cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Reflections on Death by Spiritually Mature Elders

Beliefs and feelings about death are excerpted from interviews conducted with elderly English men and women, who were viewed as spiritually mature by those in their community. Respondents reported a wide range of beliefs about death, reflecting their personal experience, but none reported fear of death. Subtle sex differences were noted: men tended to picture death in spatial terms, of moving into a new dimension, while women tended to describe death in terms of relationships. Overall the respondents indicated that they placed a positive value on death, viewing it as a continuation of, and source of meaning for their present life.
Optimal compliant-surface jumping: A multi-segment model of springboard standing jumps

A multi-segment model is used to investigate optimal compliant-surface jumping strategies and is applied to springboard standing jumps. The human model has four segments representing the feet, shanks, thighs, and trunk-head-arms. A rigid bar with a rotational spring on one end and a point mass on the other end (the tip) models the springboard. Board tip mass, length, and stiffness are functions of the fulcrum setting. Body segments and board tip are connected by frictionless hinge joints and are driven by joint torque actuators at the ankle, knee, and hip. One constant (maximum isometric torque) and three variable functions (of instantaneous joint angle, angular velocity, and activation level) determine each joint torque. Movement from a nearly straight motionless initial posture to jump takeoff is simulated. The objective is to find joint torque activation patterns during board contact so that jump height can be maximized. Minimum and maximum joint angles, rates of change of normalized activation levels, and contact duration are constrained. Optimal springboard jumping simulations can reasonably predict jumper vertical velocity and jump height. Qualitatively similar joint torque activation patterns are found over different fulcrum settings. Different from rigid-surface jumping where maximal activation is maintained until takeoff, joint activation decreases near takeoff in compliant-surface jumping. The fulcrum-height relations in experimental data were predicted by the models. However, lack of practice at non-preferred fulcrum settings might have caused less jump height than the models' prediction. Larger fulcrum numbers are beneficial for taller/heavier jumpers because they need more time to extend joints.
Exploring Ecosystems from the Inside: How Immersive Multi-user Virtual Environments Can Support Development of Epistemologically Grounded Modeling Practices in Ecosystem Science Instruction

Recent reform efforts and the next generation science standards emphasize the importance of incorporating authentic scientific practices into science instruction. Modeling can be a particularly challenging practice to address because modeling occurs within a socially structured system of representation that is specific to a domain. Further, in the process of modeling, experts interact deeply with domain-specific content knowledge and integrate modeling with other scientific practices in service of a larger investigation. It can be difficult to create learning experiences enabling students to engage in modeling practices that both honor the position of the novice along a spectrum toward more expert understanding and align well with the practices and reasoning used by experts in the domain. In this paper, we outline the challenges in teaching modeling practices specific to the domain of ecosystem science, and we present a description of a curriculum built around an immersive virtual environment that offers unique affordances for supporting student engagement in modeling practices. Illustrative examples derived from pilot studies suggest that the tools and context provided within the immersive virtual environment helped support student engagement in modeling practices that are epistemologically grounded in the field of ecosystem science.
Comparison of experiments in statistical decision problems with fuzzy utilities

The choice of an optimal action in a decision-making problem involving fuzzy utilities has been reduced in most previous studies to modeling the fuzzy utilities and the expected fuzzy utility and selecting a technique for ranking fuzzy numbers that fits the situation. A new element is incorporated in the decision problem, namely, the sample information supplied by a random experiment associated with the decision problem. This element, along with the use of fuzzy random variables to model fuzzy utilities and an appropriate fuzzy preference relation, makes it possible to extend, in the Bayesian framework, the concept of expected value of sample information (or gain in expected fuzzy utility due to knowledge of sample information). A criterion for comparing random experiments associated with the problem is established, and some properties confirming its suitability are analyzed. An example illustrates the application of the procedure. The criterion is contrasted with the pattern criterion based on Blackwell's concept of statistical 'sufficiency'. >
Unique Role of the WD-40 Repeat Protein 5 (WDR5) Subunit within the Mixed Lineage Leukemia 3 (MLL3) Histone Methyltransferase Complex.

The MLL3 (mixed lineage leukemia 3) protein is a member of the human SET1 family of histone H3 lysine 4 methyltransferases and contains the conserved WDR5 interaction (Win) motif and the catalytic suppressor of variegation, enhancer of zeste, trithorax (SET) domain. The human SET1 family includes MLL1–4 and SETd1A/B, which all interact with a conserved subcomplex containing WDR5, RbBP5, Ash2L, and DPY-30 (WRAD) to form the minimal core complex required for full methyltransferase activity. However, recent evidence suggests that the WDR5 subunit may not be utilized in an identical manner within all SET1 family core complexes. Although the roles of WDR5 within the MLL1 core complex have been extensively studied, not much is known about the roles of WDR5 in other SET1 family core complexes. In this investigation, we set out to characterize the roles of the WDR5 subunit in the MLL3 core complex. We found that unlike MLL1, the MLL3 SET domain assembles with the RbBP5/Ash2L heterodimer independently of the Win motif-WDR5 interaction. Furthermore, we observed that WDR5 inhibits the monomethylation activity of the MLL3 core complex, which is dependent on the Win motif. We also found evidence suggesting that the WRAD subcomplex catalyzes weak H3K4 monomethylation within the context of the MLL3 core complex. Furthermore, solution structures of the MLL3 core complex assembled with and without WDR5 by small angle x-ray scattering show similar overall topologies. Together, this work demonstrates a unique role for WDR5 in modulating the enzymatic activity of the MLL3 core complex.
Isolation and Partial Characterization of A Gene from Trachea of Manduca sexta That Requires and Is Negatively Regulated by Ecdysteroids

Abstract The molting cycle in insects is regulated by the fluctuating levels of ecdysteroids. Twenty-four hours prior to the pupal molt in Manduca sexta steroid titers are relatively high and they fall to very low levels at 4 hr before the molt. Several physiological events accompanying molts have been shown to require the rise and then the subsequent decline of ecdysteroid levels. These events also require the expression of a new set of genes. We used subtractive hybridization to isolate genes that are expressed 4 hr, but not 24 hr, prior to the pupal molt in the nervous system of Manduca. These genes are expected to play a role either in ecdysis behavior or in the development of pupal/adult structures. The first such gene we have identified, esr20 (EcdySteroid Regulated) encodes a 20-kDa protein. The deduced amino acid sequence of the protein shows similarity to acidic domains in three unrelated proteins, chick nucleolin, rat heavy-molecular-weight neurofilament, and the Drosophila steroid orphan receptor, knirps-related. The similarity among the four proteins appears to be in regions implicated in protein-protein interactions. The accumulation of esr20 mRNA starts 16 hr prior to the pupal molt and abruptly steps at ecdysis. Expression of esr20 was localized to tracheal epithelial cells within all tissue types, and the transcript was present prior to the larval, pupal, and adult molts only after the molting peak of ecdysteroids had declined. Its expression was inhibited in the presence of ecdysteroids in vitro and required protein synthesis.
Modulation of Delta Subunit-Containing GABAA Receptors by Etomidate Depends on Subunit Arrangement

Background: GABAA receptors are allosterically modulated by a variety of compounds including etomidate and tetrahydrodeoxycorticosterone (THDOC). Extrasynaptic αβδ GABAA receptors mediate tonic inhibition, and may be more sensitive to modulators than synaptic αβγ receptors. Studies of concatenated subunit assemblies suggests that the subunit arrangement of αβδ may vary (1). We compared the modulation by etomidate and THDOC on α1β3δ receptors with different subunit arrangements, and to α1β3γ2L receptors. Methods: Plasmids encoding concatenated GABAA receptor subunit assemblies and free subunits were obtained from Prof. Erwin Sigel (Bern, Switzerland). Xenopus oocytes were used to express β3-α1-δ/β3-α1 and β3-α1-δ/α1-β3 receptors as well as free subunit mixtures. Effects of etomidate (3 μM) or THDOC (1 μM) on maximal GABA-activated receptor currents were measured using two-microelectrode voltage-clamp electrophysiology. Etomidate enhancement of β3-α1-δ/β3-α1 was assessed over a broad [GABA] range, and analyzed with an allosteric model.Results: High GABA elicited small currents in oocytes expressing β3-α1-δ/β3-α1 and β3-α1-δ/α1-β3 receptors. THDOC produced similar large current enhancements in β3-α1-δ/β3-α1 and β3-α1-δ/α1-β3 receptors. However, etomidate produced a greater current enhancement in β3-α1-δ/α1-β3 receptors than in β3-α1-δ/β3-α1. Etomidate increased the maximal response of β3-α1-δ/β3-α1 receptors to GABA and produced a small leftward shift in GABA EC50.Discussion: using concatenated receptor constructs resulted in evidence of δ subunit incorporation that was not seen using free subunit mRNAs. GABA is a weak partial agonist in α1β3δ receptors, while etomidate and THDOC modulate via different sites. Etomidate efficacy in α1β3δ is similar to that in α1β3γ receptors with homologous subunit arrangement, and interactions at β3/β3 interfaces may be more efficacious than those at β3/α1 interfaces.Support: NIH (R01GM89745 and P01GM58448)Reference:1) Kaur KH et al, J. Biol Chem 2009;284:7889-96
Osteochondromas of the spine

Osteochondromas are common developmental benign bone lesions, which rarely involve the spine. In a narrow space, such as the spinal canal, they may potentially lead to serious complications. Moreover, because this condition is fairly rare in the spine, it may be confused with other entities. The objective of this review is to describe the typical imaging findings of this rare, but occasionally significant condition of the spine.
Medications Development for Opioid Abuse

Here we describe methods for preclinical evaluation of candidate medications to treat opioid abuse and dependence. Our perspective is founded on the propositions that (1) drug self-administration procedures provide the most direct method for assessment of medication effects, (2) procedures that assess choice between opioid and nondrug reinforcers are especially useful, and (3) the states of opioid dependence and withdrawal profoundly influence both opioid reinforcement and the effects of candidate medications. Effects of opioid medications on opioid choice in nondependent and opioid-dependent subjects are reviewed. Various nonopioid medications have also been examined, but none yet have been identified that safely and reliably reduce opioid choice. Future research will focus on (1) strategies for increasing safety and/or effectiveness of opioid medications, and (2) continued development of nonopioids such as inhibitors of endocannabinoid catabolic enzymes or inhibitors of opioid-induced glial activation.
Research Authority in the Age of Google: Equilibrium Sought

The development of the web caused a major shift in the relationship of students, instructors, and librarians to information. Students gained newfound authority as savvy, experienced users of technology, and the web in particular. Students often perceived any results as search success. Librarians' role as gate-keepers to information is more vital than ever. Though the academic value of user-authenticated information is still a topic of some debate, there is a growing acceptance of these resources. Academic librarians in particular serve as the counterweight in the new research equilibrium. Librarians continue to do what they have long done, that is, provide a meaningful context for research and provide a kind of nuanced, empathetic, thoughtful help no online search tool can provide.
Pre-reconstruction Restoration Of SPECT Projection Images With A Neural Network

In single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) the projection images obtained at view angles surrounding the patient are degraded due to the geometric response of the imaging system (a spatially-variant blur), Compton scatter, Poisson noise, and other factors. Various methods have been proposed for compensating for the spatially varying geometric response of the camera. Here the authors examine restoration of SPECT projection images using an artificial neural network. A three layer feedforward neural network is trained to compute the spatially-variant standard deviations of a symmetric Gaussian blur. A Hopfield network is then used to restore the projection images in which the restoration problem is formulated as a minimization of an error function of the network. Results from applying this restoration procedure on SPECT projection images are presented and the resulting SPECT reconstructions are analysed. >
Evaluation and selection of adaptive traffic control strategies on transportation networks: Decision support tool based on geographic information system

With numerous adaptive signal strategies to choose from and the ever-increasing cost of deploying new technologies, transportation professionals need to carefully determine the optimal locations of specific adaptive signal control strategies to maximize their benefits. An interoperable decision support system that not only recommends the best network location for deployment but also provides a seamless data exchange between various data sources will be extremely helpful. The development of a prototype geographic information system- (GIS-) based decision support system (DSS) to address some of these issues is presented. A novel software bridge is implemented to ensure data exchange between the most widely used traffic signal optimization and analysis software, Synchro and the developed GIS-based prototype, the Rutgers Adaptive Signal Control Selection (RASCS) DSS. Integrated modules of this unique GIS-based DSS tool—a macroscopic simulator, a rule-based expert system built up by using various sources, and ...
Community-based habitat restoration program

Summary form only given. As follows: The Restoration Center is working to forge closer ties between NOAA and local constituencies. In FY96, the Restoration Center began a community-based restoration initiative to enable staff to become more directly involved in local habitat restoration activities that benefit NOAA trust resources. To date, this effort provided funds for 20 habitat restoration projects at the local or community level, where the Center participation served as a catalyst or essential element for project implementation. Through community-based restorations, the Center hopes to form strong partnerships with local government agencies and volunteer organizations, as well as promote stewardship and a community conservation ethic for natural resources. The Adobe Creek Fish Passage Project in California is an example of community-based partnership in which a permanent step-pool fish ladder system was constructed to provide passage for steelhead trout past a 12 foot blockage at the base of a culvert. The project involved a partnership with the United Anglers of Casa Grande, California Department of fish and Game, and three Sonoma County Agencies. This solution makes it possible for fish to ascend the perched culvert and continue swimming upstream to spawn. Local high school students are the stewards of the creek and will maintain the fish ladder and monitor its success. Another example is the Duck Creek Project; the restoration of an impaired urban stream in Juneau, Alaska. Salmon no longer reproduce in the creek because of high fine sediment concentrations and low oxygen levels in the spawning gravel. Such conditions typically result from urban development, highway maintenance, runoff, and stream pollution. As part of a joint effort involving community groups, the city of Juneau, the State of Alaska and other federal agencies, the Restoration Center has begun to remove fine sediments and reconfigure the stream channel to enable Duck Creek once again to support the spawning of coho salmon, chum salmon, and cut-throat trout. Much of the work will be done voluntarily.
A climatology of stratospheric polar vortices and anticyclones

[1] United Kingdom Meteorological Office global analyses from 1991 to 2001 are used to create a global climatology of stratospheric polar vortices and anticyclones. New methodologies are developed that identify vortices in terms of evolving three-dimensional (3-D) air masses. A case study illustrates the performance of the identification schemes during February and March of 1999 when a merger of anticyclones led to a stratospheric warming that split the Arctic polar vortex. The 3-D structure and temporal evolution of the Arctic vortex and identified anticyclones demonstrates the algorithm’s ability to capture complicated phenomena. The mean geographical distribution of polar vortex and anticyclone frequency is shown for each season. The frequency distributions illustrate the climatological location and persistence of polar vortices and anticyclones. A counterpart to the Aleutian High is documented in the Southern Hemisphere: the ‘‘Australian High.’’ The temporal evolution of the area occupied by polar vortices and anticyclones in each hemisphere is shown as a function of potential temperature. Large polar vortex area leads to an increase in anticyclone area, which in turn results in a decrease in the size of the polar vortex. During Northern winter and Southern spring, 9 years of daily anticyclone movement are shown on the 1200 K (36 km, 4 hPa) isentropic surface. Preferred locations of anticyclogenesis are related to cross-equatorial flow and weak inertial stability. Regimes of traveling and stationary anticyclones are discussed. INDEX TERMS: 3309 Meteorology and Atmospheric Dynamics: Climatology (1620); 3319 Meteorology and Atmospheric Dynamics: General circulation; 3334 Meteorology and Atmospheric Dynamics: Middle atmosphere dynamics (0341, 0342); KEYWORDS: polar vortex, stratospheric anticyclones
Propagation of fluorescent light.

Background and Objective In general, the remitted fluorescence spectrum is affected by the scattering and absorption properties of tissue. Other important factors are boundary conditions, geometry of the tissue sample, and the quantum yield of tissue fluorophores. Each of these factors is examined through a series of Monte Carlo simulations. Study Design/Materials and Methods Monte Carlo modeling is used to simulate the propagation of excitation light and the resulting fluorescence. Remitted fluorescence is determined for semi-infinite single and multiple layer geometries and for cubic geometries representing small tissue samples. Monte Carlo results are compared to approximations obtained with a heuristic model. Results Remitted fluorescence as a function of (1) the depth of fluorescence generation and (2) radial escape position is presented for semi-infinite single and multiple layer geometries. Fluorescence from a small tissue sample is simulated in terms of a cubic geometry, and losses from the sides and bottom are presented as a function of cube dimensions in terms of optical depth of the excitation wavelength. Monte Carlo results for a homogeneous semi-infinite layer are compared to a simple, fast heuristic model. Conclusion Both Monte Carlo simulations and the heuristic model clearly detail the volume of tissue interrogated by fluorescence. Since ∼ 35–40% of the remitted fluorescence is due to photons originally directed away from the surface, distal layers affect the remitted fluorescence. Fluorescence spectra from small biopsy samples may not produce the correct line shape owing to wavelength dependent losses. Lasers Surg. Med. 21:166–178, 1997. © 1997 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Scheduling United States Coast Guard helicopter deployment and maintenance at Clearwater Air Station, Florida

To mitigate the effects of a corrosive operating environment, the Coast Guard has planned an extensive preventative maintenance program for its Sikorsky HH60J helicopters based on helicopter flight time. We construct a mixed integer linear program that schedules the weeks during which each helicopter undergoes maintenance, as well as the weeks during which a helicopter conducts operations either at Clearwater Air Station, Florida or at one of two deployment sites. The schedules must consider different maintenance types, maintenance capacity and various operational requirements, e.g., the number of helicopters simultaneously patrolling a deployment site. Using data from the operations at Clearwater, we generate optimal schedules on a Unix workstation with modest computing power in less than 3min. Planners have been using our mixed integer linear program since January, 2005 for scheduling guidance.
To Seek Refuge: The Plight of the Child

The predicament faced by refugees is ancient. To be hunted, homeless, and unwelcome is an experience that has been shared by groups of persecuted people across the ages. This article describes issues pertinent to children who are refugees, with recommendations for addressing their special needs. Suggestions for assistance include helping refugee communities become active in identifying and solving their own problems; supporting comprehensive programs rather than focusing on resolving individual symptoms; and providing services oriented toward strengthening, rather than replacing the family as a primary support system for children.
125I Monotherapy Using D90 Implant Doses of 180 Gy or Greater

Purpose The purpose of this study was to characterize the oncologic results and toxicity profile of patients treated with 125 I implants using the dose delivered to 90% of the gland from the dose–volume histogram (D90) of greater than 144 Gy. Methods and Materials From June 1995 to Feb 2005, a total of 643 patients were treated with 125 I monotherapy for T1–T2 prostate cancer with a D90 of 180 Gy or greater (median, 197 Gy; range, 180–267 Gy). Implantations were performed using a real-time ultrasound-guided seed-placement method and intraoperative dosimetry to optimize target coverage and homogeneity by using modified peripheral loading. We analyzed biochemical disease-free survival (bDFS) of 435 patients who had a minimum 2-year prostate-specific antigen follow-up (median follow-up, 6.7 years; range, 2.0–11.1 years). Results Five-year bDFS rates for the entire cohort using the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology and Phoenix definitions were 96.9% and 96.5%, respectively. Using the Phoenix definition, 5-year bDFS rates were 97.3% for low-risk patients and 92.8% for intermediate/high-risk patients. The positive biopsy rate was 4.1%. The freedom rate from Grade 2 or higher rectal bleeding at 5 years was 88.5%. Acute urinary retention occurred in 10.7%, more commonly in patients with high pretreatment International Prostate Symptom Scores ( p Conclusions Patients with a minimum D90 of 180 Gy had outstanding local control based on prostate-specific antigen control and biopsy data. Toxicity profiles, particularly for long-term urinary and sexual function, were excellent and showed that D90 doses of 180 Gy or greater performed using the technique described were feasible and tolerable.
Noncardiac Comorbidities and Acute Heart Failure Patients

The acute heart failure (AHF) population is a heterogeneous group with multiple interrelated noncardiovascular comorbidities. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, renal disease, diabetes, sleep apnea, and anemia affect the clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients with AHF and complicate inpatient management. This article summarizes the impact of these noncardiovascular comorbidities in patients with AHF. In some circumstances, careful attention to the diagnosis and management of these conditions in patients with AHF may help to improve patient outcomes.
Diffusion dynamics of open source software: An agent-based computational economics (ACE) approach

The rising popularity of open source software (OSS) calls for a better understanding of the drivers of its adoption and diffusion. In this research, we propose an integrated framework that simultaneously investigates a broad range of social and economic factors on the diffusion dynamics of OSS using an Agent Based Computational Economics (ACE) approach. We find that interoperability costs, variability of OSS support costs, and duration of PS upgrade cycle are major determinants of OSS diffusion. Furthermore, there are interaction effects between network topology, network density and interoperability costs, which strongly influence the diffusion dynamics of OSS. The proposed model can be used as a building block to further investigate complex competitive dynamics in software markets.
Agent based emergency response workflow management

Emergency management is a process by which all individuals, groups, and communities manage hazards in an effort to avoid or ameliorate the impact of disasters resulting from the hazards. Emergency response workflow is dynamic because there are lots of uncertainties with the course of hazard development and rescue effort. Existing dynamic workflow modeling technologies are not sufficient to describe the complex emergency response processes which are context aware and data-driven. In this paper, we propose an intelligent agent based approach to supporting the emergency response process management. The approach integrates BDI agents with WIFA workflow model, which was developed in our previous work, to a powerful tool for truly dynamic workflow modeling and execution.
Context-based endmember detection for hyperspectral imagery

An endmember detection algorithm that simultaneously partitions an input data set into distinct contexts, estimates endmembers, number of endmembers, and abundances for each partition is presented. In contrast to previous endmember detection algorithms based on the Convex Geometry Model, this method is capable of describing non-convex sets of hyperspectral pixels. Endmembers are found for non-convex regions by partitioning the set of pixels into convex regions using the Dirichlet Process and determining unique endmembers for each region. This novel endmember detection method naturally produces a classifier with a reject class. The algorithm can effectively identify to which context a test data point belongs and identify test pixels for which the associated context is unknown. Results are shown on AVIRIS Indian Pines Hyperspectral data. The results show the classification capability of this context-based endmember algorithm.
Targeted Gene Disruption Demonstrates That P-Selectin Glycoprotein Ligand 1 (Psgl-1) Is Required for P-Selectin–Mediated but Not E-Selectin–Mediated Neutrophil Rolling and Migration

P-selectin glycoprotein ligand 1 (PSGL-1) is a mucin-like selectin counterreceptor that binds to P-selectin, E-selectin, and L-selectin. To determine its physiological role in cell adhesion as a mediator of leukocyte rolling and migration during inflammation, we prepared mice genetically deficient in PSGL-1 by targeted disruption of the PSGL-1 gene. The homozygous PSGL-1–deficient mouse was viable and fertile. The blood neutrophil count was modestly elevated. There was no evidence of spontaneous development of skin ulcerations or infections. Leukocyte infiltration in the chemical peritonitis model was significantly delayed. Leukocyte rolling in vivo, studied by intravital microscopy in postcapillary venules of the cremaster muscle, was markedly decreased 30 min after trauma in the PSGL-1–deficient mouse. In contrast, leukocyte rolling 2 h after tumor necrosis factor α stimulation was only modestly reduced, but blocking antibodies to E-selectin infused into the PSGL-1–deficient mouse almost completely eliminated leukocyte rolling. These results indicate that PSGL-1 is required for the early inflammatory responses but not for E-selectin–mediated responses. These kinetics are consistent with a model in which PSGL-1 is the predominant neutrophil P-selectin ligand but is not a required counterreceptor for E-selectin under in vivo physiological conditions.
The mechanics and mathematics of the effect of pressure on the shear modulus of elastomers

In this paper, we discuss the need for models that express the stretch (or strain) as a function of stress, or implicit constitutive models that relate the stretch (or strain) and stress, for describing the elastic response of some elastomers. We would like to provide an explanation for some experimental data for elastomeric materials that imply that the material moduli depend on pressure. Included in the class of models that are proposed are those which can explain limiting chain extensibility that is exhibited by some rubber-like solids. The models that are proposed stem from a completely different starting point from that for classical elastic bodies, so that these models cannot be obtained within the context of classical theory.
Should we Translate the Documents or the Queries in Cross-language Information Retrieval?

Previous comparisons of document and query translation suffered difficulty due to differing quality of machine translation in these two opposite directions. We avoid this difficulty by training identical statistical translation models for both translation directions using the same training data. We investigate information retrieval between English and French, incorporating both translations directions into both document translation and query translation-based information retrieval, as well as into hybrid systems. We find that hybrids of document and query translation-based systems out-perform query translation systems, even human-quality query translation systems.
LightWAVE: Waveform and annotation viewing and editing in aWeb browser

This paper describes LightWAVE, recently-developed open-source software for viewing ECGs and other physiologic waveforms and associated annotations (event markers). It supports efficient interactive creation and modification of annotations, capabilities that are essential for building new collections of physiologic signals and time series for research. LightWAVE is constructed of components that interact in simple ways, making it straightforward to enhance or replace any of them. The back end (server) is a common gateway interface (CGI) application written in C for speed and efficiency. It retrieves data from its data repository (PhysioNet's open-access PhysioBank archives by default, or any set of files or web pages structured as in PhysioBank) and delivers them in response to requests generated by the front end. The front end (client) is a web application written in JavaScript. It runs within any modern web browser and does not require installation on the user's computer, tablet, or phone. Finally, LightWAVE's scribe is a tiny CGI application written in Perl, which records the user's edits in annotation files. LightWAVE's data repository, back end, and front end can be located on the same computer or on separate computers. The data repository may be split across multiple computers. For compatibility with the standard browser security model, the front end and the scribe must be loaded from the same domain.
Effects of resiniferatoxin on the neurogenic component of feline interstitial cystitis.

Many of the symptoms and signs of interstitial cystitits (IC) may be due to sensitization of normal afferent pathways that signal bladder distention and pain. We examined the degree of afferent sensitization in a feline model of IC to determine if pain transmission and vesicosympathetic reflexes are upregulated in this disease. We also assessed the relative reduction in afferent transmission and efferent responses after intravesical infusion of resiniferatoxin (RTX) in both normal cats and cats with IC. Two normal cats and 2 cats with IC were placed under various levels of isoflurane anesthesia, and the EEG bispectral index (BIS), respiratory and heart rate, blood pressure, and bladder pressure and volume were monitored during bladder infusion with warmed saline. Similar parameters were monitored after electrical stimulation of the tail base. Response thresholds (MACcortical and MACsubcortical) for cerebrocortical arousal (BIS number .60) and subcortical activation (respiratory and cardiovascular parameter increases), respectively, were recorded. All normal cats and cats with IC then received an intravesical infusion of RTX (0.1 mmol/L solution for 30 minutes). After 30 days, response threshold determinations were repeated as described. At baseline, MACsubcortical was greater in cats with IC than in normal cats, and the MACsubcortical was always greater than the MACcorticalin cats with IC. Furthermore, both heart rate and respiratory rate increased in cats with IC just before elevation of the BIS. This was not observed in normal cats. Tail stimulation caused respiratory rate and BIS elevations at comparable levels of anesthesia in both the affected and control groups. Following RTX desensitization, the decrease in MACcortical was slightly greater in the IC cat group than in normal cats. The decrease in MACsubcortical after RTX treatment was of a greater magnitude in cats with IC than in normal cats. Bladder capacity and compliance were reduced post-RTX in cats with IC, but not in normal cats. These results suggest a lower threshold of central nervous system cerebrocortical and autonomic activation in cats with IC. Furthermore, subcortical reflexes may occur before and independently of conscious perception of a painful stimulus in IC. Bladder inflation failed to cause the same degree of sympathetically mediated increases in heart and respiratory rate post-RTX, suggesting that upregulated vesicosympathetic cardiovascular and respiratory reflexes were “normalized” post-RTX. Additional studies are needed to confirm these findings in a larger number of cats and to identify the afferent pathways (pelvic versus hypogastric) that are upregulated in IC.
Macro-Cell Placement

Macro-cells in the integrated circuits (IC) design are large blocks which can be viewed as black-boxes. The logic and electronic behavior of these macro-cells are given but the inside structural description may or may not be known. As a consequence, macro-cells may have flexible geometries and pins of macro-cells can be located inside the block. The sizes of macro-cells are much larger than the sizes of standard-cells. A typical macro-cell could have a size being several percent of the whole placement area. Macro-cells are usually divided into two categories: soft macro-cells and hard macro-cells. Soft macros can have several possible specified shapes while hard macros have only one fixed geometry.
Chemical Reactions of Rubber

Abstract Most of the literature descriptive of the various known derivatives of rubber is found published as patents rather than as technical papers, thus indicating the commercial possibilities that may be expected from these developments. Fisher, Schidrowitz and, more recently, Jones have summarized and discussed the chemistry of rubber and its commercial derivatives. The decomposition of rubber by heat has been studied by several investigators. Williams showed that isoprene is one of the main products formed by the destructive distillation of either caoutchouc or gutta percha. Later investigators have shown that slow heating in vacuo at 300° C converts somewhat more than one-half of rubber hydrocarbon into a solid, thermoplastic, isomeric product, which has a high molecular weight and less unsaturation than that of the original hydrocarbon. Rapid heating, especially in vacuo, converts almost all the rubber into volatile products. The most complete investigation of the products obtained by the heat deco...
MOISTURE-TEMPERATURE EQUIVALENCE IN PHYSICAL AGING OF POLYMERIC COMPOSITES

The relation between the effects of moisture and temperature on physical aging of polymeric composite IM7/977-3 was studied by using momentary creep tests. Off-axis composite coupon specimens were used to obtain the compliances for different aging times with two test conditions: (1) dry specimens aged under several temperatures, and (2) wet specimens with different moisture contents at 23 °C. The effects of moisture and temperature on physical aging of elastic and creep compliances were investigated separately. Experimental data showed that both moisture and temperature could raise elastic compliance curves. It was found that the elastic compliance curve for a given moisture content could be shifted and collapsed to other curves for different moisture contents by using shift factors. Similar shifts could also be done with the elastic compliance curves for specimens aged under different temperatures.
Frequency of blood-feeding in relation to sugar availability in Aedes aegypti and Anopheles quadrimaculatus (Diptera: Culicidae)

In adult females of the mosquitoes Aedes aegypti (L.) and Anopheles quadrimaculatus Say, mean frequency of blood-feeding was measured under two ad lib. regimes: water only and 50% honey solution. After an initial sugar-feeding and mating period, a human hand was offered daily for 2—3 wk to groups of caged mosquitoes, and the number blood-feeding each day was recorded. Mean feeding frequency of A. aegypti with access to 50% honey (0.54 blood meals per female per day) was significantly lower than the frequency of those with only water (0.71 blood meals per female per day). At least in part, this was due to reduced supplementary blood-feeding in honey-fed females. Mean feeding frequency of A. quadrimaculatus with access to honey (0.28 blood meals per female per day) was not significantly lower than the frequency of those with only water (0.31 blood meals per female per day). This lack of difference reflected a balance, in honey-fed females, between a higher incidence of supplementary blood-feeding and a lower incidence of primary blood-feeding, apparently due to delayed oviposition.
Integrated Composite Stiffener Structure (ICoSS) Concept for Planetary Entry Vehicles

Results from the design, manufacturing, and testing of a lightweight Integrated Composite Stiffened Structure (ICoSS) concept, intended for multi-mission planetary entry vehicles are presented. Tests from both component and full-scale tests for a typical Earth Entry Vehicle forward shell manufactured using the ICoSS concept are presented and advantages of the concept for the particular application of passive Earth Entry Vehicles over other structural concepts are discussed.
Framing cooperation among regional economic powers: The South in global spheres of influence

This study examined the coverage of the trilateral commission of India, Brazil, and South Africa (IBSA) in the national press of these three countries over a 6-year period. Even though this group h...
The Edgeworth Barter Process

Non-tatonnement models are constructed in order to take advantage of an obvious Liapunov function — the sum of the utilities of the bartering agents. The presence of this function allows a theory to be developed in which barterers actually trade, thereby changing their endowment of commodities over time. Under additional restrictions, the set of Pareto optima is shown to exhibit certain stability properties.
Comparative risk assessment for new cow-level Mycobacterium avium ssp. paratuberculosis infections between 3 dairy production types: Organic, conventional, and conventional-grazing systems

Abstract Johne's disease, a granulomatous enteritis of ruminant animals, is a hidden threat on dairy farms, adversely affecting animal welfare as well as herd productivity. Control programs in the United States advocate for specific management practices to temper the spread of the causal organism ( Mycobacterium avium ssp. paratuberculosis , MAP), such as improving calving area hygiene and limiting introduction of replacement stock with unknown infection status. A need remains for direct exploration of Johne's disease prevention strategies in the United States with respect to production type. Alongside the growing demand for organic products, the safety of organic dairy practices with respect to MAP control is warranted. Further, conventional herds for which organic practices such as pasture grazing are used should be situated within the risk spectrum. We developed a risk assessment model using the US Voluntary Bovine Johne's Disease Control Program as a framework, with the goal of evaluating the risk of new cow-level MAP infections. A total of 292 organic and conventional farms in 3 states were surveyed on management practices, and an overall analysis was conducted in which each farm was first scored on individual practices using a range of "no risk" to "high risk," according to the literature. The sum of all risk factors was then analyzed to quantify and compare the risk burden for each production type. Organic herds received higher overall risk scores compared with both conventional grazing and nongrazing subtypes. To identify which factors contributed to the overall increased risk for organic herds, the management practices were categorized and evaluated by logistic regression. We determined that the increased risk incurred by organic herds was predominantly due to decisions made in the calving area and preweaned calf group. However, although certain individual risk factors related to calf management are commonly involved in prevention strategies (e.g., cow/calf separation) and were thus included in the overall risk assessment, empirical evidence linking them to the spread of MAP is lacking. Instead, these factors are problematic when executed with other management decisions, leading to a hypothesized synergism of transmission risk. To this end, we developed a set of compound risk factors, which were also evaluated as outcomes in logistic regression models, with production type serving as the predictor of interest. Organic farms in our study were more susceptible to risks associated with the synergism of study variables. Notably, organic producers were most likely to allow calves to spend extended time with the dam, while also lacking a dedicated calving area. Additionally, calves in organic herds were more often permitted to nurse even with poor udder hygiene on farm. A heightened vigilance toward calving area hygiene is therefore indicated for these herds.
How Is Linking (and Thus Learning) Like Unlimited Semiosis

In this final chapter the linking process of two students’ writings are dissected to indicate how the meaning they shared illustrates a process of unlimited semiosis, grounded in the notion of a semiotics sign system. The trajectory dimension of emotion/affect is used as an illustration of how an element of one’s trajectory may become the next cue, and thus guide the trajectory as it continues. Further discussion of trajectories and how they progress is then supported with a brief discussion of dynamic systems. The chapter concludes with a return to the rhizome metaphor and a summary of the grounded theory .
A Multisite Randomized Block Experiment on the Seamless System of Care Model for Drug-Involved Probationers

This multisite randomized block experiment examines the efficacy of the seamless system of care for probationers (an integrated probation model combined with substance abuse treatment intervention ...
The Immunosuppressed Patient

Surgical decision making for urgent and emergency problems can be complex, and this is amplified in the immunosuppressed patient. Diagnoses and management, both operative and non-operative, require an understanding of the individual challenges and risks coupled with different types of immunosuppression, as well as broad knowledge base of the infectious and non-infectious conditions that can result in surgical disease. This chapter reviews some common acquired or induced immunocompromised conditions, the common pathogens and pathophysiology that manifests in immunocompromised patients, and treatment and prevention strategies for these acute care surgical problems in the context of the immunosuppressed individual.
Review: 10 days of amoxicillin is effective for acute sinusitis

Source Citation Low DE, Desrosiers M, McSherry J, et al. A practical guide for the diagnosis and treatment of acute sinusitis. Can Med Assoc J. 1997 Mar 15;156(6 Suppl):1S-14S.
12 – In Defense of the Halstead–Reitan Battery: A Critique of Lezak’s Review

Publisher Summary This chapter is a republication of the first paper defending the HRB against criticism by Lezak. This critique demonstrated that Lezak confused clinical judgment used with a fixed battery, the HRB, with clinical judgment utilized in her method. Lezak's book is excellent in discussing the hypothesis-testing method and reviewing the research on single tests from that perspective. However, Reitan's method is basically not a hypothesis-testing method but a pattern-analysis method. This pattern-analysis method is generally misunderstood by Lezak and many other neuropsychologists. Because many of Lezak's criticisms are derived from this misunderstanding, a discussion of her review must involve an explanation of the method used by Reitan. The chapter discusses issues that include types of batteries, legitimate review methods, and Reitan's method. It demonstrates that almost all of Lezak's criticisms of the HRB and the HRNES are incomplete, misleading, or erroneous. Her critique of the Reitan method involved a confusion of terms. In spite of attempts to discredit the HRB, not a single sound study questioning the validity of the HRB was presented, whereas many studies have demonstrated its validity. The fallacy of nonrefutation asserts that it is a fallacy to condemn methods that have been validated while recommending procedures that have not been validated. Lezak questions Reitan's method, the HRB, and the HRNES, which have been thoroughly validated, while presenting no validating studies of her own recommended methods.
Zionism, History of

The Zionist movement before the rise of the State of Israel proclaimed, in addition to the goal of political sovereignty, the following national objectives: to develop Hebrew as a spoken language and as the foundation of a Jewish national consensus; to transfer to Palestine all Jews who could not or did not wish to live in diaspora countries; to establish a Jewish community in Palestine free from the peculiar social, economic, and cultural problems that beset the Jewish status as a minority people scattered throughout the world; and to carry out the transformations in the Jewish social and economic distribution, to create the appropriate social institutions, and to foster the cultural changes that were the necessary means for attaining the above ends. Upon the creation of the Jewish state in 1948, the ideal of national independence was institutionalized in the ultimate form, that of political sovereignty. By that date, too, the Jewish community in Palestine had already developed institutions realizing the related national aims. Hebrew was a spoken language, widely enough disseminated to become the national tongue of the new state, and social and economic institutions had been developed, an occupational distribution achieved, and cultural values established in conformity with the ideal of a self-sustaining, balanced community capable of controlling its own destiny in the same way as other free peoples do.