cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
VENTRICULAR FUNCTIONAL RESERVE IN THE GROWTH ACCELERATED CHICK HEART: STAGES 21 TO 29

We assessed the functional capacity of the chronically afterloaded chick embryo heart. At stage 21, a 10-0 nylon loop was tied around the mid conotruncus narrowing the outflow tract. Control embryos had all procedures except the placement of the band. Embryos were returned to the incubator, and harvested at stage 24, 27, or 29 for hemodynamic and morphologic measurements. We used a servo-null pressure system to measure ventricular peak systolic pressure (PSP), end diastolic pressure (EDP) and dP/dt at base line and during brief conotruncal occlusion. We also measured embryo (edw) and ventricular (vdw) dry weight. We generated indexes of ventricular function: PSP, dP/dt, dP/dt/PSP, and dP/dt/PSP/mg dvw. N-9 for each group. The data (X+SEM) were analysed by t-test. Banding increased ventricular but not embryo weight. For experimental v control prior to occlusion, PSP and dP/dt were higher; eg. stage 29, 4.5±0.2 v 3.4±0.1 mmHg, 94±8 v 66±7 mmHg/s (p 0.05). During conotruncal occlusion PSP, EDP, dP/dt increased in both groups. At stage 29, occluded dP/dt/PSP, 19±1 v 19±2 mmHg/s/mmHg were similar but occluded dP/dt/PSP/mg dvw was less in the afterload group: 74±13 v 138±28 mmHg/s/mmHg/mg (X±95%CI). Thus, as ventricular mass increased to meet functional demands, this index of ventricular functional reserve decreased.
The development of geomagnetic storms after a negative sudden impulse.

Abstract It is shown that the solar plasma flow by itself may be a necessary condition for the development of geomagnetic storms, but not a sufficient condition. Additional factors are needed for the ring current and auroral activity. Examples are given to show that appreciable geomagnetic storms sometimes do not develop until after an abrupt reduction of the plasma pressure to the level prevailing before the SSC-value. Results obtained by Mariner II are also discussed.
An Examination of Elicitation Method on Fundamental Frequency and Repeatability of Average Airflow Measures in Children Age 4:0–5:11 Years

Summary Objective The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of task type on fundamental frequency ( F 0 ) and the short-term repeatability of average airflow values in preschool/kindergarten-age children. Study Design Prospective, experimental. Methods Thirty healthy children (age 4.0–5.11 years) were included in this study. Participants completed three tasks (sustained vowel, counting, and storytelling) used to elicit measurements of F 0 . With a 10-minute interval, participants also completed two trials of sustained /a/ at a comfortable pitch and loudness level for the measurement of average airflow rate. F 0 and intensity of the vowel production were recorded for both trials. Results A repeated measures analysis of variance revealed a significant main effect for task type elicitation on F 0 values ( P =0.0003). A significant difference between elicitation tasks for F 0 was observed in the comparison of the counting and storytelling task ( P t test revealed no significant difference in average airflow rate across two trials ( P =0.872). The change in F 0 and intensity was measured across the trials, and separate analyses of covariance revealed that these changes did not significantly influence average airflow values, ( P =0.809) and ( P =0.365), respectively. Conclusions The results of this study demonstrated that F 0 may be influenced by task type in young children. Average airflow values appear to be stable over a short time period. This information is important in determining methods of evaluation and the reliability of instrumental measures in young children with voice disorders.
Biological Populations with Nonoverlapping Generations: Stable Points, Stable Cycles, and Chaos

Some of the simplest nonlinear difference equations describing the growth of biological populations with nonoverlapping generations can exhibit a remarkable spectrum of dynamical behavior, from stable equilibrium points, to stable cyclic oscillations between 2 population points, to stable cycles with 4, 8, 16, . . . points, through to a chaotic regime in which (depending on the initial population value) cycles of any period, or even totally aperiodic but boundedpopulation fluctuations, can occur. This rich dynamical structure is overlooked in conventional linearized analyses; its existence in such fully deterministic nonlinear difference equations is a fact of considerable mathematical and ecological interest.
Carbohydrate Analysis of Bacterial Polysaccharides by High-pH Anion-Exchange Chromatography and Online Polarimetric Determination of Absolute Configuration

A significant problem in structure determination of complex carbohydrates, especially for bacterial polysaccharides, is determination of the absolute configuration of the component monosaccharides. A number of analytical methods have been used for this purpose but, as a result of the wide variety of chemical properties of sugars found in complex polysaccharides, no single method is universally applicable. High-resolution gas chromatography of volatile derivatives with chiral reagents is the most widely used method. Optical activity, although direct and simple, lacks sensitivity generally requiring a large quantity of pure monosaccharide. We report a combination of high-performance anion-exchange chromatography (HPAEC) with combined electrochemical pulsed amperometric detection and in-line detection of optical rotation with an in-line laser polarimeter for analysis of a number of sugars found in complex polysaccharides. We show that application of the method for analysis of capsular polysaccharides of several gram-positive and gram-negative pathogenic bacteria provides useful information simultaneously on carbohydrate composition and the enantiomeric configuration of component sugars.
Overlay measurement and analysis of x-ray/optical lithography for mix-and-match device applications

A joint Motorola/IBM experiment was performed in mix-and-match lithography across widely separated locations. A simple pattern placement metrology data set was created, and x-ray masks were manufactured according to this data. The same data was converted into a 5x reticle and optically stepped on wafers. The x-ray mask was designed to print upon two optical fields with one x-ray exposure. The x-ray mask was aligned to the wafers to produce box-in- box images for overlay metrology. The main overlay problems encountered were systematic offsets between x-ray and optical images, and average magnification error of approximately 8 ppm. The magnification error is substantial because of the 3 degree(s)C temperature difference between the optical stepper stage and the x-ray mask-writer. In an actual device run, the magnification differences will be removed by compensation in the e-beam writing of the x-ray mask. Offsets will be removed by use of a send-ahead wafer to determine the correct offset alignment in the x-ray stepper.
Sounding boards: Two views of "the doctors' dilemma". Manpower policy: base it on facts, not opinions.

It is widely perceived that physicians are maldistributed both geographically and by specialty. Problems in access to and the costs of medical care are thought to result from this maldistribution. In accord with these perceptions, means are being sought to induce the training of fewer subspecialists and more physicians who would engage exclusively in primary care. There is still debate about whether the needs for primary care would be better served by family physicians, by general internists and general pediatricians or, indeed, by non-physician primary-health-care professionals. There is also considerable room for discussion over how this redirection of training can . . .
Selective Sexual Harassment: Differential Treatment of Similar Groups of Women Workers

If male workers categorize different groups of women coworkers and, subsequently, treat them differently, the experiences of women from one of these groups would not be indicative of the experiences of women from another group. When this different treatment involves hostile environment sexual harassment of one group, but not the other, then the law must recognize the possibility of “selective sexual harassment.” Without this understanding of the nuances of the workplace dynamics, a court could mistake the women of the unharassed group as representing “reasonable women” and the women of the harassed group as simply oversensitive. This paper draws on empirical data to demonstrate such a situation and advocates for a version of the “reasonable victim” standard to facilitate a closer analysis of hostile environment sexual harassment suits.
Amyloid Beta-Related Angiitis—A Case Report and Comprehensive Review of Literature of 94 Cases

Abstract Background Amyloid Beta-Related Angiitis (ABRA) is a rare cause of central nervous system vasculitis complicating cerebral amyloid angiopathy. Data regarding its prevalence, clinical features, management, and outcomes are scant. Objectives To describe a patient with ABRA and discuss clinical features and management of ABRA. Methods A case report and review of literature were conducted of all reported cases of ABRA in the English literature. Results The exact etiology of ABRA is not clear, though it is thought to be secondary to an inflammatory response to beta amyloid (Aβ) in the walls of blood vessels. Role of ApoE e4/e4 genotype and its association with autoimmune diseases have been reported. ABRA shares many clinical features with primary CNS vasculitis. Patients with ABRA are relatively younger than those with non-inflammatory cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA), but older than patients with primary central nervous system vasculitis (PCNSV). Acute-onset cognitive behavioral abnormalities, focal neurological deficits, seizures, or unusual headaches are the most common presentations of ABRA. Majority have elevated CSF proteins. Up to 70% of patients have ApoE e4/e4 genotype. MRI is the most important diagnostic tool and is almost always abnormal. Characteristically, MRI shows hyperintensities on T2-weighted (T2W) or fluid-attenuation inversion recovery (FLAIR) images with minimal gadolinium enhancement. On susceptibility-weighted images (SWI), a majority of the patients have the presence of microbleeds at cortico-subcortical junction. It may be possible to diagnose typical patients based on clinical features and MRI findings alone, obviating the need for brain biopsy. Brain biopsy is the gold standard and shows transmural granulomatous vasculitis superimposed on CAA. ABRA responds well to steroids in majority. Patients usually need additional immunosuppressants, especially to prevent relapse. MRI abnormalities resolve with treatment and recur with the relapse. Conclusions ABRA is a rare but treatable cause of progressive dementia and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of rapid-onset CNS dysfunction in patients older than 60 years. It has characteristic MRI findings and responds well to steroids and other immunosuppressant therapy.
Environmentally Responsive Molecular Baskets: Unimolecular Mimics of Both Micelles and Reversed Micelles

When four facially amphiphilic cholate derivatives are attached to a tetraaminocalixarene scaffold, the resulting molecule responds to environmental changes by rotation of the cholate units. In polar solvents, the molecule adopts a micellelike conformation with the hydrophilic α-faces of the cholates pointing outward. In nonpolar solvents, it turns inside out, assuming a reversed micellelike conformation with the hydrophobic β-faces pointing outward. Switching between the two conformations is driven by solvophobic interactions and is fully reversible.
A remark on matrix rigidity

Abstract The rigidity of a matrix is defined to be the number of entries in the matrix that have to be changed in order to reduce its rank below a certain value. Using a simple combinatorial lemma, we show that one must alter at least c( n 2 r ) log( n r ) entries of an (n × n)-Cauchy matrix to reduce its rank below r, for some constant c. We apply our combinatorial lemma to matrices obtained from asymptotically good algebraic geometric codes to obtain a similar result for r satisfying 2n (√q − 1) n 4 .
ROLE OF SPLENECTOMY IN HEMATOLOGIC DISORDERS

Hemophilus influenzae vaccines. Platelets are not administered to patients with ITP. An integral part of the procedure is the search for accessory spleens. The postoperative complication of overwhelming postsplenectomy sepsis must be considered; it occurs more frequently in association with specific basic diseases and can be obviated by appropriate treatment.
Space in Cardinal's Au Pays De Mes Racines and Goytisolo's Coto Vedado

In her article "Space in Cardinal's Au Pays de mes racines and Goytisolo's Coto vedado" Laura Dennis discusses the ways in which two memoirs of the late twentieth century treat exile and diverse spaces as part of a quest for a place in which to live fully and freely. Juan Goytisolo's Coto vedado and Marie Cardinal's Au Pays de mes racines constitute particularly rich treatments of space and exile and the ways in which these intersect with questions of culture, gender, and power. Dennis uses Henri Lefebvre's theories of abstract and differential space together with Gillian Rose's feminist study of geography to examine more closely each author's experience of the various spaces they inhabit. Additionally, she explores how each author takes experiences beyond the personal to highlight an array of problems and contradictions surrounding space in a much broader sense. Finally, Dennis's comparison shows how both works move beyond the problems they describe to outline a new conception of space that is defined less by restrictive limits and more by dynamic possibilities. Laura Dennis, "Space in Cardinal's Au Pays de mes racines and Goytisolo's Coto vedado" page 2 of 10 CLCWeb: Comparative Literature and Culture 11.4 (2009):
Psychosocial distress and alcohol use as factors in adolescent sexual behavior among sub-Saharan African adolescents.

The authors used the Global School-based Student Health Survey (GSHS) to examine the relationship between sexual behavior alcohol use and indicators of psychosocial distress of adolescents in six sub-Saharan African countries. The sample consisted of 22949 adolescents from Botswana Kenya Namibia Uganda Zambia and Zimbabwe who participated in 2003 or 2004 GSHS surveys. Statistical analysis was conducted to determine whether sexual behaviors increased with levels of psychosocial distress and alcohol use. Sexual behaviors (having sex or having sex with two or more people) were associated with both psychosocial distress and alcohol use. Odds ratios showed that both boys and girls reporting psychosocial distress and alcohol use were at higher risk for having sex. Results also indicated that the likelihood of sexual behaviors increased when there was an increase in the number of psychosocial indicators and frequency of alcohol consumption.
The use of virtual reality to reimagine two-dimensional representations of three-dimensional spaces

A familiar realm in the world of two-dimensional art is the craft of taking a flat canvas and creating, through color, size, and perspective, the illusion of a three-dimensional space. Using well-explored tricks of logic and sight, impossible landscapes such as those by surrealists de Chirico or Salvador Dali seem to be windows into new and incredible spaces which appear to be simultaneously feasible and utterly nonsensical. As real-time 3D imaging becomes increasingly prevalent as an artistic medium, this process takes on an additional layer of depth: no longer is two-dimensional space restricted to strategies of light, color, line and geometry to create the impression of a three-dimensional space. A digital interactive environment is a space laid out in three dimensions, allowing the user to explore impossible environments in a way that feels very real. In this project, surrealist two-dimensional art was researched and reimagined: what would stepping into a de Chirico or a Magritte look and feel like, if the depth and distance created by light and geometry were not simply single-perspective illusions, but fully formed and explorable spaces? 3D environment-building software is allowing us to step into these impossible spaces in ways that 2D representations leave us yearning for. This art project explores what we gain--and what gets left behind--when these impossible spaces become doors, rather than windows. Using sketching, Maya 3D rendering software, and the Unity Engine, surrealist art was reimagined as a fully navigable real-time digital environment. The surrealist movement and its key artists were researched for their use of color, geometry, texture, and space and how these elements contributed to their work as a whole, which often conveys feelings of unexpectedness or uneasiness. The end goal was to preserve these feelings while allowing the viewer to actively engage with the space.
Quantum size effects in the elastic scattering of light from small metal particles

Abstract A quantum mechanical calculation of the differential elastic scattering cross-section of light from a metal microparticle is presented. The scattering intensity is found to exhibit oscillations as a function of the frequency due to the discreteness of the electron energy levels. The magnitudes of the oscillations have a sensitive dependence on the size of the electron mean free path relative to the diameter of the particle.
Acoustic sensor network design for position estimation

In this article, we develop tractable mathematical models and approximate solution algorithms for a class of integer optimization problems with probabilistic and deterministic constraints, with applications to the design of distributed sensor networks that have limited connectivity. For a given deployment region size, we calculate the Pareto frontier of the sensor network utility at the desired probabilities for d-connectivity and k-coverage. As a result of our analysis, we determine (1) the number of sensors of different types to deploy from a sensor pool, which offers a cost vs. performance trade-off for each type of sensor, (2) the minimum required radio transmission ranges of the sensors to ensure connectivity, and (3) the lifetime of the sensor network. For generality, we consider randomly deployed sensor networks and formulate constrained optimization technique to obtain the localization performance. The approach is guided and validated using an unattended acoustic sensor network design. Finally, approximations of the complete statistical characterization of the acoustic sensor networks are given, which enable average network performance predictions of any combination of acoustic sensors.
Linking servicescape to customer satisfaction: exploring the role of competitive strategy

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore the relationship between firm service characteristics and customer satisfaction as moderated by firm competitive strategy. Specifically, this research utilizes Porter's depiction of generic competitive strategy to explain the strength of the relationship between a service's particular servicescape choices and customer satisfaction.Design/methodology/approach – The empirical data for this research were obtained from 1,287 customers of ten service organizations representing three industry segments. Multiple regression analysis is utilized to test three hypotheses that propose firm competitive strategy moderates the strength of the relationship between service characteristics and customer satisfaction.Findings – The results support the assertion that firm competitive strategy has an impact on the strength of the relationship between customer satisfaction and servicescape characteristics. Of note, these findings indicate that the payoff for investment in physi...
Periostomy and Growth of the Mandibular Condyle in the Rat

It has been shown that a release of periosteal tension may augment the growth of a long bone; however, similar experiments in the mandible have produced equivocal results. For further definition of the role of periosteal tension in the growth of the mandibular condyle, 80 young female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to four equal groups: (1) sham, (2) condylotomy, (3) narrow periostomy, and (4) wide periostomy. All procedures were performed unilaterally. Lateral cephalograms, transcranial condylar radiographs, and metallic implants made possible the measurement of the actual increment of condylar growth over three post-operative periods: 0 to 14 days, 14 to 28 days, and 0 to 28 days. Analysis of covariance was performed (weight gain as the covariate) and, where overall significance was found, Tukey's HSD test was used for determination of individual group differences. Conservative, circumferential periostomy of the condylar neck as well as condylotomy failed to alter the condylar growth rate, w...
Flexible aberration-free multipass amplifier and compressor for ultrashort-pulse amplification

It is shown that mode matching, aberration compensation, control of beam overlap, and feedback are critical issues in designing multipass amplifiers for ultrashort pulse amplification. We have developed a Ti:sapphire amplifier system capable of producing aberration-free millijoule-level 25-fs pulses at 1 kHz. This system has a unique five-mirror ring design, which is capable of compensating second-order aberrations, and the flexibility to mode match the input beam and the pump laser. A unique compressor, which is a part of the amplification system, was designed to eliminate feedback.
MN and FE-Rich Black Travertine Shrubs: Bacterially (And Nanobacterially) Induced Precipitates

ABSTRACT Black shrubs (i.e., arborescent forms) are present within hot-water travertine deposits from Morocco. The shrubs are commonly a few centimeters high and laterally grouped along individual laminae. Other than in mineral composition, the black shrubs closely resemble the calcite shrubs from other hot-water travertine deposits (e.g., Bagni di Tivoli, Italy, and Mammoth Hot Springs, Yellowstone National Park). They are composed of a variety of minerals that are Mn-rich and also have a significant Fe-oxide component. Similar Mn- and Fe-rich shrub-like forms have been described from desert varnish, deep-sea Mn nodules, and marine carbonates (Frutexites). SEM analyses show that bacterial bodies are densely packed within the Mn-rich black travertine shrubs whereas no bacterial bodies are evident within the enclosing aragonite and calcite laminae. The bacterial bodies range in shape and size from rods (commonly 0.8 m long by 0.1 m in diameter), to spherical forms (commonly 0.3 m in diameter) that form chains up to 1 m long, to nanobacterial spheres (150 to 200 nm in diameter) that make up densely packed chains commonly 15 m in length. It is well documented within the microbiological literature that, not only do bacteria have the ability to induce the precipitation of Mn and Fe, they can concentrate Mn in mineral precipitates from waters with very low to essentially undetectable concentrations of Mn. The black Mn-rich shrubs within the Moroccan travertines, other hot-water travertines, and related features such as desert varnish, deep-sea Mn nodules, and Frutexites are postulated to also be the result of bacterially induced precipitation.
Emergency management structure for use in the Alaska Native elderly population

Regardless of recent concerns and the horrific results of disasters on vulnerable populations in the USA, the use of standardised emergency command and control structures in Long-Term Care (LTC) settings has not become common. It is especially true in the American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) population, a unique group in that tribes are sovereign nations within the USA or a 'nation within a nation'. This paper examines (1) the LTC issues in the AN population, (2) the need to address emergency preparedness and disaster management in the AN culture and (3) culturally specific characteristics that must be addressed to allow the preparation and protection of these elders. We must never forget the respect that should be shown to other cultures in preparing for, responding to and recovering from emergencies and disasters. There has been a great deal of work in other nations to consider how both modern cultures and indigenous peoples can benefit from each other in these respects. This paper reports work in an ongoing project that will ultimately identify specific interventions to be used in the AN population as we continue efforts to address the issues of vulnerable and underserved groups in our nation.
Multiple-Access Slightly Frequency-Shifted Reference Ultra-Wideband Communications for Dense Multipath Channels

The design of ultra-wideband (UWB) communication systems has proven to be challenging. Coherent systems require a rake receiver with many taps that is difficult to train, and transmitted-reference (TR) schemes require a wideband analog delay line whose implementation has proven extremely difficult. In response to this challenge, we have recently proposed the frequency-shifted reference (FSR-UWB) system, which leads to the replacement of the delay line in the receiver of the standard TR-UWB system with a mixer, and the resulting system is easily implemented. In this paper, the FSR-UWB idea is extended to provide multiple-access, and a performance analysis is presented. This analysis and the corresponding numerical results reveal that, due to the large bandwidth expansion of the UWB system, the FSR-UWB single-user receiver can still be successfully employed in lightly loaded systems; in other words, successful multiple- access can be achieved without the need for the wideband analog delay line of TR-UWB or the despreading circuitry generally associated with conventional multiple-access spread-spectrum systems. The result is an extremely simple architecture for wideband multiple-access communications in the wireless environment.
Quaternary salts of 8-(dialkylaminoalkoxy)-caffeine.

Three 8-(dialkylaminoalkoxy)-caffeines were prepared by reacting the appropriate sodium dialkylamino alcoholate with 8-chlorocaffeine. Nine quaternary salts were prepared from the above three compounds by reacting each with methyl iodide, ethyl iodide, and benzyl chloride. The melting points and nitrogen content of each compound was determined. The quaternary compounds are to be evaluated for therapeutic activity along with quaternary compounds now being synthesized.
Traffic Tickets Public Safety Concerns or Budget Building Tools

States and municipalities across the country are struggling to match revenues with expenditures. Sometimes these governments use traffic fines and fees to help balance the budget more so at the city level than at the state level. This article explores the rationale for the issuance of traffic tickets and provides a state-level analysis on the occurrence of tickets and its relation with budget or public safety factors. Utilizing a cross-sectional multiple regression with lags, it was found that public safety concerns as evident in fatal crashes data has a significant and larger negative effect on the issuance of traffic tickets than budget concerns as measured by state credit ratings, unemployment rates, and housing prices. Language: en
Dyadic Communication Relationships in Organizations: An Attribution/Expectancy Approach

Research in organizational communication has examined the structure and content of interaction, but has paid little attention to research traditions outside the organizational sciences that explore the social-psychological interconnections between relationship development and interaction. In this paper we draw upon and extend those traditions to develop a model of how communication relationships develop within organizational dyads. The proposed model examines organization-based communication relationships through a synthesis of theoretical perspectives on communication richness, relational communication, interpersonal attribution, and social expectancy. We also call upon precepts of structuration theory to embed these microlevel processes in an organizational context.The relational outcome in the model is "interactional richness," a dyad-level construct that assesses the extent to which communication within the dyad is high in shared meaning. Model antecedents are aspects of interaction through which communicators reciprocally define their relationships, including relational message properties, message patterns that emerge over time, and relational perceptions. We propose that these communication properties and behaviors give rise to relationship attributions. We then incorporate processes of expectancy confirmation and violation to explain how specific communication encounters lead individuals to reformulate attributions regarding the status of a given relationship. Research propositions articulate how attribution/expectancy processes mediate between relational communication behavior and relationship development outcomes. We also develop propositions addressing how relational communication behavior is influenced by macrolevel factors, including hierarchy, structure, and culture.In a concluding section we discuss the model's potential contribution to research and practice, address its limitations, and offer recommendations for future research aimed at testing its embedded hypotheses.
Unstable angina pectoris: National cooperative study group to compare medical and surgical therapy

Abstract A preliminary report is presented of a prospective randomized trial conducted by eight cooperative institutions under the auspices of the National Heart and Lung Institute to compare the effectiveness of medical and surgical therapy in the management of the acute stages of unstable angina pectoris. To date 150 patients have been included in the randomized trial, 80 assigned to medical and 70 to surgical therapy; the clinical presentation, coronary arterial anatomy and left ventricular function in the two groups are similar. Some physicians have been reluctant to prescribe medical or surgical therapy by a random process, and the ethical basis of the trial has been questioned. Since there are no hard data regarding the natural history and outcome of therapy for unstable angina pectoris, randomization appears to provide a rational way of selecting therapy. Furthermore, subsets of patients at high risk may emerge during the process of randomization. The design of this randomized trial is compared with that of another reported trial. Thus far, the study has shown that it is possible to conduct a randomized trial in patients with unstable angina pectoris, and that the medical and surgical groups have been similar in relation to the variables examined. The group as a whole presented with severe angina pectoris, either as a crescendo pattern or as new onset of angina at rest, and 84 percent had recurrence of pain while in the coronary care unit and receiving vigorous medical therapy. It is anticipated that sufficient patients will have been entered into the trial within the next 12 months to determine whether medical or surgical therapy is superior in the acute stages of unstable angina pectoris.
Uncertainty-dependent activity within the ventral striatum predicts task-related changes in response strategy

Recent neuroimaging work has demonstrated that the ventral striatum (VS) encodes confidence in perceptual decisions. However, it remains unclear whether perceptual uncertainty can signal the need to adapt behavior (such as by responding more cautiously) and whether such behavioral changes are related to uncertainty-dependent activity within the VS. Changes in response strategy have previously been observed following errors and are associated with both medial frontal cortex (MFC) and VS, two components of the performance-monitoring network. If uncertainty can elicit changes in response strategy (slowing), then one might hypothesize that these changes rely on the performance-monitoring network. In the present study, we investigated the link between perceptual uncertainty and task-related behavioral adaptations (response slowing and accuracy increases), as well as how such behavioral changes relate to uncertainty-dependent activity within MFC and VS. Our participants performed a two-choice perceptual decision-making task in which perceptual uncertainty was reported on each trial while behavioral and event-related functional magnetic resonance imaging data were collected. Analysis of the behavioral data revealed that uncertain (but correct) responses led to slowing on subsequent trials, a phenomenon that was positively correlated with increased accuracy. Critically, post-uncertainty slowing was negatively correlated with the VS activity elicited by uncertain responses. In agreement with previous reports, increases in MFC activation were observed for uncertain responses, although MFC activity was not correlated with post-uncertainty slowing. These results suggest that perceptual uncertainty can serve as a signal to adapt one's response strategy and that such behavioral changes are closely tied to the VS, a key node in the performance-monitoring network.
Update on protein intake: importance of milk proteins for health status of the elderly

Loss of lean body mass that occurs with aging is the primary endpoint with which sarcopenia is defined. Furthermore, loss of muscle mass is central to the development of many adverse health issues in the elderly. Consequently, the response of lean body mass to nutritional interventions, particularly to dietary protein, has been a commonly measured endpoint. However, increased protein intake has been associated with improved markers for cardiovascular health, improved bone health, management of weight and metabolic diseases, and reduced all-cause mortality. Strength, rather than lean body mass, may be a more accurate indicator of health, especially in the elderly. The recommended dietary allowance for protein has been set at 0.8 g/kg/day. Because the average protein intake in the United States is approximately 1.2 g/kg/day, it appears that the average protein intake is above the recommended dietary allowance but below the low end of the acceptable macronutrient distribution range recommended by expert committees of the National Academy of Sciences and below the dietary intake levels suggested by the US Department of Agriculture in the Dietary Guidelines.
Efficient Ends-Out Gene Targeting In Drosophila

In this report, we describe several approaches to improve the scalability and throughput of major genetic crosses in ends-out gene targeting. We generated new sets of targeting vectors and fly stocks and introduced a novel negative selection marker that drastically reduced the frequency of false-positive targeting candidates.
Mechanism of NMDA receptor contribution to axon-to-glia signaling in the crayfish medial giant nerve fiber

Electrical stimulation of crayfish giant axons at high frequency activates group II metabotropic and NMDA glutamate receptors on adjacent glial cells via release of N-acetylaspartylglutamate and glutamate formed upon its hydrolysis. This produces a transient depolarization followed by a prolonged hyperpolarization of glial cells that involves nicotinic acetylcholine receptor activation. The hyperpolarization is nearly completely blocked by antagonists of metabotropic glutamate receptors but only slightly reduced by inhibition of NMDA receptors. We report that the NMDA-induced hyperpolarization of glial cells is reduced by decreased calcium in the solution bathing the giant nerve fiber, while removal of sodium ions or block of voltage-dependent calcium channels completely prevents the glial response to NMDA. Inhibition of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors or removal of extracellular Cl(-) converts the glial response from a hyperpolarization to a depolarization that is sensitive to NMDA receptor antagonist. We propose that NMDA receptor activation by glutamate, formed from extracellular N-acetylaspartylglutamate during nerve stimulation, contributes to glial hyperpolarization by increasing intracellular Ca(2+) via opening of voltage-sensitive Ca(2+) channels. Based on our previous work, we propose further that the added Ca(2+) supplements that produced by N-acetylaspartylglutamate and glutamate acting on group II metabotropic glutamate receptors to cause an increased release of acetylcholine and a larger hyperpolarization.
Wide baseline dynamic stereo: approximation and refinement

Stereo algorithms using a wide baseline must cope with a large search space on top of the problems due to noise. A single pair of images is not a reliable source of depth information. One solution is to integrate the information from several image pairs. By incrementally refining estimates of the depth as the camera changes position, it is possible to build a description of the scene which, in turn, can be used as feedback to improve the extraction of depth information. The authors have developed a stereo algorithm based on correlation matching that is especially suited to being integrated into a proposed feedback loop. They have begun experiments with the integration of depth information over a sequence into a single environmental map. >
Industry participation in electrical engineering education&#8212;Extra high voltage laboratory

A unique electrical engineering laboratory course is described. This laboratory is an example of how industry can cooparate with universities in engineering education. The organization and operation of the course as well as the course material is outlined and explained, including the ways in which the industry participates in the operation of the laboratory. The educational benefits derived from such a cooperation between industry and the university are briefly detailed. These benefits are extended to the student, the University, the faculty, and the participating industry. This article provides the framework on which other laboratory experiences could be conceived and developed where industry and the university cooperate in the laboratory course.
Vascular Anomalies in Pediatrics

A standardized classification system allows improvements in diagnostic accuracy. Multidisciplinary vascular anomaly centers combine medical, surgical, radiologic, and pathologic expertise. This collaborative approach tailors treatment and management of vascular anomalies for affected individuals.
A Micro Force Sensor Using Force-balancing Feedback Control System and Optic-fiber Interferometers

The operation of a micro force-balancing force sensor with nN resolution is described. The system consists of a lever supported by torsion bars, a force controller, two electrostatic force actuators and two optic-fiber interferometers. The rotation of the lever is detected by the optic-fiber interferometers, and the lever returns its neutral position by using electrostatic-force feedback control system. The design of the force sensor and the minimum measurable range of the force sensor were analyzed by calculating force constants of torsion bars. A displacement of the lever with noise of 5 nm was obtained.
Rethinking Translation in Feminist NGOs: Rights and Empowerment Across Borders

This article examines the modes of circulation of discourses and practices about women’s rights and women’s empowerment in transnational nongovernmental organizations. Using examples from Kampala, Uganda and Jaipur, India, the authors argue against the usual explanations of “translation” as a mere conduit by which global discourses of rights are vernacularized or localized, either without substantial change or with inaccurate, “traitorous” translations. This view misunderstands the citational nature of translation, which is inevitably a transforming and generative practice that changes what is taken up, making it into something new. The theoretical task of this article is to understand how and why such changes happen. The ethnographic examples illustrate several types of transformation and their implications for transnational feminisms.
The Determinants of Yield Spreads and the Market Discipline of Banks

Determinants of yield spreads vary with market conditions and available information, which has implications for debt pricing models. After the bailout of Long Term Capital Management (LTCM) in September 1998, important firm-specific default risk measures, such as leverage, are not significant factors in determining yield spread levels of bank-issued subordinated notes and debentures (SND) because these measures do not reflect the true risk of the firm. Bond markets impound a higher cost for higher risk-taking, particularly for off-balance sheet risks, based on return-on-assets, after the LTCM bailout, Yield spreads have become less sensitive to firm-specific risks, even prior to the LTCM bailout, after the issuance of trust-preferred securities (TPS) by banks because TPS are junior claims to SND and provide an additional buffer to SND from default risk. Yield spreads on SND prior to TPS issuance by banks and the LTCM bailout are sensitive to conventional firm-specific risk measures. Yield spreads on TPS at the time of offer provide market signals about on-balance sheet risks.
Facultative Scavenging and Carrion Guild Participation by Lynx rufus in the Presence of Young

Abstract The bobcat (Lynx rufus) is typically described as an obligatory predator that infrequently scavenges and displays a strong preference for fresh prey. Scavenging behavior of the species has rarely been directly observed or documented and instead has been generally inferred from stomach content analysis. We observed a female bobcat and cub scavenging domestic pig (Sus scrofa) carcasses for a total of seven consecutive days during a carrion utilization study in central Oklahoma. These observations suggest that bobcats will readily exploit fresh carrion when under the caloric demands of rearing young. Bobcats possibly play an overlooked role in the guild of carrion recyclers in suburban and semirural ecosystems subjected to human encroachment.
Dynamic Inversion Control for Non-Square Systems with Application to Aircraft Longitudinal Control

This paper presents a novel method for control of non-square dynamical systems using a model-following approach. Control methodologies such as dynamic inversion and sliding mode control require an inversion of the input influence matrix. However, if the system input influence matrix is non-square direct inversion is not possible. Pseudo inversion of the input influence matrix may be performed for control allocation. However, the pseudo inversion limits the control to states where the controller is directly applied. The pseudoinverse method does not permit the engineer to designate a particular state to control or track. When accurate tracking of the remaining states is required the pseudo inversion method is not useful. Current methods such as dynamic extension can be used to generate a square input influence matrix, essentially, creating an input influence matrix that is invertible. However, this method is tedious for large systems. In this paper, a new transformation is applied to the original dynamical system model to develop an input influence matrix that is square. Assuming the system is controllable, the proposed transformation allows for accurate tracking of selectable states. Selection of the new transformation matrix is used to develop accurate tracking of certain states compared to the remaining states. A method based on optimal control theory is used to define the transformation matrix. The new approach is first applied to control a two mass system with simulation results presented showing the advantage of the proposed new control strategy. Finally, simulation results are presented for longitudinal control of an aircraft using one control input.
Water, Land, and Law in the West: The Limits of Public Policy, 1850-1920

This volume features the best and most influential essays by Donald Pisani, one of our nation's leading environmental and western historians. Collectively, the essays highlight the central role played by land, water, and timber allocation in the American West and show how efforts to achieve justice and efficiency were compromised by the region's obsession with achieving rapid economic growth. Pisani's work underscores the importance of natural resources to the American vision of opportunity and social progress, as well as the limits of federal influence in resolving the complex tensions between national and local control, between government regulation and laissez-faire capitalism, between democratic and corporate power, and between development and conservation. His work reminds us that westerners, ever wary of any form of centralized planning, have been far more supportive of the marketplace than government direction, and he demonstrates just how difficult it is to alter natural resource policies to keep pace with changing times and values. For those already familiar with Pisani or those coming to him for the first time, this is an invaluable volume.
Abstract 2461: Gene deletion of mPGES-1 results in a significant reduction in tumor stage and burden in the BBN mouse model of bladder cancer

Proceedings: AACR 101st Annual Meeting 2010‐‐ Apr 17‐21, 2010; Washington, DC Introduction and Objective: Prostaglandins (PG) play a critical role in the development of solid tumors. Inhibition of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), the committed step in PG synthesis, has been shown to impact tumor development in the BBN mouse model of bladder cancer. However, clinical translation has been impeded by the well documented cardiovascular problems with COX-2 inhibitors. Inhibition of other synthases downstream of COX-2 in the PG cascade may prove useful for chemoprevention or chemotherapy. In the following study, we evaluated the impact of gene deletion of membrane-associated prostaglandin synthase-1 (mPGES-1), the terminal synthase in the generation of PGE2, in the BBN mouse model. Methods: Two month old male C57Bl/6 mice with global homozygous deletion for Ptges (mPGES-1 KO) and wild-type (WT) were treated with and without BBN in drinking water (n=5/grp) for 23 weeks. Bladders were harvested, weighed, fixed, step sectioned and evaluated by H&E for pathologic stage and grade and percent involvement of tissue by tumor. Urine was collected prior to sacrifice and evaluated for PGE-2 metabolites (PGEM) by ELISA. Results: All animals had high-grade cancer at the time of euthanasia. WT bladders were significantly heavier than KO bladders (mean 0.18 vs 0.04 g respectively; p=0.03). Four of 5 WT mice had pT3 and one pT2 disease. Three of 5 KO mice had pT1 and 2 had pT2 disease. % tissue involvement was significantly less in the KO animals as well (54 vs 87%, p=0.03). Pearson's correlation for bladder weight and percent tumor involvement was 0.73 (p=0.02). Pathologic stage was dependant on genotype by Wilcoxon Rank Sum Test (p=0.02). Urine metabolites were reduced 50% in the KO compared to WT animals (mean 18.9 vs 45.2 pg/ml respectively; p<0.01). Conclusions: Genetic deletion of mPGES-1 resulted in significant decreases in PGE-2 as evidenced by lower urinary PGEM and in pathologic stage and % tissue involvement by tumor. Increased bladder weights in the WT mice compared to KO mice were directly related to the increased tumor burden. These results suggest that inhibitors of mPGES-1 may prove to be an alternative to COX inhibition and possibly prove useful in the management of high-grade bladder cancer. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 2461.
Early Comparison of Inflammatory vs. Fibrostenotic Phenotype in Eosinophilic Esophagitis in a Multicenter Longitudinal Study

Early Comparison of Inflammatory vs. Fibrostenotic Phenotype in Eosinophilic Esophagitis in a Multicenter Longitudinal Study