cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Alcohol use after traumatic brain injury: Concordance of patients' and relatives' reports

Abstract Objective: To investigate bias and concurrent validity of patients' alcohol use reports by examining concordance with relatives' reports Design: Using a quasiexperimental static group comparison design, alcohol use was examined at 1 year after injury. Chisquare analyses, t tests, and a Fisher exact probability test were conducted to investigate the relationship between patients' and caregivers' reports on measures of alcohol use. Setting: Medical center outpatient clinic Participants: 175 adult patients with traumatic brain injury and 175 family informants. Inclusion criteria were: patient older than 18 years of age and completion of self-report and family member versions of questionnaires. The full range of brain injury severity was represented. Main Outcome Measures: Quantity-Frequency-Variability Index (QFVI; Cahalan and Cisin, 1968); Brief Michigan Alcohol Screening Test (B-MAST; Porkorny et al, 1972). Results: A high rate of concordance, typically greater than 90%, was noted between patients' and relatives' reports on each of the alcohol use measures. Chi-square analyses revealed no significant differences ( p > .05) between patients' and relatives' reports for the QFVI or the B-MAST. Inspection of the data found lesser rates of agreement for persons with severe injuries. Chi-square analyses revealed no differences based on family members' relationship to patients or whether they lived together or apart. However, a Fisher exact probability test ( p Conclusions: The results do not support the hypothesis that patients underreport drinking and that their reports are inconsistent with those of caregivers. The high levels of concordance are consistent with those found in similar research studies involving alcoholic populations. Results suggest that patients' reports should be given higher credibility and should not be routinely dismissed in favor of information provided by families. However, more caution is necessary when collecting information from persons with severe injury.
Nothoaspis reddelli, New Genus and New Species (Ixodoidea: Argasidae), from a Bat Cave in Mexico

Described is Nothoaspis reddelli , new genus and new species from 3 males taken on bat guano, Grutas de Xtacumbilxunam, Campeche, Mexico. N. reddelli appears to be most closely related to species of the genus Antricola , but differs significantly because of a nothoand aspis (false shield) over the anterior half of the dorsum by virtue of its having a hypostome in the adult stage. The presence of a shield-like structure is unique among argasid ticks; thus, a new genus is proposed to accommodate this distinctive tick.
Spectra of the ammonium radical: The Schuster band of ND4

Abstract The Schuster band of ammonia occurs in many kinds of electric discharges through streaming ammonia if the pressure is not too low. While it is entirely diffuse for ordinary ammonia it shows a fairly clear structure (and an isotope shift) when produced with heavy ammonia (ND 3 ). Studies with intermediate isotopes show conclusively that there are four H atoms and a single N atom present in the molecule responsible for this spectrum, i.e., that it is due to the ammonium (NH 4 ) radical. An attempt is made to understand the structure of the ND 4 Schuster band in terms of a tetrahedral configuration of the molecule in both upper and lower state. By assuming that the lower state is the (predissociating) ground-state 3 s 2 A 1 of the molecule while the upper state is a 2 F 2 state derived from a 3 d electron it is possible to obtain quite a fair and detailed representation of the observed structure including partly resolved tetrahedral splittings in the upper state. The agreement of the wavenumber of the band origin with several recent ab initio calculations is not as good as one might wish and not as good as in the analogous case of H 3 . This and other difficulties of the present interpretation of the spectrum are briefly discussed.
Gender Differences in Gastrointestinal, Psychological, and Somatic Symptoms in Irritable Bowel Syndrome

In the United States, more women than men seek health-care services for symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). A number of explanations are given for this gender difference including the higher rates of somatic non-gastrointestinal symptoms and increased psychological distress reported by women with IBS. However, these gender differences are found in studies that rely on retrospective recall with little attention to age or reproductive status. The purpose of the current analysis was to prospectively compare the frequency (days/month of moderate to severe based on a daily diary) of somatic, gastrointestinal (GI), and psychological distress symptoms, in menstruating women (N = 89) and postmenopausal women (N = 66) to men (N = 32) with IBS. In addition, the correlation between daily symptoms and daily report of overall health was evaluated. Postmenopausal women reported significantly more GI pain/discomfort symptoms, especially bloating and abdominal distension, than men, however these differences are greatly attenuated when age is controlled for. Both postmenopausal and menstruating women reported significantly more somatic symptoms (especially joint pain and muscle pain) than men with IBS. The effect was stronger in postmenopausal women, whose somatic symptoms were also higher than menstruating women (P = 0.014). Fatigue and stress were higher in women than men but anxiety and depression were not. All three types of symptoms were strongly correlated with self-rating of health, both across and within-person. Gender-related differences in GI and somatic symptoms are apparent in persons with IBS, more strongly in postmenopausal women. The presence of somatic symptoms in postmenopausal women with IBS may challenge clinicians to find suitable therapeutic options.
Effects of monitor well purging technique on selected chemical properties of surficial groundwater.

Evaluation of groundwater quality is generally conducted by analysis of a representative sample collected by installation of monitoring wells (Nielsen 1991; Wilson 1995). Drinking water wells have been used for preliminary assessment and to determine the potential of groundwater contamination. However, the information on the construction details, i.e., depth of well, depth of casing, etc., are not always available for the drinking water wells. Furthermore, drinking water wells generally extend multiple aquifers and often contain large pore volume, therefore, require pumping large quantity of water to dispose the stagnant water in the well prior to sampling for analysis. Due to the above limitations, confirmation of groundwater contamination often requires installation of monitoring wells for sampling groundwater to analyze the concentration of the contaminant in question. The principle behind sampling monitor wells is to ensure that the sample collected is representative of the area, unlike sampling a drinking water well which represents stagnant water. The properties of water can vary considerably in stagnant water as compared to those of the water in the aquifer in its natural state.
Mais comment peut-on être protestant en Nouvelle-France au dix-septième siècle?

Abstract En 1627, le cardinal de Richelieu, qui essaie de l'emporter sur les protestants au siege de La Rochelle, decide de leur interdire l'acces au Canada afi n qu'ils ne puissent jamais s'y installer. Dans l'esprit du cardinal, la Nouvelle-France ne doit pas ressembler a 'l'ancienne' trop longtemps dechiree par les guerres de religion. Au Canada, 'une foi, une loi, un roi' sera desormais la regle. L'Eglise catholique (principalement les jesuites), avec l'appui de l'autorite royale, va etre responsable de l'application de cette interdiction de sejour. Neanmoins, le commerce maritime entre la France et le Canada restera principalement sous le controle des protestants dans la premiere moitie du dix-septieme siecle. Et quelques huguenots passeront l'ete, et parfois meme l'hiver, dans la colonie. Cet article va etudier la rare mais reelle presence protestante en Nouvelle-France.
Validity of factors of the Psychopathy Checklist--Revised in female prisoners: discriminant relations with antisocial behavior, substance abuse, and personality.

The validity of the Psychopathy Checklist–Revised (PCL-R) has been examined extensively in men, but its validity for women remains understudied. Specifically, the correlates of the general construct of psychopathy and its components as assessed by PCL-R total, factor, and facet scores have yet to be examined in depth. Based on previous research conducted with male offenders, a large female inmate sample was used to examine the patterns of relations between total, factor, and facet scores on the PCL-R and various criterion variables. These variables include ratings of psychopathy based on Cleckley’s criteria, symptoms of antisocial personality disorder, and measures of substance use and abuse, criminal behavior, institutional misconduct, interpersonal aggression, normal range personality, intellectual functioning, and social background variables. Results were highly consistent with past findings in male samples and provide further evidence for the construct validity of the PCL-R two-factor and four-facet models across genders.
Sustained apoptosis in human cardiac allografts despite histologic resolution of rejection.

Background. We investigated the occurrence of apoptosis during and after resolution of cardiac allograft rejection. Apoptosis could play different roles in graft survival depending on the target cells; thus, we also determined the cell types involved. Methods. Endomyocardial biopsy specimens were evaluated during the first 6 months after transplantation as follows: group I, no current or prior rejection; group II, during an episode of moderate rejection; and group III, histologic resolution after an episode of moderate rejection. Results. Groups II and III showed significantly increased apoptotic activity, indicated by increased caspase-8 and caspase-3 activity; however, activated caspase-3 was undetectable in group I. Activated caspase-3 was detected only in groups II and III. Terminal deoxynucleotide transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling was detected in groups II and III but not group I and predominantly in inflammatory cells. Conclusions. Increased caspase activity and apoptosis of infiltrating cells not only occurs during acute cardiac allograft rejection but persists after histologic resolution. Thus, programmed cell death occurs beyond the period of histologic resolution and may play a role in regulation of the rejection process.
Caution concerning the Stained Particle Technique for Determining Gastrointestinal Retention Time of Dietary Residues

Abstract Three different size particles of ground alfalfa hay were stained different colors and fed together in a single meal. Stained fecal particles were collected on either a 40- or a 60-mesh sieve for subsequent counting and calculation of the mean retention for each size feed particles' residue. Mean retention times based on counting fecal particles collected on the 60-mesh sieve as compared to the 40-mesh sieve were significantly less for the smaller size feed particles and not significantly different for the two larger size feed particles. These results are discussed in relation to the possible influence of size of fecal particle collected and counted upon the determination of mean retention time of feed particles.
Flavin adenine dinucleotide is a major endogenous fluorophore in the inner ear.

Abstract When illuminated with visible light, hair cells can exhibit autofluorescence (Lewis et al. [1982]Science 215, 1641–1643) concentrated in the basal pole near the synapses (Sento and Furukawa [1987] J. Comp. Neurol. 258, 352–367). The autofluorescence is enhanced by formaldehyde. The level of fluorescence is high enough to interfere with fluorescence microscopy of hair cells and to suggest that the fluorescent substance might have a particular role in hair-cell function. To identify this substance, we extracted a substance with formaldehyde-enhanced fluorescence from the inner ears of goldfish and purified it chromatographically. The substance copurified with FAD and had the same fluorescence emission spectrum. Two further results supported the identity of the endogenous fluorescent substance with FAD. First, as is the case with flavins, the autofluorescence in inner ear tissue examined within a few hours after fixation was reduced by addition of dithionite. Second, as is the case with the formaldehyde-enhanced fluorophore, the fluorescence of FAD was enhanced by formaldehyde. FAD accounted for 90% of flavins in goldfish inner ears; its concentration in the sensory epithelium was estimated to be about 30 nmol/g tissue weight, one of the highest tissue concentrations known. The FAD is probably associated with an unidentified flavoprotein concentrated in the basal, synaptic region of the hair cell.
Prestrain‐Free Dielectric Elastomers Based on Acrylic Thermoplastic Elastomer Gels: A Morphological and (Electro)Mechanical Property Study

Recent efforts have established that thermoplastic elastomer gels (TPEGs) composed of styrenic triblock copolymers swollen with a midblock-selective solvent exhibit remarkable electromechanical properties as high-performance dielectric elastomers. This class of electroactive polymers typically requires high electric fields for actuation, and a shortcoming that continues to thwart the widespread commercialization of such materials in general is the need to apply mechanical prestrain prior to electroactuation to decrease film thickness and, thus, the electric potential required to promote actuation. To alleviate this requirement, TPEGs consisting of acrylic triblock copolymers differing in molecular weight and composition, and swollen with a high dielectric, midblock-selective solvent are investigated. Synchrotron small-angle x-ray scattering is used to probe the nanoscale morphologies of the resultant materials, and analysis of quasi-static and cyclic tensile properties provides additional insight into both blend morphologies and electroactuation efficacy. Actuation strains measured in the absence of mechanical prestrain exceed 100% on an area basis, and electric fields capable of inducing actuation are as low as ∼20 kV/mm. Failure occurs by either electromechanical instability or dielectric breakdown, depending on the copolymer and TPEG composition employed. The electromechanical properties of these acrylic-based TPEGs match or exceed those of skeletal muscle, in which case they constitute an attractive and unexplored alternative to existing dielectric elastomers.
The crack-line (plane) stress field method for estimating SIFs : A review

Abstract A review is given in this paper of a simple and effective method for deriving stress intensity factor (SIF) expressions of some finite two- and three-dimensional crack problems. Two versions of the method are provided, the first one needs the elastic crack stress solution on the crack-line (plane) in an infinite plate (or body) as a prerequisite; however, the second one waives this condition. Basic ideas and assumptions of the method are illustrated with examples. Simple and useful SIF expressions are presented; these expressions, with an accuracy generally better than 10%, are either much simpler than those which already exist or a necessary supplement to the stress intensity factors handbooks. Further application prospects and unsettled questions of the method are pointed out, while misleading claims and erroneous results by other authors are clarified.
The learning curve associated with a simulated ultrasound-guided interventional task by inexperienced anesthesia residents.

Background and objective Ultrasound has become an increasingly popular modality in facilitating the performance of peripheral nerve blocks. There exists no literature that examines the learning curve of the ultrasound novice. In this prospective series, we evaluated the learning curve of inexperienced anesthesia residents in performing a simulated ultrasound-guided interventional procedure. In doing so, we hoped to identify reproducible patterns of human errors, which could potentially aid in the prevention of real-life iatrogenic injuries. Methods Ten subjects were prospectively enrolled. After a brief introduction to the ultrasound system, the subjects were asked to perform 6 sequential trials of a simulated breast cyst aspiration. For the first 3 trials, each subject attempted to place a 22-gauge b-bevel needle into any aspect of an olive buried inside the turkey breast. After completion of these 3 trials, the subjects were asked to place the needle into the exact midpoint of the olive wall closest to the transducer. Trials were videotaped and analyzed for task performance in terms of speed and accuracy. Results All subjects successfully completed the 6 interventional trials. The mean time to perform the task was reduced by 38% and 48%, respectively, for the second and third trials. A composite score of accuracy showed an improvement of 36% and 59%, respectively, for the second and third trials. The most common committed error, which occurred in 7 of 10 subjects, was the failure to accurately image the needle while advancing. This resulted in excessive depth of penetration and inadvertent transfixation of the olive in 5 of these subjects. Conclusions Anesthesiology residents, with little or no ultrasound experience, can rapidly learn and improve their speed and accuracy in performing a simulated interventional ultrasound procedure. A concerning novice pattern was identified where the subjects advanced the needle even though it was not appropriately visualized in the ultrasound beam. This resulted in needle placement error, which could cause iatrogenic injury in the clinical setting.
Atomic structure of grain boundaries

Abstract Atomic-scale structures of fcc oxide and metal grain boundaries are investigated by highresolution electron microscopy. This paper focuses on the examination of structures that evolve when the grain boundary deviates from the ideal planar and periodic geometry. Examples are given for atomic-scale grain boundary steps with and without dislocation character. The misorientation dependence of atomic-scale grain boundary structures is investigated in 〈110〉 tilt grain boundaries of gold near the (113)(113) low-energy cusp. Common grain boundary relaxation modes include those of stacking disorder, low-index asymmetric facets and microfacets. All of the observed structures and atomic relaxation modes in grain boundaries are consistent with the short-range nature of the interatomic interactions which lead to misfit localization and a tendency to preserve as much as possible the atomic coordination of the defect-free solid.
Design Analysis and Control of a Magnetorheological Fluid Based Torque Transfer Device

AbstractIn this paper, a magnetorheological (MR) torque transfer device is presented. Design, modeling and control aspects are particularly emphasized. MR fluids possess the unique ability to undergo dramatic and nearly completely reversible changes in their rheological properties under the application of a magnetic field. These controllable fluids can serve as quiet, rapid interfaces between electronic controls and mechanical systems. One area of application is to use these fluids as actuators. The MR torque transfer device proposed here can function as either a clutch or a brake. A model providing torque output as a function of magnetic field and rotational speed is proposed and verified experimentally. An acceptable correlation is found between model predictions and clutch performance. A PID controller is designed and experimentally evaluated. In the experimental control setup, the output variables are the position, velocity, and torque at the output shaft and the control input is the electromagnet cur...
Kinetics of the Si(111)2 × 1→ 5 × 5 and 7 × 7 transformation studied by scanning tunneling microscopy

Abstract The scanning tunneling microscope is used to study the transformation of the Si(111)2 × 1 surface to the 7 × 7 structure, as a function of time and annealing temperature. Two intermediate states are found in the transition: a disordered adatom covered 1× 1 surface, and a well ordered 5 × 5 structure. The surface transformation is observed to occur in two stages. First, nucleation at steps or 2 × 1 domain boundaries produces disordered arrangements of adatoms on a 1 × 1 surface, which then order, producing small domains of 5 × 5 and 7 × 7 structure. Second, growth from these small domains occurs, with the remaining 2 × 1 surface converting entirely into 5 × 5 structure. It is argued that the 5 × 5 structure is favored over 7 × 7 because it contains the same number of atoms as the 2 × 1 structure. Kinetic measurements of the transformation rate as a function of time and temperature have been performed, for temperatures in the range 280–425 °C. An overall activation energy of 2.1 ± 0.5 eV is obtained.
The Mixed Generation Classroom: What Does the Research Tell Us?

Today I attended a luncheon for the Executive Committee of the University of Georgia’s Teaching Academy (TA). The Teaching Academy is comprised of faculty members who have automatic invitations to membership by virtue of their recognition with a university-level teaching award and those faculty members who have been nominated by a dean or department chair (and then selected by the TA membership committee) for outstanding teaching in a specific college or school. Eight to ten faculty members are invited into membership each year. Founded in 1999, the UGATeaching Academy emerged from the initiative of the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching to foster a national network of teaching academies. The UGA academy conducts a mentoring program for early-career faculty members, plans and coordinates an annual two-day symposium on important institutional issues vis-a-vis teaching and learning, leads workshops, and sponsors other one-time projects to emphasize the importance of the instructional mission in a large, research university. Recently, the academy issued the second edition of “Chalk Talk,” a compendium of short articles on teaching tips penned by many of the most effective instructors on campus. The Academy’s website is maintained by this all-volunteer group; thus, it is streamlined, but still worth a visit: http://teachingacademy.uga.edu/. If your campus does not have a teaching academy, I fully endorse its establishment and would be glad to correspond by email to discuss this undertaking with any interested readers. Now to the real story, the luncheon conversation among the dozen Teaching Academy participants was quite lively. Most were long-time members of the academy (like me), but others were newly inducted and brought new perspectives. The discussion over lunch bounced from topic to topic. What could we do in the fall to celebrate the 15 anniversary of the Academy that would have a lasting impact yet require no new resources (the perennial problem)? How could we recognize the nontenured faculty group, especially lecturers, who are so valuable to the instructional mission of the university yet do not qualify for current institutional-level awards. There was also a sharing of amusing experiences from current and prior courses. During this free-wheeling conversational time, what caught my attention was a story that one of the new inductees shared. It was about the energetic influence by a senior citizen (60+) who was enrolled in her undergraduate course. Other TA members quickly chimed in, and it Innov High Educ (2014) 39:261–262 DOI 10.1007/s10755-014-9301-8
Psychiatric Symptoms and Psychosocial Difficulties in Young Adults with Autistic Traits

A screening version of the social responsiveness scale (SRS) was administered to 1,847 university students to identify a subgroup reporting significantly greater autism traits relative to their peers (High SRS group). A group reporting minimal autism traits was also identified (Low SRS group) matched for age, gender, and attentional difficulties. We administered the Behavioral Assessment System for Children—2nd edition (BASC-2), a comprehensive questionnaire designed to assess psychiatric symptoms and personality characteristics, to both groups. The high SRS group reported significantly more difficulties across the majority of areas, including depression/anxiety, interpersonal relationships, and personal adjustment. Thus, young adults reporting a greater degree of autistic traits also reported greater psychiatric difficulties across a wide psychosocial range.
Selection as an interactive process: the case of Catholic psychoanalysts and psychiatrists.

Abstract This article, drawing on a study of 960 New York City psychiatrists as well as on other studies, focuses on the disproportionately small number of Catholics found in the profession of psychiatry and, especially, psychoanalysis. Analysis of this phenomenon suggests that it is largely the consequence of a complex process involving interaction between self-selection, selection by others, and secondary effects—which themselves entail a number of social and cultural factors. The broader sociological significance of the analysis, regarding the recruitment of minorities to medicine and other occupations, is indicated.
Chronic Hypoxia Diminishes Pregnancy-associated DNA Synthesis in Guinea Pig Uteroplacental Arteries

Abstract Enlargement of the uterine artery (UA) during pregnancy is diminished in women residing at a high altitude. We asked whether chronic hypoxia alters the rise in DNA synthesis in uteroplacental vessels and, if so, whether the reduction is related to the intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) observed under conditions of chronic hypoxia. We used bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) labelling to measure DNA synthesis in all vascular layers of the UA, mesometrial arteries (MA), thoracic aorta and mesenteric artery of guinea pigs, residing throughout pregnancy at a low (1600 m) or high (3962 m) altitude. Pregnancy increased DNA synthesis throughout the UA at both altitudes, yet the maximal value was less at high than low altitude ( P 0.05). Likewise, pregnancy increased DNA synthesis throughout the MA, yet at high altitude pregnancy elevated levels returned to non-pregnant values after 42 days of gestation, whereas at low altitude DNA synthesis continued to be elevated until near term. Fetal weights were lower ( P =0.01) and placental/fetal weight ratios tended to be greater in high than low altitude, near term pups ( P =0.09). We conclude that a diminished growth response by the uteroplacental vasculature to pregnancy may contribute to the previously reported reduced uterine artery blood flow and resulting IUGR at high altitude.
Symmetry of differential optical responses of normal and superconducting phases in single-crystal YBCO

Abstract We measured differential optical reflectivity (DOR) of YBCO single domains. DOR measurements reject the temperature independent bulk reflectivity and reveal dR dT . These measurements detect the superconducting transition, and reveal specific anisotropy associated with high-T c superconductivity.
Integrating microbial ecology into ecosystem models: challenges and priorities

Microbial communities can potentially mediate feedbacks between global change and ecosystem function, owing to their sensitivity to environmental change and their control over critical biogeochemical processes. Numerous ecosystem models have been developed to predict global change effects, but most do not consider microbial mechanisms in detail. In this idea paper, we examine the extent to which incorporation of microbial ecology into ecosystem models improves predictions of carbon (C) dynamics under warming, changes in precipitation regime, and anthropogenic nitrogen (N) enrichment. We focus on three cases in which this approach might be especially valuable: temporal dynamics in microbial responses to environmental change, variation in ecological function within microbial communities, and N effects on microbial activity. Four microbially-based models have addressed these scenarios. In each case, predictions of the microbial-based models differ—sometimes substantially—from comparable conventional models. However, validation and parameterization of model performance is challenging. We recommend that the development of microbial-based models must occur in conjunction with the development of theoretical frameworks that predict the temporal responses of microbial communities, the phylogenetic distribution of microbial functions, and the response of microbes to N enrichment.
Temporal specificity and task alignment: Evidence from patient care

We show how integration solves temporal specificity problems that arise from the misalignment of tasks between organizations and test the predictions of the model, using a large and rich patient-level dataset on hospital discharges to nursing homes and home health care. As predicted by the theory, we find that vertical integration allows hospitals to shift patient recovery tasks downstream to lower cost delivery systems by discharging patients earlier and in poorer health; and integration leads to greater post-hospitalization service intensity. While integration facilitates a shift in the allocation of tasks, health outcomes are no worse when patients receive care from an integrated provider. The evidence suggests that by improving the alignment of tasks to assets, integration solves temporal specificity problems that arise in market exchange.
Special issue – The Learning Society from the Perspective of Governmentality

(2006). Special issue – The Learning Society from the Perspective of Governmentality. Educational Philosophy and Theory: Vol. 38, No. 4, pp. 413-414.
The Significance of Ground-Plane Size and Antenna Location in Establishing the Performance of Ground-Plane-Dependent Antennas

The performance properties of small, multi-band, device-integrated antennas are significantly affected by the ground-plane structure on which they are mounted. In many cases, the time-varying current on the ground plane is the primary source of radiation that determines both the antenna's impedance and radiation-pattern properties. With device-sized or integrated antennas, it is sometimes presumed that the primary factor affecting or establishing the antenna's performance is the significantly reduced size of the ground plane. Here, we consider both the ground plane's size and the location of the antenna on the ground plane in terms of how these factors affect the antenna's performance. We demonstrate that often, it is the location of the antenna and its feeding point on the ground plane, rather than the size of the ground plane itself, that primarily establishes the antenna's performance in terms of its impedance, bandwidth, and radiation mode. We also show that in many cases, the method used to feed the antenna and how the feed couples to the ground plane can be significant factors in establishing the current distribution on the ground plane, and therefore the antenna's performance. We demonstrate these effects for several single and multi-band antenna designs.
The Geochemist’s Involvement with the Pollution Problem

Background levels of lead, zinc, nickel, chromium, copper, and manganese in soils and in four classes of vegetation have been estimated from collections that were made in remote areas presumed to be free from inorganic contamination. The trace-metal content of soils and plants varies widely in different geologic provinces of the US; in those areas of high natural mineralization, additions of metals from man-made pollution may compound a possible hazard. Results of sampling in urban areas show that contamination of vegetation by gasoline lead can be expected for at least 1000 ft back from transportation lanes, and that the lead burden is increasing greatly with time. Ore-treatment plants can also be a source of air contamination for several miles downwind and several thousand feet in other directions. Soils of naturally high metal content in a mining district may be further contaminated with both major and minor elements from smelting operations. Recent studies show that volatile elements are released directly to the air from ore deposits in place. Concentrations of mercury may be as much as 20 times background for several hundred feet in altitude over ore deposits in which mercury occurs as a relatively minor constituent.
Polo-Like Kinase (PLK) Inhibitors in Preclinical and Early Clinical Development in Oncology

Polo-like kinases (PLKs) are a group of highly conserved serine/threonine protein kinases that play a key role in processes such as cell division and checkpoint regulation of mitosis. About 80% of human tumors, of various origins, express high levels of PLK transcripts. However, PLK mRNA is mostly absent in surrounding healthy tissues. Overexpression of PLK is associated with a poor prognosis in several tumor types and a lower overall survival rate. The overexpression of PLKs in human tumors, but not in healthy nondividing cells, makes them an attractive, selective target for cancer drug development. PLK inhibitors interfere with different stages of mitosis, such as centrosome maturation, spindle formation, chromosome separation, and cytokinesis. They induce mitotic chaos and severely perturb cell cycle progression, eventually leading to cancer cell death. Several PLK inhibitors are in development and are undergoing evaluations as potential cancer treatments. This review includes an overview of PLK inhibitors in early clinical development (i.e., BI 2536, BI 6727, GSK461364, ON 019190.Na, and HMN-214) and in advanced preclinical development (i.e., ZK-thiazolidinone, NMS-1, CYC-800, DAP-81, and LC-445). If proof of principle is confirmed in large studies, PLK inhibitors will offer a new targeted antitumor therapy for cancer patients.
Tracing data errors with view-conditioned causality

A surprising query result is often an indication of errors in the query or the underlying data. Recent work suggests using causal reasoning to find explanations for the surprising result. In practice, however, one often has multiple queries and/or multiple answers, some of which may be considered correct and others unexpected. In this paper, we focus on determining the causes of a set of unexpected results, possibly conditioned on some prior knowledge of the correctness of another set of results. We call this problem View-Conditioned Causality. We adapt the definitions of causality and responsibility for the case of multiple answers/views and provide a non-trivial algorithm that reduces the problem of finding causes and their responsibility to a satisfiability problem that can be solved with existing tools. We evaluate both the accuracy and effectiveness of our approach on a real dataset of user-generated mobile device tracking data, and demonstrate that it can identify causes of error more effectively than static Boolean influence and alternative notions of causality.
VHDL as a modeling and simulation platform for optical communication systems and devices

A behavioral model of a wavelength-division multiplexing communication network for transporting data at SONET/SDH OC-192 using VHDL is described. VHDL simulation results are given for the SONET frame generator, electrical-to-optical conversion, data transporter, and optical-to-electrical conversion. Relative bitdelay, due to wavelength dispersion, between adjacent bits is included in the model of a 10-km transmission link.
Restless legs syndrome: Treatment overview

ABSTRACT Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a neurological movement disorder which affects a significant proportion of the general population. This article reviews the neurochemical basis and diagnosis of RLS, and reviews pharmacologic treatment options for the disorder.
Pavement Smoothness Prediction Based on Fuzzy and Gray Theories

Pavement smoothness has been recognized as one of the measures of pavement performance. In the Mechanistic-Empirical Pavement Design Guide (MEPDG), pavement smoothness indicated by the International Roughness Index (IRI) was predicted based on various distresses using traditional regression analysis approaches. Recognizing the limitations of linear regression method, a Gray Theory-based technique was previously proposed by the authors for the development of pavement smoothness prediction models. In this article, instead of using the conventional least squares method to determine the coefficients for gray prediction models, fuzzy regression method is proposed to solve this gray problem. With pavement IRI and distresses data exported from the Long Term Pavement Performance (LTPP) database, Fuzzy and Gray Model (FGM)-based smoothness predictions are established using influencing factors similar to those in MEPDG. Based on the comparisons among results originated from MEPDG models, conventional GM models, FGM models, and actual LTPP data, it is shown that the Gray Theory-based prediction methods with fuzzy regression for estimating model coefficients provide promising results and are useful for modeling pavement performance.
Optimal power allocation and doppler compensation in cooperative underwater networks using OFDM

We consider a Decode-and-Forward and Amplify-and-Forward cooperative diversity network where a source communicates with a destination with the help of multiple relays. Relay selection among the set of multiple relays has been proposed as a diversity achieving communication protocol in wireless radio networks. The application of cooperative communication protocols to underwater networks using OFDM is considered and a lower bound on the data detection error at the destination is derived using the Hammersley Chapman Robbins Bound. This lower bound is optimized to jointly determine the optimal power allocation for the relay nodes and Doppler compensation factor at the destination. Numerical results suggest that while relay selection and subsequent Doppler compensation is optimal in most cases, jointly optimizing the power allocation to the relays and the Doppler compensation factor at the destination is the best strategy when several relays have links of comparable strength to the destination.
Astrocyte hypoxic response is essential for pathological but not developmental angiogenesis of the retina

Vascular/parenchymal crosstalk is increasingly recognized as important in the development and maintenance of healthy vascularized tissues. The retina is an excellent model in which to study the role of cell type-specific contributions to the process of blood vessel and neuronal growth. During retinal vascular development, glial cells such as astrocytes provide the template over which endothelial cells migrate to form the retinal vascular network, and hypoxia-regulated vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has been demonstrated to play a critical role in this process as well as pathological neovascularization. To investigate the nature of cell-specific contributions to this process, we deleted VEGF and its upstream regulators, the hypoxia-inducible transcription factors HIF-1 alpha and HIF-2 alpha, and the negative regulator of HIF alpha, von Hippel-Lindau protein (VHL), in astrocytes. We found that loss of hypoxic response and VEGF production in astrocytes does not impair normal development of retinal vasculature, indicating that astrocyte-derived VEGF is not essential for this process. In contrast, using a model of oxygen-induced ischemic retinopathy, we show that astrocyte-derived VEGF is essential for hypoxia-induced neovascularization. Thus, we demonstrate that astrocytes in the retina have highly divergent roles during developmental, physiological angiogenesis, and ischemia-driven, pathological neovascularization.
An 8-bit 2.5 gigasample A/D converter multichip module for all-digital radar receiver for AN/APS 145 radar on Navy E2-C Airborne Early Warning Aircraft

This paper will discuss multichip module (MCM) technology as it is applied to a prototype high performance direct digitizing channelized radar receiver system under development for the Navy's E2-C Airborne Early Warning Aircraft, which encompasses both analog signals at UHF frequencies and multi-gigahertz digital signals. Critical issues which arise in the design of such a system will be discussed, including thermal management, transmission line, voltage standing wave ratio, and simultaneous switching noise analyses. This paper will also describe the various simulation and analysis software tools employed in the development of the MCM containing the analog-to-digital converter (A/D converter) and demultiplexer for this system, and the roles of these tools in providing insight into the design of the MCM.
Apolipoprotein E in the genetics and epidemiology of Alzheimer's disease

The role of apolipoprotein E (ApoE) alleles and isoforms in the etiology and pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease is discussed. The possibility that ApoE itself is not involved in the disease pathogenesis but is merely in genetic disequilibrium with the real locus is discussed and dismissed. The data showing that the epsilon 4 allele is associated with an increased risk of developing the disease and with an earlier onset age are reviewed. The data showing that, at least in some circumstances, the epsilon 2 allele is associated with a decrease in the risk of developing the disease, and with a later onset age are also reviewed. Data from the genetic analysis of other disorders are reviewed and presented, and it is suggested that the genetic data support the notion that the role of ApoE in the etiology of the disease directly relates to beta-amyloid deposition and plaque formation. This suggestion is in concordance with the most likely mechanism for the role of beta-amyloid precursor protein gene mutations as other risk factors for the disease.
An Evaluation of Equine Sperm Chromatin After Exposure to Ambient Heat Stress

Abstract Several studies have evaluated the effects of excessive heat stress on chromatin damage; however, DNA damage due to ambient seasonal heat stress has yet to be evaluated. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effects of natural heat stress on equine sperm chromatin structure by means of two tests: the sperm chromatin structure assay (SCSA) and Sperm-Halomax kit (Halo). Stallion semen samples were collected after a period of excessive heat load (31.05°C) and were compared with samples collected at lower ambient temperatures (14.26°C) to evaluate chromatin damage caused by ambient heat stress produced in the testes. The data indicate that there is no correlation between the SCSA and Halo assays ( r = 0.18 and F = 0.48). Additionally, no correlation for ambient heat stress was observed for any of the applied techniques—SCSA, Halo, and live:dead staining ( P = .2682, .4628, and .0377, respectively). These results suggest that ambient heat load has little effect on stallion chromatin damage. Other elements, such as relative humidity and heat index, were outside the realm of this study and should be assessed in future studies with a larger sample size.
Investigations into the Origin(s) of the Freshwater Attractant(s) of the American Eel

Anguillid eels are thought to spawn in mid-ocean gyres and after spending a year or more as drifting larvae metamorphose into elvers (juveniles). Elvers possess a strong tendency to swim into fresh water. As this tendency is not shown by olfactory-ablated animals (Hain, 1975), or in charcoal-filtered, aged, or well water (Creutzberg, 1961; Miles, 1968) a chemical attractant is thought responsible. Because elvers do not consistently prefer the water from which they were collected the attractant is thought to be innately recognized (Miles, 1968). Teichmann (1957) showed eels to detect odorants at concentrations of 1:2.9 × 10−18 molar, giving them the best sense of smell among the fishes.
Spectral-Temporal Receptive Fields of Nonlinear Auditory Neurons Obtained Using Natural Sounds

The stimulus-response function of many visual and auditory neurons has been described by a spatial-temporal receptive field (STRF), a linear model that for mathematical reasons has until recently been estimated with the reverse correlation method, using simple stimulus ensembles such as white noise. Such stimuli, however, often do not effectively activate high-level sensory neurons, which may be optimized to analyze natural sounds and images. We show that it is possible to overcome the simple-stimulus limitation and then use this approach to calculate the STRFs of avian auditory forebrain neurons from an ensemble of birdsongs. We find that in many cases the STRFs derived using natural sounds are strikingly different from the STRFs that we obtained using an ensemble of random tone pips. When we compare these two models by assessing their predictions of neural response to the actual data, we find that the STRFs obtained from natural sounds are superior. Our results show that the STRF model is an incomplete description of response properties of nonlinear auditory neurons, but that linear receptive fields are still useful models for understanding higher level sensory processing, as long as the STRFs are estimated from the responses to relevant complex stimuli.
Teaching DSP using Matlab

This paper presents an approach to teaching discrete-time (or digital) signal processing (DSP) using specially designed exercises to be done on modern workstations. The interactive programming, high speed calculations, and versatile graphics of the software system, Matlab, has proven particularly effective and an exercise book has been published to be used in a variety of DSP courses. While discussed here in terms of the FFT and filter design, the ideas should be applicable to all of applied mathematical science, and engineering. It should make the transition from class room learning to self learning more natural and comfortable. Example exercises are given and discussed. >
Standardized Hypnosis Treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome: The North Carolina Protocol

The North Carolina protocol is a seven-session hypnosis-treatment approach for irritable bowel syndrome that is unique in that the entire course of treatment is designed for verbatim delivery. The protocol has been tested in two published research studies and found to benefit more than 80% of patients. This article describes the development, content, and testing of the protocol, and how it is used in clinical practice.
Spatio-temporal template discovery using rough set theory

Real-time stream data is characterized by spatial and temporal variability and is subject to unbounded or constantly evolving entities. The challenge is how to aggregate these unbounded data streams at different spaces and times to provide effective decisions making in real-time. This paper proposes a rough set-based sliding window framework for stream data aggregation. Based on current data streams, it identifies interesting spatio-temporal patterns, and generates rough set If … Then decision rules. Proposed formalism has been tested on sea surface temperature data from NOAA's TAO/TRITON project. Such a pattern-based data aggregation scheme has the potential to significantly reduce data communications in decision making.