cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Enhancing African American Participation in Biospecimens: A Case in Point for Pancreatic Cancer

Diseases of the pancreas (i.e. chronic pancreatitis, diabetes, and pancreatic cancer) disproportionally affect the African American community. Challenges associated with engaging the African American community in biospecimen research are longstanding. We surveyed a number of pancreas-related biobanks, and data repositories for African American representation. While some of the biobanks and databases surveyed contain biospecimens and data from African American donors at levels that reflect minority representation among the general population, others do not. A number of factors have historically contributed to reduced participation of the African Americans community in biospecimen donation including medical mistrust, lack of transparency, fear, and a poor knowledge and understanding about the use of biospecimens for research. Suggestions for increasing African American participation in organ and biospecimen donation include educational interventions, particularly in community groups, and providing printed and online recruitment materials to patients, patient advocates, and care partners. Increasing awareness of the many benefits of biospecimen donation among African Americans will positively affect health disparities research into pancreatic cancer and other diseases.
Dealer loyalty and brand loyalty: United or divided?

This study is an effort to shed light on the relationship between dealership loyalty and brand loyalty. The research questions posed in this study: What effect do dealership loyalty and brand loyal...
Carbon Nanotube Supported Amorphous MoS2 via Microwave Heating Synthesis for Enhanced Performance of Hydrogen Evolution Reaction

Amorphous molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) is a promising electrochemical catalyst for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) due to more active sites exposed on the surface compared to its crystalline counterpart. In this study, a novel fast three-minute one-pot method is proposed to prepare the single-wall carbon nanotube- (SWCNT-) supported amorphous MoS2 via a microwave heating process. Compared to traditional hydro- or solvent thermal methods to prepare MoS2 which usually consume more than 10 hours, it is more promising for fast production. An overpotential at 10 mA/cm2 of amorphous MoS2@SWCNT is 178 mV, which is 99 mV and 22 mV lower than crystalline MoS2@SWCNT and pure amorphous MoS2, respectively. After running 1000 cycles of polarization, ~2% increase in overpotential is observed, indicating its good stability. The enhanced performance results from the beneficial combination of the SWCNT substrate and the amorphous microstructures. The introduction of SWCNT increases catalyst conductivity and prevents MoS2 aggregation. The amorphous microstructures of MoS2 prepared by a microwave heating method lead to more Mo edges or active sites exposed.
Maintaining Consistency in the Law of the Large Circuit: The Origins and Operation of the Ninth Circuit's Limited En Banc Court

Once again, Congress is considering legislation to divide the largest of the federal judicial circuits, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. The Ninth Circuit extends over nine western states, including California, and it has 29 active judges, almost twice the number of the next-largest circuit. Much of the debate over proposals for restructuring focuses on a feature unique to the Ninth Circuit, the limited en banc court (LEBC). In all of the other circuits, when the court of appeals grants rehearing en banc, the case is heard by all active judges. In the Ninth Circuit, the en banc court is composed of 11 judges – the chief judge and 10 other judges selected at random for each case from among the active judges. Eleven judges constitute little more than one-third of the full court. Proponents of restructuring argue that the LEBC cannot satisfactorily perform the functions of en banc rehearing – in particular, maintaining consistency in the law of the circuit. This book chapter examines the origins and operation of the Ninth Circuit’s limited en banc court. It draws on internal court memoranda and interviews with the judges; it also includes an empirical study of en banc balloting during the first six years under the LEBC rule. The LEBC was authorized by legislation enacted by Congress in 1978. Even before the bill was passed, the Ninth Circuit’s judges began discussing how the en banc function might be performed by a body composed of fewer than all active judges. The discussions continued over a period of two years before the en banc rule – still in force today, with minor changes – was adopted. This book chapter traces in detail the evolution of the rule. It shows that the judges initially favored a nine-judge LEBC and a “permanent rotation” system, under which judges would serve for a designated period of time, with new judges rotating on at staggered intervals. Examining the process by which the judges shifted to the random selection approach provides a fascinating picture of judges working together to reshape an institution within the court. It also sheds light on the judges’ view of how an intermediate appellate court should function. The chapter also examines the Ninth Circuit’s efforts, during the first six years under the LEBC rule, to maintain consistency and coherence in the law of the circuit. The research shows that the formal en banc process is only one way in which the judges take steps to avoid conflicts between panel decisions. At the same time, en banc rehearing has not been not treated primarily as a device for maintaining consistency within the circuit. For example, review of the memoranda exchanged by the judges reveals that assertions of intracircuit conflict were made in fewer than half of the cases in which a judge called for a vote on rehearing a case en banc.
Convolved energy variational principle in heat diffusion

Abstract One of the major, long-standing challenges in analytical mechanics involves the inability to address systems with dissipation in a rigorous manner. In this paper, we overcome that difficulty by formulating a novel temperature-based stationary variational principle for transient heat diffusion based upon a temporal convolution operator and fractional derivatives. The associated Euler-Lagrange equations provide the governing heat equation, along with the initial conditions on temperature and specified heat flux boundary conditions. A further integration-by-parts then leads to a formulation that is somewhat less symmetric but can be written without introducing fractional calculus. Finally, the resulting principle is used to solve two basic one-dimensional problems, as an illustration of a Ritz-type approach.
Late-occurring venous thromboembolism in allogeneic blood or marrow transplant survivors: a BMTSS-HiGHS2 risk model

Abstract Background Allogeneic blood or marrow transplant (BMT) recipients are at risk for venous-thromboembolism (VTE) because of high-intensity therapeutic exposures, comorbidities and a pro-inflammatory state due to chronic graft vs. host disease (GvHD). The long-term risk of VTE in allogeneic BMT survivors remains unstudied. Methods Participants were drawn from the BMT Survivor Study (BMTSS), a retrospective cohort study that included patients who underwent transplantation between 1974 and 2014 and survived ≥2y after BMT. The BMTSS survey collected information on sociodemographics, health behaviors and chronic health conditions along with age at diagnosis. Details regarding primary cancer diagnosis, transplant preparative regimens, type of transplant and stem cell source were obtained from institutional databases and medical records. We analyzed the risk of VTE in 1,554 2y survivors of allogeneic BMT compared to 907 siblings. Using backward variable selection guided by minimizing Akaike's information criterion, we created a prediction model for risk of late-occurring VTE. Results Allogeneic BMT survivors had a 7.3-fold higher risk of VTE compared to siblings (95%CI: 4.69-11.46, p Hi story of stroke, chronic G vHD, H ypertension, S ex (male vs. female) and S tem cell source (PBSCs vs. other) (corrected C-statistics: 0.73; 95%CI=0.67-0.79), and was able to classify patients at high and low VTE risk (10y cumulative incidence 9.3% vs. 2.4%, p Conclusions The BMTSS HiGHS2 risk model when applied at 2y post-BMT can be used to inform targeted prevention strategies for patients at high risk for late-occurring VTE.
Characteristics of early pleural effusions after orthotopic heart transplantation: comparison with coronary artery bypass graft surgery

Pleural effusions appearing within the first 30 postoperative days following coronary artery bypass grafting are classified as early and believed to be directly related to cardiac surgery. The characteristics of such effusions are well-described. Orthotopic heart transplantation is also known to be complicated by pleural effusions, but their characteristics have not been systematically reported. We assessed the features of early postoperative pleural effusions after heart transplantation and compared them to those of early effusions following coronary artery bypass grafting. We retrospectively collected demographic, clinical, and laboratory data for patients who underwent either orthotopic heart transplantation (study group) or coronary artery bypass grafting (comparison group) at our institution and whose postoperative course within 30 days was complicated by new or worsening pleural effusion. Patients subjected to analysis consisted only of those with sufficiently complete laboratory profiles to permit adequate characterization of the nature of their pleural fluid. Out of 251 orthotopic heart transplant recipients, 7 (2.8%) were found to have sufficiently complete pleural fluid results to be included. Out of 1506 patients who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting, 32 (2.1%) had sufficiently complete pleural fluid results. The radiological appearance of pleural effusions in both groups was similar: bilateral in at least half and exclusively moderate to large. Effusions complicating both surgeries were exudative in close to 90% of cases. For those with available leukocyte differential counts, the pleural fluid of the post-orthotopic heart transplantation group was more often neutrophilic (3/5, 60%), whereas the fluid of the post-coronary artery bypass grafting group was more often lymphocytic (22/32, 69%) and tended to be hemorrhagic (median red blood cell count 33,000 cells/µl vs 10,000 cells/µl). None of the comparisons of pleural fluid characteristics between the two groups reached statistical significance. This small, descriptive study is the first to systematically report the fluid characteristics of pleural effusions complicating orthotopic heart transplantation within the first 30 postoperative days and to compare this group to those who developed effusions after coronary artery bypass grafting. Our findings revealed both similarities and differences in the pleural fluid characteristics between these two types of patients.
Endliche Plastische Formänderungen

In den bisher betrachteten Anwendungen der Plastizitatstheorie waren die plastischen Formanderungen als klein vorausgesetzt, so dass zum Beispiel die Gleichgewichtsbedingungen am unverformten System aufgestellt werden konnten. Diese Voraussetzung ist offensichtlich nicht haltbar, wenn man technische Formungsprozesse, wie zum Beispiel Strangpressen oder Walzen, untersuchen will. In diesem Kapitel werden wir uns daher mit endlichen plastischen Formanderungen befassen.
Characterization of estrogen receptor-negative/progesterone receptor-positive breast cancer.

Summary Despite the controversies, estrogen receptor–negative/progesterone receptor–positive (ER−/PR+) breast cancers have a reported incidence of 1% to 4%. These tumors are less well defined, and it is unclear whether ER−/PR+ represents a distinct subtype. Thus, we analyzed 5374 consecutive breast cancers to characterize the clinicopathological features of this underrecognized subset of tumors. The ER−/PR+ tumors, constituting 2.3% of the total, were mostly high grade and significantly seen in younger patients and African American women when compared with the ER+/PR+ and ER+/PR− groups, but similar to that of ER−/PR− phenotype ( P P = .0002) or ER−/PR+ ( P = .0004) tumors, whereas all 3 groups showed a superior outcome to that of the ER−/PR− phenotype. In the subset of patients receiving endocrine therapy, those with ER+/PR+ tumors had a significantly prolonged RFS ( P = .001) and disease-specific survival ( P = .005) when compared with the group with an ER+/PR− phenotype, but did not significantly differ from those with ER−/PR+ tumors. No significant survival advantage was found between the ER+/PR− and ER−/PR+ tumors in any group of patients analyzed. Furthermore, a higher PR expression was associated with a favorable RFS and disease-specific survival in the patients with ER−/PR+ tumors. Therefore, the ER−/PR+ tumors demonstrate a similar, if not higher than, response rate to endocrine therapy when compared with the ER+/PR− tumors and thus are important to identify. Routine PR testing remains necessary in assisting clinical decision making in the pursuit of precision medicine.
Application of genetic algorithms to the discovery of complex models for simulation studies in human genetics

Simulation studies are useful in various disciplines for a number of reasons including the development and evaluation of new computational and statistical methods. This is particularly true in human genetics and genetic epidemiology where new analytical methods are needed for the detection and characterization of disease susceptibility genes whose effects are complex, nonlinear, and partially or solely dependent on the effects of other genes. Despite this need, the development of complex genetic models that can be used to simulate data is not always intuitive. In fact, only a few such models have been published. In this paper, we present a strategy for identifying complex genetic models for simulation studies that utilizes genetic algorithms. The genetic models used in this study are penetrance functions that define the probability of disease given a specific DNA sequence variation has been inherited. We demonstrate that the genetic algorithm approach routinely identifies interesting and useful penetrance functions in a human-competitve manner.
Multiple Limbic Regions Mediate the Disruption of Prepulse Inhibition Produced in Rats by the Noncompetitive NMDA Antagonist Dizocilpine

Prepulse inhibition (PPI), a phenomenon in which a weak prestimulus decreases the startle response to an intense stimulus, provides an operational measure of sensorimotor gating (a process by which an organism filters sensory information) and is diminished in schizophrenia and schizotypal patients. The psychotomimetic phencyclidine and its potent congener dizocilpine are noncompetitive antagonists of the NMDA receptor complex, and they disrupt PPI in rodents, mimicking the clinically observed PPI deficit. The neuroanatomical substrates mediating the PPI-disruptive effects of noncompetitive NMDA antagonists are unknown. The present study sought to identify brain regions subserving the disruption of PPI produced by noncompetitive NMDA antagonists in rats. PPI was measured in startle chambers immediately after bilateral infusion of dizocilpine (0, 0.25, 1.25, and 6.25 microgram/0.5 microliter/side) into one of six brain regions: amygdala, dorsal hippocampus, medial prefrontal cortex, nucleus accumbens, ventral hippocampus, and dorsomedial thalamus. Dizocilpine significantly decreased PPI after infusion into the amygdala or dorsal hippocampus. A trend toward PPI disruption was observed with administration into medial prefrontal cortex. In contrast, no change in PPI was produced by dizocilpine infusion into nucleus accumbens, ventral hippocampus, or dorsomedial thalamus. Startle reactivity was increased by dizocilpine infusion into amygdala, dorsal hippocampus, nucleus accumbens, and dorsomedial thalamus, but not medial prefrontal cortex. These findings indicate that multiple limbic forebrain regions mediate the ability of noncompetitive NMDA antagonists to disrupt PPI and that the PPI-disruptive and the startle-increasing effects of dizocilpine are mediated by different central sites.
Strengthening ASIS&T's chapters by enhancing communication between chapters and with SIGs

EDITOR'S SUMMARY While the ASIS&T Annual Meeting is as excellent opportunity for information professionals to gather, the special interest groups (SIGs) and chapters support interaction year-round. SIGs bring together members focusing on 21 areas of interest, while 20 chapters are organized by region, with 43 university-based student chapters. Each group operates under a governance committee or assembly, works through the year to deliver stimulating educational programs, projects and services and to recruit and retain members, and submits annual reports on their efforts. A shared challenge rises from a tendency toward one-way communication to members from the Association, chapters or SIGs, an obstacle that can be overcome through deeper use of the ASIS&T's rich web content for members and involvement in chapter and SIG leadership. A number of resources are available to group officers to support SIG and chapter initiatives and administration. Sharing best practices though reports, awards and virtual meetings strengthens all groups and the Association as a whole.
Sesquiterpene lactones of artemisia species. New lactones from A. arbuscula ssp. arbuscula and A. tripartita ssp. rupicola

Abstract The new santanolides, arbusculin-A, -B and -E, have been isolated from Artemisia arbuscula Nutt. ssp. arbuscula : and the closely related colartin (11,13-dihydroarbusculin-A) has been found in A. tripartita Gray ssp. rupicola Beetle. These four lactones appear to represent early stages near the origin of the biosynthetic pathway of formation of compounds of this class.
The Use of Gene Therapy in Cancer Research and Treatment

Gene therapy involves identifying a gene of interest and then manipulating the expression of this gene through a variety of techniques. Here we specifically address gene therapy's role in cancer research. This paper will encompass thoroughly investigated techniques such as cancer vaccines and suicide gene therapy and the latest advancements in and applications of these techniques. It will also cover newer techniques such as Antisense Oligonucleotides and small interfering RNAs and how these technologies are being developed and used. The use of gene therapy continues to expand in cancer research and has an integral role in the advancement of cancer treatment.
Gendered Living Arrangements Among Children With Disabilities

Using data on disabilities from the 2000 Census, we found a consistent pattern of living arrangements that leaves children (aged 5 – 15 years) with disabilities living disproportionately with women. Children with disabilities are more likely to live with single parents, and especially their mothers, than are other children. Further, those who do not live with either biological parent are more likely to live in households headed by women than are other children. The results suggest that gendered living arrangements among children with disabilities are a neglected aspect of inequality in caring labor, which is an underpinning of gender inequality in general.
A Newton–Cotes method for quantum stochastic differential equations

Abstract We present an implicit Simpson’s rule for the numerical computation of quantum stochastic differential equations. We derive the method, present convergence results and a numerical example. Our method avoid the high cost of high-order methods as well the cost of obtaining starting values for multi-step methods.
Code-switching and language change in Tunisia

This article quantitatively studies the patterns of Tunisian Arabic/French code-switching and the possible implications for contact-induced change in the Tunisian dialect. The purpose is to account for the extent of the occurrence of code-switching across gender lines and levels of education and assess its role in the interference from French into Arabic, both at the lexical and structural levels. Recorded semi-directed sociolinguistic interviews with twelve speakers are examined for type and frequency of code-switching and use of French borrowings. Results show that education plays a role in distinguishing the group with a higher education from the group with only a high school education. The university-educated group shows a much higher frequency of code-switching that reflects a higher degree of competence in the French language. Gender, on the other hand, does not seem to be a factor in determining the frequency of code-switching. The article also shows that contact between the two languages has led to intensive lexical transfer from French into Tunisian Arabic and some instances of structural imposition that include phonological and morphosyntactic features.
Biosynthesis of inositol in rat testis homogenate

Abstract The observation of inositol formation in germ-free rats and mice ( Freinkel and Dawson, 1961 ) has established umequivocally the existence of a mammalian pathway for the biosynthesis of this cyclitol. Until now studies designed to elucidate this pathway have utilized the intact cell either in the whole animal ( Daughaday et al , 1955 ; Halliday and Anderson, 1955 ; Imai, 1963 ; Hauser and Finelli, 1963 ), tissue culture ( Eagle et al , 1960 ), or tissue slices ( Hauser and Finelli, 1963 ). Synthesis of inositol in intact non-mammalian cells has been observed in yeast ( Charalampous, 1957 ), chick embryo ( Daughaday et al , 1955 ), and plants ( Loewus and Kelly, 1962 ). The present communication describes experiments in which for the first time a homogenate, prepared from rat testis, has been found active in the synthesis of myo-inositol from glucose in yields about 10 times greater than in mammalian cellular systems. Under the same experimental conditions homogenates of rat liver, kidney, brain, spleen, lung, and lactating mammary gland failed to incorporate glucose carbon into inositol.
Improved sliding electrical brush performance through the use of water lubrication

Electrical and wear performances of sliding electrical currents are critically dependent on the local contact spot temperature resulting from Joule and frictional heating. A method of water application for both lubricating and cooling significantly decreases wear rates. Increases in the useable current densities in continuous operation are achieved with metal fiber brushes. Brush polarity has a distinct effect on the brush characteristics, with the negative brush-positive rotor couple displaying much lower wear rates (by a factor of about 7) and slightly higher average voltage drops. When adequate moisture is provided, metal fiber brushes perform well consistently. Inadequate moisture results in periods of apparently excellent brush performance followed by high wear rates and often by destruction of the brushes. >
The Effects of Gamma Irradiation On the Motility, Infectivity, Reproduction and Morphology of Ditylenchus Dipsaci 1)

The development of fourth-stage larvae of Ditylenchus dipsaci after exposure to gamma irradiation at dosages from 16 to 400 kilorads was studied monoxenically. Nematode motility 6 hours after irradiation was significantly higher in controls than in treatments receiving doses of 48, 96 and 192 kilorads; by the fourth day this difference in motility disappeared. Severity of shoot crown swelling in alfalfa seedlings decreased with an increase in irradiation dose to the inoculum. Population increase ceased in cultures inoculated with nematodes irradiated with doses of 48 kilorads and greater. Nematode population increases were greater when the inoculum was irradiated in a nitrogen rather than in an oxygen atmosphere. Several morphological abnormalities were present only in the progenies of nematodes irradiated at dosages of 32, 48, 64, 80 and 96 kilorads.
A Legal Right to Physician-Assisted Suicide Defended

Ought there to be a right to physician-assisted suicide under United States law? In this article I shall argue in the affirmative. I suggest that it should have the same basic structure as the various rights to physician assisted suicide, constitutional or statutory, that have been claimed in federal and state courts during the past few years. It should be a rights package, not a single complex right but a set of rights concerning distinct aspects of physician-assisted suicide. Specifically, it should consist of the bilateral liberty-rights to request or not request, to obtain or not obtain, and to use or not use assistance provided by one's physician to commit suicide.
Enhancement of prothrombin activation on platelets by endothelial cells and mechanism of activation of factor V.

Factor Xa-catalyzed prothrombin activation occurs on cellular surfaces, including those of vascular endothelial cells. In a reconstituted model, endothelial cells and platelets acted synergistically to maximally activate prothrombin in the presence of Factor Xa. Synergism was observed at platelet concentrations <1 × 108/ml. Thrombin formation was required for optimal prothrombin activation by endothelial cells and Factor Xa, with thrombin serving as an activator of Factor V. These data provide additional support for the hypothesis that vascular endothelium is a physiologic surface for hemostasis.
Magnetic resonance imaging signal hypointensity and iron content of putamen nuclei in elderly depressed patients

We previously introduced a semiquantitative scale for assessment of iron content of putamen nuclei as determined by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)--the Signal Hypointensity in the Putamen (SHIP) scale. Such hypointensity may be related to putamen nuclei iron content, although this suggestion remains controversial, especially in the elderly. In the present study, we apply the SHIP scale to a sample of 68 elderly depressed patients (diagnosed with DSM-IV major depression using the Diagnostic Interview Schedule and clinical interview) and a group of 28 age-matched non-depressed control subjects. MRI scans were conducted on a single 1.5-T General Electric Signa system with axial acquisitions obtained parallel to the canthomeatal line. Technical parameters were as follows: (1) repetition time (TR) = 500 ms and echo time (TE) = 15 ms for T1-weighted images; (2) TR = 2500 ms and TE = 30 ms for proton-density-weighted images; and (3) TR = 2500 ms and TE = 80 ms for T2-weighted images. Among depressed patients, older age of depression onset and greater severity of depression were associated with increased putamen nuclei iron deposition. When depressed patients were compared with control subjects, the patient group demonstrated greater putamen nuclei iron, but the finding was significant only for the left hemisphere. Our findings support previous neuroimaging studies linking both changes in the basal ganglia and greater left-sided brain pathology to late-life depression.
Investigation of the microstructure of coatings for high-power lasers by nonoptical techniques

The microstructure of optical coatings strongly influence their resistance to high fluence laser, scatter properties, as well as their mechanical and environmental stability. The relative merits of nonoptical techniques such as scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and focused ion beam are discussed as they apply to optical multilayer coatings. The combination of these techniques provides a unique method to analyze defects in coatings. the long-term objective of this work is to understand the initiation and growth mechanisms of defects in optical coatings, investigate failure mechanisms of laser coatings, and suggest methods for reducing the number of defects during the deposition process. \to date, our defect analysis using nonoptical techniques has focused on hafnia/silica multilayers for high-power lasers. In summary, the information we have compiled about the defect seeds indicates that (1) seed size has an influence upon the mechanical stability of the whole defect, (2) seed shape and chemical composition reveal potential seed sources in the coating systems, and (3) defects can be initiated either as a single event or continuously during the deposition process. Also, it is shown that different vendors have characteristic defects and seeds.
Development of a hydrothermal deposition process for applying zirconia coatings on BWR materials for IGSCC mitigation

Abstract An in situ hydrothermal deposition process is being developed to apply a film of zirconia (ZrO 2 ) onto interior surface of 304 stainless steel and Alloy 600 as a potential method for mitigating intergranular stress corrosion cracking (IGSCC) in boiling water reactors (BWRs). The coating process is discussed. The obtained zirconia coatings are adherent. Monoclinic ZrO 2 is the dominant phase when ZrO(ClO 4 ) 2 was the oxidant; tetragonal ZrO 2 became the dominant phase when ZrO(NO 3 ) 2 was the oxidant. A preliminary experiment did not measure significantly lower values of the electrochemical potential (ECP), relative to the uncoated specimen over a wide range of dissolved oxygen in 265 °C water.
Convergent and Discriminant Validity of the Iowa Social Competency Scale for Preschool Children

Convergent and discriminant validity of the Iowa Social Competency Scale-Preschool form (ISCS-P) was investigated by using the Campbell and Fiske validity model. The methods involved were observer, mother, father, and teacher ratings whereas the traits were the three factors of the ISCS-P (Social Activator, Reassurance, and Hypersensitivity). Subjects were 92 preschool-age children, their parents, and teachers. Data were subjected to pooled within teacher correlations and reported in the form of a multitrait-multimethod matrix. Results confirmed convergent and discriminant validity for the Social Activator factor. For the Reassurance factor, convergent and discriminant validity was demonstrated for mother, father, and teacher ratings but not for observer ratings. Neither convergent nor discriminant validity was demonstrated for the Hypersensitivity factor.
A fast image encryption scheme with a novel pixel swapping-based confusion approach

In traditional permutation-diffusion type image cipher, the confusion and diffusion are two independent procedures. In general, several overall rounds are required to achieve a satisfactory security level, which downgrades its advantage in online image protection. In this paper, a novel plain pixel-related swapping confusion approach that can contribute considerable diffusion effect in the permutation procedure is proposed. By employing the self-related non-linear pixel swapping confusion approach, a tiny difference between two plain images can bring about completely different confused images. Therefore, the spreading process of the cryptosystem is significantly accelerated, and the workload of the time-consuming diffusion part will be reduced. Moreover, an improved image encryption architecture is proposed in conjunction with the pixel swapping-based confusion approach. Compared with the typical permutation-diffusion structure, the new architecture well addresses the weakness of confusion key sensitivity in the first encryption round. Simulation results and numerical analyses justify the higher efficiency and sufficient strength of the proposed image encryption scheme.
The use of Rasch measurement to improve the Oswestry classification scheme

Abstract White LJ, Velozo CA. The use of Rasch measurement to improve the Oswestry classification scheme. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2002;83:822-31. Objectives: To use Rasch measurement to assess and modify the original classification categories of the Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire (Oswestry), to examine the hypothesis that the items from the Oswestry form a unidimensional construct and a hierarchical representation of low back pain (LBP) disability, and to compare ordinal Likert resultant scores to interval Rasch scaled scores with disability categories serving as a framework. Design: Rasch analysis model. Existing Oswestry admission data generated by FOTO were analyzed. Setting: Statistical analysis of sample database. Participants: A sample of 942 patients with LBP referred for physical therapy between 1993 and 1994. Interventions: Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures: Construct validity; disability categories (as assessed by Likert and Rasch models); and fit statistics (infit, outfit as mean squares). Results: All items from the Oswestry except the pain item fit the Rasch model. Construct validity of the scale using the Rasch model required the structure of the rating scale to be modified from 6 response levels to 4. A hierarchical representation of LBP disability was supported. A comparison of the disability categories based on Likert and Rasch scaling revealed them to be nonequivalent. The new scaling changed the disability categories for 44% of patients. Conclusion: Rasch analysis produced disability categories in the Oswestry that are linear and, therefore, useful for quantitatively assessing self-reported disability levels. © 2002 by the American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine and the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Deterioration of Fresh-Water Whitefish Muscle During Frozen Storage at −10°C

SUMMARY— Organoleptic and chemical deterioration of freshwater whitefish muscle frozen at −10°C for periods up to 16 weeks was assessed. As frozen storage of muscle progressed, the toughness and rancidity of baked muscle increased. The solubility of the myofibrillar protein fraction, “actomyosin,” dropped from about 72 to 22% over the 16 week storage period of whitefish muscle. No change in the solubility of sarcoplasmic protein in frozen stored muscle was observed. However, with polyacrylamide disc electrophoresis, two new sarcoplasmic protein bands were detected after 16 weeks of storage. With storage of frozen muscle, water-binding capacity diminished. Although the total lipid and cholesterol contents of muscle remained constant throughout frozen storage, the phospholipid content decreased as the free fatty acid content increased. Oxidative deterioration of lipid in frozen muscle was estimated.
Template-free synthesis of MFI-type zeolite membranes: Permeation characteristics and thermal stability improvement of membrane structure

Abstract MFI-type zeolite membranes have shown promise for molecular sieving applications that require high chemical and thermal stability. In this work, MFI-type zeolite membranes were prepared by template-free seeded growth method in order to minimize defects and/or intercrystalline gaps that form during the calcination step required for template removal. Membranes were synthesized on two types of supporting materials, alumina and zirconia coated alumina. Synthesized membranes were characterized by molecular probing techniques including pervaporation of xylene isomers and TIPB as well as permeation of He and SF6. It was found that in order to obtain a high quality MFI-type zeolite film, the initial seed layer is an important factor. The quality of silicalite seed layer could be controlled by dip coating times with silicalite suspension; it was found that ideal selectivity for p/o-xylene of up to 20 could be obtained. Results also indicated that a high quality MFI-type zeolite film could be formed on zirconia intermediate layer as well. MFI-type zeolite membranes with zirconia intermediate layer prepared by annealing method showed relatively large He permeance above 10−7 mol m−2 s−1 Pa−1 with selectivity of around 50 (He/SF6) at 25 °C. These membranes showed high thermal stability at 500 °C, however, the stability was largely affected by heating/cooling rate of membrane.
Steric effects on the carbonyl stretching frequencies of alkyl styryl ketones

Quantitative relationships between the carbonyl stretching frequency and the Taft σ* and Es parameters have been found for the s-cis- and s-trans-conformers of alkyl styryl ketones; estimates of the contribution by the steric parameter to these relationships have been made.
Jewish, Catholic, and Islamic Schooling in Canada

Guide to New ResourcesEditors: Ming Fang He, Jeff Sapp, Maria Jose Botelho, Isabel Nunez, Wynnetta Scott-Simmons, and Lincoln Johnson SectionG. P. McDonough, N.A. Memon, & A. I. Mintz (Eds.). (2013...
The effects of aging on cerebellar β-adrenergic receptor activation and motor learning in female F344 rats

Female Fischer 344 (F344) rats were tested for age-related differences in both cerebellar β-adrenergic receptor activation and motor learning. Three and 20 month old rats were tested on a motor learning paradigm that required the rats to adjust their gait to navigate a runway of unevenly spaced pegs. Rates of acquisition were compared between age groups. After behavioral testing, cerebellar β-adrenergic receptor function was assessed using extracellular recordings of Purkinje cells during iontophoresis of GABA and isoproterenol (ISO). Aged female rats showed deficits in motor learning and in β-adrenergic receptor activation. In young rats, ISO modulated GABAergic inhibition of Purkinje cell firing in more cells compared with aged rats. Thus, aging produces deficits in both motor learning and in β-adrenergic receptor activation in aged female F344 rats.
ON SCATTERING AT VERY HIGH ENERGIES

The asymptotic behavior of the scattering amplitude at very high energies is discussed on the basis of the general dispersion relations and the unitarity requirement. The assumption that the tangent approximation fulfills the dispersion relation leads to the prediction that the total cross-section can asymptotically not increase as strongly as proportional to the laboratory energy. The relevance of this result is discussed.
Effect of waiting time on credibility, attraction, homophily, and anxiety‐hostility

This study investigated the effects of waiting time on perception of the source (credibility, attraction, homophily), receiver anxiety (state anxiety), and receiver hostility. Analysis or variance was utilized to test for differences in source perception related to waiting times (0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45 minutes). Analysis of covariance, with PRCA and trait anxiety as covariates, was utilized to test for differences in anxiety and hostility resulting from waiting time inductions. Means plots indicated that Eta correlation would be the appropriate indicator of the magnitude of the relationships between waiting times and significant dependent variables. Perceived competence of the source was associated with waiting time. Apparently, the 45‐minute waiting time was the primary contributor to differences observed. The 45‐minute waiting time produced the most substantial reduction in competence. No significant effects were observed on other dimensions of source perception. Anxiety and hostility were...
On Green's functions for small disturbances of plane Couette flow

The linearized stability of plane Couette flow is investigated here, without using the Orr–Sommerfeld equation. Rather, an unusual symmetry of the problem is exploited to obtain a complete set of modes for perturbations of the unbounded (no walls) flow. An explicit Green's function is constructed from these modes. The unbounded flow is shown to be rigorously stable. The bounded case (with walls) is investigated by using a ‘method of images’ with the unbounded Green's function; the stability problem in this form reduces to an algebraic characteristic equation (not a differential-equation eigenvalue problem), involving transcendental functions defined by integral representations.
Hydrolysis of nicotinyl hydroxamate by a yeast nicotinamidase

Abstract Many hydroxamates, both aromatic and straight-chain fatty acid derivatives, were tested with acetone extracts of baker's yeast, and only nicotinyl hydroxamic acid was found to disappear. This process is complete, under the conditions described, within an hour, and nicotinic acid and hydroxylamine are formed. The properties of the enzyme suggest that it is the same as that which hydrolyzes nicotinamide (1). The Km of the hydroxamate system was found to be 3.0 × 10−5 m . The Q10 was 2.2, and the Ea was 15,000 cals/mole. The pH optimum was very broad, changes of pH from 6 to 9 having very little effect on the rate of hydrolysis. The enzyme is sensitive to sulfhydryl reagents, and a comparison was made of the protection afforded by the presence of the nicotinyl hydroxamate (NicHA) against the action of three SH inhibitors, HgCl2, PCMB and N-ethyl maleimide (NEM). Heating for 5 minutes at 60 ° destroys the enzyme, and this can be completely prevented by the presence during the heating of nicotinamide (NicAM) or of NicHA. Complete cross-protection occurred, so that either substrate could be hydrolyzed after heating the enzyme in the presence of the other. The addition of large amounts of end products does not affect either system. The hydrolysis of NicHA, however, is inhibited in the presence of NicAM, and also by increasing amounts of NicHA itself. Neither effect is seen with the NicAM as substrate. These facts indicate that, although Joshi and Handler (1) believed that yeast nicotinamidase acted on only one substrate, it also hydrolyzes NicHA. There is no evidence that NicHA takes any part in the metabolism of yeast, and it is thought that NicAM is the natural and preferential substrate for the enzyme. The figures for the Km and Ea are in line with this hypothesis.
Etiology and outcome of diarrhea after marrow transplantation: a prospective study.

Abstract Background/Aims: Acute diarrhea after marrow transplant is usually ascribed to acute graft-vs.-host disease (GVHD) or infection, with a reported 40%–50% incidence of infection. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of acute diarrhea after transplantation, its causes, and its outcome. Methods: Two hundred ninety-six patients were followed up; patients with diarrhea were studied using standard evaluation of stool plus immunoelectron microscopy; assays for astrovirus, picobirnavirus, and Norwalk virus; and geneprobe methods for toxin-producing Escherichia coli . In 38 patients with diarrhea, intestinal biopsy specimens and duodenal fluid were also analyzed. Results: One hundred fifty acute diarrheal episodes developed in 126 patients (an incidence of 43%). Intestinal infection was found in 20 of 150 episodes: viruses (astrovirus, adenovirus, cytomegalovirus, and rotavirus) in 12 patients, nosocomially acquired bacteria ( Clostridium difficile and Aeromonas ) in 7 patients, and mixed infection in 1 patient. Acute GVHD was responsible for 72 of 150 episodes (48%). Clinical signs and symptoms of infection and GVHD were similar. In 58 of 150 episodes (39%), no clear etiology could be found for self-limited diarrhea. Conclusions: Intestinal infection accounted for 13% and acute GVHD for 48% of diarrheal episodes. The most common infecting organisms were astrovirus, C. difficile , and adenovirus. Most cases of diarrhea after marrow transplant are not caused by infection.
Potential of Ultra-High Resolution and Low Voltage Sem for Dynamic Experiments

A new generation of ultrahigh resolution scanning electron microscope (UHRSEM) is designed to explore the potential for higher resolution imaging and chemical microanalysis from more representative bulk samples. A ≤0.5nm probe at 30kV and ≤2.5nm at 1kV have been integrated with high sensitivity energy dispersive x-ray spectrometry (EDX) [1] and a high vacuum (≤3×10−8mbar) heating stage (to >1000°C). The sensitivity of surface imaging is generally enhanced at low beam energies. With low voltages and digitally integrated fast scan techniques, conductive coating of an electrically nonconducting sample, such as a ceramic substrate, is no longer a pre-requisite for SEM, and this opens up new possibilities for minimally invasive dynamic in-situ experiments. This paper focuses on metal particle migration and sintering on a ceramic substrate.
Co-activation of NR2A and NR2B subunits induces resistance to fear extinction

Unpredictable stress is known to profoundly enhance susceptibility to fear and anxiety while reducing the ability to extinguish fear when threat is no longer present. Accordingly, partial aversive reinforcement, via random exposure to footshocks, induces fear that is resistant to extinction. Here we sought to determine the hippocampal mechanisms underlying susceptibility versus resistance to context fear extinction as a result of continuous (CR) and partial (PR) reinforcement, respectively. We focused on N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) subunits 2A and B (NR2A and NR2B) as well as their downstream signaling effector, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), based on their critical role in the acquisition and extinction of fear. Pharmacological inactivation of NR2A, but not NR2B, blocked extinction after CR, whereas inactivation of NR2A, NR2B, or both subunits facilitated extinction after PR. The latter finding suggests that co-activation of NR2A and NR2B contributes to persistent fear following PR. In contrast to CR, PR increased membrane levels of ERK and NR2 subunits after the conditioning and extinction sessions, respectively. In parallel, nuclear activation of ERK was significantly reduced after the extinction session. Thus, co-activation and increased surface expression of NR2A and NR2B, possibly mediated by ERK, may cause persistent fear. These findings suggest that patients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may benefit from antagonism of specific NR2 subunits.
Using dairy ingredients to alter texture of foods: Implications based on oral processing considerations

Abstract Food quality is directly linked to the food's appearance, texture and flavor. All three components must be in harmony for the food to be considered delicious. Understanding how various textures can be designed requires a comprehensive approach of evaluating food structure, oral processing and sensory evaluation. Oral processing considers the physiological processes in first bite, mastication and swallowing. Sensory stimuli during oral processing are used to determine the acceptance of texture. Recent research has focused on how milk proteins can be used to create desirable textures. Whey protein–polysaccharide mixtures were used to show how microstructure can be manipulated to produce a range of textures and control water release. The importance of microstructure in determining a variety of texture terms was demonstrated in whey protein emulsion gels. Finally, fat content in Cheddar cheese was shown to be critical to producing a desirable breakdown pattern. These and other applications will be discussed.
Resolution of central sites involved in picrotoxin-induced vagal activation and vasopressin release

This investigation tested the hypotheses that picrotoxin, a drug which blocks the inhibitory effect of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), would, in spinal cord-transected rats, (1) suppress the cardiac vagus when localized to the forebrain and stimulate the cardiac vagus by acting in the brainstem and (2) stimulate the release of vasopressin into the systemic circulation through separate forebrain and brainstem GABAergic mechanisms. An intra-arterial infusion technique allowed for delivery of picrotoxin selectively to either forebrain or brainstem areas. Administration of picrotoxin via the vertebral artery decreased sinus rate and increased circulating levels of vasopressin. Infusion of picrotoxin into the internal carotid artery caused increases in sinus rate, blood pressure and plasma vasopressin. These data support the hypothesis that GABAergic mechanisms at different levels of the neuraxis exert opposite effects on cardiac vagal activity, and that GABAergic mechanisms in both the brainstem and forebrain inhibit the release of AVP into the systemic circulation.
Learning without memory

After a CS--US learning trial, powerful feedback (FB) selectively modulates the hedonic value of the US, perhaps affecting the CS as well. FB. operates regardless of the subject's attributions or awareness, often influencing the subject's unconscious motives in a single trial. Most of the evidence comes from feeding research where the taste US and the internal FB are independently manipulated, but similar influences are at work with painful, thermal and sexual USs in a wide variety of species including humans. Implications for cognitive theorizing and neural research on mechanisms of learning are discussed.