cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Variations of the Poincaré series for affine Weyl groups and q-analogues of Chebyshev polynomials

Abstract Let ( W , S ) be a Coxeter system and write P W ( q ) for its Poincare series. Lusztig has shown that the quotient P W ( q 2 ) / P W ( q ) is equal to a certain power series L W ( q ) , defined by specializing one variable in the generating function recording the lengths and absolute lengths of the involutions in W. The simplest inductive method of proving this result for finite Coxeter groups suggests a natural bivariate generalization L W J ( s , q ) ∈ Z [ [ s , q ] ] depending on a subset J ⊂ S . This new power series specializes to L W ( q ) when s = − 1 and is given explicitly by a sum of rational functions over the involutions which are minimal length representatives of the double cosets of the parabolic subgroup W J in W. When W is an affine Weyl group, we consider the renormalized power series T W ( s , q ) = L W J ( s , q ) / L W ( q ) with J given by the generating set of the corresponding finite Weyl group. We show that when W is an affine Weyl group of type A, the power series T W ( s , q ) is actually a polynomial in s and q with nonnegative coefficients, which turns out to be a q-analogue recently studied by Cigler of the Chebyshev polynomials of the first kind, arising in a completely different context.
Effect of an iterative reconstruction quantum noise reduction technique on computed tomography radiomic features.

Purpose: The goal of this study was to quantify the effects of iterative reconstruction on radiomics features of normal anatomic structures on head and neck computed tomography (CT) scans. Methods: Regions of interest (ROI) containing five different tissue types and an ROI containing only air were extracted from CT scans of the head and neck from 108 patients. Each scan was reconstructed using three different iDose 4 reconstruction levels (2, 4, and 6) in addition to bone, thin slice (1-mm slice thickness), and thin-bone reconstructions. From each ROI in all reconstructions, 142 radiomic features were calculated. For each of the six ROIs, features were compared between combinations of iDose levels (2v4, 4v6, and 2v6) with a threshold of α = 0.05 after correcting for multiple comparisons ( p 0.00006 ). Features from iDose 4 - 2 reconstructions were also compared to bone, thin slice, and thin-bone reconstructions. Spearman's rank correlation coefficient, ρ , quantified the relative feature value agreement across iDose 4 reconstructions. Results: When comparing radiomics features across the three iDose 4 reconstruction levels, over half of all features reflected significant differences for all tissue types, while no features demonstrated significant differences when extracted from air ROIs. When assessing feature value agreement, at least 97% of features reflected excellent agreement ( ρ > 0.9 ) when comparing the three iDose levels for all ROIs. When comparing iDose 4 - 2 to bone, thin slice, and thin-bone reconstructions, more than half of all features demonstrated significant differences for all ROIs and 89 % of features reflected excellent agreement for all ROIs. Conclusion: Many radiomics features are dependent on the iterative reconstruction level, and the magnitude of this dependency is affected by the tissue from which features are extracted. For studies using images reconstructed using varying iDose 4 reconstruction levels, features robust to these should be used.
Effect of Aerobic Exercise on Cardiopulmonary Responses and Predictors of Change in Individuals With Parkinson's Disease

Abstract Objective To determine the effect of aerobic exercise on maximal and submaximal cardiopulmonary responses and predictors of change in individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD). Design Single-center, parallel-group, rater-blind study. Setting Research laboratory. Participants Individuals with mild to moderate PD (N=100). Intervention Participants were enrolled in a trial evaluating the effect of cycling on PD and randomized to either voluntary exercise (VE), forced exercise (FE), or a no exercise control group. The exercise groups were time and intensity matched and exercised 3×/wk for 8 weeks on a stationary cycle. Main Outcome Measures Cardiopulmonary responses were collected via gas analysis during a maximal graded exercise test at baseline and post intervention. Results Exercise attendance was 97% and 93% for the FE and VE group, respectively. Average exercise heart rate reserve was 67%±11% for FE and 70%±10% for VE. No significant difference was present for change in peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak) post intervention, even though the FE group had a 5% increase in VO2peak. Both the FE and VE groups had significantly higher percentage oxygen consumption per unit time ( V ˙ o 2) at ventilator threshold (VT) than the control group compared with baseline values (P=.04). Mean V ˙ O 2 at VT was 5% (95% CI, 0.1%-11%) higher in the FE group (P=.04) and 7% (2%, 12%) higher in VE group compared with controls. A stepwise linear regression model revealed that lower age, higher exercise cadence, and lower baseline VO2peak were most predictive of improved VO2peak. The overall model was found to be significant (P Conclusions Peak and submaximal cardiopulmonary function may improve after aerobic exercise in individuals with PD. Lower age, higher exercise cadence, and lower baseline VO2peak were most predictive of improved VO2peak in this exercise cohort. The improvements observed in aerobic capacity were gained after a relatively short aerobic cycling intervention.
Training College Students to Use Learning Strategies: A Framework and Pilot Course:

The use of effective study strategies is important for academic achievement, yet research indicates that students often use relatively ineffective learning strategies. Though potent strategies to p...
Polyrhizophydium stewartii , the first known rhizomycelial genus and species in the Rhizophydiales, is closely related to Batrachochytrium .

Molecular and ultrastructural investigations of the Chytridiomycota during the last 20 years have led to the separation of new orders, including the Rhizophydiales. Most species in this order are m...
Application of Sentinel Serology in a BVDV Eradication Program

In 2007, the Michigan Upper Peninsula BVDV Eradication Program was launched. The purpose of this project is to eradicate bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) from a geographic area and, in doing so, identify benefits derived from and obstacles encountered during the eradication program. An important goal of the project was to develop a feasible model that may be adopted by other parts of the US. Key components of the program include identification and removal of cattle persistently infected with BVDV, institution of a planned biosecurity program, and appropriate BVDV vaccination. Whole-herd testing to identify cattle persistently infected with BVDV is a major investment of both time and money for producers. Therefore, development of more efficient herd-testing strategies would be beneficial. Serological evaluation of small groups of young, non-vaccinated calves has been proposed as an alternative method for identifying herds with cattle persistently infected (PI) with BVDV. The objective of the study reported here was to evaluate the application of sentinel serology as an ongoing herd monitoring tool to detect entry of BVDV into a herd. The goal of sentinel testing is to provide an effective herd screening tool that can be used in follow-up surveillance in an eradication program.
Early-onset colorectal cancer risk extends to second- and third-degree relatives.

Abstract Introduction Family history is a risk factor for colorectal cancer (CRC), however whether family history also contributes to non-syndromic early-onset CRC is unknown. Methods We estimated risk to first-, second-, and third-degree relatives of early-onset CRC cases in the Utah Pedigree Database. Results We observed elevated risks beyond RR = 2.0 for early-onset CRC among first- and second-degree relatives of early-onset CRC cases, with RRs of 6.0 and 3.1, respectively. Discussion Relatives of early-onset CRC cases are at higher risk of both early-onset CRC and CRC at any age, and the location is not necessarily similar to the affected relative.
Toxicologic Exposures in California Emergency Departments in 2011 and Its Risk Factors.

Introduction: Toxicologic exposures (TE) are a major preventable public health issue, with most cases due to unintentional causes. Although these cases are well documented and reported via the National Poison Data System, there is little information regarding toxicologic exposure cases in the emergency department (ED). The aim of this study was to identify demographic groups at risk for potential poisoning.Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. We used data from the California State Emergency Department Database (SEDD) 2011 for statistical analysis. Results: The study included 10,124,598 ED visits in California in 2011. The prevalence of TE was 383.4 (379.6-387.3) per 100,000 visits. Toxicologic exposures were most common among patients aged <10 years (555.4, 95% confidence interval [CI], 544.5-566.5 per 100,000 visits). Overall, TE was more common among males. White patients showed the highest prevalence of TE compared to other racial groups (P <0.001). Subpopulation analysis showed Native American female patients ages 10-19 had a noticeably higher prevalence of TE (1,464.4, 95% CI, 802.9-2444.9 per 100,000). The prevalence of TE was higher in households of higher median income (P <0.001). Prevalence of TE among those with a history of substance use was also elevated. Conclusion: Toxicologic exposure cases in the ED are elevated in particular age and race/ethnicity groups, as well as among those with a diagnosis of substance use disorder. The strength of association between these factors and TE in the general population may be different because we examined ED visits only. Further preventive and education strategies are necessary and should target the demographic groups identified in this epidemiological study.
Early Man in North America and Where To Look for Him: Geomorphic Contexts

There has long been a controversy concerning Man’s antiquity in the New World. Our oldest unquestioned sites are those of the Clovis Complex which date to 11,000-12,000 B.P. In this paper, an attem...
Computer Animation in Engineering

Computer animation provides the next leap in extending and enhancing the engineer’s ability to communicate with others. This is a concise overview of the advantages, uses, and features available in computer animation. The discussion covers the areas such as design, sales, product litigation, advertising, and entertainment where computer animation can and is being used. The features discussed include site “walk-thru,” object examination, mechanisms, vehicle dynamics, structural behavior, and pilot/driver/ operator trainers.
Receptor activity of rotavirus nonstructural glycoprotein NS28.

Rotavirus morphogenesis involves the budding of subviral particles through the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) membrane of infected cells. During this process, particles acquire the outer capsid proteins and a transient envelope. Previous immunocytochemical and biochemical studies have suggested that a rotavirus nonstructural glycoprotein, NS28, encoded by genome segment 10, is a transmembrane RER protein and that about 10,000 Mr of its carboxy terminus is exposed on the cytoplasmic side of the RER. We have used in vitro binding experiments to examine whether NS28 serves as a receptor that binds subviral particles and mediates the budding process. Specific binding was observed between purified simian rotavirus SA11 single-shelled particles and RER membranes from SA11-infected monkey kidney cells and from SA11 gene 10 baculovirus recombinant-infected insect cells. Membranes from insect cells synthesizing VP1, VP4, NS53, VP6, VP7, or NS26 did not possess binding activity. Comparison of the binding of single-shelled particles to microsomes from infected monkey kidney cells and from insect cells indicated that a membrane-associated component(s) from SA11-infected monkey kidney cells interfered with binding. Direct evidence showing the interaction of NS28 and its nonglycosylated 20,000-Mr precursor expressed in rabbit reticulocyte lysates and single-shelled particles was obtained by cosedimentation of preformed receptor-ligand complexes through sucrose gradients. The domain on NS28 responsible for binding also was characterized. Reduced binding of single-shelled particles to membranes was seen with membranes treated with (i) a monoclonal antibody previously shown to interact with the C terminus of NS28, (ii) proteases known to cleave the C terminus of NS28, and (iii) the Enzymobead reagent. VP6 on single-shelled particles was suggested to interact with NS28 because (i) a monoclonal antibody to the subgroup I epitope on VP6 reduced particle binding, (ii) a purified polyclonal antiserum raised against recombinant baculovirus-produced VP6 reduced ligand binding, and (iii) a monoclonal antibody to a conserved epitope on VP6 augmented ligand binding. These experimental data provide support for the hypothesized receptor role of NS28 before the budding stage of rotavirus morphogenesis. Images
Hierarchical Models of Synchronous Circuits (Abstract)

We seek a behavioral model of synchronous circuit operation which generalizes Mealy machines in several ways: It should allow the expression of nondeterministic behavior. It should allow parallel composition of machines and hiding of output signals. It should not restrict bidirectional communication between machines. It should deal reasonably with zero-delay cycles, which can be present in unrestricted communication graphs. It should provide a preorder that precisely captures the proper relationship between implementation and specification behaviors. It should allow the computation of the “most general environment” of a circuit.
The New Asia: Regime Shifts in Currency and Equity Markets

This paper analyzes the structural relationship between currency and equity markets in ten Far Eastern countries during the recent Asian crisis. This analysis is done separately for returns and for volatilities. Using a new statistical technology for identifying regime shifts, we are able to demonstrate how information shocks in these markets moved from country to country in the 1992-1998 time period. We also create confidence intervals for when the most significant regime shifts occurred in each country. We find that volatility breaks occur prior to return breaks; more specifically, shifts in the volatility structure occurred in fall 1997 for most countries in our sample, while most shifts in the return structure occurred in mid 1998. The sequential nature of the observed regime shifts is consistent with the notion that return and volatility linkages among Asian markets were created by information spillover effects. Our study also shows that the negative relationship between volatility and returns found by French, Schwert and Stambaugh (1987) for the U.S. market holds for Asian markets. Furthermore, our results indicate that the information shocks in this crisis are related more to equity market movements, in particular, capital flight, than to foreign exchange shocks. An analysis of flow of funds data provides further evidence that information spillover or herding effects generate the observed return and volatility relationships among these countries.
Interprocedural Array Redistribution Data-Flow Analysis

In High Performance Fortran (HPF), array redistribution can be described explicitly using directives (REDISTRIBUTE or REALIGN) which specify where new distributions become active or implicitly by calling functions which require different data distributions than the calling function. In order to actually compile an HPF program into an efficient form, however, both the redistribution operations as well as the possible distributions for the individual blocks of code must be known at compile-time. In this paper, we present an interprocedural data-flow framework which takes into account both explicit and implicit redistribution to automatically: (1) determine which distributions hold over specific sections of a program, (2) optimize both the inter- and intraprocedural transitions between dynamic distributions while still maintaining the original semantics of the HPF program, (3) determine when the distribution pattern specified by an HPF program causes a given array to be assigned multiple distributions due to different redistribution operations on multiple paths within a function or as a result of parameter aliasing (resulting in a non-conforming HPF program), as well as (4) convert (well behaved) dynamic HPF programs into equivalent static forms through a process we refer to as static distribution assignment (SDA) which can be used to extend the capabilities of existing subset HPF compilers that support static data distributions. As the approach presented in this paper has already been implemented as part of the PARADIGM (PARAllelizing compiler for DIstributed-memory General purpose Multicomputers) project at the University of Illinois, examples will also be presented to demonstrate several applications of this framework.
Hepatitis A and B Superimposed on Chronic Liver Disease: Vaccine-Preventable Diseases

A number of studies have demonstrated that the acquisition of hepatitis A or hepatitis B in patients with chronic liver disease is associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Superimposition of acute hepatitis A in patients with chronic hepatitis C has been associated with a particularly high mortality rate, and chronic hepatitis B virus coinfection with hepatitis C virus is associated with an accelerated progression of chronic liver disease to cirrhosis, decompensated liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma. With the availability of vaccines against hepatitis B and hepatitis A since 1981 and 1995, respectively, these are vaccine-preventable diseases. Studies have confirmed that hepatitis A and hepatitis B vaccines are safe and immunogenic in patients with mild to moderate chronic liver disease. However, hepatitis A and B vaccination is less effective in patients with advanced liver disease and after liver transplantation. These observations have led to the recommendation that patients undergo hepatitis A and B vaccination early in the natural history of their chronic liver disease. Vaccination rates are low in clinical practice, and public health and educational programs are needed to overcome barriers to facilitate timely implementation of these recommendations.
The catalytic transition state in ATP synthase.

The catalytic transition state of ATP synthase has been characterized and modeled by combined use of (1) Mg-ADP–fluoroaluminate, Mg-ADP–fluoroscandium, and corresponding Mg-IDP–fluorometals as transition-state analogs; (2) fluorescence signals of β-Trp331 and β-Trp148 as optical probes to assess formation of the transition state; (3) mutations of critical catalytic residues to determine side-chain ligands required to stabilize the transition state. Rate acceleration by positive catalytic site cooperativity is explained as due to mobility of α-Arg376, acting as an “arginine finger” residue, which interacts with nucleotide specifically at the transition state step of catalysis, not with Mg-ATP- or Mg-ADP-bound ground states. We speculate that formation and collapse of the transition state may engender catalytic site α/β subunit-interface conformational movement, which is linked to γ-subunit rotation.
A ridgelet transform method for constraining tectonic models via abyssal‐hill morphology

Abyssal-hill shape and orientation are related to the direction and spreading rate of paleo-spreading centers. Therefore analyzing abyssal-hill shape and trend is useful for constraining tectonic models of regions devoid of magnetic reversal anomalies. Detecting systematic changes of abyssal-hill shapes or trends, due to changes in spreading rate or direction, is not straightforward, which makes it difficult to determine appropriate regions over which to average abyssal-hill parameters. Often, however, detecting these systematic changes, where they occur, and the scale over which they occur, is of primary importance for tectonic reconstructions. We present a new method of abyssal-hill analysis that is based on the ridgelet transform, a relative of the two-dimensional wavelet transform. Our method is capable of locally estimating the width, azimuth, and root-mean-square (RMS) amplitude of abyssal-hill fabric and highlights changes in these parameters across a survey area, making it possible to identify regions created with a constant spreading rate and direction. We use three multibeam swaths, one crossing the Osbourn Trough in the southwest Pacific Basin, one crossing the East Pacific Rise, and one crossing the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, to demonstrate the utility and performance of our method.
Critical Representations of Sexual Assault in Young Adult Literature

In order to understand the realities of sexual violence in young people’s lives as well as how these are represented in YAL, we examined recent research that reported rates and effects of dating and sexual violence in middle and high schools. Rape is part of a larger issue of sexual violence, including sexual harassment, sexual assault, and sexual coercion. As such, we considered research from psychology, health, violence, and legal fields of study. Three important themes emerged from our readings. First, sexual violence has substantial psychological and physical effects on victims; second, rates of rape were significantly higher for females than males, though youth of color, and gay, lesbian, and bisexual (GLB) youth seem particularly vulnerable to dating and sexual violence; and third, adolescent perpetrators of sexual violence are primarily male, with suggestion that bullying and aggressive sports may be pathways leading to sexual violence. Together, these studies illustrate the significant and varied effects of sexual violence on adolescents, challenge myths about the demographics of rape victims, and indicate a need to foster critical discussions about sexual assault with young adults. Therefore, we argue that educators must carefully examine the implicit and explicit messages in YAL that depicts sexual assault. We adopt Alsup’s definition of a “critical text” as the type of literature teachers should provide students for independent reading and for classroom discussion.
The Galilean Fishing Economy and the Jesus Tradition

Building on the earlier studies of ancient fishing by Rostovtzeff and Wuellner, this article examines fishing as a sub-system within the political economy and the domestic economy of first-century Galilee. I employ a model of embedded economics to articulate the relationships between the various players in the sub-system: the Roman emperors; Herod Antipas; the tax administrators; the brokers, tax collectors, and toll collectors; the fishing families; the hired laborers; the suppliers of raw goods and other products; fish processors; and shippers and carters. This model is developed in order to provide a more focussed frame of reference for the interpretation of the Jesus tradition (metaphors and narratives) and the location of Jesus' activity and network recruitment in Galilean fishing villages.
Are Consumer Perceptions Of Retailers Aligned With Retail Store Positioning

This empirical study extends previous store image research by using consumer perceptions of store image to determine whether these perceptions are aligned with retailers’ intended positioning.
Biochemical and Micro-Analytical Methods

Because of the small amounts of material available for study, investigations of plaque, caries lesions in enamel, and antibodies in saliva pose difficult challenges for investigators. Sophisticated biochemical and fluorescence techniques can now be used to investigate the microbial composition of plaque, thereby avoiding the need for tedious culturing techniques from single sites on tooth surfaces. A range of microchemical methodologies is available which greatly facilitates the analysis of plaque fluid, thereby enhancing our understanding of tooth-plaque interactions. The application of a range of novel physiochemical techniques should help to clarify our knowledge of the interactions involved in pellicle formation and elucidate the phenomena involved in the formation of the early caries lesion. A range of techniques is now available for the study of antibodies in saliva. These include ELISA, RIA, and solid-phase immunoassay. The application of these methodologies to the investigation of oral diseases sh...
Maintenance Decisions of Absentee Landlords under Uncertainty

Abstract Why are some areas of a city characterized by blight and decay, while others, of the same vintage, remain healthy, vibrant, and appealing? The answer is in part determined by the maintenance (and property abandonment) decisions of absentee landlords. Given the great practical importance of this topic, it has not been neglected in the literature. However, because of the dynamic nature of the problem, most of the authors have used optimal control theory, which requires that all prices, future and present, be known with certainty. The innovation in this paper is to treat future rents as being uncertain. The primary model discussed in the paper is stylistic in that time is discrete, and there are only two periods and two maintenance states (although the Appendixes contain models which relax these restrictions). The model is easy to understand and illustrates that the landlord's maintenance decision is affected by his expectations regarding future neighborhood quality and that these expectations may be influenced by the actions of other landlords or by public authorities. A simulation is presented which demonstrates the spatial nature of the deterioration of the housing stock.
'Nonrespiratory sinus arrhythmia' or 'heart rate alternans': comments on the article by Gratadour et al. 'Unusual sinus arrhythmia'.

group 1 and 6 weeks post STEMI. These findings suggest that early initiation of a low-dose atovastatin treatment may exert beneficial anti-inflammatory effects in patients with STEMI, independently of the baseline cholesterol levels. Endothelial injury and activation characterises the acute phase of myocardial infarction and persists for many weeks post STEMI [4]. Von Willebrand factor (vWF), is a glycoprotein stimulating platelet adhesion to the subendothelium and a good marker of endothelial integrity [4]. Since statins exert a cytoprotective effect on vascular endothelium by modifying redox-state and preventing apoptosis [5], we hypothesized that early initiation of atorvastatin treatment would prevent the expected rise in vWF levels in patients with STEMI. Indeed, we observed that vWF was elevated 1 and 6 weeks post STEMI, an effect prevented by atorvastatin in normocholesterolemic patients. However, we found no change of tPA or PAI-1 levels during the post-STEMI period. In conclusion, we observed that early initiation of lowdose of atorvastatin treatment decreases the expression of IL6 and sVCAM-1 during the post STEMI. Also, we observed that early initiation of atorvastatin treatment post STEMI, decreases the release of vWF while it fails to modify the levels of PAI-1 or tPA. These data suggest that low-dose atorvastatin treatment has a beneficial effect in patients with recent STEMI, by modulating inflammatory response and decreasing endothelial injury and activation.
Human umbilical cord blood derived stem cells repair doxorubicin-induced pathological cardiac hypertrophy in mice

In the present study, we investigated the cardiomyogenic potential of human umbilical cord blood (hUCB)-derived stem cells and whether stem cell treatment repairs the pathological hypertrophy induced by doxorubicin (DOX) in cultured neonatal rat cardiomyocytes (NRCM) and in mouse hearts. hUCB, which were labeled with cell tracker dye, were co-cultured with isolated NRCM in vitro. After 48h of incubation, the red stained hUCB cells (30%) contracted rhythmically and synchronously (physical examination). These differentiated hUCB also expressed cardiac specific alpha-actinin and showed diffused expression of connexin 43 and N-cadherin, thereby suggesting a tight electrical coupling among hUCB cells and myocytes. When co-cultured, hUCB also reversed the pathological effects induced by DOX in NRCM and in mice as seen by RT-PCR, immunoblot analysis and immunocytochemistry. hUCB migrated and integrated into the hearts of mice that were treated with DOX after intravenous injection and reversed the expression of pathological hypertrophic markers induced by DOX in mice. Further, we observed a shift from pathological hypertrophy towards physiological hypertrophy by hUCB in DOX-challenged mice. hUCB treatment in mice decreased DOX-induced increase of heart weight to body mass ratio and fibrosis. Taken together, these findings suggest the potential therapeutic use of hUCB in reversing heart failure conditions.
Local Heat Transfer in a Rotating Serpentine Flow Passage

An experimental study is performed on the internal cooling of a rotating serpentine flow passage of square cross section with throughflow. The test section is not proceeded by a hydrodynamic calming region, i.e., a leading arm, and is rotated at low Rossby numbers. The local heat transfer coefficients along the flow passage, including the leading wall, trailing wall, and sidewalls, are determined together with the circumferentially averaged values. The Reynolds, Rossby, and rotating Rayleigh numbers are varied to determine their effects on heat transfer performance. It is disclosed that heat transfer augmentation is significant at all sharp turns due to the presence of strong secondary flow. The rotational effect is very obvious and complicated in the local heat transfer performance but it is very minor on the average heat transfer performance. The throughflow rate plays an important role on the heat transfer performance. The results may serve as a baseline for comparison with the results from a model with a leading arm to determine the effects of a hydro-dynamic calming section on the heat transfer performance of a rotating serpentine flow passage.
Developing models of preference for home-based and center-based telecommunting: Findings and forecasts

Abstract This study investigates the preference to telecommute from home and from a center. While home-based telecommuting is fairly commonplace, center-based telecommuting is a relatively recent form that involves traveling to work at an office near home and remote from the regular workplace. The research presented here constitutes one of the first efforts to model the preference for center-based telecommuting. Survey data were collected from center-based telecommuters, home-based telecommuters, and non-telecommuters, as part of a telecommuting center demonstration project in California. Using attitudinal factor scores, as well as travel and sociodemographic variables, the preferences to work from the telecommuting center and to work from home were modeled. Logit models for center preference, home preference, and center versus home preference were estimated. The most frequently significant characteristics were personal benefits at the center, work ethic at home, and age of the respondent. Speculation on the future of the center-based form of telecommuting suggests slow growth for the near term, but potential long-term viability in connection with alternative uses of telecenter facilities and with the trend toward non-territorial office arrangements.
Friction Stir Spot Welding (FSSW) of Advanced High Strength Steel (AHSS)

Friction stir spot welding (FSSW) is applied to join advanced high strength steels (AHSS): galvannealed dual phase 780 MPa steel (DP780GA), transformation induced plasticity 780 MPa steel (TRIP780), and hot-stamped boron steel (HSBS). A low-cost Si3N4 ceramic tool was developed and used for making welds in this study instead of polycrystalline cubic boron nitride (PCBN) material used in earlier studies. FSSW has the advantages of solid-state, low-temperature process, and the ability of joining dissimilar grade of steels and thicknesses. Two different tool shoulder geometries, concave with smooth surface and convex with spiral pattern, were used in the study. Welds were made by a 2-step displacement control process with weld time of 4, 6, and 10 seconds. Static tensile lap-shear strength achieved 16.4 kN for DP780GA-HSBS and 13.2kN for TRIP780-HSBS, above the spot weld strength requirements by AWS. Nugget pull-out was the failure mode of the joint. The joining mechanism was illustrated from the cross-section micrographs. Microhardness measurement showed hardening in the upper sheet steel (DP780GA or TRIP780) in the weld, but softening of HSBS in the heat-affect zone (HAZ). The study demonstrated the feasibility of making high-strength AHSS spot welds with low-cost tools.
Temporal relationships of puromycin and ACTH effects on cultured hamster adrenal glands

Abstract 1. 1. Pulse doses of ACTH delivered to organ-cultured adrenals alter the secretory cycle when the ACTH stimulation is out of phase with the daily peak. 2. 2. Puromycin blocks the immediate secretory response to ACTH and the delayed (phase-shifting) response. 3. 3. A further effect of puromycin is the damping or loss of 24-hr periodicity on the day following the pulse inhibition; it is not clear whether the loss of rhythmicity reflected by the data represents desynchronization or randomization or temporal secretory events.
Prognostic value of growth of 4-cell embryos on the day of transfer in fresh IVF-ET cycles

Purpose To investigate the prognostic value of growth of 4-cell embryos on the day of transfer in determining clinical pregnancy and live birth rates after fresh in vitro fertilization (IVF)-embryo transfer (ET) cycles.
Altered tyrosine 527 phosphorylation and mitotic activation of p60c-src

THE tyrosine kinase activity of p60c-src, the protein product of thec-src gene, increases during mitosis1,2; this may be important in initiating at least some of the cellular changes that occur during this phase of the cell cycle. Although there is evidence that p60c-src is phosphorylated at several sites during mitosis, phosphorylation in vitro does not increase its kinase activity2,3. We now report that the kinase activity of a p60c-srcmutant with residue tyrosine 527 changed to phenylanine does not change during the cell cycle, suggesting that changes in the phosphorylation state of this residue may be responsible for the activation of p60c-src at mitosis. Although changes in phosphorylation at Tyr 527 cannot be detected with the wild-type protein we find that phosphorylation at Tyr 527 of a mutant with reduced kinase activity decreases threefold during mitosis. On the basis of these results we suggest that activation of p60c-src at mitosis results from decreased phosphorylation on Tyr 527, and that p60c-src may be or may activate the kinase that phosphorylates Tyr 527.
Decentralized and partially decentralized reinforcement learning for designing a distributed wetland system in watersheds

In this paper, we use identical-payoff games of reinforcement learning agents as a framework to solve complex multi-criteria optimization problem of watershed management. Multiple analytical criteria are used to assess design decisions for creating a distributed network of wetlands in the watershed. Decentralized game algorithms of reinforcement learning agents as well as a genetic algorithm based method are used for the analysis. Simulation studies are presented which compare the efficiency of the reinforcement learning approaches with a multi-objective genetic algorithm-based approach.
The right to exclude

Many contemporary theories of immigration begin with the idea that we obtain the right to exclude, because there are some goods that can be produced only within bounded societies. I believe these views to be mistaken, both ethically and empirically. More plausible accounts of the right to exclude begin with the idea that individuals have rights, in virtue of their moral rights of association or of property, to avoid admitting foreigners into their societies. I believe these accounts have to be amended to make reference to the juridical nature of the modern state. My own view is that the right to exclude is grounded in the right to avoid becoming the agent charged with the defense of another’s human rights – unless there is some independent moral reason one ought to become so charged. This account is able to ground the right to exclude, but does not justify the ways in which modern states employ that putative right.
The Penetration of Mountain Waves into the Middle Atmosphere

A linear nonhydrostatic model of gravity waves forced by a bell-shaped ridge is used to investigate the penetration of mountain waves into the stratosphere and mesosphere during winter and fall. Gravity waves with horizontal scales less than 30 km are found to be trapped near the tropopause and the stratopause in regions of strong winds. The effect of trapping these modes produces a disturbance whose structure broadens with height. In the mesosphere the disturbance appears 20-40 km downstream from the forcing depending on the strength of the intervening winds. Wavebreaking associated with the mountain wave is predicted in the lower stratosphere as a result of wave superposition; no individual harmonic reaches breaking amplitude. In the mesosphere, wave breakdown is more prevalent, and the disturbance spectrum is relatively more monochromatic as a result of the filtering of the shorter scale modes by the lower atmosphere.
Peritoneal inflammatory response of natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) versus laparoscopy with carbon dioxide and air pneumoperitoneum

The immunologic and physiologic effects of natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) versus traditional surgical approaches are poorly understood. Previous investigations have shown that NOTES and laparoscopy share similar inflammatory cytokine profiles except for a possible late-phase tissue necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) depression with NOTES. The local peritoneal reaction and immunomodulatory influence of pneumoperitoneum agents in NOTES also are not known and may play an important role in altering the physiologic insult induced by NOTES. In this study, 51 animals were divided into four study groups, which respectively underwent abdominal exploration via transgastric NOTES using room air (AIR) or carbon dioxide (CO2) or via laparoscopy (LX) using AIR or CO2 for pneumoperitoneum. Laparotomy and sham surgeries were additionally performed as control conditions. Measurements of TNF-α, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and IL-6 were performed for peritoneal fluid collected after 0, 2, 4, and 6 h and on postoperative days (PODs) 1, 2, and 7. Of the 45 animals assessed, 6 were excluded because of technical operative complications. The findings showed that LX-CO2 generated the most pronounced response with all three inflammatory markers. However, no significant differences were detected between LX-CO2 and either NOTES group at these peak points. No differences were encountered between NOTES-CO2 and NOTES-AIR. Subgroup comparisons showed significantly higher levels of TNF-α and IL-6 with NOTES-CO2 than with LX-AIR on POD 1 (p = 0.022) and POD 2 (p = 0.002). The LX-CO2 subgroup had significantly higher levels of TNF-α than the LX-AIR subgroup at 4 h (p = 0.013) and on POD 1 (p = 0.021). No late-phase TNF-α depression occurred in the NOTES animals. The local inflammatory reaction to NOTES was similar to that with traditional laparoscopy, and the previously described late-phase systemic TNF-α depression in serum was not reproduced. At the peritoneal level, NOTES is no more physiologically stressful than laparoscopy. Furthermore, regardless of which gas was used, the role of the pneumoperitoneum agent did not affect the cytokine profile after NOTES, suggesting that air pneumoperitoneum is adequate for NOTES.
MICROSTRUCTURAL CHANGES IN COLLAGEN AND ELASTIN AND THEIR IMPACT ON THE MECHANICS OF THE PULMONARY ARTERY IN HYPERTENSION

In pulmonary arteries (PA), mechanical function is largely driven by the underlying microstructure of the structural proteins collagen and elastin, which reside within the extracellular matrix (ECM) of the arterial tissue. It has long been established that much of the mechanical non-linearity associated with arterial tissue is the result of collagen mechanics. Arterial collagen is arranged within the vascular wall as tortuous fibrils with a bulk fiber orientation of roughly helical configuration. When arterial tissue is deformed, these collagen fibers become straightened in the direction of applied load. At some critical deformation, termed the transition stretch (λ
Effect of intermittent lighting on the reproductive performance of first-year and recycled turkey hens.

Abstract In each of two trials, a 2-by-2 factorial arrangement of treatments was utilized to evaluate the reproductive performance of first-year and recycled turkey hens to intermittent lighting (IL) through an egg-laying period of 20 wk. The IL treatment provided 4 h of light per day given as 2 h light: 12 h dark:2 h light:8 h dark (2L:12D:2L:8D). This treatment group was compared to controls maintained on 16L:8D. Data were collected for BW, feed intake, feed efficiency, time to first egg, eggs per hen fertility, hatchability, egg weight, and poult weight. Consistent age effects included greater BW, egg weight, and poult weight from recycled hens compared to first-year hens as well as a delay in the onset of laying and a reduction in egg production by six eggs per hen in the recycled hens. Feed intake and feed efficiency were similar in both age groups. Intermittent lighting delayed the onset of laying but increased the rate of lay by eight eggs per hen. Late-season fertility, feed efficiency, and egg weight were significantly increased by the IL treatment. The conclusion was that, for turkey hens, intermittent lighting can effectively improve reproductive performance.
Chronic Diarrhea After Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation for Peripheral T-cell Lymphoma

GA Question: A 52-year-old manwith a history of stage IV peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL) was referred to our endoscopy suite inSeptember 2012 for the evaluation of chronic diarrhea. After the diagnosis of PTCL in 2008 and 6 cycles of chemotherapy, the patient underwent a peripheral blood autologous stem cell transplantation in February 2011. Five months after his transplant, he developed chronic, watery, nonbloodydiarrheawithoutother associated gastrointestinal symptoms. Stool studieswere negative for enteric pathogens and an upper endoscopy and colonoscopy at a local hospital showed nonspecific colitis and the question of possible acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) was raised. The patient was not receiving any immunosuppressive therapy and was treated with nonspecific antidiarrheal agents and cholestyramine with no response. The patient was subsequently treated empirically for unspecified “immune-mediated colitis” with corticosteroids and noticed improvement of his diarrhea. During 2 attempts to taper corticosteroid treatment, the patient experienced relapse of his diarrhea, suggestive of a steroid-dependent disease. In September 2012, the patient underwent aF-18 fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) for follow-up of his lymphoma, which showed diffuse uptake of FDG in the colon (Figure A). He was subsequently referred to our clinic for colonoscopy for further assessment of his colitis. Colonoscopy revealed mild patchy erythema and edema, friability, loss of vascularity, and small ulcerations throughout the colon, more prominent in the descending and rectosigmoid area (Figures B and C). Random colonic biopsies demonstrated expansion of the lamina propria with a mixed infiltrate of small to intermediately sized lymphocytes, histiocytes, and plasma cells on hematoxylin and eosin stain (Figure D). Special stains were performed. What is the diagnosis? See the GASTROENTEROLOGY web site (www.gastrojournal.org) for more information on submitting your favorite image to Clinical Challenges and Images in GI. Acknowledgements: The authors thank the entire team of physicians involved in the care of the patient; Dr. David Inwards (Department of Hematology and Oncology), Dr. Sunanda Kane (Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology), Drs. Vishal Chandan, Paul Kurtin, Jennifer Oliveira, Thomas Smyrk, T.T. Wu (Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine) at Mayo Clinic, Rochester.
Strontium90 and Milk: Estimates of the Dietary Significance of Changes in Milk Consumption

Summary Extensive studies have indicated that the presence of milk in the average diet in the United States has been a significant factor in reducing the population bone burden of Sr 90 below that which would have resulted from the same diet without milk. This has resulted because the level of Sr 90 depositing in human bone has been shown to be dependent on the Sr 90 /Ca ratio present in the total diet, and milk has contained a lower Sr 90 /Ca ratio than the average of the other foods in the diet. Estimates have been made to relate the effects of possible changes in milk consumption on the resultant Sr 90 /Ca ratio in the diet. Analyses of the Sr 90 /Ca ratios that have been observed in milk and the remainder of the diet indicate that postulated practices such as even the removal of most of the Sr 90 from milk might actually increase the bone deposition level of Sr 90 if accompanied by a significant decrease in milk consumption.
Mood Alterations in Patients Treated with Chlorambucil

The alkylating agent chlorambucil produces dose-limiting myelosuppression but can also cause rare central nervous system toxicities, including seizures, when given in high doses. Patients with lymphoma who were receiving intermittent pulsed oral doses of 10-12 mg/m2 chlorambucil per day for 5 days experienced marked mood alterations during therapy. These effects, which have not been reported previously, involved sleep alterations, anxiety and restlessness, irritability, and depression. All effects remitted immediately after the final day of the dosing regimen. Mood alterations should be added to the known list of chlorambucil-related toxicities and can occur with commonly used oral dosing schedules.
A positive correlation between self-ratings of depression and laboratory-measured aggression

Aggression and depressive symptoms have been linked using self-rating scales as measures of aggression. In order to study this relationship using an objective measure of aggression, we studied normal controls (42 women and 23 men) with the Point Subtraction Aggression Paradigm (PSAP) and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). There was a significant positive correlation (r = 0.442, P = 0.003) between the level of aggressive responding on the PSAP and the level of depressive symptoms on the BDI in women but not in men (r = 0.064, P = 0.773). This study provides some evidence of a link between aggressive behavior and depressive symptoms in a non-clinical population, possibly due to a common neurochemical etiology.