cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Spectroscopic microvascular blood detection from the endoscopically normal colonic mucosa: biomarker for neoplasia risk.

Background & Aims: We previously used a novel biomedical optics technology, 4-dimensional elastically scattered light fingerprinting, to show that in experimental colon carcinogenesis the predysplastic epithelial microvascular blood content is increased markedly. To assess the potential clinical translatability of this putative field effect marker, we characterized the early increase in blood supply (EIBS) in human beings in vivo. Methods: We developed a novel, endoscopically compatible, polarization-gated, spectroscopic probe that was capable of measuring oxygenated and deoxygenated (Dhb) hemoglobin specifically in the mucosal microcirculation through polarization gating. Microvascular blood content was measured in 222 patients from the endoscopically normal cecum, midtransverse colon, and rectum. If a polyp was present, readings were taken from the polyp tissue along with the normal mucosa 10-cm and 30-cm proximal and distal to the lesion. Results: Tissue phantom studies showed that the probe had outstanding accuracy for hemoglobin determination (r2 = 0.99). Augmentation of microvasculature blood content was most pronounced within the most superficial (∼100 μm) layer and dissipated in deeper layers (ie, submucosa). EIBS was detectable within 30 cm from the lesion and the magnitude mirrored adenoma proximity. This occurred for both oxygenated hemoglobin and DHb, with the effect size being slightly greater for DHb. EIBS correlated with adenoma size and was not engendered by nonneoplastic (hyperplastic) polyps. Conclusions: We show, herein, that in vivo microvascular blood content can be measured and provides an accurate marker of field carcinogenesis. This technological/biological advance has numerous potential applications in colorectal cancer screening such as improved polyp detection and risk stratification.
On The Metaphysics of Probabilistic Causation: Lessons from Social Epidemiology

I argue that the orthodox account of probabilistic causation, on which probabilistic causes determine the probability of their effects, is inconsistent with certain ontological assumptions implicit in scientific practice. In particular, scientists recognize the possibility that properties of populations can cause the behavior of members of the populations. Such emergent population‐level causation is metaphysically impossible on the orthodoxy.
NMR and structural model of dynorphin A (1-17) bound to dodecylphosphocholine micelles.

Dynorphin A (1−17) (dynorphin) acts preferentially and with high affinity at the κ-opioid receptor, for which it is the natural, endogenous ligand. Interest in designing new ligands to interact at the κ-opioid receptor is based in part on the desire to circumvent some of the problems associated with μ-opioid ligands such as morphine. The high-resolution structure of dynorphin in an environment which closely resembles its environment in vivo could be considered as an important lead for new drugs. The interactions that occur between dynorphin and a model membrane are potentially important, as peptide hormone activity is thought to be mediated by interactions with the cell membrane. Therefore, we have determined the high-resolution structures of dynorphin in a model membrane. Results from our laboratory have shown the existence of an α-helical region in dynorphin from residues Gly3 through Arg9 when bound to perdeuterated dodecylphosphocholine (DPC) micelles. In this report we show that dynorphin is bound to...
A new hypothesis regarding ovarian follicle development: ovarian rigidity as a regulator of selection and health

The mammalian ovary consists of a large number of dormant immature follicles, each containing a single oocyte and located on the periphery of the ovary. With each reproductive cycle, a group of immature follicles is sequentially activated to resume growth, and pituitary gonadotropins and ovarian steroid and peptide hormones cooperate to ensure further growth and development. A single dominant follicle eventually emerges, ovulates, and then involutes to allow the selection of the next group of follicles. While hormones are known to control the later stages of folliculogenesis, little is known about the pathways that activate individual immature primordial follicles in the dormant follicle pool. We advance a new hypothesis: that follicle activation is dependent on the physical environment of the ovary in addition to well-established hormonal cues. This novel perspective on ovarian function may provide new avenues to study follicle dynamics and identify therapeutic targets for ovarian dysfunction.
Impaired Bcl3 Up-regulation Leads to Enhanced Lipopolysaccharide-induced Interleukin (IL)-23P19 Gene Expression in IL-10–/– Mice

Genetic and biochemical analyses show that IL-23p19 plays a central role in mediating bacteria-induced colitis in interleukin-10-deficient (IL-10–/–) mice. The molecular mechanisms responsible for the dysregulated innate host response leading to enhanced IL-23 gene expression in IL-10–/– mice are poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the role of Bcl3 in controlling LPS-induced IL-23p19 gene expression in bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDC) isolated from IL-10–/– mice. We report higher IL-23p19 mRNA accumulation and protein secretion in LPS-stimulated BMDC isolated from IL-10–/– compared with WT mice. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced B cell leukemia 3 (Bcl3) expression was strongly impaired (90% decrease) in IL-10–/– BMDC compared with WT BMDC. Chromatin immunoprecipitation demonstrated enhanced RelA binding to the IL-23p19 promoter in IL-10–/– compared with WT BMDC. Bcl3 overexpression decreased LPS-induced IL-23p19 gene expression in IL-10–/– BMDC, which correlated with enhanced NF-κB p50 binding and decreased RelA binding to the gene promoter. Conversely, Bcl3 knockdown enhanced LPS-induced IL-23p19 gene expression in WT BMDC. Moreover, LPS-induced IL-23p19 gene expression was significantly enhanced in Bcl3–/– BMDC compared with WT BMDC. In conclusion, enhanced LPS-induced IL-23p19 gene expression in IL-10–/– mice is due to impaired Bcl3 expression leading to diminished p50 and enhanced RelA recruitment to the IL-23p19 promoter.
Effect of subacute administration of human growth hormone on various serum lipid and hormone levels of hypercholesterolemic and normocholesterolemic subjects

Abstract Six hypercholesterolemic and five normocholesterolemic subjects were injected twice daily with human growth hormone for 7 days. During HGH administration, the average serum cholesterol of both types of subjects fell significantly, and their serum triglyceride levels increased. Peak insulin responses to glucose also increased. However, no change occurred in the serum phospholipid, FFA, cortisol, or thyroxine concentrations during HGH treatment.
Biodiversity conservation: Does phylogeny matter?

To conserve biodiversity, it is necessary not only to maximize the number of taxa that are saved today, but also to guarantee the maintenance of high levels of biological diversity in the future. A recent analysis argues that, to achieve this, consideration of phylogeny is essential.
Generators of Central Simple Algebras

Abstract LetAbe a finite-dimensional central simple algebra and letkbe a subfield of its centerZ(A). We say thatz1,…,zmgenerateAas a central simple algebra overkifA = S − 1k[z1,…,zm], whereS = k[z1,…,zm] ∩ Z(A)*. In this paper we give a necessary and sufficient condition forAto be generated bymelements as a central simple algebra overk.
Asymptotics of singular numbers of smooth kernels via trigonometric transforms

(1.1) The fact that the trigonometric Fourier sequence {f(n)} of a continuous 2x-periodic functionfneed not behave better at infinity, in any evident way, than the Fourier sequences of the most general functions in L* has engaged the attention of a number of prominent mathematicians (culminating, perhaps, with de Leeuw et al. [ 191, who proved that every I, sequence is dominated by the trigonometric transform of a continuous periodic function). Particularly striking is the contrast of this fact with the gradually improving behavior of If(n)/ that we perceive (Hausdorff-Young theorem) as we focus upon increasingly exclusive Lp spaces with 1 d p d 2. Moreover, when we pass beyond continuity and restrict our attention to Lipschitz classes we encounter gradualism once again. In this regard Bernstein is responsible for the prototypal theorem [60, p. 2431:
Collection, storage and application of human knowledge in expert system development

: Expert systems are programs that analyze data by mimicking the thought processes of an expert. Two expert systems were developed by the Reservoir Evaluation and Advanced Computational Techniques group to aid in oil prospecting for two New Mexico formations, leading to the development of a third customizable fuzzy expert system. Knowledge engineering is a major part of the development of these expert systems, in which expert knowledge is solicited, analyzed, converted to rules stored in a system's knowledge base, and used by the computer to produce expert judgment. Numerical versions of the rules are used to analyze data and produce an evaluation of the user's prospect. In addition, the knowledge base preserves expert knowledge for future workers. This is especially important in the petroleum industry, as there is a cyclical trend in employment relating to the price of oil, retirements and people leaving and entering the industry.
The role of cue value, cue novelty, and overtraining in the discrimination shift performance of retardates and normal children of comparable discrimination ability.

Twenty-four normal kindergartners and 24 adult retardates, matched on discrimination performance, were each given four 2-stage discrimination shift treatments. These constituted half the treatments of a 2 × 2 × 2 factorial design in which the 3 factors were (1) Stage-1 positive cue retained in Stage 2 vs. Stage-1 negative cue retained (P vs. N), (2) extradimensional shift vs. intradimensional reversal (ED vs. ID), and (3) criterion of 6 consecutive correct on Stage 1 vs. criterion plus 40 overtraining trials (CR vs. OT). The PED and NED conditions compared transfer effects of posotive and negative cues when the novel (new) cue was rewarded on 50% of the trials instead of 100% and 0%, as was the case with the PID and NID problems, respectively. That is, the PED and NED conditions permitted a test of cue value effects that were unconfounded with cue novelty effects. Color and form stimuli were projected only 3 × 4 inch panels, which S was instructed to press. The results (errors in Stage 2) showed little differential transfer to be associated with the retention of the positive or negative cue in either the ID or the ED shifts. However, there was a large Shift effect, the ID shifts being easier than the ED shifts (p < .001) and also a significant Shift × Overtraining interaction, ED being impaired by overtraining but ID facilitated (p < .025). In combination, the Shift main effect and the Shift × Overtraining interaction were taken as support for a 2-process interpretation of discrimination learning.
AltAnalyze - An Optimized Platform for RNA-Seq Splicing and Domain-Level Analyses

The deep sequencing of transcriptomes has revolutionized our ability to detect known and novel RNA variants at a never before observed resolution. To capitalize on these ever improving technologies, we require functionally rich methods of annotation to predict and evaluate the consequences of RNA isoform variation at the level of proteins, domains and microRNA binding sites. We introduce a new version of the popular open-source application AltAnalyze (http://www.altanalyze.org), capable of analyzing RNA-Sequencing (RNA-Seq) datasets as well as splicing-sensitive or conventional arrays. This software can be run through an intuitive graphical user interface or command-line. Over 60 species and data from various RNA-Seq alignment workflows are immediately supported without any specialized configuration. AltAnalyze provides multiple options for gene expression quantification, filtering, quality control and biological interpretation. Hierarchical clustering heatmaps, principal component analysis plots, lineage correlation diagrams and visualization of enriched pathways are automatically produced for differentially expressed genes. For detection of alternative splicing, promoter or polyadenylation events, AltAnalyze combines both reciprocal-junction and alternative-exon expression approaches to identify annotated and novel RNA variation. By connecting these regulated splicing-events with optimal inclusion and exclusion isoforms, AltAnalyze is able to evaluate the impact of alternative RNA expression on protein domains, annotated motifs and binding sites for microRNAs. From a broader perspective, AltAnalyze examines the enrichment of effected domains and microRNA binding sites, to highlight the global impact of alternative splicing. Together, AltAnalyze provides an efficient, streamlined and comprehensive set of analysis results, to determine the biological impact of transcriptome regulation.
Testing Burrows's Delta

Delta, a simple measure of the difference between two texts, has been proposed by John F. Burrows as a tool in authorship attribution problems, particularly in large 'open' problems in which conventional methods of attribution are not able to limit the claimants effectively. This paper tests Delta's effectiveness and accuracy, and shows that it works nearly as well on prose as it does on poetry. It also shows that much larger numbers of frequent words are even more accurate than the 150 that Burrows tested. Automated methods that allow for tests on large numbers of differently selected words show that removing personal pronouns and words for which a single text supplies most of the occurrences greatly increases the accuracy of Delta tests. Further tests suggest that large changes in Delta and Delta z-scores from the likeliest to the second likeliest author typically characterize correct attributions, that differences in point of view among the texts are more significant than differences in nationality, and that combining several texts for each author in the primary set reduces the effect of intra-author variability. Although Delta occasionally produces errors in attribution with characteristics that would normally lead to a great deal of confidence, the results presented here confirm its usefulness in the preliminary stages of authorship attribution problems.
A New Category of Liquid Salt--Liquid Ionic Phosphates (LIPs)

Starting with polycationic ammonium and phosphonium salts bearing halide anions previously synthesized in our laboratory, we have prepared a new category of nonaqueous ionic liquids. These new nonaqueous ionic liquids bear either free phosphate anions or partially esterified phosphate anions as the counterions to the ammonium or phosphonium cations. We generally refer to these new species as LIPs (liquid ionic phosphates). We have developed three approaches toward the syntheses of these materials from the halide salts: one using hexafluorophosphoric acid;; a classical ion exchange method; and treatment with the free phosphorus-containing acid under vacuum. The new LIPs, although highly viscous, exhibit significantly high specific conductivities. Unlike ionic liquids bearing tetrafluoroborate of tetrachloroaluminate anions, the LIPs are unreactive toward water. Further, the LIPs bearing simple phosphate anions are soluble in water, unlike their corresponding hexafluorophosphate salts. We have also examined...
Solution structure of the second extracellular loop of human thromboxane A2 receptor.

Thromboxane A2 receptor (TP receptor), a prostanoid receptor, belongs to the G protein-coupled receptor family, composed of three intracellular loops and three extracellular loops connecting seven transmembrane helices. The highly conserved extracellular domains of the prostanoid receptors were found in the second extracellular loop (eLP2), which was proposed to be involved in ligand recognition. The 3D structure of the eLP2 would help to further explain the ligand binding mechanism. Analysis of the human TP receptor model generated from molecular modeling based on bacteriorhodopsin crystallographic structure indicated that about 12−14 A separates the N- and C-termini of the extra- and intracellular loops. Synthetic loop peptides whose termini are constrained to this separation are presumably more likely to mimic the native loop structure than the corresponding loop region peptide with unrestricted ends. To test this new concept, a peptide corresponding to the eLP2 (residues 173−193) of the TP receptor ha...
A new method for purification of mature elastin.

The isolation of elastin from various tissues has depended upon its chemical inertness and resistance to hydrolysis. However, the majority of the procedures used to obtain a purified product are drastic enough that breakdown of elastin occurs. This communication describes a new method for the isolation of elastin with less degradation than existing methods. The tissue is milled through a 40 mesh screen in a Wiley Mill. It is extracted with guanidinium chloride, autoclaved, and then treated with formic acid-cyanogen bromide. A purified product is obtained and quantitation of NH2-terminal residues shows five to ten times less end-groups than elastin extracted with currently existing methods.
Effects of tension and stiffness due to reduced pH in mammalian fast‐ and slow‐twitch skinned skeletal muscle fibres.

1. The pH dependence of the Ca2+ sensitivities of isometric tension and stiffness was investigated at 10 and 15 degrees C in skinned single fibres from rat and rabbit fast- and slow-twitch skeletal muscles. Stiffness was determined by recording the tension responses to sinusoidal length changes (3.3 kHz); peak-to-peak amplitude of the length change was monitored by laser diffraction and averaged approximately 1.3 nm (half-sarcomere)-1. We have assumed that stiffness provides a measure of the number of cross-bridge attachments to actin. 2. At maximal Ca2+ activation, stiffness was depressed by 22 +/- 2% (mean +/- S.E.M.) in fast-twitch fibres but was unchanged in slow-twitch fibres when pH was lowered from 7.00 to 6.20. As reported previously, maximum tension was depressed by 20-45% at low pH, with the effect being greater in fast-twitch compared to slow-twitch fibres. 3. In fast-twitch fibres at 10 and 15 degrees C the Ca2+ concentrations for half-maximal activation of tension and stiffness were increased at low pH. In slow-twitch fibres, similar effects were observed at 15 degrees C, but at 10 degrees C there were no changes in the Ca2+ sensitivities of tension and stiffness when pH was lowered. 4. Linear relationships between relative tension and relative stiffness were obtained at all temperatures, with slopes of 1.04 +/- 0.01 at pH 7.00 and 0.76 +/- 0.01 at pH 6.20 in fast- and slow-twitch fibres, indicating that force per cross-bridge attachment is similarly reduced at low pH in both types of fibres. 5. In both fast- and slow-twitch fibres, rigor tension (no added ATP or creatine phosphate; pCa 9.0) was depressed by 35 +/- 7% and stiffness by 12 +/- 4% when pH was reduced from 7.00 to 6.20. Since cross-bridge cycling is inhibited in rigor the effect of low pH to depress rigor tension suggests that pH directly modulates the strength of the bond formed between actin and myosin. 6. The effect of low pH to reduce the apparent number of cross-bridge attachments during maximal Ca2+ activation in fast- but not slow-twitch fibres could account for the greater H(+)-induced depression of maximum force in fast-twitch fibres. In both fibre types, the decrease in the number of cross-bridge attachments at submaximal concentrations of Ca2+ may in part account for the loss in Ca2+ sensitivity of tension at low pH, due perhaps to a reduction in co-operative activation of the thin filament by bound cross-bridges.
Chronic Plasma Cell Endometritis in Hysterectomy Specimens of HIV-Infected Women: A Retrospective Analysis

Objective: Abnormal uterine bleeding is a common and troublesome problem in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected women. We sought to evaluate endometrial pathology among HIVinfected women requiring hysterectomy to explore if endometritis may be common among these patients.
Sensitivity of Last Glacial Maximum climate to uncertainties in tropical and subtropical ocean temperatures

Abstract The faunal and floral gradients that underlie the CLIMAP (1981) sea-surface temperature (SST) reconstructions for the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) reflect ocean temperature gradients and frontal positions. The transfer functions used to reconstruct SSTs from biologic gradients are biased, however, because at the warmest sites they display inherently low sensitivity in translating fauna to SST and they underestimate SST within the euphotic zones where the pycnocline is strong. Here we assemble available data and apply a statistical approach to adjust for hypothetical biases in the faunal–based SST estimates of LGM temperature. The largest bias adjustments are distributed in the tropics (to address low sensitivity) and subtropics (to address underestimation in the euphotic zones). The resulting SSTs are generally in better agreement than CLIMAP with recent geochemical estimates of glacial–interglacial temperature changes. We conducted a series of model experiments using the GENESIS general atmospheric circulation model to assess the sensitivity of the climate system to our bias-adjusted SSTs. Globally, the new SST field results in a modeled LGM surface-air cooling relative to present of 6.4 °C (1.9 °C cooler than that of CLIMAP). Relative to the simulation with CLIMAP SSTs, modeled precipitation over the oceans is reduced by 0.4 mm d −1 (an anomaly −0.4 versus 0.0 mm d −1 for CLIMAP) and increased over land (an anomaly −0.2 versus −0.5 mm d −1 for CLIMAP). Regionally strong responses are induced by changes in SST gradients. Data-model comparisons indicate improvement in agreement relative to CLIMAP, but differences among terrestrial data inferences and simulated moisture and temperature remain. Our SSTs result in positive mass balance over the northern hemisphere ice sheets (primarily through reduced summer ablation), supporting the hypothesis that tropical and subtropical ocean temperatures may have played a role in triggering glacial changes at higher latitudes.
The Guest Worker Question in Postwar Germany – By Rita Chin

This is a timely and eloquent exploration of what is surely the most debated issue about German society, culture, and identity today: the increasing reality of a multicultural society. The book is ...
High-frequency impedance of small-angle tapers and collimators

Collimators and transitions in accelerator vacuum chambers often include small-angle tapering to lower the wakefields generated by the beam. While the low-frequency impedance is well described by Yokoya's formula (for axisymmetric geometry), much less is known about the behavior of the impedance in the high-frequency limit. In this paper we develop an analytical approach to the high-frequency regime for round collimators and tapers. Our analytical results are compared with computer simulations using the code ECHO.
Variation principle in stochastic Markovian processes

Abstract A variation principle which leads to the kinetic equation in a stochastic Markovian process is proposed. The variation function is the probability that a certain change of state occurs during a short time interval. Analogy between this variation procedure and the principle of minimum free energy in equilibrium statistical mechanics is pointed out.
Diurnal variability in riverine dissolved organic matter composition determined by in situ optical measurement in the San Joaquin River (California, USA)

Dissolved organic matter (DOM) concentration and composition in riverine and stream systems are known to vary with hydrological and productivity cycles over the annual and interannual time scales. Rivers are commonly perceived as homogeneous with respect to DOM concentration and composition, particularly under steady flow conditions over short time periods. However, few studies have evaluated the impact of short term variability (<1 day) on DOM dynamics. This study examined whether diurnal processes measurably altered DOM concentration and composition in the hypereutrophic San Joaquin River (California) during a relatively quiescent period. We evaluated the efficacy of using optical in situ measurements to reveal changes in DOM which may not be evident from bulk dissolved organic carbon (DOC) measurement alone. The in situ optical measurements described in this study clearly showed for the first time diurnal variations in DOM measurements, which have previously been related to both composition and concentration, even though diurnal changes were not well reflected in bulk DOC concentrations. An apparent asynchronous trend of DOM absorbance and chlorophyll-a in comparison to chromophoric dissolved organic matter (CDOM) fluorescence and spectral slope S290–350 suggests that no one specific CDOM spectrophotometric measurement explains absolutely DOM diurnal variation in this system; the measurement of multiple optical parameters is therefore recommended. The observed diurnal changes in DOM composition, measured by in situ optical instrumentation likely reflect both photochemical and biologically-mediated processes. The results of this study highlight that short-term variability in DOM composition may complicate trends for studies aiming to distinguish different DOM sources in riverine systems and emphasizes the importance of sampling specific study sites to be compared at the same time of day. The utilization of in situ optical technology allows short-term variability in DOM dynamics to be monitored and serves to increase our understanding of its processing and fundamental role in the aquatic environment. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Surgical correction of craniosynostosis. A review of 100 cases

Abstract Purpose Provide outcome data for open cranial vault reshaping at a single institution by a single craniofacial surgeon treating 100 patients. Methods and subjects A total of 100 patient records were reviewed. Criteria for selection included patients less than three years of age undergoing primary surgery with open cranial vault reshaping and a minimum follow up time of 2 years. Results Of the 100 patients (27 female, 73 male) treated 6 were syndromic and 94 nonsyndromic. Average age and weight were 8.9 months and 9.51 kg, respectively. The oldest child was 30 months and the youngest 5 months at the time of surgery. The estimated blood volume lost was 42.7% of total calculated blood volume ranging from 16.6% to 336%. Average surgical time was 216.7 min. Complications included 2 hematomas, 2 wound infections, 1 subgaleal abscess, 6 dural tears, 3 patients requiring reoperation for residual deformity, 4 cases requiring coronal scar revision, 1 sagittal sinus bleed, and 1 intraoperative death. Conclusions Our review of 100 open repairs of patients with craniosynostosis demonstrates good long-term results with an overall low complication rate. The outcome data will assist in developing future prospective studies aimed at improving the multidisciplinary care of these patients.
Limitations of parametric modeling of the left ventricle using first harmonic analysis: possible role for gaussian modeling.

Fourier (cosine) analysis of time activity curves (TAC) of radionuclide ventriculography (RVG) may oversimplify the TAC and has limitations. We identified 21 patients who had undergone 24 frame planar RVG with ejection fractions ranging from 8% to 76% (43% ± 19%). The TAC for each pixel was fitted to both a cosine and gaussian function then analyzed on a pixel-by-pixel basis then over the entire LV. Second, mathematical simulations were performed to analyze the stability of each fit in the presence of low amplitude and noise. The fit was slightly but significantly better for the gaussian compared to the cosine function (RMS gaussian 13.0% ± 2.5% vs 13.5% ± 2.1% cosine; P = .016). There was near exact correlation with amplitude and between gaussian mu and cosine phase. The SD of phase from the cosine fit correlated strongly with the SD of the mu from the gaussian fit. The proposed new measure of dyssynchrony, the sigma parameter of the gaussian fit, correlated with the SD of the cosine phase (r = 0.520, P = .016). Simulations showed gradual but modest deviation of the sigma parameter from the gaussian fit with lower amplitudes whereas the deviation of the calculated SD of phase increased exponentially with decreasing amplitude. First harmonic (cosine) fitting has significant limitations. Gaussian fitting is an alternative way to model the LV TAC. The sigma from the gaussian may provide additional information LV dyssynchrony and is less influenced by image noise. Gaussian fitting merits further evaluation for modeling LV function.
Disparity maps for dynamic stereo

Abstract Stereo matching algorithms often use regularization or relaxation methods to refine estimates of disparity in static images. Unfortunately, the computational requirements of these iterative techniques often preclude their use in real-time systems. Furthermore, most real-time stereo matching systems do not exploit the availability of a disparity map from the previous time step to compute the current disparity. We propose two algorithms for correspondence determination in dynamic stereo image sequences using prior disparity maps to localize, and to speed, the search for matches. The first method uses optical flow estimates in the stereo images to constrain the search space of feasible matchings. The second method uses a heuristic search scheme to prune matching graphs without explicit feature tracking or optical flow computation. Both methods can be applied to existing matching algorithms, to reduce their search space. The resulting improvement in matching is demonstrated in sample images and is quantified through the mean-square error of the computed disparity map compared to dense ground truth. The proposed methods are shown to improve the matching speed (decrease the latency) of five different matching algorithms.
Absorption f-Values of Ti II Vacuum Ultraviolet Resonance Transitions

We report laboratory measurements of the oscillator strengths for the Ti II vacuum ultraviolet resonance transitions 3d24s a4F3/2-3d4s4p(3Po) 4F at λvac = 191.0938 nm and 3d24s a4F3/2-3d4s4p(3Po) 4D at 191.0609 nm. Using the High Sensitivity Absorption Spectroscopy Experiment at the Synchrotron Radiation Center in Stoughton, Wisconsin, we determined the f-values for the Ti II 191.06 and 191.09 nm transitions relative to the well-known f-values of the Ti II resonance transitions 3d24s a4F3/2-3d24p z4D at λvac = 306.7245 nm and 3d24s a4F3/2-3d24p z4G at 338.4740 nm. The Ti II 191.06 nm absorption f-value is 0.104 ± 0.004. The Ti II 191.09 nm absorption f-value is 0.098 ± 0.003. The Ti II 191.06 and Ti II 191.09 nm transitions have been detected in ground-based observations of high-redshift quasi-stellar object (QSO) absorption-line systems and in space-based observations. Use of these refined f-values causes a minimal change in the Ti abundances reported for some QSO absorption-line systems and for the Large Magellanic Cloud toward SN 1987A. The overabundance of Ti relative to Fe in comparison to solar abundances for two QSO absorption-line systems is decreased by our results. In general Ti abundances based on the 191 nm lines now can be put on an accurate absolute scale.
Low frequency HVac transmission to increase power transfer capacity

The need for a large scale upgrade in the bulk power transmission capacity of the electric grid is critical for integrating large amounts of renewable generation and various smart grid technologies. System requirements to maintain adequate security margins and steady state power transfer limits over long distances lead to flow levels which are well below the thermal capacity of existing lines. This paper outlines the limitations of current approaches for increasing the power transfer capacity in a transmission corridor and explains an alternative approach for increasing the power throughput of high voltage three phase ac transmission lines by decreasing their frequency. Modular Multilevel Converters (MMCs) are proposed as an attractive alternative for realizing high power ac-ac frequency conversion. Their generalized topology of bridge of bridge (BoB) is described, and simulation results of a 60Hz ac to 20Hz ac three phase BoB converter are shown.
Social reactions to Valium and Prozac: a cultural lag perspective of drug diffusion and adoption.

Abstract Background In the sociological context, the concept of cultural lag holds that material technologies advance more rapidly than social guidelines for their use. The result can be social conflict including liability accusations and product stigmatization that have characterized several new drugs which were widely accepted initially but then publicly criticized in the lay and scientific press. Objectives The objective was to illustrate the utility of the concept of cultural lag to technology commercialization by applying cultural lag to the social and professional environments surrounding the diffusion of the “minor tranquilizers” Librium and Valium in the United States from the 1950s to the 1970s, and the antidepressant Prozac from 1987 to 2005. The intention is to develop a perspective from which to view patterns of social acceptance followed by critique that may occur when technological advances are introduced to the marketplace. Methods This study systematically reviews academic, medical, and lay literature regarding the diffusion of the “minor tranquilizers” Librium and Valium in the United States from the 1950s to the 1970s, and the antidepressant Prozac from 1987 to 2005. Results The minor tranquilizers and Prozac both reveal similar patterns of initial widespread public endorsement, followed by growing public criticism and recommendations for more restrictive usage guidelines. Conclusions Cultural lag provides a perspective from which to anticipate, view, and avoid controversies that develop from new technologies in general and pharmaceutical technologies in particular. Market demands for rapid introduction must be balanced by public education. This requires proactive encouragement of lay and professional discussions and the establishment of marketing guidelines that aid development of social consensus regarding appropriate usage.
Korean preschool children's snack and soda consumption and lack of regular dental checkup may increase risk for early childhood caries.

Article Title and Bibliographic Information Regular dental checkup and snack-soda drink consumption of preschool children are associated with early childhood caries in Korean caregiver/preschool children dyads. Han DH, Kim DH, Kim MJ, Kim JB, Kyunghee JC, Bae KH. Community Dent Oral Epidemiol 2014;42(1):70-8. Reviewer Hiroko Iida, DDS, MPH Purpose/Question What is the relationship of preschool children's oral health behavior and caregivers' self-reported oral health to the prevalence of early childhood caries (ECC) in Dong-gu, Ulsan, Korea? Source of Funding Government: National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) grant (No. 2011-0009536) funded by the Korean Ministry of Education, Science and Technology Type of Study/Design Cross-sectional study Level of Evidence Level 3: Other evidence Strength of Recommendation Grade Not applicable
Single-subject design and interaction analysis in the behavioral treatment of a child with a feeding problem.

A research paradigm, including an AB1 AB2 single-subject design, was developed and used in conjunction with an adult-child interaction analysis methodology to evaluate the effectiveness of a behavioral treatment approach to a feeding problem in a 21/2-year-old male. The results indicate that after nine treatment sessions, the child's diet was appropriate and the undesirable mother-child interaction pattern was changed. In addition, the interaction analysis methodology was used to evaluate the therapist's behavior modification techniques so that these could be taught to the mother. This study continued the previous endeavors to delineate feeding problems in children and subsequently to treat these problems with a behavioral approach. This kind of systematic research, with functional analysis of presenting problems and specification of the therapist's treatment behavior, is offered as a clinically appropriate paradigm for psychotherapy and behavior modification research.
Valve-based microfluidic compression platform: single axon injury and regrowth.

We describe a novel valve-based microfluidic axon injury micro-compression (AIM) platform that enables focal and graded compression of micron-scale segments of single central nervous system (CNS) axons. The device utilizes independently controlled “push-down” injury pads that descend upon pressure application and contact underlying axonal processes. Regulated compressed gas is input into the AIM system and pressure levels are modulated to specify the level of injury. Finite element modeling (FEM) is used to quantitatively characterize device performance and parameterize the extent of axonal injury by estimating the forces applied between the injury pad and glass substrate. In doing so, injuries are normalized across experiments to overcome small variations in device geometry. The AIM platform permits, for the first time, observation of axon deformation prior to, during, and immediately after focal mechanical injury. Single axons acutely compressed (∼5 s) under varying compressive loads (0–250 kPa) were observed through phase time-lapse microscopy for up to 12 h post injury. Under mild injury conditions ( 95 kPa), virtually all axons were instantaneously transected and nearly half (∼46%) of these axons were able to regrow within the imaging period in the absence of exogenous stimulating factors.
Evaluation of the taxonomic utility of six-enzyme pulsed-field gel electrophoresis in reconstructing Salmonella subspecies phylogeny

Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) remains an important tool in the molecular epidemiological evaluation of strains emerging from disease outbreak clusters. Recent studies of Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Salmonella Enteritidis have noted marked improvements in the discriminatory power of PFGE when combining band profiles from up to six restriction enzyme datasets into a single concatenated analysis. This approach has provided more accurate assignments of genetic relationships among closely related strains and allowed effective phylogenetic inference of host and geographical reservoirs. Although this approach enhances epidemiological congruence among closely related strains, it remains unclear to what extent six-enzyme PFGE pattern similarity reiterates evolutionary relatedness among more distantly related Salmonella strains (i.e., serovar or subspecies levels). Here, taxonomic accuracy of six-enzyme PFGE is tested phylogenetically across two distinct Salmonella enterica populations-Salmonella reference collection B (SARB), representing the breadth of taxonomic diversity of S. enterica subspecies I only, and Salmonella reference collection C (SARC), comprising the seven disparate subspecies of S. enterica plus S. bongori. Cladistic analysis of SAR strains revealed substantial polyphyly between the two strain collections such that numerous SARB strains clustered more closely with diverged SARC subspecies rather than with other members of subspecies I. Also, in several cases, SARC sibling strains from the same subspecies were evolutionary obscured-broken into distant locales on the most parsimonious six-enzyme trees. Genetic diversity among SARB and SARC strains was comparable at 45% and 47%, respectively, while congruence testing revealed discordance among individual enzyme datasets. While six-enzyme PFGE is effective in ascertaining accurate genetic relationships for more closely related strains (e.g., strains within the same serovar), reconstitution of evolutionarily meaningful strain groupings may be elusive for Salmonella at the serovar level and above. Thus, caution is warranted when applying PFGE with a limited number of enzymes as the primary phylogenetic marker in these instances.
An Experimental Examination of the Effects of Individual and Situational Factors on Unethical Behavioral Intentions in the Workplace

Using a 2 × 2 × 2 experimental design, the effects of situational and individual variables on individuals’ intentions to act unethically were investigated. Specifically examined were three situational variables: (1) quality of the work experience (good versus poor), (2) peer influences (unethical versus ethical), and (3) managerial influences (unethical versus ethical), and three individual variables: (4) locus of control, (5) Machiavellianism, and (6) gender, on individuals’ behavioral intentions in an ethically ambiguous dilemma in an work setting. Experiment 1 revealed main effects for quality of work experience, Machiavellianism, locus of control, and an interaction effect for peer influences and managerial influences. Experiment 2 showed main effects for all three situational variables and Machiavellianism. Neither experiment supported gender differences. Limitations, future research, and implications for management are discussed.
Melt-Spun Hollow Fibers for Use in Nonwoven Structures

Polypropylene hollow fibers were produced via the spunbonding process. Nitrogen gas was used as the lumen fluid. The polypropylene continuity equation can be combined with the nitrogen continuity equation to give excellent predictions of the inside diameter and the outside diameter of the product fiber. Tests were developed to measure the compression−recovery behavior of hollow fiber mats (nonwoven structures) versus mats of solid fibers. Tests were also developed to measure the opacity of hollow fiber mats versus solid fiber mats. In terms of compression−recovery and opacity, mats of hollow fibers are nearly identical to mats of solid fibers of the same outside diameter.
SIRT3-dependent deacetylation exacerbates acetaminophen hepatotoxicity

Acetaminophen/paracetamol-induced liver failure—which is induced by the binding of reactive metabolites to mitochondrial proteins and their disruption—is exacerbated by fasting. As fasting promotes SIRT3-mediated mitochondrial-protein deacetylation and acetaminophen metabolites bind to lysine residues, we investigated whether deacetylation predisposes mice to toxic metabolite-mediated disruption of mitochondrial proteins. We show that mitochondrial deacetylase SIRT3−/− mice are protected from acetaminophen hepatotoxicity, that mitochondrial aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 is a direct SIRT3 substrate, and that its deacetylation increases acetaminophen toxic-metabolite binding and enzyme inactivation. Thus, protein deacetylation enhances xenobiotic liver injury by modulating the binding of a toxic metabolite to mitochondrial proteins.
The pursuit of medical knowledge and the potential consequences of the hidden curriculum

This study explores how preclinical medical students experience particular elements of their training, specifically their pursuit for medical knowledge and how this may impact their attributes as well as their relations with those outside of the realm of medicine. Ten first-year and 10 second-year students of a US medical school were interviewed regarding their experiences with and perceptions of their medical training. The students reported a cognitive and emotional distance from non-medical students that appears to be accentuated not only by their strenuous academic responsibilities but also elements of the hidden curriculum nested within medical training. Furthermore, students discuss experiencing disapproval, mistrust, and negative judgment toward laypersons thereby suggesting that this distancing may lend to deleterious effects on students' ability and willingness to connect with others. A Parsonian lens is utilized to examine the notion of a 'Knowledge Gap' as well as aspects of the hidden curriculum in medical education and their role in professionalizing medical students.
Appalachian Residents' Experiences With and Management of Multiple Morbidity

Approximately three fourths of middle-aged and older adults have at least two simultaneously occurring chronic conditions ("multiple morbidity," or MM), a trend expected to increase dramatically throughout the world. Rural residents, who tend to have fewer personal and health resources, are more likely to experience MM. To improve our understanding of the ways in which vulnerable, rural residents in the United States experience and manage MM, we interviewed 20 rural Appalachian residents with MM. We identified the following themes: (a) MM has multifaceted challenges and is viewed as more than the sum of its parts; (b) numerous challenges exist to optimal MM self-management, particularly in a rural, underresourced context; however, (c) participants described strategic methods of managing MM, including prioritizing certain conditions and management strategies and drawing heavily on assistance from informal and formal sources.
FEMINISM FOR SALE Case Study of a Pro-Sex Feminist Business

This article is a case study of a woman-owned and-operated sexual products business, conceived in the midst of a fragmenting women's movement in 1977. The article tracks the evolution of pro-sex feminist ideology within this business during the past 22 years. Whereas most feminist organizations research focuses on nonprofit organizations and their relationship to the state, this study focuses on a political organization that depends on profits for survival. The voices in this study reveal the complexities of running an “alternative” business during the 1980s and 1990s and of balancing political ideals with profit needs. Ironically, as Toy Box and its consumer base grow (in response to capitalist pressures), more and more men and women are exposed to pro-sex feminism and buying into its philosophy. This contradiction is fundamental to the story of Toy Box's history and evolution.
Sea-level rise and refuge habitats for tidal marsh species: Can artificial islands save the California Ridgway's rail?

Terrestrial species living in intertidal habitats experience refuge limitation during periods of tidal inundation, which may be exacerbated by seasonal variation in vegetation structure, tidal cycles, and land-use change. Sea-level rise projections indicate the severity of refuge limitation may increase. Artificial habitats that provide escape cover during tidal inundation have been proposed as a temporary solution to alleviate these limitations. We tested for evidence of refuge habitat limitation in a population of endangered California Ridgway's rail (Rallus obsoletus obsoletus; hereafter California rail) through use of artificial floating island habitats provided during two winters. Previous studies demonstrated that California rail mortality was especially high during the winter and periods of increased tidal inundation, suggesting that tidal refuge habitat is critical to survival. In our study, California rail regularly used artificial islands during higher tides and daylight hours. When tide levels inundated the marsh plain, use of artificial islands was at least 300 times more frequent than would be expected if California rails used artificial habitats proportional to their availability (0.016%). Probability of use varied among islands, and low levels of use were observed at night. These patterns may result from anti-predator behaviors and heterogeneity in either rail density or availability of natural refuges. Endemic saltmarsh species are increasingly at risk from habitat change resulting from sea-level rise and development of adjacent uplands. Escape cover during tidal inundation may need to be supplemented if species are to survive. Artificial habitats may provide effective short-term mitigation for habitat change and sea-level rise in tidal marsh environments, particularly for conservation-reliant species such as California rails.