cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cotton Flowering and Boll Retention in Different Planting Configurations and Leaf Shapes

Narrow rows have the potential to increase boll numbers and lint yield of cotton (Gossypium hinluum L.) compared with conventional row spacing. To optimize production in this system, it is important to know whether narrow-row-induced boll number increases are a result of increased seasonal flowering or increased boll retention. The objective of this study was to determine flower production (no. m -2 ), boll retention [(bolls/flowers) x 100], main stem node number, and yield as affected by row spacing and plant density. Field experiments were conducted in 1991 and 1992 on a Bosket fine sandy loam in narrow (51 or 76 cm) and wide rows (102 cm) using the normal- and okra-leaf isolines of DES 24-8 ne cotton. Plant densities were 5, 10, 15, and 20 plants m -2 in 1991 and 2, 3, 5, 10, and 15 plants m -2 in 1992. Averaged across leaf types and plant densities, 51-cm rows increased the number of flowers by 12% and yield by 4% compared with 102-cm rows in 1991. Boll retention was 40% for both row spacings. In 1992, averaged across leaf types and plant densities, 76-cm rows increased the number of flowers by 21% and yield by 6% compared with 102-cm rows. Boll retention was actually higher in 102-cm rows (42%) than 76-cm rows (36%). In general, plant density and the number of main stem nodes had little effect on flower numbers or boll retention. High plant densities tended to reduce the number of main stem nodes per plant. Averaged across row spacings, plant densities, and years, boll retention for normal-leaf was higher than for okra-leaf (50 vs. 29%). Results indicate that increased flower production rather than increased boll retention was responsible for the small narrow-row yield increase.
Neonatal septoplasty: case report and review of the literature

Abstract Treatment of nasal septal deformity in childhood has received growing acceptance in recent years. Traditionally, concern about the role of the septum in the overall growth of the midface has led otolaryngologists to take a very cautious approach to correction of septal deformities in children. However, a great deal of evidence now suggests that severe traumatic septal deviation can and should be corrected early in childhood to prevent future nasal and systemic complications. Closed manipulation of the septum in the first 1–2 days of an infant's life has been performed by many otolaryngologists with good results. The use of this technique, however, is usually limited to those subluxations of anterior cartilage which are diagnosed immediately or very shortly after birth. We present a case of severe traumatic nasal deformity presenting with obstructive asleep and awake apnea and cyanosis at the age of 8 days. The child underwent limited septoplasty using endoscopic techniques at age 14 days with resolution of both the apneic and cyanotic episodes immediately post-operatively. This unusual presentation and the literature surrounding infant nasal/septal surgery are discussed.
The circular migration of Puerto Rican women: towards a gendered explanation.

The purpose of this paper has been to outline a theoretical framework for the explanation of the circulation of Puerto Rican women that brings gender relations to the fore but frames the island-mainland pattern of mobility in the context of core-periphery capitalist relations. We have argued that gender relations in the home and workplace are vitally important for understanding womens moves to the [United States] and return trips to Puerto Rico. Specifically we posited that most Puerto Rican women move as tied-migrants or because of their obligation or desire to meet gender responsibilities. In addition we also viewed migration as an action with the potential to modify gender relations and alter future migration decision-making as women gain experience in the labour market and exposure to new social and cultural environments. (SUMMARY IN FRE AND SPA) (EXCERPT)
A Metapopulation Approach to African Lion (Panthera leo) Conservation

Due to anthropogenic pressures, African lion (Panthera leo) populations in Kenya and Tanzania are increasingly limited to fragmented populations. Lions living on isolated habitat patches exist in a matrix of less-preferred habitat. A framework of habitat patches within a less-suitable matrix describes a metapopulation. Metapopulation analysis can provide insight into the dynamics of each population patch in reference to the system as a whole, and these analyses often guide conservation planning. We present the first metapopulation analysis of African lions. We use a spatially-realistic model to investigate how sex-biased dispersal abilities of lions affect patch occupancy and also examine whether human densities surrounding the remaining lion populations affect the metapopulation as a whole. Our results indicate that male lion dispersal ability strongly contributes to population connectivity while the lesser dispersal ability of females could be a limiting factor. When populations go extinct, recolonization will not occur if distances between patches exceed female dispersal ability or if females are not able to survive moving across the matrix. This has profound implications for the overall metapopulation; the female models showed an intrinsic extinction rate from five-fold to a hundred-fold higher than the male models. Patch isolation is a consideration for even the largest lion populations. As lion populations continue to decline and with local extinctions occurring, female dispersal ability and the proximity to the nearest lion population are serious considerations for the recolonization of individual populations and for broader conservation efforts.
Are alternative pasts plausible? A reply to Thomas Flint

Thomas Flint has claimed that my argument against Molinism suffers from a ‘seemingly irreparable logical gap’. He also contests a key assumption of that argument, namely that ‘something which has had causal consequences in the past is ipso facto a hard, fixed, settled fact about the past’. In reply, I show that there is no logical gap at all in the argument. And I argue that, even though Molinists have reasons, based on Molinist principles, for rejecting the assumption in question, the assumption is indeed extremely plausible. Thus, the argument creates difficulties for Molinism that are more severe than Flint is willing to admit.
Instrumentation and Technique for Deducing Cloud Optical Depth

Abstract The feasibility of using a photodiode radiometer to infer optical depth of thin clouds from solar intensity measurements is examined. Data were collected by a photodiode radiometer which measured incident radiation at angular fields of view of 2, 5, 10, 20 and 28°. Values of normalized annular radiance and transmittance were calculated from the observations and compared to similar calculations from a Monte Carlo radiative transfer model. The Monte Carlo results were for cloud optical depths of 1 through 6 over a spectral bandpass of 0.3 to 2.8 μm. Eight case studies including high, middle and low clouds were examined. Experimental values of cloud optical depth were determined by comparing plots of transmittance versus field of view with the model calculated curves and from the average of the five optical depths calculated for each field of view. Analysis of the case study results indicates that the photodiode radiometer can be used effectively to determine the optical depth of thin clouds.
Converging operations revisited: Assessing what infants perceive using discrimination measures.

The study of visual perception in human infants is confronted by a number of special problems arising from the inaccessibility of verbal reports. In this paper, we discuss the experimental strategy of converging operations in the context of investigating the phenomenal experience of infants. The goal of this strategy is to logically and empirically delimit alternative explanations for a given behavior. Knowledge about the mature functioning of a perceptual competence, as well as knowledge about its developmental course, constrains the selection of viable explana­ tions, but cannot produce a unique interpretation. This goal is pursued through the implementa­ tion of an iterative strategy in which competing interpretations are tested until only one plausi­ ble alternative remains. A series of experiments investigating infants' sensitivity to biomechanical motions are reviewed as a way of illustrating how this methodology is operationalized. The perceptual world is formed by proximal stimula­ tion and perceptual processes that are (I) shaped over the evolutionary course of our species or (2) acquired dur­ ing the individual's developmental history. By definition, the human infant's perceptual world is primarily struc­ tured by innate perceptual processes, whereas the percep­ tual world of the adult benefits from extensive experience and knowledge about the environment. It thus follows that one of the most effective strategies for assessing basic competencies in perception is to study young infants. What can we know of babies' perceptual experience? Skeptics argue that we can never know about the phe­ nomenal experiences of infants because our assessments are restricted to nonverbal responses. By this reasoning, perceptual research with animals, as well as with human infants, yields results that will always fall short of those obtained with older children and adults who can provide verbal phenomenal reports. Contrary to this argument, the principle premise of this paper is that empirical evi­ dence pertaining to babies' phenomenal experience is, in­ deed, attainable, even though the inaccessibility of ver­ bal reports presents special problems in infant perception research.
Two types of intramolecular addition of an Al-N multiple-bonded monomer LAlNAr' arising from the reaction of LAl with N3Ar' (L = HC[(CMe)(NAr)]2, Ar' = 2,6-Ar2C6H3, Ar = 2,6-iPr2C6H3).

The reaction of β-diketiminated aluminum(I) monomer LAl with a large bulky azide N3Ar‘ (L = HC(CMeNAr)2, Ar‘ = 2,6-Ar2C6H3, Ar = 2,6-iPr2C6H3) in the temperature range from −78 °C to room temperature affords two different isomers 2 and 3, which have been characterized by spectroscopic and X-ray structural analyses, as well as elemental analysis. The variable-temperature 1H NMR kinetic studies of this reaction indicate the existence of the monomer LAlNAr‘ (1) at low temperature and the thermal stability of the compounds increases in the order of 1 < 2 < 3.
Implications of rapid uniform density changes on hepatic computed tomography

Uniform hepatic density alterations may be due to fatty infiltration or hemochromatosis. Whole liver density pattern changes may occur with rapidity where there is liver fat accumulation or mobilization. Averaged hepatic densities from concomitantly increased fat and iron accumulation can result in a false impression of liver normalcy. Two cases are presented to illustrate these points and the importance of understanding the patterns in terms of pathophysiology and response to treatment.
CO2 solubility in YBa2Cu3O7−x

Abstract The interaction of CO 2 with YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7− x (123) was studied at 1173 K. The 123 compound appears to include ≈ 0.011 mol CO 2 even when prepared in the absence of CO 2 and protected from further interaction with the environment. Increasing the concentration of CO 2 in O 2 leads to increased solution of CO 2 , with a limiting composition of YBa 2 Cu 3 O 6.38 (CO 2 ) 0.036 a t 0.0014 MPa CO 2 in 0.0986 MPa O 2 . The solid-solution CO 2 may be rejected to form CO 2 -containing BaCuO 2 (011) upon slow cooling. The carbon contents of other compounds in the Y-Ba-Cu-O system were also determined.
Structure of a novel sulfated sialoglycosphingolipid from bovine gastric mucosa.

Summary A novel sulfated sialoglycosphingolipid was isolated from the lipid extract of bovine gastric mucosa in a yield of 6.15 μM per kg of wet tissue. Based on the results of partial acid hydrolysis, sequential degradation with specific glycosidases, periodate oxidation, and methylation analysis of the native and partially degraded compound, the structure of this glycolipid is proposed to be: SO3H→8Siaα2→8Siaα2→3Galβ1→4Glc→ceramide. The sialic acid of this glycolipid consisted of N-acetyl and N-glycolylneuraminic acids, with the former being predominant component (65%) of the mixture.
Cold-related cardiac mortality in King County, Washington, USA 1980-2001.

Background: Studies have shown that cardiac deaths increase during the winter months and that death rates can be tightly predicted from temperature rather than other atmospheric phenomena such as barometric pressure, humidity, or pollution. Aim: The object of this study is to examine the possible relationship between temperature and cardiac death rates in King County, Washington, USA and suggest possible public health measures that can decrease the number of cardiac deaths associated with cold exposure. Subjects and methods: State death records show that 621 25 total out-of-hospital cardiac-related deaths among persons 55 years and older occurred in King County between 1980 and 2001. We use Poisson regression to examine the association between same-day daily average temperature and death rate after adjusting for seasonal effects. Results: We identified a significant negative association between daily average temperature and cardiac mortality among persons over 55 years of age. A 5°C increase in temperatur...
Hysteresis in swirling jets

This paper explains hysteretic transitions in swirling jets and models external flows of vortex suction devices. Toward this goal, the steady rotationally symmetric motion of a viscous incompressible fluid above an infinite conical stream surface of a half-angle 8, is studied. The flows analysed are generalizations of Long's vortex. They correspond to the conically similar solutions of the Navier-Stokes equations and are characterized by circulation r, given at the surface and axial flow force 4. Asymptotic analysis and numerical calculations show that four (for Oe d 90") or five (for 8, > 90") solutions exist in some range of r, and 4. The solution branches form hysteresis loops which are related to jump transitions between various flow regimes. Four kinds of jump are found : (i) vortex breakdown which transforms a near-axis jet into a two-cell flow with a reverse flow near the axis and an annular jet fanning out along conical surface 8 = 8, < 0,; (ii) vortex consolidation causing a reversal of (i); (iii) jump flow separation from surface 8 = 8,; and (iv) jump attachment of the swirling jet to the surface. As r, and/or J1 decrease, the hysteresis loops disappear through a cusp catastrophe. The physical reasons for the solution non-uniqueness are revealed and the results are discussed in the context of vortex breakdown theories. Vortex breakdown is viewed as a fold catastrophe. Two new striking effects are found: (i) there is a pressure peak of O(TE) inside the annular swirling jet; and (ii) a consolidated swirling jet forms with a reversed ('anti-rocket ') flow force.
INTRAGEMMAL SPACES IN TASTE BUDS.

Empty spaces are seen under both light and electron microscopes inside the taste buds of the dog lingual circumvallate papillae. They average 10 μ in diameter and 20 μ in length. Lacking endothelial lining, they are bordered directly by cell membranes of neighboring bud cells, and thus represent enlarged intercellular spaces. Intergemmal blood capillaries encircle the buds in close proximity to these intragemmal spaces. It is suggested that these spaces act as reservoirs for tissue fluid which may flow from them to the exterior via the intercellular spaces and the gustatory pores. This provides an effective mechanism whereby taste buds may be flushed of stimulating agents.
Concurrent Parent and Child Therapy Groups for Externalizing Disorders: The Rural Replication.

For the treatment of disruptive behavior disorders, parent training and child social skills training have established efficacy in research settings. But in community settings, these approaches are not often systematically implemented. In a hospital-affiliated psychology practice located in a rural community, parent and child group programs were set up to be the standard initial treatment for these disorders for children ages 5 to 12 years. Using the Eyberg Checklist for pre and post measures, 51 patients who completed treatment showed an average treatment effectiveness of 1.00 standard deviation, which is comparable to outcome data from an earlier study in which the same program had been instituted in a suburban setting ( Tynan, Schuman, & Lampert, 1999 ).
Kawasaki disease in children

Kawasaki disease is an acute systemic vasculitis of childhood. Children are predominantly affected at less than 5 years of age, and coronary artery involvement is responsible for most of the morbidity and mortality of the disease. Since the institution of intravenous immune globulin in the treatment of the disease, outcome has significantly improved. Although multiple infectious agents and toxins have been implicated in the etiology of the disease, none has been identified. Activation of the immune system is known to occur in the acute stage of the disease and plays an important role in the pathogenesis of the disease.
Cytochemical evidence for the segregation of adenylate cyclase, Ca2+-, Mg2+-ATPase, K+-dependentp-nitrophenyl phosphatase in separate membrane compartments in human platelets

The blood platelet has three morphologically distinct membrane systems. In addition to the plasma membrane the platelet has an ‘open canalicular system’ (surface-connected intracytoplasmic membrane system) and a microsome-like ‘dense tubular system’. The open canalicular and dense tubular systems have been implicated in Ca2+ transport, cyclic nucleotide (cAMP) synthesis and prostaglandin and thromboxane synthesis. Precise definition of the function of the different membrane systems requires analysis of their unique chemical activities. Broken cell preparations are used to advantage for such studies. However, clean separation and definition of the origin and composition of the membrane fractions has been difficult because well-defined marker enzymes for the various membrane systems have not been conclusively estabished. Platelets were fixed for 5 min in 1% paraformaldehyde-0.2% glutaraldehyde and assayed for K+-dependentp-nitrophenyl phosphatase, Ca2+-, Mg2+-ATPase and adenylate cyclase. K+-dependentp-nitrophenyl phosphatase was localized only at the plasma membrane wnile Ca2+-, Mg2+-ATPase and adenylate cyclase were found relatively segregated to the open canalicular and dense tubular systems. The segregation of these enzymes to separate membrane compartments may have significant implications with regard to understanding platelet function.
Vibration characteristics of unidirectional filamentary composite material panels

An experimental and analytical study of the vibration characteristics of a series of boron/epoxy composite panels with all layers having the same filament orientation has been conducted. Nodal patterns and natural frequencies are found to be highly dependent on the filament angle. Frequencies change by as much as 90 per cent with a 30-deg change in the filament angle. Measured damping coefficients are only moderately higher than those of comparative aluminum panels. There is no strong correlation between the filament angle and the amount of damping. In general, calculations based on a finite element mathematical model are in good agreement with the experimental data.
The utility of TIPS in the management of Budd-Chiari syndrome.

Hepatic venous outflow obstruction, also known as Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS), is a rare condition that causes hepatic congestion, portal hypertension, hepatocyte necrosis, and eventual liver failure. In the form most commonly encountered in the United States, BCS is caused by thrombotic occlusion of the hepatic veins or inferior vena cava (IVC), and can usually be attributed to several thrombogenic disorders, most commonly myeloproliferative diseases.1,2 Clinical manifestations include abdominal pain, liver dysfunction, and intractable ascites. Ascites is the most common clinical feature of BCS and is also the most frequent reason for referral for nonmedical therapy.3–5 Surgical options are primarily limited to mesenteric-systemic shunts and liver transplantation.6–9 The therapeutic decision should be based on liver histology, pressure gradients, and clinical factors. Furthermore, premalignant conditions, such as paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH),10,11 are relative contraindications for liver transplantation. Both treatment modalities were recently reviewed in our institution with good resolution of symptoms and 5-year survival rates in excess of 75%.12 The use of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts (TIPS) in the treatment of cirrhosis and portal hypertension has been reviewed in many series.13,14 Standard indications include acute variceal bleeding and ascites refractory to paracentesis. An important factor limiting the success of TIPS is shunt stenosis.14 This necessitates continued surveillance for patency and often multiple interventions for continued shunt function.15 The utility of TIPS in the treatment of BCS has been reviewed in several small series and case reports with promising results.16–21 Similar problems associated with repeated shunt occlusion seem to occur in patients with BCS. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the etiology, clinical aspects, and outcome of BCS patients treated with TIPS in our institution, with the ultimate goal of better elucidating the role of this nonsurgical procedure in the treatment of BCS.
Recent Developments in the Analytical Chemistry of Rhenium and Technetium

VI. SUMMARY It is possible to bright-plate both Re and Tc metals from aqueous media in a reasonably quantitative fashion, but the deposit is not favorable for weighing. The (VII)-states in 4 M perchloric acid undergo initial 4- or 3-electron reduction-steps in polarography at the d.m.e. These waves are suitable for analyses of 10−3 — 10−4 M solutions within ± 1% if necessary precautions are taken. The four-electron coulometric reduction of pertechnetate can probably be refined to better than ± 0.5%. Several usable amperometric techniques exist for the determination of rhenium. The direct chemical reduction of some technetium (VII) in aqueous acidic media by contact with mercury is an important consideration in many electrochemical techniques. The available techniques for the determination of rhenium and technetium by redox potentiometry are not very selective. Precipitation of the tetraphenylarsonium MO4 − salts remains the only good gravimetric determination which has been described for these elements; u...
Simulation fidelity and contextual interference in helicopter underwater egress training: An analysis of training and retention of egress skills

In an effort to explore influencing factors related to survival, the following paper outlines an argument to incorporate more realistic simulator fidelity, contextual interference (CI), and skill acquisition during helicopter underwater egress training for the offshore oil and gas industry. Previous skill acquisition research is used to frame specific forms of training while highlighting the differences in current methodological approaches that may influence survival following a ditching. By examining distinct domains, a discussion of fidelity (physical and cognitive) and CI (i.e., making the training more memorable by increasing the difficulty and variability of tasks in a random order) is grounded in performance outcomes from real-world helicopter ditchings reports from 2000 to 2011. Based on the ditching event evidence gained from 97 accident reports, recommendations are made for increasing the level of fidelity and CI during this specialized emergency response training program. The accident reports are also used to develop a list of tasks that should be completed in three distinct phases of an event and should be considered in the preparation of offshore workers for a real-world ditching.
TDP-43 pathology in a case of hereditary spastic paraplegia with a NIPA1/SPG6 mutation

Mutations in NIPA1 (non-imprinted in Prader–Willi/Angelman syndrome) have been described as a cause of autosomal dominant hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP) known as SPG6 (spastic paraplegia-6). We present the first neuropathological description of a patient with a NIPA1 mutation, and clinical phenotype of complicated HSP with motor neuron disease-like syndrome and cognitive decline. Postmortem examination revealed degeneration of lateral corticospinal tracts and dorsal columns with motor neuron loss. TDP-43 immunostaining showed widespread spinal cord and cerebral skein-like and round neuronal cytoplasmic inclusions. We ruled out NIPA1 mutations in 419 additional cases of motor neuron disease. These findings suggest that hereditary spastic paraplegia due to NIPA1 mutations could represent a TDP-43 proteinopathy.
Opposing action of conantokin-G on synaptically and extrasynaptically-activated NMDA receptors.

Abstract Synaptic and extrasynaptic activation of the N-methyl- d -aspartate receptor (NMDAR) has distinct consequences on cell signaling and neuronal survival. Since conantokin (con)-G antagonism is NR2B-selective, which is the key subunit involved in extrasynaptic activation of the receptor, its ability to specifically elicit distinct signaling outcomes in neurons with synaptically or extrasynaptically-activated NMDARs was evaluated. Inhibition of Ca 2+ influx through extrasynaptic NMDAR ion channels was neuroprotective, as it effectively enhanced levels of activated extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), activated cAMP response element binding protein (CREB), enhanced mitochondrial viability, and attenuated the actin disorganization observed by extrasynaptic activation of NMDARs. Conversely, the pro-signaling pathways stimulated by synaptically-induced Ca 2+ influx were abolished by con-G. Furthermore, subunit non-selective con-T was unable to successfully redress the impairments in neurons caused by extrasynaptically-activated NMDARs, thus indicating that NR2B-specific antagonists are beneficial for neuron survival. Neurons ablated for the NR2B subunit showed weak synaptic Ca 2+ influx, reduced sensitivity to MK-801 blockage, and diminished extrasynaptic current compared to WT and NR2A −/− neurons. This indicates that the NR2B subunit is an integral component of both synaptic and extrasynaptic NMDAR channels. Altogether, these data suggest that con-G specifically targets the NR2B subunit in the synaptic and extrasynaptic locations, resulting in the opposing action of con-G on differentially activated pools of NMDARs.
Transscleral photodisruption for the treatment of glaucoma

To evaluate transscleral glaucoma surgery techniques using ultrashort pulsed lasers, we attempted to produce photodisruption on the inner surface of the sclera without damaging the overlying tissue. We identified two methods, using pulses centered at 1700 nm and a transparency inducing drug, to produce the spatial and temporal confinement of the pulse necessary to produce photodisruption in the highly scattering sclera. When fully developed these concepts may help address the longstanding limitations of current glaucoma surgical techniques.
Aykut A. Barka (1952–2002)

Aykut Barka, a scientist respected throughout the world for the quality and depth of his research, died on 1 February 2002 from injuries suffered in a car accident five weeks earlier. Barka embodied the highest calling of science in service to the public. He was known for his unstinting integrity; his humor, openness, and selflessness; his plain talk to the Turkish public; and his tireless efforts to convince the Turkish government to confront the potential for an earthquake disaster in one of the most vulnerable countries in the world. Barka had been an AGU member (Seismology) since 1990.
Biaxial total wrist arthropla

Abstract Arthrodesis is a reliable and predictable method of treating patients with symptomatic radiocarpal joint destructionand should be recommended in most cases. However, some patients are not able to compensate for the lack of wrist mobility associated with wrist fusion because of multiple joint arthroses as are commonly seen in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. For these patients, total wrist arthroplasty is best described as a higher risk and higher reward procedure. A recent review of 64 cases of total wrist arthroplasty found an 83% implant survival rate at a mean follow-up period of 6.5 years. Clinical results showed excellent patient satisfaction and very good pain relief and range of motion. Of the patients who failed arthroplasty and were eligible for revision total wrist arthroplasty, 80% elected revision arthroplasty over recommended arthrodesis. This report reviews patient selection, technique, postoperative management, management of complications, and expected outcome of biaxial total wrist arthroplasty.
Increased Platelet Activation in the Chronic Phase After Cerebral Ischemia and Intracerebral Hemorrhage

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Enhanced thromboxane (TX) biosynthesis has previously been reported in the acute phase after ischemic stroke. We investigated whether enhanced urinary excretion of 11-dehydro-TXB2, a noninvasive index of platelet activation, was present in the chronic phase after a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke, including intracerebral hemorrhage. METHODS: We obtained a single urinary sample from 92 patients between 3 and 9 months after onset of stroke or TIA. The urinary excretion of the major enzymatic metabolite of TXA2, 11-dehydro-TXB2, was measured by a previously validated radioimmunoassay. The excretion rates were compared with those of 20 control patients with nonvascular neurological diseases. RESULTS: Urinary 11-dehydro-TXB2 averaged 294+/-139, 413+/-419, and 557+/-432 pmol/mmol creatinine for patients with TIA, ischemic stroke, and intracerebral hemorrhage, respectively; the values were higher in all subgroups (P<0.01) than that in control patients (119+/-66 pmol/mmol). Increased 11-dehydro-TXB2 excretion was present in 59% of all patients, in 60% (P<0.001) of patients with TIA, in 56% (P<0.001) of patients with ischemic stroke, and in 73% (P<0.001) of patients with intracerebral hemorrhage. Atrial fibrillation, no aspirin use, and severity of symptoms at follow-up contributed independently to the level of 11-dehydro-TXB2 excretion in a multiple linear regression analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Platelet activation is often present in patients in the chronic phase after stroke, including those with intracerebral hemorrhage. Persistent platelet activation, which is associated with atrial fibrillation and poor stroke outcome, can be substantially suppressed by aspirin treatment.
Dissociation and pain perception: An experimental investigation†

Dissociative symptoms and abnormalities in pain perception have been associated with a range of disorders. The authors tested whether experimentally induced increases in state dissociation would cause an analgesic response. Participants (N = 120) were randomized to a dissociation induction condition via audiophotic stimulation or a credible control condition and were compared on pre- and postchanges in subjective pain and immersion time in response to a standard cold pressor test. Unexpectedly, the dissociation induction led to small, but significant increases in subjective pain and did not lead to greater immersion time. An exploratory analysis revealed that increases in absorption and derealization significantly predicted increased subjective pain and increased immersion time, respectively.
AN APPROACH TO PARALLEL COMPUTING IN AN EULERIAN-LAGRANGIAN TWO-PHASE FLOW MODEL

An approach to parallel solution of an Eulerian-Lagrangian model of dilute gas-solid flows is presented. Using Lagrangian treatments for the dispersed phase, one of the principal computational challenges arises in models in which inter-particle interactions are taken into account. Deterministic treatment of particle-particle collisions in the present work pose the most computationally intensive aspect of the simulation. Simple searches lead to algorithms whose cost is O(N2 p ) where Np is the particle population. The approach developed in the current effort is based on localizing collision detection neighborhoods using a cell-index method and spatially distributing those neighborhoods for parallel solution. The method is evaluated using simulations of the gas-solid turbulent flow in a vertical channel. The instantaneous position and the velocity of any particle is obtained by solving the equation of motion for a small rigid sphere assuming that the resulting force induced by the fluid reduces to the drag contribution. Binary particle collisions without energy dissipation or inter-particle friction are considered. The carrier flow is computed using Large Eddy Simulation of the incompressible Navier-Stokes equations. The entire dispersed-phase population is partitioned via static spatial decomposition of the domain to maximize parallel efficiency. Simulations on small numbers of distributed memory processors show linear speedup in processing of the collision detection step and nearly optimal reductions in simulation time for the entire solution.Copyright © 2002 by ASME
Cumulative Reputation Systems for Peer-to-Peer Content Distribution

Reputation systems can be used to provide incentives for cooperation among participants of peer-to-peer networks. In this paper, a survey of such systems is first provided. We then focus on content distribution networks that have honest but rationally selfish users. A reputation framework is proposed that, for special cases, can be proved to converge in mean to "reveal" the true propensity of peer nodes to cooperate. Based on this framework a game is designed in which users play to maximize the files received from the system by adjusting their cooperation level and gaining a better reputation as a result.
A 7 to 11 GHz AlInAs/GaInAs/InP MMIC low noise amplifier

Two-stage monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC) low-noise amplifiers (LNAs) have been fabricated using 0.15- mu m gate-length InP-based AlInAs/GaInAs high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs). The LNAs showed less than 1.2-dB noise figure and 21-22-dB gain over the 7-11-GHz band. These results are believed to be the best reported to date for a broadband MMIC amplifier at these frequencies. The authors describe the fabrication technology, the design procedure, and the experimental results. >
A neuropsychological test of belief and doubt: damage to ventromedial prefrontal cortex increases credulity for misleading advertising.

We have proposed the False Tagging Theory as a neurobiological model of belief and doubt processes. The theory posits that the prefrontal cortex is critical for normative doubt toward properly comprehended ideas or cognitions. Such doubt is important for advantageous decisions, for example in the financial and consumer purchasing realms. Here, using a neuropsychological approach, we put the False Tagging Theory to an empirical test, hypothesizing that focal damage to the ventromedial prefrontal cortex would cause a “doubt deficit” that would result in higher credulity and purchase intention for consumer products featured in misleading advertisements. We presented 8 consumer ads to 18 patients with focal brain damage to the ventromedial prefrontal cortex, 21 patients with focal brain damage outside the prefrontal cortex, and 10 demographically similar healthy comparison participants. Patients with ventromedial prefrontal cortex damage were (1) more credulous to misleading ads; and (2) showed the highest intention to purchase the products in the misleading advertisements, relative to patients with brain damage outside the prefrontal cortex and healthy comparison participants. The pattern of findings was obtained even for ads in which the misleading bent was “corrected” by a disclaimer. The evidence is consistent with our proposal that damage to the ventromedial prefrontal cortex disrupts a “false tagging mechanism” which normally produces doubt and skepticism for cognitive representations. We suggest that the disruption increases credulity for misleading information, even when the misleading information is corrected for by a disclaimer. This mechanism could help explain poor financial decision-making when persons with ventromedial prefrontal dysfunction (e.g., caused by neurological injury or aging) are exposed to persuasive information.
Zero-mode waveguides for single molecule analysis and fast DNA sequencing

Summary form only given. Zero-mode waveguides enable the observation of which fluorescent nucleotide analog is being added to the double stranded product in the active site of the enzyme while excluding signal from freely diffusing fluorescent species. The effectiveness of zero-mode waveguides is demonstrated by real-time observation of single molecules of DNA polymerase immobilized inside zero-mode waveguides, using micromolar concentrations of fluorescently labeled nucleotide analogs.
Utility and morphologic features of granulomas on rapid on-site evaluation of endobronchial ultrasonography-guided fine-needle aspiration

Introduction Endobronchial ultrasonography (EBUS)-guided fine-needle aspiration (FNA) is increasingly used to sample central lung lesions and mediastinal lymphadenopathy. We investigate the utility of EBUS-guided FNA and concomitant rapid on-site evaluation (ROSE) to diagnose granulomas, the morphologic characteristics of granulomas on ROSE, and how the diagnosis of granulomas changed the clinical impression. Materials and methods All pathologic reports and associated clinical records of patients who had EBUS-guided FNA of the lungs or mediastinal lymph nodes that yielded granulomas were reviewed with at least a 1-year follow-up after EBUS-guided FNA. All ROSE slides were rereviewed to evaluate granulomas for quantity, necrosis, and cohesion. Results Over a 3-year period, 882 EBUS-guided FNAs were performed. One hundred and twelve patients (49% male, average age 50.8 years, range 16-83) had 161 EBUS-guided FNAs that yielded granulomas (18%). The etiologies of the granulomas were as follows: sarcoidosis (54%), infection (12%), malignancy (5%), inflammatory bowel disease–related lymphadenopathy (1%), and no specific clinical etiology (28%). Of the patients with EBUS-guided FNAs, 98 had ROSE performed (87.5%) and granulomas were seen in 70 of these patients (71%). Granulomas associated with sarcoidosis were mostly well-formed and non-necrotizing (90%). The results of the EBUS-guided FNA changed or redefined the clinical diagnosis in 79 patients (71%). Conclusions EBUS-guided FNA with concurrent ROSE is a useful technique for the diagnosis of granulomas. The quality and quantity of granulomas detected during ROSE may suggest an etiology and help direct ancillary testing.
Ultrasounds during morphine withdrawal in rats.

Ultrasounds (US) in rats may communicate affective states, as they occur only in highly significant situations such as maternal care, sex and aggression. Withdrawal from morphine is a manipulation which dramatically alters autonomic, somatic and motor functions; the present experiment demonstrated the production of US in this context and the influence of previous social experience in their production. Sixty male Long-Evans rats with distinct social experiences (social inexperience, defeat or copulation) underwent 72 h of continuous morphine exposure (4 × 75 mg morphine or placebo pellets) and subsequent withdrawal. The rats were observed for 10 min in equally treated pairs and while solitary at 6, 24 and 96 h after pellet removal. US were emitted by all groups and consisted primarily of two distributions of pure tone whistles with little frequency modulation: 1–2 s 21–25 kHz (“low”) signals and the more prevalent 0.02–0.1 s 44–52 kHz (“high”) signals. Morphine withdrawn rats lost weight, displayed wet dog shakes, were hypoactive and emitted threefold more US vocalizations with a fourfold greater duration than placebo controls. Defeat-experienced morphine withdrawn rats were more hypoactive than either socially inexperienced or copulatory experienced rats while increasing vocalization rates and total duration. This increased duration of ultrasounds included a shift in the distribution of individual US durations from less than 0.3 s to greater than 1.0 s. US are readily emitted at high rates in morphine withdrawn laboratory rats, which may implicate an opioid involvement in their generation. Furthermore, relevant social experiences such as copulation and defeat facilitate the emission of US during morphine withdrawal and may serve as an index of the affective components of withdrawal.
Morphometric analysis of the composition of coronary arterial plaques in isolated unstable angina pectoris with pain at rest

Abstract Coronary artery plaque morphology was studied in 354 five-mm segments of the 4 major (left main, left anterior descending, left circumflex and right) epicardial coronary arteries in 10 patients with isolated unstable angina pectoris with pain at rest. The 4 major coronary arteries were sectioned at 5mm intervals and a drawing of each of the resulting 354 Movat-stained histologic sections was analyzed using a computerized morphometry system. The major component of plaque was a combination of dense acellular and cellular fibrous tissue with much smaller portions of plaque being composed of pultaceous debris, calcium, foam cells with and without inflammatory infiltrates and inflammatory infiltrates without foam cells. There were no differences in plaque composition among any of the 4 major epicardial coronary arteries. Plaque composition varied as a function of the degree of luminal narrowing. Linear increases were observed in the mean percent of dense fibrous tissue (from 5 to 50%), calcific deposits (from 1 to 10%), pultaceous debris (from 0 to 10%) and inflammatory infiltrates without significant numbers of foam cells (from 0 to 5%), and a linear decrease was observed in the mean percent of cellular fibrous tissue (from 94 to 22%) in sections narrowed up to 25% to more than 95% in cross-sectional area. Multiluminal channels were seen in all 10 patients (28 [19%] of the 146 sections narrowed >75% in cross-sectional area and in 36 [10%] of all 354 segments); occlusive thrombi in no patient; nonocclusive thrombi in 2 patients (1 section each of 2 arteries); plaque rupture in 2 patients (4 segments from 2 arteries); and plaque hemorrhages in 6 patients (11 sections from 10 arteries).
Emotion Congruence in Perception

Previous tests of emotion congruence in perception have failed to find that stimulus events in the visual field that match an individual's emotional state are perceived more efficiently than other stimuli. The present research examined unidimensional (valence) congruence and multidimensional (categorical) emotion congruence in perception. The former hypothesis, which has guided most past work on this problem, holds that stimuli that match the valence of the perceiver's emotional state will be perceived more efficiently than other stimuli. The latter hypothesis states that stimuli that match the perceiver's emotional state in a more specific way will be perceived more efficiently than other stimuli. In two experiments, subjects were induced to feel happy or sad and then performed a lexical decision task. In both experiments, emotions facilitated lexical decision about words specifically related to subjects' emotional states. Effects of emotion on perception of valence-congruent stimuli were not observed.
Health effects of intermittent fasting: hormesis or harm? A systematic review

Background: Intermittent fasting, alternate-day fasting, and other forms of periodic caloric desistance are gaining popularity in the lay press and among animal research scientists. Whether clinical evidence exists for or is strong enough to support the use of such dietary regimens as health interventions is unclear. Objective: This review sought to identify rigorous, clinically relevant research studies that provide high-quality evidence that therapeutic fasting regimens are clinically beneficial to humans. Design: A systematic review of the published literature through January 2015 was performed by using sensitive search strategies to identify randomized controlled clinical trials that evaluated the effects of fasting on either clinically relevant surrogate outcomes (e.g., weight, cholesterol) or actual clinical event endpoints [e.g., diabetes, coronary artery disease (CAD)] and any other studies that evaluated the effects of fasting on clinical event outcomes. Results: Three randomized controlled clinical trials of fasting in humans were identified, and the results were published in 5 articles, all of which evaluated the effects of fasting on surrogate outcomes. Improvements in weight and other risk-related outcomes were found in the 3 trials. Two observational clinical outcomes studies in humans were found in which fasting was associated with a lower prevalence of CAD or diabetes diagnosis. No randomized controlled trials of fasting for clinical outcomes were identified. Conclusions: Clinical research studies of fasting with robust designs and high levels of clinical evidence are sparse in the literature. Whereas the few randomized controlled trials and observational clinical outcomes studies support the existence of a health benefit from fasting, substantial further research in humans is needed before the use of fasting as a health intervention can be recommended. Am J Clin Nutr 2015;102:464‐70.
Use of emergency department imaging in patients with minor trauma.

Background Advanced radiographic studies have detrimental risks, yet the prevalence of CT utilization in patients with minor trauma presenting to the emergency department (ED) has never been fully evaluated. Our objective was to evaluate the frequency of CT imaging in patients presenting to the ED for minor trauma. Materials and methods A retrospective analysis of the California Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development Emergency Department and Ambulatory Surgery Data from 2005 to 2013 was performed. A total of 8,535,831 patients were identified using the following inclusion criteria: adult patients (age ≥18 y); with a traumatic ECODE diagnosis and injury severity score <9; and discharge to home. The primary study outcome measurement was the prevalence of CT imaging for each year in the study period. We performed univariate and multivariate analysis to evaluate clinical and hospital-level factors related to CT use in this population. We also performed a trend analysis using Poisson logistic regression to assess the trend of imaging scans over the study period. Results Of the study population, 5.9% received at least one CT study during their ED visit. The proportion of patients with at least one CT scan increased from 3.51% in 2005 to 7.17% in 2013 (P 45 y (P < 0.005), Medicare and self-pay patients (P < 0.005), fall injuries (P < 0.005), motor vehicle collision injuries (P < 0.005), and patients seen at level I/II trauma centers (P = 0.005). Conclusions Even after clinical and demographic predictors were adjusted for, there was a 1.97-fold increase in CT among minor trauma patients from 2005-2013.
Nominalism, the nonexistence of mathematical objects

Nominalism is the view that, despite appearances, there are no mathematical entities. The ways that nominalism is both compatible with there being mathematical truths and falsehoods, and compatible with mathematical truths being valuable in scientific applications are explored in this paper. Some of the purely psychological reasons for why nominalism is so hard to believe in will also be discussed.