cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Chronic effects of nicotine on gastric secretion in rats with hypothalamic lesions.

The gastric secretory response to chronic injections of nicotine (2000 µg base /kg/day for 14 days) was studied in 2-hour pylorus-ligated male Sprague-Dawley rats (256.8±1.3 g). In sham anterior hypothalamic-lesioned animals, nicotine produced an increase in gastric juice volume and in acid and pepsin outputs. After bilateral electrolytic destruction of the anterior hypothalamic area or the rostral portion of the ventromedial nucleus, the response to chronic nicotine administration was abolished. Bilateral electrolytic lesions in the posterior hypothalamus did not block the gastric secretory stimulation produced by nicotine, whereas bilateral abdominal vagotomy did. It is concluded that the gastric secretory stimulation produced by the chronic administration of nicotine is mediated via the anterior hypothalamic area, the ventromedial nucleus in the anterior hypothalamus and the vagus nerves.
Technique for continuous tuning of optical fiber lasers

For the first time to the authors' knowledge, we have demonstrated how thermally controlled overcoupled fused fiber couplers and fiber loop mirrors based on these couplers can be used as broadband tuning elements in a fiber laser cavity. No bulk optical elements play any role in this technique. Temperature tuning the coupler results in a shift in the coupling ratio or in the effective output coupler transmission. For a fixed pump source, and for a given laser cavity, this shift causes the lasing wavelength to shift. We have continuously tuned an Er silica fiber laser in this manner over the range of 1527-1570 nm in a ring configuration, and, using a fiber loop mirror with these couplers in a linear Tm silica fiber laser cavity, we have achieved more than 50-nm broadband tuning over the range of 1850-1910 nm. The tuning range and the sensitivity to temperature depend on the degree of overcoupling of the loop mirror coupler.
A dynamic interactive vehicle model for modelling traffic beyond the microscopic level

Recent developments of inter-vehicular wireless communication technologies have motivated many innovative applications aiming at significantly increasing traffic throughput and improving highway safety. Powerful traffic simulation is an indispensable tool for developing these applications and studying their effects before large-scale deployment. One of the necessary advances to such a tool is to incorporate vehicle dynamics in traffic simulation so that the effects of improved driving strategies and cooperation between drivers can be examined at a great level of detail. Existing dynamic vehicle models, owing to their complexity for high modelling fidelity, are not suited for efficient traffic simulation involving many vehicles. To fill the gap, we propose a simple Dynamic Interactive Vehicle (DIV) model that requires little calibration effort and fewer computational resources. The DIV model takes as input a driver's desired acceleration, deceleration and steering, and outputs vehicle dynamic responses, including longitudinal and lateral accelerations and yaw velocity.
Causal diagrams for empirical research

SUMMARY The primary aim of this paper is to show how graphical models can be used as a mathematical language for integrating statistical and subject-matter information. In particular, the paper develops a principled, nonparametric framework for causal inference, in which diagrams are queried to determine if the assumptions available are sufficient for identifying causal effects from nonexperimental data. If so the diagrams can be queried to produce mathematical expressions for causal effects in terms of observed distributions; otherwise, the diagrams can be queried to suggest additional observations or auxiliary experiments from which the desired inferences can be obtained.
Preparation of bovine platelet aggregating factor (PAF).

Abstract A simple four step procedure for the preparation of bovine platelet aggregating factor (PAF)1 is described. The final product is obtained in good yield. After reduction, the product gives one main band with polyacrylamide sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) disc electrophoresis that stains for protein and carbohydrate and has an approximate molecular weight of 260,000. Before reduction, electrophoresis of the product on two percent agarose in SDS shows a series of high molecular weight aggregates ranging in molecular weight from 1.15 to 12 million.
Binge eating and associated habit patterns within college student and identified bulimic populations

The purpose of this study was to assess commonalities in binge eating and other problem behavior patterns in male and female college students, and in a group of women diagnosed as bulimic. Both males and females in the college student group reported a substantial frequency of eating an excessive amount of food in a relatively short period of time. A family history of substance abuse was significantly related to reported binge behavior for college females, but not for college males. Marked similarities were found among the college and clinical group women in the emotional antecedents and consequents of the eating binge, and in the foods consumed. The males reported a significantly greater proportion of positive affect after a binge episode. A general pattern of impulse-control problems was reported by a significant number of the clinically identified bulimic group.
A first report on deformation-mechanism maps

Abstract This report introduces the idea of deformations-mechanism maps: maps which display the fields of stress and temperature in which a particular mechanism of plastic flow is dominant. Most materials have the capacity to deform by several alternative and independent mechanisms: dislocation glide, diffusional flow and dislocation creep are examples. Each appears on the map as a field. A point on a map then identifies the dominant mechanism and indicates the resulting strain-rate. Three applications of the maps are discussed. First, they permit a study of the effect of crystal structure and atomic bonding on plastic flow. Second, they help in the design of experiments to study a given flow mechanism and in locating, identifying and characterizing missing mechanisms. And, third, they are useful in a qualitative way for choosing a material for engineering applications, for predicting the mechanism by which it deforms and hence in selecting, or predicting the effects, of strengthening mechanisms.
Ginkgo biloba modulates glutathione redox cycle in vascular endothelial cells

Abstract We recently reported that Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) suppressed oxidative burst in macrophages and protected bovine pulmonary artery endothelial cells (PAEC) from oxidant injury. In this study the effects of GBE on glutathione (GSH) redox cycle and activity of antioxidant enzymes were investigated. Confluent monolayers of PAEC were incubated with GBE for 8–48 h, washed, and then lysed with Triton X-100. Biochemical assays were performed with the lysate. GBE caused both dose- and time-dependent increase in GSH level and glutathione disulfide (GSSG) reductase activity while GSH peroxidase and superoxide dismutase activity remained unaffected. Exposure of PAEC to an organic oxidant tert -butyl hydroperoxide ( t BHP) resulted in decreased GSH level, increased lipid peroxidation, and elevated leakage of intracellular lactate dehydrogenase. Preincubation or simultaneous treatment of PAEC with GBE prevented these changes induced by t BHP. Our data suggest that the antioxidant effect of GBE may be due to its modulation of the GSH redox cycle in PAEC as well as direct scavenging of the oxidant.
Application of the computational aeroacoustics method to an advanced counterrotating propfan configuration

The acoustical near field of a counterrotating propeller configuration of unducted fan (UDF) type is presently predicted by means of a numerical methodology employing the transonic flow field generated by the three-dimensional numerical flow solver designated SSTAGE. This numerical approach simulates the time-averaged, three-dimensional inviscid flow field of the UDF by means of a four-stage Runge-Kutta integration scheme which marches the equations forward in time toward an asymptotic limit. The near field pressure time history is obtained directly from the flow field solution; by converting these histories with a Fourier series representation, specific data on the acoustic signal frequency spectra can be obtained.
Functional roles of ionic and hydrophobic surface loops in smooth muscle myosin: their interactions with actin.

This investigation ascertains whether, in (smooth muscle) myosin, certain residues engage in functional interactions with their actin conjugates in an actomyosin complex. Such interactions have been postulated from putting together crystallographic models of the two proteins [Rayment, I., Rypniewski, W. R., Schmidt-Base, K., Smith, R., Tomchick, D. R., Benning, M. M., Winkelmann, D. A., Wesenberg, G., and Holden, H. M. (1993) Science 261, 50−58]. Here, in several instances, we ask whether mutation of a particular residue significantly impairs a function, and find that the answers are largely rationalized by the original postulation. Additionally, a novel element emerges from our investigation. To assess function, we test the wild type and mutant systems as they perform in the steady state of ATP degradation. In doing so, we assume, as usual, that degradation proceeds from an early stage in which the complex forms (and is described by parameter Kapp) to a later stage during which the product leaves the com...
The effect of early postoperative physical activity on tissue oxygen and wound healing.

Background.Supplemented postoperative activity was compared to standard activity for effects on wound healing, subcutaneous tissue perfusion, and oxygen (PscO2) following hip replacement (THR).Meth...
Concepts for smart nanocomposite materials

This paper explores concepts for new smart materials that have extraordinary properties based on nanotechnology. Carbon and boron nitride nanotubes in theory can be used to manufacture fibers that have piezoelectric, pyroelectric, piezoresistive, and electrochemical field properties. Smart nanocomposites designed using these fibers will sense and respond to elastic, thermal, and chemical fields in a positive human-like way to improve the performance of structures, devices, and possibly humans. Remarkable strength, morphing, cooling, energy harvesting, strain and temperature sensing, chemical sensing and filtering, and high natural frequencies and damping will be the properties of these new materials. Synthesis of these unique atomically precise nanotubes, fibers, and nanocomposites is at present challenging and expensive, however, there is the possibility that we can synthesize the strongest and lightest actuators and most efficient sensors man has ever made. A particular advantage of nanotube transducers is their very high load bearing capability. Carbon nanotube electrochemical actuators have a predicted energy density at low frequencies that is thirty times greater than typical piezoceramic materials while boron nitride nanotubes are insulators and can operate at high temperatures, but they have a predicted piezoelectric induced stress constant that is about twenty times smaller than piezoceramic materials. Carbon nanotube fibers and composites exhibit a change in electrical conductivity due to strain that can be used for sensing. Some concepts for nanocomposite material sensors are presented and initial efforts to fabricate carbon nanocomposite load sensors are discussed.
Homogeneous case of the continuous response model

In line with the latent trait model, the continuous response level is defined and considered, in contrast to the discrete response levels, which have already been explored by the author. Discussions are mainly focused on the homogeneous case and the open response situation. The operating density characteristic of the continuous item score is defined. Also the basic function, information functions and the positive-exponent family are discussed on the continuous response level, in connection with the sufficient condition that a unique maximum estimate is provided for the response pattern, which consists of the continuous item scores.
Comparative effectiveness research using the electronic medical record: an emerging area of investigation in pediatric primary care.

Previous research demonstrated that as many as one-half of all clinical decisions are reached without adequate medical evidence to inform choices.1 In contrast to other areas of investigation, comparative effectiveness research (CER) directly addresses this problem. Specifically, CER uses varied study designs to generate and synthesize evidence demonstrating the benefits and harms of alternative methods to prevent, diagnose, treat, and monitor clinical conditions or improve the delivery of care.1,2 The need for CER is especially urgent in pediatrics, a field in which clinicians and families frequently depend on the generalization of medical knowledge from adult trials despite limited evidence to support the use of these treatments.3 To close these knowledge gaps, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) allocated $1.1 billion for CER.4 CER to improve child health must address the needs of families treated by primary care clinicians in the community. After the newborn period, most children are infrequently admitted to hospitals and are only occasionally cared for by pediatric subspecialists.5 To aggregate data from multiple primary care settings and avoid bias from small samples of families or clinicians, pediatric primary care practice-based research networks have increasingly informed how pediatric clinicians understand child health issues.6 However, because of the costs of manually reviewing paper-based records and collecting other data from geographically dispersed sites, the research productivity of these networks could be dramatically increased through access to electronic medical record (EMR) data.7 This potential is enhanced because EMRs are becoming increasingly common in pediatric practices8,9 as a result of ARRA incentives, which devoted $19 billion to promote their adoption.4 Through examples from The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) Pediatric Research Consortium (PeRC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Electronic Pediatric Research in Office Settings (ePROS) networks, this review highlights the challenges and opportunities in using EMRs to foster CER and improve the delivery and outcomes of pediatric care.
APOBEC3B and APOBEC3C Are Potent Inhibitors of Simian Immunodeficiency Virus Replication

In the human genome the apolipoprotein B mRNA-editing enzyme catalytic polypeptide (APOBEC)3 gene has expanded into a tandem array of genes termed APOBEC3A-G. Two members of this family, APOBEC3G and APOBEC3F, have been found to have potent activity against virion infectivity factor deficient (Δvif) human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1). These enzymes become encapsidated in Δvif HIV-1 virions and in the next round of infection deaminate the newly synthesized reverse transcripts. The lentiviral Vif protein prevents the deamination by inducing the degradation of APOBEC3G and APOBEC3F. We report here that two additional APOBEC3 family members, APOBEC3B and APOBEC3C, have potent antiviral activity against simian immuno-deficiency virus (SIV), but not HIV-1. Both enzymes were encapsidated in HIV-1 and SIV virions and were active against Δvif SIVmac and SIVagm. SIV Vif neutralized the antiviral activity of APOBEC3C, but not that of APOBEC3B. APOBEC3B induced abundant G → A mutations in both wild-type and Δvif SIV reverse transcripts. APOBEC3C induced substantially fewer mutations. APOBEC3F was found to be active against SIV and sensitive to SIVmac Vif. These findings raise the possibility that the different APOBEC3 family members function to neutralize specific lentiviruses.
Copper Chemistry in Freshwater Ecosystems: An Overview

Abstract Increased loading of anthropogenerated copper into the Great Lakes is of some concern. This paper provides an overview of the environmental chemistry of copper in freshwater systems, with emphasis on critical processes such oxidation/reduction, adsorption/desorption, and precipitation/dissolution that change its speciation and thus its bioavailability. The over-arching effects of photochemistry, organic matter, and particulate material on chemical transformations are highlighted. The speciation of copper in lake water with a composition that approaches that of Lake Michigan is calculated using a chemical equilibrium model.
An introductory textbook on cyber-physical systems

We introduce a textbook that strives to identify and introduce the durable intellectual ideas of embedded systems as a technology and as a subject of study. The emphasis is on modeling, design, and analysis of cyber-physical systems, which integrate computing, networking, and physical processes. The book is intended for students at the advanced undergraduate level or the introductory graduate level, and for practicing engineers and computer scientists who wish to understand the engineering principles of embedded systems. It is also an experiment in publishing. The book is available free in electronic form, in the form of PDF file designed specifically for on-line reading. Specifically, the layout is optimized for medium-sized screens, particularly the iPad and forthcoming tablets. Extensive use of hyperlinks and color enhance the online reading experience. A print version will be available through a print-on-demand service, enabling rapid evolution and immediate correction of errors. See http://LeeSeshia.org.
The best expert versus the smartest algorithm

In this paper, we consider the problem of online prediction using expert advice. Under different assumptions, we give tight lower bounds on the gap between the best expert and any online algorithm that solves the problem.
Understanding Second Language Teacher Practice Using Microanalysis and Self-Reflection: A Collaborative Case Study.

Research on second/foreign language teacher impressions, reflections, and beliefs continues to illuminate various facets of language teacher knowledge and practice, but it has only recently begun to question the relationship between these teacher characteristics and actual classroom discourse. This collaborative case study undertaken by a discourse analyst and an English as a second language teacher concurrently analyzed data from one segment of transcribed grammar classroom interaction and the teacher's focused self-reflections in order to examine the insights both participants independently brought to bear on the understanding of the nonverbal behavior in the segment under scrutiny. Through these analyses and the collaborative dialogue that ensued, both the discourse analyst and the teacher came to reevaluate their research methodologies and to conclude that the microanalysis of classroom discourse and the teacher self-reflections complemented each other by providing insights that neither method generated in isolation.
Water on Rutile TiO2(110) and Au/TiO2(110) : Effects on Au Mobility and the Isotope Exchange Reaction

The behavior of adsorbed water on rutile TiO2 (110) and 0.05 ML-equivalent Au/TiO2 (110) have been probed over the temperature range from 110 to 800 K using a combination of temperature-programmed desorption (TPD), ion scattering spectroscopy (ISS), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Water, either predosed in order to hydroxylate vacancy sites on the surface prior to Au deposition, or dosed after Au deposition onto clean vacuum-annealed TiO2, results in more facile agglomeration of the initially dispersed Au atoms compared to Au deposited on vacuum-annealed TiO2. TPD indicates that the presence of Au binding at oxygen vacancy sites blocks dissociative chemisorption of water.
CT and MRI of Early Intrauterine Pregnancy

OBJECTIVE. The objective of this article is to describe the CT and MRI findings of early intrauterine pregnancy.CONCLUSION. Early pregnancy should be considered when CT or MRI shows a fluid-filled cystlike structure in the uterus of a woman of reproductive age especially if there is a coexistent ovarian corpus luteum cyst.
Co-Expression of P2X1 and P2X5 Receptor Subunits Reveals a Novel ATP-Gated Ion Channel

P2X receptors are a family of ion channels gated by extracellular ATP. Each member of the family can form functional homomeric channels, but only P2X2 and P2X3 have been shown to combine to form a unique heteromeric channel. Data from in situ hybridization studies suggest that P2X1 and P2X5 may also co-assemble. In this study, we tested this hypothesis by expressing recombinant P2X1 and P2X5 receptor subunits either individually or together in human embryonic kidney 293 cells. In cells expressing the homomeric P2X1 receptor, 30 μm α,β-methylene ATP (α,β-me-ATP) evoked robust currents that completely desensitized in less than 1 sec, whereas α,β-me-ATP failed to evoke current in cells expressing the homomeric P2X5 receptor. By contrast, α,β-me-ATP evoked biphasic currents with a pronounced nondesensitizing plateau phase in cells that co-expressed both subunits. Further, the EC50 for α,β-me-ATP was greater in cells expressing both P2X1 and P2X5 than in cells expressing P2X1 alone (5 and 1.6 μm, respectively). Heteromeric assembly was confirmed using a co-immunoprecipitation assay of epitope-tagged P2X1 and P2X5 subunits. In summary, this study provides biochemical and functional evidence of a novel channel formed by P2X subunit heteropolymerization. This finding suggests that heteromeric subunit assembly constitutes an important mechanism for generating functional diversity of ATP-mediated responses.
Impact of natural and anthropogenic aerosols on stratocumulus and precipitation in the Southeast Pacific: a regional modelling study using WRF-Chem

Abstract. Cloud-system resolving simulations with the chemistry version of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF-Chem) model are used to quantify the relative impacts of regional anthropogenic and oceanic emissions on changes in aerosol properties, cloud macro- and microphysics, and cloud radiative forcing over the Southeast Pacific (SEP) during the VAMOS Ocean-Cloud-Atmosphere-Land Study Regional Experiment (VOCALS-REx) (15 October–16 November 2008). Two distinct regions are identified. The near-coast polluted region is characterized by low surface precipitation rates, the strong suppression of non-sea-salt particle activation due to sea-salt particles, a predominant albedo effect in aerosol indirect effects, and limited impact of aerosols associated with anthropogenic emissions on clouds. Opposite sensitivities to natural marine and anthropogenic aerosol perturbations are seen in cloud properties (e.g., cloud optical depth and cloud-top and cloud-base heights), precipitation, and the top-of-atmosphere and surface shortwave fluxes over this region. The relatively clean remote region is characterized by large contributions of aerosols from non-regional sources (lateral boundaries) and much stronger drizzle at the surface. Under a scenario of five-fold increase in regional anthropogenic emissions, this relatively clean region shows large cloud responses, for example, a 13% increase in cloud-top height and a 9% increase in albedo in response to a moderate increase (25% of the reference case) in cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) concentration. The reduction of precipitation due to this increase in anthropogenic aerosols more than doubles the aerosol lifetime in the clean marine boundary layer. Therefore, the aerosol impacts on precipitation are amplified by the positive feedback of precipitation on aerosol, which ultimately alters the cloud micro- and macro-physical properties, leading to strong aerosol-cloud-precipitation interactions. The high sensitivity is also related to an increase in cloud-top entrainment rate (by 16% at night) due to the increased anthropogenic aerosols. The simulated aerosol-cloud-precipitation interactions due to the increased anthropogenic aerosols have a stronger diurnal cycle over the clean region compared to the near-coast region with stronger interactions at night. During the day, solar heating results in more frequent decoupling of the cloud and sub-cloud layers, thinner clouds, reduced precipitation, and reduced sensitivity to the increase in anthropogenic emissions. This study shows the importance of natural aerosols in accurately quantifying anthropogenic forcing within a regional modeling framework. The results of this study also imply that the energy balance perturbations from increased anthropogenic emissions are larger in the more susceptible clean environment than in already polluted environment and are larger than possible from the first indirect effect alone.
KNN particle filters for dynamic hybrid Bayesian networks

In state estimation of dynamic systems, sequential Monte Carlo methods, also known as particle filters, have been introduced to deal with practical problems of nonlinear, non-Gaussian situations. They allow us to treat any type of probability distribution, nonlinearity and non-stationarity although they usually suffer major drawbacks of sample degeneracy and inefficiency in high-dimensional cases. In this paper, we show how we can exploit the structure of partially dynamic hybrid Bayesian networks (PD-HBN) to reduce "sample depletion" and increase the efficiency of particle filtering, by combining the well-known KNN majority voting strategy and the concept of evolution algorithm. Essentially, the novel method re-samples part of the variables and randomly combines them with the existing samples of other variables to produce new particles. As new observations become available, the algorithm allows the particles to incorporate the latest information so that the top K fittest particles associated with a proposed objective rule will be kept for re-sampling. With simulations, we show that this new approach has a superior estimation/classification performance compared to other related algorithms.
Effects of growth phase and extracellular slime on photodynamic inactivation of gram-positive pathogenic bacteria

The emergence of antibiotic resistance among pathogenic bacteria has led to efforts to find alternative antimicrobial therapeutics to which bacteria will not be easily able to develop resistance. One of these may be the combination of nontoxic dyes (photosensitizers [PS]) and visible light, known as photodynamic therapy, and we have reported its use to treat localized infections in animal models. While it is known that gram-positive species are generally susceptible to photodynamic inactivation (PDI), the factors that govern variation in degrees of killing are unknown. We used isogenic pairs of wild-type and transposon mutants deficient in capsular polysaccharide and slime production generated from Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus to examine the effects of extracellular slime on susceptibility to PDI mediated by two cationic PS (a polylysine-chlorin(e6) conjugate, pL-c(e6), and methylene blue [MB]) and an anionic molecule, free c(e6), and subsequent exposure to 665-nm light at 0 to 40 J/cm(2). Free c(e6) gave more killing of mutant strains than wild type, despite the latter taking up more PS. Log-phase cultures were killed more than stationary-phase cultures, and this correlated with increased uptake. The cationic pL-c(e6) and MB gave similar uptakes and killing despite a 50-fold difference in incubation concentration. Differences in susceptibility between strains and between growth phases observed with free c(e6) largely disappeared with the cationic compounds despite significant differences in uptake. These data suggest that slime production and stationary phase can be obstacles against PDI for gram-positive bacteria but that these obstacles can be overcome by using cationic PS.
Flow structure and channel change in a sinuous grass-lined stream within an agricultural drainage ditch: Implications for ditch stability and aquatic habitat

Many drainage ditches in the Midwest have developed a geomorphological configuration characterized by vegetated bars, or benches, on the bottom of the ditch and a stream flowing within a channel inset into these bars or benches. Past work has focused on the sedimentology of the benches and the depositional processes involved in bench development. This study investigates the three-dimensional flow structure and short-term channel change in a small grass-lined stream flanked by benches at the bottom of an agricultural drainage ditch in east central Illinois, USA. In particular, it focuses on the influence of channel curvature and bank vegetation on flow through the inset channel at two different stages and explores how the structure of the flow is related to documented patterns of channel change. Results indicate that the mean flow is characterized by a submerged high-velocity core that mainly is confined to the centre of the channel by near-bank zones of flow stagnation/separation induced by abrupt changes in channel alignment and by strong frictional effects of grasses extending into the flow along the channel margins. Where the high-velocity core is close to the channel margins, minor erosional adjustments of the inset channel can occur in the form of bank erosion. Patterns of turbulence kinetic energy reflect the development of shear layers near the channel margins and surrounding the submerged high-velocity core. Locations with strong turbulence also correspond to locations of minor bank erosion. The results indicate that the inset channel is a relatively stable feature, especially where the alignment of this channel is straight, but that erosion-control treatments may be necessary locally where the inset channel impinges on the ditch bank. Although the development of benches, a geomorphic response to ditch maintenance, is commonly viewed as a threat to drainage efficacy, preserving or constructing benches and associated inset channels in drainage ditches can enhance aquatic habitat and water quality. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Third sound interaction with pinned vortices in 4He superfluid films

Abstract Superfluid circulation states are modified by high-amplitude third sound resonances and remain as persistent currents after the sound is removed. They are the result of pinned vortices at areal densities at on the order of tens of thousands per square centimeter interacting with the wave. A model for the flow-assisted, thermal activation of vortices has successfully reproduced both the temperature and amplitude dependence of the swirling.
An evaluation of the impact of the Internet in Africa

The article describes the diffusion of the Internet in Africa and its impact on its people, organisations and socio‐economic activities. It shows which countries are leading the way and why, and more importantly the problems confronted by people in different countries. A conceptual framework based on the work of Press, Daly and Menou is used to analyse the diffusion of Internet technologies in Africa. A case study, involving the application of web technologies in the agricultural sector, is used as an example of the key role the Internet can play in respect to key socio‐economic activities in Africa. The article concludes by looking at the future developments of the technology.
Geriatric Mental Health: An Overview

Abstract The well-being of older adults is a major social and health concern in the United States. Of particular import is the mental health of the expanding older adult population. Older adults often receive inadequate or inappropriate mental health services. Provision of appropriate, efficacious care is a challenge because of the complexity of determining the differential diagnosis of health problems in elders. Mental health professionals require knowledge not only of the unique presentation of psychiatric disorders in older adults but also of normal aging, diseases and disabilities of aging, and the cultural diversity found between and among subgroups. For the purposes of this article, emphasis will be placed on geriatric mental health, including issues and barriers that have affected the diagnosis and treatment of mental health problems and psychiatric disorders in older adults. Areas of concern identified in the recent Surgeon General's reports on older adult suicide and mental health will be presented. A case example will be used to illustrate key issues in geriatric mental health care. (J Am Psychiatr Nurses Assoc [2001]. 7, S2-S7.)
TCP-Peach+: enhancement of TCP-Peach for satellite IP networks

In this letter an improvement to TCP-Peach congestion control scheme, called TCP-Peach+, is proposed to further improve the goodput performance for satellite IP networks. In TCP-Peach+, two new algorithms, jump start and quick recovery, are proposed for congestion control in satellite networks. These algorithms are based on low priority segments, called NIL segments, which are used to probe the availability of network resources as well as error recovery. Simulation experiments show that TCP-Peach+ outperforms TCP-Peach in terms of goodput and achieves fair share of network resources as well.
An efficient scaling procedure for Domino CMOS logic

The area required by Domino CMOS gates to support a specific response-time performance and capacitive load can be substantially reduced by scaling the NFET chain. A novel scaling procedure is described which requires far less CPU time than previous algorithms. The proposed scaling procedure has resulted in scaled Domino gates with channel area reductions similar to those given by the Monte Carlo/SPICE simulation. This procedure is applicable to other forms of dynamic logic. >
Comparison of verification methodologies for datapath testing

Verification of individual components of a system on a chip (SOC) has become ever more complex, with the added requirement that individual verification environments need to work well with system level environments to reduce verification time. Two of the often used approaches towards unit verification are memory image based data checking and port-to-port data checking. We compare and evaluate these approaches with respect to the rest of the environment, the logic under test and other relevant issues.
Pharmacoproteomics of obesity: definitions, role and a case study of dynamics of human plasma proteome.

In this article, several definitions of pharmaco­ proteomics and why pharmacoproteomics are important for obesity studies are discussed. This illustrates with recent results on the dynamics of plasma proteome during leptin replacement therapy in genetically based leptin deficiency. Pharmacoproteomics belongs to the third generation of the ‘omics sciences. The first gen­ eration is represented solely by genomics, while the second includes proteomics and 21 other ‘omes’, as reflected in the OMES Table [101]. The term pharmacoproteomics is relatively new: it is still absent in the Oxford English Dictionary, which recognizes pharmacogenomics as “a branch of genomics dealing with the identifica­ tion of genes involved in individual responses to drugs”. A Scopus search for “pharmacopro­ teomics” returned 59 papers (the earliest pub­ lished in 1999 [1]) and a PubMed search resulted in 43 papers. Interestingly, the Future Medicine Group recognized the importance of pharmaco­ proteomics early, which was mentioned in at least 18 publications in the group’s journals and in five papers published in Pharmacogenomics, including [2,3]. As is usually the case with new terms, the defi­ nition of pharmacoproteomics is not yet carved in stone. The president of the Human Proteome Organization wrote: “Pharmacoproteomics, a term that is a synthesis of ‘pharmacology’ and ‘proteomics’, refers to the comprehensive pro­ teomics ana lysis that is relevant to the novel drug target discovery, drug metabolism, as well as drug efficacy and toxicity” [4]. Valdes et al. emphasized the role of pharmacoproteomics by noting that “variation in drug response is likely due to functional d ifferences in critical pro­ teins (absence, presence or modification of pro­ teins) that influence the efficacy of the net drug response” and that “proteome related studies
Rapid doubling of Alzheimer’s amyloid-β40 and 42 levels in brains of mice exposed to a nickel nanoparticle model of air pollution

Background: Over 20 genetic risk factors have been confirmed to associate with elevated risk for Alzheimer’s disease (AD), but the identification of environmental and/or acquired risk factors has been more elusive. At present, recognized acquired risks for AD include traumatic brain injury, hypercholesterolemia, obesity, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes. Methods: Based on reports associating various inhalants with AD pathology, we investigated the possibility that air pollution might contribute to AD risk by exposing wild-type mice to a standard air pollution modeling system employing nickel nanoparticle-enriched atmosphere for 3 hr. Results: Mice exposed to air pollution showed 72-129% increases in brain levels of both amyloid-β peptides Aβ40 and Aβ42, as well as Aβ42/40 (p <0.01). Conclusions: These effects on elevation of brain Aβ exceed those associated with trisomy 21, a known risk for early onset AD pathology, raising the possibility that clinical importance might be attached. Further work is required to establish the molecular and physiological basis for these phenomena. The rapid, dramatic effect, if verified, would suggest that inhalant exposures should be evaluated for their possible roles in contributing to the environmental risk for common forms of AD.
Timing Circuit Design in High Performance DRAM

The need for high performance dynamic random access memory (DRAM) becomes a pressing concern with processor speeds racing into the multi-gigahertz range. For a high performance computing system, such as high-end graphics cards or game consoles, memory bandwidth is one of the key limitations. One way to address this ever increasing bandwidth requirement is by increasing the data transfer rate. As the I/O speed jumps up, precise timing control becomes critical and challenge with variations and limitations in nano-scaled DRAM processes. In this chapter, we will explore two most important timing circuits used in high performance DRAM: clock distribution network (CDN) and clock synchronization circuits (CSC).
Component interconnect and data access interface for embedded vision applications

IP-based design is used to tackle complexity and reduce time-to-market in systems-on-chip with high-performance requirements. Component integration, the main part in this process, is a complicated and time-consuming task, largely due to interfacing issues. Standard interfaces can help to reduce the integration efforts. However, existing implementations use more resources than necessary and lack of a formalism to capture and manipulate resource requirements and design constraints. In this paper, we propose a novel interface, the Component Interconnect and Data Access (CIDA), and its implementation, based on the interface automata formalism. CIDA can be used to capture system-on-chip architecture, with primarily focus on video processing applications, which are mostly based on data streaming paradigm, with occasional direct memory accesses. We introduce the notion of component-interface clustering for resource reduction and provide a method to automatize this process. With real-life video processing applications implemented in FPGA, we show that our approach can reduce the resource usage (#slices) by an average of 20 % and reduce power consumption by 5 % compared to implementation based on vendor interfaces.
Differences in time course of ACh and GABA modulation of excitatory synaptic potentials in slices of rat hippocampus.

Activation of muscarinic receptors and GABABreceptors causes presynaptic inhibition of glutamatergic synaptic potentials at excitatory feedback connections in cortical structures. These effects may...
Tradeoffs in Real-Time Robotic Task Design with Neuroevolution Learning for Imprecise Computation

We present a study on the tradeoffs between three design parameters for robotic task systems that function in partially unknown and unstructured environments, and under timing constraints. The design space of these robotic tasks must incorporate at least three dimensions: (1) the amount of training effort to teach the robot to perform the task, (2) the time available to complete the task from the point when the command is given to perform the task, and (3) the quality of the result from performing the task. This paper presents a tradeoff study in this design space for a common robotic task, specifically, grasping of unknown objects in unstructured environments. The imprecise computation model is used to provide a framework for this study. The results were validated with a real robot and contribute to the development of a systematic approach for designing robotic task systems that must function in environments like flexible manufacturing systems of the future.
Encouraging Savings for Low- and Moderate-Income Individuals: Preliminary Implementation Findings from the SaveUSA Evaluation

SaveUSA, a pilot program in New York City, Newark, San Antonio, and Tulsa, offers a matched savings account to low-income tax filers, building on the opportunity presented by tax-time refunds, especially the Earned Income Tax Credit. This 12-page brief offers early implementation findings.
Medical Safety: From Good Stories to Good Policy

Injuries caused by medical care are far too common, and policy makers are finally noticing. As the three first-person accounts in this symposium suggest, however, creating a useful policy response is difficult. Two influential camps are at loggerheads. On one side, the litigators and regulators who have always run our traditional injury system blame injuries on incompetence or carelessness, and urge yet more and stronger external rules, investigations, litigation, and sanctions. On the other, a growing provider-generated patient safety movement blames errors not on medical caregivers but rather on their complex, high-stress, and poorly organized work environment. This camp wants to create a new culture of safety inside medical institutions, seeking to fix problems, not blame. They want practitioners to be able to report errors without fear of retribution, investigate contributing factors, then craft specific interventions. Each approach has some merit, but neither is sufficient on its own, and the two are inconsistent when applied together. One demands open disclosure and punitive response, which drives information underground. The other wants to coax out information but lacks reliable motivation to overcome the traditional medical impulse to secrecy. A third way is needed, emphasizing the interests of patients, not those of lawyers or doctors. External legal interventions should be toned down, but patients and payers should be far more demanding of enhanced safety information and better safety management inside medical institutions. Ideally, caregivers would routinely tell patients about injuries, and reasonable compensation would follow for those that were avoidable. Then safety management would constantly be informed by experience. Patients should not need to sue, and practitioners should worry more about patient outcomes than legal outcomes.
The Role of Fibrocytes in Lung Repair and Fibrosis

Regeneration and fibrosis are integral parts of the recovery from tissue injury, and impaired regulation of these mechanisms is a hallmark of many chronic diseases. Traditionally, resident tissue fibroblasts have been thought to proliferate and mediate local fibrosis. However, more recently, data suggest that a circulating bone-marrow-derived progenitor cell, the fibrocyte, plays a critical role in the repair of injured tissue in a diverse set of disease states, including fibrotic lung disease. In this chapter, we describe the unique characteristics of fibrocytes, how they are recruited to the site of lung injury, and experimental results supporting their pivotal role in lung repair and fibrosis.
PL 92-500 Versus Pollution by Irrigation Return Flow

The need for control of pollutant discharges via irrigation return flows (IRF) is obvious and is required by PL 92-500. The NPDES permits must, by statute and regulation, require that “Best Practicable Control Technology Currently Available” (BPT) be achieved by July 1, 1977, and that “Best Available Control Technology Economically Achievable” (BAT) be implemented July 1, 1983. Conventional treatment of IRF is clearly cost-prohibitive. Pollutant discharges by IRF can be controlled through optimum water use, optimum and carefully controlled applications of pesticides and fertilizers, elimination of tailwater discharges, and water reuse. Implementation of such controls through NPDES can be achieved through a program of EPA-funded demonstration plots in each major irrigated area. Optimum practices should be employed upon each plot to ascertain quality of drainage that can be attained by operators within the district or area. BPT and BAT could then be defined for permittees within the district or area. NPDES permit limitations should be based upon the BPT or BAT determinations thus derived.
Ternäre Erdalkali-und Seltene Erdmetall-Silicide und-Germanide mit ThCr 2 Si 2 -Struktur

Es wurden 53 neue Verbindungen mit der ZusammensetzungRM 2 B 2 IV hergestellt, wobeiR ein Selten-Erdelement, Ca oder Sr bedeutet,M eines der Elemente: Cr, Fe, Co, Ni oder Cu ist undB IV entweder Si oder Ge bezeichnet. Alle Verbindungen kristallisieren im tetragonalen ThCr2Si2-(oder CeAl2Ga2-) Strukturtyp. Der letztere stellt eine geordnete ternare Variante des BaAl4-Typs dar, bei dem die zwei ungleichwertigen Al-Punktlagen mit verschiedenartigen Atomen besetzt sind.
Use of Quantum-Well Superlattices to Increase the Thermoelectric Figure of Merit: Transport and Optical Studies

The thermoelectric figure of merit(ZT) of a material is a measure the usefulness of the material in a thermoelectric device. Presently, the materials with the highestZT are Bi2Te3 alloys, withZT ≃ 1. There has been little improvement inZT for over 30 years. So far, all the materials used in thermoelectric applications have been in bulk form. Recently, however, calculations have shown that it may be possible to increaseZT of some materials through the use of quantum-well superlattices. We have made preliminary measurements on the Bi/PbTe superlattice system using transport and optical techniques to determine whether it is possible to achieve such an increase inZT.
Optically detected magnetic resonance studies of undoped a-Si:H

Photogenerated carrier dynamics in undoped a-Si:H have been studied by photoinduced absorption (PA), photoluminescence (PL) and their respective optically detected magnetic resonances: PADMR and PLDMR. The authors have detected for the first time the g= 4 resonance in PADMR, in addition to the previously measured narrow and broad resonances at g {approx} 2. They compare the PADMR and PLDMR resonances over a broad spectral range of detection energies and conclude from the similarities that they share a common underlying mechanism. The PADMR spectra of the narrow and the broad resonances at g {approx} 2, measured in the spectral range of 0.7 to 1.7 eV, suggest that a correlation exists between the two resonances and PA.
Cars, Condoms, and Facebook

Participation on Online Social Networks OSNs inherently requires information sharing and thus exposes individuals to privacy risks. Risk mitigation then has been encouraged through adoption of usable privacy controls. Apparently stronger privacy enhancing technologies PETs decrease both risk and perceptions of risk. As a result individuals feel safer and may respond by in fact accepting more risk. Such perverse results have been observed offline. Risk perception offline has been understood to be a function of characteristics of the risks involved rather than as a calculus grounded only in the probability of the risk and the magnitude of harm. In this work we use nine characteristics of risk from a classic and proven offline model of perceived risk to conduct a survey based evaluation of perceptions of privacy risks on Facebook. We find that these dimensions of risk provide a statistically significant explanation of perceived risk of information sharing on Facebook.