cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Perceptions of U.S. and Canadian Cannabis Package Warnings Among U.S. Adults.

Abstract Background Cannabis warning labels can communicate risks, but there is little research on warning perceptions and differences by product type. Methods In a 2019 online survey, 1,000 U.S. adults (500 cannabis users and 500 cannabis non-users who used tobacco) were randomly assigned to view no warning or one of four U.S. or Canadian warnings displayed on images of packaging for dried flower or edible cannabis. The warnings described cannabis risks related to psychosis, addiction, lack of FDA oversight, and impaired driving. We used linear regression to examine perceptions of warnings and product harm as a function of product type (dried or edible) and warning. We examined which warning participants selected as most effective for discouraging youth use and impaired driving. Results Participants found the addiction warning (cannabis users: B = −1.04, p Conclusions Warnings have the potential to educate consumers and impact cannabis harm perceptions. Warnings have similar effects across product types, potentially eliminating the need for product type-specific warnings. The association of cannabis use with risk for psychosis, a topic addressed in Canadian warnings, could be a useful topic of focus in U.S. warnings.
Cardiac arrhythmias during exercise testing in healthy men.

Clinically healthy male executives who participate in a long-term physical conditioning program have demonstrated cardiac arrhythmia during and after periodic ergometric testing at submaximal and maximal levels. In 1,385 tests on 248 subjects, it was found that 34% of subjects demonstrated an arrhythmia at some time and 13% of subjects developed arrhythmia on more than one test. Premature systoles of ventricular origin were most common, but premature systoles of atrial origin, premature systoles of junctional origin, paroxysmal atrial tachycardia, atrioventricular block, wandering pacemaker, and pre-excitation were also seen. Careful post-test monitoring and pulse rate regulated training sessions are suggested for such programs.
Using Visual and Digital Imagery to Quantify Horn Fly(Diptera: Muscidae) Densities

The horn fly, Haematobia irritans L. (Diptera: Muscidae), is a persistent pest of cattle globally. A threshold of 200 flies per animal is considered the standard management goal; however, determining when that threshold has been exceeded is difficult using visual estimates that tend to overestimate the actual fly densities and are, at best, subjective. As a result, a more reliable and durable method of determining horn fly densities is needed. Here, we describe the methods commonly used to quantify horn fly densities including visual estimates and digital photography, and provide examples of quantification software and the prospect for computer automation methods.
Sharing genetic test results with family members of BRCA, PALB2, CHEK2, and ATM carriers

Abstract Objective This study explored motivators and challenges/barriers to sharing personal genetic test results (GTR) with family members (FM). Methods Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with 62 women who had a pathogenic or likely pathogenic (P/LP) variant in aBRCA, PALB2, CHEK2, or ATM gene. Selective qualitative data analysis focused on eliciting motivators and challenges/barriers identified by participants when sharing their GTR with FM. Results Motivators to sharing personal GTR with FM included: health protection and prevention; moral obligation; decisional empowerment; familial ties; written resources; and contextualization for a familial cause for cancer. Challenges/barriers to family sharing included: concern for FM reactions; complexities of information; lack of closeness; perceived relevance; and emotional impact. Conclusions All motivators and challenges/barriers were identified across BRCA and non-BRCA carriers, demonstrating commonalities in family sharing of GTR among high- to moderate-penetrance hereditary BC (breast cancer) genes. Despite challenges/barriers, participants disclosed their GTR with most close FM, yet restrictions in communication and/or strain on the timing, manner of disclosing, and strategies used varied across certain FM. Practice implications These findings offer healthcare providers and researchers preliminary practical implications for broadly improving family sharing interventions across P/LP variants in BC risk genes by demonstrating important elements to include in family sharing letters.
Target reliability index optimization framework for multiple building classes based on community-level objectives

Abstract The impact of a disaster is spread over a region and thus the corresponding risks can be managed effectively by carefully considering the community impact. Since structural design codes regulate the safety levels of structures, it is appropriate to consider a community-level objective in the determination of the safety levels stipulated in the structural design codes. However, evaluating community disaster impact requires consideration of loss interdependency among different buildings, which could be a complex task. Furthermore, implementing a community-level objective to design safety level determination requires the establishment of feasible methods to calculate it in a reasonable time. This paper develops a simple and viable framework for community-level objective-based design safety target optimization for multiple building classes subjected to seismic hazard. To reduce the computation cost, the framework employs an efficient procedure of using an artificial neural network to approximate the seismic response of buildings with common characteristics (occupancy use, and type and size of lateral resisting system). The methodology is illustrated for optimizing the target reliability indices of office and hospital building classes exposed to seismic hazard, with minimizing regional economic cost as objective. Simple loss and interdependency models are used for this illustration due to lack of available complex models, which can be replaced by more recent and complex models to improve accuracy of the analysis once they become available.
Biased Benevolence: The Perceived Morality of Effective Altruism Across Social Distance.

Is altruism always morally good, or is the morality of altruism fundamentally shaped by the social opportunity costs that often accompany helping decisions? Across four studies, we reveal that in c...
On the Structure of ρ-Best Response Sets in Monotone Games

The notion of a p-best-response (p-BR) set was developed in order to relax some of the stringent epistemic requirements for the emergence of equilibrium play. Although this concept has clear conceptual advantages, one drawback of non-fixed point approaches is the loss of computational tractability in all but the simplest of settings. We show that when best-response correspondences are monotone, "exact" p- best response sets (exact p-BR) and p-minimal bestresponse (p-MBR) sets, as developed in Tercieux (2006), can be solved for as the Nash equilibria of an auxiliary game, so that traditional optimization methods may still be applied. As a result, we are able to state necessary and sufficient conditions for a set to be a p-MBR set. We also show that in the case of GSC, the set of exact p-BR sets is a complete lattice, but is completely unordered if at least one player's payoffs exhibit strict strategic substitutes. Examples are given.
The Mathematics of Soap Films: Explorations with Maple®

Surface tension A quick trip through differential geometry and complex variables The mathematics of soap films The calculus of variations and shape Maple, soap films and minimal surfaces Bibliography Index.
Beneficence and Moral Requirements

One task of moral theory is to specify criteria for the correct application of moral concepts, and thereby to provide bases for sound moral appraisals. As I noted in my introductory remarks, the proper objects of moral appraisal include both acts and persons; and since this book is concerned with the extent to which appraisals of either kind rest on other-interested considerations, something needs to be said about the nature of act--and of person-appraisals--and particularly about certain differences which can be drawn between and within the two categories.
Prenatal and postnatal energetic conditions and sex steroids levels across the first year of life.

Objectives Human biologists have documented variability in reproductive maturation, fertility, and cancer risk related to developmental conditions. Yet no previous studies have directly examined the impact of prenatal and postnatal energetic environments on sex steroids in infancy, a critical period for hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis development. Thus, we examined the impact of maternal characteristics, birth size, and feeding practices on fecal sex steroid production in a longitudinal sample of 31 American infants followed from 2 weeks to 12 months of age. Methods Maternal characteristics and birth size were collected at study enrollment, infant diet was assessed through weekly 24-h food diaries, and anthropometrics were measured weekly. Fecal estradiol and testosterone levels were assessed weekly using validated microassay RIA techniques. Mixed models were used to test for associations between maternal and birth characteristics, feeding practices, and sex steroids across the first year of life. Formal mediation analysis examined whether the relationship between infant feeding and hormone levels was mediated by infant size. Results Maternal and birth characteristics had persistent effects on fecal sex steroid levels, with taller maternal height and larger birth size associated with lower estradiol levels in girls and higher testosterone levels in boys. Infant diet was also associated with sex steroid levels independently of infant size. Formula feeding was associated with higher estradiol levels in boys and girls and with higher testosterone in girls. Conclusion These results suggest that markers of early energy availability influence sex hormone levels with potential long-term consequences for reproductive development and function. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 25:643–654, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Development of Practical Ceramic Composite Components

Approaches to welding cups and engine valves applications using composites of carbon-based matrices with and without fibers and ceramic coatings are illustrated. The metal inert gas (MIG) cup trials showed that a CVD Si3N4 coating on an appropriate substrate outperformed any monolithic material in minimizing splatter adherence and erosion. CVD gave a faceted crystalline polycrystalline Si3N4 and hence a fairly rough coating. For a roughly estimated CVD coating cost of 25 cents per cup, coated carbon-based cups would be far cheaper than monolithic Si3N4 cups, yet would perform better. A carbon-based fiber composite shows promising potential for valve applications. In contrast to Si3N4, it offers about one-third lower density for possible further performance improvement for gasoline engines and for reducing costs of valve springs. 2 refs.
Factores derivados de los laboratorios intrahospitalarios que provocan estrés en los estudiantes de enfermería

2 Estudio transversal, cuantitativo, correlacional con analisis descriptivo, cuyo objetivo fue conocer los factores derivados de los laboratorios intrahospitalarios que inciden en la aparicion de estres en 129 estudiantes de Enfermeria, que contestaron los cuestionarios Escala Hamilton y KEZKAK. Los datos fueron procesados con el programa Microsoft Excel, segun los resultados: el 100% presenta Estres. Ansiedad, tension e insomnio, aparecen con mayor porcentaje. Los Factores Competencias del alumno: "cometer errores en su trabajo y perjudicar al paciente", y en Docente: "recibir ordenes contradictorias" son los que presentan mayor frecuencia, siendo el Docente el predominante en la aparicion de estres. Se concluye que es necesario adecuar las tutorias docentes en las practicas clinicas, dando mayor enfasis al apoyo que debera prestarse al alumno, con el fin de disminuir el estres y favorecer el aprendizaje. Quantitative, correlation cross-sectional study with descriptive analysis, whose objective was to assess the factors derived from the intra-hospitable laboratories that affect the stress appearance in Infirmary students. The sample consisted of 129 students, which voluntarily acceded to answer questionnaires Evaluative Scale de Hamilton for the Anxiety, validated in 2003, and Questionnaire KEZKAK, both adapted by the investigating group. The obtained data was processed through Microsoft Excel program, appearing: the 100% of the students presented Stress. From the manifestations of Stress, the tensional anxiety and insomnia appear with the biggest percentages. From the Stress producing Factors, in Student's competitions: "having errors on its work and harming the patient", and in the Educational "receiving contradictory orders" are the ones that present greater frequency of intensity, being the Educational factor the preponderant in the appearance of stress. One concludes that is necessary to adapt the educational positions of a guardian in the clinical practices given greater emphasis to the support that will have to be lend to student, with the purpose of diminishing stress an favoring the learning.
A View of Flexible Fuel Vehicle Aldehyde Emissions

The aldehyde emissions of 1.6L and 5.0L flexible fuel vehicles (FFV) have been measured, with and without a catalyst, on a range of fuels. The zero mile catalyzed emission levels of formaldehyde when operating on M85 (85% methanol and 15% gasoline) are in the 5-15 mg/mi range, but as mileage accumulates they tend to be in the 30-50 mg/mi range. The feedgas levels are high and appear to correlate with engine displacement. The formaldehyde and methanol emissions are higher when operating on M100, compared to M85, but the non-oxygenated hydrocarbon emissions are about the same for both fuels, which suggests that the use of M85 may actually provide more air quality benefit than M100. High mileage control of aldehydes to the level of gasoline vehicles does not appear possible with current technology.
Infant globular clusters.

Globular clusters--compact assemblies of stars that typically contain ~100,000 to ~1,000,000 stars--are relics from the time when galaxies first formed. In her Perspective, [Johnson][1] reviews recent observations of very young clusters in starburst galaxies. The results suggest that we may be observing the birth of globular clusters for the first time. [1]: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/297/5582/776
Batch learning from logged bandit feedback through counterfactual risk minimization

We develop a learning principle and an efficient algorithm for batch learning from logged bandit feedback. This learning setting is ubiquitous in online systems (e.g., ad placement, web search, recommendation), where an algorithm makes a prediction (e.g., ad ranking) for a given input (e.g., query) and observes bandit feedback (e.g., user clicks on presented ads). We first address the counterfactual nature of the learning problem (Bottou et al., 2013) through propensity scoring. Next, we prove generalization error bounds that account for the variance of the propensity-weighted empirical risk estimator. In analogy to the Structural Risk Minimization principle of Wapnik and Tscherwonenkis (1979), these constructive bounds give rise to the Counterfactual Risk Minimization (CRM) principle. We show how CRM can be used to derive a new learning method--called Policy Optimizer for Exponential Models (POEM)--for learning stochastic linear rules for structured output prediction. We present a decomposition of the POEM objective that enables efficient stochastic gradient optimization. The effectiveness and efficiency of POEM is evaluated on several simulated multi-label classification problems, as well as on a real-world information retrieval problem. The empirical results show that the CRM objective implemented in POEM provides improved robustness and generalization performance compared to the state-of-the-art.
Facial expression recognition and histograms of oriented gradients: a comprehensive study.

Automatic facial expression recognition (FER) is a topic of growing interest mainly due to the rapid spread of assistive technology applications, as human–robot interaction, where a robust emotional awareness is a key point to best accomplish the assistive task. This paper proposes a comprehensive study on the application of histogram of oriented gradients (HOG) descriptor in the FER problem, highlighting as this powerful technique could be effectively exploited for this purpose. In particular, this paper highlights that a proper set of the HOG parameters can make this descriptor one of the most suitable to characterize facial expression peculiarities. A large experimental session, that can be divided into three different phases, was carried out exploiting a consolidated algorithmic pipeline. The first experimental phase was aimed at proving the suitability of the HOG descriptor to characterize facial expression traits and, to do this, a successful comparison with most commonly used FER frameworks was carried out. In the second experimental phase, different publicly available facial datasets were used to test the system on images acquired in different conditions (e.g. image resolution, lighting conditions, etc.). As a final phase, a test on continuous data streams was carried out on-line in order to validate the system in real-world operating conditions that simulated a real-time human–machine interaction.
The electrical conductivity of ammonium perchlorate single crystals

The electrical conductivity of single crystals of ammonium perchlorate has been studied from 25 to 180°C. Plots of log σT vs 1T show two linear regions, one from 25 to 100 and another from 100 to 180°C. Activation energies for the conduction processes in the low- and high-temperature regions are 0.12 and 1.04 eV, respectively. The conduction is a bulk process and not a surface mechanism. Conduction in the low-temperature region is predominantly due to the migration of protons and is sensitive to the concentration of interstitial H2O molecules which act as proton donor and acceptor sites. In the high-temperature region, conduction is due to migration of NH4+ through cation vacancies. Detailed mechanisms are postulated both for electrical conduction and for the electrode reactions.
Holographic algorithms: guest column

Leslie Valiant recently proposed a theory of holographic algorithms. These novel algorithms achieve exponential speed-ups for certain computational problems compared to naive algorithms for the same problems. The methodology uses Pfaffians and (planar) perfect matchings as basic computational primitives, and attempts to create exponential cancellations in computation. In this article we survey this new theory of matchgate computations and holographic algorithms.
Optimal correlation filters for images with signal-dependent noise

We address the design of optimal correlation filters for pattern detection and recognition in the presence of signal-dependent image noise sources. The particular examples considered are film-grain noise and speckle. Two basic approaches are investigated: (1) deriving the optimal matched filters for the signal-dependent noise models and comparing their performances with those derived for traditional signal-independent noise models and (2) first nonlinearly transforming the signal-dependent noise to signal-independent noise followed by the use of a classical filter matched to the transformed signal. We present both theoretical and computer simulation results that demonstrate the generally superior performance of the second approach in terms of the correlation peak signal-to-noise ratio.
Microsomal hydroxylation of aniline in the southern armyworm, Spodoptera eridania

Microsomal hydroxylation of aniline in midguts of the southern armyworm, Spodoptera eridania, was found to differ in its requirements for optimal in vitro activity from those of armyworm and rat liver pchloro N-methylaniline Ndemethylase and rat liver aniline hydroxylase. Apparent K,.values for armyworm aniline hydroxylase were substantially higher than those for rat liver aniline hydroxylase and the Ndemethylaseenzymes. The armyworm aniline hydroxylase wasinhibited by several mixed-function oxidase inhibitors as wellas by aldrin and nicotine and was highly inducible bypentamethylbenzene and phenobarbital.
Military technology: an historical perspective

Abstract Throughout history, nations have endeavored to develop new and more advanced technologies with the goal of achieving military advantage. New technologies resulted in new weapons and brought dramatic change in military tactics. The increase in the destructive power of soldiers in the Civil War and the resulting horror and futility of the frontal assault ushered in a change to trench warfare. The military aircraft, tanks, and the newly developed radio and radar made a new kind of dynamic warfare possible during World War II. World War II ended with a remarkable technological achievement: the development of the atomic bomb. In response, the Soviet Union detonated its first atomic bomb in 1949, followed by their successful test of a hydrogen bomb. By the early-1950s, missile programs were underway in both countries. In the absence of knowledge, the American threat assessments, and therefore the American response, were based on worst-case scenarios. The response of the Soviet Union was also based on their worst-case scenarios. Recognizing the dangers of this arms race in the dark, President Eisenhower authorized the secret development of a new generation of sensors and reconnaissance satellites, the successors of which are still vital to our security. Then, in response to the Soviet quantitative advantage in military forces, the US conceived a new “system of systems” of intelligence sensors, smart weapons and stealth aircraft. These new systems were developed during the late-1970s, produced in the early-1980s, and entered into the force in the late-1980s—just in time for Desert Storm. Today the threat of terrorism and the threat of proliferation are the greatest threats to our security. It seems likely that the American military will remain the dominant military force in the world for the foreseeable future, but this can have unintended consequences. It can lead to a nightmare scenario where a terror group may attack us with weapons of mass destruction. Advanced information technology is critical to countering this threat. There are technological opportunities in all the components of homeland security: intelligence, prevention, protection of infrastructure, detection of attacks, and consequence management. But these improvements will not evolve automatically. It is boldness and single-minded dedication that we must summon to respond to the threat of weapons of mass destruction in our cities. We must mobilize the scientific community as was done in World War II and in the Cold War.
MECHANO-TOPOGRAPHIC MODULATION OF STEM CELL NUCLEAR SHAPE ON NANOFIBROUS SCAFFOLDS

Stem cells transit along a variety of lineage-specific routes towards differentiated phenotypes. These fate decisions are dependent not just on the soluble chemical cues that are encountered or enforced in vivo and in vitro, but also on physical cues from the cellular microenvironment. These physical cues can consist of both nano- and micro-scale topographical features, as well as mechanical inputs provided passively (from the base properties of the materials to which they adhere) or actively (from extrinsic applied mechanical deformations). A suitable tool to investigate the coordination of these cues lies in nanofibrous scaffolds, which can both dictate cellular and cytoskeletal orientation and facilitate mechanical perturbation of seeded cells. Here, we demonstrate a coordinated influence of scaffold architecture (aligned vs. randomly organized fibers) and tensile deformation on nuclear shape and orientation. Sensitivity of nuclear morphology to scaffold architecture was more pronounced in stem cell populations than in terminally differentiated fibrochondrocytes. Tension applied to the scaffold elicited further alterations in nuclear morphology, greatest in stem cells, that were mediated by the filamentous actin cytoskeleton, but not the microtubule or intermediate filament network. Nuclear perturbations were time and direction dependent, suggesting that the modality and direction of loading influenced nuclear architecture. The present work may provide additional insight into the mechanisms by which the physical microenvironment influences cell fate decisions, and has specific application to the design of new materials for regenerative medicine applications with adult stem cells.
A life-span developmental approach to the study of stressful events

Abstract This study examined the relationship between stressful life events and personality development in a sample of middle- and old-aged adults (115 females, 53 males). The general hypothesis was that crises may contribute to personal growth. Variables that might mediate this relationship (i.e., social supports, sense of control, perceived impact, expectancy for and timing of the events) were also investigated. Life stresses were assessed with the Life Experiences Survey, and personality development was measured with four structured scales operationalized from developmental theories. Together these scales dealt with viewing oneself as effective in guiding and influencing others as well as having a sense of integration and meaningfulness about one's life. Findings showed weak to moderate correlations between life stress ratings and personal development scores. The pattern of relationships, however, was consistent. Subjective impact ratings (whether the event was viewed as good or bad) and timing ratings (whether the event was seen as on-time or off-time) were most frequently related to measures of personal development. Sex differences were obtained on several mediating variables but not on the majority of personality development measures. Future research requirements (conceptual and methodological) for studying the relationship between stress and personal development are discussed.
Ion-ion resonances in a magnetized plasma cylinder☆

Abstract Main resonances in a magnetized two ion component plasma cylinder are calculated and discussed.
One Airway, One Disease

The prevalence of asthma and allergic rhinitis is increasing in the general population, and a high proportion of new patients have coexisting upper and lower airway disease. Estimates show that 60 to 78% of patients who have asthma have coexisting allergic rhinitis. During the past decade, our understanding of asthma and allergic rhinitis has evolved. The historic perspective of these allergen-induced disorders as distinct and separate entities is being displaced by current thinking that they are described better as a continuum of inflammation involving one common airway. Therefore, traditional therapies originally indicated for allergic rhinitis and asthma are being reassessed to explore their potential utility in both upper and lower airway diseases. Recently, there has been a renewed interest in the role that histamines play in lower airway disease, and interest is increasing in the theory that leukotrienes, which are far more potent inflammatory mediators than histamines, play a role in upper airway disease. Given the pivotal role that leukotrienes play as potent inflammatory mediators in the pathophysiologic state of inflammation of both airways, leukotriene receptor antagonists recently have emerged as important therapeutic advances that have potential clinical utility in both asthma and allergic rhinitis.
Erring and learning: An organizational analysis

Abstract Organizations learn through their members. But members' learning is bounded by their organizational role. This contention and its implications for intervention is explored through the concept of error. Errors are “recognized”, interpreted; not detected as such. But members' interpretation of data is directed by organizational premises and their structural manifestations. Hence learning from error is restricted to learning within a given set of premises. To make premises themselves subject to continuous examination and change, intervention at the individual level will not suffice.
Efficient and accurate laser shaping with liquid crystal spatial light modulators

A phase-only spatial light modulator (SLM) is capable of precise transverse laser shaping by either functioning as a variable phase grating or by serving as a variable mask via polarization rotation. As a phase grating, the highest accuracy algorithms, based on computer generated holograms (CGHs), have been shown to yield extended laser shapes with 15%. Informed by best practices for high efficiency from a SLM phase grating, we introduce an adaptive refractive algorithm which has high efficiency (92%) but also higher error (16%), for nearly cylindrically symmetric cases.
Decreased cysteine and proline synthesis in parenterally fed, premature infants

Abstract Little is known about the amino acid (AA) biosynthetic capacity and requirements of premature infants. This study assessed the synthesis of seven biochemically nonessential AA from a universal precursor, glucose, in stable, parenterally fed, premature neonates. Seven infants (six boys, one girl) were studied at a mean age of 6.3 ± 0.6 (SEM) days; mean gestational age was 29.7 ± 1.3 (SEM) weeks, and mean birth weight was 1,222.8 ± 176.5 (SEM) grams. All infants were parenterally fed a mixture of 7.5% to 12.5% dextrose and 2.2% Trophamine, with or without lipid. Mean caloric intake was 93 ± 8.4 (SEM) kcal/kg/d, and total AA intake was standardized at 2.86 g/kg/d AA, plus supplemental cysteine (30 mg/g AA/d). Each infant received a 4-hour continuous, unprimed intravenous infusion of a stable isotope tracer of D-[U 13 C] glucose (200 mg/kg). Blood samples were obtained before and at the end of the infusion. Conversion of the glucose tracer into seven biochemically nonessential AA (cysteine [Cys], proline [Pro], aspartate [Asp], serine [Ser], glutamate [Glu], alanine [Ala], and glycine [Gly]) was assessed by measuring their isotopic enrichment in plasma, using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GCMS), and expressed as mole percent excess (MPE) (mean ± SEM). The isotopic enrichment of plasma glucose was also measured using GCMS. Free plasma AA concentrations (mean ± SD) were measured using an automated amino acid analyzer. Mean MPE for M + 1, M + 2 and M + 3 Cys, and for M + 1 and M + 3 Pro were not significantly different from 0; M + 2 Pro barely achieved statistical significance ( P = .048). In contrast, there was significant ( P P = .06). The mean free plasma Cys concentration (29.2 ± 13.4 μmol/L) was five-fold lower than the published value for term infants (153 ± 25.5 μmol/L), despite supplementation. Detectable enrichment of all glucose isotopomers confirmed precursor incorporation into the glycolytic/gluconeogenic pathways; the M + 6 isotopomer (precursor) enrichment was 6.87 ± 0.53 MPE. These results provide in vivo evidence to suggest that Cys and Pro are essential amino acids in parenterally fed, premature neonates.
Dynamics of the Ge(111)c(2 x 8) surface studied by scanning tunneling microscopy

Abstract The scanning tunneling microscope (STM) is used to study the disordering of the Ge(111)c(2 × 8) surface, at temperatures in the range 150–350°C. The disorder occurs by the diffusion of surface adatoms in the 〈01 1 〉 directions. Disordered regions form at domain boundaries of the c(2 × 8) structure, and grow in size continuously with temperature until the entire surface becomes disordered at about 300°C. This order-disorder transition is identified as an example of premelting in two dimensions, i.e., edge melting. Analysis of relatively large STM images is used to obtain statistics for this continuous phase transition.
Clustered Organization of Reproductive Genes in the C. elegans Genome

Abstract Defining the forces that sculpt genome organization is fundamental for understanding the origin, persistence, and diversification of species [1, 2]. The genomic sequences of the nematodes Caenorhabditis elegans and Caenorhabditis briggsae provide an excellent opportunity to explore the dynamics of chromosome evolution [3, 4]. Extensive chromosomal rearrangement has accompanied divergence from their common ancestor, an event occurring roughly 100 million years ago (Mya) [4]; yet, morphologically, these species are nearly indistinguishable and both reproduce primarily by self-fertilization. Here, we show that genes expressed during spermatogenesis (sperm genes) are nonrandomly distributed across the C. elegans genome into three large clusters located on two autosomes. In addition to sperm genes, these chromosomal regions are enriched for genes involved in the hermaphrodite sperm/oocyte switch and in the reception of sperm signals that control fertilization. Most loci are present in single copy, suggesting that cluster formation is largely due to gene aggregation and not to tandem duplication. Comparative mapping indicates that the C. briggsae genome differs dramatically from the C. elegans genome in clustering. Because clustered genes have a direct role in reproduction and thus fitness, their aggregated pattern might have been shaped by natural selection, perhaps as hermaphroditism evolved.
Coordinating context building in heterogeneous information systems

We present an architecture to coordinate the construction of the context within which meaningful information between heterogeneous information systems can be exchanged. We call this coordinator SCOPES (Semantic Coordinator Over Parallel Exploration Spaces). A classification of semantic conflicts we proposed elsewhere is used to build and refine the context, by discovering the semantic mapping rules (inter-schema correspondence assertions) between corresponding elements of the communicating systems. A truth maintenance system is used to manage the multiple intermediate contexts. It provides a mechanism to infer or retract assertions on the basis of the knowledge acquired during the reconciliation process. This nonmonotonic technique is used in conjunction with the Dempster-Shafer theory of belief functions to model the likelihood of alternative contexts. Finally, we propose an algorithm which illustrates how the various components of the architecture interact with one another in order to build context.
Computational stress analysis of atherosclerotic plaques in ApoE knockout mice.

The aortic sinus lesions of apolipoprotein E knockout (ApoE KO) mice seldom show any signs of fibrous cap disruption, whereas cap ruptures have been recently reported in the proximal part of their brachiocephalic arteries (BCA). We use histology based finite element analysis to evaluate peak circumferential stresses in aortic and BCA lesions from six 42–56 week-old fat-fed ApoE KO mice. This analysis is able to both explain the greater stability of aortic lesions in mice and provide new insight into the BCA lesion as a model for the stability of human lesions with and without microcalcifications in their fibrous caps. The predicted average peak stress in fibrous caps of aortic lesions of 205.8 kPa is significantly lower than the average value of maximum stresses of 568.8 kPa in BCA caps. The aortic plaque stresses only slightly depend on the cap thickness, while BCA lesions demonstrate an exponential growth of peak cap stresses with decreasing cap thickness similar to human vulnerable plaques. Murine BCA ruptured lesions with mean cap thickness of 2 μm show stresses ≈1400 kPa, three times higher than human ruptured plaques with a mean cap thickness of 23 μm without microcalcifications in the cap, but nearly identical to the peak stress around an elongated microcalcification with aspect ratio 2 in a human thin cap ≈50 μm thick. We predict biomechanical stress patterns in mouse BCA close to human vulnerable plaques without microcalcification in the cap, while aortic lesions show stress tendency similar to stable lesions in human.
Blue: a database for high-fold γ-ray coincidence data

Abstract Optimal sensitivity in large HPGe γ-ray spectrometers such as Gammasphere and Euroball is achieved with 4-fold γ-ray coincidences or higher. Analysis of coincidence data at these folds is difficult as storage constraints make histogram-based techniques impractical. To address the problem of efficient storage of and access to high-fold coincidence data we have developed Blue , a specialized database program. Each coincidence event in this database is stored in its native fold eliminating statistical artifacts which can be introduced by unfolding a high-fold event to several lower-fold events. Partition of the dataset is based on the density distribution of coincidence events which makes data access efficient. A simple yet flexible query system is implemented by using a tree-like index for these partitions. This program is capable of executing a variety of queries, such as taking gates on a multi-fold database, at timescales which are interactive (s) or near-interactive (min). Simple compression techniques are employed so that databases with sizes of 10 9 coincidences can easily be stored in a space of 10 Gb or less.
Adolescents and child maltreatment.

Child maltreatment is a very complex medical and social problem. Many children have died as a result of child maltreatment; others are depressed, engaging in risky behaviors and substance abuse and running away from home. The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of child maltreatment in the United States. Characteristics and contributing factors of maltreatment are described, and health and behavior problems associated with maltreated adolescents will be reviewed. Additionally the role of the school nurse will be discussed. It is imperative that school nurses are aware of the significance of the problem and the effects that child maltreatment has on children as they mature into early adulthood. Language: en
Fabrication of a nanophotonic quantum dot waveguide and photodetector integrated device

The authors present the design and fabrication of a nanophotonic waveguide and photodetector integrated device by molecular self-assembly of nanocrystal quantum dots (QD) and two different nano-gap formation techniques, namely electromigration-induced break-junction technique and electron beam lithography nano-gap patterning. A QD waveguide with ∼50 nm width integrated with a nano-scale QD photodetector is achieved. A comparison is made between the two nano-gap techniques. In addition, a method to achieve high alignment accuracy for nanophotonic integration is discussed.
Toward fully automated processing of dynamic susceptibility contrast perfusion MRI for acute ischemic cerebral stroke

We developed fully automated software for dynamic susceptibility contrast (DSC) MR perfusion-weighted imaging (PWI) to efficiently and reliably derive critical hemodynamic information for acute stroke treatment decisions. Brain MR PWI was performed in 80 consecutive patients with acute nonlacunar ischemic stroke within 24h after onset of symptom from January 2008 to August 2009. These studies were automatically processed to generate hemodynamic parameters that included cerebral blood flow and cerebral blood volume, and the mean transit time (MTT). To develop reliable software for PWI analysis, we used computationally robust algorithms including the piecewise continuous regression method to determine bolus arrival time (BAT), log-linear curve fitting, arrival time independent deconvolution method and sophisticated motion correction methods. An optimal arterial input function (AIF) search algorithm using a new artery-likelihood metric was also developed. Anatomical locations of the automatically determined AIF were reviewed and validated. The automatically computed BAT values were statistically compared with estimated BAT by a single observer. In addition, gamma-variate curve-fitting errors of AIF and inter-subject variability of AIFs were analyzed. Lastly, two observes independently assessed the quality and area of hypoperfusion mismatched with restricted diffusion area from motion corrected MTT maps and compared that with time-to-peak (TTP) maps using the standard approach. The AIF was identified within an arterial branch and enhanced areas of perfusion deficit were visualized in all evaluated cases. Total processing time was 10.9+/-2.5s (mean+/-s.d.) without motion correction and 267+/-80s (mean+/-s.d.) with motion correction on a standard personal computer. The MTT map produced with our software adequately estimated brain areas with perfusion deficit and was significantly less affected by random noise of the PWI when compared with the TTP map. Results of image quality assessment by two observers revealed that the MTT maps exhibited superior quality over the TTP maps (88% good rating of MTT as compared to 68% of TTP). Our software allowed fully automated deconvolution analysis of DSC PWI using proven efficient algorithms that can be applied to acute stroke treatment decisions. Our streamlined method also offers promise for further development of automated quantitative analysis of the ischemic penumbra.
Unit analysis of mesencephalic reticular formation control of spinal cord neurons.

Abstract 1. 1. The cervical cord of the locally anesthetized and immobilized cat was explored with a microelectrode for neurons whose rates of spontaneous or evoked discharges were influenced by brainstem reticular formation stimulation. 2. 2. Four patterns of response were found: (a) the discharge rate of the unit was not affected; (b) the unit was driven by high rates of electrical stimulation of the reticular formation (HFD); (c) the unit was driven by low rates of stimulation (LFD); (d) the unit was inhibited by high rates of stimulation (HFD). 3. 3. HFD and HFI of spinal cord neurons are probably associated with a long latency multi-synaptic tegmento-bulbo-spinal tract. Low frequency driving (LFD) is probably associated with a short latency rubro-spinal or corticospinal tract. 4. 4. HFD is extremely sensitive to barbiturate depression, HFI much less so (and is probably of a pre-synaptic type) and LFD is the least sensitive. 5. 5. Stimulation of the mesencephalic reticular formation produces a mixture of excitatory and inhibitory impulses feeding onto the interneurons and motoneurons of the spinal cord. The net result is usually, but not always, excitation of spinal cord neurons. 6. 6. It is proposed that the long latency multi-synaptic tegmento-bulbo-spinal system represent an “ and ” circuit such that learned patterns of sensory stimuli can influence spinal reflexes.
Uniqueness of the inverse source problem for quasi-homogeneous, partially coherent sources

The inverse source problem for quasi-homogeneous, partially coherent sources is investigated. Comparisons are made between the formulations for two-dimensional and three-dimensional source distributions. A unified approach is presented herein by considering the two-dimensional source distribution as a three-dimensional distribution with delta-function support in one dimension. It is shown that measurements of the cross-spectral density of the field on a surface enclosing the source are sufficient to reconstruct the unknown source cross-spectral density for two-dimensional sources, while the measurements are insufficient for three-dimensional sources. The use of a priori information and its effect on the uniqueness of the three-dimensional inverse source problem is discussed. In particular, a set of supplemental data and associated inversion algorithm is described that guarantees uniqueness of the three-dimensional inverse and that is less restrictive than the data previously identified. Finally, practical considerations for making the required measurements are discussed.
Air bubble changes from 6–7 kHz ultrasonic exposure in 20°C plain water

Rectified heat and mass transfer in rising air bubbles in water are studied to assess bubble management by insonation, a possibility which might be useful in various applications which use generated air bubbles of comparable size in processes below boiling. A model is presented to predict volume and mass change in ultrasonically insonated 0·2–0·8 mm air bubbles in water. Comparison of model results to experimental data of tracked bubble streams rising at 20–30 cm s−1 shows the model predicts the experimental trends capturing rapid growth and shrinkage as a function of insonation frequency to bubble resonant frequency. Rectified heat and mass transfer in altering bubble size involving only sensible heat is much less than when latent heat is a factor, but it can be significant near a match between the bubble’s resonant frequency and the insonation frequency. Contributing mechanisms for oscillating bubble mass change are examined.
Diffusion of Exchange Energy in Solid He 3

We report a method for determining the rate of diffusion of exchange energy in solid ${\mathrm{He}}^{3}$. Over the temperature range 0.05-0.12\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K, we obtain a temperature-independent diffusion constant ${D}_{E}=(0.75\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.15)J{a}^{2}$, where $a$ is the nearest-neighbor distance and $J$ the exchange integral.
Mechanisms of adrenergic control of sino-atrial node discharge.

Among the mechanisms proposed for the increase in discharge of sino-atrial node (SAN) by norepinephrine (NE) are an increase in the hyperpolarization-activated current I(f) and in the slow inward current I(Ca,L). If I(f) is the primary mechanism, cesium (a blocker of I(f)) should eliminate the positive chronotropic effect of NE. If I(Ca,L), is involved, [Ca(2+)](o) should condition NE effects. We studied the electrophysiological changes induced by NE in isolated guinea pig SAN superfused in vitro with Tyrode solution (both SAN dominant and subsidiary pacemaker mechanisms are present) as well as with high [K(+)](o), higher Cs(+) or Ba(2+) (only the dominant pacemaker mechanism is present). In Tyrode solution, NE (0.5-1microM) increased the SAN rate and adding Cs(+) (approximately 12 mM) caused a decaying voltage tail during diastole in subsidiary pacemakers. NE enhanced the Cs(+)-induced tail, and increased the rate but less than in Tyrode solution. In higher [Cs(+)](o) (15- 18 mM), Ba(2+) (1 mM) or Ba(2+) plus Cs(+) (10 mM) dominant action potentials (not followed by a tail) were present and NE accelerated them as in Tyrode solution. In high [K(+)](o), NE increased the rate in the absence and presence of Cs(+), Ba(2+) or Ba(2+) plus Cs(+). In these solutions, NE increased the overshoot and maximum diastolic potential of dominant action potentials (APs) and increased the rate by steepening diastolic depolarization and shifting the threshold for upstroke to more negative values. High [Ca(2+)](o) alone increased the rate and NE enhanced this action, whereas low [Ca(2+)](o) reduced or abolished the increase in rate by NE. In SAN quiescent in high [K(+)](o) plus indapamide, NE induced spontaneous discharge by decreasing the resting potential and initiating progressively larger voltage oscillations. Thus, NE increases the SAN rate by acting primarily on dominant APs in a manner consistent with an increase of I(Ca,L) and I(K) and under conditions where I(f) is either blocked or not activated. NE INITIATES spontaneous discharge by inducing voltage oscillations unrelated to I(f).
A plane layered model to estimate in situ ultrasound exposures.

Abstract Determination of in situ ultrasound exposures in experimental animals and patients is necessary to assess any potential hazard of ultrasound implied by reported biological effects in animals. A layered model was used to calculate total attenuation of ultrasound pulses as they passed through tissue layers to an organ site, thus enabling calculation of in situ intensities from free-field transducer emissions. The model assumes plane homogeneous layers of tissue of known thickness, attenuation and acoustic impedance. Calculations based on the model, compared with in situ measurements in a human cadaver specimen, were accurate to within ∼ ± 3 dB. We then calculated in situ clinical exposures using published obstetric B-scans. Total attenuation to the fetus averaged ∼ 11 dB at 3.5 MHz.