cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The effect of penning versus picketing on stereotypic behavior of circus elephants

Abstract The behavior of nine female Asian ( Elephas maximus ) elephants who performed two shows each day with a circus that traveled to a new location (40 to 250 km from the previous day's lot) daily or every two days was studied during the 1996 and 1998 seasons. When not performing or working, the elephants were picketed during 1996 in the traditional fashion in two separate groups of 8 and 9 elephants each. During the 1998 season, the same elephants were maintained exclusively in small (approximately 52 m 2 per elephant) portable electric pens. Camera and time-lapse recorders were used to videotape the behavior of each elephant, while picketed or penned, for three ∼24 h periods during the 1996 and 1998 seasons. The behavior of each focal elephant was recorded at 5 min intervals. The amount of time the elephants spent stereotypic weaving was significantly decreased ( P =0.009) by keeping the elephants in pens when compared to picketing. The incidence of all stereotypic behavior (weaving, head bobbing and trunk tossing) was also significantly decreased ( P =0.019) when the elephants were kept in pens. The total amount of time spent performing all stereotypic behaviors (weaving, head bobbing and trunk tossing) was negatively correlated with age when the elephants were picketed in 1996 ( r =−0.71, P =0.031, N =9) and somewhat less correlated with age when penned in 1998 ( r =−0.66, P =0.053, N =9). Time spent performing all stereotypic behavior was not correlated with time spent eating ( P >0.11) or time spent lying ( P >0.24) when the elephants were picketed or penned. Portable electric pens are preferred over picketing because of reduced stereotypic behavior, the elephants are reportedly calmer when out of the pens for work or performances, and the elephants can be kept cleaner.
Reproductive physiology of the clouded leopard: II. A circannual analysis of adrenal-pituitary-testicular relationships during electroejaculation or after an adrenocorticotropin hormone challenge

A circannual analysis was made of serum cortisol, luteinizing hormone (LH), and testosterone concentrations in the male clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosa). Group I males (n = 4), maintained in a standardized environment, were bled serially during a regimented anesthesia/electroejaculation episode occurring monthly (beginning in January, ending in December). Additional sampling intervals were conducted under anesthesia only (control, n = 8), anesthesia plus a single adrenocorticotropin hormone challenge (ACTH, Cortrosyn, n = 4), or anesthesia plus a single 25 micrograms injection of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH, Gonadorelin, n = 4). Group II males (n = 6) from various zoological collections were sampled serially under the same semen collection conditions on one random occasion within the year. Serum cortisol levels were 2 times greater than values measured in comparable studies involving other felid species. Cortisol concentrations were similar during electroejaculation and control (anesthesia only) episodes, and mean levels did not rise as a result of semen collection. Adrenocorticotropin caused an immediate rise in cortisol to levels at least 1.5 times greater than electroejaculated or control counterparts. Mean concentrations of basal cortisol in individual males gradually increased as the year progressed, possibly as a consequence of repeated psychogenic stress. Between seasons, there were no differences in mean LH; however, testosterone levels were greater (p less than 0.05) in the winter compared to all other seasons. There were no differences (p greater than 0.05) between individual males in secretory patterns or mean concentrations of cortisol, LH, or testosterone. Within males, distinct temporal fluctuations were observed in both LH and testosterone during the approximately 80-min sampling interval. Neither LH nor testosterone profiles appeared affected by cortisol patterns during electroejaculation or after an ACTH challenge. A bolus of GnRH induced a marked rise in serum LH and testosterone within 15 and 30 min respectively, indicating that these two hormones were coupled. Both LH and testosterone profiles in Group II males mimicked those in Group I; concentrations of cortisol in Group II males immobilized on one occasion were similar to those of Group I animals sampled from January-May but appeared to be less than values measured from June-December. These data demonstrate that the clouded leopard, compared to other felids, produces markedly elevated concentrations of cortisol, which are likely related to an aggressive behavioral temperament.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Aero Optics of Subsonic Boundary Layers over Backward Steps

An experimental study of the two-dimensional transition from turbulent boundary layer over small backward-facing steps is presented in order to investigate the effect of the separation bubble behind the back-step on the aero-optical environment, as well as to demonstrate the capacity for characterizing complex flow fields using non-intrusive optical measurement techniques such as the Malley Probe. The flow field surrounding backward facing step is characterized using hot-wire anemometry, wall pressure measurements, and the Malley Probe. These measurements are presented for two step heights, and the results are discussed in details. The development of the sub-shear layer is observed behind the step, along with increased levels of OPDrms within the separated region. After re-attachment, an eventual recovery of the boundary layer is observed, although aero-optical levels recover to higher than pre-step levels. A simple model to account for step effects on boundary layers downstream of the back-step is proposed. Also, a relative contribution from the near-wall region of the boundary layer to overall levels of the aero-optical distortions was estimated.
Crisis and continuity : land and town in late medieval Castile

Offers a critical reassessment of the Reconquest of Castile from the Moors in the fifteenth century. Explores the land and climate of northern Castile, the urban and rural society, and the demography and fiscal oppression of the Reconquest.
Voltage-dependent potentiation of L-type Ca2+ channels in skeletal muscle cells requires anchored cAMP-dependent protein kinase.

Abstract Skeletal muscle L-type Ca2+ channels respond to trains of brief depolarizations with a strong shift of the voltage dependence of channel activation toward more negative membrane potentials and slowing of channel deactivation. Increased Ca2+ entry resulting from this potentiation of channel activity may increase contractile force in response to tetanic stimuli. This voltage-dependent Ca2+ channel potentiation requires phosphorylation by cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) at a rate that suggests that kinase and channel may be maintained in close proximity through kinase anchoring. A peptide derived from the conserved kinase-binding domain of a PKA-anchoring protein (AKAP) prevents potentiation by endogenous PKA as effectively as inhibition of PKA by a specific peptide inhibitor or by omission of ATP from the intracellular solution. In contrast, a proline-substituted mutant of AKAP peptide has no effect. Potentiation in the presence of 2 microM exogenous catalytic subunit of PKA is unaffected, indicating that kinase anchoring is specifically blocked by the AKAP peptide. No effects of these agents were observed on the level or voltage dependence of basal Ca2+ channel activity before potentiation, suggesting that close physical proximity between the skeletal muscle Ca2+ channel and PKA is critical for voltage-dependent potentiation of Ca2+ channel activity but not for basal activity.
Reliability and Validity of a Person-Centered Care Staff Survey in Veterans Health Administration Community Living Centers

Purpose The objective of this study was to test and revise a staff assessment of person-centered care (PCC) within the Veterans Health Administration (VA) Community Living Center (CLC) setting. Design and methods Starting with measures of PCC initially developed through the Better Jobs Better Care (BJBC) study, we conducted cognitive interviews with CLC staff to assess applicability to the VA setting. We then (a) modified the questionnaire based on respondent feedback, (b) administered the revised survey via Internet to 265 staff at 8 VA CLCs, and (c) examined the psychometric properties of the revised 50-item BJBC PCC instrument using multitrait analysis. Results Scale reliabilities met the criterion for group comparisons (alpha levels ranged from 0.84 to 0.91). The pattern of item correlations and intra- and interscale correlations indicating convergent and discriminant validity, respectively, were both 100%. Implications Our results support the broader use of the BJBC survey within VA. In addition, given the high levels of internal consistency reliability of the current scales, it is likely that a psychometrically sound short form of the instrument could be created. Further research on construct and convergent validity are warranted to support the broader application of the instrument.
Pilot Study of Functional MRI to Assess Cerebral Activation of Motor Function After Poststroke Hemiparesis

Background and Purpose—Studies of cerebral activation of motor function after ischemic stroke may enhance our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of motor functional recovery, including the ...
An immersed-boundary method for flow-structure interaction in biological systems with application to phonation

A new numerical approach for modeling a class of flow-structure interaction problems typically encountered in biological systems is presented. In this approach, a previously developed, sharp-interface, immersed-boundary method for incompressible flows is used to model the fluid flow and a new, sharp-interface Cartesian grid, immersed-boundary method is devised to solve the equations of linear viscoelasticity that governs the solid. The two solvers are coupled to model flow-structure interaction. This coupled solver has the advantage of simple grid generation and efficient computation on simple, single-block structured grids. The accuracy of the solid-mechanics solver is examined by applying it to a canonical problem. The solution methodology is then applied to the problem of laryngeal aerodynamics and vocal fold vibration during human phonation. This includes a three-dimensional eigen analysis for a multi-layered vocal fold prototype as well as two-dimensional, flow-induced vocal fold vibration in a modeled larynx. Several salient features of the aerodynamics as well as vocal fold dynamics are presented.
Characteristic Infrared Frequencies of 3,3-Diphenylphthalides in the Region of 2000 to 330 Cm−1:

The infrared spectra of ten 3,3-bis(phenyl)-phthalides were obtained in order to select frequencies characteristic of the phthalide ring system, and to observe the effects of phenyl substitution in the 3 position of the phthalide ring system. Bands characteristic of the phthalide ring system per se were observed near 1284 cm−1, 1107 cm−1, 1016 cm−1, 503 cm−1, and 479 cm−1. Bands characteristics of 3,3-bis(phenyl)-phthalides were seen near 632 cm−1, 530 cm−1, and 370 cm−1. The effect of substituents on the 3,3-phenyl rings upon frequency was noted for several bands, bands characteristic of these substituents were also observed These data indicate that the various bands can be used for identification of the 3,3-bis(phenyl)-phthalide structure.
In Situ X-Ray Observations of Dendritic Fragmentation During Directional Solidification of a Sn-Bi Alloy

Dendrite fragmentation is an important phenomenon in microstructural development during solidification. For instance, it plays a key role in initiating the columnar-to-equiaxed transition (CET). Here, we use x-ray radiography to study dendrite fragmentation rate in a Sn-39.5 wt.% Bi alloy during directional solidification. Experiments were performed in which solidification was parallel and anti-parallel to gravity, leading to significantly different fragmentation rates. We quantify the distribution of fragmentation rate as a function of distance from the solidification front, time in the mushy zone, and volume fraction of solid. While the observed fragmentation rate can be high, there is no evidence of a CET, illustrating that it requires more than just fragmentation to occur.
IMPACT OF NEST-SITE SELECTION ON NEST SUCCESS AND NEST TEMPERATURE IN NATURAL AND DISTURBED HABITATS

Nest-site selection behavior is a maternal effect that contributes to offspring survival and variation in offspring phenotypes that are subject to natural selection. We investigated nest-site selection and its consequences in the snapping turtle, Chelydra ser- pentina, in northwestern Illinois. We evaluated nest-site selection at both the microhabitat and habitat patch levels. Turtles selected nest sites with shorter vegetation, more open sand, and fewer cacti than random locations. These microhabitat characteristics described sandy patches where both nest density and success were higher compared to grassy patches in 1999. We subsequently investigated nest-site selection within two discrete subdivisions of the study area that varied in the degree of human disturbance to determine if nesting behavior, nest success, or nest temperatures were affected. The tendency to nest in sandy patches was much stronger at the natural site due to habitat modifications at the residential site that have blurred the distinction between sandy and grassy patches. Additionally, the residential site had a high density of nests within 5 m of houses and a fence (both areas with disturbed habitat similar to sandy patches), compared to the overall density. Thus, nest success associated with sandy patches may be compromised at the residential site; an ecological trap may result in lower nest success in areas with preferred microhabitat char- acteristics. Despite a similar basis for nest-site selection in terms of microhabitat charac- teristics at both sites, nest temperatures were correlated with microhabitat characteristics used to select nest sites only at the natural site. Nest temperatures at the residential site were instead correlated only with the percentage overstory vegetation cover and therefore averaged 2 8C lower than at the natural site, a temperature difference that influenced offspring sex. The higher percentage overstory vegetation cover at the residential site was due to human alterations of the habitat, and may serve to extend the ecological trap biasing the sex ratio of this population. This study illustrates the importance of (1) nest-site selection as a substantive maternal effect, (2) understanding habitat use during crucial life-history events, and (3) the potential for human disturbance to modify offspring phenotypes and negatively impact nest success despite adaptive nesting behavior.
Progress in M‐Theory

After reviewing how M‐theory subsumes string theory, we report on some new and interesting developments, focusing on the “brane‐world”.
Heart Regeneration in Zebrafish

Cardiac injury in mammals and amphibians typically leads to scarring, with minimal regeneration of heart muscle. Here, we demonstrate histologically that zebrafish fully regenerate hearts within 2 months of 20% ventricular resection. Regeneration occurs through robust proliferation of cardiomyocytes localized at the leading epicardial edge of the new myocardium. The hearts of zebrafish with mutations in the Mps1 mitotic checkpoint kinase, a critical cell cycle regulator, failed to regenerate and formed scars. Thus, injury-induced cardiomyocyte proliferation in zebrafish can overcome scar formation, allowing cardiac muscle regeneration. These findings indicate that zebrafish will be useful for genetically dissecting the molecular mechanisms of cardiac regeneration.
The Drosophila inebriated-Encoded Neurotransmitter/Osmolyte Transporter: Dual Roles in the Control of Neuronal Excitability and the Osmotic Stress Response

Water reabsorption by organs such as the mammalian kidney and insect Malpighian tubule/hindgut requires a region of hypertonicity within the organ. To balance the high extracellular osmolarity, cells within these regions accumulate small organic molecules called osmolytes. These osmolytes can accumulate to a high level without toxic effects on cellular processes. Here we provide evidence consistent with the possibility that the two protein isoforms encoded by the inebriated ( ine ) gene, which are members of the Na + /Cl − -dependent neurotransmitter/osmolyte transporter family, perform osmolyte transport within the Malpighian tubule and hindgut. We show that ine mutants lacking both isoforms are hypersensitive to osmotic stress, which we assayed by maintaining flies on media containing NaCl, KCl, or sorbitol, and that this hypersensitivity is completely rescued by high-level ectopic expression of the ine-RB isoform. We provide evidence that this hypersensitivity represents a role for ine that is distinct from the increased neuronal excitability phenotype of ine mutants. Finally, we show that each ine genotype exhibits a “threshold” [NaCl]: long-term maintenance on NaCl-containing media above, but not below, the threshold causes lethality. Furthermore, this threshold value increases with the amount of ine activity. These data suggest that ine mutations confer osmotic stress sensitivity by preventing osmolyte accumulation within the Malpighian tubule and hindgut.
Non-Medical Prescription Stimulant Use in Graduate Students Relationship With Academic Self-Efficacy and Psychological Variables

Objective: The objective of this study was to examine graduate students’ non-medical use of prescription stimulant medication, and the relationship between non-medical use of prescription stimulant...
Semiconductor Device-and-Lead Structure, Reprint of U.S. Patent 2,981,877 (Issued April 25, 1961. Filed July 30, 1959)

Robert Noyce, who co-founded Fairchild Semiconductor in 1957 with seven others including Jean Hoerni and Gordon E. Moore, and went on to found Intel with Moore in 1968, received Patent No. 2,981,877 in 1961 for the first monolithic integrated circuit made of silicon. He and J.S. Kilby are recognized as co-inventors of the integrated circuit. Noyce received the President's National Merit of Science Award in 1979 for his work, as did J.S. Kilby in 1969. Read all seven pages of the original patent filing.
Characteristics and correlates of child discipline practices in substance abuse and normal families.

Sons of substance-abusing (SA+) fathers and sons of control (SA-) fathers were compared on measures of parental discipline, temperament, and problem behavior. It was found that discipline was less effective in 10-12-year-old boys of SA+ parents compared with boys of SA+ parents. Children in the SA+ group also scored higher on the constellation of traits comprising a difficult temperament. IntheSA+group only, parental discipline explained a significant, albeit modest, amount of variance on the Child Behavior Checklist summary scores measuring the externalizing and internalizing behavior of the boys. Temperament did not exercise a moderating influence on the association between parental discipline and behavior.
Fuel minimization of a moving vehicle in suburban traffic

In this paper we study how a driver could use traffic light information in order to adapt his speed profile to save fuel. Some analytical results are developed for simple cases using optimization theory and numerical simulations are performed for more complex cases. Dijkstra's shortest path algorithm is a useful tool to provide optimizing policies.
Calling upon the Sacred: Migrants’ Use of Religion in the Migration Process:

The role of religion in the stages of the migration process has been overlooked by both immigration and sociology of religion scholars. This article draws on the migratory and religious history of a transnational Maya community with members in the western highlands of Guatemala and Houston, Texas. Drawing on field research of Mayas in both the sending and receiving areas, we show how migrants use religion in the following stages of the migration process: 1) decisionmaking; 2) preparing for the trip; 3) the journey; 4) the arrival; 5) the role of the ethnic church in immigrant settlement; and 6) the development of transnational linkages.
The Relationship of Three Cortical Regions to an Information-Processing Model

This research tests a model of the computational role of three cortical regions in tasks like algebra equation solving. The model assumes that there is a left parietal region-of-interest (ROI) where the problem expression is represented and transformed, a left prefrontal ROI where information for solving the task is retrieved, and a motor ROI where hand movements to produce the answer are programmed. A functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study of an abstract symbolmanipulation task was performed to articulate the roles of these three regions. Participants learned to associate words with instructions for transforming strings of letters. The study manipulated the need to retrieve these instructions, the need to transform the strings, and whether there was a delay between calculation of the answer and the output of the answer. As predicted, the left parietal ROI mainly reflected the need for a transformation and the left prefrontal ROI the need for retrieval. Homologous right ROIs showed similar but weaker responses. Neither the prefrontal nor the parietal ROIs responded to delay, but the motor ROI did respond to delay, implying motor rehearsal over the delay. Except for the motor ROI, these patterns of activity did not vary with response hand. In an ACT-R model, it was shown that the activity of an imaginal buffer predicted the blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) response of the parietal ROI, the activity of a retrieval buffer predicted the response of the prefrontal ROI, and the activity of a manual buffer predicted the response of the motor ROI.
COMPUTER-PROGRAMMED INSTRUCTION: THE RELATION OF REQUIRED INTERACTION TO PRACTICAL APPLICATION

Computers were used to evaluate the effects of supplying answers to programmed instruction frames. A group experimental design compared passive reading, covert responding to frame blanks, and actively typing answers to blanks with and without immediate confirmation of correctness. Effects of a 315-frame program, teaching elements of programmed instruction design, were evaluated by analyzing answers to posttest generalization questions and an application test. Results strongly supported the effectiveness of requiring the student to supply fragments of a terminal repertoire while working through a program. Students who could either covertly respond to frame blanks or who were required to type frame answers performed significantly better on the frame generalization posttest and, more importantly, carefully followed program rules when preparing elements of a new instructional program.
Effect of pellet diameter in broiler starter diets on subsequent performance.

SUMMARY Differently sized dies were used to pellet broiler starter diets formulated to meet typical commercial standards. From 0 to 13 d of age, birds in floor pens were assigned different feed forms, such as mash, crumble, or pellets made by using 1.59- and 3.17-mm dies, followed by common grower and finisher diets pelleted with a 4.76-mm die fed to 41 d. During the first 13 d, birds fed the crumble diet and the 1.59- and 3.17-mm die diets had greater BW and more efficient feed conversion than did birds fed the mash feed; however, when all birds were placed on a common pelleted feed from 13 to 41 d, these positive effects dissipated as the birds grew older. Significant differences in feed intake were observable only at 13 d. Birds fed the diet pelleted with a 1.59- or 3.17-mm die had higher feed consumption than did birds fed the mash feed, but the feed intake was similar when birds were fed either the crumble or mash diet. Significant linear regressions were observed between BW or feed intake at 13 d and at 34 or 41 d. According to these correlations, the numerical differences in BW or feed intake at 7 d were maintained up to 34 or 41 d. It was likely that a 3.17-mm die diet was suitable for the starter diet because these birds became accustomed to a larger pellet size, thereby increasing the feed intake in subsequent periods. These data indicate that the small pellet diameters could be beneficial during the starter period and on subsequent performance.
Vehicle tracking from disparate views

Most approaches to vehicle tracking have adopted a single calibrated camera for the task, which leads to an under-conditioned problem. We present a surveillance system for on-line vehicle tracking based on two cameras and structure from motion (SfM). Our surveillance system starts by tracking feature points. A novel matching scheme is proposed that allows a subset of feature points to be corresponded across disparate views. Based on the reconstructed subset, the full set of feature points are reconstructed in 3D and segmented into different vehicles by solving a multiple labeling problem.
Robust Controller Using Polynomial Chaos Theory

This paper describes the application of Polynomial Chaos Theory, PCT, to create a robust controller. It describes a two-degrees-of-freedom controller that uses the measured states as well as the estimated uncertainty of the measured states as feedback. Using the measured states as feedback rejects disturbances, while using the feedback of the uncertainty states compensates for the inadequacies of the feed-forward gain in the presence of parametric changes. The PCT controller utilizes a PCT observer to estimate the uncertainty on the measured states. Because the uncertain states are estimated in closed loop, run-time changes in parameters directly affect the uncertainty estimation. Therefore, estimating uncertainty can compensate for parameter changes in the model. This paper provides experimental results of this novel controller design methodology using a buck converter as an example.
Is the Emerging Non-Farm Market Economy the Route Out of Poverty in Vietnam?

Are the household characteristics that are good for the transition to a more diversified market-oriented economy in Vietnam also important for reducing poverty? Or are there trade-offs? The determinants of both poverty incidence and participation in rural off-farm activities are modeled as functions of household and community characteristics using comprehensive national household surveys for 1993 and 1998. While there are some common causative factors, such as education and region of residence, the processes determining poverty and inhibiting diversification are clearly not the same. Participation in the emerging rural non-farm market economy will be the route out of poverty for some, but certainly not all, of Vietnam's poor.
Rebuttal from Michael B. Reid, Andrew R. Judge and Sue C. Bodine

The arguments put forward by Phillips and McGlory do not take into consideration advances in the field over the past 5 years. These new discoveries have provided critical information on disuse atrophy in both human and rodent muscle. They also call into question key elements of our opponents’ reasoning. The assertion that disuse atrophy largely reflects a decline in protein synthesis is based solely on data from human vastus lateralis muscle. Recent studies demonstrate the limitations of this approach. For example, during cast immobilization, disuse atrophy occurs in a variety of leg muscles at least 2 weeks before significant atrophy is detectable in vastus lateralis (Psatha et al. 2012), suggesting the response of vastus lateralis is delayed relative to other muscles. New data also show that atrophy of vastus lateralis is non-uniform, affecting some regions more than others (Miokovic et al. 2012). Such confounding variables preclude the use of localized measurements in vastus lateralis, indeed any single muscle, as the sole source of information on disuse atrophy. Our opponents argue for limiting research to human vastus lateralis because ‘inherent species-specific differences’ exist between rodent and human muscles. Again, a plethora of recent research has debunked this misconception. As in rodent limb muscle, new data show that human type I fibres undergo greater atrophy than human type II fibres in soleus, gastrocnemius and vastus lateralis muscles after prolonged unloading (Fitts et al. 2010; Brocca et al. 2012). As in rodents, disuse atrophy of human muscle can be detected in as few as 4–5 days (Suetta et al. 2012; Wall et al. 2014), causes losses of up to 2.5–6% per day (Suetta et al. 2012; Grosu et al. 2012; Wall et al. 2014), and occurs at rates that differ widely among human muscles (Belavý et al. 2009; Miokovic et al. 2012; Psatha et al. 2012). Recent data also confirm that human muscle mimics rodent muscle by upregulating proteolytic gene products (Suetta et al. 2012). This consistency among species is fundamental, broad based, and compelling. It provides a solid scientific foundation for translational research in the field. Preclinical studies in rodents have been instrumental in defining the mechanisms of disuse atrophy, identifying atrophy-related pathways, and discovering genes that regulate the process. Rodent research has also demonstrated that proteolytic blockade can inhibit disuse atrophy (Jamart et al. 2011; Talbert et al. 2013), establishing a causal role for proteolysis. Modern evidence leads to the inexorable conclusion that proteolysis is not simply important for disuse atrophy. It is essential.
Consumer Perceptions of Business Ethical Behavior in Former Eastern Block Countries

The Business Ethics Index (BEI), measuring consumer perceptions of ethical business behavior, was extended to four ex-communist countries (Russia, Poland, Romania, and Bulgaria). For Bulgaria, the two past dimensions are on the negative side of the scale. However, Bulgarians seem to be optimistic for the future ethical behavior of businesses. The same optimism about the future is observed for all four countries with Romania having the highest scores. Three hypotheses are proposed for the unusually high scores of the past ethical perceptions expressed by Russians.
Computational analysis of HRCT images for characterization and differentiation of ILD and COPD

Several image metrics have been proposed for pulmonary assessment via thoracic high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) for various pathologies. This paper describes a systematic analysis of several such metrics for differentiating between interstitial lung disease (ILD) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). HRCT inspiratory and expiratory images for 14 patients with ILD and 11 patients with COPD were acquired retrospectively. Data from pulmonary function testings (PFT) were also acquired retrospectively for each patient. Using a discriminative subset of image metrics, our study shows that computational analysis of thoracic HRCT images permits differentiation between ILD and COPD groups.
Further Analysis of Transmission-Line Directional Couplers

The conditions of infinite directivity for transmissionline directional couplers are derived in a general and rigorous way. Exact expressions valid for any degree of coupling are found. The case of small coupling and the case of a matched primary line are considered as particular cases of this general analysis. In the case of small coupling, the condition Z11Z44 = 1 and Z22Z33 = 1 given by W. L. Firestone in a recent paper are found to be correct; it is shown also that these simple conditions do not apply anymore when the coupling becomes large.
Oceanic Rainfall Estimation: Sampling Studies of the Fractional-Time-in-Rain Method

Abstract The relationship between monthly mean area-averaged rainfall and monthly mean fractional rainfall occurrence is used to develop a new method of open ocean rainfall estimation. This method uses acoustic sensors attached to drifting buoys to sample rainfall occurrence in space and time. The fractional rainfall occurrences measured by the sensors are used in a linear relationship to estimate monthly rainfall averaged over large (i.e., 2.5° × 2.5°) areas. This estimation method is tested for different scenarios using a stochastic model. Results support the feasibility of this new rainfall estimation scheme. Simulations show that the existing density of drifting buoys is inadequate, but densities around 10 times the existing density will give correlation coefficients between estimated and true rainfall around 0.55. Estimates obtained with this method may be used to calibrate and/or validate the satellite-based methods of open ocean rainfall.
A New Nearctic Species of Cluzobra (Diptera: Sciaroidea: Sciophilinae)

ABSTRACT: Only a single species of Cluzobra, a principally Neotropical genus of fungus gnats, has been described from North America. A new species, Cluzobra demayi with distinct male terminalia is described from the Florida Keys. Vockeroth (1981) indicates the presence of an undescribed specimen from Louisiana.
Systems Approaches to Tackling Configuration Errors: A Survey

In recent years, configuration errors (i.e., misconfigurations) have become one of the dominant causes of system failures, resulting in many severe service outages and downtime. Unfortunately, it is notoriously difficult for system users (e.g., administrators and operators) to prevent, detect, and troubleshoot configuration errors due to the complexity of the configurations as well as the systems under configuration. As a result, the cost of resolving configuration errors is often tremendous from the aspects of both compensating the service disruptions and diagnosing, recovering from the failures. The prevalence, severity, and cost have made configuration errors one of the most thorny system problems that desire to be addressed.This survey article provides a holistic and structured overview of the systems approaches that tackle configuration errors. To understand the problem fundamentally, we first discuss the characteristics of configuration errors and the challenges of tackling such errors. Then, we discuss the state-of-the-art systems approaches that address different types of configuration errors in different scenarios. Our primary goal is to equip the stakeholder with a better understanding of configuration errors and the potential solutions for resolving configuration errors in the spectrum of system development and management. To inspire follow-up research, we further discuss the open problems with regard to system configuration. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first survey on the topic of tackling configuration errors.
Animal and Plant Fats Selectively Modulate Oxidizability of Rabbit LDL and LDL-Mediated Disruption of Endothelial Barrier function

Enrichment of lipoproteins with fatty acids derived from animal and/or plant fats may modify the oxidizability of lipoproteins and their effects on endothelial barrier function. To test this hypothesis, rabbits were fed for 30 days diets containing 2 g corn oil/100 g diet (low fat diet) or low fat supplemented with 16 g/100 g diet of corn oil, corn oil with added cholesterol, milk fat, chicken fat, beef tallow or lard. Compared with those fed the low fat, serum and LDL cholesterol concentrations were significantly lower in rabbits fed corn oil and greater in animals fed corn oil with added cholesterol or chicken fat. In contrast to the cholesterol data, lipid hydroperoxide levels were highest in oxidized LDL derived from rabbits fed corn oil or lard. LDL vitamin E levels were highest in rabbits fed corn oil with added cholesterol. The significant elevations in linoleic acid [18 :2(n-6)] in serum and LDL may partially explain the high oxidizability of LDL in rabbits fed corn oil. LDL isolated from animals fed corn oil, lard or milk fat had significantly greater albumin transfer across cultured endothelial monolayers compared with those of the low fat diet group. Their oxidative modification further contributed to endothelial barrier dysfunction. Dietary cholesterol supplementation to the corn oil diet decreased the oxidizability of LDL and partially protected the oxidized LDL-mediated endothelial cell dysfunction as compared with the corn oil diet group. These data suggest that beef tallow and chicken fat are the least atherogenic fats if oxidative modification of LDL is a critical issue in atherosclerosis. J. Nutr. 125 : 2045-2054, 1995.
Placental perfusion device.

A P L A c E N T A L perfusion device is presented which offers several significant improvements over previous devices1T5: 1. Venous drainage is through outlets evenly distributed among the spiral arterioles rather than by means of a “marginal sinus.“6 2. Spiral arteriole input is through 121 coneshaped apertures which empty into the intervillous space. Cannulas which may perforate the placental substance are avoided. 3. It is simple to construct.
Like Needles in a Haystack Assessing the Impact of Commercial Dynamics at National Public Radio, 2000–2010

In a culture that is increasingly colonized by commercial dynamics, it is important to observe how pervasive commercialization has become, particularly with respect to institutions intended to eschew such effects. This study is a longitudinal content analysis of National Public Radio (NPR) news stories over the last decade that examines the content of the stories on its flagship programs Morning Edition and All Things Considered to assess whether the network has changed, presenting a more commercial rationality. Research has demonstrated that a more market-driven quest for revenue has impacted programming, rendering it more formatted and homogeneous. Amid a decline in government funding, NPR has further embraced a programming model reflecting a more commercial tone in its news content. The data from the content analysis reveal mixed and tempered results, indicating some movement toward more commercially driven content in certain areas, particularly with a decrease in the amount of stories featuring divers...
Three New Species of Chiggers (Acari: Trombiculidae) from Brazil

Microtrombicula rhipidomysi from Rhipidomys masticalis, Colicus brasilieiisis from Oryzomys fornesi and Oryzomys subflavus , and Kymocta lutui from Zygodontomys lasiurus lasiurus are described as new from specimens collected in Brazil.
Peritoneal fluid and serum steroids in infertility patients

Peritoneal fluid and serum were collected from 78 patients at the time of laparoscopy. Twenty-two were fertile controls (CTL), and 56 were infertility patients, who were subdivided into three main groups: endometriosis (EMS), pelvic adhesions (ADH), and ovarian dysfunction (OvDF). Based on control group data, biochemical criteria indicative of the presence of a stigma, S( + ), were established: (1) serum progesterone (P)≥2ng/ml, (2) peritoneal fluid P≥50ng/ml, and (3) peritoneal fluid/serum ratio of P≥3. Direct visualization by laparoscopy showed that 21% CTL, 75% EMS, 69% ADH, and 56% OvDF subjects had luteinized unruptured follicle (LUF) syndrome. Biochemical criteria, however, demonstrated only 7% CTL, 37% EMS, 23% ADH, and 56% OvDF subjects had LUF. Peritoneal fluid estradiol (E 2 and P concentrations and total content were significantly lower in LUF than in nonLUF patients, whereas serum E 2 and P concentrations were not different between the two groups. Values for testosterone and androstenedione in peritoneal fluid and serum were similar between these two groups. Endometrial dating in LUF versus non-LUF patients were also similar. The usual indicators of ovulation, i.e., serum P, endometrial dating, and basal body temperature, failed to identify LUF. The diagnosis of LUF can be best made by P assay of peritoneal fluid and serum.
Intramedullary fixation of metatarsal fracture and nonunion : two methods of treatment

Fracture of a metatarsal is one of the most common fractures in the foot. The location of the fracture depends to some extent on the metatarsal involved, the activity, and the foot shape. The goal of treatment is to achieve a successful outcome and to avoid prolonged disability. This article covers patient selection, surgical technique, and postoperative care.
Financial Fragility, Medical Problems, and the Bankruptcy System

This paper, finalized in 2013, is the penultimate version of a chapter in Working and Living in the Shadow of Economic Fragility (Marion G. Crain & Michael Sherraden eds. 2014) and is relevant to claims made in current debates about health care finance. Following up on our article Managing Medical Bills on the Brink of Bankruptcy, the paper synthesizes disparate research connecting medical problems and bankruptcy filings. The paper also presents new findings on the coping mechanisms used by financially distressed households before bankruptcy – including medical provider payment plans, pawn shops and payday loans, and informal arrangements with friends and family.
Eosinophil-Associated Ribonucleases

Publisher Summary This chapter provides an overview of eosinophil-associated ribonucleases. The chapter discusses in detail about eosinophil-derived neurotoxin (EDN) and eosinophil cationic protein (ECP), two members of the ribonuclease superfamily, that are extracellular ribonucleases having cytotoxic capabilities. Although cytotoxicity is important for immunity to parasites, it may have deleterious effects, similar to the Gordon phenomenon, in diseases associated with increased numbers of eosinophils. Despite the observation that EDN can cause cell death through RNA degradation and inhibition of protein synthesis, additional experiments are needed to conclude that neurotoxicity and helminthotoxicity are caused by ribonuclease activity. In addition, evidence exists indicating that a ribonuclease-inactive mutant of ECP is bactericidal. If ribonuclease activity is responsible for EDN toxicity, there must be specific mechanisms by which EDN can enter the cell. Through this type of specific interaction, many proteins with similar enzymatic activity could have very diverse biological functions. This chapter discusses the historical evolution of the eosinophil, Gordon phenomenon, and eosinophilia. The chapter explains purification of EDN. General sequence characteristics, glycosylation, enzymatic activity, helminthotoxicity, and neurotoxicity of EDN are also discussed. The chapter concludes with discussing the inhibition of protein synthesis and cytotoxicity related to ECP.
Stereotactic robot-assisted MRI-guided laser thermal ablation of radiation necrosis in the posterior cranial fossa: technical note

Laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat a variety of intracranial lesions. Utilization of robotic assistance with stereotactic procedures has gained attention due to potential for advantages over conventional techniques. The authors report the first case in which robot-assisted MRI-guided LITT was used to treat radiation necrosis in the posterior fossa, specifically within the cerebellar peduncle. The use of a stereotactic robot allowed the surgeon to perform LITT using a trajectory that would be extremely difficult with conventional arc-based techniques. A 60-year-old man presented with facial weakness and brainstem symptoms consistent with radiation necrosis. He had a history of anaplastic astrocytoma that was treated with CyberKnife radiosurgery 1 year prior to presentation, and he did well for 11 months until his symptoms recurred. The location and form of the lesion precluded excision but made the patient a suitable candidate for LITT. The location and configuration of the lesion required a trajectory for LITT that was too low for arc-based stereotactic navigation, and thus the ROSA robot (Medtech) was used. Using preoperative MRI acquisitions, the lesion in the posterior fossa was targeted. Bone fiducials were used to improve accuracy in registration, and the authors obtained an intraoperative CT image that was then fused with the MR image by the ROSA robot. They placed the laser applicator and then ablated the lesion under real-time MR thermometry. There were no complications, and the patient tolerated the procedure well. Postoperative 2-month MRI showed complete resolution of the lesion, and the patient had some improvement in symptoms.
The Role of Hypoxia in Radiation Response

Radiation is a very effective form of cancer therapy but its effectiveness is significantly influenced by changes in the levels of oxygen, nutrients and pH in the tumor microenvironment. Radiation dose is also limited by normal tissue toxicity, which can manifest itself both in early effects as well as in late effects. Therefore, approaches aimed at improving the therapeutic window for radiotherapy should consider both the effects of the tumor microenvironment such as hypoxia, and also target pathways that may reduce radiation-induced normal tissue toxicity. With these concepts in mind, we review the biological consequences of tumor hypoxia and the effects of hypoxia/HIF on tumor radiation sensitivity as well as the effects of targeting the HIF/PHD axis for normal tissue radioprotection.
Molecular and electronic structures of cerium and cerium suboxide clusters

The anion photoelectron (PE) spectra of Ce2Oy− (y = 1, 2), Ce3Oy− (y = 0–4), Ce4Oy− (y = 0–2), and Ce5Oy− (y = 1, 2) are reported and analyzed with supporting results from density functional theory calculations. The PE spectra all exhibit an intense electronic transition to the neutral ground state, all falling in the range of 0.7 to 1.1 eV electron binding energy, with polarization dependence consistent with detachment from diffuse Ce 6s-based molecular orbitals. There is no monotonic increase in electron affinity with increasing oxidation. A qualitative picture of how electronic structure evolves with an oxidation state emerges from comparison between the spectra and the computational results. The electronic structure of the smallest metallic cluster observed in this study, Ce3, is similar to the bulk structure in terms of atomic orbital occupancy (4f 5d2 6s). Initial cerium cluster oxidation involves largely ionic bond formation via Ce 5d and O 2p orbital overlap (i.e., larger O 2p contribution), with ...
Development of the RF electronics unit for NASA's ecological synthetic aperture radar

In its Carbon Cycle research efforts, prioritized by the National Science Foundation Decadal Survey and mandated by the US Congress, NASA is developing an airborne P-band Ecological Synthetic Aperture Radar called EcoSAR. By using polarimetric and interferometric techniques, and a digital beamforming phased-array architecture, EcoSAR will characterize biomass and ecological structure in three dimensions aboard a P-3 aircraft. One of the main components in the EcoSAR instrument development is the 32 channel RF Electronics Unit (REU). The multi-channel solid-state REU design provides amplification, conditioning, blanking, and several calibration schemes to meet EcoSAR's science and engineering requirements. The design, assembly, and testing of the REU is well underway with 16 of 32 channels completed. The remaining channels are nearly finished. The REU once complete, will be calibrated and integrated with the rest of the system in preparation for EcoSAR's first flight campaign.
Worst-case sensitivity analysis (WCSA) by particle swarm optimization (PSO): Applications in realistic optimal antenna designs

In practical implementation of engineering designs, the design performances may be subject to tolerances and uncertainties. Relying on a worst-case error tolerance model, this paper proposes the particle swarm optimization (PSO) as an approach of the worst-case sensitivity analysis (WCSA). The proposed method utilizes the absorbing boundary condition in PSO, thereby improving its ability to search the worst-case solution. Numerical tests demonstrate that PSO outperforms GA, vertex prediction, and random search in WCSA problems. The effectiveness of the concepts presented in this paper are examined through the analysis of etching tolerances applied to the design of a 60GHz microstrip patch antenna.