cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Perioperative and long-term outcomes after percutaneous thrombectomy of arteriovenous dialysis access grafts.

Abstract Objective Maintenance of functional arteriovenous grafts (AVGs) for dialysis is difficult secondary to low primary patency, need for reinterventions, and limited alternative dialysis access options. We assessed our experience with percutaneous thrombectomy for treatment of occluded AVGs. Methods We performed a retrospective analysis of all percutaneous thrombectomies for AVGs from 2015 to 2017. These were generally performed using mechanical thrombectomy and occasional chemical tissue plasminogen activator thrombolysis, over-the-wire balloon embolectomy for inflow, and adjunctive inflow and outflow interventions as necessary. Perioperative outcomes, long-term patency, reinterventions, and need for new permanent access placement were analyzed. Results There were 218 percutaneous thrombectomies performed on 86 AVGs in 77 patients. Approximately half (53.2%) of the patients were male and 68.8% were black. Mean age was 61.1 ± 13.0 years. At the time of thrombectomy, 73.8% underwent venous outflow interventions and 4.5% underwent arterial inflow interventions. Within 30 days, 24.8% of declotted grafts underwent repeated percutaneous thrombectomy, 14.3% required tunneled dialysis catheter placement, 4% developed minor access site or graft infections, and one patient underwent surgical arterial thrombectomy for arm ischemia. There were no venous thromboembolic, cardiopulmonary, or cerebrovascular complications or clinically significant pulmonary embolism. At 1 year and 3 years after percutaneous thrombectomy, freedom from repeated thrombosis was 37% and 18%, respectively, and freedom from new dialysis access placement was 66% and 51%, respectively. Overall patient survival was 82% at 3 years. Conclusions Percutaneous thrombectomy of AVGs is safe and is associated with acceptable patency rates. This minimally invasive method extends AVG use for these high-risk patients with limited dialysis access options.
Chapter 3 – SysML Introduction

The most common model language to use for MBSE is SysML. While SysML is a highly capable language, it is also fairly complex. This chapter provides an overview of the core parts of SysML that provide most of the benefits of SysML for systems engineers. SysML is derived from the UML language and most of its features are directly reused from the UML. However, the system extends the UML using built-in extension mechanisms (stereotypes, tagged values, model libraries, and profiles) to add new modeling elements, rename some existing elements to a more relevant nomenclature, add new diagrams, and include standard definitions and types common to systems engineering. This chapter presents the basic SysML diagrams—Package, Requirements, Block Definition, Internal Block, Activity, State, Sequence, Use Case and Parametric—along with the important elements that can be placed on those diagrams, rules of construction, and basic semantics. The chapter also provides some modeling guidance, such as recommendations for organizing models effectively, that go beyond just an exposition on the SysML standard. More detailed specific semantics used in the book are described in the chapters that use them as needed.
Reproducibility of geometric and flow-based echocardiographic measurements used for quantification of left ventricular total and forward stroke volume in healthy dogs.

Abstract Background Cardiac structure and function in dogs are commonly assessed using echocardiography. A variety of linear, area, and flow-based measurements can be used to calculate left ventricular (LV) total stroke volume (TSV) and forward stroke volume (FSV), but the reproducibility of many of these measurements has not been fully studied. We hypothesized that survey of echocardiographic variables would identify those with high reproducibility and inform future investigation of different methods to measure LV TSV and FSV. Methods The reproducibility of 25 geometric and flow-based echocardiographic measurements was prospectively evaluated in 23 healthy dogs by two experienced observers. Reproducibility (i.e., interobserver agreement) was described using intraclass correlation coefficients. The reproducibility of various methods to calculate LV TSV and FSV was explored. Results Reproducibility was generally good to excellent. Variables of LV width, length, and area and aortic and sinotubular junction diameter and velocity time integral were among measures with the highest reproducibility. Measurements of mitral annular diameter and mitral inflow velocity time integral possessed lower reproducibility. Calculation of LV TSV using measurements involved in the cube and bullet formulas demonstrated higher reproducibility than the Simpson's method of disks or mitral inflow methods. Calculation of LV FSV using LV outflow tract and aortic diameters from the right parasternal view generally demonstrated higher reproducibility compared with the left-sided view. Conclusions The reproducibility of many simple geometric and flow-based echocardiographic measurements is high. Comparison of the reliability of different measurement informs future investigation of echocardiographic methods to determine LV TSV and FSV in dogs.
Loss of POLR1D results in embryonic lethality prior to blastocyst formation in mice

In eukaryotic cells, RNA polymerase (Pol) I and Pol III are dedicated to the synthesis of ribosomal RNA precursors and a variety of small RNAs, respectively. Although RNA Pol I and Pol III complexes are crucial for the regulation of cell growth and cell cycle in all cell types, many of the components of the Pol I and Pol III complexes have not been functionally characterized in mammals. Here, we provide the first in vivo functional characterization of POLR1D, a subunit shared by RNA Pol I and Pol III, during early mammalian embryo development. Our results show that Polr1d mutant embryos cannot be recovered at E7.5 early post-gastrulation stage, suggesting failed implantation. Although Polr1d mutants can be recovered at E3.5, they exhibit delayed/stalled development with morula morphology rather than differentiation into blastocysts. Even with extended time in culture, mutant embryos fail to form blastocysts and eventually die. Analysis of E3.0 embryos revealed severe DNA damage in Polr1d mutants. Additionally, lineage assessment reveals that trophectoderm specification is compromised in the absence of Polr1d. In summary, these findings demonstrate the essential role of POLR1D during early mammalian embryogenesis and highlight cell-lethal phenotype without Polr1d function.
Understanding i-Tree: summary of programs and methods

i-Tree is a suite of computer software tools developed through a collaborative publicprivate partnership. These tools are designed to assess and value the urban forest resource, understand forest risk, and develop sustainable forest management plans to improve environmental quality and human health. This report provides details about the underlying methods and calculations of these tools, as well their potential limitations. Also discussed are the history of i-Tree, its future goals, and opportunities to facilitate new science and international collaboration. The appendixes can be accessed through the links below. Appendix 1: i-Tree Staff and Collaborators Appendix 2: i-Tree Links Appendix 3: Shading Coefficients Appendix 4: Conversion Factors for Leaf Area to Biomass Appendix 5: Conversion Factors for Shrub Volume to Biomass Appendix 6: Invasive Plant Species Appendix 7: Compensatory Value of Trees Appendix 8: Average Energy Costs Appendix 9: Energy Conservation Estimates for Buildings in non-U.S. Countries Appendix 10: New Biomass Equations Appendix 11: Wood Density Values Appendix 12: Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) Emission Rates Appendix 13: Equations for Tree Height, Crown Height, and Crown Width Appendix 14: Partial List of Publications Referencing i-Tree Tools
The role of pericytes in hyperemia-induced capillary de-recruitment following stenosis

The microvascular capillary network is ensheathed by cells called pericytes—a heterogeneous population of mural cells derived from multiple lineages. Pericytes play a multifaceted role in the body, including in vascular structure and permeability, regulation of local blood flow, immune and wound healing functions, induction of angiogenesis, and generation of various progenitor cells. Here, we consider the role of pericytes in capillary de-recruitment, a pathophysiologic phenomenon that is observed following hyperemic stimuli in the presence of a stenosis and attenuates the hyperemic response. We discuss recent observations that conclusively demonstrate pericytes to be the cellular structures that contract in response to hyperemic stimuli when an upstream arterial stenosis is present. This response constricts capillaries, which is likely aimed at maintaining capillary hydrostatic pressure, an important factor in tissue homeostasis. Nonetheless, the ensuing attenuation of the hyperemic response can lead to a decrease in energy supply and negatively impact tissue health. Therapeutics aimed at preventing pericyte-mediated capillary de-recruitment may prove beneficial in conditions such as coronary stenosis and peripheral arterial disease by reducing restriction in hyperemic flow. Identification of the pericyte subtypes involved in this de-recruitment and the underlying molecular mechanisms regulating this process will greatly assist this purpose.
Signatures of a Deconfined Phase Transition on the Shastry-Sutherland Lattice: Applications to Quantum Critical SrCu 2 ( BO 3 ) 2

A realistic model of a 2D quantum magnet may exhibit a deconfined quantum critical point---a long-sought type of phase transition---that could present itself as a unique signature in phonon and magnon spectra.
Operative costs associated with arthroscopic assisted open reduction and internal fixation of acute ankle fractures

Abstract Background Ankle fractures are a common orthopedic injury that frequently involves associated cartilage lesions, soft tissue damage, and a significant inflammatory burden. Despite studies revealing intra-articular pathology in up to 79% of ankle fractures, only 1% of open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) procedures undergo arthroscopic evaluation. The primary purpose of this study was to determine the cost effectiveness of ankle arthroscopy performed at time of ORIF for ankle fracture. Methods An IRB approved retrospective review of patients who sustained ankle fractures and underwent ORIF with and without concomitant arthroscopic surgery between 2015 and 2020 were investigated. Patient demographics, fracture characteristics, outcomes, and cost data were collected and analyzed. Results There were 567 total ORIF and 28 ORIF and scope included for cost analysis purposes. Total surgical costs averaged $6,537.62 and $6,886.46 for the ORIF only and ORIF and scope procedures respectively. Total direct costs, including operating room time, for the same procedures were found to average $6,212.34 and $7,312.10 for the ORIF only and ORIF and scope procedures respectively. The cost difference between the ORIF only and with arthroscopy was not statistically significant (p = 0.1174). Twelve of the 28 arthroscopic patients (42.86%) had grade 3 or full thickness chondral lesions, and 11/28 (39.28%) arthroscopic patients were found to have grade 1–2 cartilage changes. Conclusion In the acute treatment of ankle fractures, concurrent arthroscopic evaluation does not add a significant cost to the procedure and may result in improved short and long term benefits for the patient. With improved arthroscopic efficiency, the cost differential can be further reduced. LOE IV.
Bladder Cancer Screening, Signs and Symptoms, and Workup

Despite the frequency of bladder cancer as the fourth most common cancer in men in the USA, there is insufficient data to recommend screening of the general population to detect bladder cancer prior to symptoms. Yet, several small trials of patients at increased risk for bladder cancer have identified cancers at an earlier stage, potentially improving survival. Most patients with bladder cancer will have gross or microscopic hematuria, with other common symptoms including frequency and urgency. An evaluation for bladder cancer includes cystoscopy and imaging of the kidneys and ureters. In the future, a risk-stratified approach for screening and evaluation may improve the specificity of screening and potentially improve survival of patients with bladder cancer.
An assessment of pulmonary function testing and ventilatory kinematics by optoelectronic plethysmography

New advances in computer processing and imaging have allowed the development of innovative techniques to assess lung function. A promising methodology is optoelectronic plethysmography (OEP). OEP evaluates ventilatory kinematics through the use of infrared imaging. Markers are placed, and images read on the chest, back and abdomen of subjects. Currently, this system is used mainly in research settings, but in the future may have broad applicability to patient populations such as very young children, patients with neuromuscular disease and patients who cannot be tested with classical spirometry testing. This paper presents the history and development of OEP, along with a summary of the OEP methodology, a discussion of research findings and results to date, as well as application and limitations.
Twin pregnancies in the service of the chicago lying-in hospital

Abstract Three hundred and thirty-four multiple pregnancies occurred in 31,131 total deliveries, an incidence of one in 93.4 for twins, and one in 15,514 for triplets. The average birth weight is 2,391 Gm. for an infant which is one of twins and 3,405 Gm. for other infants born in this hospital. The average length of gestation is 256 days in twin pregnancies, 281 days in all other pregnancies in this hospital. The combined fetal and neonatal death rate for 660 reportable twin infants is 13.3 per cent; for twin infants over 1,000 Gm. it is 8.4 per cent. The total hospital mortality for reportable births is 4.4 per cent. The incidence of hypertensive, pre-eclamptic and eclamptic toxemia among twins is more than three times that found in single pregnancies. Prematurity is the outstanding cause of death in twin infants. Maternal complications are probably not an important factor in producing fetal death. In this series the second born twin does not appear to have an increased birth hazard.
Parvalbumin Interneurons: All Forest, No Trees

There has been a surge of interest in how inhibitory neurons influence the output of local circuits in the brain. In this issue of Neuron, Scholl et al. (2015) provide a compelling argument for what one class of inhibitory neurons actually does.
Stability of Dithered Feedback System Whose Nonlinearity Exhibits Hysteresis

We study the effects of dither on the nonlinear element of a SISO nonlinear feedback system. He consider nonlinearities with memory (hysteresis, backlash), in the feedforward loop; a dither of a given amplitude is injected at the input of the nonlinearity. The nonlinearity is followed by a linear element with low pass characteristic. The stability of the dithered system and an approximate equivalent system (in which the nonlinearity is a smooth function) are compared. Conditions on the input and on the dither frequency are obtained so that the approximate-system. stability guarantees that of the given hysteretic system.
Scanning electron microscopy of human placental villi from early and late in gestation.

Abstract Human placental villi from term placentas and from 10 to 14 week placentas were examined in the scanning electron microscope (SEM) after critical point drying. When prepared by this method, the syncytial surface appears covered with slender microvilli similar to those seen in transmission electron micrographs. We find no support in our observations for the suggestion that the trophoblastic surface is a mosaic of microvillous and non-microvillous areas or that substantial areas lack microvilli. In addition, the villi often show circumferentially oriented furrows. SEM's of the early placentas showed numerous syncytial sprouts, most of which represent stages in the formation of new free or terminal villi.
Advances in Tunneled Central Venous Catheters for Dialysis: Design and Performance

Over 70% of patients initiating chronic hemodialysis in the United States have a tunneled central venous catheter (CVC) for dialysis as their first blood access device. Tunneled CVC have requirements that are unparalleled by other access devices: high blood flow rates at moderate pressure drops without obstruction, minimal trauma to the vein, resistance to occlusion by fibrous sheathing, prevention of infection, avoidance of clotting, biocompatibility, avoidance of lumen collapse and kinking and breaks, resistance to antiseptic agents, placement with minimal trauma, and radiopaque appearance on X-ray. This publication reviews the numerous designs for tunneled CVC and evaluates the advantages and disadvantages of each design. A catheter that self-centers in the superior vena cava (Centros) is described, along with early clinical results. Current challenges and future directions for tunneled CVC for dialysis are discussed, included means to diminish catheter-related infections, catheter tip clotting, fibrous sheathing, central venous stenosis, and external component bulk.
Performance weight adjustment for iterative cautious control design

Research in control design on the basis of identified models has lead to many iterative algorithms where performance weights in a control objective function are determined a-priori and remain fixed in order to evaluate performance improvement during iterations. This paper considers the case where performance weights are adjusted in iterative identification and control schemes where performance robustness is maintained during each iteration to yield a cautious control design. In order to adjust performance weights, a nominal model along with uncertainty description obtained from a system identification procedure are used to adjust the performance weighting function conjointly with robust control synthesis. A framework is developed for measuring performance comparison between iterations which allows adjustment of the performance weights during the iterative cautious control design.
Favor Short Dependencies: Parsing with Soft and Hard Constraints on Dependency Length

Many modern parsers identify the head word of each constituent they find. This makes it possible to identify the word-to-word dependencies implicit in a parse. Some parsers, known as dependency parsers, even return these dependencies as their primary output. Why bother to identify dependencies? The typical reason is to model the fact that some word pairs are more likely than others to engage in a dependency relationship.
MAPPING OF THE PROTEINASE B STRUCTURAL GENE PRB1, IN SACCHAROMYCES CEREVISIAE AND IDENTIFICATION OF NONSENSE ALLELES WITHIN THE LOCUS

We report the mapping of the structural gene for proteinase B, PRB1. It is located 1.1 cM proximal to CAN1 on the left arm of chromosome V of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We have identified 34 amber and 12 ochre mutations among the 126 prb1 mutations in our collection.
Histopathological and clinical analysis of chronic rhinosinusitis by subtype

Background Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) encompasses diverse phenotypic expression. Clinical and histological differences suggest 4 CRS subtypes: eosinophilic CRS with and without nasal polyps (eCRSwNP, eCRSsNP, respectively) and non-eosinophilic CRS with and without nasal polyps (neCRSwNP, neCRSsNP, respectively). The mucosal basement membrane (BM) and cilia are believed to play roles in CRS pathogenesis by impacting mucociliary clearance and immune barriers. This study aimed to identify clinical, surgical, and histopathological subtype differences to further elucidate disease mechanisms. Methods Ethmoid tissue from 33 adult CRS patients and 7 controls was obtained during endoscopic sinus or other sinonasal surgery (controls) and analyzed by light and transmission electron microscopy for BM thickness and presence of cilia. CRS patients were categorized into the 4 subtypes, and 22-item Sinonasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) score, endoscopy, computed tomography (CT), and surgical data were compared and analyzed for association with histopathology measures. Results CRS subtypes could be distinguished by CT score and surgical data, with eCRSwNP patients exhibiting greatest disease severity. Whereas eosinophilia was associated with absence of cilia, nasal polyposis showed no association with surgical or histopathological measures. No significant difference in BM thickness was found between controls and CRS subtypes, but distinctions were found regarding cilia, which were less common in eosinophilic subgroups compared to controls and neCRSsNP patients. Conclusion CRS subtypes exhibit some differentiating histopathological and surgical features. The absence of cilia appears to have an important role in the eosinophilic subgroups. Further histologic evaluation is warranted to evaluate for possible subtype-specific treatment targets or prognostic markers.
Imaging of the Male Urethra

The most common methods for imaging the male urethra are retrograde urethrography (RUG) and voiding cystourethrography (VCUG). In order to formulate a proper management plan, an accurate and well executed study is essential to determine stricture presence, number, location, degree and length. Conventional urethrography is performed under fluoroscopy with the hip tilted and the penis placed on slight stretch. Inadequate oblique images will underestimate “true” stricture length. VCUG is most valuable for assessing the posterior urethra, the proximal extent of stenoses, and their functional significance. Other modalities, such as MRI, CT and sonourethrography have an important, yet limited role in urethral evaluation. MRI has particular value in evaluating the pelvic fracture patient with associated urethral disruption injury. Sonourethrography is particularly accurate at determining true bulbar urethral stricture length. Detailed here-in are such imaging techniques and the imaging characteristics of both the normal and abnormal male urethra.
Weak complementarity, path independence, and the intuition of the Willig condition

Abstract Weak complementarity is usually invoked for valuing public goods using information on private goods. However, using uncompensated demands requires a second condition, the Willig condition. This paper present an intuitive explanation of the Willig condition and shows that the alternative versions are equivalent to a path-independence condition for line integrals. This condition is fulfilled for compensated demands but not uncompensated demands except in restrictive special cases. It is shown that this is a type of quasi-homotheticity and requires that the income flexibility of quality must equal the income elasticity of the weak complement. The importance and restrictiveness of the Willig condition are shown using three alternative functional forms.
Optimization of magnetic properties of nanostructured Nd-Fe-B : Approaching ideal stoner-wohlfarth behaviour

Abstract By appropriate annealing of rapidly quenched Nd δ Fe 13.1 B (2.05 2 Fe 14 B grains in the Nd-rich matrix were systematically controlled and correlated with coercivity, μ 0 H c . For optimally annealed Nd δ Fe 13.1 B an increase in Nd concentration enhances μ 0 H c of the Nd 2 Fe 14 B grains (from 1.2 T in Nd 2.05 Fe 13.1 B to 2.75 T in Nd 147.6 Fe 13.1 B at 290 K) and promotes the growth of the Nd 2 Fe 14 B grains elongated in shape. The largest observed coercivity, H c ∼ 2.75 T is over 80% of the theoretical limit expected for Stoner-Wohlfarth coherent rotation behavior including demagnetization effects.
Reconstruction of the interosseous ligament restores normal forearm compressive load transfer in cadavers.

Purpose Longitudinal radioulnar dissociation may result when compressive load to the hand causes excessive proximal migration of the radius with interosseous ligament (IOL) disruption and radial head fracture. Although radial head salvage or arthroplasty and temporary distal radioulnar joint pinning constitute the current treatment for this injury IOL reconstruction has been proposed to restore normal forearm mechanics. To help provide a biomechanical basis for IOL reconstruction we measured load transfer and proximal migration of the radius with the IOL intact, cut, and reconstructed while leaving the radial head intact. Methods We dissected the central third of 12 normal cadaveric forearms to bone–IOL–bone. We applied 136 N of compressive load to the hand and measured proximal radial migration and 3-dimensional force vectors acting in the distal radius, distal ulna, IOL, proximal radius, and proximal ulna. Experiments were performed in neutral forearm rotation and neutral elbow varus–valgus. The protocol was repeated with the IOL intact, cut, and reconstructed with single and double flexor carpi radialis allografts. Results With the IOL intact 94% ± 3 % of hand load was in the distal radius with 75% ± 2% was transmitted to the proximal radius. With the IOL cut 92% ± 2% of hand load was in the distal radius and this was unchanged at the proximal radius. With single flexor carpi radialis reconstruction 94% ± 3% of hand load was in the distal radius and 80% ± 2% was in the proximal radius; with double flexor carpi radialis reconstruction these numbers changed to 95% ± 3% and 74% ± 2%, respectively. Forces in the forearm were mainly in the longitudinal and transverse directions with negligible components in the dorsal-volar direction. Transverse force in the IOL was about half that of the longitudinal force in the intact and reconstructed states. Conclusions When the IOL is cut and load is applied to the hand the unloading of the proximal radius and the transversely directed force that compresses normally across the proximal and distalradioulnar joints is lost. Reconstruction of the IOL can restore the normal load transfer characteristics. These data help provide a biomechanical basis for IOL reconstruction. Further research on the biomechanics of IOL reconstruction in the setting of radial head replacement along with clinical evaluation is needed.
Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM): updated review of findings, 1998¿2002

Critical incident stress management (CISM) represents a departure from earlier univariate crisis intervention strategies. CISM is a comprehensive, multicomponent, crisis intervention approach that includes preincident training, acute care interventions, and postincident response follow-up. The first review of this literature included published reports through 1997. This report covers the period from 1998-2002. A databased search revealed 20 papers of specific CISM programs or multiple interventions programs that are CISM-like in nature. These papers are reviewed and the strengths and weaknesses of the literature as a whole are presented; implications are discussed.
Neuroanatomical correlates of formal thought disorder in schizophrenia.

Introduction: We attempted to extend findings of a relationship between formal thought disorder and left superior temporal gyrus (STG) volume in schizophrenia by examining two indices of formal tho...
Scale-dependent interaction of fire and grazing on community heterogeneity in tallgrass prairie

Natural disturbances affect spatial and temporal heterogeneity in plant communities, but effects vary depending on type of disturbance and scale of analysis. In this study, we examined the effects of fire frequency (1-, 4-, and 20-yr intervals) and grazing by bison on spatial and temporal heterogeneity in species composition in tallgrass prairie plant communities. Compositional heterogeneity was estimated at 10-, 50-, and 200-m2 scales. For each measurement scale, we used the average Euclidean Distance (ED) between samples within a year (2000) to measure spatial heterogeneity and between all time steps (1993-2000) for each sample to measure temporal heterogeneity. The main effects of fire and grazing were scale independent. Spatial and temporal heterogeneity were lowest on annually burned sites and highest on infrequently burned (20-yr) sites at all scales. Grazing reduced spatial heterogeneity and increased temporal heterogeneity at all scales. The rate of community change over time decreased as fire frequency increased at all scales, whereas grazing had no effect on rate of community change over time at any spatial scale. The interactive effects of fire and grazing on spatial and temporal heterogeneity differed with scale. At the 10-m2 scale, grazing increased spatial heterogeneity in annually burned grassland but decreased heterogeneity in less frequently burned areas. At the 50-m2 scale, grazing decreased spatial heterogeneity on 4-yr burns but had no effect at other fire frequencies. At the 10-m scale, grazing increased temporal heterogeneity only on 1- and 20-yr burn sites. Our results show that the individual effects of fire and grazing on spatial and temporal heterogeneity in mesic prairie are scale independent, but the interactive effects of these disturbances on community heterogeneity change with scale of measurement. These patterns reflect the homogenizing impact of fire at all spatial scales, and the different frequency, intensity, and scale of patch grazing by bison in frequently burned vs. infrequently burned areas.
On filling cellular concavities

A theory of iterative filling of concavities of digitized blobs, based on the properties of minimum-perimeter polygons (MPP's) on a rectangular mosaic, is described. By this theory it is shown that repeated annexation of “strict concavity cells” to a concave regular cellular blob produces a finite sequence of cellular blobs which terminates at the convex cellular hull of the original cellular blob. It is shown that the order of annexing the cells and the number of cells annexed simultaneously at any stage of iteration have no effect on the final cellular blob of the sequence. This theory demonstrates the possibility of generating the digitization of the convex hull of any domain (a simply connected silhouette) by a sequence of diameterlimited algorithms whose diameters form a monotonic nondecreasing sequence.
An Alan Keyes Effect? Examining Anti-Black Sentiment Among White Evangelicals

Given its historical and contemporary importance, it is noteworthy that the relevant literature generally overlooks the role that religion and its accompanying values play in determining support for black candidates. In addressing this question, we review the historical and theological bases of evangelical attitudes toward blacks. We then present experimental results that examine evangelical attitudes toward blacks. We follow this with results from the 2006 Pennsylvania gubernatorial and U.S. Senate races to bolster the experimental findings. Finally, we discuss our findings and their implications for GOP attempts to recruit black candidates who can appeal to moderate white and black voters without losing support from the GOP’s evangelical base.
Age-related Changes in the Mechanical Properties of Human Skin

The mechanical properties of skin have been studied both in vivo and in vitro by a variety of test methods. These properties are well matched to the function of the skin, and they depend on the geometry of the collagen and elastin networks of the dermis. The time dependence of these properties is thought to be related to the "ground substance" components of the dermis. Age-related changes in the mechanical properties are a function of the degradation of the elastin network and of some as yet undefined changes in the viscoelastic properties of the "ground substance."
An Investigation of the Relationship between Emission and Scattering Signals in SSM/I Data

Abstract To provide guidance for the development of satellite microwave rainfall-retrieval algorithms, the basic relationships between emission and scattering signals in natural clouds must be understood. In this study, the relationship between two parameters observed from microwave satellite data—the polarization difference at 19 GHz D and the polarization-corrected temperature PCT—is investigated over the global ocean on a monthly and 5° (lat) × 5° (long) mean basis. Using data from January and July 1993, the occurrence frequencies and latitudinal variation and horizontal distribution of the D–PCT relationships are investigated. The D–PCT slope is studied by dividing the entire weather range into three regimes: nonprecipitation, light precipitation, and heavy precipitation. The analysis shows that small variation of PCT in the nonprecipitation regime could be achieved by employing a variable coefficient in the PCT definition equation. The slopes in the light precipitation regime are latitude dependent. ...
Identification and characterization of the interferon-β-mediated p53 signal pathway in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells

The relationship between the p53 signal pathway and the response of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) to interferon (IFN)-β has hitherto not been examined. Using an oligonucleotide microarray, we found differential expression of at least 70 genes involved in the p53 signal pathway, including p53, which regulate cell proliferation and cell death following stimulation with IFN-β. We verified our observations on a limited set of p53-regulated genes at the transcriptional and translational levels. We also examined the consequences of the activation of the p53 signal pathway by IFN-β in PBMC. When cultured in the presence of T-cell mitogens, IFN-β restricted the entry of lymphocytes from the G0/G1 phase to the S phase and reduced the number of cells in the G2 phase. The addition of IFN-β alone did not increase apoptosis. However, in the presence of actinomycin D, a DNA-damaging agent, addition of IFN-β enhanced the susceptibility of PBMC to apoptosis. These observations suggest that, in spite of the activation of a number of mutually overlapping pathways mediating cell death, cell cycle arrest was the most evident consequence of IFN-β signalling in PBMC.
A superantigen encoded in the open reading frame of the 3' long terminal repeat of mouse mammary tumour virus.

Mice express a collection of superantigens, which bind to class II major histocompatibility proteins and interact with T cells bearing particular Vβ chains as part of their αβ receptors. These super-antigens have been suggested to be encoded by exogenous or endogenous mouse mammary tumour viruses. One such superantigen is now shown to be encoded in the open reading frame of the long terminal repeat of a mammary tumour virus, a gene of previously unknown function.
The effects of a topically‐active non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug on ligature‐induced periodontal disease in the squirrel monkey

Abstract Prostaglandins are believed to be important mediators of periodontal inflammation and bone resorption. The purpose of the present blind study was to quantify clinically and histologically the effects of a topically applied non-steroidal prostaglandin synthetase inhibitor, namely a substituted oxazolopyridine derivative (SOPD), on ligature-induced periodontal disease in the squirrel monkey. For a period of 14 days, one group of ligated animals received 2 daily topical applications of the SOPD. A group receiving systemically administered indomethacin served as a positive control while a group receiving only topically applied vehicle served as a negative control. Results indicate that throughout the 14-day period of the study, the SOPD significantly inhibited gingival inflammation and loss of attachment as compared to either the placebo or indomethacin groups. Both indomethacin and the SOPD significantly inhibited bone resorption.
RFLP Genetic Similarity Estimates and Coefficient of Parentage as Genetic Variance Predictors for Soybean Yield

RFLP genetic-similarity estimates (RFLP-GS) and coefficient of parentage (CP) have been used as measures of genetic similarity within crop species. However, practical application of these measures in plant breeding remains uncertain. This study was designed to probe the utility of RFLP-GS and CP in predicting genetic variance (GV) for seed yield among inbred soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] lines. To achieve this goal, five single seed descent populations were studied, representing a range of RFLP-GS and CP between the parents from 57 to 75% and 0.06 to 0.5, respectively. The GV for yield was estimated for each population through field evaluation of 30 inbred lines per population, in two North Carolina field locations during 1994. Both RFLP-GS and CP correctly identified the population with the highest GV; however, CP predicted GV for yield more efficiently ( r CP.RFLP-Gs = 0.91*; r CP.GV = -0.81* ; and r RFLP.GS.GV = -0.58). The GV was near zero when the CP between parents was larger than 0.27 or when RFLP-GS was larger than 75%. Neither genotype x environment interaction nor low field precision were factors for the lower predictive value of RFLP-GS. Expected gains from selection agreed partially with RFLP-GS results but closely matched CP and the actual fate of populations in a USDA breeding program. These results indicated that caution should be taken in an applied soybean breeding program when crossing parents with a relationship larger than half-sib or when the RFLP-GS is larger than 75% when yield improvement is the main breeding objective.
On bending of a convex surface to a convex surface with prescribed spherical image

We prove the following theorem. LetF be a regular convex surface homeomorphic to the disk. Suppose the Gaussian curvature ofF is positive and the geodesic curvature of its boundary is positive as well. LetG be a convex domain on the unit sphere bounded by a smooth curve and strictly contained in a hemisphere. LetP be an arbitrary point on the boundary ofF andP* be an arbitrary point on the boundary ofG. If the area ofG is equal to the integral curvature of the surfaceF, then there exists a continuous bending of the surfaceF to a convex surfaceF′ such that the spherical image ofF′ coincides withG andP* is the image of the point inF′ corresponding to the pointP ∈ F under the isometry.
Symmetry groups for unit cells in solids

Two types of symmetry groups are commonly used in chemistry. Point groups are used for molecules, whereas, for solids, the 230 space groups are used. Neither of these types of symmetry groups are suitable for representing unit cells in solids, the symmetry of which is intermediate between that of point groups and space groups. To represent the symmetry of unit cells in an infinite lattice, a third type of symmetry group must be used. An algorithmic method of generating these symmetry groups is described. It can be demonstrated that these groups are valid by use of conventional symmetry group theory. This technique has been applied to the two-dimensional graphite lattice. Because the new method generates symmetry tables using only the topology of the system, the symmetry properties of graphs can also readily be derived. Last, the relationship between these groups and the other two types of groups is identified. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Comput Chem 19: 168–180, 1998
Using Telemetry Data For Video Compression On Unmanned Air Vehicles

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in the \mini" to \micro" size ranges (<6 foot wingspan) are becoming increasingly popular platforms for the collection of video data about an area of interest. Currently, mini-UAV platforms transmit video back to the end user using analog RF transmitters. Transmission of digital video, although it is more desirable on a mini-UAV platform, requires video compression to be performed. Unfortunately, determining the motion information required for digital video compression is a computationally expensive procedure. Hardware capable of performing this task is typically too heavy, too large, and too power intensive to be carried on a mini-UAV. We present an e‐cient algorithm for solving the motion estimation problem which requires far less computation, making it feasible for implementation on-board a mini-UAV. We reduce the amount of computation necessary by using (1) knowledge of camera locations (from available mini-UAV sensor data) and (2) the projective geometry of the camera. We present encouraging initial results, showing that this method reduces computations by almost two orders of magnitude compared to standard methods, and yields comparable or improved compression results.
Interactions of sensory and nonspecific thalamic inputs to cortical polysensory units in the squirrel monkey

Abstract Possible influences of nonspecific thalamocortical projections on sensory responsiveness of single units of polysensory cortex were investigated. Sensory responses in the postarcuate polysensory area (PPA) of the squirrel monkey were paired with antecedent low-frequency (10/sec) trains of stimuli applied to intralaminar nonspecific thalamic nuclei, to elicit recruiting responses indicative of activation of the nonspecific system. Recruiting responses were more prominent in the PPA than primary cortex and, in PPA units, their elicitation typically suppressed the sensory responses with which they were paired, without similarly affecting unpaired inputs to PPA. The reduction in responsiveness persisted for several minutes after the period of pairing in about one-half of the PPA units examined. Primary sensory cortical units were not similarly affected. The data suggest that nonspecific thalamic nuclei project more strongly to polysensory than to primary sensory cortex and that these projections may have the capacity to modulate selectively the responsiveness of polysensory units to peripheral inputs. Possible implications of such plasticity concerning learning are discussed.
The emergence of cosmopolitan group cultures and its implications for cultural transition: A case study of an international student support group

Abstract The purpose of the current work is to discover how cosmopolitanism impacts cross-cultural adaptation when groups of international students build social support networks that are not divided along home and host cultural lines. Using a social constructivist epistemological approach and qualitative methods such as participant observation and interviewing, a two-and-a-half year ethnography is described that includes the formation, activities, and impacts that this group has on the adaptation processes of its members. The results reconceptualize the construct of cosmopolitanism, indicating that such a framework provides an accurate description of a multinational, multicultural social support network for internationals.
Search for the 8B(2+) → 8Be(0+) ground-state transition

Neutrinos arising from 8 B β decay dominate the solar neutrino spectrum above 5 MeV, and primarily consist of neutrinos from the 8 (2 + )→ 8 Be(2 + ) transition. Two other processes, 3 He+p and 8 B(2 + ) → 8 Be(0 + ) ground state second-forbidden decay, may also contribute to the solar neutrino flux in this energy region. Knowledge of the relative strengths of these three processes is important for accurate solar neutrino spectral shape measurements. We are attempting to measure the branching ratio of the 8 B(2 + ) → 8 Be(0 + ) ground state transition using an 8 B radioactive beam.
Kinetic moments method for the canonical ensemble distribution

Simultaneous integral control of the kinetic energy 〈K〉 and its fluctuation 〈K2〉 - 〈K〉2 gives an extended phase-space distribution consistent with Gibbs' canonical one. This generalization of the Nose-Hoover approach to thermostatting is the simplest time-reversible scheme to exhibit ergodicity for the one-dimensional harmonic oscillator. It is also applicable to equilibrium and nonequilibrium many-body simulations.
Distrust of Employers, Collectivism, and Union Efficacy

This study examines relations between indicators of knowledge work and worker attitudes toward employers, collective action, and union efficacy. Previous writing on these relations are used to develop hypotheses. Data are drawn from the 2009 Young Workers Survey. Results fail to show any statistically significant main effect relations between knowledge work indicators and the worker attitudes examined, despite a sample size sufficient to detect at least medium effect sizes. Further, there is very limited support for moderator effects. A discussion section discusses limitations, implications, and issues for future research.
Reduction of heat capacity and phonon group velocity in silicon nanowires

We report on ab initio linear-response calculations of lattice vibrations in narrow silicon nanowires on the order of 1 nm along the [001], [011], and [111] growth directions. The confinement and nanowire structure substantially alter phonon distributions, resulting in an 15% to 23% reduction in heat capacity and an averaged decrease of 31% in acoustic velocities compared with bulk silicon. Based on these, we estimate an improvement up to 4 fold on thermoelectric performance due solely to the modified lattice vibrations in narrow silicon nanowires over bulk silicon.
Manganese Utilization in the Chick: Effects of Corn, Soybean Meal, Fish Meal, Wheat Bran, and Rice Bran on Tissue Uptake of Manganese

Abstract Experiments were conducted with young chicks to investigate the effect of various feed ingredients on manganese (Mn) bioavailability. Crossbred chicks were fed a Mn-deficient casein-dextrose diet supplemented with corn, soybean meal (SBM), fish meal (FM), wheat bran (WB), or rice bran (RB). Although these feed ingredients contain significant quantities of Mn, dietary addition of all five ingredients consistently depressed Mn deposition in key tissues (bone, gallbladder, and pancreas) of chicks fed excess inorganic Mn (1000 mg/kg provided as MnSO4 · H2 O). Corn, SBM, FM, and WB also reduced tissue Mn levels at the chick’s minimal dietary Mn requirement (14 mg/kg) when fed a casein-dextrose diet. In fact, as little as 1.0% WB, 2.5% FM, and 5.0% of a corn-SBM combination were capable of markedly reducing tissue Mn concentrations. Rice bran, however, appeared to provide bioavailable Mn when added to diets containing a level of Mn at or below the chick’s requirement.
On spherically invariant random processes (Corresp.)

It is shown that a random process is spherically invariant if and only if it is equivalent to a zero-mean Gaussian process multiplied by an independent random variable. Several properties of spherically invariant random processes follow in a simple and direct fashion from this representation.
The balancing act of choosing nonblocking features

What is nonblocking progress? Consider the simple example of incrementing a counter C shared among multiple threads. One way to do so is by protecting the steps of incrementing C by a mutual exclus...
ToF atom-probe fim study of LaB6 single crystals

Abstract The field evaporation mass spectra of LaB 6 are obtained with time-of-flight atom-probe field ion microscope in vacuum and in the presence of hydrogen, nitrogen and oxygen. The spectra are consistent with a preferential chemisorption of these gases on boron sites.
Total synthesis and biological evaluation of marinopyrrole A and analogs

A five-step total synthesis of the antibiotic marinopyrrole A (1) is described. The developed synthetic technology enabled the synthesis of several marinopyrrole A analogs whose antibacterial properties against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus TCH1516 were evaluated.
Broadband omnidirectional antireflection coatings optimized by genetic algorithm

An optimized graded-refractive-index (GRIN) antireflection (AR) coating with broadband and omnidirectional characteristics—as desired for solar cell applications—designed by a genetic algorithm is presented. The optimized three-layer GRIN AR coating consists of a dense TiO2 and two nanoporous SiO2 layers fabricated using oblique-angle deposition. The normal incidence reflectance of the three-layer GRIN AR coating averaged between 400 and 700 nm is 3.9%, which is 37% lower than that of a conventional single-layer Si3N4 coating. Furthermore, measured reflection over the 410-740 nm range and wide incident angles 40°-80° is reduced by 73% in comparison with the single-layer Si3N4 coating, clearly showing enhanced omnidirectionality and broadband characteristics of the optimized three-layer GRIN AR coating.