cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Trends and risk factors for opioid administration for non-emergent lower back pain

Background Non-emergent low-back pain (LBP) is one of the most prevalent presenting complaints to the emergency department (ED) and has been shown to contribute to overcrowding in the ED as well as diverting attention away from more serious complaints. There has been an increasing focus in current literature regarding ED admission and opioid prescriptions for general complaints of pain, however, there is limited data concerning the trends over the last decade in ED admissions for non-emergent LBP as well as any subsequent opioid prescriptions by the ED for this complaint. Aim To determine trends in non-emergent ED visits for back pain; annual trends in opioid administration for patients presenting to the ED for back pain; and factors associated with receiving an opioid-based medication for non-emergent LBP in the ED. Methods Patients presenting to the ED for non-emergent LBP from 2010 to 2017 were retrospectively identified from the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey database. The "year" variable was transformed to two-year intervals, and a weighted survey analysis was conducted utilizing the weighted variables to generate incidence estimates. Bivariate statistics were used to assess differences in count data, and logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with patients being discharged from the ED with narcotics. Statistical significance was set to a P value of 0.05. Results Out of a total of 41658475 total ED visits, 3.8% (7726) met our inclusion and exclusion criteria. There was a decrease in the rates of non-emergent back pain to the ED from 4.05% of all cases during 2010 and 2011 to 3.56% during 2016 and 2017. The most common opioids prescribed over the period included hydrocodone-based medications (49.1%) and tramadol-based medications (16.9), with the combination of all other opioid types contributing to 35.7% of total opioids prescribed. Factors significantly associated with being prescribed narcotics included age over 43.84-years-old, higher income, private insurance, the obtainment of radiographic imaging in the ED, and region of the United States (all, P Conclusion From 2010 to 2017, there was a significant decrease in the number of non-emergent LBP ED visits, as well as a decrease in opioids prescribed at these visits. These findings may be attributed to the increased focus and regulatory guidelines on opioid prescription practices at both the federal and state levels. Since non-emergent LBP is still a highly common ED presentation, conclusions drawn from opioid prescription practices within this cohort is necessary for limiting unnecessary ED opioid prescriptions.
Salvage resection of recurrent previously irradiated brain metastases: tumor control and radiation necrosis dependency on adjuvant re-irradiation.

The efficacy of salvage resection (SR) of recurrent brain metastases (rBrM) following stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is undefined. We sought to describe local recurrence (LR) and radiation necrosis (RN) rates in patients undergoing SR, with or without adjuvant post-salvage radiation therapy (PSRT). A retrospective cohort study evaluated patients undergoing SR of post-SRS rBrM between 3/2003–2/2020 at an NCI-designated cancer center. Cases with histologically-viable malignancy were stratified by receipt of adjuvant PSRT within 60 days of SR. Clinical outcomes were described using cumulative incidences in the clustered competing-risks setting, competing risks regression, and Kaplan–Meier methodology. One-hundred fifty-five rBrM in 135 patients were evaluated. The overall rate of LR was 40.2% (95% CI 34.3–47.2%) at 12 months. Thirty-nine (25.2%) rBrM treated with SR + PSRT trended towards lower 12-month LR versus SR alone [28.8% (95% CI 17.0–48.8%) versus 43.9% (95% CI 36.2–53.4%), p = .07 by multivariate analysis]. SR as re-operation (p = .03) and subtotal resection (p = .01) were independently associated with higher rates of LR. On univariate analysis, tumor size (p = .48), primary malignancy (p = .35), and PSRT technique (p = .43) bore no influence on LR. SR + PSRT was associated with an increased risk of radiographic RN at 12 months versus SR alone [13.4% (95% CI 5.5–32.7%) versus 3.5% (95% CI 1.5–8.0%), p = .02], though the percentage with symptomatic RN remained low (5.1% versus 0.9%, respectively). Median overall survival from SR was 13.4 months (95% CI 10.5–17.7). In this largest-known series evaluating SR outcomes in histopathologically-confirmed rBrM, we identify a significant LR risk that may be reduced with adjuvant PSRT and with minimal symptomatic RN. Prospective analysis is warranted.
Communication: Coherences observed in vivo in photosynthetic bacteria using two-dimensional electronic spectroscopy

Energy transfer through large disordered antenna networks in photosynthetic organisms can occur with a quantum efficiency of nearly 100%. This energy transfer is facilitated by the electronic structure of the photosynthetic antennae as well as interactions between electronic states and the surrounding environment. Coherences in time-domain spectroscopy provide a fine probe of how a system interacts with its surroundings. In two-dimensional electronic spectroscopy, coherences can appear on both the ground and excited state surfaces revealing detailed information regarding electronic structure, system-bath coupling, energy transfer, and energetic coupling in complex chemical systems. Numerous studies have revealed coherences in isolated photosynthetic pigment-protein complexes, but these coherences have not been observed in vivo due to the small amplitude of these signals and the intense scatter from whole cells. Here, we present data acquired using ultrafast video-acquisition gradient-assisted photon echo spectroscopy to observe quantum beating signals from coherences in vivo. Experiments were conducted on isolated light harvesting complex II (LH2) from Rhodobacter sphaeroides, whole cells of R. sphaeroides, and whole cells of R. sphaeroides grown in 30% deuterated media. A vibronic coherence was observed following laser excitation at ambient temperature between the B850 and the B850∗ states of LH2 in each of the 3 samples with a lifetime of ∼40-60 fs.
Model-Based Reasoning for Domain Modeling in a Web-Based Intelligent Tutoring System to Help Students Learn to Debug C++ Programs

The benefits of using Model-Based Reasoning for domain modeling are several-fold. We analyze these benefits and illustrate them in the context of a Web-based Intelligent Tutoring System. The system is designed to teach students to analyze and debug C++ programs for semantic and run-time errors. We have evaluated one instance of the Model-Based tutor, which deals with debugging pointers in C++, in several sections of Computer Science II course. We will present the results of these evaluations, which confirm the learnability of Model-Based tutors.
The effect of nitrogen on low-cycle fatigue mechanisms of austenitic stainless cast steels

The effect of nitrogen on mechanical properties and low cycle behaviour of Cr-Ni-Mn-Mo-Nb-N austenitic stainless cast-steels has been investigated at room temperature. Results obtained are as follows: 1. Nitrogen induces cyclic softening over the composition 0.267 to 0.496 wt % and influences the number of cycles to failure 2. Plastic strain range Delta epsilon_p is determined as a nonlinear function of both a number of cycles N_c and stress amplitude sigma_a (exp(sigma_aC3)) 3. Radial arrangement of dendrites in cast steels has a significant influence on the fracture character 4. In tension as well as in low-cycle fatigue, the interstitial nitrogen promotes planar character of deformation.
Testing a new NIRS method to measure regional mesenteric tissue oxygen saturation in preterm infants that compensates for meconium and transitional stool interference.

Objective: Simultaneous monitoring of cerebral and mesenteric tissue saturations were recorded in preterm neonates using near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) to evaluate if NIRS method can be improved to compensate for the optical absorption properties of stool interference, particularly meconium and transitional stools, in order to reliably measure gastrointestinal (GI) tissue oxygen saturation. Study design: With parental agreement, we used a 4-wavelength cerebral & tissue oximeter (FORE-SIGHT ® , CAS Medical Systems, Branford, CT USA) to monitor premature neonates. The NIRS sensors were placed in the right lower quadrant of the abdomen and the forehead, with continuous data collection every 2 seconds for 72 hours. Simultaneously, continuous peripheral pulse oximetry (SpO2) was recorded. Feeding regimens, stooling patterns and clinical outcomes were recorded. Raw data from FORE-SIGHT were recorded and analyzed using a prototype neonatal stool compensation algorithm. Results: Twenty-three preterm neonates with adjusted gestational ages of 26-34 weeks, weighing 740-1930 grams were studied. NIRS stool interference level was determined for all subjects, and found to be extremely variable. High and Very High stool interference occurred for subjects passing meconium. Moderate and High stool interference resulted in erroneously computed very low GI StO2 using traditional NIRS methods. Stool compensated GI StO2 measurements showed a higher correlation to cerebral SctO2 and pulse oximetry SpO2 in subjects with healthy bowel. Conclusion: Measurement of mesenteric saturations via NIRS proves to be a useful tool in neonates. A NIRS algorithm that compensates for interference caused by meconium and transitional stools shows promising results to measure GI StO2 accurately.
A novel protein family controls trafficking and metabolism of glycosphingolipids (606.9)

Glycosphingolipid (GSL) trafficking and metabolism are closely linked with cell fate determination, balancing signaling cascades controlling proliferation, apoptosis and autophagy. Altered cellular...
Rice Hulls as a Cushioning Material

Rice hulls are a by-product of rice production. It is light, bio-degradable, difficult to burn and less likely to allow moisture to propagate. In this study, rice hulls were used as a cushioning material inside a plastic tote. Its impact absorption property was compared to a 3/16-inch bubble wrap and a 0.129-inch anti-vibration rubber pad. From the same baseline, 1-inch thick rice hulls reduced impact acceleration by 25% as compared with 39% and 42% of bubble wrap and anti-vibration pad with the same thickness, respectively. When wet, rice hulls became denser. Thus, the impact increased at the rate of 0.054% per 1% increase of water per hull weight. To make the use of rice hulls practical, rice hulls were placed in sealed plastic bags. Sealed bags containing rice hulls reduced impact acceleration by 41%, which was comparable with the bubble wrap case due to trapped air inside the sealed plastic bag. Using bubble wraps would be more economical and practical. However, bubble wraps could burst and cushioning property would be lost. A sealed plastic bag with rice hulls inside could burst, but the rice hulls would provide another line of protection. In addition, rice hull is a good thermal insulating material and would be useful in protecting some temperature-sensitive products during the distribution by placing bagged rice hulls in all sides of a tote or box.
A Robot Duo for Cooperative Autonomous Navigation

A team consisting of a master robot and a slave robot is used to perform cooperative navigation tasks. The master tracks a beacon carried by the slave and manages the navigation strategy, using the slave as a portable landmark. A hybrid behavioral architecture is adopted for control and a many-valued logical paradigm allows to fuse heteregeneous informations and to deal with uncertainty. Various localization and navigation exercises have been demonstrated.
Design of a 12-pulse cycloconverter with fault-tolerance capability

In modern high power industrial processes, multipulse cycloconverters are fundamental to feed synchronous motors. Given the importance of these critical processes, especially for mining industry, the reliability of the high power drive is critical. Having a fault-tolerant cycloconverter is quite valuable and it will reduce the economic losses caused by long repair times of the converter. Currently it is difficult and in some cases almost impossible to determine which of the 72 SCRs experiences an over-current or those which do not trigger properly causing a malfunction. In this paper, we present a new fault detection method applied to a 12-pulse cycloconverter in way to develop a converter with the remarkable fault-tolerance capability.
Immunocytochemical localization of a plasma membrane calcium pump in the insect (Lymantria dispar) Malpighian tubule

Abstract The Malpighian tubules of several insects are known to secrete Ca 2+ against its electrochemical potential, however the molecular identities of the Ca 2+ transport pathways have not been determined. We have investigated the identity of the active transport step for calcium secretion in the larval gypsy moth Malpighian tubule, using a monoclonal antibody produced against the human erythrocyte plasma membrane calcium pump (PMCA). Western blot analysis of partially-purified cell membranes from Malpighian tubules showed that the antibody binds to a single prominent protein band with a molecular mass of approx. 143 kDa. This molecular mass is identical to that of the predominant immunoreactive protein in partially-purified membranes from the human erythrocyte. In immunocytochemical studies the anti-PMCA antibody bound predominantly to epitopes positioned along the apical domain of the transporting cells of the larval Malpighian tubule. These epitopes lie along the entire length of the tubule. A phylogenetically conserved PMCA is a likely candidate for active calcium transport across the apical membrane. Immunoreactive proteins were undetectable in Western analyses of partially-purified cell membranes from tubules of the adult gypsy moth, and immunostaining of adult tissue sections was weak or nonexistent. A reduction in immunoreactive protein density in the adult tubule may reflect structural modifications which occur late in the last larval instar or pupal stage.
Recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 for peri-implant bone regeneration: a case report.

Background: Currently, clinicians have a limited treatment arsenal in the repair of peri-implant defects. The aim of the present report is to present the clinical results of treating a dental implant using recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein (rhBMP)-2 in an elderly patient.Methods: A 75-year-old man presented for routine dental prophylaxis. Clinical and radiographic examination revealed significant loss of attachment and bone loss around an implant replacing the maxillary left first molar. The patient did not report any symptoms, and the implant showed no signs of mobility. Because of the severity of the defect, regenerative treatment using a combination of rhBMP-2 and freeze-dried bone allograft was used.Results: The patient was followed for 80 weeks postoperatively. By 28 weeks, significant probing depth reduction and radiographic bone fill was observed, and the original implant crown was replaced. From 28 weeks postoperatively to 80 weeks, no significant clinical or radiographic changes were o...
Identifying students' perceptions of the important classroom features affecting learning aspects of a design-based learning environment

Across several decades, educational researchers have investigated the contribution of the learning environment to the attainment of educational goals, such as improving academic achievement and motivation to learn. The term learning environment not only includes physical activities in the classroom (e.g. experiments kits, computers), but also includes teaching methods, the type of learning in which pupils are engaged, and assessment methods. In this research, we refined an approach to measuring the impact of a variety of classroom features on many different learning outcomes through the lens of students’ perception. A new instrument, the Design-Based Learning Environment Questionnaire (DBLEQ), was field-tested in an eighth-grade USA science classroom setting. This study examined pre-post changes for two different curricula, one emphasising design-based learning (n = 464) and another emphasising scripted inquiry (n = 248). The value of the instrument and ways of analysing its data are illustrated through the range of differences that were found between conditions over time.
Optimal design of robust controllers for uncertain discrete-time systems

This paper presents a fast algorithm for the design of robust output feedback controllers for linear uncertain discrete-time systems. The algorithm utilizes a version of the Broyden-Fletcher-Goldfarb-Shanno (BFGS) optimization method of conjugate directions and minimizes a performance index that includes a linear quadratic regulator (LQR) term to optimize performance and a robustness term based on recently developed bounds. The minimization of only the robustness term which corresponds to the maximization of the uncertainty bound is also studied. The case of unstructured perturbations in A has been the only one studied in the robust controller design literature; the present algorithm introduces a unified approach to both cases of unstructured and structured perturbations in the matrices of a state-space model. For the special case of unstructured perturbations in A only, the algorithm is shown to improve considerably the existing unstructured uncertainty bound. Several examples, including an aircraft cont...
Estimating aboveground biomass for different forest types based on Landsat TM measurements

Forest aboveground biomass (AGB) is an important variable for evaluating ecosystem functions, assessing fire behaviors and impacts, and understanding global carbon balance. Remote sensing technology provides a feasible way to acquire forest stand information at a reasonable cost with acceptable accuracy. This study utilized reflectance in six non-thermal Landsat TM bands and a variety of vegetation indices to identify the relationships between TM data and AGB for different forest types. The field AGB data for testing and validation was from Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) datasets of Georgia forests. The forests were classified to softwoods, hardwoods and mixed forests. The strength of correlation between AGB and TM reflectance and vegetation indices was calculated. Multiple regression analyses were used to develop AGB estimation models. The results indicated that vegetation index was better predictive variable than TM single band reflectance in AGB estimation. The vegetation indices including three or more TM bands were more strongly correlated with AGB and more commonly used in AGB estimation models. Different forest types have different relationships between TM data and AGB. The best TM bands in AGB estimation for different forest types are: TM7 and TM1 for hardwoods forests, TM1 and TM5 for softwoods forests, TM3 and TM5 for mixed forests. Potential errors in our AGB estimates could be associated with effects of soil background, the accuracy of land cover data and sampling errors. The possible way to improve the estimation accuracy can be integration of different sources of remotely sensed data or more stand structure information.
PERIPHERAL ARTERY DISSECTION IN PATIENTS WITH FIBROMUSCULAR DYSPLASIA: A REPORT FROM THE UNITED STATES FIBROMUSCULAR DYSPLASIA PATIENT REGISTRY

Results: Of the 447 patients entered into the FMD registry, 88 (19.7%) had a dissection of a peripheral artery [carotid (68%), renal (22%), vertebral (18%), mesenteric (7%) and other arteries (6.1%)]. Twenty percent of patients had more than one dissection with a maximum of 3. The differences between those patients with and without dissection are shown in the Table. Dissection
STENT GRAFT TREATMENT OF CEREBROVASCULAR WALL DEFECTS : INTERMEDIATE-TERM CLINICAL AND ANGIOGRAPHIC RESULTS

OBJECTIVE Endovascular stent graft (SG) deployment offers a useful vessel-preserving strategy for vascular wall lesions such as pseudoaneurysms and fistulae. Although deployment of expanded polytetrafluoro-ethylene-covered SGs within the carotid and vertebral arteries is technically feasible, data on long-term efficacy, safety, and patency rate remain sparse. METHODS Six patients with traumatic (n = 4), iatrogenic (n = 1), or spontaneous (n = 1) internal carotid and vertebral artery injuries (direct carotid-cavernous fistula, n = 2; pseudoaneurysms, n = 4) were treated with nine balloon-mounted coronary expanded polytetrafluoro-ethylene SGs. Angiographic (mean, 2.3 yr; range, 1.7-4.2 yr) and neurological follow-up (mean, 2.7 yr) was performed for all patients. RESULTS Complete angiographic exclusion of the lesion was achieved by the initial procedure in five of the six patients; one ruptured cavernous carotid aneurysm leading to a direct carotid-cavernous fistula showed persistent slow shunting despite tandem deployment of two SGs. All six patients revealed complete and persistent angiographic obliteration at delayed follow-up, with minimal in-stent stenosis (<20%) seen in two instances. Difficulty with SG navigation was encountered in five patients, resulting in one instance of guide catheter-induced intimal dissection. Type I endoleak was observed in five patients, requiring secondary angioplasty in four patients and deployment of an additional tandem SG in three. CONCLUSION Technical challenges in current-generation SG deployment include sizing, navigation, positioning, and propensity for endoleak. When managed successfully, stent grafting provides a valuable approach for the treatment of vascular wall defects for which vessel preservation is preferred. Intermediate-term safety is satisfactory, with no delayed complications and minimal in-stent stenosis in follow-up periods of more than 2 years.
The Concept of Chastity in Biblical Society

One of the most important characteristics of a society's sexual patterns is its attitude toward female chastity. And yet, though female chastity has played an important role in the mores of Western society, no satisfactory explanation has been presented for this phenomenon. The purpose of this paper is to undertake an analysis of the role of chastity in biblical society in the hope that it may throw some light on this problem. In order to understand the biblical sexual code one must appreciate a fundamental attitude of Hebrew life which has often been neglected its attitude toward Matter. Modern research has disclosed that the Old Testament's outlook is essentially materialistic (Stern, 1957; Cole, 1955). The actions of biblical man are the acts of a material being toward other material beings, and they are essentially related to the worth of physical things. The most fundamental attitude of biblical man toward material things, and the basis of his ethical system, is in the categories of the "Clean" and the "Unclean" (Stern, 1957). The Unclean is essentially synonymous with the Disgusting and the Clean is its opposite. Biblical ethics concerns itself primarily with a classification of material things and acts into the Disgusting and the non-Disgusting. Sexual practices such as bestiality are condemned because they are considered as naturally disgusting. The general biblical ethical problem is, then: how man should act in the world in order to avoid acts which are disgusting and which would produce a general attitude of disgust for the essentially "good" material world. Then, if we are to understand his attitude toward female chastity, we must clearly understand in what way he would consider unchastity as disgusting. And because of his materialistic orientation we shall look for the basis of his attitude in the physical nature of the sexual act. Since the essence of the sexual act is the relationship between two living bodies, in which the male body enters the female body and
Angiolymphoid hyperplasia with eosinophilia: F-18 FDG PET and MR demonstration.

Angiolymphoid hyperplasia with eosinophilia, also known as epithelioid hemangioma, is an uncommon vascular lesion involving predominantly the skin at the head and neck. Most cases have been reported in the dermatologic, ophthalmologic, and otolaryngologic literature. The author presents a rare instance of biopsy-proved deep soft-tissue invasion of this disease, which was demonstrated with positron emission tomography and magnetic resonance imaging.
Effects of Temperature and Humidity on the Characterization of C-4 Explosive Threats

Both the quantity and the amount of time that an explosive is present on the surface of a material is dependent upon the amount of explosive originally deposited on the surface, the adhesive forces, temperature and humidity, as well as other environmental factors. This laboratory study focused on evaluating RDX crystal morphology changes resulting from variations in temperature and humidity conditions of the sample. The temperature and humidity conditions were controlled using a Tenney THRJ environmental chamber and a Tenney T11RC-1.5 environmental chamber. These chambers allow the temperature and humidity to be held within ±3 °C and ±5 % RH. The temperature and humidity conditions used for this test series were: 4 °C/40 %RH, 21 °C/20 %RH (samples left on benchtop), 21 °C/70 %RH, 21 °C/95 %RH, 35 °C/40 %RH, 35 °C/70 %RH, and 35 °C/95 %RH. These temperature and humidity set points were chosen to represent a wide range of conditions that may be found in real world scenarios. C-4 (RDX crystals and binder material) was deposited on the surface of one of six substrates by placing a fingerprint from the explosive block onto the matrix surface. The substrates were chosen to provide a range of items that are commonly used. Six substrate types were used during these tests: 50 % cotton/50 % polyester as found in T-shirts, 100 % cotton with a smooth surface such as that found in a cotton dress shirt, 100 % cotton on a rough surface such as that found on canvas or denim, suede leather such as might be found on jackets, purses, or shoes, painted metal obtained from a car hood, and a computer diskette. The samples were not pre-cleaned prior to testing and contained sizing agents, and in the case of the metal: oil, dirt, scratches, and rust spots. The substrates were photographed at various stages of testing, using a Zeiss Discover V12 stereoscope with Axiocam ICc1 3 megapixel digital camera, to determine any changes in the crystalline morphology. Some of the samples were examined using scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy in an attempt to determine how the explosive was bound to the substrate. This is the second article in a series on the effects of temperature and relative humidity on trace explosive threats.
The idols of inner-sense

Many philosophers hold one of two extreme views about our capacity to have phenomenally conscious experience (“inner-sense”): either (i) that inner-sense enables us to know our experience and its properties infallibly or (ii) the contrary conviction that inner-sense is utterly fallible and the evidence it provides completely defeasible. Both of these are in error. This paper presents an alternative conception of inner-sense, modeled on disjunctive conceptions of perceptual awareness, that avoids both erroneous extremes, but that builds on the commonsense intuitions that motivate them.
Worsening of Vasovagal Syncope After Beta-Blocker Therapy

Head-up tilt test was done in a 27-year-old man with recurrent syncope of unexplained cause. Severe sinus bradycardia and hypotension accompanied by lightheadedness, cold sweating, and nausea occurred at 80° head-up position during 4 μg/min isoproterenol infusion. Oral propranolol, 160 mg/d, in four divided doses, effectively prevented the above-mentioned abnormal vasovagal reflexes; diltiazem was only partially effective while disopyramide, aminophylline, or atropine was ineffective in preventing the abnormal vasovagal reflexes induced by head-up tilt with isoproterenol infusion. However, the patient experienced ten episodes of syncope in 2 weeks after he was discharged from the hospital on a regimen of atenolol, 50 mg/d. His symptoms ameliorated immediately after discontinuation of atenolol therapy and he became free of severe symptoms while receiving fludrocortisone. Thus, we have documented a patient with worsening of vasovagal syncope after beta-blocker therapy.
Hybrid intra-hour DNI forecasts with sky image processing enhanced by stochastic learning

Abstract We propose novel smart forecasting models for Direct Normal Irradiance (DNI) that combine sky image processing with Artificial Neural Network (ANN) optimization schemes. The forecasting models, which were developed for over 6 months of intra-minute imaging and irradiance measurements, are used to predict 1 min average DNI for specific time horizons of 5 and 10 min. We discuss optimal models for low and high DNI variability seasons. The different methods used to develop these season-specific models consist of sky image processing, deterministic and ANN forecasting models, a genetic algorithm (GA) overseeing model optimization and two alternative methods for training and validation. The validation process is carried over by the Cross Validation Method (CVM) and by a randomized training and validation set method (RTM). The forecast performance for each solar variability season is evaluated, and the models with the best forecasting skill for each season are selected to build a hybrid model that exhibits optimal performance for all seasons. An independent testing set is used to assess the performance of all forecasting models. Performance is assessed in terms of common error statistics (mean bias and root mean square error), but also in terms of forecasting skill over persistence. The hybrid forecast models proposed in this work achieve statistically robust forecasting skills in excess of 20% over persistence for both 5 and 10 min ahead forecasts, respectively.
Search for flow induced pressure gradients in superfluid 3HeA

Abstract We have searched for the pressure drops which are a necessary consequence of the dissipation attendant textural motion in 3HeA when uniform bulk superflow exceeds a critical value. We find no reliable pressure signature at a level significantly smaller than expected theoretically. We have modified our sensitive differential pressure gauge by replacing the plastic diaphragm with an extremely thin aluminum film, increasing the resolution by two orders of magnitude. Further investigations are underway.
Optical control of excited-state vibrational coherences of a molecule in solution: The influence of the excitation pulse spectrum and phase in LD690.

Spectral and phase shaping of femtosecond laser pulses is used to selectively excite vibrational wave packets on the ground (S0) and excited (S1) electronic states in the laser dye LD690. The transient absorption signals observed following excitation near the peak of the ground-state absorption spectrum are characterized by a dominant 586 cm-1 vibrational mode. This vibration is assigned to a wave packet on the S0 potential energy surface. When the excitation pulse is tuned to the blue wing of the absorption spectrum, a lower frequency 568 cm-1 vibration dominates the response. This lower frequency mode is assigned to a vibrational wave packet on the S1 electronic state. The spectrum and phase of the excitation pulse also influence both the dephasing of the vibrational wave packet and the amplitude profiles of the oscillations as a function of probe wavelength. Excitation by blue-tuned, positively chirped pulses slows the apparent dephasing of the vibrational coherences compared with a transform-limited p...
Formation and Mechanical Characterization of Ionically Crosslinked Membranes at Oil/Water Interfaces

Here we report on the preparation and mechanical characterization of a 2-D self-assembled membrane formed by ionically crosslinking the polyelectrolyte parts of a gradient amphiphilic copolymer at oil and water interfaces. To fabricate these membranes, chloroform solutions of styrene–acrylic acid copolymers were suspended as pendant drops in an aqueous embedding phase. Due to the amphiphilic nature of these molecules, the copolymer chains migrate to the oil–water interface creating an interfacial layer. Upon the addition of zinc acetate to the embedding phase, crosslinks between copolymer molecules are formed via zinc–carboxylate complexes. While ionically crosslinked block copolymer membranes were critically damaged after one expansion cycle, ionically crosslinked gradient copolymers formed durable membranes that maintained their physical integrity through multiple expansion–compression–expansion cycles. This difference in mechanical behavior is attributed to the fact that gradient copolymers are more effective interfacial modifiers and have a significantly different molecular alignment at the oil–water interface. Additionally by changing the incubation time from 20 to 30 minutes, the low-strain dilatational modulus of these membranes was significantly increased due to higher interfacial coverage and crosslinking density. Longer incubation times also led to a distinct yield point and plastic deformation behavior at larger strains. Further mechanical characterization of the membranes showed that they can be quite robust and that by replacing the internal oil phase with an aqueous solution, future testing of membrane filtration and permeation may be possible.
Tertiary structural elements determine the extent and specificity of messenger RNA editing

The specificity and extent of RNA editing by ADAR enzymes is determined largely by local primary sequence and secondary structural imperfections in duplex RNA. Here we surgically alter conserved cis elements associated with a cluster of ADAR modification sites within the endogenous Drosophila paralytic transcript. In addition to the local requirement for a central imperfect RNA duplex containing the modified adenosines, we demonstrate that a secondary RNA duplex containing splicing signals strongly modulates RNA editing. A subtle non-coding mutation, extending base pairing of this accessory helix, confers significant phenotypic consequences via effects on splicing. Through mutation/counter-mutation, we also uncover and functionally replace a highly conserved intronic long-range tertiary pseudoknot that is absolutely required for deamination of one particular adenosine in the central duplex. Our results demonstrate that complex RNA tertiary structures, which may be difficult to predict computationally, form in vivo and can regulate RNA-editing events.
100: Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation induces corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) expression through MyD88 in trophoblast cells

HORMONE (CRH) EXPRESSION THROUGH MYD88 IN TROPHOBLAST CELLS. OZLEM EQUILS, ANDY UH, CHANTELLE BLUE, GUSTAVO GONZALEZ, CALVIN HOBEL, CedarsSinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Los Angeles, California, University of California, Los Angeles, California OBJECTIVE: To study the effect of infection on placental CRH expression and the molecular mechanisms involved. STUDY DESIGN: We transiently transfected JEG3 syncytiotrophoblast cell line with CRH-luciferase and beta-galactosidase vectors overnight using Fugene (Roche). The cells were then stimulated with different concentrations of LPS (TLR4 ligand) and Pam3Csk (TLR2 ligand) for various durations. CRH expression was determined by luciferase assay and calorimetric galactosidase assay was performed to correct for transfection efficiency. In order to elucidate the molecular mechanism involved, cells were also transfected with dominant negative (DN) nonsignaling MyD88 and TRIF cDNA; alternatively the cells were transfected with cAMP response element (CRE)-luciferase cDNA. cAMP induces CRH expression in the trophoblasts and was used as the positive control. RESULTS: LPS but not Pam3Csk stimulation led to CRH expression in a dose dependent manner at 24 hours. LPS induced CRH expression was significantly lower than that induced by cAMP. In order to assess whether the effect of LPS to induce CRH expression was secondary to the autocrine effect of LPS-induced cytokines, we stimulated naive JEG3 cells transiently transfected with CRH luciferase cDNA with the supernatant obtained from overnight LPS-treated JEG3 cells and observed that supernatant did not induce CRH expression. Expression of DNMyD88 but not DN-TRIF inhibited the LPS induced CRH expression. cAMP but not LPS stimulation induced CRE expression in JEG3 cells. CONCLUSION: TLR4 but not TLR2 stimulation induces CRH expression in trophoblasts through MyD88 but not CRE. This data suggest that infection with Gram-negative bacteria or exposure to LPS may induce placental CRH expression and play role in the pathogenesis of preterm delivery.
Sediment grain size effect on benthic microalgal biomass in shallow aquatic ecosystems

Benthic microalgal biomass is an important fraction of the primary producer community in shallow water ecosystems, and the factors controlling benthic microalgal biomass are complex. One possible controlling factor is sediment grain-size distribution. Benthic microalgal biomass was sampled in sediments collected from two sets of North Carolina estuaries Massachusetts and Cape Cod bays, and Manukau Harbour in New Zealand. Comparisons of benthic microalgal biomass and sediment grain-size distributions in these coastal and estuarine ecosystems frequently showed a negative relationship between the proportion of fine-grained sediments and benthic microalgal biomass measured as chlorophylla. The highest sedimentary chlorophylla levels generally occurred in sediments with lower percentages of fine particles (diameter <125 mm). A negative relationship between the proportion of fine sediments and benthic microalgal biomass suggests anthropogenic loadings of fine sediment may reduce the biological productivity of shallow-water ecosystems.
Tunable flux pinning landscapes achieved by functional ferromagnetic Fe2O3:CeO2 vertically aligned nanocomposites in YBa2Cu3O7−δ thin films

Abstract Functional ferromagnetic (Fe2O3)x:(CeO2)1−x vertically aligned nanocomposite (VAN) layers were deposited as either buffer or cap layers for YBa2Cu3O7−δ (YBCO) thin films. The composition of Fe2O3 dopants in the VAN nanolayers is controlled at 10%, 30% and 50% in order to create different arrangements of Fe2O3 and CeO2 nanopillars and therefore to tune the flux pining landscapes. The composition variation provides tunable and ordered arrangements of magnetic nanodopants and interfacial defects as pinning centers in the YBCO thin films. The superconducting property measurements show that most doped samples obtain a Tc above 90 K and the Jcsf measured at 75 K and 65 K maximized at 3.07 MA/cm2 and 9.2 MA/cm2 for 30% Fe2O3 VAN doped sample. As the temperature decreased to 5 K, the sample with 50% Fe2O3 VAN doped sample show the best pinning effect due to pronounced magnetic pinning effects. This work demonstrates the tunable density of magnetic pinning centers can be achieved by VAN to meet the specific pinning requirement.
Indicators of material hardship and depressive symptoms among homebound older adults living in North Carolina.

This study used the concept of material hardship to understand how unmet needs related to food, housing, and health influence depressive symptoms among homebound older adults (N = 345) in North Carolina. Using data from the Nutrition and Function Study, 37% reported high levels of depressive symptoms and 17.4% indicated not receiving needed health care. Approximately 10% of respondents were food insecure; 30.7% were at risk for food insecurity; and 39.7% reported having to choose between either food and medication or food and paying bills. Adjusted logistic regression model revealed that food insecurity status (OR = 4.9) and age 60–74 y (OR = 2.4) were significantly associated with a greater number of depressive symptoms. Other indicators of material hardship, such as having a major financial difficulty, unmet health need, and inadequate housing, were not significant. By far, food insecurity was the most salient influence on depressive symptoms. These findings have important implications for service provi...
Disability Group Identification and Disability-Rights Advocacy Contingencies Among Emerging and Other Adults

Following social identity theory, the present investigation examines the political benefits of self-identification as a member of the disability community for disability-rights advocacy across college (n = 204), community (N = 93), and international (N = 268) samples of adults with disabilities. Consistent with predictions, emerging adults (EAs) with disabilities (n = 204) demonstrated more political conviction and were twice as likely to be involved in disability-rights advocacy as nondisabled peers (n = 1,111). Studies 2 and 3 revealed that disability identification predicted disability-rights advocacy, preferences for affiliation with other disabled people, and stronger perceptions of solidarity, personal, and group discrimination. Age-group moderated effects in Study 2 such that EAs least identified as disabled reported the lowest levels of solidarity and the least awareness of discrimination. Implications of social identification for the political involvements of stigmatized groups are discussed alon...
Multiple time scales in pulse radiolysis. Application to bromide solutions and dipeptides

Abstract A description is given of how multiple time scales are incorporated into a new computer program for running pulse-radiolysis experiments on a linear accelerator. For any kinetic trace, the data can be presented on ten distinct time scales. The algorithms for doing this are presented. The utility of this procedure is illustrated with the radiolysis of bromide solutions. The kinetic traces are discussed in terms of formation of a BrOH − adduct and its approach to equilibrium with Br − 2 . A second example, with the radiolysis of a dipeptide Met–Met, illustrates the ease of simultaneously determining the yield and decay behavior.
The effect of positive mood on intention to use computerized decision aids

While psychology research has indicated that positive mood enhances cognition and behavior, MIS researchers have largely ignored such potential effects on user acceptance of new IT. Using two cognitive theories on mood and memory, positive mood theory and the affect infusion model (AIM), we developed hypotheses about the contribution of these mood conditions on user acceptance of new IT with two levels of uncertainty. These hypotheses were investigated via an experiment using a computerized decision making aid. We found that positive mood increased acceptance, under both levels of uncertainty. These results held for both induced and naturally occurring positive mood. The results were consistent with positive mood theory but not with the AIM.
Integrating CyberGIS gateway with Windows Azure: a case study on MODFLOW groundwater simulation

The CyberGIS Gateway represents a cutting-edge cyberin-frastructure-based geographic information system that facilitates computationally intensive and collaborative spatial analysis and modeling. As more and more geospatial problems are becoming increasingly computationally intensive and complex to solve, Cloud computing, often characterized as on-demand and elastic, provides promising approaches to these problems. This research has developed an integration framework for CyberGIS Gateway to leverage the Microsoft Windows Azure Cloud platform. The framework is based on a generic architectural design for the CyberGIS Gateway to integrate with Cloud computing environments. This paper describes our initial implementation of the integration framework based on a case study of groundwater ensemble run, and discusses major challenges and future direction for establishing hybrid cyberinfrastructure encompassing both high-end and Cloud computing environments.
Making the Dissonant Act Unreflective of Self Dissonance Avoidance and the Expectancy of a Value-Affirming Response

It was predicted that when a counterattitudinal act is accompanied by the expectation of a future response which can affirm the contradicted attitude or value, dissonance and subsequent dissonance-reducing attitude change would be inhibited, even if the affirming response could not reconcile the specific inconsistency or eliminate the unwanted consequences of the discrepant act. The expectation of a value-affirming response is assumed to provide a context of cognitions in which the single discrepant act can be viewed as less indicative of a self-disposition, and consequently as less important—a perception that should result in less dissonance arousal. This reasoning was supported by the finding that among subjects who wrote counterattitudinal essays opposing more funding for handicap facilities under high choice instructions, those who expected a later, unrelated opportunity to help blind students showed no dissonance-reducing attitude change. Results are discussed as to their implications about the circu...
Leading-Edge Vortex Dynamics on a Slender Oscillating Wing

Experimental data are presented which show the dynamic behavior of the leading-edge vortices on an 80-deg swept delta wing undergoing a wing rock motion. The experiments were conducted in a low-speed wind tunnel, and the model Reynolds number was 315,000, based on the centerline chord. Vortex trajectory data were determined from smoke flow visualization experiments. The photographic data were analyzed to determine vortex position and breakdown information. Significant differences were observed between the static and dynamic vortex core positions and the breakdown locations. The data show the convective lag in the flowfield development on a wing oscillating in roll.
Patterns of event runs in probability learning

Forty-eight Ss were assigned to a 2 by 2 factorial design with two levels of risk (1¢ and A¢) and two levels of sequence (patterned-run distribution and random-run distribution) in a two-choice probability learning task. All Ss received 300 trials. Conditional predictions were not affected by differences in risk. A significant effect of the sequence variable was found in responding conditional on runs of the less frequent event, but not in responding conditional on runs of the more frequent event. It was concluded that Ss respond to certain higher order regularities in the event-run structures.
Naltrexone reduces the relative reinforcing value of nicotine in a cigarette smoking choice paradigm

Rationale Human behavioral pharmacology studies can examine how medications that target different neurotransmitter systems influence different aspects of smoking. Naltrexone and bupropion have been shown to alter ad lib smoking behavior; however, medication effects on nicotine reward in a cigarette choice paradigm have yet to be investigated.
Data Mining based Hybridization of Meta-RaPS

Abstract Though metaheuristics have been frequently employed to improve the performance of data mining algorithms, the opposite is not true. This paper discusses the process of employing a data mining algorithm to improve the performance of a metaheuristic algorithm. The targeted algorithms to be hybridized are the Meta-heuristic for Randomized Priority Search (Meta-RaPS) and an algorithm used to create an Inductive Decision Tree. This hybridization focuses on using a decision tree to perform on-line tuning of the parameters in Meta-RaPS. The process makes use of the information collected during the iterative construction and improvement phases Meta-RaPS performs. The data mining algorithm is used to find a favorable parameter using the knowledge gained from previous Meta-RaPS iterations. This knowledge is then used in future Meta-RaPS iterations. The proposed concept is applied to benchmark instances of the Vehicle Routing Problem.
Evoked Cortical Potentials in Patients with Stroke

The evoked somatosensory potentials recorded from 24 patients with stroke are described. The changes seen in the evoked responses can be correlated with the clinical observations during the acute phase in most instances, although improvement in sensory perception is not accompanied by a parallel recovery of evoked potential amplitude. Cerebral diaschisis may be responsible for bilateral depression of evoked somatosensory potentials in the presence of unilateral infarct.