cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Markers of cardiovascular risk, insulin resistance, and ventricular dysfunction and remodeling in obese adolescents.

Objectives To test our hypothesis that obese adolescents have left ventricular (LV) dysfunction and remodeling that are associated with markers of cardiovascular risk and insulin resistance (IR). Study design In a cross-sectional study of 44 obese and 14 lean age-, sex-, Tanner stage-, and race-matched adolescents, IR, markers of cardiovascular risks, conventional and 2-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography measures of LV function and structure were evaluated and compared. Results The obese adolescents had significantly increased body mass index Z-score, systolic blood pressure, fasting insulin, IR, and atherogenic lipids compared with the lean adolescents. A subgroup of obese adolescents had LV remodeling characterized by significantly increased LV mass index (g/m 2.7 ) and relative wall thickness. Almost all obese adolescents had LV dysfunction with peak LV global longitudinal strain (GLS, %), systolic GLS rate (GLSR, %/s), and early diastolic GLSR significantly lower than in lean adolescents and in the normal pediatric population. Body mass index Z-score predicted LV remodeling (LV mass index [ R 2 = 0.34] and relative wall thickness [ R 2 0.10]), and peak LV GLS (R 2 0.15), and along with systolic blood pressure, predicted systolic GLSR (R 2 0.16); ( P ≤ .01 for all). Fasting insulin predicted early diastolic GLSR (R 2 0.17, P ≤ .01). Conclusions Obese adolescents have subclinical ventricular dysfunction associated with the severity of obesity, increased systolic blood pressure, and IR. Ventricular remodeling is present in a subgroup of obese adolescents in association with the severity of obesity. These findings suggest that obesity may have an early impact on the cardiovascular health of obese adolescents.
Effect of corneal hydration on corneal refractive index

We report the effect of changes in corneal hydration on corneal refractive index using optical coherence tomography. The results demonstrate that the measurement of refractive index is a quantitative indicator of corneal hydration.
Disgust sensitivity and obsessive-compulsive symptoms in a non-clinical sample

Disgust sensitivity has been posited to play a role in the etiology and/or maintenance of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD); however, results of studies in this area have been mixed. We examined the relationship between specific domains of disgust sensitivity and specific OCD symptom patterns. One thousand and five undergraduate volunteers completed an internet battery of questionnaires including measures of OCD symptoms, depression, anxiety, and disgust sensitivity. Results indicated that even when controlling for depression and anxiety, several OCD symptom groups (checking, ordering, and washing) were associated with disgust sensitivity. Analysis of residuals, in which we controlled for every other OCD and disgust sensitivity domain for each paired comparison, indicated that the clearest relationship was between washing symptoms of OCD and disgust sensitivity toward hygiene-related stimuli. Examination of these items, however, raises questions about whether commonly accepted measures of disgust sensitivity might confound disgust with other forms of aversion. We discuss possible strategies for clarifying the degree to which fear and disgust are involved in OCD symptoms.
Big five personality traits and smoking persistence over 12 years

s / Drug and Alcohol Dependence 140 (2014) e2–e85 e71 viewed and tested for HIV, syphilis, Chlamydia and gonorrhea. We characterized alcohol use thru Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test (AUDIT). We describe AUDIT scores, patterns and frequency of drinking, and frequency of binge drinking. We compared sociodemographic variables andHIV risk variables by thosewho partake of hazardous alcohol use (AUDIT score ≥8) against those who do not. A multivariate logistic regression model is presented to determine independent associations with hazardous alcohol use. Results: Mean AUDIT score was 7.2, median AUDIT was 4.0. Forty percent were determined to be partaking in hazardous alcohol use, 31% drink alcohol at least 2–3 times a week, and a third binge at least once a week. Variables independently associated with hazardous alcohol use were living in Tijuana (adjusted odd ratio [AOR] =5.35, p<0.001), ever being in jail (AOR=1.88, p=0.03), reporting any sexually transmitted infection (AOR=2.69, p<0.01), and having sex while drunk (AOR=4.37, p<0.001). It was inversely associated with age (AOR=0.96, p=0.02) ever being deported (AOR=5.35, p<0.001) and sharing intravenous drugs (AOR=0.45), p=0.04). Conclusions: High rates of hazardous alcohol use among male clients of FSW in Tijuana associatedwith high-risk sexual behavior. A tailored intervention is needed. Financial support: DG and EP are funded thru a NIDA T32Grant in Substance Use, HIV and Related Infections (DA 023356). http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2014.02.212 Big five personality traits and smoking persistence over 12 years Renee Goodwin1,2, A. Bono1 1 Psychology, Queens College, City University of New York, Flushing, NY, United States 2 Epidemiology, Columbia University, New York, NY,
Population structure of depreciated communities: I. the 1977 genetic demograhies of Colonsay and Jura islands, the Scottish Inner Hebrides.

Abstract This report compares the 1977 genetic demographies of Colonsay and Jura, adjacent yet isolated islands of the Scottish Inner Hebrides. Completed family analyses demonstrated that the residents of Colonsay have higher fertility, shorter generation length, and longer female reproduction span than those of Jura. Based on oral genealogies of five to six generations, the natives of Jura had a higher inbreeding coefficient (f= 0.0044) than did those of Colonsay (f= 0.0023). Each set of natives mainly derives from small groups of “founding” ancestors. Founder effects in the populations are transitory phenomena dependent upon population decline and the periodic emigration of native families. With their small sizes, the maximum sampling errors due to random genetic drift are ±0.063 for Colonsay and ±0.059 for Jura per generation. An unusual finding was that the effective sizes of Colonsay and Jura exceed their respective breeding sizes. Today Colonsay and Jura are former geographical isolates in dissoluti...
The effects of delay of reward on negative contrast effects associated with reductions in reward magnitude

The results of three runway experiments in which rats received a reduction in the magnitude of delayed vs. immediate reward are reported. The results indicated that the negative contrast effect associated with a reduction in reward amount is more pronounced when all rewards are delayed. In the past three decades. considerable theoreticai attention has focused on the behavioral effects of changes in magnitude of reward in instrumental conditioning. Until quite recently. it appeared that \\hile decreases in reward magnitude produced contrast effects. comparable increases in reward did not (d. Black. 1968: Dunham. 1968). Thus. rats shifted from large to small reward typically show negative contrast effects (NCEs). depressed perfor­ mancc to small re\\"ard as compared with that of subjects trained and maintained on small reward. \\hile subjects shifted from small to large reward do not display posItI\"e contrast effects (PCEs). facilitation of performance to large reward as compared \\ith that of subjects maintained on large re\\arci. Recent studies. howe\"er. ha\'e clearly shown that PCEs attend increases in reward amount if all re\\ards are delayed follo\\'ing the instrumental response (Mellgren. 1972). While it is clear that reward delay interacts with increases in reward magnitude such that PCEs are larger and more reliable under delayed as compared \\ith immediate reward conditions. the theoretical basis of this interactive effect remains largely unexplored. Most frequently. the interactive effect has been attributed to the operation of a physiological or psychological "ceiling effect" on the performance of unshifted large reward (contro\) subjects (cf. BO\\er. 1961: Mellgren. 1972; Shanab & Cm·allaro. 1975). According to the ceiling hypothesis, PCEs are not observed under conditions of immediate reward because control subjects have achieved optimal response le\'els: lowering the performance level of control su bjects. through delay of reinforcement. provides a context in which the facilitative effects of increases in re\\ard magnitude may be seen. It should be clear that such a hypothesis does not attempt to
Product Performance Validation Life Cycle Management

This paper will discuss critical issues and needs in the product performance validation domain. There is a primary need to manage a vast variety of CAE and Test data files that are used and generated throughout the product performance life cycle. The paper will discuss the different elements of managing such data including basic data structures, process and work flow requirements, product validation plans, and security and access privilege considerations. The goal of executing CAE Analysis or performing physical tests is to gather all product performance information. Evaluating all performance measurements specified for the product makes it possible to ensure that the product will behave as specified throughout its service life. The key here is that decision makers need access to all possible performance metrics for a product, an assembly or a component. There is a primary need to manage a vast variety of CAE and Test data files that are used and generated through the product performance life cycle. The paper addresses the different elements of managing such data including basic data structures, process and work flow requirements, product validation plans, security access privilege considerations and data standardization. This paper will also outline how the product validation management system architecture can support all the needs of this domain. The principal elements of the system include the supporting data structures that are mapped to a database management system and access methods using a service-oriented architecture (SOA).Copyright © 2009 by ASME
The Use of the STAGS Finite Element Code in Stitched Structures Development

In the last 30 years NASA has worked in collaboration with industry to develop enabling technologies needed to make aircraft more fuel-efficient and more affordable. The focus on the airframe has been to reduce weight, improve damage tolerance and better understand structural behavior under realistic flight and ground loading conditions. Stitched structure is a technology that can address the weight savings, cost reduction, and damage tolerance goals, but only if it is supported by accurate analytical techniques. Development of stitched technology began in the 1990's as a partnership between NASA and Boeing (McDonnell Douglas at the time) under the Advanced Composites Technology Program and has continued under various titles and programs and into the Environmentally Responsible Aviation Project today. These programs contained development efforts involving manufacturing development, design, detailed analysis, and testing. Each phase of development, from coupons to large aircraft components was supported by detailed analysis to prove that the behavior of these structures was well-understood and predictable. The Structural Analysis of General Shells (STAGS) computer code was a critical tool used in the development of many stitched structures. As a key developer of STAGS, Charles Rankin's contribution to the programs was quite significant. Key features of STAGS used in these analyses and discussed in this paper include its accurate nonlinear and post-buckling capabilities, its ability to predict damage growth, and the use of Lagrange constraints and follower forces.
Titans ionosphere : a review

Abstract This paper presents a concise review of our present understanding of the ionosphere of Titan and its interaction with the surrounding magnetosphere⧹ magnetosheath of Saturn, based on observational constraints and theoretical model calculations. A variety of different models, as well as the Voyager 1 radio occultation re-analysis, indicate a peak electron density of about 2.5–3.0×103 cm−3, at an altitude just below 1200 km, for a solar zenith angle of near 90°. Calculations predict that the ions near the electron density peak consist mainly of HCNH+ and other more complex hydrocarbon ions. The lack of observational constraints on the electron and ion temperatures leads to a wide range of possible values from the models, ranging from less than 1000 to nearly 10,000°K. The Voyager 1 plasma measurements in Titans wake, combined with model calculations, have been used to estimate that the outward fluxes from the tail are on the order of 2–7×106 cm−2 s−1, corresponding to a total ion loss rate on the order of 1025 s−1.
Subribosomal particulate forms of elongation factors and aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases in human cells.

Abstract Several enzymes required for translation in eucaryotic cells have been found in a subribosomal particulate form especially during maximal protein synthesis of exponentially growing HeLa cells. In sucrose gradients containing post-ribosomal cell extracts, elongation factors 1 and 2 as well as aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases were found in multiple forms with sedimentation values from 5–28 S. The heavier forms of the enzymes associated upon Sepharose chromatography to high molecular weight complexes of greater than 1 × 10 6 daltons.
Tipping the scales: Conciliatory behavior and the morality of self-forgiveness

Two studies examined whether conciliatory behavior aids self-forgiveness and whether it does so in part by making it seem more morally appropriate. Participants in Study 1 (n = 269) completed an offense-recall procedure; participants in Study 2 (n = 208) imagined a social transgression under conciliatory behavior (yes, no) and receipt of forgiveness (no, ambiguous, yes) conditions. Conciliatory behavior predicted (Study 1) and caused (Study 2) elevated self-forgiveness and increased perceptions of the moral appropriateness of self-forgiveness. Perceived morality consistently mediated the effect of conciliatory behavior on self-forgiveness. Received forgiveness and guilt were considered as additional mechanisms, but received mixed support. Results suggest that conciliatory behavior may influence self-forgiveness in part by satisfying moral prerequisites for self-forgiveness.
User Expectations in the Time of Google: Usability Testing of Federated Searching

SUMMARY As libraries expand their services into the world of federated searching, librarians need to work with users to discover what their expectations are and how the library can customize the software to meet users' expectations. This article describes the user testing performed at Texas AM information included in and the layout of the search results; availability of advanced search options; and lack of ability to limit by format, scholarly nature of journal, date and full-text avail...
Purkinje cell maturation in the frog cerebellum during thyroxine-induced metamorphosis

Abstract Purkinje cell maturation during thyroxine-induced metamorphosis in premetamorphic bullfrog tadpoles was studied using electron microscopy and Golgi (silver-impregnated) preparations. Cerebella from tadpoles were examined following 1, 2, or 3 weeks of thyroxine treatment. Particular attention was paid to possible differences between the two populations of Purkinje cells previously described, i.e. (i) the smaller population located in the dorsal part of the cerebellum, where the Purkinje cells show dendritic arborization long before the appearance of the external granular layer, and (ii) the larger population located in the middle and ventral regions of the cerebellum, where the Purkinje cells begin to undergo maturation during metamorphosis when the external granular layer is established. Following thyroxine treatment, both populations of Purkinje cells showed rapid maturational change. In the mature (dorsal) group, dendritic growth resumed in the presence of an external granular layer increasing the complexity of their dendritic arbors. Moreover, climbing fiber synapses translocated from contacts on the soma to the thorns of growing dendrites, and somatic processes often disappeared. The immature (ventral) group showed dramatic differentiation of the perikaryon including polarization of cytoplasm with subsequent dendritic outgrowth and formation of somatic processes in the presence of climbing fibers. Stellate cell contacts appeared on the smooth portion of the soma of many Purkinje cells. Dendritic growth during thyroxine-induced metamorphosis was characterized by growth (elongation) with minimal branching, which is initially observed during spontaneous metamorphosis. Typically, these growing dendrites ended in growth cones, some with one or several filopodia. Developing Purkinje cell dendritic spines formed synapses with parallel fibers. The present study has provided an example of the dramatic nature of thyroxine's action in inducing the complex series of detailed maturational changes in the cerebellum 1–2yr ahead of schedule. In addition, the results show that thyroxine-induced Purkinje cell maturation is more rapid and synchronous than that seen during spontaneous metamorphosis. It is concluded that Purkinje cell maturation during metamorphosis is largely dependent on thyroid hormone.
Seizures as a presenting symptom of acute arterial ischemic stroke in childhood.

Objectives To define the incidence of seizures as a presenting symptom of acute arterial ischemic stroke (AIS) in children and to determine whether younger age, infarct location, or AIS etiology were risk factors for seizure at AIS presentation. Study design Children aged 2 months to 18 years presenting with AIS between January 2005 and December 2008 were identified from a single center prospective pediatric stroke registry. Clinical data were abstracted, and a neuroradiologist reviewed imaging studies. Results Among the 60 children who met our inclusion criteria, 13 experienced seizure at stroke presentation (22%). Median age was significantly younger in children who presented with seizures than in those who did not (1.1 years vs 10 years; P = .0009). Seizures were accompanied by hemiparesis in all patients. Three of 4 children with clinically overt seizures at presentation also had nonconvulsive seizures on continuous electroencephalography monitoring. Conclusions Twenty-two percent of children with acute AIS present with seizures. Seizures were always accompanied by focal neurologic deficits. Younger age was a risk factor for seizures at presentation. Seizure at presentation was not associated with infarct location or etiology. Nonconvulsive seizures may occur during the acute period.
Incidence of testicular germ cell cancers in U.S. children: SEER program experience 1973 to 2000.

Abstract Objectives The incidence of testicular cancer in white adults in the United States increased during most of the last half of the 20th century, but information on trends in the occurrence of prepubertal testicular cancer is lacking. We analyzed a population-based cohort to determine whether the incidence trends of prepubertal testicular germ cell tumors have risen similarly to those seen in adult testicular tumors. Methods We identified cases of histologically confirmed germ cell testicular cancer in boys aged 0 to 14 years, of all races, from 1973 to 2000, through the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program of the National Cancer Institute. The variables analyzed included age, race, tumor histologic type, and year of diagnosis. Results A total of 131 cases of testicular germ cell cancer were diagnosed among boys of all races, with an overall incidence of 1.6 cases per 1 million person-years. Yolk sac tumor was the most common, followed by teratoma. Choriocarcinoma and seminoma were equally rare. Tumors were most common among whites during early infancy. No secular trends in incidence rates were identified. Conclusions Prepubertal testicular cancer is rare. All tumors were more common in whites. In contrast to adult testicular cancer, no clear trend over time was found for prepubertal tumors. Whatever the reasons for the increased incidence of testicular cancer over time in men, they do not seem to bear on the risk of testicular cancer in boys.
Further delineation of the opitz G/BBB syndrome: Report of an infant with complex congenital heart disease and bladder exstrophy, and review of the literature

The combination of complex congenital heart disease (double outlet right ventricle with pulmonary atresia, malalignment ventriculoseptal defect, right-sided aortic arch with left ductus arteriosus) and bladder exstrophy occurred in an infant with Opitz syndrome. Neither of these defects has previously been reported in association with Opitz syndrome. These malformations, which are midline defects, further characterize this syndrome as an impairment in midline development. The spectrum of congenital heart disease and genitourinary anomalies seen in Opitz syndrome is reviewed.
Redundant arithmetic, algorithms and implementations

Performance in many very-large-scale-integrated (VLSI) systems such as digital signal processing (DSP) chips, is predominantly determined by the speed of arithmetic modules like adders and multipliers. Even though redundant arithmetic algorithms produce significant improvements in performance through the elimination of carry propagation, efficient circuit implementations of these algorithms have been traditionally difficult to obtain. This work presents a survey of circuit implementations of redundant arithmetic algorithms. The described implementations are divided into three main groups: (1) conventional binary logic circuits, which encode the multivalued digits of redundant arithmetic into two or more binary digital signals; (2) current-mode multiple-valued logic circuits, which directly represent multivalued redundant digits using non-binary digital current signals; and (3) heterostructure and quantum electronic circuits, intended for very compact designs capable of operating at extremely high speeds. For each of the circuits, the operating principle is described and the main advantages and disadvantages of the approach are discussed and compared.
Rats lighten up with MCH antagonist

A new anti-obesity drug that targets brain pathways controlling energy balance in rats also works against depression and anxiety (pages 825–830).
IGF-I Stimulates Cooperative Interaction between the IGF-I Receptor and CSK Homologous Kinase that Regulates SHPS-1 Phosphorylation in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells

IGF-I plays an important role in smooth muscle cell proliferation and migration. In vascular smooth muscle cells cultured in 25 mm glucose, IGF-I stimulated a significant increase in Src homology 2 domain containing protein tyrosine phosphatase substrate-1 (SHPS-1) phosphorylation compared with 5 mm glucose and this increase was required for smooth muscle cell proliferation. A proteome-wide screen revealed that carboxyl-terminal SRC kinase homologous kinase (CTK) bound directly to phosphotyrosines in the SHPS-1 cytoplasmic domain. Because the kinase(s) that phosphorylates these tyrosines in response to IGF-I is unknown, we determined the roles of IGF-I receptor (IGF-IR) and CTK in mediating SHPS-1 phosphorylation. After IGF-I stimulation, CTK was recruited to IGF-IR and subsequently to phospho-SHPS-1. Expression of an IGF-IR mutant that eliminated CTK binding reduced CTK transfer to SHPS-1, SHPS-1 phosphorylation, and cell proliferation. IGF-IR phosphorylated SHPS-1, which provided a binding site for CTK. CTK recruitment to SHPS-1 resulted in a further enhancement of SHPS-1 phosphorylation. CTK knockdown also impaired IGF-I-stimulated SHPS-1 phosphorylation and downstream signaling. Analysis of specific tyrosines showed that mutation of tyrosines 428/452 in SHPS-1 to phenylalanine reduced SHPS-1 phosphorylation but allowed CTK binding. In contrast, the mutation of tyrosines 469/495 inhibited IGF-IR-mediated the phosphorylation of SHPS-1 and CTK binding, suggesting that IGF-IR phosphorylated Y469/495, allowing CTK binding, and that CTK subsequently phosphorylated Y428/452. Based on the above findings, we conclude that after IGF-I stimulation, CTK is recruited to IGF-IR and its recruitment facilitates CTK's subsequent association with phospho-SHPS-1. This results in the enhanced CTK transfer to SHPS-1, and the two kinases then fully phosphorylate SHPS-1, which is necessary for IGF-I stimulated cellular proliferation.
Designing ballot interfaces for voters with vision disabilities

Current accessible audio voting requires additional button controls to select candidates and scroll through the ballot, which result in significantly longer completion time for casting a ballot compared to sighted voters. Instead of adding accessibility to the finished product, this study has designed two ballot interfaces using a universal design approach. In this paper, I present the design of a ballot interface using universal design approach, formative user study, refined ballot features, and on-going future work.
Historic Trends in Lake Michigan Silica Concentrations

Historic data on soluble silica in the offshore waters of Lake Michigan were compiled and analyzed to determine whether the data supported a decrease in silica concentration which had been hypothesized previously on the basis of other studies. Although the data base was limited and no data were obtained for offshore waters (depths >40 m) prior to 1954, the available data support the conclusion that the silica concentration decreased rapidly after 1954. The thesis is developed that rapid silica depletion occurred in the 15-year period from 1954 to 1969 when the winter maximum concentration decreased from approximately 4.4 to 1.4 mg SiO2 · 1−1 and the summer minimum decreased from approximately 2.2 to <0.2 mg SiO2 · 1−1. The decrease in silica concentration is attributed to increased production and sedimentation of diatoms that resulted from increased anthropogenic phosphorus loading. Total phosphorus in offshore waters was probably <10 μg P · 1−1 during the period of rapid silica depletion. The rapid decrease in silica concentration with relatively small phosphorus enrichment demonstrates that the tight coupling of biological and geochemical processes drastically affected the biogeochemistry of silica in a large, aquatic system within a relatively short period of time.
The Clinical and Adaptive Features of Young Offenders with Histories of Child-Parent Violence

This study compared the clinical and adaptive features of juvenile offenders (N = 223) who were violent towards their parents (CPV) with those who had no history of violence against their parents (NCPV). These two groups were also examined on demographic data, arrest findings, mental health issues, relationship findings, intellectual abilities, and school performance. Youths in the CPV group were more likely to (a) associate with peers who own guns, (b) affiliate with gang members, (c) belong to a gang, (d) have been psychiatrically hospitalized and medicated, (e) have attempted suicide, (f) come from a non-intact home, and (g) have trouble relating to their parents and other household members. The CPV group also committed a greater number of nondomestic violent offenses, while those in the NCPV group committed a greater number of property offenses. Analyses revealed no significant group differences on the Emotional Symptom Index and Personal Adjustment Composite of the Behavior Assessment System for Children; however, interaction effects were detected by gender and race.
Fiber sorting in the fasciculus gracilis of squirrel monkeys

Abstract Neuroanatomical and electrophysiological techniques were employed to determine the topographical organization of the fibers which comprise the fasciculus gracilis of the squirrel monkey at the upper lumbar and cervical levels of the spinal cord. Intradural posterior rhizotomies were performed and the ascending pattern of fiber degeneration in the ipsilateral fasciculus gracilis was determined with the modified Nauta or the Marchi techniques. The neuroanatomical studies indicated that there is a highly specific fiber re-sorting process taking place between lumbar and cervical levels of the fasciculus gracilis. Microelectrode recording techniques were utilized to determine the functional significance of the re-sorting process. One hundred and thirty-eight microelectrode penetrations of the lumbar and cervical fasciculus gracilis, yielding 1055 isolated and identified fibers, were reconstructed. On the basis of these single-unit data we conclude that the fibers of the fasciculus gracilis are re-sorted according to mode and place. The map of the hind limb in the cervical fasciculus gracilis more closely resembles the map of the hind limb in cortical areas S-I and S-II than does the representation at lumbar levels of the fasciculus gracilis.
The Origins of Commitment: Truman and West Berlin

Until the 1948–1949 Berlin blockade, the United States had not decided whether U.S. forces should remain in West Berlin after the establishment of a West German government. But after the Soviet Union closed off surface routes to West Berlin, the Truman administration embarked on a massive airlift and established a de facto commitment to preserve the western sectors' independence. The U.S. guarantee to West Berlin is difficult to explain from the standpoint of realist theories of foreign policymaking. Realism maintains that leaders should undertake commitments only if adequate power is available and that ends should be commensurate with means. West Berlin was indefensible, and its access routes could be restricted at any time. Only by analyzing the decision-making process from the standpoint of political psychology can scholars determine why U.S. policymakers acted as they did. President Harry Truman played a pivotal role in decision-making in Berlin, and he relied on his own judgment rather than policy an...
Stratified continuum percolation: Scaling geometry of hierarchical cascades

Stratified percolation patterns result from hierarchical cascades with continuous overlap. The pattern construction is a hybrid process, combining continuum percolation with random curdling. Stratified percolation is a correlated percolation with fractal dimensions that can be continuously tuned. The percolation threshold is found to vary with changing correlations. The density of percolating sites is approximately log-normal and can be described by a multifractal. Trends in the f(\ensuremath{\alpha}) curves are studied as fractal dimensions are changed. The finite-size-scaling properties are investigated using Monte Carlo real-space renormalization. Because the patterns have features at all length scales, stratified percolation has intrinsically small-cell renormalization properties. However, the small-cell properties can be removed by transforming the occupation fraction into an equivalent occupancy for standard uncorrelated continuum percolation. The transformed threshold is approximately invariant with respect to changing correlations and is close to the standard value of ${\mathit{a}}_{\mathit{c}}$=0.7 for isotropic continuum systems. Stratified percolation has a correlation length exponent of \ensuremath{\nu}=1.33\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.05.
The Effects of Orientation and Angularity of Pattern Elements on Visually Evoked Cortical Potentials

The effects of the presence of corners, angles, and line orientation in the P1-N2 components of visual evoked responses (VER) were studied. Results showed that the presence of a corner within a stimulus pattern was the most important variable affecting VER amplitudes. VERs evoked by stimuli containing at least one corner were of significantly greater amplitude than those evoked by stimuli containing no corners. The size of the angle also exerted a significant effect, with 90° angles producing largest amplitudes. These results were discussed with regard to previous findings.
Classical chaos and the sensitivity of the acoustic field to small-scale ocean structure

Abstract Ray theory is usually the basis of data inversion schemes for acoustic remote sensing of the ocean. Chaotic ray paths are expected to be present whenever the ocean environment possesses small-scale, range-dependent structure. We are studying the implications of their presence for data inversion schemes. Using numerical simulations we consider ray-path characteristics for acoustic remote sensing of the Florida Current. We find small-scale bathymetric structure results in chaotic ray paths and an exponential proliferation of eigenrays. As a result, for each feature in the time-of-arrival pattern, there is associated not a single eigenray but a group, thereby limiting the spatial resolution of a remote sensing system.
Validation of a brief nurse-administered migraine assessment tool.

Objective.—To validate a brief tool for screening migraine. Background.—Migraine is a common, but underdiagnosed condition. Effective utilization of nonphysician personnel to reliably screen patients for migraine may improve identification of migraineurs for clinical treatment and research. Methods.—An 8-question Migraine Assessment Tool (based on International Headache Society criteria) was designed for administration by a nurse with no specialized headache training as a pre-assessment for the diagnosis of migraine for use in either a research or clinical environment. A community sample of 80 adults (71 women, 9 men; mean age, 33.7 years; 80% white, 14% African American, 2.5% Asian American) with self-reported headache was recruited through advertisements. A headache specialist independently diagnosed subjects using clinical assessment, and a nurse who works in a balance disorder clinic used the Migraine Assessment Tool. Agreement between physician and nurse-administered Migraine Assessment Tool diagnoses was determined. Each subject returned in 2 to 4 weeks for a second assessment, administered by the same nurse. Agreement between the 2 diagnoses from the Migraine Assessment Tool was calculated. Results.—Comparison between diagnosis by the physician versus the Migraine Assessment Tool revealed a positive predictive value of 0.85; negative predictive value, 0.84; sensitivity, 0.89; specificity, 0.79; and observed agreement, 0.85. Cohen's kappa reliability measure was 0.69, indicating good test reliability. Interestingly, in 8 of the 12 cases of disagreement, the examiner diagnosing nonmigraine diagnosed analgesic overuse headache. Comparing diagnoses assigned by the 2 separate administrations of the Migraine Assessment Tool revealed a Cohen's kappa of 0.69. Notably, 9 of the 12 cases of nonagreement on the 2 assessments were due to subjects endorsing analgesic overuse in only 1 of the 2 testing sessions. Conclusions.—This study showed good reliability and stability of a new, brief, nurse-administered migraine questionnaire. In addition, the study also showed that consistency in self-reporting analgesic overuse within individuals with headache is poor. This suggests the need for repeat questioning about analgesic overuse on subsequent appointments to ensure absence of analgesic overuse headache.
Recreation Programs for Caregivers of Older Adults: A Review and Analysis of Literature from 1990 to 1998

Due to social, economic, and medical factors, more adults are choosing to care for ill or disabled relatives at home. Although leisure and recreation have particular benefits for informal family caregivers of older adults, caregivers often have limited social and leisure lives. The purpose of this paper is to use an integrative review technique (Jackson, 1980) to identify common factors in recreation and leisure and related programs for caregivers of older adults. A total of 22 journal articles were reviewed yielding five categories of programs. All programs were reviewed separately and recommendations for practice and future research are presented.
Slow motility in hair cells of the frog amphibian papilla: myosin light chain-mediated shape change.

Abstract Using video, fluorescence and confocal microscopy, quantitative analysis and modeling, we investigated intracellular processes mediating the calcium/calmodulin (Ca 2+ /CaM)-dependent slow motility in hair cells dissociated from the rostral region of amphibian papilla, one of the two auditory organs in frogs. The time course of shape changes in these hair cells during the period of pretreatment with several specific inhibitors, as well as their response to the calcium ionophore, ionomycin, were recorded and compared. These cells respond to ionomycin with a tri-phasic shape change: an initial phase of iso-volumetric length decrease; a period of concurrent shortening and swelling; and the final phase of increase in both length and volume. We found that both the myosin light chain kinase inhibitor, ML-7, and antagonists of the multifunctional Ca 2+ /CaM-dependent kinases, KN-62 and KN-93, inhibit the iso-volumetric shortening phase of the response to ionomycin. The type 1 protein phosphatase inhibitors, calyculin A and okadaic acid induce minor shortening on their own, but do not significantly alter phase 1 response. However, they appear to counter effects of the inhibitors of Ca 2+ /CaM-dependent kinases. We hypothesize that an active actomyosin-based process mediates the iso-volumetric shortening in the frog rostral amphibian papillar hair cells.
Gulf of California: A Result of Ocean-Floor Spreading and Transform Faulting

Ocean-floor spreading tore southern Baja California from mainland Mexico 4 million years ago and has subsequently rafted it 260 kilometers to the northwest along the Tamayo Fracture Zone. Magnetic-anomaly profiles indicate spreading at the mouth of the gulf at 3.0 centimeters per year and a rise-crest offset of 75 kilometers inside the gulf across the Tamayo Fracture Zone.
Changes in Superhelicity Are Introduced into Closed Circular DNA by Binding of High Mobility Group Protein I/Y

Mammalian high mobility group HMG-I/Y chromatin proteins bind to the minor groove of A•T-rich DNA sequences with high affinity both in vivo and in vitro. Topoisomerase I-mediated relaxation assays, analyzed by one- and two-dimensional agarose gel electrophoresis, indicate that binding of recombinant human HMG-I/Y to closed circular DNA introduces positive supercoils at low protein to nucleotide molar ratios and negative supercoils at higher ratios. This is interpreted to mean that HMG-I/Y binding initially causes bending of the DNA helix followed by unwinding of the helix. In contrast, binding of another minor groove binding ligand, netropsin, introduces positive supercoils only. An in vitro produced mutant HMG-I/Y protein lacking the negatively charged carboxyl-terminal domain binds A•T-rich DNA approximately 1.4-fold better than the native protein, yet it is estimated to be 8-10-fold more effective at introducing negative supercoils. This finding suggests that the highly acidic C-terminal region of the HMG-I/Y protein may function as a regulatory domain influencing the amount of topological change induced in DNA substrates by binding of the protein. Footprinting of HMG-I/Y on negatively supercoiled A•T-rich DNA using diethylpyrocarbonate suggests that the protein is able to recognize, bind to, and alter the conformation of non-B-form DNA.
Comparison of Russell viper venom-based and activated partial thromboplastin time-based screening assays for resistance to activated protein C.

Thrombotic disease is a significant cause of mortality and morbidity, with an estimated lifetime risk of greater than 10% in Western populations. One of the most common hereditary thrombophilias is the factor V Leiden mutation, which is identified with a screening assay for activated protein C (APC) resistance and confirmed by DNA analysis. In this study, we compared the commercially available Pefakit (Pentapharm, Basel, Switzerland) and Cryocheck (Precision BioLogic, Dartmouth, Canada) assays, 2 recently developed Russell viper venom (RVV)-based screening tests, with the activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT)based screening test currently used in our hospital’s clinical laboratory. We found that the aPTT-based assay for resistance to APC had a sensitivity of 100%, a specificity of 70%, and a positive predictive value (PPV) of 70%, whereas both of the RVV-based assays exhibited high sensitivity, specificity, and PPV at 100%. In addition, we found that these new functional assays are more cost-effective relative to the screening algorithm previously used in our clinical laboratory and could potentially eliminate the need for DNA analysis, although further study is required. Thrombosis is a pathogenic process in which clots are formed within arterial or venous systems that disrupt the normal flow of blood. Thrombotic disease is a significant cause of mortality and morbidity, with an estimated lifetime risk of greater than 10% in Western populations. 1,2 Venous thrombosis is more commonly associated with acquired risk factors such as surgery, hospitalization, malignancy, immobilization, pregnancy, autoimmune disease, and oral contraceptive use or can be caused by a number of genetic mutations that affect different clotting cascade 1 and fibrinolytic proteins.
Evaluating the Relationship Between Variance in Enzyme Expression and Toxicant Concentration in Health Risk Assessment

ABSTRACT The replacement of default uncertainty factors with those based on chemical-specific data is a topic of interest to a growing number of government-based organizations and those in affiliated professional societies. The division of the uncertainty factors for animal-to-human extrapolation and human interindividual variance (UFA and UFH, respectively) into their pharmacodynamic (PD) and pharmacokinetic (PK) components invites additional and specific considerations. Where data are available, or substantiated PK models have been developed, the animal-to-human chemical-specific differences have been quantified and utilized to replace the PK component of the uncertainty factor. The increasing degree to which the genome is being characterized has stimulated additional interest in describing the impact of genetic polymorphisms on susceptibility. Frequently, proteins for which the genes are being evaluated are the group of xenobiotic metabolizing enzymes. In-depth understanding of the genetic polymorphism...
Is early clinical evidence of autonomic shift predictive of infection after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage.

Background Autonomic shift (AS), characterized by increased sympathetic nervous system activation, has been implicated in neurologically mediated cardiopulmonary dysfunction and immunodepression after stroke. We investigated the prevalence of AS defined by readily available clinical parameters and determined the association of AS with subsequent infection in a cohort of patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). Methods Data were obtained from a single-center cohort study of aSAH patients admitted from January 1, 2007, through April 1, 2012. AS was defined as at least 1 early ( Results A total of 167 patients were included in the analysis (mean age 56, 27% men). AS was seen in 66 of 167 patients (40%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 32%-47%), and infection was seen in 80 of 167 patients (48%; 95% CI, 40%-55%). AS was associated with subsequent infection on unadjusted analysis (odds ratio [OR] 2.11; 95% CI, 1.12-3.97); however, this association was no longer significant when adjusting for other predictors of infection (OR 1.36; 95% CI, .67-2.76). Age, clinical grade, and aneurysm location were all independent predictors of infection after aSAH. Conclusions We identified AS based on readily available clinical markers in 40% of patients with aSAH, though AS defined by these clinical criteria was not an independent predictor of infection. Additional studies may be warranted to determine the optimal definition of AS and the clinical significance of this finding.
Consultations for liver disease patients.

Inpatient and outpatient consultation for patients with liver disease is commonly encountered in clinical gastroenterology practice. Many issues are complicated and infrequently seen. Some of the disease states have potential life-threatening consequences, causing anxiety for the practitioner. Further, there have been diagnostic and therapeutic advances for many of the problems, making the gastroenterologist somewhat uncomfortable when consultation is sought. This issue of Clinics in Liver Disease is entitled “Approach to Consultations to Patients with Liver Disease” and is intended to provide a framework for dealing with many of the vexing issues that face the clinical gastroenterologist on a daily basis. The articles are not exhaustive literature reviews: rather, they are clinical discussions that guide the practitioner on how to handle common consultations. The first article is entitled “Evaluation of Elevated Liver Enzymes” by Dr Kim. The next discussion is a clinical approach to the complicated topic of drug-induced liver disease by Dr Davern. The next article is a clinical approach to the patient with elevated alkaline phosphatase and hepatic cholestasis by Dr Kowdley. The following series of articles deal with troubling symptoms and complications observed in patients with chronic liver disease. Dr Gordon discusses the evaluation and management of ascites and hepatorenal syndrome, and Dr Poordad provides a description of the state-of-the-art assessment and management of hepatic encephalopathy. A presentation of shortness of breath in the cirrhotic patient involves a unique set of problems that is described by Dr Kwo. Dr Reddy outlines the management of the particularly troublesome issue of pruritus in patients with chronic liver disease. Several difficult disease entities are presented thereafter. Alcoholic hepatitis is discussed by Dr Runyon, and hepatitis B virus infection is presented by Dr Gish. I have written an article on the common problem of granulomatous liver disease. The frequently encountered issue of evaluation and management of liver lesions is outlined
Wafer fused AlGaAs/GaAs/GaN HBTs with current gain of ~ 20 and f T of ~ 2.6 GHz

Wafer fusion is a powerful technique in integrating heterogeneous materials. The most well known example is silicon-on-insulator (SOI), and the more recent success is the hybrid silicon laser. Most often the fused interface is incorporated in a device structure where its electronic properties are not crucial to the device performance, considering this interface is normally more defective than epitaxial growth interfaces or thermal oxidation interfaces. However, Levine et al. (1997). demonstrated 20 GHz operation of planar Si/InGaAs p-i-n photodetectors with very low dark current using wafer fusion, suggesting that a fusion interface may be of high quality and situated in the device active region. To this end, we have explored the double heterojunction AlGaAs/GaAs/GaN bipolar transistor using wafer fusion, which are otherwise difficult to grow epitaxially. This device structure takes advantage of the superior p-type doping and transport properties of the (Al)GaAs material system and the high breakdown voltage in GaN, which could be promising for high-speed high-power applications. We report here the DC performance of these devices upon optimizing wafer fusion conditions and the performance of the RF devices, which have been realized for the first time.
The Score Statistic in Constancy Testing for a Discrete Hazard Rate

In discrete failure analysis, variable hazard-rate functions can often yield the constant hazard rate as a special case. In many such instances it is of interest to test statistically, using failure data, whether the hazard rate is constant or variable. The purpose of this article is to examine, using examples, the advantages of the score statistic in such tests. While the score statistic is based on the gradient of the log-likelihood function, the complexities often associated with maximum likelihood estimation and testing do not arise when the score statistic is used to test the constancy of the hazard rate. In particular, the appropriate score statistic can be calculated using simple linear least-squares regression techniques. The results are applied to failure data on electrical power transformers.