cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Theoretical Study of Swelling of Structural Materials in Light Water Reactors at High Fluencies

A mean-field, cluster dynamics model of the microstructure evolution in austenitic steels of light water reactors which reproduces the incubation period of swelling has been developed for the first time. In agreement with observations, it predicts that, although the void nucleation starts from the very beginning of irradiation, their growth beyond certain, relatively small size is delayed until the onset of the transient period of swelling. Such a delayed growth of voids is explained by the frequent interaction of voids randomly distributed over the volume with one-dimensionally migrating clusters of self-interstitial atoms, which are produced in cascades of atomic displacements. The incubation period of swelling is followed by the transient stage, when voids start to grow with increasing rate due to development of the experimentally-observed spatial correlations between voids and extended defects, such as second-phase precipitates and dislocations, which screen voids from the mobile clusters. A critical role of residual gas on void nucleation, which diminishes importance of He atoms from transmutation reactions, is revealed.
TRACKING CHANGES IN THE UPPER BOUNDARY OF THE HEAVY-INTENSITY EXERCISE DOMAIN: END-TEST POWER VERSUS RESPIRATORY COMPENSATION POINT

The aim of this study was to compare how respiratory compensation point (RCP) and end-test power (EP) change in response to the same four-week high intensity interval training (HIIT). The power output associated with RCP and EP before and after HIIT were recorded in 24 recreationally active participants (14 men and 10 women). RCP was determined from an incremental exercise test and EP was derived from a three-minute maximal effort test on a cycle ergometer. A significant time (pretest/posttest) × measurement (EP/RCP) interaction was found (F(1, 23)=5.119, p<.05). Results from a paired-sample t-test indicated that both EP (t(23)= -5.221, p<.05) and RCP (t(23)=-3.049, p<.05) increased significantly from pretest to posttest. Furthermore, a small effect size (d=.36, 90%CI=[.13, .58]) was calculated for the pre/posttest changes in the examined thresholds indicating greater potential improvements in EP compared to RCP. The pre/posttest change in EP (mean=21 W, 90%CI=[14, 28 W]) exceeded its standard error of estimate (14 W), while RCP did not. Correlation analysis revealed that EP correlated with RCP at both pretest (r=.813, p<.05) and posttest (r=.873, p<.05), however, delta values between the two measures were not significantly related. Both EP and RCP can be used to assess the change of aerobic capacity after HIIT, but may be reflective of different physiological adaptations. Further, EP may be preferred over RCP when assessing the effects of HIIT. Key words: training, testing, physiology, fatigue
Drawing New Boundaries: Finding the Origins of Dragons in Carboniferous Plant Fossils

Dragons thrive in gaps between and beyond spatial boundaries. Can science help explain their existence? Did humans’ investigation of natural phenomena create bits and pieces of dragon lore across c...
Economic Development and the Transfer Mechanism: Canada, 1895-1913

Among the several inductive studies of the international transfer mechanism, Professor Viner's investigation of Canada's foreign borrowings in the period 1900–13 has provided the most convincing substantiation of the classical price-specie-flow mechanism. Yet, on the theoretical level, the neo-Keynesian theory of international trade now makes it difficult to accept the classical view of the transfer process as a complete explanation. And, on the empirical level, the availability of more comprehensive statistics and further research in Canada's economic history now allow us to understand in greater detail the forces of economic growth which were particularly strong in Canada during the years of foreign borrowing. Should we not therefore attempt to supplement Professor Viner's study by recognizing the relevance of income analysis and the historical context of economic development? To place Professor Viner's study in this wider frame of analysis is the objective of this paper. Section one briefly recalls the conclusions of Professor Viner's investigation. The second section establishes some significant features of Canada's economic development, while the final section relates these features to the operation of the transfer mechanism and revises Professor Viner's interpretation.
Electronic Stability Control

Vehicle stability control systems that prevent vehicles from spinning and drifting out have been developed and recently commercialized by several automotive manufacturers. Such stability control systems are also often referred to as yaw stability control systems or electronic stability control systems.
Reply to "On Stapp's`Nonlocal Character of Quantum Theory' "

The question raised by Shimony and Stein is examined and used to explain in more detail a key point of my proof that any theory that conforms to certain general ideas of orthodox relativistic quantum field theory must permit transfers of information over spacelike intervals. It is also explained why this result is not a problem for relativistic quantum theory, but, on the contrary, opens the door to a satisfactory realistic relativistic quantum theory based on the ideas of Tomonaga, Schwinger, and von Neumann.
Grossman, Wendy A. Man Ray, African Art, and the Modernist Lens

Review of GROSSMAN, WENDY A. Man Ray, African Art, and the Modernist Lens. With an essay by Ian Walker and additional contributions by Yaelle Biro … et al. Washington: International Arts and Artists; Minneapolis: Distributed by University of Minnesota Press, 2009. ISBN 978-0-8166-7017-8. xv + 183 pages.
Reasons for Manuscript Rejection After Peer Review From the Journal Headache

Objective To identify and characterize the reasons manuscripts are rejected after peer review from the journal Headache. Background Numerous editorials, reviews, and research manuscripts have been published on the topic of manuscript rejection. However, few of these papers evaluate the reasons for rejection after peer review systematically. None are specific to the field of neurology or headache medicine. Methods A retrospective analysis of all submissions to Headache from January 1, 2014 through December 31, 2016 was performed. Peer reviewer and editor comments for each manuscript were reviewed, and unlimited reasons for rejection were coded for each manuscript. Detailed reasons for rejection were then grouped into 9 broader categories. Results A total of 784 submissions were received from January 1, 2014 through December 31, 2016. Of those, 336 were immediately rejected and 434 went on to peer review. During this period, the overall rejection rate was 62.6% and the rejection rate after peer review was 35.7%. The 6 most common reasons for rejection after peer review were: flaws in methodology and study design, poor reporting of methodology, poor statistical analysis, overstatement of conclusions, problems with covariates or outcomes, and problems with the control or case group. Conclusion Flaws in methodology and study design were the most common reasons for rejection after peer review from Headache between 2014-2016.
Heavy is the Head that Wears a Crown: High-reputation firms and their risk-taking behavior

Extant theory predicts high-performing firms are risk averse. In contrast, we argue that managers in high-reputation firms are risk seeking as they attempt to meet high growth expectations under th...
Cluster of Sphingomonas paucimobilis Bacteremias Linked to Diversion of Intravenous Hydromorphone

Sphingomonas Outbreak from Tap Water–Diluted Opiate A cluster of cases of Sphingomonas paucimobilis bacteremia was discovered, and the bacteremias were noted to be caused by intravenous administrat...
Mobile technology and cumulative trauma symptomology among millennials

IntroductionTechnology use among the millennial population is increasing and related postural compromise may lead to cumulative trauma disorder symptomology. The aim of this study was to explore tr...
Estimating States for Nonlinear Systems Using the Particle Filter.

Kalman filtering has been traditionally applied in three application areas of estimation, state estimation, parameter estimation (a.k.a. model updating), and dual estimation. However, Kalman filter is often not sufficient when experimenting with highly uncertain nonlinear dynamic systems. In this study, a nonlinear estimator is developed by adopting a particle filter algorithm that takes advantage of measured signals. This approach is shown to significantly improve the ability to estimate states. To illustrate this approach, a model for a nonlinear device coupled with a hydraulic actuator plays the role of an actual plant and a nonlinear algebraic function is considered as an approximation of the nonlinear device, thus generating non-parametric and parametric uncertainties. Then we use displacement and force signals to improve the distribution of the states by resampling the set of particles. Finally, all of the states are estimated from these posterior density functions. A set of simulations considering three different noise levels demonstrates that the performance of the particle filter approach is superior to the Kalman filter, yielding substantially better performance when estimating nonlinear physical systems in the presence of modeling uncertainties.
GATA2 deficiency during embryogenesis elevates Interferon Regulatory Factor-8 to subvert a progenitor cell differentiation program

Cell type-specific transcription factors control stem and progenitor cell transitions by establishing networks containing hundreds of genes and proteins. Network complexity renders it challenging to discover essential versus modulatory or redundant components. This scenario is exemplified by GATA2 regulation of hematopoiesis during embryogenesis. Previously, we demonstrated that loss of murine Gata2-77 enhancer disrupts the GATA2-dependent genetic network governing erythro-myeloid differentiation. The aberrant network includes the transcription factor Interferon Regulatory Factor-8 and a host of innate immune regulators. Mutant progenitors lose the capacity to balance production of diverse myelo-erythroid progeny. To elucidate mechanisms, we asked if IRF8 is essential, contributory or not required. Irf8 ablation, in the context of the -77 mutant allele, reversed granulocytic deficiencies of -77-/- embryos and rescued an imbalance of dendritic cell progenitors. Despite many dysregulated components that control vital processes, including transcription and signaling, aberrant elevation of a single transcription factor deconstructed the differentiation program.
Endoscopic Mucosal Resection for Early Esophageal and Gastric Cancers

Endoscopic therapy of upper gastrointestinal cancers, especially early esophageal and gastric cancer, has revolutionized the management of these conditions in the last three decades. Endoscopic resection such as endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) serves a pivotal role in diagnosis, staging and curative resection of early esophageal and gastric cancer limited to mucosa. In this chapter, we will discuss the now widely used and highly effective therapy of EMR for early esophageal and gastric neoplasia. Types and techniques of EMR, clinical indications, and benefits and risks of its use in these two entities will be reviewed.
Coping with cultural differences in healthcare: Chinese immigrant mothers’ health information sharing via WeChat

Abstract Immigrants face the challenge of obtaining culturally specific health information and adapting to a new healthcare system. Through qualitative content analysis, this study explores how Chinese immigrant mothers use the ethnic social media—WeChat to engage in health information sharing and coping with cultural differences in healthcare between the U.S. and China. Based on the data collected from one WeChat group in a metropolitan city in the northeastern U.S., Chinese immigrant mothers frequently discuss the topics of “doctors and hospitals,” “insurance and cost,” “medicine and treatment,” and “alternative health care.” They constantly compare Chinese health care beliefs and practices with western ones. They adopt various acculturation strategies to manage the cultural differences in healthcare beliefs, practices, and systems. We call for future research to further examine immigrants’ health information sharing via social media and consider acculturation as coping strategies or processes in the health communication context.
Social elites, popular discontent, and the limits of cooptation

Rulers face challenges in governing distant or hostile populations. In response, they may coopt elites from those groups into relationships of indirect rule, thereby boosting their perceived legitimacy and ensuring compliance with their policies. Because a ruler’s goals diverge from a hostile population’s preferences, an important tension results: the elite’s cooperation becomes more valuable to the ruler, but their ability to foster compliance is strained. How does that tension influence the ruler’s governance strategy and the resulting bargain between the ruler and the elite? I construct a model of cooptation showing that a legitimating elite’s bargaining power is non-monotonic with respect to preference divergence between a ruler and the citizenry. Bargaining power for the elite is increasing in preference divergence at low levels and falls discontinuously once divergence passes a threshold. Preference divergence therefore carries implications for rulers’ institutional choice, as cooptation is only viable at intermediate levels of popular discontent. I apply the model to the Ottoman Empire’s system of indirect rule and show that it explains several features of regime-elite relations.
Targeted RNA Sequencing of VZV-Infected Brain Vascular Adventitial Fibroblasts Indicates That Amyloid May Be Involved in VZV Vasculopathy

Background and objectives Compared with stroke controls, patients with varicella zoster virus (VZV) vasculopathy have increased amyloid in CSF, along with increased amylin (islet amyloid polypeptide [IAPP]) and anti-VZV antibodies. Thus, we examined the gene expression profiles of VZV-infected primary human brain vascular adventitial fibroblasts (HBVAFs), one of the initial arterial cells infected in VZV vasculopathy, to determine whether they are a potential source of amyloid that can disrupt vasculature and potentiate inflammation. Methods Mock- and VZV-infected quiescent HBVAFs were harvested at 3 days postinfection. Targeted RNA sequencing of the whole-human transcriptome (BioSpyder Technologies, TempO-Seq) was conducted followed by gene set enrichment and pathway analysis. Selected pathways unique to VZV-infected cells were confirmed by enzyme-linked immunoassays, migration assays, and immunofluorescence analysis (IFA) that included antibodies against amylin and amyloid-beta, as well as amyloid staining by Thioflavin-T. Results Compared with mock, VZV-infected HBVAFs had significantly enriched gene expression pathways involved in vascular remodeling and vascular diseases; confirmatory studies showed secretion of matrix metalloproteinase-3 and -10, as well increased migration of infected cells and uninfected cells when exposed to conditioned media from VZV-infected cells. In addition, significantly enriched pathways involved in amyloid-associated diseases (diabetes mellitus, amyloidosis, and Alzheimer disease), tauopathy, and progressive neurologic disorder were identified; predicted upstream regulators included amyloid precursor protein, apolipoprotein E, microtubule-associated protein tau, presenilin 1, and IAPP. Confirmatory IFA showed that VZV-infected HBVAFs contained amyloidogenic peptides (amyloid-beta and amylin) and intracellular amyloid. Discussion Gene expression profiles and pathway enrichment analysis of VZV-infected HBVAFs, as well as phenotypic studies, reveal features of pathologic vascular remodeling (e.g., increased cell migration and changes in the extracellular matrix) that can contribute to cerebrovascular disease. Furthermore, the discovery of amyloid-associated transcriptional pathways and intracellular amyloid deposition in HBVAFs raise the possibility that VZV vasculopathy is an amyloid disease. Amyloid deposition may contribute to cell death and loss of vascular wall integrity, as well as potentiate chronic inflammation in VZV vasculopathy, with disease severity and recurrence determined by the host's ability to clear virus infection and amyloid deposition and by the coexistence of other amyloid-associated diseases (i.e., Alzheimer disease and diabetes mellitus).
Evaluating Article 2 of the Uniform Commercial Code: A Preliminary Empirical Expedition

The object of this codification of the law with respect to negotiable instruments was to relieve the courts of the duty of citation of conflicting cases and discussion of the discordant views entertained by courts and text writers of the greatest ability upon these questions, and to render certain and unambiguous that which had theretofore been doubtful and obscure, so that the business of the commercial world, largely transacted through the agency of negotiable paper, might be conducted in obedience to a written law emanating from a source whose authority admits of no question.'
The passivity of nickel in phosphate solutions: Part II. Effect of solufion pH

Abstract The passivity of nickel has been studied over a wide range of pH (1.5–12.6) in phosphate solutions. The results show that solution pH has a strong effect on the formation and the growth of the passive films. In basic solutions (pH 9.1 and 12.6) and in moderately acidic solution (pH 4.5), the passive film possess the came optical constants but exhibit different growth behaviors. The film formed in the basic solutions does not grow, but the film formed in the pH 4.5 solution increases in thickness with time. In an acidic solution of 1.5 pH, the passive film is composed of two layers: a base layer of partially dehydrated Ni(OH) 2 , and an upper, potential-dependent film. The two-layer film evolves with time.
Enzyme-linked coagulation assay: II. A sensitive assay for tissue factor and factors II, VII, and X

We have developed a solid-phase clotting assay which uses peroxidase-fibrinogen in solution and fibrinogen bound to microtiter plates as a substrate for the thrombin generated from the clotting cascade. We have developed this assay for measurement of the extrinsic pathway factors thromboplastin (tissue factor, factor III), VII and VIIa, X, and II. Using long incubation times (40-90 min), thromboplastin could be measured in extracts of human brain at very low concentrations. Specificity for thromboplastin was demonstrated by showing a requirement for factors II, V, X, and VII but not for VIII, IX, XI, or XII; both substrate plasmas monodeficient in single factors and mixtures of the pure factors were used in demonstrating this specificity. The assay was modified to measure factors II, VII, VIIa, and X using appropriate deficient plasmas. The limit of detection was 2-3 orders of magnitude lower than a one-stage clotting test for all factors assayed. This assay has the advantages of convenience, specificity comparable to standard clotting tests, and high sensitivity.
Kinetic studies on partially liganded species of carboxyhemoglobin: (α1COβ1CO)α2β2 or (α2COβ2CO)α1β1

Abstract Kinetics of CO combination with and dissociation from isomer III, (alpha 1CO beta 1CO)alpha 2 beta 2 or alpha 1 beta 1 (alpha 2CO beta 2CO), and Hb Rothschild have been studied using the double mixing and microperoxidase methods. Isomer III was prepared in a manner so that it was the only reactive species in the reaction mixture. The biphasic reaction time course in both the "on" and "off" reactions of isomer III and the CO combination reaction of Hb Rothschild are attributed to slow relaxation between the fast and slow CO-reacting species in the two proteins: isomer III: l'f = 6 x 10(6) M-1 s-1, l'dimer = 1.7 x 10(6) M-1 s-1, l's = 2.2 x 10(5) M-1 s-1, lf = 0.15 s-1, ls = 0.01 s-1; Hb Rothschild: l'f = 2.8 x 10(6) M-1 s-1; l's = 2.7 x 10(5) M-1 s-1.
Heterogeneous Catalyst Design by Multiple Functional Group Positioning in Organic- Inorganic Materials: On the Route to Analogs of Multifunctional Enzymes

Enzymes catalyze reactions with high rates and selectivities through the sophisticated use of cooperative interactions between neighboring functional groups within an active site. For example, the “catalytic triad” in proteases is capable of accelerating the cleavage of amides by 1011 through neighboring interactions between carboxylic acid, imidazole, and alcohol sites. Guided by these principles, heterogeneous catalysts having two different types of functional groups have been prepared, and the cooperative behavior have been demonstrated with catalytic reactions in the liquid phase. Cooperative interactions between thiols and sulfonic acids and between incompatible acid and base groups are achievable with rates and selectivities that are superior to homogeneous systems, especially for the latter case wherein there is no reactivity.
High-speed formation of persistent gratings in doped semiconductors

Summary form only given. We describe time-resolved measurements of optical grating formation in Te-doped AlGaAs. Local refractive index modulation resulting from spatially selective ionization of defect sites known as "DX" centers produces holographic diffraction gratings with efficiencies above 10% for grating periods as small as 135 nm. These gratings are persistent for a duration that ranges from microseconds to many years depending on the sample temperature--the longer times being available only at cryogenic temperatures thus far.
Arachidonic Acid Inhibits Transient Potassium Currents and Broadens Action Potentials during Electrographic Seizures in Hippocampal Pyramidal and Inhibitory Interneurons

The transient outward potassium current was studied in outside-out macropatches excised from the soma of CA1 pyramidal neurons and stratum (st.) oriens-alveus inhibitory interneurons in rat hippocampal slices. Arachidonic acid dose dependently decreased the charge transfer associated with the transient current, concomitant with an increase in the rate of current inactivation. Arachidonic acid (AA) did not affect the voltage dependence of steady state inactivation but did prolong the period required for complete recovery from inactivation. The effects of AA were mimicked by the nonmetabolizable analog of AA, 5,8,11,14-eicosatetraynoic acid, suggesting that metabolic products of AA were not responsible for the observed blocking action. In addition, AA blocked st. oriens-alveus-lacunosum-moleculare interneuron transient currents but not currents recorded from basket cell interneurons. In current clamp experiments, AA was without effect on the action potential waveform of CA1 pyramidal neurons under control recording conditions. In voltage-clamp experiments, the use of a test pulse paradigm, designed to mimic the action potential voltage trajectory, revealed that the transient current normally associated with a single spike deactivates too rapidly for AA to have an effect. Transient currents activated by longer duration "action potential" waveforms, however, were attenuated by AA. Consistent with this finding was the observation that AA broadened interictal spikes recorded in the elevated [K+]o model of epilepsy. These data suggest that AA liberated from hippocampal neurons may act to block the transient current selectively in both CA1 pyramidal neurons and inhibitory interneurons and to broaden action potentials selectively under pathological conditions.
Cargo Receptor Traffics Many Matrix Proteins Out of the Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) by Binding to N-Terminal IleProVal (IPV)-Like Motif

Introduction: Matrix proteins assemble large complexes in the extracellular environment and may be at risk of forming undesired aggregates during intracellular trafficking. Patients with nonsyndrom...
Computer based harmonic simulation and testing for directional-overcurrent relays

Abstract This paper discusses a unique simulation method to study harmonics using a computer based three-phase harmonic source, programmable three-phase voltage and current amplifiers, a digital-to-analog interface board, and a computer program. This paper can be useful for educational purposes and in research facilities to teach and perform research on harmonic related problems. This simulation method has been used in the Center for Energy Studies at Wichita State University for the past three years in many research projects. One application of this method was to test the performance of electromechanical and microprocessor protective relays. By using this simulation method, extensive experiments have been performed in which the relays were subjected to a matrix of distortion frequencies, magnitudes, and phases. The results of testing one relay are discussed, and suggestions for the application of the relay are given.
Gas-Liquid Reactions in Chromatographic Columns

Abstract An analysis is presented for the absorption and reaction of a pulse of reactant gas introduced into a column containing a stationary liquid phase. This type of process is of interest for separation of gases such as H 2 S and CO 2 using a liquid amine. For first-order reactions in the liquid, measured moments of the effluent curve can be used to evaluate rate and equilibrium parameters for the system. The theory for the moments is based upon a model which accounts for the rates of axial dispersion in the gas, of gas-to-liquid mass transfer, and of diffusion and reaction in the liquid layer. The equilibrium parameters are the Henry's law constant for the solubility of the reactant and the reaction equilibrium constant.
Big Firms, Long Arms, Wide Shoulders: The ‘Hub-and-Spoke’ Industrial District in the Seattle Region

GRAY M., GOLOB E. and MARKUSEN A. (1996) Big firms, long arms, wide shoulders: the ‘hub-and-spoke’ industrial district in the Seattle region, Reg. Studies 30, 651–666. Rapidly growing regions exhibit distinct varieties of industrial district structure. One variant is the hub-and-spoke form, where an industry and its suppliers cluster around one or several core firms. The hub-and-spoke district is distinct from the flexibly specialized district, its successs a function of dominant firm market power and strategy rather than networking. Hub-and-spoke districts are capable of generating high regional growth rates and good income distributions, but may render a region vulnerable to cyclical and secular decline and/or to the crowding out of noncompeting, newer sectors. The paper analyses the Seattle region as a hub-and-spoke district. GRAY M., GOLOB E. et MARKUSEN A. (1996) Les grandes enterprises tentaculaires: la zone industrielle du type ‘moyeu et rayon’: cas d'etude de la region de Seattle, Reg. Studies 30,...
Heterodyne detected transient grating spectroscopy in resonant and non-resonant systems using a simplified diffractive optics method

Abstract We report a simplified optical heterodyne detected transient grating setup consisting of a single diffractive optical element based on modifications of the arrangement used by Miller and co-workers [J. Phys. Chem. A, 103 (1999) 10619]. Our arrangement features ease of alignment, suppression of scattering and is free of pump–probe contamination in the detected transient grating signals. The capability of our arrangement is demonstrated by measurements on a non-resonant system, CS 2 , and a resonant system, malachite green in ethanol.
Clinical Use of Diazoxide and Mechanism for Its Hyperglycemic Effects

The mechanism of diazoxide hyperglycemia in man has been studied by measurement of serum glucose, immunoreactive insulin, and plasma free fatty acids. In a patient with islet cell carcinoma, in normal subjects, and in diabetic patients, diazoxide hyperglycemia was accompanied by a decrease in serum immunoreactive insulin, an increase in plasma free fatty acids, tachycardia, and a widened pulse pressure. The similarity of these effects to those produced by epinephrine has suggested that at least some of the effects of diazoxide may be mediated by endogenous sympathetic stimulation. Diazoxide has been used successfully to control hypoglycemia in a patient with islet cell carcinoma for twenty months.
Asthma and Obesity: The Dose Effect

Asthma is one of the most common chronic illnesses in the world, affecting an estimated 300 million people. Globally, the prevalence of asthma has continued to spread as economic improvements in developing countries create a population trend toward urbanization and adoption of a western lifestyle. Research supports an association between obesity and asthma. Only by making weight management a priority in the treatment of asthma can the rising prevalence of both diseases be hindered and global health improved.
Strain estimation of carotid artery using virtual element based synthetic aperture imaging

Synthetic aperture (SA) ultrasound imaging provides accurate axial and lateral displacement estimates, however, the low transmit acoustic power of SA limits its clinical use. In this paper, we investigated the feasibility of using multi-element sub-aperture to improve acoustic power of SA imaging for carotid artery elastography. We used Field II to synthesize RF images with varying size sub-apertures, at different opening angles. Axial and lateral displacements were estimated by applying the 2D cross-correlation tracking algorithm to the synthesized RF images. Performance was assessed by computing root mean square error (RMSE) between the theoretical and estimated elastograms. A noticeable increase in power was observed for a configuration involving 3 -11 elements in the sub-aperture and an opening angle between 60°– 120°, respectively. More specifically, RMSE of axial and lateral displacements was less than 0.4% and 2%, respectively, and whereas in the case of radial and circumferential strain was less than 2% and 7%, respectively. These findings were encouraging enough to warrant further studies.
Medical image registration using stochastic optimization

Abstract We propose an image registration method by maximizing a Tsallis entropy-based divergence using a modified simultaneous perturbation stochastic approximation algorithm. Due to its convexity property, this divergence measure attains its maximum value when the conditional intensity probabilities between the reference image and the transformed target image are degenerate distributions. Experimental results are provided to demonstrate the registration accuracy of the proposed approach in comparison to existing entropic image alignment techniques.
Directional coronary atherectomy can be successfully performed in the elderly

The influence of age on the clinical and angiographic outcome of directional coronary atherectomy is evaluated. Results demonstrate that DCA can be performed successfully in the vast majority (78.7-90%) of patients in all age groups. However, there is a non-statistical trend toward decreased success rates in the elderly (P > .05). Major ischemic complications and groin complications tend to be more common in the elderly (P > .05). Blood transfusions are required significantly more often in the elderly (P < .05). Directional coronary atherectomy is a useful method of coronary artery revascularization in all age groups, including the elderly.
Bizarreness in dreams and fantasies: Implications for the activation-synthesis hypothesis

Abstract Dreaming is a statistically robust cognitive correlate of REM sleep, but all of its formal features may occur in other states of sleep and even in waking, especially during fantasy. In order to test the hypothesis that the brain basis of such cognitive features as dream bizarreness is to be found in REM sleep neurophysiology, it is critical to quantify bizarreness in dreams and other mental states and to analyze the data with respect to both the magnitude and the kind of bizarreness so measured. Any differences in the cognitive dimensions are candidate correlates of REM sleep neurophysiology. Sixty pairs of home-based dream and fantasy reports were collected from 12 subjects and scored for bizarreness using a two-stage scoring system adapted from Hobson, Hoffman, Helfand, and Kostner (1987) . Our results show that bizarreness was twice as prevalent in dream reports as in wake-state fantasy reports of the same subjects. Further analysis of the reports also showed differences in other features including the number of persona and remoteness of time and place.
Beam induced reduction of U(VI) during X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy: The utility of the U4f satellite structure for identifying uranium oxidation states in mixed valence uranium oxides

Abstract Reduction of UVI by the beam during X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) is a commonly observed phenomenon. This can affect the determination of the U oxidation state, or states, in U oxides (or U compounds in general) and compromise the validity of peak parameters derived from UVI oxide standards. However, there is little quantitative information on the reduction kinetics and species produced. The objective of this contribution is to investigate and quantify the effects of X-ray beam reduction of UVI during XPS analysis. Successive U4f XPS spectra were taken over a 26 h period during the X-ray induced reduction of UVI oxy-hydroxide that was precipitated onto the basal plane of mica. In addition, valence band XPS spectra, including the U5f region, were recorded. Factor analysis identified three dominant and, by definition, linearly independent components. Consequently, we fit the U4f level, including the satellite structure, with three components that represented UVI, UV, and UIV. Peak parameters were remarkably stable and consistent with UVI, UV, and UIV over the entire reduction sequence despite the likely formation of a partially covalent mixed-valence U oxide. Although the satellite features for UIV and UV were modified by their bonding environment, they still served well as diagnostic tools for identifying U oxidation states. In particular, the 8 eV satellite appears to be a robust indicator of UV over a range of bonding environments. This is important because the presence of UV might not be necessarily obvious in the primary peak envelope if XPS energy resolution is low and/or UIV–UV binding energy separations are appreciably less than 1 eV. We also discuss insights obtained from modeling the kinetic data for the time evolution of UVI, UV, and UIV.
Surgical Salvage for the Non-Functioning Sinus

The non-functioning or dysfunctional sinus is completely isolated from the remainder of the nasal cavity with no hope of normal ventilation despite the most aggressive medical therapy. Most often these sinuses are the result of mucosal stripping/removal during prior radical surgeries. The reason for these radical operations include treatment of neoplasm, but most often is for revision of inflammatory disease when prior procedures have not been successful at restoring ventilation and maintaining patent ostia. When faced with a dysfunctional sinus, rhinologists typically have two choices: repeat the radical obliterative procedure or attempt to restore function and ventilation by reestablishing a drainage pathway into the nasal cavity. This latter option seems to represent the best long-term chance for surgical success in these difficult cases, with repeat ablative procedures as a last resort.
Identification, regulation and function of a novel lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor

Oxidatively modified low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) leads to endothelial activation, dysfunction and injury. Recently, a novel lectin-like receptor for ox-LDL (LOX-1) has been identified, primarily in the endothelial cells, and it allows uptake of ox-LDL into endothelial cells. This receptor is transcriptionally upregulated by tumor necrosis factor-alpha, angiotensin II, shear stress and ox-LDL itself. The expression of this receptor activates a variety of intracellular processes that lead to expression of adhesion molecules and endothelial activation. This receptor is highly expressed in the blood vessels of animals and humans with hypertension, diabetes mellitus and atherosclerosis. Expression of this receptor may also be relevant in intra-arterial thrombogenesis and myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury. Identification and regulation of this receptor and understanding of signal transduction pathways may lead to new therapies of diseases characterized by endothelial dysfunction.
Constancy of proline hydroxylation in collagen synthesized at different temperatures by poikilotherms.

Abstract Previous experiments have suggested that the body temperature of an organism may in part regulate the hydroxyproline content of its collagen. In order to test this hypothesis, the hydroxyproline content of the collagen synthesized at different temperatures by fish cells in culture and by intact amphibian larvae was measured. High levels of prolyl hydroxylation were found at both low and high temperatures, which eliminates the possibility that temperature can directly modulate prolyl hydroxylation in vivo . Synthesis and hydroxylation of collagen appear to be coordinated so that unstable underhydroxylated molecules are not produced under normal circumstances.
Willingness of Mexican-American adults to share family health history with healthcare providers

Background Collecting family health history (FHH) information to share with healthcare providers is an important aspect of health-risk assessment. Purpose To examine associations between the content of FHH-informed risk feedback and willingness to share the information with a healthcare provider. Methods Data were collected between June 2008 and July 2009 from 475 Mexican-origin adults residing in 161 households. Participants completed surveys 3 months after receiving FHH-informed risk feedback. Households were randomly assigned to feedback conditions in which household members received one or more of the following: an FHH pedigree, personalized risk assessments (PRAs), and tailored behavioral recommendations. Logistic regression models were fitted using generalized estimating equations, with exchangeable covariances, to account for the clustering of responses within and the random assignment of feedback condition to household. Analyses were completed in May 2010. Results Participants who received personalized risk assessments were more willing to share their feedback with a provider than those who received a pedigree only (OR=2.25, p =0.02). The receipt of tailored behavioral recommendations did not significantly increase willingness to share feedback with a provider (OR=0.79, p =0.48). Conclusions The provision of PRAs in FHH assessments appears to motivate participants to consider sharing their FHH with a healthcare provider.
Comprehensive dynamic modeling and motion/force control of flexible manipulators

Abstract This paper presents a comprehensive dynamic modeling of a flexible link manipulator by using Hamilton's principle. The model is formulated by considering the flexible arm as a Timoshenko beam model. Hence, the shear, bending as well as rotational inertia effect of the manipulator are all taken into account in the dynamic formulation. In order to obtain a comprehensive dynamic model, the gravitational effect, which is missing in most of the flexible manipulator dynamic models, is also included in the formulation. Then, an efficient motion and force controller design method utilizing root contour analysis is proposed. With the proposed method the multi controller gains of the position/force controller for the flexible manipulator can be chosen analytically, as opposed to the method of trial and error used conventionally for selecting manipulator controller gains. The tuning process of these controllers' gains proves the simplicity of gains selection. And the motion/force simulation results verify the effectiveness of the controllers. The simulation results also show that the derived control scheme, which is based on a linear control system analysis, can drive the highly non-linear flexible arm to achieve the desired position and force satisfactorily.
Using Inactivity to Detect Unusual behavior

We present a novel method for detecting unusual modes of behavior in video surveillance data, suitable for supporting home-based care of elderly patients. Our approach is based on detecting unusual patterns of inactivity. We first learn a spatial map of normal inactivity for an observed scene, expressed as a two-dimensional mixture of Gaussians. The map components are used to construct a Hidden Markov Model representing normal patterns of behavior. A threshold model is also inferred, and unusual behavior detected by comparing the model likelihoods. Our learning procedures are unsupervised, and yield a highly transparent model of scene activity. We present an evaluation of our approach, and show that it is effective in detecting unusual behavior across a range of parameter settings.
The bizarre imagery effect and intention to learn.

The bizarre imagery effect, better memory for bizarre stimuli than for common stimuli, is now an established finding. However, the mnemonic benefits of bizarre imagery are subject to several constraints (e.g., the use of mixed lists and free-recall tests). A further constraint on the bizarreness effect is demonstrated here. In each of two experiments, subjects were given either incidental or intentional study instructions and were asked to rate the vividness of the images they formed from the bizarre and common sentences. Contrary to conclusions based on available evidence, the bizarreness effect in free recall was manifested only with the incidental learning instructions. This additional constraint on the effect is consistent with the item-order account of bizarreness.
Contextual Appraisal A Framework for Meaningful Evaluation of Special Education Programs

Evaluation of special education programs in the public schools is often based primarily on practices implemented to satisfy accountability and compliance requirements of state and federal agencies. Compliance monitoring, however, does not yield all of the information needed to improve special education programs at the local level. A different conceptual framework, developed in the general education school reform movement---contextual appraisal---seems especially appropriate for special education evaluation because it emphasizes formative descriptions of programs. Contextual appraisal incorporates an ecological view of schools, recognizing the interrelationships among students, teachers, activities, and resources. It also requires the involvement of persons who are responsible for implementing changes based on evaluation in the design and implementation of the evaluative process. At least five issues need to be considered in the application of contextual appraisal practices to special education programs: (...
A Partial Characterization of Hepatitis B e Antigen

Partially purified hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAG) was prepared by ultracentrifugation, ammonium sulfate precipitation, and molecular sieve chromatography of sera obtained from asymptomatic carriers of hepatitis B surface antigen. The antigenic specificity of the HBeAG preparations was investigated further with affinity chromatography. The results indicated that HBeAG is distinct and separable from DNA polymerase activity. Columns coupled with either goat IgG prepared from antiserum to human IgG or antibody to HBeAg bound all detectable HBeAg and bound 31% and 100% of the IgG, respectively, from a partially purified HBeAg preparation. Rate zonal sucrose sedimentation and molecular sieve and ion-exchange chromatography indicated a variability in molecular weight and charge; this finding suggested a heterogenous population of immunoreactivities containing HBeAg. Our preliminary results suggest the existence of an HBeAg-IgG complex.
Treatment of Combined Complete Tears of the Anterior Cruciate and Medial Collateral Ligaments

Purpose To develop an evidence-based algorithm for the treatment of combined complete tears of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and medial collateral ligament (MCL). Methods We performed a systematic review using computerized keyword searches of Medline, Embase, CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature), ACP Journal Club, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Two reviewers independently performed searches and article reduction. Studies that reported stratified outcomes data after the treatment of combined complete tears of the ACL and MCL were included. Data on clinical measures of laxity, range of motion, and strength, as well as subjective outcome measures, were summarized. Results Five different treatment approaches were reported. Outcomes were better if the ACL was reconstructed and reconstruction was delayed to allow a return of knee range of motion. In many cases, this delay may allow the MCL to heal. MCL repair or reconstruction may be required if valgus instability remains after an appropriate rehabilitation period. Conclusions ACL reconstruction should be performed in a subacute time frame once full motion has returned. Valgus instability should be assessed at that time and MCL repair or reconstruction performed in those patients with persistent valgus instability. Level of Evidence Level IV, systematic review of Level I to IV studies.
Selective intramammary antibiotic therapy during the nonlactating period in goats

Abstract Forty-nine does were used to study the effectiveness of selective drying-off intramammary antibiotic therapy. All udder halves with intramammary infections by pathogens: coagulase negative staphylococci, Corynebacterium bovis, Streptococcus uberis or Pseudomonas sp., received a commercial dry-off treatment of cepharin benzathine labeled for the bovine. Noninfected halves were randomly treated. Dry period cures and new infections were determined by presence or absence of microbial cultures in milk samples aseptically collected at dry-off and at parturition. Antibiotic residues of penicillin activity in milk at parturition were determined by the Bacillus stearothermophilus var calidolactis disk assay. At dry-off, 43 of 97 (44.3%) udder halves had intramammary infections, 40 were coagulase negative staphylococcal infections, two were C. bovis and the other S. uberis . At parturition, 30 of 38 (78.9%) treated halves with intramammary infections at dry-off were cured, the eight not cured were coagulase negative staphylococcal infections. Five udder halves that were misclassified as noninfected at dry-off, but were coagulase negative staphylococcal infections and were not treated, were free of intramammary infections at parturition. New intramammary infections by coagulase negative staphylococci ( n =2) and Pseudomonas sp. ( n =1) affected less than 7% of the udder halves. Since the rate of new intramammary infections in all udder halves from both those receiving dry-off therapy and those not treated, was low, selective dry-off therapy could be considered. However, antibiotic residue was detected in milk from only one doe and the activity in milk from this doe was less than 0.016 IU penicillin/ml. Data also suggest intramammary cepharin benzathine therapy results in effective elimination of intramammary infections predominantly caused by coagulase-negative staphylococci at dry-off. Thus, no significant adverse effects of dry-off therapy as measured by new infections or presence of milk residues at parturition were found.