cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A New Brief Measure of Executive Function: Adapting the Head-Toes-Knees-Shoulders Task to Older Adults.

Background and objectives Executive function (EF) abilities are recognized as components of cognition most likely to show age-related declines. Measurement of EF in older adults is often computer-based, takes place in a laboratory setting, and thus lacks ecological validity. We sought to investigate a new way of measuring EF in older adults by adapting a brief, behavioral measure of EF in children, the Head-Toes-Knees-Shoulders task (HTKS). Research design and methods A sample of 150 community-dwelling older adults (Mean age = 68.55, SD = 6.34) completed the HTKS, NIH Toolbox: Cognition Battery (NIHTB-CB) and Positive and Negative Affect Schedule. Results The HTKS showed adequate internal consistency, α = .84. Significant associations between HTKS variables and measures of attention and inhibitory control were robust to the influences of age, processing speed, and subjective health ratings. HTKS completion time exhibited the strongest associations to NIHTB-CB measures, suggesting that the time it takes older adults to complete the HTKS may be a better measure of EF than the total score. Nonsignificant associations between HTKS variables and positive and negative affect demonstrated discriminant validity. Discussion and implications These results provide initial evidence for use of the HTKS as a brief, low-cost, easy to administer measure of EF in older adults. Further research is needed to determine its potential to identify individuals at risk for poor cognitive outcomes. A brief, valid measure may allow for wider screenings aimed at early intervention, when cognitive interventions are most effective.
Reconfiguration in Hierarchical Control of Piecewise-Affine Systems

The In this paper the problem of reconfiguration in hierarchical control of piecewise-affine systems in discrete time is considered as the choice of input constraints applied to the low-level control. It is shown how such reconfiguration can provide fault-tolerance to actuator faults while reducing the computational complexity of low-level control. The approach is based on partitioning the state space while taking into account multiple possibilities for the inputs available to low-level control. A so-called "reconfiguration database" is computed at design-time which determines the input constraints that provide for reachability between regions of a state-space partition. This database is used as a basis for reconfiguration decisions at runtime.
Limited spending: an analysis of correctional expenditures on antiretrovirals for HIV-infected prisoners.

Objective Correctional facilities provide a critical opportunity to treat and manage human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and HIV-related complications among inmates. Inmates bear a higher HIV burden than the general population, and many have never received HIV care prior to incarceration. The standard of care in the community and in corrections for the treatment of HIV is highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). This study evaluated U.S. correctional expenditures for antiretrovirals (ARVs) and compared them to the estimated need for ARVs among HIV-infected prisoners in the U.S. to treat this population successfully. Methods The total number of HIV-infected prisoners in the United States was estimated using Bureau of Justice Statistics data. The National Sales Perspectives Audit, Combined Retail and Nonretail, July 1999 to December 2004 was used to estimate correctional ARV expenditures in 2004. Both measures were used to calculate treatment costs for ARV therapy. Results The analysis demonstrates that, in 2004, total ARV sales represented only 29% of the total necessary to treat all HAART eligible inmates with known HIV infection. Conclusion There is a substantial unmet need for ARVs in correctional health care. Although many barriers exist to treating all eligible HIV-infected prisoners, treatment reduces costs associated with HIV-related complications and may encourage linkage to HIV care in the community. Treatment of all eligible HIV-infected inmates should be a public health priority.
Pharmacological modulators of the circadian clock as potential therapeutic drugs: focus on genotoxic/anticancer therapy.

The circadian clock is an evolutionary conserved intrinsic timekeeping mechanism that controls daily variations in multiple biological processes. One important process that is modulated by the circadian clock is an organism’s response to genotoxic stress, such as that induced by anticancer drug and radiation treatments. Numerous observations made in animal models have convincingly demonstrated that drug-induced toxicity displays prominent daily variations; therefore, undesirable side effects could be significantly reduced by administration of drugs at specific times when they are better tolerated. In some cases, these critical times of the day coincide with increased sensitivity of tumor cells allowing for a greater therapeutic index. Despite encouraging results of chronomodulated therapies, our knowledge of molecular mechanisms underlying these observations remains sketchy. Here we review recent progress in deciphering mechanistic links between circadian and stress response pathways with a focus on how these findings could be applied to anticancer clinical practice. We discuss the potential for using high-throughput screens to identify small molecules that can modulate basic parameters of the entire circadian machinery as well as functional activity of its individual components. We also describe the discovery of several small molecules that can pharmacologically modulate clock and that have a potential to be developed into therapeutic drugs. We believe that translational applications of clock-targeting pharmaceuticals are twofold: they may be developed into drugs to treat circadian-related disorders or used in combination with existing therapeutic strategies to improve therapeutic index of a given genotoxic treatment via the intrinsic clock mechanism.
Basic Science of Vaginal Mesh

The use of mesh to treat gynecologic disorders of pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence is widespread. While mesh has provided many women relief of their symptoms and relatively good anatomical outcomes, surgeries employing mesh have had significant complications, resulting in the release of public health notifications, the up-classification of these devices, the discontinuation of mesh products by vendors, and multi-district litigation. To date the precise etiology of mesh complications is unknown; however, basic science research investigating the pathogenesis of mesh complications has increased over the past 10–15 years, and potential mechanisms have been identified. The purpose of this chapter is to provide an overview of the ex vivo and in vivo studies that have shed light on our understanding of the factors that contribute to mesh complications. Specifically, the impact of mesh textiles properties and mechanics on the host response will be explored. Additionally, this chapter will summarize the pertinent in vivo animal and human studies that have investigated the host response to polypropylene-based mesh. Although biological meshes have also been used in the treatment of gynecologic disorders, polypropylene urogynecologic meshes will be the main focus of this text. Lastly, the chapter will conclude with a future perspective of basic science research on urogynecologic meshes.
Metacognition and Emotional Schemas: Effects on Depression and Anxiety

The cognitive attentional syndrome (CAS) is characterized by threat monitoring, repetitive thinking, limitation in cognitive resources, unhelpful control strategies, and continued focus on the content of thinking (Wells 2000, 2002, 2006; Wells & Matthews in Cognition & Emotion, 8(3), 279-295, 1994). An alternative model of worry—the avoidance theory—proposes that worry is reinforced by the temporary decrease in arousal during the activation of “cognitive” or abstract worry (Borkovec et al. 2004; Borkovec and Inz in Behaviour Research and Therapy, 28(2), 153-158, 1990). The current study proposed that metacognitive processes are more likely to be activated if individuals have negative beliefs about emotional experience. Four hundred twenty-five participants completed the Metacognition Questionnaire (MCQ), Leahy Emotional Schema Scale (Leahy in Cognitive and Behavioral Practice, 9(3), 177-190, 2002), BDI-II, and the BAI. Negative beliefs about emotions were significantly correlated with each of the five metacognitive factors and with both depression (BDI-II) and anxiety (BAI). Almost all of the 14 emotional schema dimensions were related to the five metacognitive factors of worry. Mediational analyses suggested that uncontrollability/danger of worry partially mediated the relationship between negative beliefs about emotion and symptoms of anxiety. Similarly, uncontrollability/danger of worry and cognitive competence/confidence partially mediated the relationship between negative beliefs about emotion and symptoms of depression. These findings support metacognitive, avoidance, and emotional schema models by indicating that both metacognitive processes and beliefs about emotion separately contribute to depression and anxiety and that worry appears to be a strategy that is utilized to cope with negative beliefs about emotion.
Placing a lumen-apposing metal stent despite ascites: feasibility and safety.

Background and Aims Placing a lumen-apposing metal stent (LAMS) through ascites carries serious risks, including death from leakage around the LAMS and failure to create a mature fistula between the 2 lumens. However, sometimes no options exist or are equally dangerous. We present 5 patients who underwent LAMS placement despite ascites in 2 different locations. Methods This is a retrospective review of 5 patients who underwent LAMS placement despite ascites in 2 different locations from 2016 to 2018. Results Three patients with cholecystitis and 2 patients with afferent limb syndrome and severe ascites were treated with a combination of preprocedural and intraprocedural paracentesis. Serum ascites albumin gradient was measured. Weight was recorded daily. Patients were encouraged to sleep at an incline, and periodic paracentesis (every 3-7 days) was performed when ascites reaccumulated over 4 weeks. Median volume of ascites aspirated was 2 L preprocedurally and 300 mL intraprocedurally. Only 1 patient had ascites with a high serum ascites albumin gradient and was treated with diuretics. Technical and clinical success was achieved in all 5 patients without any adverse events over a median follow-up of 28 weeks. Conclusions In situations in which no better options remain, LAMS placement appears to be safe after adequate and aggressive treatment of the underlying ascites pre-, intra-, and postprocedurally. Larger studies are needed to establish the safety of this approach.
mSphere of Influence: That's Racist-COVID-19, Biological Determinism, and the Limits of Hypotheses

Kishana Taylor works in the field of virology. In this mSphere of Influence article, she reflects on the personal impact of "Racial health disparities and COVID-19 - caution and context" by Merlin Chowkwanyun and Adolph L. Reed, Jr. (N Engl J Med 383:201-203, 2020, https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMp2012910) and "A hypothesis is a liability" by Itai Yanai and Martin Lercher (Genome Biol 21:231, 2020, https://doi.org/10.1186/s13059-020-02133-w) and how it became part of the mission for Black In Microbiology Week.
Slimium: Debloating the Chromium Browser with Feature Subsetting

Today, a web browser plays a crucial role in offering a broad spectrum of web experiences. The most popular browser, Chromium, has become an extremely complex application to meet ever-increasing user demands, exposing unavoidably large attack vectors due to its large code base. Code debloating attracts attention as a means of reducing such a potential attack surface by eliminating unused code. However, it is very challenging to perform sophisticated code removal without breaking needed functionalities because Chromium operates on a large number of closely connected and complex components, such as a renderer and JavaScript engine. In this paper, we present Slimium, a debloating framework for a browser (i.e., Chromium) that harnesses a hybrid approach for a fast and reliable binary instrumentation. The main idea behind Slimium is to determine a set of features as a debloating unit on top of a hybrid (i.e., static, dynamic, heuristic) analysis, and then leverage feature subsetting to code debloating. It aids in i) focusing on security-oriented features, ii) discarding unneeded code simply without complications, and iii)~reasonably addressing a non-deterministic path problem raised from code complexity. To this end, we generate a feature-code map with a relation vector technique and prompt webpage profiling results. Our experimental results demonstrate the practicality and feasibility of Slimium for 40 popular websites, as on average it removes 94 CVEs (61.4%) by cutting down 23.85 MB code (53.1%) from defined features (21.7% of the whole) in Chromium.
Management of Intracranial Hemorrhage in Patients with a Left Ventricular Assist Device: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Abstract Background Intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) has been reported to occur in up to 23% of patients with left ventricular assist devices (LVADs). Currently, limited data exists to guide neurosurgical management strategies to optimize outcomes in patients with an LVAD who develop ICH. Methods A systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature was performed to evaluate the mortality rate in these patients following medical and/or surgical management and to evaluate antithrombotic reversal and resumption strategies after hemorrhage. Results 17 studies reporting on 3869 LVAD patients and 545 intracranial hemorrhages spanning investigative periods from 1996 to 2019 were included. The rate of ICH in LVAD patients was 10.6% (411/3869) with 58.6% (231/394) being intraparenchymal hemorrhage (IPH), 23.6% (93/394) subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), and 15.5% (61/394) subdural hemorrhage (SDH). Total mortality rates for surgical management 65.6% (40/61) differed from medical management at 45.2% (109/241). There was an increased relative risk of mortality (RR=1.45, 95% CI: 1.10–1.91, p = 0.01) for ICH patients undergoing surgical intervention. The hemorrhage subtype most frequently managed with anticoagulation reversal was IPH 81.8% (63/77), followed by SDH 52.2% (12/23), and SAH 39.1% (18/46). Mean number of days until antithrombotic resumption ranged from 6 to 10.5 days. Conclusion Outcomes remain poor, specifically for those undergoing surgery. As experience with this population increases, prospective studies are warranted to contribute to management and prognostication .
Social determinants of health and cancer mortality in the Reasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS) cohort study.

BACKGROUND Social determinants of health (SDOHs) cluster together and can have deleterious impacts on health outcomes. Individually, SDOHs increase the risk of cancer mortality, but their cumulative burden is not well understood. The authors sought to determine the combined effect of SDOH on cancer mortality. METHODS Using the Reasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS) cohort, the authors studied 29,766 participants aged 45+ years and followed them 10+ years. Eight potential SDOHs were considered, and retained SDOHs that were associated with cancer mortality (P < .10) were retained to create a count (0, 1, 2, 3+). Cox proportional hazard models estimated associations between the SDOH count and cancer mortality through December 31, 2017, adjusting for confounders. Models were age-stratified (45-64 vs 65+ years). RESULTS Participants were followed for a median of 10.6 years (interquartile range [IQR], 6.5, 12.7 years). Low education, low income, zip code poverty, poor public health infrastructure, lack of health insurance, and social isolation were significantly associated with cancer mortality. In adjusted models, among those <65 years, compared to no SDOHs, having 1 SDOH (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 1.39; 95% CI, 1.11-1.75), 2 SDOHs (aHR, 1.61; 95% CI, 1.26-2.07), and 3+ SDOHs (aHR, 2.09; 95% CI, 1.58-2.75) were associated with cancer mortality (P for trend <.0001). Among individuals 65+ years, compared to no SDOH, having 1 SDOH (aHR, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.00-1.35) and 3+ SDOHs (aHR, 1.26; 95% CI, 1.04-1.52) was associated with cancer mortality (P for trend = .032). CONCLUSIONS A greater number of SDOHs were significantly associated with an increased risk of cancer mortality, which persisted after adjustment for confounders.
Integrating Natural Resources Education and Citizen Science Communication through the Use of Unmanned Aerial Systems (Drones)

Science communication is increasing through the use of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) or drones. Within the Arthur Temple College of Forestry and Agriculture at Stephen F. Austin State University (SFASU), UASs such as the DJI Phantom 4 Pro and Mavic Mini2 drones were used by students and faculty to study mistletoe, crapemyrtle and fire ants and then drone images were uploaded to iNaturalist, the largest repository for flora and fauna specimens to share with the scientific community and general public. The benefits of using a UAS is that nadir (directly above) images of the specimens increase the locational accuracy of each specimen compared to distance images acquired from a smartphone. By incorporating drones into course works at SFASU, faculty are increasing the technological abilities of students to communicate natural resource information to a greater audience as a citizen scientist. With ever increasing capabilities and lower cost, UAS are becoming a viable alternative to smartphones for communication of science, especially for iNaturalist. The ability to communicate science information and display images adds a dimension for the citizen scientist to use a UAS in teaching and information exchange while creating a well-rounded, better informed, and more employable student upon graduation.
Translational Photoacoustic Microscopy

Photoacoustic microscopy (PAM), combining the advantages of optical excitation and of acoustic detection, has been widely used for both structural and functional imaging with scalable resolution and penetration in biological tissues. In this chapter, we provide a detailed discussion on PAM in translational studies. We first summarize the principles and major implementations of this technology. Then we introduce the state of the art in translational PAM, including studies on burns, peripheral arterial occlusive disease, eye disease, diabetic microvascular complications, pain, melanoma, gastrointestinal tract disease, and the brain. Finally, we discuss the major challenges and future directions of translational PAM.
Long-term cardioprotection with phosphodiesterase-5 inhibition against ischemia-reperfusion injury: Role of nitric oxide.

LONG-TERM CARDIOPROTECTION WITH PHOSPHODIESTERASE-5 INHIBITION AGAINST ISCHEMIA-REPERFUSION INJURY: ROLE OF NITRIC OXIDE By Vladimir Paul Daoud A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science at Virginia Commonwealth University. Virginia Commonwealth University, 2005 Major Director: Rakesh C. Kukreja, Ph.D. Professor School of Medicine Recent studies have shown that the potent phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibitor, sildenafil citrate, induces a powerful cardioprotective effect against ischemia-reperfusion (IIR) injury in rabbit and mouse hearts. However, the effect of this drug in inducing longterm protection against VR injury remains unknown. The goal of this study was to identify the duration of the protective window of sildenafil citrate as well as vardenafil, a more potent PDE-5 inhibitor. Rabbits were treated with sildenafil (0.7 mg/kg, iv), vardenafil (0.143 mglkg), or an equivalent volume of saline. After 24 hrs, 48 hrs, 96 hrs, or 7 days of
The Effects of Technology on Online Education.

AbstractAs new technologies become more commonplace in the support of instruction, new questions are being raised concerning the effectiveness of traditional pedagogical methods and learning environments. Traditionally, distance education became synonymous with correspondence courses. Today, however the designer of online learning programs has a myriad of choices ranging from synchronous to asynchronous delivery systems. In addition, research on the effects of distance learning systems has traditionally focused on student outcomes. Given the complexities of online education, research into this new domain of instructional delivery should take a variety of forms and seek to answer a wide range of questions. This article illustrates the need for greater complexity in basic research on online education programs by exploring the effects of two different delivery technologies on the nature of interaction.
Assessment of Survey Data for the Analysis of Marriage and Divorce at the National, State, and Local Levels

This report examines the feasibility and potential benefits of using existing survey data sets to provide reliable, timely information on marriage and divorce. It assesses the ability of a variety of data sets to produce marriage and divorce statistics at the national, state, and local levels. The main criterion is whether the existing survey data sets provide or can be modified to provide information on marriage and divorce rates, as was collected under the vital statistics system. To identify survey data sets that have the greatest potential for collecting marriage and divorce statistics, the research team established five evaluation criteria. These criteria are used to assess the surveys’ overall relevance and potential for providing marriage and divorce rates over time. The criteria are: (1) relevancy — survey data can be used to calculate marriage and divorce rates, (2) reliability — survey design is likely to provide estimates of marriage and divorce rates that match an external source, (3) representativeness — survey captures broad U.S. population and survey provides state and/or local level estimates, (4) ongoing — survey is planned to continue into foreseeable future, and (5) contains correlates of interest — survey includes correlates and outcomes of interest to research and policy communities. Based on these criteria, three data sets are identified as having the greatest potential for measuring marriage and divorce statistics. These data sets are: 1) The American Community Survey (ACS); 2) The National Survey of Family Growth (NSFG); and 3) The Survey of Income and Program Participation (SIPP).
The stratigraphy of mass extinction

Patterns of last occurrences of fossil species are often used to infer the tempo and timing of mass extinction, even though last occurrences generally precede the time of extinction. Numerical simulations with constant extinction demonstrate that last occurrences are not randomly distributed, but tend to cluster at subaerial unconformities, surfaces of forced regression, flooding surfaces and intervals of stratigraphical condensation, all of which occur in predictable stratigraphical positions. This clustering arises not only from hiatuses and non-deposition, but also from changes in water depth. Simulations with intervals of elevated extinction cause such clusters of last occurrences to be enhanced within and below the interval of extinction, suggesting that the timing and magnitude of extinctions in these instances could be misinterpreted. With the possible exception of the end-Cretaceous, mass extinctions in the fossil record are characterized by clusters of last occurrences at these sequence stratigraphical horizons. Although these clusters of last occurrences may represent brief pulses of elevated extinction, they are equally likely to form by stratigraphical processes during a protracted period (more than several hundred thousand years) of elevated extinction rate. Geochemical proxies of extinction causes are also affected similarly, suggesting that many local expressions of mass extinction should be re-evaluated for the timing of extinction and its relation to environmental change. We propose three tests for distinguishing pulses of extinction from clusters of last occurrences produced by stratigraphical processes.
Adhesion Dynamics on the Line: The Mass Aggregation Process

This paper studies several problems in adhesion dynamics on the real line. We consider an ensemble of particles with i.i.d. initial velocities. In the gravitational case, we identify a shock time and describe several aspects of the mass aggregation process before, at and after this time. We also study the long time behavior of the ballistic aggregation process.
OBJ as a Theorem Prover with Applications to Hardware Verification

This paper states, justifies, and illustrates some new techniques for proving theorems with a functional programming language, like OBJ, that has a rigorous algebraic semantics. These techniques avoid the complexities of both higher order logic and Knuth-Bendix completion, and instead support a style of user interaction in which: (1) OBJ’s powerful reduction engine does the routine work automatically, in such a way that partially successful proofs return information that often suggests what to try next; and (2) OBJ’s flexible facilities for hierarchical and generic modules describe complex proof strategies in a style that is familiar from experience with programming languages. New results in this paper include: a simple extension of first order equational logic that allows universal quantification over functions instead of just over ground elements; a technique for eliminating both first and second order universal quantifiers; a completeness theorem; a technique for transforming conditional equations to unconditional equations; some very useful structural induction principles; and some techniques for reasoning about parameterized modules. These tools for reasoning about (first order) functions are powerful enough to justify algorithms that automatically generate OBJ code for verifying some rather broad classes of (second order) assertions. The paper features some hardware verification examples, but also includes some inductive proofs for the natural numbers and an OBJ-style parameterized module verification. Parameterized module verification supports a flexible style of proof reuse, and this example also illustrates the rigorous treatment of exceptions in OBJ. The hardware verification examples illustrate what seems a very promising approach to both combinational and sequential circuits, using standard gates and/or bidirectional components (such as MOS transistors), possibly with “don’t care” conditions. Order sorted algebra plays an important role in many of the examples.
Enabling Interoperable Space Robots With the Joint Technical Architecture for Robotic Systems (JTARS)

Robots that operate independently of one another will not be adequate to accomplish the future exploration tasks of long-distance autonomous navigation, habitat construction, resource discovery, and material handling. Such activities will require that systems widely share information, plan and divide complex tasks, share common resources, and physically cooperate to manipulate objects. Recognizing the need for interoperable robots to accomplish the new exploration initiative, NASA s Office of Exploration Systems Research & Technology recently funded the development of the Joint Technical Architecture for Robotic Systems (JTARS). JTARS charter is to identify the interface standards necessary to achieve interoperability among space robots. A JTARS working group (JTARS-WG) has been established comprising recognized leaders in the field of space robotics including representatives from seven NASA centers along with academia and private industry. The working group s early accomplishments include addressing key issues required for interoperability, defining which systems are within the project s scope, and framing the JTARS manuals around classes of robotic systems.
Consequences of acute and long-term removal of neuromodulatory input on the episodic gastric rhythm of the crab, Cancer borealis

For decades, the episodic gastric rhythm of the crustacean stomatogastric nervous system (STNS) has served as an important model system for understanding the generation of rhythmic motor behaviors....
The physical symbol system hypothesis: status and prospects

I analyze some of the attacks against the Physical Symbol System Hypothesis--attacks based on the presumed need for symbol-grounding and non-symbolic processing for intelligent behavior and on the supposed non-computational and "mindless" aspects of brains.
Measures of assurance and opportunity in modeling uncertain information

Our focus is on the representation of uncertain information using set measures. We first discuss the basic properties of monotonic set measures. We then discuss the appropriateness of their use in modeling uncertain information. We look at some notable types of measures of uncertain information and investigate in considerable detail cardinality-based measures. We look at the Sugeno measure and provide a formulation of the underlying cardinality-based measures. We then look at quasi-additive uncertainty measures. We discuss the entropy and attitudinal character of an uncertainty measure. Finally, we introduce the ideas of the assurance and opportunity of the occurrence of an outcome. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Technical Report #MII-3106R.)
Role of early surgical decompression of the intradural space after cervical spinal cord injury in an animal model.

Background: The role of decompressing the intradural space through a durotomy as a treatment option for acute traumatic cervical spinal cord injury has not been explored in an animal model, to our knowledge. We sought to determine the role of durotomy and duraplasty in the treatment of acute cervical spinal cord injury and its effects on inflammation, scar formation, and functional recovery. Methods: Seventy-two adult female Sprague-Dawley rats were assigned to three groups: contusion injury alone, contusion injury with a decompressive durotomy, and contusion injury with a decompressive durotomy followed by placement of a dural allograft. A mild (200-kdyn [2-N]) contusive injury was delivered to the exposed spinal cord at C5. The injured segment was reexposed four hours after injury, and a durotomy with decompression was performed. When a dural allograft was used it was affixed to the surrounding intact dura with use of a fibrin sealant. The Grip Strength Meter was used to assess forelimb function. Animals were killed at two and four weeks, and immunohistochemical analysis was performed to assess scar formation, inflammatory cell infiltration, and lesional volume. Results: Immunohistochemical analysis revealed increased scar formation, cavitation, and inflammatory response in the animals treated only with a decompressive durotomy. Relative to the group with a contusion injury alone, the animals treated with a durotomy followed by a dural allograft had decreased cavitation and scar formation. Lesional volume measurements showed a significantly increased cavitation size at four weeks in both the contusion-only (mean and standard deviation, 12.6 ± 0.5 mm3) and durotomy-only (15.1 ± 1 mm3) groups relative to the animals that had received a dural allograft following durotomy (6.8 ± 1.4 mm3). Conclusions: Functional recovery after acute cervical spinal cord injury was better in animals treated with decompression of the intradural space and placement of a dural allograft than it was in animals treated with decompression alone. These functional data correlated directly with histological evidence of a decrease in spinal cord cavitation, inflammation, and scar formation. Clinical Relevance: Surgical decompression of the intradural space followed by dural allografting after an acute traumatic cervical spinal cord injury may be an important approach to reducing the deficits resulting from the secondary injury and warrants further investigation.
Infrared dipole-coupled bolometer response on a hemispherical silicon immersion lens

Abstract Response of an infrared (λ = 10.6 μm) dipole antenna-coupled bolometer fabricated at the center of the flat side of a hemispherical silicon immersion lens is presented. Predicted and measured antenna patterns as well as the ratio of power from the lens-side to the air-side are provided as a function of illumination F/#. The power-division ratio, Φlens/Φair, is shown to be given by the square root of the lens dielectric constant, ϵ Si 1 / 2 = 3.4 , for F/# larger than F/2 whereas as F/# decreases to F/1 the ratio increases to 5 due to off-axis features in the radiation pattern.
A laser microbeam study of amoeboid movement.

Specimens of Amoeba proteus and Chaos carolinensis were vitally stained with Alcian blue and subjected to pulsed laser microbeam irradiation in the flux density range of 0.5–4.0 joules/cm2. Sublytic doses of microbeam irradiation influenced streaming and cell movement only in vitally stained cells and when delivered to the frontal regions of pseudopodia. The effect was temporary, as streaming resumed after some seconds. Exposure of the uroid to similar amounts of radiation undoubtedly had a stronger heating effect because of greater dye accumulation in the uroid; however, there was no detectable instantaneous or delayed effect of irradiation of the uroid. Higher doses of irradiation in Marshall's medium cause rupture of the plasmalemma and rapid flow of cytoplasm from the point of injury, irrespective of its location, followed in 1.0–1.2 sec by an elastic recoil. The initial rapid flow toward the wound was apparently caused by a slightly higher hydrostatic pressure within the cell because it was reduced in 0.25 M sucrose. When the uroid was suddenly opened to the sucrose medium by a lytic dose of microbeam irradiation, cytoplasm continued to flow into extending pseudopodia. Present results are not only consistent with the frontal contraction theory, but indicate that it is unnecessary to postulate an additional contraction of the uroid as a contributing factor in steady-state amoeboid movement. The results in addition shed some light on the speed of the surface precipitation reaction in wound-healing, on the existence of an internal hydrostatic pressure but not a pressure gradient along the axis of movement and on the viscoelastic properties of the cytoplasm.
Preparation of tagged glucose as a key intermediate in the synthesis of branched oligosaccharides

Tagged and activated D-glucose was introduced as a building block for branched oligosaccharides. This building block was the oligosaccharide branching point at which selectively the C-2 followed by the C-3 position can be glycosylated. After the activation of the C-1 position by oxidation of a thiophenyl group, the newly formed tagged oligosaccharide can be used as a glycoside donor. Synthetic procedures for the preparation of phthalimide-based tag molecules as well as tagged monosaccharides are presented.
Preparation and Reactions of Base-Free Bis(1,2,4-tri-tert-butylcyclopentadienyl)uranium Oxide, Cp‘2UO

Reduction of the uranium metallocene [η5-1,2,4-(Me3C)3C5H2]2UCl2 (1), Cp‘2UCl2, in the presence of 2,2‘-bipyridyl and sodium naphthalene gives the dark green metallocene complex Cp‘2U(bipy) (6), which reacts with p-tolyl azide or pyridine-N-oxide to give Cp‘2UN(p-tolyl) (7) or Cp‘2U(O)(py) (8), respectively. The Lewis acid BPh3 precipitates Ph3B(py) and gives the base-free oxo Cp‘2UO (10), which crystallizes from pentane. The oxometallocene 10 behaves as a nucleophile with Me3SiX reagents, but it does not exhibit cycloaddition behavior with acetylenes, suggesting that the polar resonance structure Cp‘2U+−O- dominates the double-bond resonance structure Cp‘2UO.
Surface modification of polyethyleneterephthalate by an atmospheric-pressure plasma source

The modification of polyethyleneterephthalate (PET) surface by an atmospheric-pressure plasma source was investigated. The plasma was generated by a RF discharge at atmospheric pressure using a gas mixture of helium and oxygen. PET strips were exposed to plasma for different durations at the exit of the plasma source. Water contact angles were measured for surfaces modified with different RF powers, oxygen concentrations and exposure durations. The changes of the contact angles of the modified surfaces were monitored as a function of time. The surface modification was determined to be mainly a photochemical and chemical process through the analysis and experiments on ions, ultraviolet photons, oxygen atoms and ozone molecules.
A methodology for analyzing an acoustic scene in sensor arrays

Presented here is a novel clustering method for Hidden Markov Models (HMMs) and its application in acoustic scene analysis. In this method, HMMs are clustered based on a similarity measure for stochastic models defined as the generalized probability product kernel (GPPK), which can be efficiently evaluated according to a fast algorithm introduced by Chen and Man (2005) [1]. Acoustic signals from various sources are partitioned into small frames. Frequency features are extracted from each of the frames to form observation vectors. These frames are further grouped into segments, and an HMM is trained from each of such segments. An unknown segment is categorized with a known event if its HMM has the closest similarity with the HMM from the corresponding labeled segment. Experiments are conducted on an underwater acoustic dataset from Steven Maritime Security Laboratory, Data set contains a swimmer signature, a noise signature from the Hudson River, and a test sequence with a swimmer in the Hudson River. Experimental results show that the proposed method can successfully associate the test sequence with the swimmer signature at very high confidence, despite their different time behaviors.
XPS Study of Highly Sulfonated Polyaniline

Highly sulfonated polyaniline prepared via a synthetic scheme using leucoemeralding base (LEB−SPAN) has been studied using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). A sulfonation level (S/N ratio) as high as 0.80 ± 0.10 has been revealed in XPS analysis, agreeing well with the element chemical analysis results (∼0.78). This contrasts to an S/N ratio of 0.50 for SPAN made via the earlier reported synthetic method. The detailed S 2p and N 1s peak analyses both show that the oxidation level is ∼50%, implying a better thermal stability of emeraldine oxidation state over those of leucoemeraldine and pernigraniline oxidation states. These XPS analysis results are supported by UV−vis and FT-IR analysis results. The method of resolving 2p3/2 and 2p1/2 peaks in the S 2p spectrum is discussed.
THE INFLUENCE OF ECONOMIC FACTORS ON POLICE CRIME RECORDING BEHAVIOR IN THE UNITED STATES BETWEEN 1960 and 1980

This study examines the influence of certain economic factors (inflation, unemployment, credit, competition, profit and inequality), total social welfare expenditures, and total number of full-time officers, derived from a radical theory of police behavior, on police crime recording behavior in the United States between 1960 and 1980. In contrast to previous research, which has failed to provide a single model that explains over fifty percent of the variance in the dependent variable (Sherman, 1980), this study found three models that explain over fifty percent of the variance in police crime recording behavior.
The exploitation of floral nectar in Eucalyptus incrassata by honeyeaters and honeybees.

During October and November, 1977, a study of nectar production and nectarivore foraging in Eucalyptus incrassata was conducted at Wyperfeld National Park in south-eastern Australia in order to evaluate the extent to which introduced honeybees (Apis mellifera) compete with native honeyeaters for floral nectar. Data on nectar production, nectar availability, ambient air temperature and the numbers of visiting honeyeaters and honeybees were collected. Most of the daily nectar production in E. incrassata occurs early in the morning when temperatures are too low for insects to forage. In addition, insects, particularly honeybees, are unable to exploit nectar in the youngest flowers because the stamens are clustered tightly around the style. As a result of these temporal and structural characteristics of the flowers, honeyeaters are able to harvest most of the nectar. Honeybees potentially have access to 35–47% of the average daily production of floral nectar in E. incrassata and actually harvest considerably less. These data show that E. incrassata flowers are adapted to restrict insect foragers despite their superficially unspecialized appearance. Eight forest and woodland eucalypts do not have a flower stage which excludes insects and the significance of this difference is discussed.
Enzymatic synthesis of chiral hydroxy compounds using immobilized glucose dehydrogenase from Bacillus cereus for NAD(P)H regeneration

Immobilized thermostable glucose dehydrogenase from the mesophile Bacillus cereus has been prepared and used to catalyze the regeneration of NAD(P)H in enzymatic syntheses. The thermal stability of the immobilized enzyme in aqueous buffer containing NaCl is about 50,000 times that of the free enzyme. The half-life of the enzyme at 60°C is 30 minutes for the free form and more than 30 days for the immobilized form. We have used this cofactor regeneration system in the synthesis of a number of useful chiral hydroxy compounds.
Evidence for leucine-enkephalin immunoreactive neurons in the medulla which project to spinal cord in squirrel monkey.

Abstract Rhodamine-labeled latex microsphere injections were combined with horserasish peroxidase immunohistochemistry in squirrel monkeys to reveal neurons in the medullary raphe and medial reticular formation which projected to spinal cord and were positive for leucine-enkephalin-like immunoreactivity. Double-labeled cells were found primarily in nucleus raphe magnus, the reticular nucleus magnocellularis, and the lateral reticular nucleus. These results provide evidence for a descending projection from enkephalin-containing cells of the rostral ventral medulla, a region which has been strongly implicated in antinociception.
Interparental aggression and parent-adolescent salivary alpha amylase symmetry.

Abstract The present study examined salivary alpha amylase (sAA), a putative marker of adrenergic activity, in family members engaging in family conflict discussions. We examined symmetry among family members' sAA levels at baseline and in response to a conflict discussion. The relation between a history of interparental aggression on parent–adolescent sAA symmetry also was examined. Participants were 62 families with a mother, father, and biological child age 13–18 ( n = 29 girls). After engaging in a relaxation procedure, families participated in a 15-minute triadic family conflict discussion. Participants provided saliva samples at post-relaxation/pre-discussion, immediately post-discussion, and at 10 and 20 min post-discussion. Participants also reported on interparental physical aggression during the previous year. Across the sample we found evidence of symmetry between mothers' and adolescents' sAA levels at baseline and around the discussion. Interparental aggression was associated with lower sAA levels among fathers. Interparental aggression also affected patterns of parent–child sAA response symmetry such that families reporting interparental aggression exhibited greater father–adolescent sAA symmetry than did those with no reports of interparental aggression. Among families with no interparental aggression history, we found consistent mother–adolescent symmetry. These differences suggest different patterns of parent–adolescent physiological attunement among families with interparental aggression.
Eritrea: a country in transition

This article raises questions about the future prospects for the economic and political transition in Eritrea today, for peace and cooperation in the Horn and for the ‘nation‐state’ in Africa. It does this against the historical background of an illegally federated state and 30 years of armed struggle leading to an EPLF victory and the 1993 referendum.
Hyperfine interactions and magnetic ordering temperatures of amorphous FexPd80-xSi20 with low Fe concentrations☆

Abstract Amorphous FexPd80-xSi20 (0.4 ⩽ x ⩽ 7) exhibit characteristics of a spin glass system. The magnetic ordering temperatures (T0) of 3.5 K, 13 K, 19 K and 26 K have been determined for samples with x = 1, 3, 5 and 7 respectively. These values can be approximately described by the relation of T0 = Axn. The hyperfine field, extrapolated to T = 0 K, varies as Heff(0) = (235 + 3x) kOe.
Nonexistence of global solutions of □u = F(utt) and of □v = F′(vt)vtt in three space dimensions

The symbol □ denotes the operator δ2/δ2- Δ in three space dimensions, and F denotes a function with F(0) = F'(0) = 0, inf F" > 0. It is shown that u(x,t) ≡ 0, if □u = F(u tt) for xeR3, t ≥ 0, provided u, ut, utt for t = 0 have compact support. Similarly v(x,t) ≡ 0 if □v = F'(vt)vtt for xeR3, t ≥ 0, provided v,vt for t = 0 have compact support and satisfy ∫[vt-F(vt)]dx ≥ 0. This shows that the global existence theorem proved by S. L. Klainerman [(1980) Commun. Pure Appl. Math. 33, in press] in more than five space dimensions is not valid for three dimensions. The theorems also imply instability at rest of certain hyperelastic materials.
US institute develops improved method of water desalination

This brief feature provides details of what is claimed to be a breakthrough in water desalination. Developed at the New Jersey Institute of Technology, the team of scientists behind the technique says that engineers will be able to use it to recover water from brine with the highest salt concentration.
Rest and exercise right and left ventricular function late after the Mustard operation: assessment by radionuclide ventriculography.

Abstract To evaluate ventricular function late after atrial repair of transposition of the great arteries (TGA), 26 asymptomatic patients had rest and exercise radionuclide ventriculography performed a mean of 9 years (range 5 to 15) after undergoing the Mustard operation. The mean resting right (systemic) ventricular (RV) ejection fraction (EF) was 0.50 ± 0.10 (±1 standard deviation); the RVEF was The mean resting left (pulmonary) ventricular (LV) EF was 0.58 ± 0.09; the LVEF was The patient's age, operative age, postoperative interval, residual arterial desaturation, preoperative large ventricular septal defect or pulmonary stenosis, postoperative pulmonary stenosis or superior vena caval obstruction, or performance of a second open-heart procedure was predictive of the rest or exercise EF of either ventricle.
A sodium-pump defect in diabetic peripheral nerve corrected by sorbinil administration: Relationship to myo-inositol metabolism and nerve conduction slowing

Abstract Nerve conduction slowing, a hallmark of both experimental and human diabetic neuropathy, is improved or corrected by aldose reductase inhibitors such as sorbinil. Recent animal experiments attribute acutely reversible nerve conduction slowing in diabetes to a myo -inositol (MI) -related defect in the nerve Na-K-ATPase (which generates the transmembrane sodium and potassium potentials necessary for nerve impulse conduction and the sodium gradient necessary for sodium-dependent uptake of substrates). This MI-related abnormality in Na-K-ATPase function is currently viewed as a cyclic, metabolic defect involving sequential alteration of Na-dependent MI uptake, MI content, MI incorporation into membrane phospholipids, and phospholipid-dependent Na-K-ATPase function in peripheral nerve. Aldose reductase inhibitors have been shown to normalize both nerve MI content and nerve Na-K-ATPase activity. These observations suggest that the acute effects of aldose reductase inhibitors on nerve conduction in both diabetic animals and patients may be mediated by correction of an underlying MI-related nerve Na-K-ATPase defect. Furthermore, this sorbinil-corrected Na-K-ATPase defect in diabetic nerve may contribute to other biochemical, functional, and structural abnormalities present in patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy.