cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Probabilistic constitutive law for damage in ligaments

A new constitutive equation is presented to describe the damage evolution process in parallel-fibered collagenous tissues such as ligaments. The model is formulated by accounting for the fibrous structure of the tissues. The tissue's stress is defined as the average of the collagen fiber's stresses. The fibers are assumed to be undulated and straightened out at different stretches that are randomly defined according to a Weibull distribution. After becoming straight, each collagen fiber is assumed to be linear elastic. Damage is defined as a reduction in collagen fiber's stiffness and occurs at different stretches that are also randomly defined by a Weibull distribution. Due to the lack of experimental data, the predictions of the constitutive equation are analyzed by varying the values of its structural parameters. Moreover, the results are compared with the available stress-strain data in the biomechanics literature that evaluate damage produced by subfailure stretches in rat medial collateral ligaments.
Frequency-dependent synaptic depression modifies postsynaptic firing probability in cats.

Extensive effort has been devoted to studying the modulation of synaptic strength in the mammalian CNS. Many studies have focussed on the influence of presynaptic firing rate, and both enhancement and depression of the amplitude of postsynaptic potentials (PSPs) have been found when the presynaptic rate was increased (Magleby, 1987; Zucker, 1989). These and other forms of synaptic modulation are considered to be important mechanisms governing the operation of neural circuits (Churchland & Sejnowski, 1992). Surprisingly, the effect of modulation of synaptic potentials on the spike train output of postsynaptic neurons has not been tested directly. Various authors (Fetz & Gustafsson, 1983; Gustafsson & McCrea, 1984; Cope et al. 1987) provide indirect evidence using pooled data from synapses made with motoneurones: they report positive correlations between the primary peak of the cross-correlogram (computed from I a afferent and motoneurone spike trains) and the amplitude of the corresponding excitatory postsynaptic potential (EPSP). From those relationships (e.g. Fig. 7 of Cope et al. 1987) it could be inferred that modulation of a single EPSP should yield a proportional modulation of the correlogram. However, the observed relationships showed substantial scatter, due to uncontrolled sources of variation such as synaptic noise (e.g. Gustafsson & McCrea, 1984; Polyakov, 1991), so confidence in this inference must be limited. Given the importance of synaptic potentials in determining postsynaptic firing behaviour it seemed critical to us to test whether modulation of PSPs at single synapses is sufficient to influence spike train output. We chose to examine this problem using the synaptic connection between muscle spindle primary afferents and spinal motoneurones (the I a- motoneurone synapse), in part because of its experimental tractability and in part because of the well documented frequency dependence of the EPSPs generated there (e.g. Curtis & Eccles, 1960; Honig et al. 1983). Our principal finding was that statistical measures of interaction between firing cells do change with presynaptic firing rate, consistent with predictions based on EPSP modulation. In the instances where they could be resolved, EPSPs measured on the ramps of depolarization in firing motoneurones showed the same rate dependence as the corresponding spike train measures. These data suggest that modulation of small individual PSPs at other synapses might reasonably be expected to influence postsynaptic spike trains. Portions of this work have appeared previously in abstract form (Clark & Cope, 1995).
Dynamics of propagating phase boundaries: Thermoelastic solids with heat conduction

This paper is concerned with the incorporation of thermal effects into the continuum modeling of dynamic solid-solid phase transitions. The medium is modeled as a one-dimensional thermoelastic solid characterized by a specific Helmholtz free-energy potential and a specific kinetic relation. Heat conduction and inertia are taken into account. An initial-value problem that gives rise to both shock waves and a propagating phase boundary is analyzed on the basis of this model.
Experience Producing Drive Theory: how genes drive experience and shape personality

There is now a large body of evidence from twin and adoption studies linking genetic variation to phenotypic variation on virtually all human individual differences. Individuals unquestionably influence the nature of their experiences, e.g. high-sensation seekers surround themselves with like-minded peers and seek out quite different experiences than low-sensation seekers. We propose a theory called Experience Producing Drive Theory-Revised, to account for the current findings in behavior genetics. This theory is based on the Darwinian view that complex organisms are active agents "designed" by natural selection to survive in the environments in which they evolved. The theory assumes that the behavior of complex organisms can best be understood in terms of motives, preferences and emotional responses that have evolved to drive specific behavioral patterns. We propose a number of ways in which this theory might be falsified.
The classification of discrete 2-generator subgroups of PSL(2,R)

This paper gives a short geometric algorithm for deciding the discreteness of most 2-generator subgroups of PSL(2,R), as well as a self-contained algorithmic approach to the complete classification.
Is Democracy the Answer to End Terrorism

Islamist Terrorism and Democracy in the Middle East. By Katerina Dalacoura . Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2011. 224 pp., $85.00 hardcover (ISBN-13: 978-0-521-86518-0). To many scholars and practitioners, there is a strong link between the lack of democracy and terrorism (e.g., Carothers and Ottoway 2005). In the wake of the attacks of September 11, 2001, the George W. Bush administration significantly increased American assistance to the Middle East to promote democracy with the conviction that it was the lack of democracy that led to terrorism. Katerina Dalacoura, a senior lecturer at the London School of Economics and Political Science, questions this link in her book, Islamist Terrorism and Democracy in the Middle East . Dalacoura argues that “there is no necessary causal link between authoritarianism in the Middle East and Islamist terrorism” (p. 11). Throughout the book, she persuasively refutes the connection between the lack of democracy and terrorism. In addition, she also debunks the role of ideational factors; she shows that Islam is not a relevant variable to explain terrorism. Instead, she suggests focusing on the circumstances that lead some Muslims to radically interpret religion. Dalacoura develops her argument in two steps. First, through chapters 2-4, she examines cases of terrorism to investigate the connection between the lack of democracy and terrorism. In chapter 2, she focuses on transnational terrorism …
An Inquiry-Based Field & Laboratory Investigation of Leaf Decay: A Critical Aquatic Ecosystem Function

Effective investigations incorporate all four features of constructivist teaching. This high school or college-level field investigation guides teachers (and students) through the stages of inquiry. The focal concept is ecosystem function, specifically leaf decay rates in aquatic environments. Teachers elicit their students' prior knowledge and use it to generate discussion on variables that influence decay rates. Students engage in designing and conducting experiments. The learning cycle is continued when students apply their new knowledge and receive feedback, and completed when students return to their initial conceptions of leaf decay and reflect on the knowledge they gained through scientific experimentation.
A programmable power processor for high power space applications

A Programmable Power Processor (P3) has been developed by NASA/Marshall Space Flight Center for application in future large space power systems. The P3 is capable of operation over a wide range of input voltage (26 to 375 Vdc) and output voltage (24 to 180 Vdc). The peak output power capability is 18 kW (180 V at 100 A). The output characteristics of the P3 can be programmed to any voltage and/or current level within the limits of the processor and may be controlled as a function of internal or external parameters. Seven breadboard P3s and one "flight-type" engineering model P3 have been built and tested both individually and in electrical power systems. The programmable feature allows the P^ to be used in a variety of applications by changing the output characteristics. The tests have been performed for four potential applications, a high voltage battery peak power tracking charger, a 120-V bus regulator, a 30-V bus regulator, and a peak power tracking impedance matching regulator. Test results, including efficiency at various input/output combinations, transient response, and output impedance, are presented. Packaging considerations for the 18 kW are also discussed.
Race and the Tourist Bubble in Downtown Atlanta

Early in the twentieth century, Atlanta’s business and political leaders worked in partnership to develop the components of a tourist bubble. Using the urban renewal program, the city’s leaders enl...
Frequency and significance of acute heart failure following liver transplantation.

Reversible cardiomyopathy has been reported in patients after liver transplantation. However, there are few data on the incidence, risk factors, and prognosis of this condition. Liver transplantation recipients who underwent preoperative right- and left-sided cardiac catheterization as well as preoperative transthoracic echocardiography from 2001 to 2005 were identified. Eighty-six patients met the outlined criteria and were included in the study. The incidence of severe heart failure (HF) after transplantation in this population was 6 of 86 (approximately 7%). Patients who developed HF were slightly older (mean age 61.2 ± 8.9 vs 55.4 ± 9.2 years, p = 0.08) but had similar preoperative ejection fractions (60 ± 5% vs 57 ± 8%, p = 0.22) and comparable systemic arterial blood pressure (116 ± 22/62 ± 11 vs 127 ± 9/66 ± 9, p >0.1). In addition, the severity of liver disease as measured by the model for end-stage liver disease score was not different between the 2 groups (23.9 ± 9.7 vs 26 ± 10.7, p = 0.5). There was also no significant difference in the preoperative cardiac index (3.8 ± 1 vs 3.6 ± 1.5 L/min/m 2 , p = 0.9) or pulmonary artery wedge pressure (13.6 ± 5.8 vs 15.3 ± 2.8 mm Hg, p = 0.42). The incidence of alcohol use as the presumed cause of liver failure was equivalent in the 2 groups (33% vs 25%, p = 0.65). The patients who developed HF did have significantly higher preoperative mean pulmonary arterial systolic pressures (43 ± 10 vs 30 ± 9 mm Hg, p = 0.02) and right ventricular systolic pressures (44 ± 13 vs 34 ± 8 mm Hg, p = 0.05). In conclusion, severe systolic HF may occur after liver transplantation in patients without traditional risk factors for HF. This study suggests that those patients with preoperative elevated right-sided cardiac pressures, as well as older patients, may be at excess risk for developing HF after transplantation.
The Use of Ozone to Kill Fungi in Wood

Systems for the controlled generation, circulation and destruction of residual ozone have been commercialized and these systems could be used to eliminate pests from solid wood packaging materials such as pallets. A preliminary test with small cubes showed that ozone fumigation could kill decay fungi in wood. Subsequent trials with larger wood samples were less ineffective, suggesting that the inability of ozone to penetrate deeply into wood will limit its potential for pest mitigation.
Mid-Infrared Study of Stones from the Sutter¿s Mill Meteorite

The Sutter's Mill meteorite fell in northern California on April 22, 2012, and numerous pieces have been recovered and studied with several analytical techniques [1]. We present a Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy analysis of fragments from several stones of the meteorite. Methods and analysis: Infrared spectra of samples SM2 and SM12 were recorded with a Nicolet iN10 MX FTIR microscope in the mid-IR range (4000-650/cm; spectral resolution 4/cm), while samples SM20 and SM30 were analyzed with a synchrotron-based Nicolet Continuum IR microscope in the same range. Samples were deposited on a clean glass slide, crushed with either a stainless steel roller tool or between 2 slides, and placed directly on the focal plane of the microscopes. Results: IR spectra of non-fusion crust samples show several absorption features associated with minerals such as olivines, phyllosilicates, carbonates (calcite and dolomite), and pyroxenes, as well as organics [2]. The carbonates display a main, broad band centered at 1433/cm, with additional bands at 2515/cm, 1797/cm, 882/cm, and 715/cm. Features associated with phyllosilicates include a symmetric Si-O stretching mode band centered at 1011/cm and several O-H stretching mode bands―a broad band centered at 3415/cm that is probably due to adsorbed H2O, and occasionally a much weaker, narrower feature centered near 3680/cm due to structural O-H. Features observed in the 2985-2855/cm range suggest the presence of aliphatic -CH3 and -CH2- groups. However, some of these bands show unusual relative intensities, mainly because of carbonate overtone bands that fall in the same spectral range, which can make the identification of C-H stretching bands problematic. The positions and relative strengths of the aliphatic -CH2- and -CH3 features, where they can be distinguished from overlapping carbonate bands, are consistent with those in interplanetary dust particles (IDPs) and Murchison. Finally, the absence of a strong C=O absorption feature near 1700/cm distinguishes the organics in the Sutter's Mill meteorite from that in most IDPs and in Murchison, but is consistent with the organic matter in Tagish Lake.
The stability and intertest consonance of lateral postural—motor biases in rats: results and implications

Each of six different tests of lateral postural—motor asymmetries was repeatedly administered to 126 rats. Directional reliability was found for rotatory swimming, open-field exploration, and stepping down from a beam. Neonatal posture, turn in an unbaited T maze, and orientation to tail pinch proved not to be reliable across days. The behavioral asymmetries in the open-field and step-down tests were directionally consonant with each other, but neither was related to the asymmetry exhibited in rotatory swimming, implying the existence of at least two independent asymmetrical neural substrates underlying the behaviors. Neither sample-wide directional biases nor major sex differences in bias were found. The sexes were, however, differentially influenced in direction on some tests by the number of males in their natal litters, implying a role for intrauterine exposure to androgens in predisposing rats toward some left- or right-biased behaviors.
Uniqueness of Piecewise Smooth Weak Solutions of Multidimensional Degenerate Parabolic Equations

We study the degenerate parabolic equationut + ∇ · f = ∇ · (Q∇u) + g, where (x, t) ∈ RN × R+, the fluxf, the viscosity coefficientQ, and the source termgdepend on (x, t, u) andQis nonnegative definite. Due to the possible degeneracy, weak solutions are considered. In general, these solutions are not uniquely determined by the initial data and, therefore, additional conditions must be imposed in order to guarantee uniqueness. We consider here the subclass of piecewise smooth weak solutions, i.e., continuous solutions which areC2-smooth everywhere apart from a closed nowhere dense collection of smooth manifolds. We show that the solution operator isL1-stable in this subclass and, consequently, that piecewise smooth weak solutions are uniquely determined by the initial data.
Performance and human factors: considerations about cognition and attention for self-paced and externally-paced events

The cognitive psychology school of thought has spawned models of sequential stages or phases of information processing associated with various tasks. It has encouraged the study of cognitions and attention as related to learning, performance and high levels of achievement in goal-directed complex activities in which movement is the medium of expression. Although more recently proposed dynamical systems models challenge the simplicity of this approach, there is little doubt that the ability to learn as well as to excel in performing movement skills depends to a great degree on the effective self-regulation of cognitive processes in a variety of situations. What to think about (or not think about) prior to, during and even after an event can have great consequences on present and subsequent performance. Relevant externally-provided and self-generated strategies should enable these processes to function at an optimal level, and are the subject of an increasing amount of research. For such purposes, it is convenient to categorize events as self-paced (closed) and externally-paced (open). Examples of both types of events exist in sport as well as in various occupations and recreational activities, with different information processing demands associated with each one. Any breakdown in a particular stage of processing will potentially lead to poorer performance. Special training techniques and strategies are evolving from the cognitive and psychophysiological research literature that might improve the level of functioning at each stage for either self-paced or externally-paced skills.
Graph Theory and the Passivity of Iron‐Chromium Binary Alloys

Using graph theory, it is shown that the introduction of 70 atom % of into a ‐Cr‐O‐Cr‐ oxide network serves to disjoin the network, or conversely, introduction of 30% atomic concentration of serves to provide a connected ‐Cr‐O‐Cr‐ network. The results of surface analysis show that this concentration of 30 atom % in the oxide film corresponds to 13 atom % chromium in the Fe‐Cr alloy, i.e., the critical concentration of Cr required for passivity in Fe‐Cr binary alloys. © 2000 The Electrochemical Society
Single Chip LPC Speech Synthesizer and Companion 131K Bit Rom

A recently : developed two integrated circuit speech synthesis system represents a significant advance in large scale integration in both random logic and data storage functions.
A statistical analysis of the effects of CT acquisition parameters on low-level features extracted from CT images of the lung

We propose a solution for automatic classification of lung nodules in an environment with heterogeneous Computed Tomography (CT) acquisition parameters. Such a classification system needs to take into account the differences in CT acquisition parameters used when obtaining and processing each medical image. Using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), our current research proposes to better understand the effects of CT acquisition parameters on predicting various semantic characteristics (such as spiculation, subtlety, and margin) used in the diagnosis interpretation process. All of the parameters were found to affect the low-level image features used in the classification models of these semantic characteristics. When this knowledge is used to normalize those parameters, the final semantic model will become unaffected by the CT acquisition parameters.
Monitoring Insecticide Resistance in Biotype B of Bemisia tabaci (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) in Florida

Abstract Biotype B of the sweetpotato whitefly (SPWF), Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) (also known as the silverleaf whitefly, B. argentifolii Bellows & Perring), is the key pest of tomatoes in south Florida, primarily as a vector of the begomovirus Tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV). Insecticides are most often used to manage the SPWF and TYLCV. A resistance monitoring program that was initiated in Florida in 2000 was continued from 2008 to 2010 and included 4 neonicotinoid insecticides (imidacloprid, thiamethoxam, dinotefuran, and acetamiprid), the insect growth regulator buprofezin, the pyrethroid bifenthrin, and the organochlorine endosulfan. Ten field populations in 2008 and 9 each in 2009 and 2010 were established with nymphal infested foliage and were tested for susceptibility using a systemic uptake, cut-leaf petiole bioassay with adults for the neonicotinoids; a leaf-dip bioassay with 2nd instars for buprofezin; and a vial bioassay with adults for bifenthrin and endosulfan. Each field population wa...
Genome Sequence of an Obligate Intracellular Pathogen of Humans: Chlamydia trachomatis

Analysis of the 1,042,519-base pair Chlamydia trachomatis genome revealed unexpected features related to the complex biology of chlamydiae. Although chlamydiae lack many biosynthetic capabilities, they retain functions for performing key steps and interconversions of metabolites obtained from their mammalian host cells. Numerous potential virulence-associated proteins also were characterized. Several eukaryotic chromatin-associated domain proteins were identified, suggesting a eukaryotic-like mechanism for chlamydial nucleoid condensation and decondensation. The phylogenetic mosaic of chlamydial genes, including a large number of genes with phylogenetic origins from eukaryotes, implies a complex evolution for adaptation to obligate intracellular parasitism.
Phonological Effects Shown by Normal Adult Speakers Learning New Words: Implications for Phonological Development.

Phonological processes have been used to describe children’s speech for a number of years, but the causes of most processes remain unexplained. In a study investigating possible sources of processes in children’s speech, Aitchison and Chiat (1981) suggested that many developmental phonological processes may be a result of problems in lexical storage and retrieval. One limitation of their study, however, was that they had no adult control group, whose results might have helped clarify their findings. The present research with adults was similar to Aitchison and Chiat’s investigation with children and was intended to provide additional information about whether children’s typical phonological processes generally involve lexical storage and recall difficulties. Caution is advised in assuming that children’s spontaneous phonological processes are generally a result of lexical storage and recall factors.
Enabling hyperpolarized (129) Xe MR spectroscopy and imaging of pulmonary gas transfer to the red blood cells in transgenic mice expressing human hemoglobin.

Purpose Hyperpolarized (HP) 129Xe gas in the alveoli can be detected separately from 129Xe dissolved in pulmonary barrier tissues (blood plasma and parenchyma) and red blood cells (RBCs) of humans, allowing this isotope to probe impaired gas uptake. Unfortunately, mice, which are favored as lung disease models, do not display a unique RBC resonance, thus limiting the preclinical utility of 129Xe MR. Here we overcome this limitation using a commercially available strain of transgenic mice that exclusively expresses human hemoglobin. Methods Dynamic HP 129Xe MR spectroscopy, and three-dimensional radial MRI of gaseous and dissolved 129Xe were performed in both wild-type (C57BL/6) and transgenic mice. Results Unlike wild-type animals, transgenic mice displayed two dissolved 129Xe NMR peaks at 198 and 217 ppm, corresponding to 129Xe dissolved in barrier tissues and RBCs, respectively. Moreover, signal from these resonances could be imaged separately, using a 1-point variant of the Dixon technique. Conclusion It is now possible to examine the dynamics and spatial distribution of pulmonary gas uptake by the RBCs of mice using HP 129Xe MR spectroscopy and imaging. When combined with ventilation imaging, this ability will enable translational “mouse-to-human” studies of impaired gas exchange in a variety of pulmonary diseases. Magn Reson Med 70:1192–1199, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Forecasting Skewed Biased Stochastic Ozone Days: Analyses and Solutions

Much work on skewed, stochastic, high dimensional, and biased datasets usually implicitly solve each problem separately. Recently, we have been approached by Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to help them build highly accurate ozone level alarm forecasting models for the Houston area, where these technical difficulties come together in one single problem. Key characteristics of this problem that are challenging and interesting include: 1) the dataset is sparse (72 features, and 2% or 5% positives depending on the criteria of "ozone days"), 2) evolving over time from year to year, 3) limited in collected data size (7 years or around 2500 data entries), 4) contains a large number of irrelevant features, 5) is biased in terms of "sample selection bias", and 6) the true model is stochastic as a function of measurable factors. Besides solving a difficult application problem, this dataset offers a unique opportunity to explore new and existing data mining techniques, and to provide experience and guidance for similar problems. Our main technical focus addresses on how to estimate reliable probability given both sample selection bias and a large number of irrelevant features, and how to choose the most reliable decision threshold to predict the unknown future with different distribution. On the application side, the prediction accuracy of our approach is 20% higher in recall (correctly detects 1 to 3 more ozone days, depending on the year) and 10% higher in precision (15 to 30 fewer false alarm days per year) than state-of-the-art methods used by air quality control scientists, and these results are significant for TCEQ.
Neurohydrodynamics as a heuristic mechanism for cognitive processes in decision-making

We propose to model learning of optimal decision rules using a mathematically rigorous descriptive model given by a modified set of Cohen-Grossberg neural network equations with reaction-diffusion processes in an environment of uncertainty. Our theory, which we call Neurohydrodynamics, naturally arises within the framework of neural networks while utilizing the foundations of Decision Field Theory (DFT) for describing the cognitive processes of the mammalian brain in the decision-making processes. Human cognition and intelligence requires more than an algorithmic description by a formal set of rules for its operation; it must possess what Alan Turing called an uncomputable human “intuition” (oracle) as a guide for decision-making processes. We draw an analogy with an idea from Quantum Hydrodynamics, namely, that a “pilot wave” guides quantum mechanical particles along a deterministic path by stochastic “forces” naturally arising from Schrodinger's wave equation. This type of equation was also investigated by Turing, and the reaction-diffusion processes of real neurons have been shown to aid in pattern formation while exhibiting self-organization. Because searching over all courses of action is costly, in both resources and time, we seek to include a mechanism that shortcuts the decision-making processes as described by DFT. Some empirical research has determined that diffusion does occur in the cognitive processing of real human brains. We propose a model for high-level decision processes by combining diffusion with other mechanisms (e.g., adaptive resonance and neuromodulation) for the interactions between different brain regions. For dynamic decision-making tasks, the diffusion processes within certain parts of the frontal lobes and basal ganglia are assumed to interact in hierarchical networks that integrate emotion and cognition incorporating both heuristic and deliberative decision rules.
Association between CK-MB elevation after percutaneous or surgical revascularization and three-year mortality

Abstract Objectives The goal of this study was to assess the long-term impact of creatine kinase-MB isoform (CK-MB) elevation after percutaneous or surgical revascularization. Background The long-term impact of CK-MB elevation after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is not as well characterized as that following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Methods The three-year cumulative survival of consecutive patients who underwent their first percutaneous or surgical revascularization procedure between January 1, 1995 and August 31, 2000 and had CK-MB determination was assessed using the Social Security Death Index. Results The 3,812 patients undergoing CABG had a less favorable coronary risk profile than the 3,573 patients undergoing PCI. The incidence of CK-MB elevation above normal range was 90% and 38% for the CABG and PCI groups (p Conclusions Creatine kinase MB isoform elevation after revascularization is very common, particularly in CABG patients. When extensive, it is independently correlated with increased mortality over a three-year period. Identification and aggressive management of patients with high levels of CK-MB after revascularization may improve their outcome.
Effect of antiplatelet therapy on restenosis after experimental angioplasty.

Abstract Restenosis is recognized as a common complication of PTCA and can limit the long-term benefit of this procedure. To study the effect of antiplatelet agents in preventing restenosis, 25 New Zealand rabbits had bilateral iliac stenoses created by balloon deendothelialization and a 2% cholesterol diet for 6 weeks. After angiographic delineation of the iliac atherosclerosis, successful angioplasty was performed in all rabbits, with an average increase in luminal diameter of 0.9 mm (81%). Seven rabbits received aspirin (32 mg/day) plus dipyridamole (25 mg/day) and 9 received sulfinpyrazone (100 mg/ day); 9 were given no antiplatelet drugs and served as controls. After 4 weeks of drug therapy and a continued atherogenic diet, angiography was repeated and the rabbits were killed for histologic examination. The angiographic luminal diameter was similar for these groups both before and immediately after angioplasty. However, the luminal diameter 4 weeks later was significantly larger in both the aspirin plus dipyridamole and the sulfin-pyrazone groups compared with the control rabbits (1.3 ± 0.6 and 1.8 ± 0.5 mm vs 0.7 ± 0.6 mm, respectively, p
The Effect of the World Wide Web on Agency–Advertiser Relationships: Towards A Strategic Framework

Buffeted by the fragmentation of media and markets, the World Wide Web has started transforming the competitive landscape in the advertising industry. Increasingly, advertising agencies are forced to compete with in-house CIS/MIS departments, public relations agencies and computer graphic studios and boutiques for Web-related accounts. Vis-a-vis the immediacy of the challenge, agencies are forced to either broaden their business horizon to include all aspects of communications or to stay focused on their core business-making advertisements for traditional media. This article examines the possible effects of the World Wide Web on the blurring of boundaries in advertiser- agency performed promotional activities, analyses the similarities in the strategies adopted in the transition from radio to television, and appraises the options which agencies face in adopting the Web.
Opposing Signals from Pathogen-Associated Molecular Patterns and IL-10 Are Critical for Optimal Dendritic Cell Induction of In Vivo Humoral Immunity to Streptococcus pneumoniae

Interleukin10 is widely regarded as an inhibitor of immunity in part through its ability to inhibit dendritic cell (DC) function. The present study suggests a modification of this view by demonstrating instead that a critical balance exists between signals mediated by pathogen-associated molecular patterns and IL-10 for optimization of DC induction of an in vivo humoral immune response. Bone marrow-derived, CD8α− DC pulsed with Streptococcus pneumoniae in vitro induce in vivo protein- and polysaccharide-specific Ig isotype responses upon adoptive transfer into naive mice. Following bacterial activation, DC have a limited time during which they can function as effective APCs in vivo due to the onset of maturation-associated apoptosis. Autocrine IL-10, by limiting the time during which DC are responsive to widely varying levels of bacterial stimulation, delays the onset of DC apoptosis and thus prolongs the time during which DC are able to elicit in vivo humoral immunity. These data demonstrate a requirement for properly balanced positive and negative signaling in DC to optimize an in vivo immune response to a pathogen.
Making Effective Use of the Substitute Teacher: An Administrative Opportunity:

While countless facets of today's educational process are being improved, the problem of substitute teaching remains largely ignored. This writer contends that the typical substitute teacher program retains antiquated stop-gap measures of little value to a school.
Brain-based target expansion

The bubble cursor is a promising cursor expansion technique, improving a user's movement time and accuracy in pointing tasks. We introduce a brain-based target expansion system, which improves the efficacy of bubble cursor by increasing the expansion of high importance targets at the optimal time based on brain measurements correlated to a particular type of multitasking. We demonstrate through controlled experiments that brain-based target expansion can deliver a graded and continuous level of assistance to a user according to their cognitive state, thereby improving task and speed-accuracy metrics, even without explicit visual changes to the system. Such an adaptation is ideal for use in complex systems to steer users toward higher priority goals during times of increased demand.
Trends in Burden of Cirrhosis and Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Underlying Liver Disease in US Veterans, 2001–2013

Background & Aims Cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are predicted to increase in the United States but the accuracy of prior forecasts and the contributions from various liver disease etiologies remain unclear. We aimed to determine the burden of cirrhosis and HCC according to underlying cause from 2001 to 2013. Methods We developed a national retrospective cohort of Veterans Affairs (VA) patients with the diagnosis of cirrhosis (n = 129,998) or HCC ( n = 21,326) from 2001 to 2013. We used laboratory results, International Classification of Diseases, ninth edition (ICD-9) codes, and body mass index to identify underlying etiologies. Results In 2013, VA provided care to 5,720,614 individuals, of whom 60,553 (1.06%) had cirrhosis and 7,670 (0.13%) had HCC. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) was present in an increasing proportion of cirrhosis and HCC between 2001 and 2013, reaching 48% of cirrhosis cases and deaths and 67% of HCC cases and deaths by 2013. Cirrhosis prevalence nearly doubled from 2001 to 2013 (664 to 1058 per 100,000 enrollees), driven by HCV and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Cirrhosis incidence ranged from 159 to 193 per 100,000 patient-years. Deaths in patients with cirrhosis increased from 83 to 126 per 100,000 patient-years, largely driven by HCV. HCC incidence was 2.5-fold increased from 17 to 45 per 100,000 patient-years. HCC mortality tripled from 13 to 37 per 100,000 patient-years, driven overwhelmingly by HCV, with much smaller contributions from NAFLD and alcoholic liver disease. Conclusions Cirrhosis prevalence and mortality and HCC incidence and mortality increased from 2001 to 2013, driven by HCV, with a smaller contribution from NAFLD. If current trends continue, cirrhosis prevalence will peak in 2021. Health care systems will need to accommodate rising numbers of patients with cirrhosis and HCC.
Perceived Utility of Methods and Instructional Strategies Used in Online and Face-to-Face Teaching Environments

The purposes of this study were to compare the instructional methods and strategies identified as useful in online teaching environments with those used in a face-to-face teaching environment, to investigate relationships between the perceived usefulness of instructional strategies and methods used by higher education faculty in both teaching environments, and to identify instructional methods transferred from an online to a face-to-face teaching environment. The following instructional methods were found to have a significant relationship with the instructional environment: student collaborative projects, student-to-student electronic discussions, lecture (direct instruction), questioning and feedback to students, and e-mail communication with the instructor.
Exchange rate fluctuations in Croatia: test of uncovered interest rate parity and the open economy model

This study finds that the US dollar/kuna exchange rate for Croatia is positively influenced by the expected exchange rate and negatively associated with real M1, the US T-bond rate, the euro interest rate, the expected inflation rate, and the relative price. Deficit spending does not affect the exchange rate. Most of the variation in exchange rates can be explained by the open economy model and uncovered interest-rate parity.
Humoral, Mucosal, and Cell-Mediated Immunity Against Vaccine and Nonvaccine Genotypes After Administration of Quadrivalent Human Papillomavirus Vaccine to HIV-Infected Children

Objectives. To characterize the immunogenicity of a quadrivalent human papillomavirus vaccine (QHPV) in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)–infected children, we studied their immune responses to 3 or 4 doses. Methods. HIV-infected children aged 7–12 years with a CD4 cell percentage of ≥15% of lymphocytes, received 3 doses of QHPV with or without a fourth dose after 72 weeks. Type-specific and cross-reactive antibodies and cell-mediated immunity were measured. Results. Type-specific antibodies to HPV6, 11, and 16 were detected in 100% and ≥94% of children at 4 and 72 weeks, respectively, after the third QHPV dose. Corresponding numbers for HPV18 were 97% and 76%, respectively. A fourth QHPV dose increased seropositivity to ≥96% for all vaccine genotypes. Four weeks after the third QHPV dose, 67% of vaccinees seroconverted to HPV31, an HPV16-related genotype not in the vaccine; 69% and 39% of vaccinees developed mucosal HPV16 and 18 immunoglobulin G antibodies, respectively; and 60% and 52% of vaccinees developed cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) for HPV16 and 31, respectively. Conclusions. Three QHPV doses generated robust and persistent antibodies to HPV6, 11, and 16 but comparatively weaker responses to HPV18. A fourth dose increased antibodies against all vaccine genotypes in an anamnestic fashion. CTLs and mucosal antibodies against vaccine genotypes, as well as cross-reactive antibodies and CTL against nonvaccine genotypes, were detected.
Doctoral colloquium keynote address: being a professional

Various aspects of being a professional are discussed in this paper. These include personal qualities, lifetime professional development, professional responsibilities, job responsibilities, service, and a balanced life style.
W[h]ither the Kyoto Protocol? Durban and Beyond

What will happen when the Kyoto Protocol's first commitment period expires at the end of next year? This paper for the Harvard Project on International Climate Agreements analyzes the options going forward, including adoption of a legally-binding second commitment period, a "political" second commitment period, or no new commitment period. It considers the legal implications of a gap between the end of Kyoto's first commitment period and the adoption of a new legal regime to limit emissions, the prospects for the Clean Development Mechanism in the absence of a second Kyoto commitment period, and the relationship between the Kyoto Protocol negotiations and the emerging regime under the Cancun Agreements. It concludes that a transitional regime, involving a second commitment period that is politically but not legally binding, represents a possible middle ground that could complement efforts under the Cancun Agreements to develop a flexible, evolutionary framework of climate governance.
Physical conditions of protosolar matter

I review a few astronomical constraints concerning physical conditions in and evolutionary time–scales of protoplanetary discs. Some revisions are suggested to the scenario by which short–lived radioactive species would enter the protosolar cloud. The increasing evidence for substantial grain growth in discs at ages of 1 Myr is also outlined. Protoplanetary discs are accretion discs; when (inner) dust emission decreases strongly, accretion stops, demonstrating a relationship between the disappearance of infrared excess emission and accretable gas. The time–scale for disc ‘clearing’ is ca . 3–10 Myr, with a large range for individual systems. If disc masses estimated from dust emission are at all accurate, then the amount of material accreted onto the central star during the T Tauri phase is a substantial fraction of the total disc mass available at 1 Myr; and this in turn implies substantial radial motion of the accreting material during disc evolution. It may be that the formation of planets is the primary mechanism resulting in the cessation of accretion; certainly it is difficult to see how gas can be removed from T Tauri discs on 10 Myr time–scales.
Electrochemical detection of parts-per-billion lead via an electrode-bound DNAzyme assembly.

An electrochemical lead sensor is based on lead-dependent changes in the conformational state of a surface-immobilized, methylene-blue modified DNAzyme assembly.
Glide performance and aerodynamics of non-equilibrium glides in northern flying squirrels (Glaucomys sabrinus).

Gliding is an efficient form of travel found in every major group of terrestrial vertebrates. Gliding is often modelled in equilibrium, where aerodynamic forces exactly balance body weight resulting in constant velocity. Although the equilibrium model is relevant for long-distance gliding, such as soaring by birds, it may not be realistic for shorter distances between trees. To understand the aerodynamics of inter-tree gliding, we used direct observation and mathematical modelling. We used videography (60–125 fps) to track and reconstruct the three-dimensional trajectories of northern flying squirrels ( Glaucomys sabrinus ) in nature. From their trajectories, we calculated velocities, aerodynamic forces and force coefficients. We determined that flying squirrels do not glide at equilibrium, and instead demonstrate continuously changing velocities, forces and force coefficients, and generate more lift than needed to balance body weight. We compared observed glide performance with mathematical simulations that use constant force coefficients, a characteristic of equilibrium glides. Simulations with varying force coefficients, such as those of live squirrels, demonstrated better whole-glide performance compared with the theoretical equilibrium state. Using results from both the observed glides and the simulation, we describe the mechanics and execution of inter-tree glides, and then discuss how gliding behaviour may relate to the evolution of flapping flight.
Multi-relational learning via hierarchical nonparametric Bayesian collective matrix factorization

Relational learning addresses problems where the data come from multiple sources and are linked together through complex relational networks. Two important goals are pattern discovery (e.g. by (co)-clustering) and predicting unknown values of a relation, given a set of entities and observed relations among entities. In the presence of multiple relations, combining information from different but related relations can lead to better insights and improved prediction. For this purpose, we propose a nonparametric hierarchical Bayesian model that improves on existing collaborative factorization models and frames a large number of relational learning problems. The proposed model naturally incorporates (co)-clustering and prediction analysis in a single unified framework, and allows for the estimation of entire missing row or column vectors. We develop an efficient Gibbs algorithm and a hybrid Gibbs using Newton's method to enable fast computation in high dimensions. We demonstrate the value of our framework on s...
AMP-activated protein kinase activation prevents denervation-induced decline in gastrocnemius GLUT-4.

This study was designed to determine whether the reductions in GLUT-4 seen in 3-day-denervated muscles can be prevented through chemical activation of 5′-AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Muscle...
Rethinking Music Critique

We have learned in previous chapters that performance conveys a doubly infinite message: the infinity of interpretative perspectives as they are realized in music analysis, gesturality, and emotive expressivity, and the variety of performative shaping expressed in the infinitesimal vocabulary of performance fields.
Spatial solitons in photorefractive media

We present a new type of spatial soliton, generated by the photorefractive (PR) effect of the medium. The shape of the soliton modulates the refractive index via the PR effect, which results in an exact compensation for the effects of diffraction, and causes the light beam to propagate the unvarying profile. This index modulation is represented in the formalism as a distribution of index gratings, each one of them induced by the interference between two spatial (frequency) plane wave components of the light beam. Since the efficiency of this effect is independent of absolute light intensity, these new solitons can be generated even at very moderate light intensities. Moreover, a given soliton waveform can propagate unchanged in the medium, at very high or very low light intensities (and at all levels in between).
Structural Equation Modeling: An Alternative to Traditional Validation Techniques:

Validation of the sequencing of objectives is an important step in structural design. Prior statistical techniques, such as the reproducibility coefficient, have yielded only summary information. In contrast, structural equation modeling provides both goodness-of-fit indices and effect coefficients for links or paths between time-ordered events, i.e., objectives. Discussed here is the application of structural equation modeling to a set of objectives in a senior-level cardiovascular nursing course. Consistent with the theory-based requirement of structural equation modeling, the objectives were developed using Robert Gagne's conditions of learning. Also discussed is the use of “t” values, which indicate statistical significance of the paths, for testing instructional links in the learning model.
CH4-Sensing and High-Temperature Mechanical Properties of Porous CaZrO3/MgO Composites with Three-Dimensional Network Structure

Uniformly open-porous CaZrO3/MgO composites were prepared by pressureless reactive sintering, and their gas sensing properties to CH4 and high-temperature strength were studied. The results suggested that the porous material can be used not only for high-temperature filters as reported before, but also for gas sensors. Thus, it is possible to produce multi-functional filters, i.e., simultaneous hot gas-filtering and gas-sensing in one component.
Identification of L1 ORF2p sequence important to retrotransposition using Bipartile Alu retrotransposition (BAR)

Long Interspersed Element 1 (LINE-1 or L1) is capable of causing genomic instability through the activity of the L1 ORF2 protein (ORF2p). This protein contains endonuclease (EN) and reverse transcriptase (RT) domains that are necessary for the retrotransposition of L1 and the Short Interspersed Element (SINE) Alu. The functional importance of approximately 50% of the ORF2p molecule remains unknown, but some of these sequences could play a role in retrotransposition, or be necessary for the enzymatic activities of the EN and/or RT domains. Conventional approaches using the full-length, contiguous ORF2p make it difficult to study the involvement of these unannotated sequences in the function of L1 ORF2p. Our lab has developed a Bipartile Alu Retrotransposition (BAR) assay that relies on separate truncated ORF2p fragments: an EN-containing and an RT-containing fragment. We validated the utility of this method for studying the ORF2p function in retrotransposition by assessing the effect of expression levels and previously characterized mutations on BAR. Using BAR, we identified two pairs of amino acids important for retrotransposition, an FF and a WD. The WD appears to play a role in cDNA synthesis by the ORF2p molecule, despite being outside the canonical RT domain.