cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An examination of depression through the lens of spinal cord injury. Comparative prevalence rates and severity in women and men.

Purpose This study describes the prevalence of probable major depressive disorder (MDD) as well as other depressive disorders (ODD) and severity of depressive symptoms in a national sample of women with spinal cord injury (SCI) and compares them with a case-matched sample of men with SCI. Methods A sample of 585 women was drawn and case-matched with men from the SCI Model System National SCI Database according to level/completeness of injury, follow-up year, and age. The outcome measure of depression was the Patient Health Questionnaire. Main Findings Prevalence rates for women were 7.9% for probable MDD and 9.7% for ODD; rates for men were 9.9% and 10.3%, respectively. Logistic regression revealed that women who were divorced or at year 1 follow-up had a higher odds of having probable MDD (odds ratio [OR], 3.4 and 2.9, respectively). Employed women and men had significantly lower odds of probable MDD (OR, 0.274 and 0.358, respectively). Statistically significant differences were not found in gender comparisons for either probable MDD or symptom severity, which also were not associated with injury characteristics. Conclusion The most significant, and unexpected, research finding is the absence of gender differences in probable MDD and symptom severity. Results challenge notions that depression will necessarily follow SCI; that injury characteristics determine the development and severity of depression; and that women experience a greater burden of depression than men. The main clinical implication is that depression screening and referral should be a routine feature of health care for women living with SCI, as well as for their male counterparts. Furthermore, nearly one fourth of women and men reported experiencing some or greater difficulty in daily life and relationships in the absence of probable depressive disorder, warranting monitoring of subsyndromal depression as well.
The heart of an acrobatic bird

The courtship behavior of some species of birds can be energetically demanding, but it is unknown if cardiovascular specializations enable such behaviors. While performing a highly acrobatic courtship dance, heart rate in male golden-collared manakins increases briefly to 1300 beats per minute, among the highest heart rates recorded in any bird or mammal. We hypothesize that male manakins have enhanced cardiovascular capabilities to meet these demands on the heart. Using histological and molecular techniques, we examined manakin heart structure as well as expression of genes involved in Ca2+ handling, action potential duration, steroidal signaling and cardiac growth. These measures were also made on the hearts of zebra finches, a similar-sized bird with limited cardiovascular demands. Compared to the zebra finch, the manakin had a significantly thicker left ventricular (LV) muscle (cross-sectional thickness of the free LV wall and septum) with a smaller LV chamber. In addition, compared to zebra finches, manakin hearts had significantly greater gene expression of ryanodine receptors as well as androgen receptors. Testosterone (T) treatment of non-breeding manakins (with low T) increased gene expression of the Ca2+ pump SERCA. These observations suggest that hearts of breeding male manakins require specialized Ca2+ handling and androgens may facilitate manakin cardiovascular function.
Social-ecological correlates of cyberbullying victimization and perpetration among African American youth: Negative binomial and zero-inflated negative binomial analyses

Abstract Due to the technical advancement and popularity of social media in adolescent lives, there is a growing social and policy concern about cyberbullying and victimization. However, research about cyberbullying victimization and perpetration among African American youth is limited. The current study focuses on a nationally representative sample of 2560 African American youths. Data were drawn from the 2009–2010 Health Behavior in School-aged Children, negative binomial and zero-inflated negative binomial analyses were incorporated, and the social-ecological approach was applied to examine the correlates of cyberbullying victimization and perpetration among African Americans. Results revealed that fathers' monitoring and unstructured activities with peers had a significant effect on the probability of being cyberbullied or engaging in cyberbullying in both analyses. Also, youth who talked more about their problems with friends were less likely to be cyberbullied. Further, youth who spent less time using computers had an significanlty lower likelihood of engaging in cyberbullying. The significance and implications of the social-ecological approach for African American youth cyberbullying perpetration and victimization are also discussed.
Reliability and validity of the simulation learning effectiveness inventory.

Abstract Background Instruments developed to measure simulation learning outcomes need evidence of their reliability and validity for rigorous research. The purpose of this paper is to report psychometric properties of the English version of the Simulation Learning Effectiveness Inventory. Methods Psychometric properties of the English version of the Simulation Learning Effectiveness Inventory, which included internal consistency reliability and construct validity with factor analysis, were examined in a sample of 132 undergraduate nursing students. Results Cronbach's alpha coefficients were >0.70 for all subscales. There was evidence of convergent, discriminant, and known-group validity. The factor analysis resulted in some items being associated with different subscales than in the original Chinese version. Conclusions The English version of the Simulation Learning Effectiveness Inventory has evidence of reliability and validity. Additional psychometric studies may result in changes in some of the subscales.
Methodology proposed for photogrammetric monitoring of the exotic species Hovenia dulcis Thunb. in the Green Belt area surrounding the city of Santa Cruz do Sul, RS, Brazil

The spread of the exotic species Hovenia dulcis known as Japanese raisin tree, coming from Asia, detected in a protected area of 465.0 ha surrounding the city of Santa Cruz do Sul, RS, Brazil, named “Green Belt.” In this context, this research aimed at developing an aerial monitoring system able to identify and quantify the extension in the Green Belt area that this species invaded, as well as describing the impacts caused on the local forest community. We collected data from an ultralight Flyer GT aircraft equipped with a vertical camera. The images were taking in June and July 2015, when H. dulcis trees have shed their leaves, displaying a gray color, and September and October 2015, when the leaves are young and with a light green color. Based on the methodology proposed trough aerial monitoring by photogrammetry, the results indicated that the total invaded area by H. dulcis in the Green Belt of Santa Cruz do Sul County, RS, was 131.8 ha, corresponding to 20.9% of the total area. To validate this method, a quantitative comparison between the result from a terrestrial fieldwork carried out and the proposed method showed no significant differences in the estimated area occupied by H. dulcis. We concluded that these results validate the proposed aerial assessment method.
PI-RADS: what is new and how to use it

The prostate imaging reporting and data system (PI-RADS) has revolutionized the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the management of prostate cancer (PCa). The most recent version 2.1, PI-RADS v2.1, provides specific refinements in the performance, relaxing some recommendations which were not found to be helpful, while reinforcing and clarifying others. The interpretation of T2-weighted imaging (T2WI) in the transition zone (TZ), and the overall assessment of TZ nodules, now allows for a clearer distinction between those which are clearly benign and those which might warrant tissue sampling. Additional changes also resolve discrepancies in T2WI and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) of the peripheral zone (PZ). PI-RADS v2.1 is a simpler, more straightforward, and more reproducible method to better communicate between physicians regarding findings on prostate MRI.
Retrospective motion artifact correction of structural MRI images using deep learning improves the quality of cortical surface reconstructions.

Abstract Head motion during MRI acquisition presents significant challenges for neuroimaging analyses. In this work, we present a retrospective motion correction framework built on a Fourier domain motion simulation model combined with established 3D convolutional neural network (CNN) architectures. Quantitative evaluation metrics were used to validate the method on three separate multi-site datasets. The 3D CNN was trained using motion-free images that were corrupted using simulated artifacts. CNN based correction successfully diminished the severity of artifacts on real motion affected data on a separate test dataset as measured by significant improvements in image quality metrics compared to a minimal motion reference image. On the test set of 13 image pairs, the mean peak signal-to-noise-ratio was improved from 31.7 to 33.3 dB. Furthermore, improvements in cortical surface reconstruction quality were demonstrated using a blinded manual quality assessment on the Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI) dataset. Upon applying the correction algorithm, out of a total of 617 images, the number of quality control failures was reduced from 61 to 38. On this same dataset, we investigated whether motion correction resulted in a more statistically significant relationship between cortical thickness and Parkinson's disease. Before correction, significant cortical thinning was found to be restricted to limited regions within the temporal and frontal lobes. After correction, there was found to be more widespread and significant cortical thinning bilaterally across the temporal lobes and frontal cortex. Our results highlight the utility of image domain motion correction for use in studies with a high prevalence of motion artifacts, such as studies of movement disorders as well as infant and pediatric subjects.
Early Stage Modeling of Naval DC Power System for Digital Twin Development

A model of a DC power system in development for digital twins for naval shipboard power systems is presented. The model evaluates six load profiles with four model configurations with the goal of removing lumped generation assumptions and adding predictive generation. Results are used to evaluate the relative performance of the configurations compared to initial expectations. Improvements to the model are introduced as well as a basic optimization function to be used in future iterations.
A Qualitative Examination of COVID-19's Impacts on Physical Activity and Perceptions of Remote Delivery Interventions.

PurposeThe COVID-19 pandemic is correlated with decreased physical activity (PA). Transitioning to remote work may impact people’s acceptability and preferences for remotely delivered behavioral in...
‘We Do All Want the Finer Things in Life’: Urban Street Fiction, Bad Girls, Black Femininity, and Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

This article explores the flexible application of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs to the experiences of bad girl characters in Styles’ Black and Ugly (2006) and Sister Souljah’s The Coldest Winter Ever (1999), two urban street fiction novels. Although the needs levels outlined by Maslow are considered innate when it comes to human motivation, rigid application of the theory labels inferior contexts with values that are different from the individualism which undergirds the hierarchy. Flexible application, however, provides the opportunity to challenge unequal power relations, uncover latent meaning, and expand theory. When used as a framework for analysing the needs of black females in urban street fiction, unconscious primary desires emerge as simultaneous, interconnected and progressing toward self-actualisation rather than hierarchically. In addition, collectivism, which ‘implies that people are integrated from birth into strong, cohesive groups that protect them in exchange for unquestioning loyalty’ (Brouwer, 2009: para. 1), materialises to dominate reconfigured hierarchies, and mirroring, a process involving the awareness and contestation of images which distort black female subjectivity, emerges as a supplement to the framework. As a result, ideas concerning black femininity become fluid.
Mechanical tissue resuscitation protects against myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury.

Background and Aim Reperfusion injury is a complex inflammatory response involving numerous mechanisms and pathways. Mechanical tissue resuscitation is a newly described therapeutic strategy that reduces reperfusion injury. This study further investigates potential mechanisms for the protective effects of mechanical tissue resuscitation while utilizing a bio-absorbable matrix. Methods Anesthetized swine were subjected to 80 minutes of coronary ischemia and three hours of reperfusion. An absorbable matrix was used to cover the ischemic-reperfused myocardium and apply the mechanical tissue resuscitation (−50 mmHg) throughout reperfusion. Infarct size, myocardial blood flow (microspheres), apoptosis, edema, and hemodynamics were analyzed. Results Both control and treated groups displayed similar hemodynamics and physiologic parameters. Mechanical tissue resuscitation significantly reduced early infarct size (16.6 ± 3.8% vs. 27.3 ± 2.5% of area at risk, p < 0.05). This reduction of infarct size was accompanied by reduced edema formation in both epicardial (27% reduction) and endocardial (58% reduction) samples. Histological examination of both epicardial and endocardial tissues also revealed a reduction in apoptosis (80% and 44% reductions) in MTR-treated hearts. Conclusions Treatment with mechanical tissue resuscitation during reperfusion reduces both early cell death and the delayed, programmed cell death after ischemia-reperfusion. This cardioprotection is also associated with a significant reduction in interstitial water. Additional cardioprotection may be derived from mechanical tissue resuscitation–induced increased blood flow. Mechanical tissue resuscitation, particularly with a resorbable device, is a straightforward and efficacious mechanical strategy for decreasing cardiomyocyte death following myocardial infarction as an adjunctive therapy to surgical revascularization. doi: 10.1111/jocs.12247 (J Card Surg 2014;29:116-123)
Critical Factors Governing Crack Propagation at the Interface of Fire Insulation and Slender Steel Trusses

AbstractThis article presents a numerical approach in which the implicit finite element method and fracture mechanics concepts are applied to simulate crack propagation at the interface of fire insulation and truss members in steel framed buildings. An intrinsic cohesive zone model (CZM) in conjunction with contact interaction analysis is applied to model the progression of fracture at the interface of fire insulation and slender steel truss members. Experimentally determined cohesive zone properties are utilized to simulate the progressive delamination in three types of commercially available spray-applied fire-resistive material (SFRM) applied on a truss chord. The numerical model, which is initially validated against the previously conducted fracture experiments, is employed to perform a sensitivity analysis with respect to CZM parameters, SFRM elastic modulus, and thickness of SFRM. Results obtained from a sensitivity study are subsequently utilized to define a delamination characteristic parameter (d...
ChipPower: an architecture-level leakage simulator

Leakage power is projected to be one of the major challenges in future technology generations. The temperature profile, process variation, and transistor count all have strong impact on the leakage power distribution of a processor. We have built a simulator to estimate the dynamic/leakage power for a VLIW architecture considering dynamic temperature feedback and process variation. The framework is based on architecture similar to the Intel Itanium IA64 and is extended to simulate its power when implemented in 65nm technology. Our experimental results show that leakage power will become more than 50% of the power budget in 65nm technology. Moreover, without including the process variation, the total leakage power will be underestimated by as much as 30%.
Degrees of Functions with no Fixed Points

Publisher Summary The fixed-point form of Kleene's recursion theorem asserts that for every recursive function f : ω→ ω, there exists an e ∈ ω with W e = W fe . This chapter discusses the results about the Turing degrees of functions that are fixed-point free (FPF) in the sense that We≠ W fe for all e ∈ ω. This is easily seen to coincide with the class of degrees of all functions, g, which are diagonally nonrecursive (DNR). The chapter reviews the studies on the degrees of functions whose nonrecursiveness is ensured by the diagonal method. The degrees of the recursively bounded DNR functions coincide with the degrees of the effectively immune, nonhyperimmune sets.
Carbonic anhydrase isoenzymes in normal human endometrium and erythrocytes

Abstract The total carbonic anhydrase activity of human endometrium doubled during the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle. Erythrocytes contained two isoenzymes that were also found in both proliferative and secretory phase endometrium, although these carbonic anhydrases were unaffected by hormonal changes that accompanied the normal menstrual cycle. In contrast, secretory phase endometrium contained a uterine-specific isoenzyme that was present only during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle.
High Performance Computers and Algorithms From Linear Algebra

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses high performance computers and algorithms from linear algebra. As multiprocessor designs proliferate, research efforts should focus on "generic" algorithms that can be easily transported across various architectures. If a code has been written in terms of high level synchronization and data management primitives, that are expected to be supported by every member of the model of computation, then these primitives only need to be customized to a particular realization. A very high level of transportability may be achieved through automating the transformation of these primitives. The benefit to software maintenance, particularly for large codes, is in the isolation of synchronization and data management peculiarities. One should be prepared to give up a marginal amount of efficiency in trade for reduced man power requirements to use and maintain software. There are many possibilities for implementation of the general ideas, which are briefly described in the chapter.
Simulation of Instabilities and Sound Radiation in a Jet

The inflow and near field of a jet that is excited by an axial mass source located in the potential core are simulated numerically. The simulation takes into account the spreading of the jet. Comparison is made with experimental results for both excited and unexcited jets. It is shown that many of the features observed experimentally are due to the instability of the mean profile (i.e., the large-scale structures) and not due to the turbulence. The instability is shown to generate low-frequency sound. The terms identified by Ribner as the shear noise terms are shown to be responsible for this sound generation.
Applications of ammonium formate-catalytic transfer hydrogenation. Part V (1). Transfer hydrogenolysis of peptides containing p-chlorophenylalanine as a convenient method for preparation of deuterium labeled peptides.

Dehalogenation of chlorine bound to aromatic nuclei has been achieved using ammonium formate-catalytic transfer hydrogenation (AF-CTH) techniques. The use of deuterated ammonium formate as the transfer agent in the CTH process when performed in a deuterated solvent medium results in the predominant formation of the labeled product. Thus, ND+4 DCOO(-)-CTH of [D-Ala2, p-ClPhe4]-Leu-enkephalin in 80% CD3COOD/D2O yielded [D-Ala2, Phe (4D)4]-Leu-enkephalin. Levels of D-incorporation were measured by fast atom bombardment-mass spectrometry (FAB-MS) and/or by 13C n.m.r. spectroscopy. Using D-labeled and unlabeled ammonium formate in stoichiometrically similar reactions, it was concluded that the hydrogenation exhibited a primary kinetic isotope effect. Reactant and product concentrations were determined by amino acid analysis and reversed phase HPLC.
The Political Economy of Caribbean Regionalism in the Twenty-First Century: Rebirth or Resuscitation?

This research was submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in the field of Government to the Division of Continuing Education, Faculty of Arts & Sciences. It was directed/supervised by Professor David E. Bloom, the Clarence James Gamble Professor of Economics and Demography at the Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health. The related master's degree was awarded on 6 November 2012
Streamlining biological data analysis using BioFlow

For several obvious and practical reasons, resources needed for biological data analysis are often geographically distributed and are accessible through the Internet. Such resources usually include data repositories, analysis tools, digital documents, and so on. Such an arrangement warrants sophisticated data and process integration tools in order to design ad hoc higher level applications using these online resources. In this paper we present such a system, called the BioFlow, that exploits recent advances in workflow technology and Internet computing in order to provide support for ad hoc application development by hiding aspects related to the heterogeneity and distributive nature of the resources required by user applications. We introduce the salient features of the BioFlow system, discuss briefly its architecture and implementation issues using simple but real life applications. We demonstrate that the declarative language on which BioFlow is based makes our system quite intuitive, easy to use, effective and efficient for ad hoc application design. The approach taken in BioFlow is somewhat similar to the idea of web services in semantic web computing for biological applications.
Implementing the IEEE/ACM CC2001-CS model

This paper describes the benefits anticipated by the adoption of the Computing Curricula 2001 - Computer Science (CC2001-CS) developed jointly by IEEE and ACM. It spells out the process of implementing the CC2001-CS model and the rationale for key decisions. It also presents the final product - our new Computer Information Science (CIS) curriculum, which becomes effective in Fall 2003 at Washburn University, with a course listing and a knowledge unit distribution matrix. A survey was conducted to gather information from Computer Information Sciences (CIS) departments in our region regarding the adoption of the CC2001-CS model. Findings from the survey are shared. Based on lessons learned and survey results, recommendations are offered to schools thinking of implementing the CC2001-CS model.
Controller synthesis for implicitly defined uncertain systems

This paper builds on the previous work by the authors of providing a general framework for modeling and analysis of uncertain systems. This work centers on the use of implicit equations to characterize uncertain systems, in a manner consistent with the behavioral framework. We propose a method for synthesizing controllers for implicitly defined uncertain systems, which reduces to the so called D-K iteration procedure when the system can be written in explicit form. One immediate consequence of this work is a practical method for synthesizing controllers in the presence of norm bounded perturbations and both norm-bounded and white-noise disturbances, which encompasses the so called robust /spl Hscr//sub 2/ synthesis problem. >
Groucho/TLE/R-esp proteins associate with the nuclear matrix and repress RUNX (CBF(alpha)/AML/PEBP2(alpha)) dependent activation of tissue-specific gene transcription

The Runt related transcription factors RUNX (AML/CBF(alpha)/PEBP2(alpha)) are key regulators of hematopoiesis and osteogenesis. Using co-transfection experiments with four natural promoters, including those of the osteocalcin (OC), multi drug resistance (MDR), Rous Sarcoma Virus long terminal repeat (LTR), and bone sialoprotein (BSP) genes, we show that each of these promoters responds differently to the forced expression of RUNX proteins. However, the three RUNX subtypes (i.e. AML1, AML2, and AML3) regulate each promoter in a similar manner. Although the OC promoter is activated in a C terminus dependent manner, the MDR, LTR and BSP promoters are repressed by three distinct mechanisms, either independent of or involving the AML C terminus, or requiring only the conserved C-terminal pentapeptide VWRPY. Using yeast two hybrid assays we find that the C terminus of AML1 interacts with a Groucho/TLE/R-esp repressor protein. Co-expression assays reveal that TLE proteins repress AML dependent activation of OC gene transcription. Western and northern blot analyses suggest that TLE expression is regulated reciprocally with the levels of OC gene expression during osteoblast differentiation. Digital immunofluorescence microscopy results show that TLE1 and TLE2 are both associated with the nuclear matrix, and that a significant subset of each colocalizes with AML transcription factors. This co-localization of TLE and AML proteins is lost upon removing the C terminus of AML family members. Our findings indicate that suppression of AML-dependent gene activation by TLE proteins involves functional interactions with the C terminus of AML at the nuclear matrix in situ. Our data are consistent with the concept that the C termini of AML proteins support activation or repression of cell-type specific genes depending on the regulatory organization of the target promoter and subnuclear localization.
Peptide-based antibodies against glutathione-binding domains suppress superoxide production mediated by mitochondrial complex I.

Complex I (NQR) is a critical site of superoxide () production and the major host of redox protein thiols in mitochondria. In response to oxidative stress, NQR-derived protein thiols at the 51- and 75-kDa subunits are known to be reversibly S-glutathionylated. Although several glutathionylated domains from NQR 51 and 75 kDa have been identified, their roles in the regulatory functions remain to be explored. To gain further insights into protein S-glutathionylation of complex I, we used two peptides of S-glutathionylated domain (200GAGAYICGEETALIESIEGK219 of 51-kDa protein and 361VDSDTLCTEEVFPTAGAGTDLR382 of 75-kDa protein) as chimeric epitopes incorporating a “promiscuous” T-cell epitope to generate two polyclonal antibodies, AbGSCA206 and AbGSCB367. Binding of AbGSCA206 and AbGSCB367 inhibited NQR-mediated generation by 37 and 57%, as measured by EPR spin-trapping. To further provide an appropriate control, two peptides of non-glutathionylated domain (21SGDTTAPKKTSFGSLKDFDR40 of 51-kDa peptide and 100WNILTNSEKTKKAREGVMEFL120 of 75-kDa peptide) were synthesized as chimeric epitopes to generate two polyclonal antibodies, Ab51 and Ab75. Binding of A51 did not affect NQR-mediated generation to a significant level. However, binding of Ab75 inhibited NQR-mediated generation by 35%. None of AbGSCA206, AbGSCB367, Ab51, or Ab75 showed an inhibitory effect on the electron transfer activity of NQR, suggesting that antibody binding to the glutathione-binding domain decreased electron leakage from the hydrophilic domain of NQR. When heart tissue homogenates were immunoprecipitated with Ab51 or Ab75 and probed with an antibody against glutathione, protein S-glutathionylation was enhanced in post-ischemic myocardium at the NQR 51-kDa subunit, but not at the 75-kDa subunit, indicating that the 51-kDa subunit of flavin subcomplex is more sensitive to oxidative stress resulting from myocardial infarction.
Measurement of concrete internal strain using a three-dimensional transducer system

A new three-dimensional transducer system is introduced in this paper, which enables the measurement of six internal components of strain tensor in concrete members. Laboratory tests and strain analyses were carried out to evaluate this tranducer system. The results show that the system is effective in measuring internal strains of concrete members. It was then embedded in a reinforced concrete bridge deck in Macomb County, Michigan. Field tests were conducted to measure the strains in the deck under truck wheel load. The results were used to understand the deck's strain and stress behavior under truck wheel load.
Drosophila CTCF Is Required for Fab-8 Enhancer Blocking Activity in S2 Cells

CTCF is a conserved transcriptional regulator with binding sites in DNA insulators identified in vertebrates and invertebrates. The Drosophila Abdominal-B locus contains CTCF binding sites in the Fab-8 DNA insulator. Previous reports have shown that Fab-8 has enhancer blocking activity in Drosophila transgenic assays. We now confirm the enhancer blocking capability of the Fab-8 insulator in stably transfected Drosophila S2 cells and show this activity depends on the Fab-8 CTCF binding sites. Furthermore, knockdown of Drosophila CTCF by RNAi in our stable cell lines demonstrates that CTCF itself is critical for Fab-8 enhancer blocking.
Presentation rate and the serial-position effect of immediate serial recall

This study examined the effects of rate of presentation on the serial organization of lists of words near and beyond span-length. The S s were instructed for the serial (ordered) recall of the lists. Recall was better at slower rates of presentation, but the improvement in recall at the slower rates did not extend to terminal items of a list. Slower rates were found to increase the size of the initial span and to facilitate the ordering of items in recall as requested. Emphasis was placed on both order of presentation and order of recall as determiners of serial-position effects.
Thermal Contact Conductance of Non-Flat, Rough, Metallic Coated Metals

Thermal contact conductance is an important consideration in such applications as thermally induced stress in supersonic and hypersonic flight vehicles, nuclear reactor cooling, electronics packaging, spacecraft thermal control, and gas turbine and internal combustion engine cooling. In many instances, the highest possible thermal contact conductance is desired. For this reason, soft, high conductivity, metallic coatings are sometimes applied to contacting surfaces (often metallic) to increase thermal contact conductance. Two previously developed theoretical models for thermal contact conductance of metallic coated metals have been proven accurate for flat, rough surfaces. However, these two theories often substantially over-predict the conductance of non-flat, rough, metallic coated metals. In this investigation, a previously developed semi-empirical conductance model for flat and non-flat, rough, uncoated metals is employed in predicting the conductance of flat and non-flat, rough, metallic coated metals. The more commonly cited of the previous theoretical models for flat surfaces and the semi-empirical model are compared to experimental thermal contact conductance results from a number of investigations in the literature. Results for a number of metallic coating/substrate combinations on surfaces with widely varying flatness and roughness were analyzed. Both models agree well with experimental results for flat, rough, metallic coated metals. However, the semi-empiricalmore » model is substantially more accurate and more conservative than the theoretical model compared to the majority of experimental results for non-flat, rough, metallic coated metals.« less
On patched variational principles with application to elliptic and mixed elliptic-hyperbolic problems

Variational principles are important tools for the approximate solution of boundary-value problems. There are many types of variational principles, and each has its advantages and disadvantages. In this paper we show how to use a combination of variational principles, each for a given subregion of the underlying region of space, so as to best utilize the chief benefits of the individual principles. Such a patched principle is particularly useful in solving transonic flow problems, where we use different principles in the elliptic and hyperbolic regions. We present the results of some numerical experiments for the Tricomi problem. These seem to indicate that our patched principle, when used in conjunction with the finite element method, leads to accuracy which is second-order in the mesh spacing, as compared to the standard numerical methods of solving this problem, which are only first-order.
Binomial self-inverse sequences and tangent coefficients

Abstract This paper treats the class of sequences {an} that satisfy the recurrence relation a 2n+1 =∑ k=0 n (−1) k ( n k a k d n−k between the odd and even terms of {an} that involves the coefficients of tan(t), namely a 2n+1 =∑ k=0 n (−1) k ( 2 n +1 2 k +1 ) T k (d/2) 2k+1 a 2n−2k A combinatorial setting is then provided to elucidate the appearance of the tangent coefficients in this equation.
Torque balance at a line of contact

Abstract Kerins and Boiteux (Physica A 117 (1983) 575) were the first to apply Noether's theorem to the van der Waals theory of non-uniform fluids. In particular, for a three-phase line of contact, they showed that the translation invariance of the variational integral for the excess free energy implies a balance of forces at the three-phase line. In this paper we consider the implications of the rotation invariance of the variational integral for the excess free energy. Intuitively, one would expect this invariance to lead to an equation of torque balance, and this is indeed the case—the total moment of the forces around the line of contact is zero. In the course of the calculation it will be necessary to find an expression for the surface of tension for a model with a multi-component density, which is a simple extension of earlier work by Fisher and Wortis (Phys. Rev. 29 (1984) 6252). At the same time, we extend to multi-component densities those authors’ results for the Tolman length and the equimolar surface, making contact with a more general calculation by Groenewold and Bedeaux (Physica A 214 (1995) 356).
Bilateral magnetic resonance imaging-determined hippocampal atrophy and verbal memory before and after temporal lobectomy.

Summary: We investigated pre- and postoperative verbal memory in temporal lobectomy patients who had volumetrically symmetric hippocampi. Pre- and postoperative verbal memory data based on the Logical Memory subtest of the Wechsler Memory Scale-Revised (WMS-R) were obtained from 15 left and 18 right temporal lobectomy patients. The difference between hippocampal volumes (R/L) was between -0.1 and 0.3 cm3, which is indeterminate for lateralizing hippocampal atrophy. Patients were divided into four groups based on side of operation and combined hippocampal volume expressed as a function of total intracranial volume (R + L volume/total intracranial volume). Patients with a combined hippocampal volume that was smaller than any combined hippocampal value of a normal control group were defined as bilaterally atrophic. Left temporal lobectomy patients demonstrated the expected decrease in verbal memory postoperatively regardless of whether the volumetrically symmetric hippocampi were nonatrophic or atrophic. Left temporal lobectomy patients with bilaterally atrophic hippocampi, however, had the poorest verbal memory before and after operation. Right temporal lobectomy patients tended to have improved verbal memory after operation whether or not the volumetrically symmetric hippocampi were atrophic. We conclude that side of operation is a more potent predictor of verbal memory outcome than is hippocampal atrophy when hippocampi are bilaterally symmetric and that left temporal lobectomy patients with bilateral atrophy may be at risk for greater functional deficits after operation.
In vivo forces in the anterior cruciate ligament: direct measurements during walking and trotting in a quadruped

In vivo forces in the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) were measured in three adult goats during quiet standing and during gait (walking or trotting). A modified pressure transducer (MPT) was implanted within the anteromedial band of the ligament to make direct measurements of ACL force. One or two days following implantation, measurements were made of ACL force, knee joint flexion angle, ground reaction forces, and speed of locomotion. MPT calibration was performed in vitro using anteroposterior displacement tests at six flexion angles. The ACL was loaded during quiet standing (30-61 N) and during the stance phase of gait. Peak ACL forces were achieved within the first 40% of stance, with magnitudes ranging from 63 to 124 N during walking and from 102 to 150 N during trotting. The average ACL force during the stance phase ranged from 34 to 68 N while walking and from 46 to 69 N while trotting. The partial correlations between peak ACL force and speed, and between average ACL force and speed, were both statistically different from zero (p < 0.01). ACL forces dropped to zero during the swing phase in all trials. ACL forces were less than 15 N throughout swing in two of the animals, both of which did not extend their knees during gait beyond 20 degrees from full extension. In the animal which did show knee extension beyond 40 degrees (20 degrees from full extension), ACL loading occurred during late swing. The magnitude of the peak ACL force during late swing was significantly correlated with the extent of knee extension in this animal.
Route to the minimum pulse duration in normal-dispersion fiber lasers.

The factors that control the pulse duration in all-normal-dispersion lasers are identified. To minimize the pulse duration the cavity dispersion should be as small as possible. For fixed dispersion increasing pulse energy leads to shorter pulses with more structured spectra. Experiments performed with ordinary single-mode fiber at 1 μm wavelength agree reasonably with numerical simulations and produce clean ~80 fs pulses. The simulations indicate that 30 fs pulses can be reached at higher energies.
Cyclotron motion in a Penning-trap microwave cavity.

The cavity shifts in the cyclotron motion of a charged particle in a hyperbolic Penning trap are described using a numerical evaluation of the cavity-mode structure. The frequency shifts are about half as large in the hyperbolic cavity as in a cylindrical cavity of equivalent size. However, this still implies an error in the g-2 experiment that is easily five times the present statistical uncertainty. To account for slit electrodes and imperfect tolerances in existing traps, experimental measurements of the mode structure are still needed. The resonant frequencies of a microwave cavity can be measured very precisely. We show here that an accuracy of 10% in the measurements of certain coupling constants is sufficient to compute the shifts for the g-2 experiment at the level of one part in ${10}^{9}$.
Dependence of insulin secretion from permeabilized pancreatic β-cells on the activation of Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II: A re-evaluation of inhibitor studies

Previous studies utilizing inhibitors of the Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaM kinase II) to address the role of this enzyme in insulin secretion have produced contradictory results. In the current study, these inconsistencies have been addressed by evaluating the effect of various CaM kinase II inhibitors to decrease Ca(2+)-induced insulin secretion from permeabilized beta-cells. KN-93 (2-[N-(2-hydroxyethyl)-N-(4-methoxy-benzenesulfonyl)]-amino-N-(4-chlo rocinnamyl)-N-methylbenzylamine) markedly inhibited both CaM kinase II activation and insulin secretion in parallel in alpha-toxin-permeabilized beta-cells. These effects were specific since they were not mimicked by the inactive analog, KN-92 (2-[N-(4-methoxy-benzenesulfonyl)]-amino-N-(4-chlorocinnamyl)-N-methy lbenzylamine). In contrast, KN-62 (1-[N, O-bis(5-isoquinolinesulfonyl)-N-methyl-l-tyrosyl]-4-phenylpiperazine) , while reported to be similar to KN-93 with respect to mechanism of action, did not inhibit Ca(2+)-induced activation of CaM kinase II or insulin secretion in these cell preparations. All three agents suppressed Ca(2+) influx in intact beta-cells induced by depolarization in the presence of elevated extracellular potassium although to different extents. The synthetic peptide inhibitors of CaM kinase II, [Ala(286)]CaMK 281-302 and AIP (autocamtide-2-related inhibitory peptide), strongly inhibited Ca(2+)-induced insulin secretion from electropermeabilized islets, an effect that also correlated with an equivalent inhibition of CaM kinase II activation. This re-evaluation (i) explains a lack of effect of KN-62 on insulin secretion from permeabilized cells based on its inability to inhibit CaM kinase II activation in these preparations; (ii) has revealed that CaM inhibitors, either chemical or peptide in nature, that are capable of preventing enzyme activation uniformly suppress Ca(2+)-sensitive insulin secretion; and (iii) cautions the use of KN-62/93/92 as selective inhibitors of CaM kinase II in intact cell studies. These observations reinforce the suggestion that CaM kinase II plays an important role in insulin exocytosis in the beta-cell.
Executive dysfunction in children with early brain disease: Outcomes post Haemophilus influenzae meningitis

Neuropsychological data from a study of the sequelae of Haemophilus influenzae type b meningitis were analyzed to investigate the validity of tests of executive function. The total sample of school‐age children was divided into two groups. The affected group comprised the 53 children who had had the disease and were considered at risk for sequelae. The unaffected group consisted of the remaining 170 children considered at no or minimal risk for sequelae. To examine construct validity, data from the unaffected group were submitted to an exploratory factor analysis. Factor composites were then computed to assess the validity of the factors as measures of disease sequelae and as correlates of achievement and behavioral outcomes. Construct validity was demonstrated by evidence for three executive factors, termed Response Speed, Response Inhibition, and Planning‐Sequencing. Evidence for concurrent validity was provided by group differences in the Response Speed composite and by associations of all three execut...
The bigraded homotopy groups πi, jX of a pointed simplicial space X

Abstract Simplicial spaces are analogues in the category of spaces of chain complexes (i.e., resolutions) in homological algebra. We study a novel way of doing “homotopy theory” with these objects, and describe the associated homotopy groups (which are graded by two indices). These homotopy groups give, for instance, a simple geometric interpretation of the filtration on the homotopy of the realization of a simplicial space provided by the usual homotopy spectral sequence.
Dysregulation of the BMP‐4 Signaling Pathway in Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva

Identification of gene mutations in Mendelian disorders is often determined by linkage analysis and positional cloning, an approach that is difficult for fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) due to a low reproductive fitness that results in a small number of multigenerational families showing inheritance of the disease. Altered signaling pathways can be investigated as a complementary method to identify the consequences of the mutated gene responsible for FOP and to identify potential therapeutic targets. Candidate signaling pathways for FOP are those that malfunctioning could account for the malformation of the great toes during embryonic development and could explain the postnatal progressive heterotopic endochondral ossification. Signaling pathways that fit these criteria are the BMP signaling pathway and its interacting pathways. A large body of data suggest that the BMP-4 signaling pathway is dysregulated in FOP.
Overview of Infant and Pediatric Formulas

Because every child has individual needs, there are a variety of infant and pediatric formulas from which to choose. Not only are there several categories of formulas including milk protein-based, soy protein-based, hydrolyzed protein, and amino acid-based, but there are differences between products within each category. Research is being done in the area of formula design for the prevention or treatment of disease. In this article, the authors review types of formulas and their indications for use for infants and children, and review current literature on formula trends.
Financing civil society for a global responsibility

Abstract The global civil society is exercising an increasingly important role in supporting innovative, democratic people-centred policy changes in global affairs. For the majority of people, solutions for poverty alleviation, the security of productive employment and livelihoods and for the restoration of the integrity of the environment are rooted in private or community-based initiatives. The establishment of an independent global Civil Society Development Fund, with a web of regional and local affiliates, can create the basis for an independent civil society which is able to seek its own solutions to global problems.
Heat conduction in an undulating heating wire

An undulating electric wire generates internal heat by Joule heating. The surface temperature is maintained constant by forced convection. The heat conduction in the wire is solved by using intrinsic coordinates and a perturbation about the (small) ratio of the wire radius to the minimum radius of curvature of the centerline. For the non-uniformly heated wire undulations cause an increase in total heat transfer in comparison with a straight wire of same length and volume.
Comparison of postoperative hepatic function after laparoscopic versus open gastric bypass

Abstract Background Pneumoperitoneum has been shown to reduce hepatic portal blood flow and alter postoperative hepatic transaminases. This study evaluated the changes in hepatic function after laparoscopic and open gastric bypass (GBP). Methods Thirty-six morbidly obese patients were randomly assigned to undergo either laparoscopic (n = 18) or open (n = 18) GBP. Liver function tests—total bilirubin (T Bil), gamma GT (GGT), albumin, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate transferase (AST), alanine transferase (ALT)—and creatine kinase levels were obtained preoperatively and at 1, 24, 48, and 72 hours postoperatively. Results The two groups were similar in age, sex, and body mass index. Albumin and ALP levels decreased while T Bil and GGT levels remained unchanged from baseline in both groups without significant difference between the two groups. After laparoscopic GBP, ALT and AST transiently increased by sixfold and returned to near baseline levels at 72 hours. After open GBP, ALT and AST transiently increased by fivefold to eightfold and returned to near baseline levels by 72 hours. Creatine kinase level was significantly lower after laparoscopic GBP than after open GBP at 48 and 72 hours postoperatively. There was no postoperative liver failure or mortality in either group. Conclusions Laparoscopic GBP resulted in transient postoperative elevation of hepatic transaminase (ALT, AST) but did not adversely alter hepatic function to any greater extent than open GBP. Creatine kinase levels were lower after laparoscopic GBP reflecting its lesser degree of abdominal wall trauma.