cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Verification of pure moment testing in a multi-degree of freedom spine testing apparatus.

Abstract Background Pure moment testing is a common method used in cadaveric spine testing. The fundamental basis for the widespread acceptance of applying a pure moment is uniform loading along the column of the spine. To the author’s knowledge, this protocol has not been experimentally verified on a multi-degree-of-freedom testing apparatus. Due to its ubiquitous use in spine biomechanics laboratories, confirmation of this comparative cadaveric test protocol is paramount. Methods Group A specimens (n = 13) were used to test the pure moment protocol, using 3 constructs that changed the number of involved vertebrae, orientation and rigidity of the spine construct. Group B specimens (n = 6) were used to determine if potting orientation, testing order or degradation affected the range of motion (ROM) using 8 constructs. Each group was subjected to 3 cycles of flexion-extension, lateral bending and axial torsion. The data from the third cycle was used to calculate the ROM for each method. Results Group A testing resulted in significant differences in ROM across the 3 constructs for lateral bending and axial torsion ( P P = 0.055). Group B testing showed an increase in ROM across 8 constructs ( P Conclusion The increased ROM across constructs observed in both groups indicates that the cause is likely due to the testing order or degradation of the specimens, with orientation having no observed effect. The data does not invalidate pure moment testing and its use should persist.
Aural involvement in loxoscelism: Case report and literature review

An 11-year-old male presented with fever, rash, and a necrotic lesion on the lobule of the left ear. The lesion became tender and formed an eschar over 4 days. The patient developed leukocytosis, hemolytic anemia, and proteinuria, and was diagnosed with systemic loxoscelism from a brown recluse spider bite. He was managed with supportive therapy and improved in 4 days. Loxoscelism is a clinical diagnosis which should be suspected in an otherwise healthy patient with a necrotic wound, particulary in the endemic Southern and Midwestern United States. Physicians should be aware of this disease entity and its complications.
Passive sensing and imaging for GIS-PMS: system concept and challenges

A GIS-based data management system has been proposed for pavement management due to the spatial capability in organizing diverse geo-referenced information. The technology can be further enhanced by nondestructive distributed sensing. To target a wide study area, this research proposes a low-cost vibro-acousto passive sensing technique that embeds within roadways for long-term sensing. Using self-sustaining MEM sensors, the technology detects acoustic signals and use relative rating to assess pavement conditions. The detection technique echoes the traditional chain-drag technology in that the same sound detection is deployed. Coupling with previously established AMPIS pavement imaging and distress detection technique, the proposed system can evolve to be a more powerful new-generation GIS-PMS. This paper introduces the system concept and describes the philosophy behind the system and some of the challenges that we are currently attempting to solve.
nNOS-dependent reactivity of cerebral arterioles in Type 1 diabetes.

Our goals were to determine whether Type 1 diabetes (T1D) alters neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) dependent reactivity of cerebral arterioles and to identify a potential role for oxidative stress in T1D-induced impairment in nNOS-dependent responses of cerebral arterioles. Rats were injected with vehicle (sodium citrate buffer) or streptozotocin (50 mg/kg IP) to induce T1D. Two to three months later, we measured functional responses of cerebral arterioles to nNOS-dependent (NMDA and kainate) and -independent (nitroglycerin) agonists in nondiabetic and diabetic rats before and during inhibition of oxidative stress using tempol (100 μM). In addition, we measured superoxide anion production under basal conditions, during stimulation with NMDA and kainate, and during treatment with tempol. We found that nNOS-dependent, but not -independent, vasodilatation was impaired in diabetic compared to nondiabetic rats. In addition, treatment of the cerebral microcirculation with tempol restored impaired nNOS-dependent vasodilatation in diabetic rats towards that observed in nondiabetic rats. Further, the production of superoxide anion (lucigenin chemiluminescence) was increased in parietal cortical tissue of diabetic rats under basal conditions. Application of NMDA and kainate did not increase superoxide anion production in nondiabetic or diabetic rats. However, tempol decreased basal production of superoxide anion in diabetic rats. Our findings suggest that T1D impairs nNOS dependent dilatation of cerebral arterioles by a mechanism that appears to be related to the formation of superoxide anion.
Insulin Receptors and Downstream Substrates Associate with Membrane Microdomains after Treatment with Insulin or Chromium(III) Picolinate

We have examined the association of insulin receptors (IR) and downstream signaling molecules with membrane microdomains in rat basophilic leukemia (RBL-2H3) cells following treatment with insulin or tris(2-pyridinecarbxylato)chromium(III) (Cr(pic)3). Single-particle tracking demonstrated that individual IR on these cells exhibited reduced lateral diffusion and increased confinement within 100 nm-scale membrane compartments after treatment with either 200 nM insulin or 10 μM Cr(pic)3. These treatments also increased the association of native IR, phosphorylated insulin receptor substrate 1 and phosphorylated AKT with detergent-resistant membrane microdomains of characteristically high buoyancy. Confocal fluorescence microscopic imaging of Di-4-ANEPPDHQ labeled RBL-2H3 cells also showed that plasma membrane lipid order decreased following treatment with Cr(pic)3 but was not altered by insulin treatment. Fluorescence correlation spectroscopy demonstrated that Cr(pic)3 did not affect IR cell-surface density or compete with insulin for available binding sites. Finally, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy indicated that Cr(pic)3 likely associates with the lipid interface in reverse-micelle model membranes. Taken together, these results suggest that activation of IR signaling in a cellular model system by both insulin and Cr(pic)3 involves retention of IR in specialized nanometer-scale membrane microdomains but that the insulin-like effects of Cr(pic)3 are due to changes in membrane lipid order rather than to direct interactions with IR.
Patterns of occupant interaction with window blinds: A literature review

Abstract There is no comprehensive consensus about the way people operate blinds or the motivating factors that influence their decisions. However, there is a substantial body of research, encompassing data from more than 50 buildings worldwide, that offers guidance. Patterns of blind use can affect the energy consumption of buildings substantially and therefore energy and daylighting simulations that do not account properly for these blind use patterns will have greater error. An outline for a new more nuanced model for simulation-based blind control is offered. Specifically, this paper reviews the energy implications of blind use, blind occlusion and rate of change from field studies, specific quantitative measures influencing user blind control, investigations into user acceptance of automated blind control, and finally conclusions and knowledge gaps are summarized and suggested next steps for research are provided. Addressing these gaps is critical for the continued progress of the energy efficiency movement.
A survey of prescriber perceptions about the prevention of stress-related mucosal bleeding in the intensive care unit.

SummaryWhat is known and objective Practices vary between institutions and amongst prescribers regarding when to initiate stress ulcer prophylaxis (SUP), which agent to choose (including doses and frequencies) and rationale, and decisions about escalation or discontinuation of therapy. The purpose of this survey is to evaluate the perceptions of prescribers about risk assessment of stress-related mucosal bleeding (SRMB) and practice patterns of SUP. Methods A cross-sectional survey of 800 US critical care prescribers using the membership of the Society of Critical Care Medicine. The levels of agreement with specific statements were rated on a nine-point Likert scale. Results Of 712 eligible recipients, 245 (34·4%) completed the questionnaire. Respondents were primarily attending physicians (81·2%) working in adult medical or surgical (59·2%) intensive care units. Mucosal ischaemia was identified as the pathophysiological cause of SRMB by 110 (44·9%) respondents. Respondents agreed that risk factors for SRMB were acute hepatic failure, anticoagulant use, burns >35%, coagulopathy, absence of enteral feeding, recent gastroduodenal ulcer, corticosteroid use, Helicobacter pylori infection, neurologic injury, trauma, NSAID use, mechanical ventilation, shock and sepsis. Histamine subtype 2 receptor antagonists (58·4%) and proton pump inhibitors (39·6%) were the most frequently chosen agents. No consensus was reached about whether either class is associated with clostridium difficile infection or nosocomial pneumonia. Reasons to discontinue therapy included clinically improved patient status (73·1%), extubation (68·2%), reversal of ‘nil-by-mouth’ (68·6%) and transfer to a non-ICU setting (67·8%). What is new and conclusions Considerable variability exists in the perceptions surrounding risk factors for SRMB and prescribing patterns for SUP therapy likely because limited or conflicting data are available addressing these issues. Opportunities exist to educate prescribers and conduct research about the pathologic cause and risk factors for SRMB, the preferred class of agents, and the appropriate discontinuation of therapy.
Novel Explant Model to Study Mechanotransduction and Cell-Cell Communication

To understand in situ behavior of osteocytes, we characterized a model of osteocytes in their native bone matrix and demonstrated real-time biologic activity of osteocytes while bending the bone matrix. Using 43 male Sprague-Dawley rats, dumbbell-shaped explants were harvested from stainless steel femoral implants after 6-12 weeks and incubated in culture medium or fixed. Sixteen specimens were used to determine bone volume density (BV/TV), volumetric bone mineral density (BMD) and histology for different implantation periods. Osteocyte viability was evaluated by L-lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity in 12 cultured explants. Confocal microscopy was used to assess tracer diffusion in three explants and changes in osteocyte pH of a mechanically loaded explant. From 6 to 12 weeks, explant BV/TV and volumetric BMD trended up 92.5% and 101%, respectively. They were significantly and highly correlated. Tissues were uniformly intramembranous and all bone cell types were present. Explants maintained LDH activity through culture day 8. Diffusion at 200 microM was limited to 1,209 Da. Explants appeared capable of reproducing complex bone biology. This model may be useful in understanding osteocyte mechanotransduction in the context of a physiologically relevant bone matrix.
Enhancement of critical current density of YBa2Cu3O7 − δ thin films by self-assembly of Y2O3 nanoparticulates

Abstract YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7 − δ (YBCO) thin films, possessing high critical current density ( J c ), have been synthesized by embedding a homogeneous array of Y 2 O 3 non-superconducting nanoclusters/nanoparticles using a pulsed laser deposition technique. The size, interparticle spacing, and density of Y 2 O 3 nanoparticles in YBCO thin films were tailored by varying the number of laser pulses in order to determine the optimum size for effective immobilization of vortices. Scanning transmission electron microscopy with atomic number contrast and X-ray diffraction techniques were used to determine the size and structure of the nanoparticles. Both techniques indicate that the Y 2 O 3 particles are epitaxial with respect to the surrounding YBCO matrix. The information about pinning of vortices by the nanoparticles was obtained by investigating the behavior of critical current density as a function of temperature and applied field, which in turn determines the vortex density in the sample. The superconducting transition temperature ( T c ) of YBCO films with the inclusion of nanoparticles was observed to remain almost the same or decrease marginally (1–2 K) with respect to T c of pure YBCO films deposited under identical conditions. However, J c s of YBCO films embedded with self-assembled nanoparticles were found to be significantly higher than that of pure YBCO films. The J c enhancement was up to five times in high magnetic field, which is a key requirement for practical application of high- T c materials.
Motility of Spermatozoa and Control of Bacteria in Bovine Semen Extenders Containing Sulfanilamide, Polymyxin and Aureomycin

Summary The effect of polymyxins D, B and E and aureomycin on the motility of bovine spermatozoa and upon the control of bacterial growth in bovine semen extended with citrate buffered yolk and stored at 5° C. was investigated. It was found that 2000 μg. of polymyxins D, B or E, or 100 μg. of aureomycin could be added per ml. of extender without spermicidal effects. These levels of antiobiotics were highly bacteriostatic and/or bactericidal.
Experimental Examination of the Contingency Model and the Leader-Environment-Follower Interaction Theory of Leadership:

The intent of this paper was to examine basic hypotheses of Fiedler's contingency theory concerning the relationship of situational variables with the effectiveness of leadership styles. The paper also examines the content validity of the LPC scale. In addition the paper tests the basic position of the Leader-Environment-Follower Interaction (LEFI) Theory that leaders' facilitation of followers' ability, goals, role perception, and environment yields increased performance. The subjects included 107 female and 149 male students from introductory classes in management. 64 were selected as leaders and were trained to behave in a manner designed to vary the LEFI Theory variables. An assembly-simulation task was performed by the followers. Fiedler's Least Preferred Co-worker (LPC) scores and his measures of situational variables were completed by the leader at the conclusion of the session. The LPC scores correlated with followers' performance in the direction opposite that predicted by Fiedler. Situational ef...
Theoretical study of anomalously high F region peak altitudes in the polar ionosphere

It is pointed out that during the last solar maximum period several observations of anomalously high F region peak altitudes (hmF2) have been made by high latitude incoherent scatter radars. In the present investigation, a high latitude time-dependent F region model (HLTD) was used to study a range of differing plasma transport processes in order to identify possible source mechanisms for the anomalously high hmF2's. A description of model parameters is presented, and region density profiles are discussed. Attention is given to the solar maximum, the solar minimum, and the asymmetric wind. The results of the HLTD model study of transport effects for a wide range of solar cycle, season, magnetic activity, and neutral wind conditions show that high hmF2 values in the polar cap can be generated without the need for auroral particle precipitation.
A High-Throughput Technique Reveals the Load- and Site Density-Dependent Kinetics of E-Selectin

The kinetics of bond rupture between receptors and ligand are critically dependent on applied mechanical force. Force spectroscopy of single receptor-ligand pairs to measure kinetics is a laborious and time-consuming process that is generally performed using individual force probes and making one measurement at a time when typically hundreds of measurements are needed. A high-throughput approach is thus desirable. We report here a magnetic bond puller that provides high-throughput measurements of single receptor-ligand bond kinetics. Electromagnets are used to apply pN tensile and compressive forces to receptor-coated magnetic microspheres while monitoring their contact with a ligand-coated surface. Bond lifetimes and the probability of forming a bond are measured via videomicroscopy, and the data are used to determine the load dependent rates of bond rupture and bond formation. The approach is simple, customizable, relatively inexpensive, and can make dozens of kinetic measurements simultaneously. We used the device to investigate how compressive and tensile forces affect the rates of formation and rupture, respectively, of bonds between E-selectin and sialyl Lewisa (sLea), a sugar on P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1 to which selectins bind. We confirmed earlier findings of a load-dependent rate of bond formation between these two molecules, and that they form a catch-slip bond like other selectin family members. We also make the novel observation of an “ideal” bond in a highly multivalent system of this receptor-ligand pair.
The Construction of Lay Expertise: AIDS Activism and the Forging of Credibility in the Reform of Clinical Trials

In an unusual instance of lay participation in biomedical research, U.S. AIDS treatment activists have constituted themselves as credible participants in the process of knowledge construction, thereby bringing about changes in the epistemic practices of biomedical research. This article examines the mechanisms or tactics by which these lay activists have constructed their credibility in the eyes of AIDS researchers and government officials. It considers the inwlications of such interventions for the conduct of medical research; examines some of the ironies, tensions, and limitations in the process; and argues for the importance of studying social movements that engage with expert knowledge.
New Methods for Computing Inferences in First Order Logic

Recent improvements in satisfiability algorithms for propositional logic have made partial instantiation methods for first order predicate logic computationally more attractive. Two such methods have been proposed, one by Jeroslow and a hypergraph method for datalog formulas by Gallo and Rago. We show that they are instances of two general approaches to partial instantiation, and we develop these approaches for a large decidable fragment of first order logic (the ∃∀ fragment).
Systemic sclerosis and impotence: a clinicopathological correlation.

AbstractA hypothesis of the mechanism of systemic sclerosis associated impotence was developed by making a clinicopathological correlation between the results of preoperative erectile function testing and those of pathological examination of excised erectile tissue in an impotent man with systemic sclerosis. Preoperative examination revealed firm corporeal tissue with diminished penile stretch capability. Pharmacocavernosometry/pharmacocavernosography under conditions consistent with trabecular smooth muscle relaxation revealed severe diffuse corporeal veno-occlusive dysfunction. During penile implantation surgery the compact erectile tissue was unable to be dilated and required sharp corporeal tissue excision under direct vision to achieve cylinder insertion. Histological investigation of the excised corporeal tissue demonstrated severe corporeal fibrosis. Computer assisted color histomorphometry revealed that the mean percentage of trabecular smooth muscle area to total erectile tissue area was 18.2 plu...
The wavelength component vectorgram: A tool for resolving two‐component fluorescent mixtures

We consider the problem of resolving the total luminescence spectra of two-component mixtures. Non-negativity of the constituent spectra is commonly used as a criterion to accomplish this resolution, but its application seldom leads to unique answers. Sometimes, the condition must be relaxed because no solution satisfying non-negativity exists. In these cases judgments must be made concerning which parts of the spectra will be allowed to go negative and by how much. The wavelength component vectorgramn (WCV) is presented here as a tool for assisting the experimenter in making these judgments. Even when non-negative resolutions exist, it may happen that resolutions with slight negative elements will more closely match the spectra of the pure constituents. The WCV can also be used as a tool for detecting these cases. The methodology is illustrated with real data from a two-component mixture.
A New Conservation Element Based Numerical Scheme for Solving the Euler Equations

*In the last decade the space-time conservation element and solution element (CESE) method has emerged as a useful numerical technique for solving the conservation laws. Unlike other conventional numerical techniques, the CESE method treats the solution slope as an independent unknown variable that is determined by a weighted averaging of the biased differences. In this paper, we propose a new weighted averaging equation to evaluate the solution slope. The weighted averaging equation is designed so that it will give good numerical accuracy in smooth solution regions and adequate numerical dissipation in sharp solution discontinuities. Our scheme is applied to solve the Euler equations and is tested with benchmark problems. It is showed that the new scheme is robust, accurate, and is able to capture shock and contact discontinuities sharply. Furthermore, our new scheme is Courant number insensitive. In this respect, the new scheme is similar to an advanced CESE scheme called the scheme II. However, it is also showed that the new scheme appears to be more advantageous than the scheme II in resolving strong contact discontinuities.
Search and Rescue Trends Associated With Recreational Travel in US National Parks

Background National parks are popular travel destinations worldwide. Unfortunately, negative health experiences can and do occur during travel in national parks. This study investigated search and rescue (SAR) trends associated with recreational travel in US National Park Service (NPS) units. Methods A retrospective study was conducted of the Annual US National Park Service Search and Rescue Report for the years 2003 to 2006. Results From 2003 to 2006, there were 12,337 SAR operations involving 15,537 visitors. The total operational costs were US$16,552,053. The operations ended with 522 fatalities, 4,860 ill or injured visitors, and 2,855 saves. Almost half (40%) of the operations occurred on Saturday and Sunday, and visitors aged 20 to 29 years were involved in 23% of the incidents. Males accounted for 66.3% of the visitors requiring SAR assistance. Day hiking, motorized boating, swimming, overnight hiking, and nonmotorized boating were the participant activities resulting in the most SAR operations. The vast majority of visitors requiring SAR assistance were located within a 24-hour period, and the most common rescue environments were mountain areas between 1,524 and 4,572 m, lakes, rivers, oceans, and coastal areas. An error in judgment, fatigue and physical conditions, and insufficient equipment, clothing, and experience were the most common contributing factors. Conclusions SAR incidents can be expensive and end with severe health consequences. NPS management should develop education and preventive efforts focused on hikers, boaters, and swimmers who are males and aged 20 to 29 years, addressing issues of adequate judgment, preparation, and experience.
Time-dependent changes in spontaneous respiratory activity in turtle brainstems in vitro.

Abstract Our goal was to determine whether time-dependent changes in respiratory motor output in vitro could be minimized by altering bath solution composition. Adult turtle brainstems were bathed in standard solution, nutrient-rich Dulbecco's Eagle media (100 or 25% concentration), or standard solution with phenylbiguanide (PBG, 5-HT 3 agonist which increases respiratory drive). Except for a 63% frequency increase in PBG solution, hypoglossal bursts were unaltered within 100 min of observation. Respiratory activity was abolished within 7 h in 100% Dulbecco's compared with a mean of 24–31 h in other test solutions. At 12 h, burst frequency decreased faster in standard solution and 25% Dulbecco's (−0.28±0.07 and −0.13±0.05 bursts/h, respectively) compared with PBG solution (−0.09±0.04 bursts/h); amplitude declined at ∼2%/h in all solutions. The tendency for episodic discharge decreased gradually in standard solution, but was eliminated in 25% Dulbecco's and PBG solution. Certain bath solutions may minimize time-dependent frequency reductions but may also cause breathing pattern changes.
Systems analysis of bone

The genetic variants contributing to variability in skeletal traits has been well studied, and several hundred QTLs have been mapped and several genes contributing to trait variation have been identified. However, many questions remain unanswered. In particular, it is unclear whether variation in a single gene leads to alterations in function. Bone is a highly adaptive system and genetic variants affecting one trait are often accompanied by compensatory changes in other traits. The functional interactions among traits, which is known as phenotypic integration, has been observed in many biological systems, including bone. Phenotypic integration is a property of bone that is critically important for establishing a mechanically functional structure that is capable of supporting the forces imparted during daily activities. In this paper, bone is reviewed as a system and primarily in the context of functionality. A better understanding of the system properties of bone will lead to novel targets for future genetic analyses and the identification of genes that are directly responsible for regulating bone strength. This systems analysis has the added benefit of leaving a trail of valuable information about how the skeletal system works. This information will provide novel approaches to assessing skeletal health during growth and aging and for developing novel treatment strategies to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with fragility fractures.
Skin cancer concerns particular to women

Abstract Background Skin cancer has reached epidemic proportions, with more new cases diagnosed annually than the combined incidence of cancers of the breast, prostate, lung, and colon. Estimates show 2 to 3 million new cases of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) every year, and, among women, it is the young (younger than 45 years) who are disproportionately affected. Objective This article aims to address questions and concerns pertinent to skin cancer in a woman-centric way. An updated landscape of causative factors, the latest detection/treatment methods, and ultimately the preventative measures available to them are described. Methods A broad literature search was conducted using the PubMed database with search terms focusing on female gender. Additional articles were identified from cited references. Conclusions The published findings on causation of melanoma skin cancer and non-melanoma skin cancer in females are outlined, as well as current detection methods and treatment options. Furthermore, a variety of preventative measures specific to women that can reduce the chance of being diagnosed with skin cancer are discussed.
Sustaining RtI through Consultee-Centered Consultation

Response-to-intervention (RtI) models utilize a proactive, prevention approach that requires the implementation of a sophisticated, multi-tiered problem-solving process in the regular education environment. Effective and sustainable implementation of these models will necessitate a mechanism to support professional development, treatment fidelity, and the transportability of evidence-based interventions to the unique ecologies of individual school sites. This paper discusses problems related to the implementation of RtI models and outlines professional development issues related to implementation. A case is then made for the use of consultee-centered consultation, because of its focus on consultee development, to sustain the implementation and dissemination of RtI models in schools. The article ends with a presentation of how one RtI model, Instructional Consultation, integrates consultee-centered consultation into its implementation and professional development procedures.
Phase shift of the electromagnetic waves due to dry snow

Based on the point matching technique, the phase shift of the electromagnetic waves due to dry snow is computed. The analysis is restricted to the forward-scattering direction from oblate spheroidal dry snow. Numerical results are obtained for two orthogonal polarizations of the incident wave. The calculations are made for various microwave frequencies, between 6 and 100 GHz, and also for different precipitation rates, between 0.5 and 3 mm/hr. The effect of the frequency and the precipitation rate on the phase shift is examined. It is found that at a fixed value of the precipitation rate, the phase shift of both polarizations decreases with increasing frequency. It is also observed that at a fixed frequency, the phase shift of both polarizations decreases with increasing precipitation rate. The differential phase shift is found to follow the same trend as the phase shift for frequencies greater than 20 GHz and are negligible for frequencies below 20 GHz. In addition, it is found that the phase shift of snow decreases with snow wetness for fixed precipitation rate and frequency.
Does EEG predict response to valproate versus lithium in patients with mania

A number of factors may suggest that a patient with mania may respond to valproate or to lithium. However, prediction of which patients will respond to either medication remains difficult. In this study nonepileptiform EEG abnormalities in responders to each medication were investigated. Six of 20 patients (30%) responsive to lithium but not to valproate had nonepileptiform EEG abnormalities while 14 of 20 patients (70%) responsive to valproate but not to lithium had nonepileptiform EEG abnormalities. Patients presenting with mania and EEG abnormalities, particularly sharp activity, are statistically more likely (χ2 = 4.9, df = 1, p = .027) to respond to valproate than to lithium. Whether such a finding will also hold true for other anticonvulsants used to treat mania remains to be seen.
Inclusion in PK‐12: an international perspective

With an aim to investigate inclusion across borders, quantitative and qualitative data were examined that came from 18 countries: Australia, Brazil, Canada, Cyprus, Finland, France, Iceland, India, Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, the UK, and the USA. Four themes emerged in this study: (1) concerns with student outcomes in inclusive settings; (2) teachers’ beliefs and the ways they relate to their practices; (3) inclusive schools philosophies and practices; and (4) the intersection of inclusion and exclusion. Although international policies, knowledge, and understanding about inclusion and inclusive practices continue to advance throughout the world, there are manifestations of provincialism and discrimination predominantly marked by ethnicity, socio‐economic status, and ability. While a reality for some students, inclusion remains an aspiration for too many.
A subspace method for maximum likelihood target detection

We present an unsupervised technique for visual target modeling which is based on density estimation in high-dimensional spaces using an eigenspace decomposition. A computationally efficient and optimal estimator for a multivariate Gaussian distribution is derived. This density estimate is then used to formulate a maximum likelihood estimation framework for visual search and target detection. Our learning technique is applied to the probabilistic visual modeling and subsequent detection of facial features and is shown to be superior to matched filtering.
Predicting clinical physiology: a Markov chain model of heart rate recovery after spontaneous breathing trials in mechanically ventilated patients.

Analysis of heart rate (HR) dynamics before, during, and after a physiologic stress has clinical importance. For example, the celerity of heart rate recovery (HRR) after a cardiac stress test (eg, treadmill exercise test) has been shown to be an independent predictor of all-cause mortality. Heart rate dynamics are modulated, in part, by the autonomic nervous system. These dynamics are commonly abstracted using metrics of heart rate variability (HRV), which are known to be sensitive to the influence of the autonomic nervous system on HR. The patient-specific modulators of HR should be reflected both in the response to stress as well as in the recovery from stress. We therefore hypothesized that the patient-specific HR response to stress could be used to predict the HRR after the stress. We devised a Markov chain model to predict the poststress HRR dynamics using the parameters (transition matrix) calculated from HR data during the stress. The model correctly predicts the exponential shape of poststress HRR. This model features a simple analytical relationship linking poststress HRR time constant (T(off)) with a standard measure of HRV, namely the correlation coefficient of the Poincare plot (first return map) of the HR recorded during the stress. A corresponding relationship exists between the time constant (T(on)) of R-R interval decrease at the onset of stress and the correlation coefficient of the Poincare plot of prestress R-R intervals. Consequently, the model can be used for the prediction of poststress HRR using the HRV measured during the stress. This direct relationship between the event-to-event microscopic fluctuations (HRV) during the stress and the macroscopic response (HRR) after the stress terminates can be interpreted as an instance of a fluctuation-dissipation relationship. We have thus applied the fluctuation-dissipation theorem to the analysis of heart rate dynamics. The approach is specific neither to cardiac physiology nor to transitions between mechanical and free ventilation as a specific stress. It may therefore have wider applicability to physiologic systems subject to modest stresses.
p21-activated Kinase-1 (PAK1) Inhibition of the Human Scavenger Receptor Class B, Type I Promoter in Macrophages Is Independent of PAK1 Kinase Activity, but Requires the GTPase-binding Domain

Scavenger receptor class B, type I (SR-BI), is a high density lipoprotein receptor that mediates the flux of cholesterol between high density lipoprotein and cells. Recent evidence suggests that SR-BI plays a role in atherosclerosis and that inflammatory mediators down-regulate SR-BI in the macrophage. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the ability of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to down-regulate the activity of the human SR-BI promoter in the macrophage and to delineate the mechanisms involved. Experiments with cultured cells and in vivo derived macrophages showed that LPS has a powerful suppressive effect on SR-BI expression both in vitro and in vivo. Transient transfection studies demonstrated that LPS represses SR-BI promoter activity in the macrophage cell line RAW 264.7. Cotransfection with either a constitutively active p21-activated protein kinase-1 (PAK1) construct (T423E) or a kinase-deficient PAK1 construct (K299R) resulted in repression of the SR-BI promoter, similar to LPS. These results demonstrate that PAK1-mediated down-regulation of the SR-BI promoter is independent of PAK1 kinase activity and suggest that PAK1 mediates the LPS-induced decrease in promoter activity. Cotransfection with constitutively active Cdc42 or Rac expression constructs also resulted in down-regulation of the promoter; whereas the dominant-negative Cdc42 and Rac constructs elevated basal promoter activity and blunted the LPS response. Cotransfection of PAK1 constructs containing mutations in both the kinase domain and the Cdc42/Rac-binding domain attenuated the PAK1-mediated down-regulation of the promoter, suggesting that Rac and Cdc42 are required for PAK1-mediated decreases in SR-BI promoter activity. 5′-Deletion analysis and gel shift data suggest that LPS inhibits binding of a novel transcription factor to a myeloid zing finger protein-1-like element (−476 to −456) in the human SR-BI promoter. These results demonstrate that the PAK1 pathway down-regulates the SR-BI promoter and suggest that activation of this pathway may play an important role in cholesterol trafficking in the vessel wall.
Assessing ideal theories: Lessons from the theory of second best

Numerous philosophers allege that the “general theory of second best” poses a challenge to the Target View, which asserts that real-world reform efforts should aim to establish arrangements that conform to the constitutive features of ideally just states of affairs. I demonstrate two claims that are relevant in this context. First, I show that the theory of second best fails to present a compelling challenge to the Target View in general. But, second, the theory of second best requires ideal theorists to undertake certain kinds of causal and comparative analyses that are typically thought to lie outside the remit of conventional ideal theory.
Dichroic polarization at mid-infrared wavelengths: a Bayesian approach

A fast and general Bayesian inference framework to infer the physical properties of dichroic polarization using mid-infrared imaging- and spectro-polarimetric observations is presented. The Bayesian approach is based on a hierarchical regression and No-U-Turn Sampler method. This approach simultaneously infers the normalized Stokes parameters to find the full family of solutions that best describe the observations. In comparison with previous methods, the developed Bayesian approach allows the user to introduce a customized absorptive polarization component based on the dust composition, and the appropriate extinction curve of the object. This approach allows the user to obtain more precise estimations of the magnetic field strength and geometry for tomographic studies, and information about the dominant polarization components of the object. Based on this model, imaging-polarimetric observations using two or three filters located in the central 9.5-10.5 $\mu$m, and the edges 8-9 $\mu$m and/or 11-13 $\mu$m, of the wavelength range are recommended to optimally disentangle the polarization mechanisms.
The Conception of Global Macroeconomic Spherical Model (全球宏观经济球体模型的构思)

English Abstract: The conception of global macroeconomic spherical model is a three-dimensional space model, which is proposed under the integration of global economy and the globalization of network. In view of the financial crisis in USA in 2008, the output of its crisis has been changed into the global financial crisis under such a circumstance, resulting in the butterfly effect all over the world.Based on the parameters of big countries and economic entities, this spherical model calculates the change of sphere volume and the influence caused by various parameters to the sphere at the aim of predicting the trend of global macroeconomic development and economic effect between countries. Compared with the two-dimensional model, this model is much more vivid and easily understood.Chinese Abstract: 摘 要 全球宏观经济球体模型的构思，是基于当前市场经济全球化、经济组织全球化和经济危机全球化及网上交易全球化的背景而提出的一种三维空间模型。同时，也是基于2008年美国的金融危机，可以通过上述背景而将本国的经济危机输出演变为全球经济危机，产生蝴蝶效应这一事实。 该模型构思以主要权重国家和经济体宏观经济变化的参数，推算球体模型体积的变化及各种参数对球体的影响，从而推断全球宏观经济的发展趋势，及国与国之间的经济影响。它比一般平面模型更形象、生动和容易理解。
Unusual Clinical Presentations and Mechanism of Bilateral Thalamic Infarcts: A Case Series (P06.250)

Objective: To highlight the breadth of clinical syndromes and mechanisms of artery of Percheron territory strokes. Background Simultaneous bilateral thalamic infarction represents a relatively rare stroke syndrome. The underlying vascular anatomy often suspected in these cases is a variant of the posterior circulation first described by Percheron in 1975, wherein the paramedian thalami as well as rostral midbrain structures are supplied by a single arterial branch of the proximal posterior cerebral artery. The artery of Percheron, though difficult to visualize even with conventional angiography, may be present in as many as one third of patients. Pathophysiologically, these strokes can be attributed to athero- or thromboembolic phenomena, or result from hypoperfusion due to poor cardiac output. The classical clinical presentation is described as a triad of hypersomnolence, amnesia, and vertical gaze paresis. However, in practice, presentations can be far more variable, with a myriad of cognitive and behavioral changes in addition to eye findings, representing a challenge to the clinician in terms of both lesion localization and determination of etiology. Design/Methods: Case series. Data collected from chart review, serial neurologic examinations. Results: We present a series of three cases of bilateral paramedian thalamic infarcts. In one, we report for the first time an association with WEBINO (wall-eyed bilateral internuclear ophthalmoplegia) syndrome, itself a rare phenomenon with fewer than 20 cases reported in the English literature.We describe another patient with unilateral oculomotor nerve palsy, an unusual stroke presentation. Finally, we present a patient with amnesia and behavioral changes whose stroke occurred in the setting of atrial myxoma. Conclusions: Patients with artery of Percheron territory strokes may present with unusual clinical findings that can confound the diagnosis and potentially delay treatment. The protean clinical presentation represents a challenge to the clinician with respect to lesion localization and etiology. Disclosure: Dr. Manchak has nothing to disclose. Dr. Odrzywolski has nothing to disclose. Dr. Kelly has nothing to disclose. Dr. Benesch has nothing to disclose.
Effect of Particle Morphology on Pool Boiling From Surfaces Coated With Sintered Particles

Immersion cooling strategies often employ surface enhancements to improve the pool boiling heat transfer performance. Sintered particle/powder coatings with different constituent particle sizes and total layer thicknesses have been commonly used on smooth surfaces to reduce the wall superheat and increase the critical heat flux during pool boiling. However, the role of the particle morphology on pool boiling has not been explicitly investigated. Since the morphology of the particles affects the pore shape, permeability, surface roughness, effective conductivity and diffusivity of the sintered coating, it will impact the heat transfer coefficient and critical heat flux during boiling. In this study, pool boiling of FC-72 is experimentally investigated using copper surfaces coated with a layer of sintered copper particles of irregular, dendritic and spherical morphologies. In order to isolate the effect of particle morphology, particles with the same effective diameter (90–106 μm) are sintered under controlled conditions that yield the same porosity (∼60%) and coating thickness (∼6 particle diameters) for all samples tested. The effects of particle morphology on the incipient wall superheat, nucleate boiling heat transfer coefficient, and critical heat flux are analyzed. The morphology of the pore structure in the coating formed by sintering is observed with SEM images; bubble nucleation and departure characteristics affecting the heat transfer performance of the coatings are qualitatively assessed with the aid of high-speed flow visualizations to corroborate the trends observed in the boiling curves. The irregular particles are observed to show the highest heat transfer coefficient, followed by dendritic and then spherical particles. The critical heat flux is found to be independent of the particle morphology.Copyright © 2015 by ASME
Regulatory Networks that Direct the Development of Specialized Cell Types in the Drosophila Heart

The Drosophila cardiac tube was once thought to be a simple linear structure, however research over the past 15 years has revealed significant cellular and molecular complexity to this organ. Prior reviews have focused upon the gene regulatory networks responsible for the specification of the cardiac field and the activation of cardiac muscle structural genes. Here we focus upon highlighting the existence, function, and development of unique cell types within the dorsal vessel, and discuss their correspondence to analogous structures in the vertebrate heart.
How Common Is Parallel Intron Gain? Rapid Evolution Versus Independent Creation in Recently Created Introns in Daphnia

The evolutionary history of the spliceosomal introns that interrupt nuclear genes in eukaryotes has been debated for four decades. Positions of introns show a high degree of coincidence between various eukaryotes, implying either than many modern introns are very old and/or that intron creation is highly biased toward certain sites, leading to rampant parallel intron gain. A series of articles in this and other journals reported evidence for a strikingly high degree of parallel insertion of introns in different alleles of the water flea Daphnia pulex Here, I report several new analyses of these data. Among the 23 loci reported to be undergoing parallel intron gain, I find that in five cases introns reported to be unrelated show extended sequence similarity strongly suggesting that the introns are in fact homologous. Five additional cases show extended conserved motifs between allegedly unrelated introns. For nearly all loci including the 13 remaining loci, at least one intron shows hallmarks of rapid sequence evolution, thwarting confident inference about homology. In addition, I reanalyze gene trees reconstructed from flanking exonic sequences, claimed by the original authors as additional evidence for parallel gain. I show that these phylogenetic trees frequently fail to recover expected relationships, and in any case show relationships not consistent with parallel intron gains. In total, I conclude that the data do not support widespread parallel intron gain in D. pulex These findings strengthen the notion that shared intron positions generally reflect ancestral introns, and thus the notion of complex genes in early eukaryotes.
Trend Analysis of Incidence of Esophageal Cancer in 1999~2011 in Taixing City,Jiangsu Province

[Purpose] To investigate the incidence of esophageal cancer in Taixing city from 1999 to 2011,and to provide the basis for cancer prevention and control. [Methods] The data of new esophageal cancer cases registered in Tumor Registry of Taixing Center for Disease Control and Prevention from 1999 to 2011 were collected,the crude incidence,age-standardized incidence and proportions were analyzed.[Results] The total newly diagnosed esophageal cancer cases from 1999 to 2011 were 9635 with a proportion of 24.51%. The crude incidence of esophageal cancer was 51.03/105(male 71.97/105,female 42.95/105). The esophageal cancer incidence increased to 60.37/105 in 2011 from 52.51/105in 1999. The age-specific incidence increased with age increased,and the incidence of 60~ years old group reached the highest level with an incidence of 110.42/105.[Conclusion] The incidence of esophageal cancer shows an upward tendency. The population with 40 to 60 years old is the high risk for esophageal cancer.