cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Static single-arm force generation with kinematic constraints

This study investigates natural single-arm interaction with kinematic constraints. Smooth, frictionless, kinematic constraints reduce the degrees-of-freedom of motion at the hand, but add force freedoms. These force freedoms allow the hand to push and pull against the constraints with no effect on the task. Understanding how subjects take advantage of kinematic constraints will be useful in designing constraint surfaces for assisted manipulation. This paper reports the results of an experiment studying how subjects make use of the presence of a kinematic constraint in a static planar single-arm task. Subjects are asked to hold a handle that is free to slide on a linear rail, and to apply a force tangent to the rail to resist a pulling force. Thus the goal of the task is to hold the handle stationary. Subjects are also free to apply any force normal to the rail, as these forces have no effect on the task. This freedom does not exist without a kinematic constraint. We find that subjects make use of the force freedom by applying significant forces against the constraint in a consistent and constraint-configuration-dependent fashion. We show that the constraint forces can be predicted by a convex, scale-invariant objective function on the hand force space. The level curves of this objective function can be found directly from the experimental data without any biomechanical modeling.
Risk group stratification and prognostic factors in papillary carcinoma of thyroid.

Background: Our understanding of the natural history of differentiated thyroid carcinoma has improved with the definition of prognostic factors. These prognostic factors have helped us identify patients in various risk groups.
A rheostatic mechanism for T-cell inhibition based on elevation of activation thresholds

The activation of discrete T-cell responses depends on the triggering of individualized threshold numbers of T-cell receptors (TCRs). The results of this study indicate that the lipocalin placental protein 14 (PP14), a T-cell inhibitor produced by cells of the reproductive and hematopoietic systems, mediates its anti-inflammatory activity by elevating the T-cell activation threshold, thereby rendering T cells less sensitive to stimulation. Significantly, the data demonstrate hierarchical sensitivity of selected cytokine responses to PP14-mediated inhibition, with the hierarchy reflecting their respective activation thresholds. These findings suggest a novel paradigm for immunoinhibition wherein negative regulators can finely tune, rather than inactivate, T-cell responses, and thereby skew the cytokine output of immunologic responses.
Australian Natural History Series: Albatrosses. Terence Lindsey.

Australian Natural History Series: Great Whales. John Bannister. 2008. CSIRO Publishing, Collingwood, Victoria, Australia. 142 pp. $27.45. ISBN: 978-0-64309-373-7 (softcover). Australian Natural History Series: Platypus. Fourth Edition. Tom Grant, illustrated by Dominic Fanning. 2008. CSIRO Publishing, Collingwood, Victoria, Australia. 159 pp. $27.45. ISBN: 978-0-64309-370-6 (softcover).
Detection of sequential polyubiquitylation on a millisecond timescale.

The pathway by which ubiquitin chains are generated on substrate through a cascade of enzymes consisting of an E1, E2 and E3 remains unclear. Multiple distinct models involving chain assembly on E2 or substrate have been proposed. However, the speed and complexity of the reaction have precluded direct experimental tests to distinguish between potential pathways. Here we introduce new theoretical and experimental methodologies to address both limitations. A quantitative framework based on product distribution predicts that the really interesting new gene (RING) E3 enzymes SCF^(Cdc4) and SCF^(β-TrCP) work with the E2 Cdc34 to build polyubiquitin chains on substrates by sequential transfers of single ubiquitins. Measurements with millisecond time resolution directly demonstrate that substrate polyubiquitylation proceeds sequentially. Our results present an unprecedented glimpse into the mechanism of RING ubiquitin ligases and illuminate the quantitative parameters that underlie the rate and pattern of ubiquitin chain assembly.
Size Structured Competition Model with Periodic Coefficients

Abstract A model of Diekmann et al. [14] for two size-structured populations competing for a single resource is extended in this paper to allow for periodic variation in parameter values (having a common period). The hyperbolic partial differential equation model is reduced to systems of ordinary differential equations describing the dynamic of two size-structured species competing for a single unstructured resource. The existence of nontrivial periodic solutions of those systems is considered. Under fairly general conditions, global bifurcation techniques as used by Gushing are used to show the existence of a continuum of solutions that bifurcate from a noncritical periodic solution of the reduced single species system. The positivity and the stability of the bifurcating branch solutions are studied. The stability is shown to depend on the stability of the solutions of the reduced system and the direction of bifurcation. The results and techniques can be generalized to the case of n, n ≥ 1, size-structured species competing for a single resource. It is also shown that the average size of individuals of each species is governed by a nonautonomous logistic equation whose solution under fairly general conditions approaches the unique periodic solution of the classical periodic logistic equation.
Neurotransmitter suppression of the in vitro generation of a cytotoxic T lymphocyte response against the syngeneic MOPC-315 plasmacytoma

We have previously shown that, as a consequence of low-dose melphalan (l-phenylalanine mustard (l-PAM) therapy, the hitherto immunosuppressed spleen cells from BALB/c mice bearing a large MOPC-315 tumor (in contrast to spleen cells from normal mice) acquire the ability to generate a greatly enhanced anti-MOPC-315 cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) response upon in vitro stimulation with MOPC-315 tumor cells. Here we show that the catecholamines norepinephrine, epinephrine, and isoproterenol suppressed the in vitro generation of anti-MOPC-315 cytotoxicity by spleen cells from mice that had just completed the eradication of a large MOPC-315 tumor following low-dosel-PAM therapy (l-PAM TuB spleen cells), as well as by spleen cells from normal mice. In contrast to the marked suppression obtained with catecholamines, the cholinergic agonist carbachol had no effect on the in vitro generation of splenic anti-MOPC-315 cytotoxicity. The inhibitory effect of the catecholamines was “mimicked” by the membranepenetrating analog of cAMP, dibutyryl-cAMP, and by cholera toxin at concentrations that stimulate the endogenous production of cAMP. The β-adrenergic receptor antagonist propranolol did not block norepinephrine-induced inhibition of the generation of anti-MOPC-315 cytotoxicity by either normal orl-PAM TuB spleen cells. Since the curative effectiveness of low-dosel-PAM therapy for MOPC-315 tumor bearers requires the participation of CD8+ T cells that exploit a CTL response in tumor eradication, it is conceivable that norepinephrine may reduce the therapeutic outcome of low-dose chemotherapy by inhibiting the acquisition of CTL activity.
Making evolution rigorous: the error threshold

In a series of influential papers Eigen and his coworkers introduced the quasispecies model as a firstorder approximation to (Darwinian) evolution and applied it to self-reproducing molecules such as RNA or DNA in an attempt to explain the origin of genetic information which gives rise to life. It was argued by Eigen that an important property in such a model of evolution is the existence of an error threshold: A rate of error during the reproduction phase below which genetic information is intact and above which it disappears. Besides the insights the quasispecies model has provided on the emergence of life, perhaps its most powerful impact has been on the study of viruses where error threshold phenomena has been leveraged to design drug strategies that attempt to mutate the virus to death. While the existence of error thresholds for specific settings has been verified by computer simulations, and has been the basis for the design of mutagenic drugs, a mathematical proof of this phenomena has remained elusive. The trouble is that one can construct pathological examples for which no non-trivial error threshold can exist. In this paper we present a proof of existence of a sharp error threshold in the quasispecies model for a large set of biologically relevant evolutionary parameters. Our analysis benefits from viewing the quasispecies model as an evolutionary process on the hypercube which permits the use of simple yet powerful ideas from linear algebra and Fourier analysis. FIGURE 1. Simulation results for a single peak model on binary strings of length 20 where the curves shown correspond to the relative concentration of strings of the given Hamming weight at the steady state. The illustration implies a phase transition when the error rate is about 0.11. From [Eig02]. Nisheeth K. Vishnoi. Microsoft Research, Bangalore, India. Email: nisheeth.vishnoi@gmail.com.
Tales From the Hood An Emic Perspective on Gang Joining and Gang Desistance

Using in-depth interviews with current and former gang members in Bexar County, Texas, and Orange County, Florida, this research examines the processes and methods of joining and leaving gangs. Alt...
Identifying the best practices of media catching: A national survey of media relations practitioners

Abstract Web-based services, like Help-A-Reporter-Out (HARO), that allow journalists to send content requests to a multitude of public relations agents are becoming more popular among media relations practitioners. The purpose of this study is to examine how practitioners are using HARO and to measure success rates of media placements against the proposed best practices of “media catching”. An online survey (n = 110) was conducted of members of Public Relations Society of America who identified themselves as working in media relations. Analysis revealed five best practices that had a positive significant correlation to journalist response rates and placement success rates. The results also indicated what media outlets practitioners preferred to reply to using the HARO service. As more practitioners are integrating media catching services in their daily routine, it is important to ensure they are employing best practices in order to develop and maintain positive working relationships with journalists.
Reduction in Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia Following Application of a Pediatric Ventilatory Care Bundle

ISSUE: Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in pediatric intensive care units. The incidence of VAP varies greatly depending on patient risk factors and duration of mechanical ventilation. PROJECT: In January 2005, a multidisciplinary team was convened to develop strategies to reduce VAP. The team adapted the Institute for Healthcare Improvement's adult ventilatory care bundle to pediatric patients to include elevation of the head of the bed, mouth care, proper storage of oral suction devices, changing of circuits and in-line suction catheters only when soiled, and daily review of ventilator needs. Following a trial of the VAP bundle, heated circuits to reduce condensation and a checklist were added. Education was provided to staff utilizing inservices, e-mails, posters, and computer screen savers. Real time reporting of VAP cases was implemented and root cause analysis of each case performed. Staff was informed of progress through weekly unit posters highlighting days since last VAP. RESULTS: Reliable implementation of the bundle resulted in reduced VAP rates per 1000 device days for each intensive care unit. For comparison purposes, the preceding annual rate for each unit was compared to a 4-month post-intervention rate. The PICU rate decreased from 5.8 to 0.0, the CICU from 9.6 to 6.1, and the NICU from 5.8 to 1.1. LESSONS LEARNED: Staff education alone did not improve compliance. Unit-specific respiratory therapy leadership was instrumental in developing reliability and key to the project's success. Prepackaged, single-use kits to facilitate every four-hour mouth care, the introduction of heated circuits to reduce condensation, and the implementation of a staff checklist were essential for maintaining improvement. Strategies to sustain reliability are being developed.
Influence of sulfur on the toxicity of selenium to Aspergillus

Experiments were performed to investigate the influence of the sulfur/selenium ratio and sulfur amino acids on the selenate inhibition of Aspergillus niger. All the sulfur amino acids investigated were able to counteract, partially or wholly, the inhibition of growth. Mycelial growth and selenium accumulation were found to be a function of the sulfur/selenium ratio when sulfur was supplied as sulfate and selenium as selenate. As the ratio was increased, growth increased and selenium accumulation decreased. The results suggest that selenate toxicity in this organism is of a multiple nature, consisting of a number of competitive actions between sulfur and selenium analogues. 34 references, 4 figures, 3 tables.
METABOLIC AND FUNCTIONAL DEFECTS IN NEONATAL GRANULOCYTES (PMN)

Newborns (N) have an increased susceptibility to infection. Because of conflicting previous data on the functional capabilities of their PMN metabolic, phagocytic and bactericidal activities of normal full term N were studied and compared to normal adult controls. Phagocytosis of 14C S. aureus 502A at 20 min. and myeloperoxidase mediated protein iodination at 60 min. were not depressed. Resting 14C-1-glucose oxidation was equivalent, however 60 min. after phagocytosis of yeast N-PMN exhibited significant depressions in activity when compared to the controls (783±132 cpm 14CO2/1×106 PMN v.s. 1545±179, P<0.01). This was paralleled by reduced rates of O2 consumption by N-PMN after 10 min. of phagocytosis (10-15 min. 2.89±0.19 μmoles/15×106 PMN/min. v.s. 3.66±0.20, P<0.02; 15-20 min.;1.76±0.11 v.s. 2.30±0.11, P<0.02), while initial rates were similar. These defects may reflect decreased H2O2 production. These observations were paralleled by a mild but significant reduction in the killing of S. aureus 502A by N-PMN evident only on prolonged incubation (60 min,;92.8% killed v.s. 95.7%, P<0.02, 120 min.;95.1% v.s. 97.2%, P<0.05). These studies suggest that N-PMN have diminished H2O2 production reflected in a mild impairment of bactericidal activity. When coupled with previously documented opsonic and chemotactic defects these findings may have pathogenetic significance in the increased susceptibility of the N to infection.
Sex of model and sex of subject in reduction of snake avoidance.

The effects of sex of experimenter on approach to a snake were assessed in both modeling and non-modeling conditions. Subjects were selected on the basis of a pretest in which they indicated that they would never pick up a harmless snake depicted on one of eight color slides of animals. 72 subjects (36 males and 36 females) served in one of 8 groups (4 groups of males and 4 groups of females). Each group of 9 subjects served in one of the following conditions: (a) a non-modeling condition with the same sex experimenter, (b) a non-modeling condition with an opposite sex experimenter, (c) a modeling condition with the same sex experimenter, and (d) a modeling condition with an opposite sex experimenter. All experimenters were selected to be attractive. Analysis of variance for scores on a 19-step sequence of approach yielded a significant interaction of sex of experimenter by sex of subject (F = 4.18, df = 1/64, p less than .05). All other comparisons were non-significant. Results indicate that an attractive experimenter of the opposite sex increases approaching a snake particularly by male subjects.
Barriers to Physical Activity Among African American Women: An Integrative Review of the Literature

A key aspect for researchers to consider when developing culturally appropriate physical activity (PA) interventions for African American (AA) women are the specific barriers AA women face that limit their participation in PA. Identification and critical examination of these barriers is the first step in developing comprehensive culturally relevant approaches to promote PA and help resolve PA-related health disparities in this underserved population. We conducted a systematic integrative literature review to identify barriers to PA among AA women. Five electronic databases were searched, and forty-two studies (twenty-seven qualitative, fourteen quantitative, one mixed method) published since 1990 (range 1998-2013) in English language journals met inclusion criteria for review. Barriers were classified as intrapersonal, interpersonal, or environment/community according to their respective level of influence within our social ecological framework. Intrapersonal barriers included lack of time, knowledge, and motivation; physical appearance concerns; health concerns; monetary cost of exercise facilities; and tiredness/fatigue. Interpersonal barriers included family/caregiving responsibilities; lack of social support; and lack of a PA partner. Environmental barriers included safety concerns; lack of facilities; weather concerns; lack of sidewalks; and lack of physically active AA role models. Results provide key leverage points for researchers to consider when developing culturally relevant PA interventions for AA women.
Towards optimal rate allocation in multi-hop wireless networks with delay constraints: A double-price approach

This paper investigates the optimal rate allocation problem with end-to-end delay constraints in multi-hop wireless networks. We introduce Virtual Link Capacity Margin (VLCM), which is the gap between the schedulable link capacity and the maximum allowable flow rate over a link, for link delay control. We formulate the problem as a utility maximization framework with two sets of constraints: 1) capacity and schedulability constraints and 2) end-to-end delay constraints. By dual decomposition of the original optimization problem, we present a control algorithm that jointly tunes the flow rates and VLCMs, through a double-price scheme derived with regard to the constraints: the link congestion price reflecting the traffic load of a link, and the flow delay price reflecting the margin between the average packet delay and the delay requirement of a flow. We prove that the algorithm converges to a global optimum where the aggregate network utility defined over the flow rate set is maximized, while the delay constraints are satisfied. A key feature of our algorithm is it does not rely on a specific traffic model. The algorithm is implemented distributedly via joint wireless link scheduling and congestion control. Simulation results show that our algorithm outperforms heuristic rate allocation algorithms while satisfying the end-to-end delay constraints.
Using DIRSIG to identify uniform sites and demonstrate the utility of the side-slither calibration technique for Landsat's new pushbroom instruments

The Operational Land Imager (OLI) and Thermal Infrared Sensor (TIRS) are two new sensors being developed by the joint USGS-NASA Landsat Data Continuity Mission (LDCM) that will extend nearly 40 years of archived Landsat data once it achieves orbit in January of 2013. Previous efforts focused on using the DIRSIG (Digital Imaging and Remote Sensing Image Generation) tool to simulate all the phenomenology that can lead to non-uniformity variations in an LDCM image. This includes detector-to-detector and array-to-array non-uniformities due to variations in relative spectral response (RSR), gain, bias, and non-linearities. Synthetic images were generated to predict the LDCM performance pre-launch and to identify calibration concerns. In support of the calibration effort for LDCM, this work expands on an on-orbit calibration technique called side-slither. In this technique, a 90 degree yaw maneuver is performed over a uniform region in an effort to determine a flat-field correction. The first component of this research uses Landsat 5 radiance images as input to DIRSIG to evaluate potential sites for LDCM to perform side-slither once it achieves orbit. Relative gains are calculated and compared over desert regions, the Amazon, water bodies, and Antarctica in an effort to identify suitable sites for the maneuver. The second component of this work uses the DIRSIG tool to model all the non-uniformity variations from previous efforts and to perform the side-slither technique in an effort to calibrate the raw data. Synthetic image data is used and presented to measure the potential value of this calibration technique.
Primary spinal yolk sac tumor with brain metastasis: Case report and review of the literature

Central nervous system primary germ cell tumors are typically pineal or suprasellar. Primary germ cell tumors of the spinal axis are very rare, with only a few case reports of germinomas and teratomas described in the literature. We present the unique case of a 25-year-old woman with an intradural, extramedullary primary yolk sac tumor (YST) at and below the level of the conus medullaris. The patient was treated with a subtotal resection and within a month had rapid regrowth of her YST. She was subsequently treated with four cycles of chemotherapy (intravenous cisplatin and etoposide), 40-Gy fractionated focal external beam radiation to the spine, and consolidation with four additional cycles of chemotherapy (intravenous carboplatin, vinblastine, etoposide, and bleomycin). Despite an initial reduction in tumor size and clinical improvement in her neurologic exam, she re-presented a year after surgery with gross enlargement of her spinal tumor and CSF dissemination with metastasis to her brain. Despite further chemotherapy and radiotherapy, the patient died from her disseminated YST. This case demonstrates that primary YSTs may occur in the spine, and like their intracranial counterparts, are associated with poor prognosis and dissemination through the neuroaxis. When feasible (no evidence of CSF dissemination, metastasis, or multifocal disease), optimal treatment includes as extensive resection of tumor as possible followed by adjuvant chemotherapy and radiation. The authors review the available literature on the treatment of intracranial malignant germ cell tumors, extrapolated to apply to the much rarer spinal lesions.
Transforming growth factor β1 stimulates inorganic pyrophosphate elaboration by porcine cartilage

The overproduction of inorganic pyrophosphate (PPi) by cartilage is thought to be a key element in the formation of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate (CPPD) crystals in joints, and the subsequent development of pseudogout or chondrocalcinosis. We report herein that transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF beta 1), alone and in synergy with epidermal growth factor (EGF) or TGF alpha, markedly stimulates PPi elaboration by porcine articular cartilage in organ culture and monolayer culture. This effect is not seen with platelet-derived growth factor, basic fibroblast growth factor, or insulin-like growth factor types 1 and 2, substances which also affect chondrocyte metabolism or are mitogenic. TGF beta 1 produces only a modest increase in nucleoside triphosphate pyrophosphohydrolase (NTPPPH), a chondrocyte ectoenzyme that produces PPi; this implies the existence of other pathways for PPi elaboration. TGF beta 1 is present in joint fluid and cartilage. TGF beta 1, TGF alpha, and EGF are the first known physiologic modifiers of cartilage PPi production. They provide a novel model for the study of CPPD crystal formation in cartilage, as well as new insights into the pathogenesis of this common affliction of aging.
Periodic solutions and locking-in on the periodic surface

Abstract Periodic solutions (on the torus) are studied for the differential equation on the torus θ ' = 1 + ge ‖( t / T ), θ , T , ϵ ). This equation, for example, governs solutions on the periodic surface for a periodically perturbed autonomous system. The set of all points in a horizontal strip of the T — ϵ plane containing ϵ = 0 for which the equation has periodic solutions are characterized, and the characterization is shown to be best possible. Locking-in is also discussed.
Synaptic correlates of fear extinction in the amygdala

Anxiety disorders such as post-traumatic stress are characterized by an impaired ability to learn that cues previously associated with danger no longer represent a threat. However, the mechanisms underlying fear extinction remain unclear. We found that fear extinction in rats was associated with increased levels of synaptic inhibition in fear output neurons of the central amygdala (CEA). This increased inhibition resulted from a potentiation of fear input synapses to GABAergic intercalated amygdala neurons that project to the CEA. Enhancement of inputs to intercalated cells required prefrontal activity during extinction training and involved an increased transmitter release probability coupled to an altered expression profile of ionotropic glutamate receptors. Overall, our results suggest that intercalated cells constitute a promising target for pharmacological treatment of anxiety disorders.
Safety and Efficacy of Electroconvulsive Therapy in Patients Over Age 85

The authors report that electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) can be used safely and effectively in patients over age 85 with concurrent psychiatric and medical problems. Affective and psychotic illnesses are common and debilitating in geriatric patients. This same population has a high frequency of medical comorbidity, which makes it difficult for patients to tolerate adequate doses of standard pharmacotherapies to treat psychiatric problems. Also, many of these individuals are nonresponsive to psychopharmacologic therapies tried. Consequently, ECT becomes an important treatment option in elderly patients.
Avalanche fatalities in the western United States: a comparison of three databases

Reported avalanche fatalities in the United States increased markedly through the latter half of the twentieth century, a result of the increasing popularity of winter sports. Despite this increase, the literature concerning US avalanche fatalities is sparse. This paper presents a comparison of three US databases containing avalanche fatality information: Storm Data, the West Wide Avalanche Network (WWAN) dataset, and the National Avalanche Database (NAD). The frequency of avalanche fatalities, their temporal trends, spatial distributions, and the demographic characteristics of the victims were analyzed in each database for the years 1998–2009 for the US mountainous west. The data were then pooled to arrive at an estimate of avalanche fatality frequency in the United States for the study period. While the results indicate a considerable amount of overlap between the datasets, Storm Data reports fewer avalanche fatalities than both the WWAN and NAD datasets. All three datasets report a maximum of fatalities in January and display three spatial maxima: the Rocky Mountains of west-central Colorado, the intermountain region from central Utah through Idaho to west-central Montana, and the northern Cascade Ranges of Washington; however, a large void appears in the Storm Data records in the vicinity of the Montana maximum. These maxima result from a juxtaposition of avalanche hazard in these mountainous environments with a high concentration of winter sports activities.
It's the law: Protecting audit suspects' rights

Investigations into employee embezzlement, theft, and money laundering have taken on a new wrinkle: many now fall under the requirements of the Fair Credit Reporting Act. How does this affect audits and investigations? © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Operational Land Imager (OLI) and the Thermal Infrared Sensor (TIRS) on the Landsat Data Continuity Mission (LDCM)

The Landsat Data Continuity Mission (LDCM), a joint NASA and United States Geological Survey (USGS) mission, is scheduled for launch in December, 2012. The LDCM instrument payload will consist of the Operational Land Imager (OLI), provided by Ball Aerospace and Technology Corporation (BATC) under contract to NASA and the Thermal Infrared Sensor (TIRS), provided by NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC). This paper will describe the design, capabilities and status of the OLI and TIRS instruments. The OLI will provide 8 channel multispectral images at a spatial resolution of 30 meters and panchromatic images at 15 meter spatial resolution. The TIRS is a 100 meter spatial resolution push-broom imager whose two spectral channels, centered at 10.8 and 12 microns, split the ETM+ thermal bands. The two channels allow the use of the "split-window" technique to aid in atmospheric correction. The TIRS focal plane consists of three Quantum Well Infrared Photodetector (QWIP) arrays to span the 185 km swath width. The OLI and TIRS instruments will be operated independently but in concert with each other. Data from both instruments will be merged into a single data stream at the (USGS)/Earth Resources Observation and Science (EROS) facility. The ground system, being developed by USGS, includes an Image Assessment System (lAS), similar to Landsat-7's, to operationally monitor, characterize and update the calibrations of the two sensors.
Potent and reversible interaction of silver with pure Na,K-ATPase and Na,K-ATPase-liposomes

The Na,K-ATPase (EC 3.6.1.37) is the receptor for cardioactive steroids, the only specific inhibitors known at the present time for this unique membrane bound transport system. We report here that silver is the most rapid and potent inhibitor of isolated Na,K-ATPase ever described. Inhibition of Na,K-ATPase activity by silver is immediate and strikingly distinct from other inhibitors: addition of 1 mM of cysteine or DMPS reactivates the silver blocked-enzyme immediately. The results reveal that silver interacts with Na,K-ATPase and inhibits differently by an on-off mechanism involving most likely a few critical sulfhydryl groups. Inhibition of Na-K transport by silver has been demonstrated also in an artificial membrane, e.g., in liposomes reconstituted with pure Na,K-ATPase performing active transport. Silver inhibits the active 86Rb transport mediated by the pure Na,K-ATPase molecule. The Na,K-ATPase contained in the liposomes was labeled specifically with 110mAg and appeared to bind two silver ions. Taken together, the results show that the mechanism of silver interaction with Na,K-ATPase might be different from other metals, for instance, mercury. The unique action mechanism of silver suggests a fundamental role of a few critical sulfhydryl groups for Na,K-transport.
Left ventricular angiocardiography in the diagnosis of persistent atrioventricular canal and related anomalies

Abstract The usefulness of left ventricular selective angiocardiography and indicator dilution curves in the study of patients with persistent atrioventricular canal and related complex defects is described. These studies permit precise preoperative diagnosis and their application is indicated when clinical or catheterization findings are considered atypical. The value of the technics is illustrated by selected clinical examples.
Supplemental Feed Protein Concentration and Weaning Age Affects Replacement Beef Heifer Performance

Sixty-four Simmental heifer calves were utilized in a 2 × 2 factorial treatment arrangement designed to determine the effects of weaning age and supplemental feed CP concentration on performance, reproduction, and milk production of heifer calves reared as replacements. Weaning occurred at an average of 89 ± 1.6 d of age (early weaning; EW) or 232 ± 1.8 d of age (normal weaning; NW); supplemental diets were either 12 or 17% CP. A weaning age × supplemental feed interaction (P 0.15) first or second lactation milk production and calf performance. The influence of supplemental feed CP concentration on heifer performance is dependent on weaning age; however, reproduction and milk production were not affected. Early weaning reduced heifer BW until breeding and increased percentage of pubertal replacements at an early age without influencing milk production.
Simulation-based Design and Validation of Automated Contingency Management for Propulsion Systems

Automated contingency management (ACM), or the ability to confidently and autonomously adapt to fault and/or contingency conditions with the goal of still achieving mission objectives, can be considered the ultimate technological goal of a health management system. To establish confidence on the ACM system, objective performance evaluations should be executed. The need for verification and validation (V&V) techniques for ACM has also been specifically identified by DOD agencies and within the NASA community recently. This paper presents a general process and related techniques for developing and validating ACM systems for advanced propulsion systems. A novel ACM modeling paradigm, optimization-based ACM strategies, V&V approaches and performance metrics are developed. While some well-established formal methods such as model checking techniques are applicable to some sub-problems, this research has been more focused on innovative informal methods that attempt to address ACM performance requirements, optimality, robustness, etc. A pressure fed, monopropellant propulsion system for a small space flight vehicle is utilized as initial proof-of-concept implementation for the proposed techniques and preliminary simulation results are presented.
Mixed Interior Penalty Discontinuous Galerkin Methods for Fully Nonlinear Second Order Elliptic and Parabolic Equations in High Dimensions

This article is concerned with developing efficient discontinuous Galerkin methods for approximating viscosity (and classical) solutions of fully nonlinear second-order elliptic and parabolic partial differential equations (PDEs) including the Monge–Ampere equation and the Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman equation. A general framework for constructing interior penalty discontinuous Galerkin (IP-DG) methods for these PDEs is presented. The key idea is to introduce multiple discrete Hessians for the viscosity solution as a means to characterize the behavior of the function. The PDE is rewritten in a mixed form composed of a single nonlinear equation paired with a system of linear equations that defines multiple Hessian approximations. To form the single nonlinear equation, the nonlinear PDE operator is replaced by the projection of a numerical operator into the discontinuous Galerkin test space. The numerical operator uses the multiple Hessian approximations to form a numerical moment which fulfills consistency and g-monotonicity requirements of the framework. The numerical moment will be used to design solvers that will be shown to help the IP-DG methods select the “correct” solution that corresponds to the unique viscosity solution. Numerical experiments are also presented to gauge the effectiveness and accuracy of the proposed mixed IP-DG methods.
Network centric improvements to resource caching

Network bandwidth is a precious commodity in the information age. One would be hard-pressed to cite an example of an industry, hobby, or effort that could not benefit, in some way, from a communication network. The ability to minimize the allocation time for communication channels within a network is one of the primary concerns of the network administrator. Network resource caching is one technique that may be used to reduce channel allocation time. Therefore, improvements to the standard cache management algorithms are an important component of achieving this goal. This study demonstrates the potential benefit of the time distance indexing factor (TDIF) cache replacement algorithm over a traditional technique, least recently used (LRU), in reducing communication channel allocation time. The benefit of this technique translates into an increase in the effective bandwidth of the network.
A Low-Order DGPS-Based Vehicle Positioning System Under Urban Environment

The vehicle positioning system is a key component in functions such as vehicle guidance, driver alert and assistance, and vehicle automation. Since installing a low-cost global positioning system (GPS) or inertial navigation system (INS) unit is becoming a common practice in vehicle applications, its involvement in vehicle guidance and vehicle safety deserves a closer investigation. Typical vehicle applications require high reliability, low cost, and sufficient accuracy under all operational conditions. For GPS-based positioning, urban driving with its complicated maneuvers, frequent GPS blockage, and multipath, are some of the most difficult driving environments. This paper explores the feasibility of a low-order vehicle positioning system functioning under an urban environment. The equipped vehicle has a midrange differential GPS (DGPS) unit and few relatively simple in-vehicle sensors. A low-order integration is explored by utilizing a vehicle model-based extended Kalman filter (EKF) to incorporate in-vehicle motion sensors and to largely avoid direct integration of INS signals. Further, the characteristics of DGPS measurements under urban environments are investigated, and novel DGPS noise processing techniques are proposed to reduce the chances of exposing the EKF to undesirable DGPS measurements due to common DGPS problems such as blockage and multipath. A resulting fourth order EKF based positioning system is successfully implemented in the test vehicle to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed design. Experimental results illustrate the ability of the system to meet the accuracy and robustness requirements in the presence of blockage and multipath under a typical urban driving environment
Recovery of parametric models from range images: the case for superquadrics with global deformations

A method for recovery of compact volumetric models for shape representation of single-part objects in computer vision is introduced. The models are superquadrics with parametric deformations (bending, tapering, and cavity deformation). The input for the model recovery is three-dimensional range points. Model recovery is formulated as a least-squares minimization of a cost function for all range points belonging to a single part. During an iterative gradient descent minimization process, all model parameters are adjusted simultaneously, recovery position, orientation, size, and shape of the model, such that most of the given range points lie close to the model's surface. A specific solution among several acceptable solutions, where are all minima in the parameter space, can be reached by constraining the search to a part of the parameter space. The many shallow local minima in the parameter space are avoided as a solution by using a stochastic technique during minimization. Results using real range data show that the recovered models are stable and that the recovery procedure is fast. >
Chronic traumatic encephalopathy and risk of suicide in former athletes

Background In the initial autopsy case studies of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), some researchers have concluded that the proteinopathy associated with CTE is the underlying cause of suicidality and completed suicide in former athletes. Methods A review of the literature on contact sports and risk of completed suicide revealed only one epidemiological study with direct relevant data. Results There are no published cross-sectional, epidemiological or prospective studies showing a relation between contact sports and risk of suicide. One published epidemiological study suggests that retired National Football League players have lower rates of death by suicide than the general population. Outside of sports, there is a mature body of evidence suggesting that the causes of suicide are complex, multifactorial and difficult to predict in individual cases. Conclusions Future research might establish a clear causal connection between the proteinopathy of CTE and suicide. At present, however, there is insufficient scientific evidence to conclude that there is a strong causal relationship between the presence of these proteinopathies and suicide in former athletes. Additional research is needed to determine the extent to which the neuropathology of CTE is a possible mediator or moderator variable associated with suicide.
Further Remarks on First Conjunct Agreement

Aoun, Benmamoun, and Sportiche (ABS, 1994) propose an analysis of first conjunct agreement in VS sentences in Lebanese Arabic and Moroccan Arabic. On the basis of the distribution of number-sensitive items, they argue that this type of agreement is due to clausal coordination. Munn (1999) argues against ABS's account and proposes that first conjunct agreement in the Arabic dialects arises because coordination of NP subjects is semantically plural but syntactically singular. In this reply we show that Munn's alternative analysis is empirically inadequate.
Association of Physical Activity and Vascular Stiffness in 70- to 79-Year-Olds: The Health ABC Study

Although it is well established that stiff blood vessels contribute to systolic hypertension and increased cardiovascular disease with aging, risk factors for vascular stiffness are still being defined. The Health, Aging, and Body Composition study is a longitudinal investigation of the determinants of physical-functional decline in a well-functioning biracial cohort of 3,075 men and women, age 70–79, in Pittsburgh, PA, and Memphis, TN. Aortic pulse-wave velocity (APWV), an index of vascular stiffness, was measured in 2,488 participants. Self-reported physical activity and exercise habits and fitness/walking endurance were also assessed. Moderate or greater physical activity, exercise, and fitness variables were independently associated with less vascular stiffness, even after inclusion of heart rate, visceral fat, and other correlates of APWV. Physical activity’s association with APWV was particularly strong when levels of physical activity were quite low, suggesting that a minimal amount of physical act...
Interfacial delamination and fatigue life estimation of 3D solder bumps in flip-chip packages

Detailed three-dimensional finite element analysis was carried out for area-array solder-bumped flip-chip packages. The analysis enabled determinations of accurate three-dimensional effects on stress distributions as well as local fracture behaviors under thermal load. The 3D analysis also estimated thermal fatigue life of solder bumps. Since dimensions of various components span more than three orders of magnitude, the multi-scale finite element models were utilized to elucidate detailed deformation state near solder bumps. The global-local approach identified of critical solder bumps due to the overall deformation and investigated of interfacial delamination at microstructural level. The local model contained a single solder bump and sub-micron UBM layers. The two-step modeling approach enabled accurate fracture analysis otherwise difficult in large 3D models. Our analysis found the crack driving force and preferred delamination direction based on the 3D J -integral calculations. Shear deformations within and surrounding solder bump connectors were also investigated. The results revealed higher deformation in the 3D model than those predicted from 2D models. Additionally, the strain components were different. This has an important implication on the plastic flow characteristics during cyclic loading. Our model estimated about 25% greater steady-state shear strains in the 3D model than those in the 2D models. This result suggests a much shorter fatigue life than that based on the 2D analysis.
Mining expertise and interests from social media

The rising popularity of social media in the enterprise presents new opportunities for one of the organization's most important needs--expertise location. Social media data can be very useful for expertise mining due to the variety of existing applications, the rich metadata, and the diversity of user associations with content. In this work, we provide an extensive study that explores the use of social media to infer expertise within a large global organization. We examine eight different social media applications by evaluating the data they produce through a large user survey, with 670 enterprise social media users. We distinguish between two semantics that relate a user to a topic: expertise in the topic and interest in it and compare these two semantics across the different social media applications.
HIV-associated nephropathy: a diagnosis in evolution

HIV-1 associated nephropathy (HIVAN) is a clinical and renal histological disease characterized by the presence of heavy proteinuria associated with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis and microcystic tubular dilatation. These renal lesions lead to renal enlargement and rapid progression to kidney failure. People from African ancestry show a unique susceptibility to develop HIVAN. The study by Wearne and colleagues, which includes the largest group of patients of African ancestry with HIVAN studied so far, describes a novel renal histological variant of HIVAN, and suggests that antiretroviral therapies improve the clinical outcome of all HIV-associated renal diseases. These findings, when interpreted in the context of recent advances in our understanding of the molecular pathogenesis and genetics of HIVAN, will facilitate the recognition of all clinical variants of HIVAN as well the planning of better screening, prevention, and treatment programs for all HIV nephropathies.
CLL = (L, L; 0, 0) measurements and a structure due to a P partial wave in the pp system

Measurements of CLL of pp elastic scattering near θc.m. = 90° at thirteen energies between 300 and 800 MeV are reported. These, together with previous values of CNN, are used to extract values of two quantities, ƒs and ƒt, which contain only spin-singlet and only coupled spin-triplet partial waves, respectively. The ƒs curve, which is not dependent on CLL, exhibits the behavior expected for the previously conjectured 1D2 resonance. The ƒt curve also exhibits a resonance-like behavior, which could be due either to the 3P0 or the 3P2 partial wave.
A neural network approach for user modeling

A neural network approach to user modeling is proposed in the context of information retrieval. User level of expertise and the inquiry interests underlying the goals are considered as two major factors affecting information provision. A prototype system, UM-net, is presented for modeling user domain experiences and the inquiry interests and tailoring the descriptions about software packages provided to a user. >