long-term memory tested 48 h following the completion of training. This effect was seen in two hippocampus-dependent tasks: the Morris water maze, using both massed and distributed training paradigms, and contextual fear conditioning. The improvement of long-term memory appears to be the result of enhanced consolidation, as wortmannin had no effect on memory recall. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that memory consolidation involves competing processes, and that blockade of an inhibitory constraint facilitates the consolidation process.
Random differential equations as models of ecosystems: Monte Carlo simulation approach

Abstract The behavior of a simple aquatic ecosystem with algae, bacteria, Daphnia , detritus, and usable dissolved organic carbon as its components was studied using random differential equation models. The randomness in the system has been introduced through initial conditions, input variables, and parameters. The computer simulation results show that the deterministic solution and the stochastic mean are different. Also, there was some degree of increased “stability” in the stochastic system. A large number of numerical solutions generated by the Monte Carlo procedure give a range of biomass values which is very similar to the range of values obtained from field measurements. These models enable us to make predictions in terms of means and associated variances and thus are more useful than deterministic models for applied problems in ecology and resource management.
Vasoactive drugs in chronic regurgitant lesions of the mitral and aortic valves.

This review examines the results of vasodilator therapy in patients with chronic regurgitant lesions of the aortic and mitral valves. The analysis includes those studies which provide data on hemodynamic measurements, left ventricular systolic function, ventricular volumes and regurgitant flow. In patients with chronic aortic or mitral regurgitation, the short-term administration of nitroprusside, hydralazine, nifedipine or an angiotensinconverting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor produces salutary hemodynamic effects. The major difference in the response to combined preload and afterload reduction (i.e., nitroprusside) in patients with aortic versus mitral regurgitation was that forward stroke volume generally increased and ejection fraction remained unchanged in mitral regurgitation, whereas ejection fraction generally increased and forward stroke volume remained unchanged in aortic regurgitation. These observations suggest that a reciprocal relation between regurgitant and forward flow characterizes the response to preload and afterload reduction in mitral regurgitation (through a preload-dependent dynamic regurgitant orifice), whereas correction of afterload mismatch dominates the response in aortic regurgitation. In studies of long-term vasodilator therapy in patients with chronic aortic regurgitation, a reduction in left ventricular volumes and regurgitant fraction, with or without an increase in ejection fraction, has been observed during treatment with hydralazine, nifedipine and ACE inhibitors. Patients with the largest, sickest hearts generally benefit the most from treatment with vasoactive drugs. Nonetheless, favorable ventricular remodeling has been reported in asymptomatic patients, and long-term nifedipine use has delayed the need for operation in asymptomatic patients with chronic aortic regurgitation. For patients with chronic mitral regurgitation, definition of the etiology of the lesion is a prerequisite for choosing appropriate therapy. Excluding patients with obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and mitral valve prolapse, and some with fixed-orifice (i.e., rheumatic) mitral regurgitation, the signal importance of preload reduction suggests that the preferred long-term therapy for symptomatic chronic mitral regurgitation is an ACE inhibitor. There are no long-term studies that support the use of vasodilator therapy in asymptomatic patients with chronic mitral regurgitation.
Preliminary design of a dedicated 6 GeV synchrotron radiation storage ring

Abstract A new magnetic lattice is proposed for a 6 GeV electron storage ring specifically designed for utilization of high brightness undulator and wiggler radiation sources. The basic cell is an achromatic arc with three combined function dipoles, having a vertical focusing gradient. With this arrangement it is possible to achieve an electron beam emittance of ∼ 6 × 10 −9 m·rad at 6 GeV, moderately low chromaticity and good dynamic aperture.
A New Preparation of 7-methylindanone

Abstract In connection with other studies, we found it necessary to prepare 7-methylindanone, II. The literature records1,2 two preparations of II, neither of which is completely satisfactory since each yields a mixture of 7-methyl- and 5-methylindanone. Both procedures involve cyclizaton of m-tolylpropionic acid or its chloride. Acrylophenones are known to cyclize to indanones under acidic conditions3 and this type of reaction was investigated as a better method for the preparation of 7-methylindanone [Reaction (1)].
Shifting Engagements in Figured Worlds: Middle School Mathematics Students' Participation in an Architectural Design Project

Project-based curricula have the potential to engage students' interests. But how do students become interested in the goals of a project? This article documents how a group of 8th-grade students participated in an architectural design project called the Antarctica Project. The project is based on the imaginary premise that students need to design a research station in Antarctica. This premise is meant to provide a mean- ingful context for learning mathematics. Using ethnography and discourse analysis, the article investigates students' engagement with the imaginary premise and curricu- lar tasks during the 7-week project. A case study consisting of scenes from main phases of the project shows how the students took on concerns and responsibilities associated with the figured world proposed by the Antarctica Project and how this shaped their approaches to mathematical tasks (Holland, Lachicotte, Skinner, & Cain, 1998). Participating in the figured world of Antarctica and evaluating situations within this world was important for how students used mathematics meaningfully to solve problems. Curricular tasks and classroom activities that facilitated students in assuming and shifting between roles relevant to multiple figured worlds (i.e., of the classroom, Antarctica, and mathematics) helped them engage in the diverse inten- tions of curricular activities.
The Politics of Distributing Leadership Reconsidering Leadership Distribution in Two Texas Elementary Schools

Recent work on distributed leadership extends an ongoing critique of conventional “heroic” leader portrayals. This article examines work in this area seeking implications for democratic school governance. With material from case studies of two Texas schools, it considers frameworks presented by Spillane, Halverson, and Diamond and by Firestone and Heller. Invoking critical perspectives, it problematizes a conventional managerial slant in the frameworks. The frameworks direct attention to a wider distribution of leadership than is often portrayed. Unfortunately, the frameworks attend primarily to administrative concerns, namely the steering of local actors and channeling of local activity and are largely silent about the politics of distributed leadership. Reconsidering the nature and dynamics of leadership in the two cases, we find broader notions of performance and attention to more deliberative community-building activity reveal the importance of distributed leadership in engendering responsiveness to a...
Anatomy of riots: a situational crime prevention approach

The basis of Situational Crime Prevention, Routine Activity Approach, Environmental Criminology, Opportunity Theory and related perspectives is the notion of rational choice. The preventive techniques are based on the assumption that a rational offender is unlikely to act if the efforts of committing a crime are greater than the expected rewards. This paper seeks to extend the notion of rational choice from the individual to the group and suggests the application of situational prevention to a new dimension – that of large-scale disorder problems such as riots, anti-government demonstrations and confrontational religious celebrations. These disorder problems pose serious challenges since these involve vicious mobs violating prohibitory orders, attacking police personnel and indulging in wanton destruction of property and violence. We argue that even though a mob behaves irrationally and indulges in senseless acts of violence and destruction, the individuals comprising the mob are rational and guided by self-interest in their behavior. Therefore, even in riotous situations, rational choice perspective can be profitably exploited to prevent mayhem. We present several cases of handling major riots and group confrontation from different parts of India. We describe the applicability of several situational techniques to controlling disorder and preventing further escalation of violence. The generalization of Situational Crime Prevention techniques to large-scale order maintenance problems is suggested.
Children's use of verbal strategies in resolving conflicts1

(1981). Children's use of verbal strategies in resolving conflicts. Discourse Processes: Vol. 4, No. 2, pp. 149-170.
Actin Depolymerization Factor/Cofilin Activation Regulates Actin Polymerization and Tension Development in Canine Tracheal Smooth Muscle

The contractile activation of airway smooth muscle tissues stimulates actin polymerization, and the inhibition of actin polymerization inhibits tension development. Actin-depolymerizing factor (ADF) and cofilin are members of a family of actin-binding proteins that mediate the severing of F-actin when activated by dephosphorylation at serine 3. The role of ADF/cofilin activation in the regulation of actin dynamics and tension development during the contractile activation of smooth muscle was evaluated in intact canine tracheal smooth muscle tissues. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis revealed that ADF and cofilin exist in similar proportions in the muscle tissues, and that ∼40% of the total ADF/cofilin in unstimulated tissues is phosphorylated. Phospho-ADF/cofilin decreased concurrently with tension development in response to stimulation with acetylcholine (ACh) or potassium depolarization indicating the activation of ADF/cofilin. Expression of an inactive phospho-cofilin mimetic (cofilin S3E) but not wild type cofilin in the smooth muscle tissues inhibited endogenous ADF/cofilin dephosphorylation and ACh-induced actin polymerization. Expression of cofilin S3E in the tissues depressed tension development in response to ACh, but it did not affect myosin light chain phosphorylation. The ACh-induced dephosphorylation of ADF/cofilin required the Ca2+-dependent activation of calcineurin (PP2B). The results indicate that the activation of ADF/cofilin is regulated by contractile stimulation in tracheal smooth muscle and that cofilin activation is required for actin polymerization and tension development in response to contractile stimulation.
Distinct age-dependent effects of methylphenidate on developing and adult prefrontal neurons

Background Methylphenidate (MPH) has long been used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); however, its cellular mechanisms of action and potential effects on prefrontal cortical circuitry are not well understood, particularly in the developing brain system. A clinically relevant dose range for rodents has been established in the adult animal; however, how this range will translate to juvenile animals has not been established. Methods Juvenile (postnatal day [PD] 15) and adult (PD90) Sprague Dawley rats were treated with MPH or saline. Whole-cell patch clamp recording was used to examine the neuronal excitability and synaptic transmission in pyramidal neurons of prefrontal cortex. Recovery from MPH treatment was also examined at 1, 5, and 10 weeks following drug cessation. Results A dose of 1 mg/kg intraperitoneal MPH, either single dose or chronic treatment (well within the accepted therapeutic range for adults), produced significant depressive effects on pyramidal neurons by increasing hyperpolarization-activated currents in juvenile rat prefrontal cortex, while exerting excitatory effects in adult rats. Minimum clinically-relevant doses (.03 to .3 mg/kg) also produced depressive effects in juvenile rats, in a linear dose-dependent manner. Function recovered within 1 week from chronic 1 mg/kg treatment, chronic treatment with 3 and 9 mg/kg resulted in depression of prefrontal neurons lasting 10 weeks and beyond. Conclusions These results suggest that the juvenile prefrontal cortex is supersensitive to methylphenidate, and the accepted therapeutic range for adults is an overshoot. Juvenile treatment with MPH may result in long-lasting, potentially permanent, changes to excitatory neuron function in the prefrontal cortex of juvenile rats.
3,3'-Bis(quinolin-8-yl)-1,1'-[4,4'-methyl-enebis(4,1-phenyl-ene)]diurea.

The title compound, C33H26N6O2, contains two 3-(quinolin-8-yl)urea groups linked to a diphenyl­methane. The asymmetric unit contains two mol­ecules, A and B. Each quinoline plane is essentially parallel to the attached urea unit [dihedral angles = 8.97 (18) and 8.81 (19) in molecule A and 18.47 (18) and 4.09 (19)° in molecule B]. The two benzene rings are twisted, making dihedral angles of 81.36 (8)° in A and 87.20 (9)° in B. The molecular structures are stabilized by intramolecular N—H⋯N hydrogen bonds. In the crystal, each urea O atom is involved in two N—H⋯O hydrogen bonds, generating two inter­penetrating three-dimensional sets of mol­ecules.
Deglaciation triggered by the resumption of north Atlantic deep water

Changes in the distribution of solar radiation received on Earth, as a result of the planet's orbital variations, are well-established as the pacemaker of Pleistocene climate change [Hays et al, 1976]. However, several hypotheses suggest that these radiation changes cannot account by themselves for the manner in which the ice ages wax and wane. New evidence clearly defines the role of deep ocean circulation during the last deglaciation and supports a stronger connection between deep ocean circulation changes and warming trends. Considering only the effect of solar radiation, climate change such as the transition from the last ice age to the present should occur gradually over several thousand years and should be out of phase in the Northern and Southern hemispheres. However, the last deglaciation was composed of two distinct steps, each of which lasted less than 1 kyr [Fairbanks, 1989] and, apparently, was “felt” synchronously between the hemispheres. Hypotheses proposed to explain this most recent climate change focus either on changes in the level of greenhouse gases, such as CO2, methane, and water vapor, or on large-scale ocean circulation, which delivers heat to high latitudes.
Internet exchange points and Internet routing

The Internet is a network of Autonomous Systems (ASes) comprising of a complex and complicated ecosystem of networks used for a wide variety of applications. ASes exhibit varied functionality and communicate according to predefined rules to maintain distinct business objectives; termed intra-AS relations. These relations are one of two types: customer-provider (hierarchical) or peering (flat). Recent studies of intra-AS relations indicate the gradual transition of the Internet ecosystem from the hierarchical structure to a flatter peering architecture [1]. This infrastructure level flattening is characterized by the constant growth, rewiring and deaths of inter-AS links. Primary driving forces behind these changes are economic; especially the meteoric rise in popularity of organizations such as Facebook, Google, Yahoo and Microsoft, who have lately deployed large, private WAN infrastructures [1]. The transition from the hierarchical Internet has also accelerated with the deployment of multiple Internet eXchange Points (IXPs) worldwide, the facilitator of peering. Numerous peering links (between ASes) at these IXPs have recently been uncovered but their effects on Internet topology and inter-domain routing performance not yet examined.
Genic variation in the coyote, Canis latrans, in Tennessee, U.S.A.

Protein variation, levels of heterozygosity, and interlocality gene variation were studied in the coyote, Canis latrans, using starch gel electrophoresis. Canis latrans were obtained from 27 counties in Tennessee. Eleven of 20 loci examined were found to be polymorphic with the remaining nine loci fixed for the same gene in all populations. Mean heterozygosity (\-H) varied from 0.0% to 1.9% with a mean of 0.9%. These values are low for a mammal. Significant heterozygote deficiencies occurred in most groups. Results of F-statistics indicated a significant degree of population differentiation at four loci (Gdh, Idh-1, Mdh-2, 6-Pgd). Rogers' coefficients of genetic similarity ranged from 0.950 to 1.000 and showed C. latrans to be genetically homogenous in that portion of the range investigated.
Redox and structural properties of mixed-valence models for the active site of the [FeFe]-hydrogenase: progress and challenges.

The one-electron oxidations of a series of diiron(I) dithiolato carbonyls were examined to evaluate the factors that affect the oxidation state assignments, structures, and reactivity of these low-molecular weight models for the Hox state of the [FeFe]-hydrogenases. The propanedithiolates Fe2(S2C3H6)(CO)3(L)(dppv) (L = CO, PMe3, Pi-Pr3) oxidize at potentials ∼180 mV milder than the related ethanedithiolates (Angew. Chem., Int. Ed. 2007, 46, 6152). The steric clash between the central methylene of the propanedithiolate and the phosphine favors the rotated structure, which forms upon oxidation. Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) spectra for the mixed-valence cations indicate that the unpaired electron is localized on the Fe(CO)(dppv) center in both [Fe2(S2C3H6)(CO)4(dppv)]BF4 and [Fe2(S2C3H6)(CO)3(PMe3)(dppv)]BF4, as seen previously for the ethanedithiolate [Fe2(S2C2H4)(CO)3(PMe3)(dppv)]BF4. For [Fe2(S2CnH2n)(CO)3(Pi-Pr3)(dppv)]BF4; however, the spin is localized on the Fe(CO)2(Pi-Pr3) center, although t...
Nutrition risk factors among home delivered and congregate meal participants: need for enhancement of nutrition education and counseling among home delivered meal participants.

The short-term impact of nutrition education and counseling intervention on nutrition risk factors among home delivered (HDM) and congregate (CGM) meal participants using Nutrition Survey Risk Screening was studied. A two-year intervention was conducted with 355 participants (n=259 CGM, n=96 HDM). Various nutrition behaviors that affect the nutrition risk score were compared. Congregate and home delivered meal locations in a northern county of New Jersey. CGM and HDM participants in a northern county of New Jersey age 60 and older. CGM participants received regular topical nutrition education and counseling in a classroom format with cooking demo, discussion, and handouts. The HDM participants only received the printed material (same handouts) and counseling by telephone. Demographics, medical condition, risk factors data were collected. All participants completed the 12 items checklist Nutrition Survey Risk Screening. Nutritional behaviors assessed include number of meals eaten per day, servings of fruits and vegetables and nutrition risk score. A score of 6 or more points was defined as persons at high risk nutritionally. The impact of the intervention was evaluated using ANOVA/chi-square on Nutrition Survey Risk Screening. Nutrition education and counseling intervention improved nutrition risk scores; 5.76 to 5.32 (p=0.14) in CGM, 8.1 to 6.1 (p<0.01) in HDM. A slight improvement in nutrition behaviors was noted: eating ≥ 2 meals in HDM (76 to 81.6 %, p=.310), eating ≥ 5 servings of fruits & vegetables in CGM (38 to 41.4 %, p=. 398). Appropriate nutrition intervention for both HDM and CGM participants can improve health condition and delay chronic diseases. HDM participants need to be a primary focus for more effective nutrition education and counseling.
Snoring and carotid artery atherosclerosis.

Introduction: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) syndrome is a common disorder, especially in middle-aged men, in whom the prevalence is about 4%. Snoring is a feature of OSA but can occur in patients without sleep apnea, with a prevalence of 15% in women and 54% in men. Recent epidemiologic studies have shown that snoring and OSA are risk factors for cerebrovascular disease and stroke [1–3]. It has been hypothesized that snoring can be transmitted through the surrounding tissues of the upper airway to the carotid artery wall. Studies in rabbits have shown that vibration from snoring can be detected in the carotid artery wall and within the lumen [4]. Vibration has been shown to cause damage to endothelial cells in the arterial wall that can lead to an infl ammatory cascade that leads to atherosclerosis [5,6].
Local equilibrium at the superfluid film--vapor interface

The condition of local equilibrium at the interface between the subcritically flowing film and the vapor as developed from two-fluid hydrodynamics is extended to flows including a dissipative region. We find that variations in film thickness at different points along the flow path are established under steady state conditions. Furthermore, dissipation in film flow as measured by chemical potential gradients isprimarily manifested as a film thickness change rather than a film temperature change.
Pre-compensated excitation waveform to suppress second harmonic generation in MEMS electrostatic transducers

Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) electrostatic-based transducers inherently produce harmonics as the electrostatic force generated in the transmit mode is approximately proportional to the square of the applied voltage signal. This characteristic precludes them from being effectively used for harmonic imaging (either with or without the addition of microbubble-based contrast agents). The harmonic signal that is nonlinearly generated by tissue (or contrast agent) cannot be distinguished from the inherent transmitted harmonic signal. We investigated two precompensation methods to cancel this inherent harmonic generation in electrostatic transducers. A combination of finite element analysis (FEA) and experimental results are presented. The first approach relies on a calculation, or measurement, of the transducer's linear transfer function, which is valid for small signal levels. Using this transfer function and a measurement of the undesired harmonic signal, a predistorted transmit signal was calculated to cancel the harmonic inherently generated by the transducer. Due to the lack of perfect linearity, the approach does not work completely in a single iteration. However, with subsequent iterations, the problem becomes more linear and converges toward a very satisfactory result (a 18.6 dB harmonic reduction was achieved in FEA simulations and a 20.7 dB reduction was measured in a prototype experiment). The second approach tested involves defining a desired function [including a direct current (DC) offset], then taking the square root of this function to determine the shape of the required input function. A 5.5 dB reduction of transmitted harmonic was obtained in both FEA simulation and experimental prototypes test.
Bowel dysfunction after laparoscopic antireflux surgery: incidence, severity, and clinical course

Abstract Purpose To evaluate the incidence, severity, and clinical course of postoperative bowel dysfunction, primarily diarrhea, after laparoscopic antireflux surgery. Methods Patients who underwent laparoscopic antireflux surgery during January to December 1998 responded to a questionnaire about pre-existing and postoperative bowel symptoms, which included questions about the type of bowel dysfunction (diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, constipation), onset in relation to surgery, frequency, severity, duration, use of medical resources or diagnostic evaluations, and treatment outcome. Results Of the 109 patients who underwent laparoscopic antireflux surgery at our center during the study, 84 (77%) completed the survey. Thirty-six (43%) had no bowel dysfunction before or after surgery, whereas 29 (35%) had pre-existing bowel dysfunction. New bowel symptoms developed postoperatively in 30 patients (36%), including bloating in 16 (19%) and diarrhea in 15 (18%). Two thirds of the patients with new diarrhea developed it within 6 weeks after surgery. The severity of the diarrhea ranged from mild to debilitating; 4 had fecal incontinence. Most patients (13/15) with diarrhea had symptoms for ≥2 years following surgery. No patient was hospitalized, and only 2 patients reported temporary work loss. Conclusion Postoperative bowel dysfunction, namely diarrhea, is an important adverse effect of antireflux surgery. Awareness of this complication should lead to prompt recognition, effective management, and reduction in anxiety.
Action and Institution, Network and Function: The Cybernetic Concept of Social Structure

A program of research on the formal representation and analysis of institutional structures is taken a step further by integrating it with recent developments in the formal representation of hierarchical levels of inclusion or part-whole relations. We begin by reviewing a cybernetic conception of action and show how this relates to the construction of production system models of institutional structures. Thereafter, we treat the inclusion hierarchy to show how the production rule constitutes the conceptual unit integrating social knowledge and social action upon which are built two hierarchies, involving institutional entities and social networks, respectively. We indicate some of the detailed forms of control involved in these hierarchies and then show how a form of functional analysis can be undertaken on this basis. Finally, we provide a lengthy discussion of the promise and problems of this mode of structural analysis.
Interactive modeling of topologically complex geometric detail

Volume textures aligned with a surface can be used to add topologically complex geometric detail to objects in an efficient way, while retaining an underlying simple surface structure.Adding a volume texture to a surface requires more than a conventional two-dimensional parameterization: a part of the space surrounding the surface has to be parameterized. Another problem with using volume textures for adding geometric detail is the difficulty in rendering implicitly represented surfaces, especially when they are changed interactively.In this paper we present algorithms for constructing and rendering volume-textured surfaces. We demonstrate a number of interactive operations that these algorithms enable.
An Analytical and Experimental Study of a Tire Rolling Over a Stepped Obstacle at Low Velocity

Abstract The ring on elastic foundation (REF) model has been used as a pneumatic tire analog for many types of two‐dimensional contact problems. This paper investigates the suitability of the model to reproduce hub forces during large deformation, quasi-static contact. Two types of tire contact problems are considered in this paper. The first problem is a tire deforming against a flat plate, and the second is a tire rolling over a 50 mm step. The REF model is implemented in a nonlinear, finite element program with elements that accommodate large deformation and contact. Experimental hub force measurements verify the simulation results. This paper shows that the best match with experimental data is accomplished with a model that consists entirely of beam elements and includes a softening foundation. Also, it shows that the hub force is strongly dependent on the radial stiffness of the foundation and the inflation pressure.
Some Terminology and Notation in Information Theory

The main purpose of the paper is to stimulate thought concerning terminology, notation and exposition of some basic parts of information theory. The notation used here is intended to be simple, nearly self-explanatory, readable in words from left to right, and suggestive of new applications. Moreover, sufficient generality is preserved ensure that entropy can be interpreted without necessarily depending on the frequentist definition of probability (as a limiting frequency an infinite sequence of trials). Mention is made of some connections of the theory with inverse probability and with mathematical statistics in general.
THE MARKET MODEL AS AN APPROPRIATE DESCRIPTION OF THE STOCHASTIC PROCESS GENERATING SECURITY RETURNS

The objective of this research was to investigate whether the market model is an appropriate description of the stochastic process generating security returns. In contrast to previous studies which concentrated only on the stationarity of β, the emphasis in this research was to study the stationarity of the entire market model. Four statistical tests, cusum, cusum of squares, moving regression, and time-trending regression, were used. The data base consisted of 200 securities and four time periods. The cusum of squares generally identified the largest number of nonstationary securities. However, the amount and composition of the nonstationary sets varied considerably both by statistical test and time period. The lack of consistency in the stationarity of the market model limits the predictability of stationarity and, hence, hinders the application of the market model. Serious questions are raised as to whether the market model is an appropriate description of the stochastic process generating security returns.
Scaling for the discrete Mathieu equation

The scaling of the total width of the band for the discrete Mathieu equation is studied in the critical region near the transition between localized and extended states, for the special case in which there is one period of the modulation forp lattice spacings. A general expression for the bandwidthW in the critical region is found. At the critical point an analytic expression forpW is found which agrees to one part in 108 with the result deduced from numerical work.
Discrete intermediates versus molten globule models for protein folding: characterization of partially folded intermediates of apomyoglobin.

Background : Although small proteins may fold in an apparent two-state manner, most studies of protein folding reveal transient intermediates. The ‘molten globule' has been proposed to be a general intermediate in protein folding. Relatively little is known about the structure of partially folded intermediates, however. Results : Three different partially folded intermediates of apomyoglobin, having 35%, 50% and 60% helix, were characterized at low pH in the presence of different anions. It was found that increasing helical structure correlated with decreasing size and increasing stability to urea. Similar intermediates have been observed transiently during the folding of apomyoglobin. Conclusions : The results are consistent with a model for folding in which structural units coalesce to form a core of relatively native-like structure, the remainder of the protein being relatively disordered. For a given protein there will be certain partially folded conformations of particularly low free energy that are preferentially populated under both equilibrium and transient folding conditions. The conformation and topology of the intermediates will be specific to a given protein, so there are no ‘general' intermediates, such as the molten globule, in folding.
Not All Created Equal: Individual-Technology Fit of Brain-Computer Interfaces

This work presents a model stemming from literature on task-technology fit that seeks to match individual user characteristics and features of brain-computer interface technologies with performance to expedite the technology-fit process. The individual-technology fit model is tested with a brain-computer interface based on a control signal called the mu rhythm that is recorded from the motor cortex region. Characteristics from eighty total participants are tested across two different sessions. Performance is measured as a person's ability to modulate his/her mu rhythm. It appears that the version of software used in recording and interpreting EEGs, instrument playing, being on affective drugs, a person's sex, and age all play key roles in predicting mu rhythm modulation.
Pollen germination in pyrus species and species hybrids

Pollen germination in most Pyrus species was moderately high, usually averaging above 50 per cent. Five species were completely or nearly pollen sterile: P. nivalisJacq., P. ovoideaeRehd., P. Decaisne, P. salicifolia, var. pendula and P. variolosaWall. Microspores appear plump and normal following microsporogenesis. Degeneration of pollen grains occurred in the post-meiotic phase of pollen maturation.
A two-stage sensing technique for dynamic spectrum access

Dynamic spectrum access (DSA) is a promising approach for the more effective use of existing spectrum. Of fundamental importance to DSA is the need for fast and reliable spectrum sensing over a wide bandwidth. A model for two-stage sensing is described based on an analysis of the mean time to detect an idle channel. Simulation results show that it provides significantly faster idle channel detection than conventional single-stage random searching. Several system-level issues are also investigated including the settling time of the phase-locked loop (PLL) in the frequency synthesizer, which determines the channel switching time. Effects of the bandwidth of the coarse sensing block and the integration duration of the energy detector are also presented.
Optical Image Synthesis (Complex Amplitude Addition and Subtraction) in Real Time by a Diffraction-Grating Interferometric Method

A coherent processing system for obtaining complex addition of two or more patterns in real time is described. In this system, a sinusoidal diffraction grating is used in the spatial-frequency plane. The input patterns to be added are displayed symmetrically about the optical axis in the object plane. The complex amplitude addition appears in th zero-order location in the output plane. Complex amplitude subtraction may be obtained by adding a 180° phase plate behind one of the input patterns. Displacing the sinusoidal diffraction grating by half a line pitch is also shown to change the performance of the system from addition to subtraction for two input functions, without the need for a phase plate. Experimental verification of the performance is presented. Analysis of the system for two input patterns is first given, then extended to the complex addition of multiple inputs.
Future Impacts of Coal Distribution Constraints on Coal Costs

Abstract This study seeks to identify potential capacity constraints within the US rail network that could limit expanded use of coal for electricity generation and hydrogen fuel production. We estimate the costs of alleviating those constraints under various scenarios of future coal demand growth. By 2050, coal transportation is projected to increase 35–90% necessitating rail capital investments of $1.5–11.0 billion. These investments are within the range of historical expenditures in the railroad industry, so it is unlikely that delivered prices of coal will necessarily increase or that rail capacity will be a barrier to a future coal-based “Hydrogen Economy”.
Low-Field de Haas-van Alphen Effect in Zinc

A study of the low-field de Haas-van Alphen effect in zinc, employing automatic recording of the variation of the torque as a function of the reciprocal of the applied magnetic field, has revealed six sets of periods. These periods are assigned in a consistent manner to portions of the free-electron (single orthogonalized planewave) model of the Fermi surface. Cyclotron masses associated with the three larger sets of observed periods are found to agree well with the theoretical estimates. Evidence is obtained for the presence of a spin-orbit energy gap across the hexagonal face of the first Brillouin zone near the corners. Thus, the validity of the single Brillouin-zone construction is demonstrated for zinc.
Heterogeneous graphene–CMOS ternary content addressable memory

Abstract Leveraging nanotechnology for computing opens up exciting new avenues for breakthroughs. For example, graphene is an emerging nanoscale material and is believed to be a potential candidate for post-Si nanoelectronics due to high carrier mobility and extreme scalability. Recently, a new graphene nanoribbon crossbar (xGNR) device was proposed which exhibits negative differential resistance (NDR). In this paper we propose a novel graphene nanoribbon tunneling ternary content addressable memory (GNTCAM) enabled by xGNR device, featuring heterogeneous integration with CMOS transistors and routing. Benchmarking with respect to 16nm CMOS TCAM (which uses two binary SRAMs to store ternary information) shows that GNTCAM is up to 1.82× denser, up to 9.42× more power-efficient during stand-by, and has up to 1.6× faster performance during match operation. Thus, GNTCAM has the potential to realize low-power high-density nanoscale TCAMs. Further improvements may be possible by using graphene more extensively, as graphene transistors become available in future.
An NMR Investigation of the Conformational Effect of Nitroxide Spin Labels on Ala-Rich Helical Peptides

Abstract Nitroxide spin labels, in conjunction with electron spin resonance (ESR) experiments, are extensively employed to probe the structure and dynamics of biomolecules. One of the most ubiquitous spin labeling reagents is the methanethiosulfonate spin label which attaches a spin label selectively to Cys residues via a disulfide bond (Cys-SL). However, the actual effect of the nitroxide spin label upon the conformation of the peptide or protein cannot be unambiguously determined by ESR. In this study, a series of 16-residue Ala-rich helical peptides was characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance techniques. The C α H chemical shift analysis, NOEs, and 3 J NHα coupling constants for peptides with no Cys, free Cys, and Cys-SL (with the N–O group reduced) were compared. These results indicate that while replacement of an Ala with a Cys residue causes a loss of overall helical structure, the Cys-SL residue is helix supporting, as would be expected for a non-β-branched aliphatic amino acid. Thus, the Cys-SL residue does not perturb helical structure and, instead, exhibits helix-stabilizing characteristics similar to that found for Ala, Met, and Leu.
A field study of the impact of gender and user's technical experience on the performance of voice-activated medical tracking application

Abstract Speech recognition is a particularly important technology for mobile computing since it provides a smaller, lighter interface than a keyboard. This paper investigates the impact of user's gender and user's computer experience on the performance of a speech recognition system. Using a field study of 33 users, voice-activated medical tracking application and a mobile healthcare fieldwork environment, we illustrate that the user's gender, user's computer experience and the interaction between the user's gender and computer experience has an impact on the performance of a speech recognition system.
“Calling Cards” for DNA-Binding Proteins in Mammalian Cells

The ability to chronicle transcription-factor binding events throughout the development of an organism would facilitate mapping of transcriptional networks that control cell-fate decisions. We describe a method for permanently recording protein-DNA interactions in mammalian cells. We endow transcription factors with the ability to deposit a transposon into the genome near to where they bind. The transposon becomes a "calling card" that the transcription factor leaves behind to record its visit to the genome. The locations of the calling cards can be determined by massively parallel DNA sequencing. We show that the transcription factor SP1 fused to the piggyBac transposase directs insertion of the piggyBac transposon near SP1 binding sites. The locations of transposon insertions are highly reproducible and agree with sites of SP1-binding determined by ChIP-seq. Genes bound by SP1 are more likely to be expressed in the HCT116 cell line we used, and SP1-bound CpG islands show a strong preference to be unmethylated. This method has the potential to trace transcription-factor binding throughout cellular and organismal development in a way that has heretofore not been possible.
A distributed continuous-time gradient dynamics approach for the active power loss minimizations

In this paper, we consider the non-convex active power loss minimization problem. Under the existence of saddle points and certain mild conditions, we show that a solution to the active power loss minimization can be achieved by applying the gradient dynamics approach. An important feature of this approach is that it is naturally distributed, i.e., each bus in the network only requires the local information from its neighbors and itself for computation. A four-bus simulation example is given to illustrate the distributed structure and convergence of the gradient dynamics. The validity of our approach is also verified by distributedly computing the optimal solutions to the IEEE benchmark systems with 14, 30, and 57 buses.
Microscopy: Label-free nanoscopy of living cells

A holographic microscope capable of dynamically imaging unstained living cells at resolutions beyond the diffraction limit could prove extremely useful for studying biological cells.
Preparing the Nursing Workforce of the Future

Nurse shortages coupled with the need for national healthcare reform present a challenge. We are not preparing enough nurses nor are we preparing nurses with the right skills to fully participate in a reformed healthcare system. Historical forces in nursing education have resulted in multiple levels of entry into nursing practice and an inadequate nursing workforce. Today’s environment of expanding knowledge, the call for interdisciplinary healthcare delivery teams, and evidence of the relationship between nurse education and improved patient outcomes strongly indicate the need for nurses prepared at the baccalaureate level. Requiring a baccalaureate degree for entry into nursing practice, and as the initial degree of nursing education would prepare nurses earlier for graduate education and the much needed roles of educator, researcher and advanced practice nurse. The nursing profession should take the lead in advocating for educational policies that would adequately prepare the nurse workforce of the future.