cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Change and Involution in Sugar Production in Cultivation-System Java, 1840–1870

Production functions for sugar in four major sugar-producing zones in Cultivation- System Java (1840 through 1870) are estimated using colonial data. The estimates are analyzed for evidence of structural change in the years from 1848 to 1851. The results confirm that the colonial reforms of those years were accompanied by significant changes in sugar production: the results are also consistent with the thesis of “agricultural involution” in Java. There is strong evidence for technological change in sugar production, though these gains cannot be specifically attributed to either the agricultural or the industrial aspect of sugar production.
Advanced activity reporting in a multi-layered unattended ground sensor network

Sensor networks are emplaced throughout the world to remotely track activity. Typically, these sensors report data such as target direction or target classification. This information is reported to a personnel-based monitor or a command and control center. The ideal sensor system will have a long mission life capability and will report information-rich actionable intelligence with high data integrity at near real-time latency. This paper discusses a multi-layered approach that includes data fusion at the Sensor Node, Sensor Field, and Command and Control Center Layer to create cohesive reports that mitigate false alarms and multiple reports of the same target while providing accurate tracking data on a situational awareness level. This approach is influenced by low-power architecture, and designed to maximize information density and reduce flooding of sensor networks.
Microwave optics and pulsed-wave detection

The energy-decay behavior of pulsed microwaves launched in air has been investigated with different microwave optics geometries. Experimental results, related to different geometries indicate that within the range of our measurements, the detected power referred to the peak intensity of pulsed microwave, decays much slower than those counterparts predicted by the Friis transmission equation as well as by the radar equation. In addition, a novel standing wave measuring technique is presented, where the concept of the `apparent wavelength' is experimentally demonstrated. These observed phenomena may give rise to potential applications in bioengineering, communications and control, where maintenance of the initial pulse amplitude and/or energy profile over long distances is important.© (1994) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Strategic reliance on phonological mediation in lexical access.

The present study investigated strategic variation in reliance on phonological mediation in visual word recognition. In Experiment 1, semantically related or unrelated word primes preceded word, pseudohomophone (e.g.,trane), or nonpseudohomophone (e.g.,trank) targets in a lexical decision task. Semantic priming effects were found for words, and response latencies to pseudohomophones were longer in related than in unrelated prime conditions. In Experiment 2, related or unrelated word primes preceded word or pseudohomophone targets. A relatedness effect was found for words, although it was significant at a 600-msec prime-target stimulus onset asynchrony (SOA) and not at a 200-msec SOA. There was no relatedness effect for pseudohomophones. Experiment 3 was a replication of Experiment 2, except that pseudohomophones were replaced by nonpseudohomophonic orthographic controls. Facilitation effects for related target words were greater in Experiment 3 than in Experiment 2. The results reflect apparent variations in the expectation that a related prime reliably indicates that a target is a word. Although reliance on phonological mediation might be strategically contingent, there could be a brief time period in which phonologically mediated lexical access occurs automatically. Whether phonological information is maintained or suppressed subsequently depends on its overall usefulness for the task.
Mutually exclusive interactions between factors binding to adjacent Sp1 and AT-rich elements regulate gastrin gene transcription in insulinoma cells.

The gastrin gene is transiently expressed in fetal pancreatic islets during islet neogenesis but then switched off after birth when islet cells become fully differentiated. Previous studies identified a cis-regulatory sequence between −109 and −75 in the human gastrin promoter which binds islet cell-specific activators and a nonspecific repressor and thus may act as a molecular switch. The present study identified another cis-regulatory sequence (−163ACACTAAATGAAAGGGCGGGGCAG−140) which bound two islet nuclear proteins in a mutually exclusive manner, as defined by gel shift competition, methylation interference, and DNase I footprinting assays. The general transactivator Sp1 recognized the downstream GGGCGGGG sequence, but Sp1 binding was prevented when another islet factor bound to the adjacent AT-rich sequence (CTAAATGA). This gastrin AT-rich element is nearly identical to the binding site (ATAAATGA) for the islet-specific transcription factor βTF-1. However, the gastrin AT-binding factor appeared to differ from βTF-1 in its gel mobility shift pattern. Transfections of rat insulinoma cells revealed that mutations which blocked binding to the AT-rich element but allowed Sp1 binding up-regulated transcriptional activity. These results suggest that the gastrin AT-binding factor blocks transactivation by Sp1 and may have a role in the repression of gastrin transcription seen at the end of islet differentiation.
Overcoming the Limits of Tuberculosis Prevention among Foreign-Born Individuals: Next Steps toward Eliminating Tuberculosis

From 1993 through 2006 the number of TB cases in the United States decreased by 45% from 25108 to 13767. However the decrease has occurred disproportionately among the US-born population in which the number of cases has decreased by 66%. Over the same interval the number of foreign-born TB cases in the United States actually increased by 5%. In 2006 57% of all TB cases reported were among foreign-born persons. If current trends continue this proportion will continue to grow and we could reach a point at which TB is nearly eliminated among US-born persons but is still a major problem among foreign-born individuals. Similar trends have been noted in other countries with a low burden of TB; in several European countries greater than 50% of TB cases occur among foreign-born persons. These trends raise a fundamental question: why do current TB-control strategies have such limited impact on the foreign-born population? The article by Walter et al. complements previously published evidence to provide some answers to this question and to guide future efforts to control and eliminate TB. (excerpt)
Shadowing an inhomogeneous plane wave by an edge

When an inhomogeneous plane wave or other type of evanescent field in a lossless medium strikes a large opaque object, the boundary of the shadow zone is displaced from the familiar geometric optical location for nonevanescent fields. This change is attributable to the complex propagation direction of evanescent waves. To study the mechanism of shadow formation, and indeed the significance of a shadow zone when the incident evanescent field may be weaker than diffracted fields generated by the obstacle, the problem of inhomogeneous plane diffraction by a perfectly conducting semi-infinite screen is investigated. By a careful asymptotic treatment and error analysis of the known exact solution, the location of the shadow boundary is determined, as is the transition region surrounding it wherein the field cannot be separated into incident and diffracted constituents. It is found that for strongly evanescent fields, the shadow boundary and transition zones differ markedly from those for a homogeneous plane wave. Effects of losses in the medium are also considered.
Evaluation of hepatocyte-specific paramagnetic contrast media for MR imaging of hepatitis.

The hepatocyte-specific paramagnetic magnetic resonance (MR) contrast agents manganese-DPDP [N,N′-dipyridoxylethylenediamine-N,N′-diacetate 5,5′ bis-(phosphate)] and gadobenate dimeglumine were used for diagnosing chemically induced hepatitis in rats. Ex vivo liver tissue relaxation times and in vivo MR image signal-to-noise ratios were compared before and after contrast agent administration. Ex vivo relaxometry and in vivo MR imaging showed that Mn-DPDP enhanced normal and diseased livers to the same degree at all time points from 5 to 120 minutes. Gadobenate dimeglumine showed reduced T1 and T2 enhancements in hepatitis relative to those of normal liver, in the early phase (5–30 minutes). However, these effects are offsetting, and as a result, MR imaging failed to allow distinction of diseased from normal livers. This surprising result observed in vivo was in fact predicted by applying the Bloch equation to our ex vivo data. Our results show that detection and quantitation of hepatitis with MR imaging enhanced with paramagnetic cellspecific contrast agents will be more difficult than anticipated.
Student perceptions of computer science: a retention study comparing graduating seniors with cs leavers

Students who develop a strong interest in another field can hardly be fair target for retention efforts. There are others, however, who might do very well in this field but who leave computer science because of misunderstandings about and a negative experience in this academic major. Retention literature suggests and provides numerous examples of initiatives that improve student retention. To determine how best to impact student retention in your computer science department, a comprehensive understanding of the student experience of your major is essential. Not only is it important to know why students leave your major, but an understanding of why they stay can be useful in developing high impact initiatives.The current study involves a comparative examination of students who graduated from the computer science (CS) major at Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta, Georgia (Stayers) with students who chose to leave the major (Leavers). Specifically, perceptions and experiences of computer science as a field in general and the climate of the major were studied. Comparative data collected provided insights into reasons why they entered into the major, about belief of adequate preparation and confidence going into the major, definitions of CS and other related factors. Results were analyzed to identify potential target areas and concrete implementation strategies are suggested for improved retention in the computer science major at this institution.
Divergent Perceptions of Jail Inmates and Correctional Officers: The “Blame the Other‐Expect to Be Blamed” Effect1

Inmates and correctional officers in a Lwnty jail made attributions of responsibility and predicted each other's attributions in response to four hypothetical stimulus incidents varying in severity of the inmate's intentional misbehavior and the severity of the officer's intentional retribution. When the misbehavior and retribution were moderate, subjects blamed both participants about equally. However, both over- and underreactions to the stimulus inmate's misbehavior elicited defensiveness, with both officers and inmates more likely to attribute responsibility to their opposite role character. In addition, both inmates and officers appeared to respond defensively to severe but equitable retributions. Subjects blamed each other, and, anticipating the other's defensiveness, expected to be blamed. Examination of the data suggested that subjects may have responded stereotypically rather than empathetically, and that defensiveness impeded rather than facilitated predictive accuracy. Results were consistent with previous research, increasing the generality of the “blame the other-expect to be blamed” effect. Additional analyses indicated that inmates were more likely than officers to notice mitigating circumstances when considering the inmates' responsibility. Three recommendations were made which may help to forestall inmate reactivity to retributions: (1) Jail personnel should have objective and clear definitions as to what constitutes major and minor infractions; (2) inmates should be aware of these criteria; and (3) jail personnel should be sensitive to mitigating circumstances and moderate their retribution or anticipate possible reactivity from inmates.
Light microscopic findings

Abstract Routine elastic tissue stains reveal an increased concentration of dermal elastic tissue. The fully developed elastic fiber with abundant elastin is the primary target in PXE. The oxytalin and elaunin fibers in that papillary dermis, which are composed predominantly of microfibrils, are spared. The von Kossa stain for carbonate or phosphate is the best and most sensitive stain to detect early (or late) calcification. Early changes are not visible with H&E staining. In more advanced lesions, the foci of fully calcified and fragmented fibers take on a bluish hue with H&E staining methods. Advanced lesions show positive von Kossa staining around eccrine sweat glands and in the elastic lamina of larger cutaneous vessels. Alizarin red stains for calcium are positive and identify the cation as calcium. Alcian blue stains are positive for acid mucopolysaccharides, showing pooling throughout the dermis. Interpretation is often difficult. Periodic acid-Schiff stains show no abnormalities. Collagen appears normal on all stains. Arteries from surgical specimens may show calcification in the elastic laminae, confirming the systemic nature of PXE.
Linear photoelectron diffraction: application of a rapid approximation for surface structural studies

Abstract The linear superposition approximation proposed by Wander, Pendry and Van Hove for efficient low-energy electron diffraction calculations (“linear LEED”) is applied to photoelectron diffraction (“linear PD”). As with linear LEED, linear PD works very well for calculating the effect of displaced atoms. However, due to strong forward scattering at higher energies, linear PD requires that atoms do not move into or out of alignment. This limitation can be removed by suitable simple adjustments to the basic approximation, promising to make the method effective for structural searches of complex surfaces.
Recovery of contractile function in post-ischaemic reperfused myocardium of conscious dogs: influence of nicorandil, a new antianginal agent

The effects of intravenous administration of nicorandil, a new antianginal agent, on the recovery of regional myocardial contractile function after a 10 minute coronary artery occlusion were studied in chronically instrumented conscious dogs. Compared with the control group nicorandil administration resulted in an increase in heart rate and a decrease in blood pressure with an overall increase in the double product during the preocclusion period, no significant difference in double product during ischaemia, and a significant decrease in double product during reperfusion. After reperfusion the return of regional contractile function was appreciably enhanced in the nicorandil treated group. These effects were seen immediately after coronary reflow and persisted throughout the reperfusion period. These data suggest that nicorandil protects ischaemic cardiac tissue, and that the beneficial actions may be mediated through a reduction in left ventricular afterload.
F-CORE: A Fourier Based Image Compression And Reconstruction Technique

A data compression and reconstruction technique is presented based on a Fourier transformation. Correlations of up to 99.8% have been achieved between the original and the reconstructed image. In this method the complex Fourier coefficients are calculated and sorted from maximum to minimum. A certain small percentage of these coefficients is retained along with their coordinates. An inverse FFT is used to reconstruct a first approximation of the image and after that algebraic reconstruction techniques are used for refinements on the image.
Genetic variability in meiotic gynogenetic muskellunge, Esox masquinongy (Mitchell), estimated from segregation of microsatellite alleles

Muskellunge, Esox masquinongy, is an important recreational freshwater fish native to North America. Since muskellunge populations are often maintained through stocking efforts, advances in muskellunge reproductive technologies are of direct relevance to fishery enhancement. We evaluated the efficiency of inbreeding through induced meiotic diploid gynogenesis. Eggs from six female muskellunge were manually stripped and activated using ultra violet-irradiated yellow perch, Perca flavescens, sperm. Hydrostatic pressure shocking regimes (48 263 kPa) were then applied to the eggs to prevent second polar body expulsion producing unambiguous meiotic gynogens. Six female dams and samples of 12–20 of their gynogenetic progeny were genotyped at seven polymorphic microsatellite loci. Chromosomal recombination frequencies of microsatellite loci based on retention of heterozygosity among gynogens ranged from 0.043 to 0.839 (0.576 � 0.237). There were no statistical differences in recombination frequency among females at any of the loci. The average inbreeding coefficient (F-value) ranged from 0.581 to 0.979, equivalent to three to fourteen generations of full-sibling crosses respectively. The average F-value overall was 0.712, equivalent to between five and six generations of full-sibling crosses. Centromere map distances of the seven microsatellite loci ranged from 2.15 to 41.95 cM and meiotic gynogenesis was useful in eliminating heterozygosity at loci proximal to the centromere, but not distal. Since the age at maturity of female muskellunge is approximately 5 years, gynogenesis may pose an expeditious alternative to traditional breeding strategies for creation of homozygous pedigrees for some loci that may be outcrossed to introduce positive heterozygosity effects in the offspring.
Computed tomography scan versus upper gastrointestinal fluoroscopy for diagnosis of staple line leak following bariatric surgery.

Abstract Background The best radiographic modality to diagnose staple line leaks following bariatric surgery remains controversial. Two common studies used are upper gastrointestinal (UGI) fluoroscopy and computed tomography (CT). This study sought to determine the better modality in detecting clinically significant postoperative leaks. Methods This retrospective review was performed of patients undergoing imaging for suspected staple line leaks following bariatric surgery. These studies were reinterpreted by 2 radiologists who were blinded to the original findings. Results Six hundred nineteen radiographic “leak tests” were selectively performed following bariatric procedures at our institution between January 2005 and December 2011. CT was found to have a sensitivity of 95% (95% confidence interval [CI] 81.8 to 99.1) and a specificity of 100% (95% CI 93.1 to 100) in diagnosing postoperative leaks, while UGI demonstrated a sensitivity of 79.4% (95% CI 61.6 to 90.0) and a specificity of 95% (95% CI 85.2 to 98.7). Conclusion CT is a superior modality compared with UGI for detecting staple line leaks following bariatric surgery.
A photogalvanic cell utilizing the photodissociation of iodine in solution

Abstract A photogalvanic cell is reported in which visible light is converted into electricity via the photodis-sociation of iodine in aqueous and non-aqueous solution. A mechanism for the aqueous system probably involves the formation of I2− or I radical which becomes reduced at the transparent, illuminated electrode. The efficiency is very sensitive to formal concentration of I2, and wavelength, and somewhat less on electrode material, with the highest efficiency observed (0.03 per cent) in a cell containing indium-tin oxide electrode at 4047 A and 9F I2, 3F NaI in acetonitrile.
Thyroid Nodules in Children: A Single Institution's Experience

Thyroid nodules in children are uncommon but often present an increased risk of malignancy in comparison to their adult counterpart. Multiple diagnostic modalities are frequently employed to characterize these nodules including ultrasound, radionuclide scans, fine needle aspiration (FNA), thyroid function tests, and evaluation of patient demographics. We chose to evaluate if any of these modalities influence treatment or signify a tendency for a nodule to represent a malignant lesion. A retrospective review of patients <21 years of age who underwent partial or total thyroidectomy from 2004 to 2009 was performed (IRB no. 4695). Other than an FNA indicating a malignancy, there does not appear to be any value to extensive preoperative imaging, nor can patient risk be stratified based upon age. We conclude that there is minimal utility in an extensive preoperative workup in a child with a thyroid nodule.
Anomalous metalation behavior in 1,3-oxazoles. Alkylation of 2-methyl-4-carboxyoxazoles via the cornforth intermediate

Abstract Metalation of the methyl group in the title compound is accomplished through the open chain Cornforth precursor. This technique is necessary due to the preferred metalation of the 5-H proton in oxazoles.
A Hyperspectral Imaging System for Identification of Faecal and Ingesta Contamination on Poultry Carcasses

A method and system for detecting faecal and ingesta contaminants on poultry carcasses were demonstrated. A visible/near infrared monochromator, which measured reflectance and principal component analysis were first used to identify key wavelengths from faecal and uncontaminated skin samples. Measurements at 434, 517, 565 and 628 nm were identified and used for evaluation with a hyperspectral imaging system. The hyperspectral imaging system, which was a line-scan (pushbroom) imaging system, consisted of a hyperspectral camera, fibre-optic line lights, a computer and frame grabber. The hyperspectral imaging camera consisted of a high-resolution charge coupled device (CCD) camera, a prism-grating-prism spectrograph, focusing lens, associated optical hardware and a motorised controller. The imaging system operated from about 400 to 900 nm. The hyperspectral imaging system was calibrated for wavelength, distance and percent reflectance and analysis of calibrated images at the key wavelengths indicated that single-wavelength images were inadequate for detecting contaminants. However, a ratio of images at two of the key wavelengths was able to identify faecal and ingesta contaminants. Specifically, the ratio of the 565-nm image divided by the 517-nm image produced good results. The ratio image was then further processed by masking the background and either enhancing the image contrast with a non-linear histogram stretch, or applying a faecal threshold. The results indicated that, for the limited sample population, more than 96% of the contaminants were detected. Thus, the hyperspectral imaging system was able to detect contaminants and showed feasibility, but was too slow for real-time on-line processing. Therefore, a multivariate system operating at 565 and 517 nm, which should be capable of operating at real-time on-line processing speed, should be used. Further research with such a system needs to be conducted.
Construction of artificial chromosomes in yeast

Fifty-five-kilobase long artificial chromosomes containing cloned genes, replicators, centromeres and telomeres have been constructed in yeast. These molecules have many of the properties of natural yeast chromosomes. Centromere function is impaired on short (less than 20 kilobases) artificial chromosomes.
RESCU: dynamic hybrid packet-loss recovery for video transmission over the Internet (poster session)

The current Internet is not reliable; packet loss rates are frequently high, and varying over time. Transmitting high-quality interactive video over the Internet is challenging because the quality of compressed video is very susceptible to packet losses. Loss of packets belonging to a video frame manifests itself not only in the reduced quality of that frame but also in the propagation of that distortion to successive frames. This error propagation problem is inherent in many motion-based video codecs due to the interdependence of encoded video frames. This paper presents a dynamic loss recovery scheme, called RESCU, to address the error propagation problem. In this new scheme, picture coding patterns are dynamically adapted to current network conditions in order to maximize the effectiveness of hybrid transport level recovery (employing both forward error correction and retransmission) in reducing error propagation. Since RESCU does not introduce any playout delay at the receiver, it is suitable for interactive video communication. An experimental study based on actual Internet transmission traces representing various network conditions shows that dynamic hybrid RESCU exhibits better error resilience and incurs much less bit overhead than existing error recovery techniques such as NEWPRED and Intra-H.261.
The Roles of Victim and Perpetrator Alcohol Use in Intimate Partner Violence Outcomes

Alcohol use increases the risk of intimate partner violence (IPV), yet little research has examined its role in victimization outcomes (e.g., physical injury, police reporting). This study examined the roles of perpetrator and victim incident-specific alcohol use in IPV outcomes. The sample included 501 men and 1,756 women who had experienced an IPV physical assault. Logistic regression analyses showed that after controlling for relevant covariates, women whose partners had been drinking were significantly more likely to be injured than were women whose partners had not been drinking. A woman's own alcohol use was unrelated to victimization outcomes. Men were significantly more likely to report the incident if their partners had been drinking but were marginally less likely to report if they had been drinking. Findings suggest that perpetrators' incident-specific alcohol use is important in understanding which victims are most likely to be injured and report the incident to the police.
Analytical and experimental study of vibrations in a gear transmission

An analytical simulation of the dynamics of a gear transmission system is presented and compared to experimental results from a gear noise test rig at the NASA Lewis Research Center. The analytical procedure developed couples the dynamic behaviors of the rotor-bearing-gear system with the response of the gearbox structure. The modal synthesis method is used in solving the overall dynamics of the system. Locally each rotor-gear stage is modeled as an individual rotor-bearing system using the matrix transfer technique. The dynamics of each individual rotor are coupled with other rotor stages through the nonlinear gear mesh forces and with the gearbox structure through bearing support systems. The modal characteristics of the gearbox structure are evaluated using the finite element procedure. A variable time steping integration routine is used to calculate the overall time transient behavior of the system in modal coordinates. The global dynamic behavior of the system is expressed in a generalized coordinate system. Transient and steady state vibrations of the gearbox system are presented in the time and frequency domains. The vibration characteristics of a simple single mesh gear noise test rig is modeled. The numerical simulations are compared to experimental data measured under typical operating conditions. The comparison of system natural frequencies, peak vibration amplitudes, and gear mesh frequencies are generally in good agreement.
Characterization of the Luminescent, Homoleptic, Three-Coordinate, Water Soluble Au(I) Complex of Trisulfonated Triphenylphosphine (TPPTS) as the Cesium Salt, Cs8[Au(TPPTS)3].5.25 H2O

The homoleptic metal-TPPTS complex Cs8[Au(TPPTS)3].5.25 H2O has been characterized structurally. The x-ray data for the triclinic crystal, P-1, with cell constants a = 13.7003(4), b = 18.0001(6), c = 18.2817(2), α = 100.249(2), β = 99.593(2), ψ = 109.818(2) shows trigonal planar Au(I) centers coordinated by three TPPTS ligands having Au-P distances equal to 2.374(6), 2.394(5), and 2.417(5)A. The structure shows a complex network of bonding involving the Cs+ ions, the sulfate groups of the ligand, and H2O solvent molecules. The [Au(TPPTS)3]8− luminesces in the solid state and in aqueous solution with a broad emission atca 520 nm which is quenched by O2. and other small molecules. The forbidden singlet to triplet absorption atca 552 nm with e≈ 0.8Lmol−1 cm−1 is also observed.
Effect of Calcium on the Action of Pilocarpine and Atropine.

Summary1. Pilocarpine stimulates intestinal movements in the absence of calcium in the surrounding medium, but tonus is only slightly increased. 2. Excess calcium depresses the effect of pilocarpine on the intestine. 3. Pilocarpine sensitizes the intestine to calcium. 4. Pilocarpine in Ringer minus calcium is without effect on the isolated frog heart. 5. Excess calcium antagonizes the depression produced by pilocarpine. 6. The action of atropine is reversed by calcium deficiency, thus causing a slowing of the heart.
Impact of growth conditions on ZnO homoepitaxial films on ZnO substrates by plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy

ZnO thin films were epitaxially grown on Zn-polar (0001) ZnO substrates by plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy. Surface root mean square (rms) roughness below 0.3 nm was achieved on a large range of growth temperatures by growing on ZnO substrates with 0.5 degree miscut angle toward [11¯00] axis. Surface treatment with acid etching and ozone exposure was required to remove contamination such as silica residual and carboxyl and carbonate groups on the surface. Removal of these surface impurities reduces the likelihood of extrinsic defect migration into the epitaxial films. High growth temperature (> 640°C) and oxygen rich conditions were required for films with terrace steps, but resulted in a very low growth rate (~30nm/h) and low photoluminescence (PL) lifetimes of lower than 50 ps. With moderate growth temperature (~610°C), higher growth rate and higher PL lifetime with up to 380 ps were achieved. EIT was used for the oxygen plasma to reduce reactive oxygen species etching of the surface, resulting in a higher growth rate and fewer defects in the films. Good crystalline quality was evident in Xray rocking curves with consistent narrow full width at half maximum (FWHM) of (0002), (101¯2) and (202¯1) peaks, indicating low threading dislocations. Both room-temperature and low-temperature photoluminescence indicated high optical quality of the resultant films with few non-radiative recombination centers.
A World Record Rainfall Rate at Holt, Missouri: Was It Due to Cold Frontogenesis Aloft?

Abstract On 22 June 1947, Holt, Missouri, experienced a world-record rainstorm when 304.8 mm (∼1 ft) of rain fell in 42 minutes. In this paper, evidence is presented that this extremely heavy rain may have been produced by cold frontogenesis aloft (CFA). It is shown that what was earlier analyzed as a surface cold front was probably a drytrough, and that CFA was located at 700 hPa east of the drytrough, close to the location of the squall line, that produced the record precipitation rate.
Dexmedetomidine sedation during awake craniotomy for seizure resection: effects on electrocorticography.

Patients with refractory seizures may undergo awake craniotomy and cortical resection of the seizure area, using intraoperative functional mapping and electrocorticography (ECoG). We used dexmedetomidine in 6 patients, transitioning successively from the asleep-awake-asleep method, through a combined propofol/dexmedetomidine sedative infusion, to dexmedetomidine as the only sedation. Initial experience with the asleep-awake-asleep method in 2 patients was successful with the replacement of propofol/laryngeal mask anesthesia, 20 to 30 minutes before ECoG testing, by dexmedetomidine infusion, maintained at 0.2 mcg kg−1 h−1 throughout neurocognitive testing. Propofol anesthesia was reintroduced for resection. One patient received combined dexmedetomidine (0.2 mcg kg−1 h−1) and propofol (200 mcg kg−1 min−1) infusions for sedation. Both infusions were stopped 15 minutes before ECoG. Subsequently, they were restarted and the epileptic foci resected. Three patients received dexmedetomidine as the sole sedative agent, together with scalp block local anesthesia, and incremental boluses totaling 150 to 175 mcg of fentanyl per case. Dexmedetomidine was started with 0.3 mcg kg−1 boluses and maintained with 0.2 to 0.7 mcg kg−1 h−1 for craniotomy, testing, and resection. The infusion was paused for 20 minutes in 1 patient to allow improvement in neurocognitive testing. This occurred within 10 minutes. All patients enjoyed good hemodynamic control, with blood pressure maintained within 20% of initial values, and made uneventful recoveries. The surgical conditions were all reported as favorable. Dexmedetomidine can be used singly for sedation in awake craniotomy requiring ECoG. Individual dose ranges vary, but a bolus of 0.3 mcg kg−1 with an infusion of 0.2 mcg kg−1 min−1 is a good starting point, allowing accurate mapping of epileptic foci and subsequent resection.
Recurrent Risk of Adverse Pregnancy Outcome

It is an unfortunate fact that all pregnancies do not end with healthy babies and healthy mothers. Families who have experienced an adverse pregnancy outcome require accurate information about the risk of recurrence to plan future childbearing. This article examines the recurrence risk of four complications of pregnancy: gestational diabetes, preterm delivery, stillbirth, and preeclampsia. Combined, these four complications are responsible for approximately 24% of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality.
Effects of computer programming experience on network representations of abstract programming concepts

Abstract The cognitive organization of a set of abstract programming concepts was investigated in subjects who varied in degree of computer programming experience. Relatedness ratings on pairs of the concepts were collected from naive, novice, intermediate, and advanced programmers. Both individual and group network representations of memory structure were derived using the Pathfinder network scaling algorithm. Not only did the four group networks differ, but they varied systematically with experience, providing support for the psychological meaningful-ness of the structures. Additionally, an analysis at the conceptual level revealed that the four groups differed in the way concepts were represented. Furthermore, this analysis was used to classify concepts in the naive, novice, and intermediate networks as well-defined or misdefined. The identification of semantic relations corresponding to some of the links in the networks provided further information concerning differences in programmer knowledge at different levels of experience. Applications of this work to programmer education and knowledge engineering are discussed.
Botanical Phenolics and Brain Health

The high demand for molecular oxygen, the enrichment of polyunsaturated fatty acids in membrane phospholipids, and the relatively low abundance of antioxidant defense enzymes are factors rendering cells in the central nervous system (CNS) particularly vulnerable to oxidative stress. Excess production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the brain has been implicated as a common underlying factor for the etiology of a number of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), and stroke. While ROS are generated by enzymatic and nonenzymatic reactions in the mitochondria and cytoplasm under normal conditions, excessive production under pathological conditions is associated with activation of Ca2+-dependent enzymes including proteases, phospholipases, nucleases, and alterations of signaling pathways which subsequently lead to mitochondrial dysfunction, release of inflammatory factors, and apoptosis. In recent years, there is considerable interest to investigate antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects of phenolic compounds from different botanical sources. In this review, we describe oxidative mechanisms associated with AD, PD, and stroke, and evaluate neuroprotective effects of phenolic compounds, such as resveratrol from grape and red wine, curcumin from turmeric, apocynin from Picrorhiza kurroa, and epi-gallocatechin from green tea. The main goal is to provide a better understanding of the mode of action of these compounds and assess their use as therapeutics to ameliorate age-related neurodegenerative diseases.
An Investigation of Wall Curl Reduction Through Post-Stretch Forming

When sheet metals go through drawbeads or die corners, stress differentials are generated across metal thickness. The draw wall will curl up upon release of stamping tools, resulting in so-called wall curl. It is a serious problem in the deep drawings of U-channel type of structures such as rails. Numerical modeling is conducted to investigate a post-stretch forming process for wall curl reduction. In this process a set of lockbeads in the binder activates just before the end of punch stroke, locking the remaining blank in the binder. The continuation of the punch stroke then creates a final increment of pure stretch. It is most effective for deep drawings of U-channel type of structures such as rails. This technique is also known as “post-stretch” or “shape set” in the automotive industry and in the literature. Finite element simulations for a straight channel are conducted in order to understand the wall curl reduction mechanism of the process and to determine its effectiveness. After an examination of deformation profile after drawing and wall curl as a result of springback, various magnitude of post-stretch amount is modeled and their deformation history is analyzed. It is found that a post-stretch strain around 2% almost completely eliminates wall curl. CAE investigations demonstrate that the technique is equally applicable to more complex 3D channel, where a step channel is examined. The effectiveness of this concept is demonstrated by laboratory experiment on the forming of a U-channel. Various implementation techniques for the process in an industrial environment are also suggested, together with a discussion on the associated benefits and costs for production use.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Wettability and friction of CF3-terminated monolayer films on gold

Abstract Studies of the wettability and friction of self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) generated from the terminally fluorinated alkanethiols (CF 3 (CH 2 ) n SH, n = 9–15) on gold are reported. These data were compared to those of SAMs generated from the non-fluorinated analogs (CH 3 (CH 2 ) n SH, n = 9–15). The CF 3 -terminated SAMs were less wettable by hexadecane and methylene iodide, but surprisingly more wettable by water and glycerol than were the CH 3 -terminated SAMs. Measurements of friction by atomic force microscopy (AFM) revealed an approximate threefold increase in friction on the CF 3 -terminated films compared to the CH 3 -terminated films. A new model for the frictional response of fluorinated SAMs is proposed.
Endometrial ISG17 mRNA and a related mRNA are induced by interferon-tau and localized to glandular epithelial and stromal cells from pregnant cows.

The interferon stimulated gene product, ISG17, conjugates to bovine uterine proteins in response to conceptus-derived interferon (IFN)-τ. The objectives of the present experiments were to examine induction of ISG17 (0.65 kb) and a related 2.5 kb mRNA in response to IFN-τ and pregnancy using Northern blotting procedures, and to determine cell types in the endometrium that expressed ISG17 mRNA usingin situ hybridization. RNA was isolated from endometrial explants or from bovine endometrial (BEND) cells cultured in the absence (control) or presence of 25 nM recombinant (r) bolFN-τ for 0, 3, 6, 12, 24, or 48 h. The major ISG17 0.65 kb mRNA and a minor 2.5 kb mRNA were induced (p<0.05) after 6 h (explants) or 3 h (BEND cells) treatment with rbolFN-τ. Both mRNAs were present in endometrium from day 18 pregnant cows, but were absent in endometrium from nonpregnant cows. The ISG17 mRNA was localized to stromal and glandular epithelial cells on d 18 of pregnancy. The 2.5 kb mRNA may encode a novel ISG17 homolog, or a unique polyISG17 repeat that is similar in structure to the polyubiquitin genes. Because ISG17 mRNA is induced in stromal and glandular epithelial cells, it could be assumed that ISG17 has a role in regulating intracellular proteins in both cell types.
Accelerating Video-Mining Applications Using Many Small, General-Purpose Cores

Emerging video-mining applications such as image and video retrieval and indexing will require real-time processing capabilities. A many-core architecture with 64 small, in-order, general-purpose cores as the accelerator can help meet the necessary performance goals and requirements. The key video-mining modules can achieve parallel speedups of 19times to 62times from 64 cores and get an extra 2.3times speedup from 128-bit SIMD vectorization on the proposed architecture.
An approach to respiratory distress and central nervous system emergencies.

Prompt recognition and institution of therapy is mandatory in patients with respiratory distress irrelevant of the etiology. Since the brain has a poor tolerance to hypoxia, neurological sings in the hypoxic patients should be reason for concern. Seizures and coma are cerebral manifestations of a variety of nervous system insults. Attention to the cardiorespiratory status and maintenance of cerebral perfusion, oxygenation, and glucose should be followed by a through search for an etiology.
The Reach of Child Abuse Potential: Its Relationship With Features of Parenting at Home

This paper examines the reach of child abuse potential by exploring its association with multiple features of parenting (i.e., connection, regulation, and stimulation). Twenty-four mothers with infants or toddlers from low-income families who were beginning participation in an intergenerational learning program completed the Child Abuse Potential Inventory (CAPI; Milner, 1986) when they enrolled in the program. A family worker visited each family's home during the same week and administered the Infant-Toddler HOME Inventory (Caldwell & Bradley, 1984), a 45-minute interview and observation system that assesses the quality of stimulation and support available to a child in the home environment. Total scores from the CAPI and HOME Inventories were inversely associated (r = −0.61, p < .002), as were scores on the CAPI and two features of parenting represented by subscales of the HOME, regulation and stimulation. Contrary to expectations, the CAPI was not significantly inversely associated with the connection ...
PLASMA DESORPTION MASS SPECTROMETRY : THE STABILITY OF MOLECULAR IONS

The peak widths and relative intensities of the singly- and multiply-charged molecular ions appearing in plasma desorption mass spectra are used as a probe for the stability of molecular ions. Two peptides, lysozyme and lactalbumin, which have similar molecular weights and tertiary structures, but different primary structures and isoelectric points, were prepared in solutions of different pH, before adsorption to nitrocellulose foils. The peak widths of the resultant molecular ion signals were minimized near their respective isoelectric points, which is consistent with reports on the stability of their tertiary structures and/or enzymatic activities near the isoelectric point. Similar studies were carried out with the addition of glutathione, a matrix which has effects on PDMS spectra similar to that of the nitrocellulose surface.
Development of mercury hypersensitivity among dental students

A study of the rate of mercury hypersensitivity from the prefreshman to the senior class of the University of Texas Dental Branch at Houston is presented. Dental students were patch tested with mercuric chloride and silver amalgam to determine if the rate of hypersensitivity to mercury increased as they were exposed to silver amalgam during their dental training. A statistically significant increase was found in the rate of mercury hypersensitivity from the prefreshman to the senior class. The potential for development of this hypersensitivity presents an added hazard from exposure to mercury in the preparation of silver amalgam.
Dear Author—Advice from a Retiring Editor

This commentary, detailing the handling of a manuscript by the editor and guiding authors on preparing manuscripts and responding to reviews, provides parting advice to authors from a retiring editor. A close reading of this commentary will give some insight into the editorial process at the American Journal of Epidemiology through the observations of one of its editors.
Undergraduate ocean projects course

The ocean engineering projects course at the University of New Hampshire was begun in 1965-66 and has been funded since 1968-69 by the SEAGRANT Office of NOAA. It is the only academic year undergraduate education program sponsored by SEAGRANT. The projects course provides the undergraduate student with an educational experience that he would not normally receive in his academic program - the experience of working as a member of an interdisciplinary team on a meaningful problem (ocean-related) under real-world constraints. Projects are of three basic types: those that lead to a piece of working hardware to solve a technological ocean problem, those that involve the gathering and analysis of biological and geological data, and those that are comprehensive studies of an ocean-oriented societal problem with recommendations for action. Under the guidance of a faculty adviser, each student team defines a problem, prepares and submits a budget, engages in dialogue with experts in the ocean community, makes progress reports, and writes a comprehensive final report. In addition, students on hardware-oriented projects deal with vendors and design, build and test prototype models, whereas students in non-hardware-oriented projects meet with local, state, and federal officials, do comprehensive library searches and often conduct appropriate surveys. In May, each project group makes an oral presentation and defense of its work, with visual aids, before a jury of experts drawn from the various sectors of the ocean community.
Dynamic role of epithelium-derived cytokines in asthma

Asthma is an inflammatory disorder of the airways, characterized by infiltration of mast cells, eosinophils, and Th2-type CD4+ T cells in the airway wall. Airway epithelium constitutes the first line of interaction with our atmospheric environment. The protective barrier function of the airway epithelium is likely impaired in asthma. Furthermore, recent studies suggest critical immunogenic and immunomodulatory functions of airway epithelium. In particular, a triad of cytokines, including IL-25, IL-33 and TSLP, is produced and released by airway epithelial cells in response to various environmental and microbial stimuli or by cellular damage. These cytokines induce and promote Th2-type airway inflammation and cause remodeling and pathological changes in the airway walls, suggesting their pivotal roles in the pathophysiology of asthma. Thus, the airway epithelium can no longer be regarded as a mere structural barrier, but must be considered an active player in the pathogenesis of asthma and other allergic disorders.