cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abstract 25: Carotid Plaque Thickness, Stenosis, Ulceration, Age And Male Sex Optimally Predict Carotid Intraplaque Hemorrhage

Background and Purpose: MRI-detected intraplaque hemorrhage (IPH) is associated with acute and future stroke. IPH can be detected with a high sensitivity, specificity and accuracy using heavily T1-weighted sequences such as the magnetization-prepared rapid acquisition gradient echo (MPRAGE) sequence. This sequence is not always available in screening of potential carotid sources of stroke. The purpose of this study was to determine the discriminatory power of clinical and imaging markers in predicting carotid IPH. Methods: In this retrospective cross sectional study, patients undergoing stroke workup were imaged with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and IPH detection. A total of 726 carotid plaques were imaged. Carotid imaging characteristics were recorded, including percent diameter and mm stenosis, plaque thickness, ulceration, intraluminal thrombus and IPH. Clinical confounders were recorded and a multivariable logistic regression model was fitted. Backward-elimination was used to determine essential predictors of IPH with a threshold two-sided p<.10. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to determine discriminatory value. Results: Significant predictors of carotid IPH included plaque thickness (Odds ratio, OR=2.20, p<.001), mm stenosis (OR=0.46, p<.001), ulceration (OR=4.25, p=.020), age (OR=1.11, p=.001) and male sex (OR=3.23, p=.077). Percent diameter stenosis (OR=31.0, p=.001) could be used nearly interchangeably with mm stenosis. The final model discriminatory value was excellent (Area under the curve, AUC=0.932). This was significantly higher than models using only plaque thickness (AUC=0.881), only mm stenosis (AUC=0.830) or only ulceration (AUC=0.715) p<.001. Conclusions: Optimal discrimination of carotid IPH required information on plaque thickness, mm stenosis, ulceration, age and male sex. When these factors are recorded, IPH can be predicted with a high discriminatory power. ![][1] [1]: /embed/graphic-1.gif
Welfare Analysis When Budget Constraints Are Nonlinear: The Case of Flood Hazard Reduction

Abstract Nonlinear budget constraints occur when goods have a "quality" dimension or possess "characteristics" and the price of the composite good is a nonlinear function of its characteristics. Homogeneity is generally not characteristic of indirect utility functions and demand functions when budget constraints are nonlinear. In this situation, willingness to pay methods that impose homogeneity (or fail to impose restrictions implied by nonlinear budget constraints) on demands are inappropriate. A straightforward method of estimating willingness to pay when budget constraints are nonlinear implements a direct utility approach. Exact and biased welfare measures are obtained without integration.
Assigning sensors to missions with demands

We introduce Semi-Matching with Demands (SMD), which models a certain problem in sensor networks of assigning individual sensors to sensing tasks. If there are multiple sensing tasks or missions to be accomplished simultaneously, and if sensor assignment must be exclusive, then this is a bipartite semi-matching problem. Each mission is associated with a demand value and a profit value; each sensormission pair is associated with a utility offer (possibly 0). The goal is a sensor assignment that maximizes the profits of the satisfied missions (with no credit for partially satisfied missions). SMD is NP-hard and as hard to approximate as MAXIMUM INDEPENDENT SET. Therefore we investigate less difficult constrained versions of the problem. We give a simple greedy Δ-approximation algorithm for a degree-constrained version (Δ-SMD), in which each mission receives positive utility offers from at most Δ sensors. For small Δ, we show that Δ-SMD is equivalent to k-SET PACKING (with k = Δ), which yields a polynomial-time (Δ+1)/2- approximation. For Δ = 2, we solve the problem optimally by reduction to maximum matching. Finally, we introduce a geometric version which remains strongly NP-hard but has a PTAS.
Minimal non-simple sets in 4-dimensional binary images with (8,80)-adjacency

We first give a definition of simple sets of 1’s in 4D binary images that is consistent with “(8,80)-adjacency”—i.e., the use of 8-adjacency to define connectedness of sets of 1’s and 80-adjacency to define connectedness of sets of 0’s. Using this definition, it is shown that in any 4D binary image every minimal non-simple set of 1’s must be isometric to one of eight sets, the largest of which has just four elements. Our result provides the basis for a fairly general method of verifying that proposed 4D parallel thinning algorithms preserve topology in our “(8,80)” sense. This work complements the authors’ earlier work on 4D minimal non-simple sets, which essentially used “(80,8)-adjacency”—80-adjacency on 1’s and 8-adjacency on 0’s.
An Integrative Review of Factors that Influence Breastfeeding Duration for Premature Infants after NICU Hospitalization

ABSTRACT Objective To determine what factors affect breastfeeding duration after discharge home from the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) for high‐risk mothers and their premature infants. Data Sources The electronic databases of CINAHL and PubMed were used to identify studies published in English. Date of publication did not limit inclusion in the review. Study Selection Using exclusion and inclusion criteria, 292 articles were initially assessed for relevance to the research question through abstract review. Further screening resulted in full review of 52 articles. Reference list searching added an additional six articles. Finally, in‐depth review of these 58 articles resulted in 24 studies that fully met inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data Extraction Studies were reviewed for information related to factors associated with breastfeeding duration for high‐risk mothers and preterm infants after NICU discharge home. Data Synthesis Studies were categorized into five themes, including NICU factors, feeding and soothing methods, maternal characteristics, maternal experiences, and support programs. Most significant factors affecting duration included exposure to kangaroo mother care, prenatal education, and quantity of maternal breast milk supply during the first week after discharge. Breastfeeding also was affected by maternal breastfeeding knowledge and perception of providing appropriate volumes. Conclusions Mothers face many challenges breastfeeding their premature infants after NICU discharge. Ideally, all mothers need to receive support after NICU discharge, and the transition to home can be challenging even if breastfeeding is well established. However, NICU professionals are in a perfect position to provide guidance to families so they are able to anticipate and effectively solve lactation challenges at home.
Tourism Competitiveness and the Role of Fractionalization

This study explores the impact of ethno-linguistic fractionalization on tourism competitiveness. Using the 2009 Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index, a comprehensive measure of tourism competitiveness developed by the World Economic Forum, this study provides evidence that while ethno-linguistic fractionalization negatively impacts tourism competitiveness across nations, this effect is mitigated in wealthier countries. The results suggest that policy makers operating in less developed and more fractionalized countries should make a concerted effort to enhance economic development and strengthen the institutions, infrastructure, and overall business and economic environment needed to support and foster a successful tourism industry. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Supply Chain Disruptions and the Role of Information Asymmetry

This research investigates how information asymmetry between the firm and its investors can influence supply chain disruptions. In such settings, these actors may be induced to take steps which exacerbate rather than ameliorate both the likelihood and impact of disruptions. By better understanding these mechanisms, managers and investors alike are better armed to avoid the costly consequences.
Energy of Formation for Small Molecular Clusters: (H2O)n

As is well known, there exists a great discrepency between the classical capillarity approximation and statistical mechanical treatment in defining the energy of formation of clusters. The objective of the present paper is to evaluate the energy of formation of small molecular clusters, namely (H2O)n, based on the statistical mechanical treatment.
Nondegenerate two-photon absorption spectra of organic materials

Nondegenerate two-photon absorption spectra of organic molecules have been taken using our femtosecond continuum nonlinear spectrometer. This data shows interesting structure/property relations in addition to resonance enhancement of the third-order nonlinearity which is consistent with simple models.
Demersal fish and invertebrate biomass in relation to an offshore hypoxic zone along the US West Coast

In August 2007, as part of the NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) West Coast Groundfish Bottom Trawl Survey, we examined the biomass of demersal organisms in a known hypoxic area off the Oregon coast. Although observed each summer, the intensity of hypoxia has varied annually (2002–2007) with the greatest temporal and spatial extent noted in 2006. In 2007 we identified the geographic extent of the hypoxic zone and sampled 17 stations along two depth contours (50 and 70 m) within the area. A Sea-Bird SBE 19plus equipped with a dissolved oxygen (DO) sensor was attached to the bottom trawl to monitor oxygen concentration during each tow. Bottom DO concentrations at all stations were hypoxic with means along the tow tracts ranging from 0.43 to 1.27 mL L−1. Total catch per unit effort (ln CPUE, kg hectare−1) and species diversity (number of species, N) were significantly and positively related to oxygen concentration along the hypoxic gradient. In addition, CPUE (natural log-transformed) for eight fish species and five benthic invertebrate species were significantly and positively related to bottom oxygen concentration within the hypoxic region. Condition factors for five fish species, as well as Dungeness crab (Cancer magister) increased with increased bottom oxygen levels along the hypoxic gradient. Historical catch (2003–2006) within the hypoxic zone indicates that biomass was significantly lower in 2006, the year with the lowest bottom DO levels, relative to other years.
c-Jun Is Essential for Organization of the Epidermal Leading Edge

The migration of epithelial layers requires specific and coordinated organization of the cells at the leading edge of the sheet. Mice that are conditionally deleted for the c-jun protooncogene in epidermis are born at expected frequencies, but with open eyes and with defects in epidermal wound healing. Keratinocytes lacking c-Jun are unable to migrate or elongate properly in culture at the border of scratch assays. Histological analyses in vitro and in vivo demonstrate an inability to activate EGF receptor at the leading edge of wounds, and we demonstrate that this can be rescued by supplementation with conditioned medium or the EGF receptor ligand HB-EGF. Lack of c-Jun prevents EGF-induced expression of HB-EGF, indicating that c-jun controls formation of the epidermal leading edge through its control of an EGF receptor autocrine loop.
Oxyhemoglobin saturation measurements by green spectral shift

From an analysis of new hemoglobin solution transmission spectra at various oxygen saturations (SO2), path lengths, and pH, we find the determination of SO2 by using the classical oximetry technique to be poorly calibrated. We used this data set to develop a proposed method for SO2 determination based on the spectral shift of the hemoglobin transmission minimum between 475 and 510 nm. The method does not require accurate knowledge of hemoglobin extinction coefficients and is linear in relation to SO2 despite changes in path length, pH, or hemoglobin concentration.
The hematopoietic cell transplantation specific comorbidity index and survival after extracorporeal photopheresis, pentostatin, and reduced dose total body irradiation conditioning prior to allogeneic stem cell transplantation

Hematopoietic-cell-transplantation-specific-comorbidity-index (HCT-CI) has been reported as a predictor of survival in allogeneic-transplant recipients; however its validity has recently been challenged. We evaluated the association of HCT-CI with survival of transplant recipients who underwent reduced-intensity-conditioning (RIC) with photopheresis, pentostatin, and total-body-irradiation. Median age of 103 patients selected was 55 years. Most patients (58.3%) had high (≥ 3) HCT-CI. Median OS was 298 days. Age, disease-type, disease-status, HCT-CI correlated with survival on bivariate analysis. On multivariate analysis, only HCT-CI was significantly associated with OS (low HCT-CI HR=0.29, CI 0.091-0.886; intermediate HCT-CI HR=0.41, CI 0.226-0.752). Our findings suggest HCT-CI as an independent predictor of survival in the setting of RIC transplants.
Vascular endothelial growth factor is more important than basic fibroblastic growth factor during ischemic wound healing

Objectives To test the influence of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) on normal and ischemic wounds in a noncontractive dermal ulcer standardized model in the rabbit ear and to assay the levels of both VEGF and basic fibroblastic growth factor messenger RNA levels in normal and ischemic wounds at different intervals during the healing process. Design and Interventions Dermal ulcers were created in the normal and ischemic ears of 20 anesthetized young female New Zealand white rabbits. Either VEGF 121, VEGF 165 (30 µg per wound), or buffered saline solution alone was applied to each wound and covered. Wounds were harvested at day 7 or 10 and evaluated histologically. Twenty-four similar rabbits were wounded in the same manner and their untreated wounds were harvested at 1, 3, 7, and 10 days after wounding. The wounds were analyzed with reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. Main Outcome Measures Histologic specimens were measured for amount of new epithelium and granulation tissue. Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction was used to determine basic fibroblastic growth factor and VEGF messenger RNA expression. Results Both isoforms of VEGF improved granulation tissue formation in both normal and ischemic wounds with a magnitude similar to other vulnerary agents tested in the past. Vascular endothelial growth factor application had no effect on new epithelium formation. In contrast to basic fibroblastic growth factor, VEGF messenger RNA levels were induced 4 fold by ischemia alone and 6 fold by wounding in both ischemic and normal wounds. Conclusion Vascular endothelial growth factor seems to be more important than basic fibroblastic growth factor during ischemic wound healing. Treatment of ischemic wounds with VEGF improves the deficit in wound healing produced by ischemia.
Impact of the Hawaiian High on Interannual Variations of Winter Precipitation over California

AbstractPast investigations have shown that interannual variability in winter precipitation over the western United States is related to large-scale sea level pressure fluctuations. California is adjacent to the North Pacific subtropical high, also known as the Hawaiian high. This study analyzes the relationship between interannual variations of winter precipitation in California and fluctuations in the Hawaiian high’s pressure and location. Defining objective indices to characterize the high, it is shown that precipitation in California is significantly anticorrelated with the high’s intensity. Precipitation is also shown to decrease as the high shifts southward or eastward. A linear regression model of December–March precipitation averaged over all of California with the pressure and longitude of the high as independent variables explains 43% of the precipitation variance during 1949–2012. Variation of the Hawaiian high’s pressure is the major factor impacting winter precipitation in both Northern and S...
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Keywords Bodypacker .Deferasirox .Hyperemesis .N-acetylcysteine .CannabisAaron B. Skolnik and Anne-Michelle Ruhade Bakker JK, Nanayakkara PW, Geeraedts LM Jr, deLange ES, Mackintosh MO, Bonjer HJ. Body Packers: aPlea for Conservative Treatment. Langenbecks ArchSurg. 2012 Jan; 397(1):125-30. Epub 2011 Oct 8.Background: Smuggling of drugs via internal concealment,known as “body packing,” is on the rise. Early methods ofinternal concealment relied on swallowed drug packets con-structed from available materials such as balloons and con-doms. Packet rupture was associated with high mortality.Modern drug packets are machine produced and carry alower risk of rupture. Body packers may present with non-life-threatening symptoms such as nausea or bowel obstruc-tion. The optimal approach to management of these patientsis not known.Research Question: This study aims to evaluate the effica-cyof aprotocol for diagnosis andtreatmentof body packers,including determining the need for surgical intervention.Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed overa 6-year period. Patients were identified by a recordeddiagnosis of “body packer.” All patients included in thestudy were treated according to a protocol including vitalsign monitoring, laboratory testing, and radiographs. If plainabdominal X-rays were inconclusive, a CT scan of theabdomen was performed. The study center's protocol man-dated surgical removal of drug packets for signs of drugintoxication, ileus, or persistence of drug packets in thestomach for >48 h. Surgically treated patients were com-pared to conservatively managed patients.Results: Cocaine was the most commonly found drug inboth surgically (n064) and conservatively managed (n079) patients. There was no significant difference in thenumber of packets ingested between groups. Surgicallymanaged patients had higher prevalence of abdominalpain (53 vs. 31 %) and vomiting (20 vs. 13 %) atpresentation. Sixteen percent of surgical patients devel-oped a wound infection, 16 % had a fascial dehiscence,and 8 % had both. Wound infection was associated witha longer length of hospitalization. Mean hospital lengthof stay was significantly prolonged in surgically man-aged patients (7 vs. 2 days). Comparing asymptomaticpatients who underwent surgery for packets remaining inthe stomach >48 h to those with drug packets in the stomachfor 48 vs. 48 h. Surgical treatment should be reserved for thosepatients with ileus or signs of drug intoxication.Critique: This study is limited by its retrospective nature.As a single-center study, the results may not be general-izable to different patient populations. The cutoff time of48 h to determine surgery was chosen arbitrarily. Optimaltiming of surgical intervention in asymptomatic patients isstill not certain. The ideal surgical approach to packetretrieval is unknown and the surgical method in this studywas not standardized. The authors note that wound compli-cations occurred at higher frequency than expected for lap-arotomy when compared to several references. Alternative
Optical computer architectures for supervised learning systems

Why photonic systems are attractive for machine learning is discussed. Experimental results for two examples are given. One is a perceptron and the other is an associative memory. >
Ferroelectric "Soft" Mode in KTa O 3

The far infrared reflectivity of KTa${\mathrm{O}}_{3}$ has been studied as a function of temperature from 12 to 463\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K. The results have been analyzed by means of a Kramers-Kronig method, and indicate a "soft" mode, lowering its frequency as the temperature is lowered towards the "Curie" temperature. This is in accordance with the temperature dependence of the dielectric constant interpreted through Cochran's theory.
Micromachined capacitive immersion ultrasonic transducers

In the last five years we have been actively developing capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducers (cMUT) since they have potential advantages over piezoelectric transducers, such as ease of fabrication in single elements and arrays, broad bandwidth and high efficiency. We report on research efforts in the theoretical understanding of cMUT with an improved electrical equivalent circuit model as well as its actual implementation through microfabrication. First, we present a process sequence that has allowed us to make reproducible devices with sealed membranes. The impact of electrode metalization on the impedance, bandwidth and efficiency of the devices will be discussed, and experimental results will be compared to theoretical models. Our study in the paper indicates that the best cMUT performance can be achieved with the appropriate fabrication process under certain constraints. Our most recent devices have been designed to have an input impedance with areal part of 50 Ohms at a frequency around 5 Mhz. A through transmission measurement gave a dynamic range of better than 100 dB while operating in the frequency range of 1-10 MHz. Operated without tuning, the devices are capable of operation from dc to 10s of MHz which is achieved because the devices are not resonant. In summary, we will present a novel technology capable of delivering surface micromachined ultrasonic transducers that are efficient, and easy to make single element and multiple elements array transducers. These devices can also be integrated on chip with transmitter and receiver electronics.
A benefit-cost analysis of a supported employment model for persons with psychiatric disabilities

Abstract After a review of the relevant literature, a methodology for conducting a benefit-cost analysis of an innovative supported employment intervention was developed. Several hypotheses were formulated and tested. The results indicated that, though the program did not quite achieve, it did approach cost efficiency with a ratio of almost .90 of benefits to costs. Program participants experienced significant monetary and nonmonetary benefits including a reduction in the use of several mental health services, increased wages and time in integrated employment settings. Reasons for not achieving cost benefit included the small number of subjects, system costs incurred due to increased advocacy efforts by staff, inability to quantify the intangible benefits that accrued to subjects, and the limited time frame of program operation. This analysis needs to be replicated with larger programs over a longer period of time before any definitive conclusions about the benefits of the supported employment model can be determined. The methodology presented has value for program evaluators, policymakers, and planners of supported employment services for persons with psychiatric disabilities.
"I Just Can't Stand Being Like This Anymore": Dilemmas, Stressors, and Motivators for Undocumented Mexican Women in Higher Education.

This study examines the stress factors associated with college persistence among a sample of four undocumented Mexican immigrant women from a small rural community in the Rocky Mountain region. Using Chicana feminist epistemological techniques to analyze data collected from in-depth interviews, this study yielded four major findings that include: (a) financial stressors and missed opportunities, (b) making meaning in their college degrees as undocumented immigrants, (c) coping with stress while navigating legal status, and (d) anxiety with the navigation of campus resources and climate. Recommendations for student affairs practitioners and future research are discussed.
ANTAGONISM OF PITUITARY ADRENOCORTICOTROPIC HORMONE TO GROWTH HORMONE IN HYPOPHYSECTOMIZED RATS1

IT was observed by Moon (1937) that pituitary extracts rich in adrenocorticotropic hormone inhibited somatic growth in young castrated rats. Extracts of the adrenal cortex and, in particular, purified adrenal cortical hormones such as corticosterone and related compounds which have an oxygen atom on carbon atom 11 of the perhydro- cyclopenteno-phenanthrene nucleus, have been found to have similar effects in normal rats (Ingle, Higgins and Kendall, 1938). The mechanism of this growth inhibition is not understood. It may be mediated by the pituitary, orit may be due to direct metabolic effects of the adrenal cortical hormones. Since the hormones were administered at high dosage levels, the results may even have been due to non-specific or 'toxic' effects, resulting for example in decreased food consumption. In the present communication, results are reported on the effect of adrenocorticotropic hormone onthe action of the growth hormone in the absence of the pituitary.
A pulp mill benchmark problem for control: application of plantwide control design

Abstract A heuristic for design of plantwide control strategies is introduced and applied to the millwide control of a previously presented pulp mill benchmark. Two control strategies (decentralized control and unit-based model predictive control) are compared according to their capacity to reduce the total error and maximize the operating profits. The control strategies are studied through closed-loop simulations of the process including several disturbances and setpoint changes in the digester, oxygen reactor, bleach plant, recausticizing plant and lime kiln.
Switched reluctance motor drive systems dynamic performance prediction and experimental verification

In this first of a set of two companion papers on switched reluctance motor drive systems, the results of using a state space model to predict a motor-drive system dynamic performance characteristics under normal operating conditions are presented. Using this approach, the state space model parameters are determined from series of nonlinear magnetic field solutions, thus accounting for magnetic material nonlinearities and space harmonics due to the motor geometry. The method is applied to a 6/4, 0.15 hp, 5000 r/min switched reluctance motor and resulted in the machine inductances, which compared favorably to measured values. Using these parameters in the state space model, the dynamic performance characteristics of the motor drive system are predicted and verified by comparison to experimental data. In addition, the effects of mutual coupling between motor phases on the analysis results are evaluated. >
Seamless tubular poly(glycerol sebacate) scaffolds: High‐yield fabrication and potential applications

We have previously created scaffolds composed of a biodegradable elastomer, poly(glycerol sebacate) (PGS), which are tubular, seamless, and highly porous. Here we describe two scaffold fabrication methods developed subsequently and compare the advantages of these methods to the original by examining overall yields and scaffold characteristics, such as defect frequency and severity, wall thickness homogeneity, microstructure, porosity, and mechanical properties. Scaffolds fabricated with a heat-shrinkable (HS) mandrel had higher yield, fewer defects, more homogeneous wall thickness and microstructure, and higher porosity. Improvements in yield and scaffold characteristics likely resulted from more uniform distribution of forces resulting in lower stress concentrations in the scaffolds during removal of HS mandrels. When seeded with smooth muscle cells in a bioreactor, the optimized scaffolds retained 74% of cells, which proliferated and formed a confluent cellular layer after 21 days of in vitro culture.
Two-Dimensional Correlation Infared Analysis (2D-IR) Based on Dynamic Infrared Spectroscopy Used as a Probe of the Viscoelastic Behavior of Side Chain Liquid Crystalline Polyurethanes

Dynamic infrared dichroism techniques were employed in the study of a complex side chain liquid crystalline segmented polyurethane. The dynamic spectra obtained were further analyzed using two-dimensional correlation infrared spectroscopy (2D-IR) that facilitates an easier interperation of the dynamic response. The behavior of the side chain mesogens is monitored by the cyano tag at the end of the molecule while the hard segments response is found in the carbonyl spectral region. This study of the different parts of the macromolecule leads to the understanding of the elastic and the viscous orientation behavior of the polymer under conditions of dynamic strain. In particular, we find that the elastic component of the strain aligns smectic layers parallel and hard domains perpendicular to the direction of strain. The viscous strain component, on the other hand, induces a perpendicular smectic layer and parallel hard domain orientation behavior. The utilization of two-dimensional infrared spectroscopy made ...
Seebeck effect in carbon fiber-reinforced cement

The Seebeck effect in carbon fiber-reinforced cement paste was found to involve electrons from the cement matrix and holes from the fibers. The two contributions were equal at the percolation threshold, with a fiber content between 0.5 and 1.0% by mass of cement. The hole contribution increased monotonically with increasing fiber content below and above the percolation threshold. The fiber addition increased the linearity and reversibility of the Seebeck effect. Silica fume and latex as admixtures had minor influence on the Seebeck effect.
ELECTRON TRANSFER FROM ALIPHATIC RADICALS TO RING-SUBSTITUTED PYRIDINE N-OXIDES AND THEIR COBALT-AMMINE COMPLEXES IN AQUEOUS SOLUTION

The reduction of pyridine N-oxides by 1-hydroxy-1-methylethyl radicals, •CMe2OH, is acid-dependent, in accord with the greater reducibility of protonated pyridine N-oxides. The respective rate constants for the unprotonated (kR0) and protonated (kR1) pyridine N-oxides have the following values (L mol-1 s-1): 8.1 × 107 and 2.8 × 109 (X = 4-CN), 7.5 × 106 and 3.7 × 108 (4-Cl), 7.8 × 106 and 8.4 × 107 (H), and 1.7 × 106 and 4.1 × 107 (4-Me). The reduction of the Co(III) complexes (NH3)5Co(X-pyO)3+ by •CMe2OH is rapid (k = 107−108 L mol-1 s-1) and acid-independent. On the basis of linear free energy relationships it is concluded that the reduction of the Co(III) complexes takes place by a chemical mechanism, whereby •CMe2OH reduces the coordinated X-pyO followed by an intramolecular electron transfer to the cobalt center.
Neurological Manifestations of Pulmonary Thromboembolism

During en-ntered four cases of fatal pulmonary thromboembolism in which symptoms and signs referable to the nervous system were sufficiently prominent to mask the true nature of the underlying disease. An analysis of these cases revealed certain clues that might have led to the correct premortem diagnosis. The purpose of this report is to emphasize those clues and to review the neurological manifestations of pulmonary thromboembolism. Report of Cases Case —This 61-year-old man was well until he fainted while carrying a beer cooler to his car. Upon regaining consciousness, he noticed weakness in his right arm, frontal headache, and pain in the right side of the chest, all of which subsided within a few hours. He remained asymptomatic until three days later when he fainted while eating breakfast. His private physician found him to have "low blood pressure" and mental confusion and referred him for further evaluation and therapy. On
Estimating optimal sampling unit sizes for satellite surveys

This paper reports on an approach for minimizing data loads associated with satellite-acquired data, while improving the efficiency of global crop area estimates using remotely sensed, satellite-based data. Results of a sampling unit size investigation are given that include closed-form models for both nonsampling and sampling error variances. These models provide estimates of the sampling unit sizes that effect minimal costs. Earlier findings from foundational sampling unit size studies conducted by Mahalanobis, Jessen, Cochran, and others are utilized in modeling the sampling error variance as a function of sampling unit size. A conservative nonsampling error variance model is proposed that is realistic in the remote sensing environment where one is faced with numerous unknown nonsampling errors. This approach permits the sampling unit size selection in the global crop inventorying environment to be put on a more quantitative basis while conservatively guarding against expected component error variances.
Transgenic assessment of CFP-mediated cercosporin export and resistance in a cercosporin-sensitive fungus

Cercosporin is a toxic polyketide produced by many phytopathogenic members of the fungal genus Cercospora. Cercospora species, themselves, exhibit the highest level of self-resistance to this almost universally toxic photosensitizer. Although the mechanism of cercosporin self-resistance is multi-faceted, partial resistance does appear to be provided by the encoded product of CFP (cercosporin facilitator protein), a gene recently isolated from the pathogen of soybean, C. kikuchii. CFP has significant similarity to the major facilitator superfamily of integral membrane transport proteins. We expressed CFP in the cercosporin non-producing, cercosporin-sensitive fungus, Cochliobolus heterostrophus, in order to assess the transport activity of CFP and the contribution of CFP to cercosporin resistance in a fungal species free of endogenous toxin production. Expression of the CFP transgene in this fungus results in increased resistance to cercosporin due, apparently, to its export out of the fungus.
Forging new syntheses: theories and theorists

This article argues that sociologists themselves may be partially responsible for the low status of sociology and suggests that efforts toward synthesis of existing theories show considerable promise toward enhancing the scholarly reputation and academic status of the discipline. A more unified approach to the study of society contains the potential of freeing sociologists from endless squabbles over minor differences and allows them to concentrate their energies on the task of furthering sociological knowledge. An integrated paradigm that deals with multiple levels of analysis offers a more complete understanding of the relationship between the individual and society than does single-minded concentration on specific levels of analysis. Overcoming massive intellectual agoraphobia is seen as the greatest challenge to general acceptance of an integrated paradigm.
“Agonizing Groans of Mothers” and “Slave‐Scarred Veterans”: The Commemoration of Slavery and Emancipation

This essay focuses on the impact of slavery on the lives of the formerly enslaved and their descendants in the black communities of the upper Midwest and explores contested memories of slavery and emancipation in three sites of cultural production: Emancipation Day celebrations, obituaries, and postbellum slave narratives. The essay finds that the formerly‐enslaved and their descendants grappled with a national legacy of slavery in memory and commemoration, in public memorials to private suffering, and by recalling, revisiting, and inscribed on community remembrance and national history the traumas of slavery.
Planktonic sarcodines: microhabitat for oceanic dinoflagellates1

Two morphologically distinct species of free-swimming dinoflagellates belonging to the genus Gyrodinium utilize the spine and rhizopodial environments of planktonic foraminifera and colonial radiolaria as microhabitats. Up to 84% of the sarcodines examined in a given population were associated with these dinoflagellates at densities up to 20,000 cells per sarcodine in some radiolarian colonies. Both dinoflagellate species possess chloroplasts, indicating they are capable of autotrophy. 14C-labelling experiments with the radiolarian-associated dinoflagellate demonstrate that it can take up inorganic carbon under both light and dark conditions. Ultrastructural evidence suggests the foraminiferal dinoflagellate may be capable of phagotrophy. Hence, these algae should be considered mixotrophs. An unusual cytoplasmic extension used for attachment and possibly feeding occurs in the foraminiferal-associated Gyrodinium and is documented with electron microscopy. Ultrastructural examination suggests this organelle may be hydrostatically controlled and may be an extension of the sac pusule.
Localization of seizure onset area from intracranial non-seizure EEG by exploiting locally enhanced synchrony

For as many as 30% of epilepsy patients, seizures are poorly controlled with medication alone. For some of these patients surgery may be an option: the brain region responsible for seizure onset may be removed surgically. However, this requires accurate delineation of the seizure onset region. Currently, the key to making this determination is seizure EEG. Therefore, EEG recordings must continue until enough seizures are obtained to determine the onset region; this may take about 5 days to several weeks. In some cases these recordings must be done using invasive electrodes, a procedure that includes substantial risk, discomfort and cost. In this paper, techniques are developed that use periods of intracranial non-seizure (“rest”) EEG to localize epileptogenic networks. Analysis of intracranial EEG (recorded by surface and/or depth electrodes) of 6 epileptic patients shows that certain EEG channels and hence cortical regions are consistently more synchronous (“hypersynchronous”) compared to others. It is shown that hypersynchrony seems to strongly correlate with the seizure onset zone; this phenomenon may in the long term allow to determine the seizure onset area(s) from non-seizure EEG, which in turn would enable shorter hospitalizations or even avoidance of semi-chronic implantations all-together.
Conducting project team classes in data processing

In screening and evaluating the background of applicants for careers in data processing, a considerable emphasis is placed on the ability of the applicant to work as a member of a team. This is because many required skills in data processing, specifically in the commercial environment, can only be obtained through individual work as a member of a team. This paper focuses on a method for simulating the business data processing environment through class project teams. The simulation is demonstrated through a discussion of the process of selecting the teams and projects, the frequent problems faced by team members, the background knowledge required, and the methods used in evaluating the projects.The benefits that can be derived by taking the programming team approach to the design and implementation of computer systems have been widely discussed in the literature [1, 2, 3]. This approach is receiving increasing attention in the commercial environment [4]. In addition, several new system design techniques [5, 6, 7, 8, 9] are becoming increasingly popular and the ideas of structured programming [10, 11, 12] are widely known. We feel, therefore, that an important part of the preparation for a career in information processing should include participation as a member of a programming and design team.In this paper we demonstrate the methods that we have used to create a project team environment in the classroom. These methods are based on our commercial experience and experience gained from conducting such classes for a combined total of seven semesters. Overall, the projects resulting from these team efforts have been of high quality and the students' reactions have been very favorable. The students from these courses that sought careers in data processing were able to find jobs rapidly. They have been highly successful in their careers.In interviews with our graduates they indicated that the experiences they gained from the project team classes were main factors in obtaining employment and the success they achieved in their work.
Seprafilm reduces adhesions to polypropylene mesh.

Abstract Background. Adhesions to polypropylene mesh used for abdominal wall hernia repair may eventuate in intestinal obstruction or enterocutaneous fistula. A Seprafilm Bioresorbable Membrane translucent adhesion barrier has been shown to inhibit adhesions. This investigation was designed to determine if Seprafilm alters abdominal visceral adhesions to polypropylene mesh. Methods. A 2.5-cm square abdominal muscle peritoneal defect was created and corrected with polypropylene mesh. Mesh alone was used in 17 rats. In another 17, the Seprafilm membrane was applied between the viscera and the mesh. Five animals had the bioresorbable membrane placed in the subcutaneous space and between the mesh and the viscera. Laparoscopy was performed 7, 14, and 28 days later to evaluate adhesions as a percentage of mesh surface involved. Results. Polypropylene mesh alone was associated with adhesions in every rat. The average area involved was 90%, the minimum was 75%. Adhesions were present within 24 hours and progressed up to 7 days with no change thereafter. When the Seprafilm barrier was used, the mean area involved was 50%. In 16 such rats, the area involved was smaller than any control animal. No adhesions formed in 5 animals. Scanning electron microscopy demonstrated a mesothelial cell layer covering the mesh after 4 weeks. Conclusions. The use of the Seprafilm adhesion barrier resulted in a significant reduction of adhesion formation to polypropylene mesh (P
Bilinear switched-capacitor ladder filter with reduced number of amplifiers

A novel technique is described for the design of bilinear switched-capacitor ladder filters with a reduced number of amplifiers.
Relation of Age, Gender, and Bone Mass to Circulating Sclerostin Levels in Women and Men

Sclerostin is a potent inhibitor of Wnt signaling and bone formation. However, there is currently no information on the relation of circulating sclerostin levels to age, gender, or bone mass in humans. Thus we measured serum sclerostin levels in a population-based sample of 362 women [123 premenopausal, 152 postmenopausal not on estrogen treatment (ET), and 87 postmenopausal on ET] and 318 men, aged 21 to 97 years. Sclerostin levels (mean ± SEM) were significantly higher in men than women (33.3 ± 1.0 pmol/L versus 23.7 ± 0.6 pmol/L, p < .001). In pre- and postmenopausal women not on ET combined (n = 275) as well as in men, sclerostin levels were positively associated with age (r = 0.52 and r = 0.64, respectively, p < .001 for both). Over life, serum sclerostin levels increased by 2.4- and 4.6-fold in the women and men, respectively. Moreover, for a given total-body bone mineral content, elderly subjects (age ≥ 60 years) had higher serum sclerostin levels than younger subjects (ages 20 to 39 years). Our data thus demonstrate that (1) men have higher serum sclerostin levels than women, (2) serum sclerostin levels increase markedly with age, and (3) compared with younger subjects, elderly individuals have higher serum sclerostin levels for a given amount of bone mass. Further studies are needed to define the cause of the age-related increase in serum sclerostin levels in humans as well as the potential role of this increase in mediating the known age-related impairment in bone formation. © 2011 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Meteoric water-basalt interactions. I. A laboratory study

Rates, stoichiometry and activation energy of dissolution, pH vs. time and activity-activity paths were determined by dissolving basaltic rocks under simulated natural conditions at 25 to 60°C. Dissolution follows a linear rate law, with basaltic glass dissolving about 10 times faster than crystalline basalt. Rates are independent of pH from 7 to 9.5. The basaltic glass dissolves near stoichiometrically at 25°C, but this is not so for the crystalline basalt. The average activation energy for dissolution of basaltic glass is 32 kJ/ mol (±3). For individual elements leached from crystalline basalt, it ranges from 35 to 15 kj/mol. This indicates that under experimental conditions reactions on the surfaces of the solids are the rate-determining step in the dissolution mechanism. Ca, Mg, and Si reached steady state or equilibrium concentrations in solutions at 45 and 65°C. Alteration minerals formed in vugs on the solids but did not form a continuous protective layer on the solids. Reaction paths for the experimental solutions are strongly dependent on their pH versus time evolution. Solutions sealed off from the atmosphere evolve into the Ca-zeolite field, whereas those open to the atmosphere evolve into the clay mineral fields. During the experiments the consumption of hydrogen by solids at 25°C (10−5 mol/kg) is not sufficient to significantly change the hydrogen isotope ratio of the experimental solutions.
Xerophytic species evaluated for renewable energy resources.

Previously, the USDA Northern Regional Research Center has examined 600 plant species in 88 families for their multipurpose, energy-producing potential. About three-fourths of these species have been from central and southern Illinois, but only about 2% have been from arid or semiarid regions of the United States. For this report, 100 species collected from Arizona were evaluated, bringing the total number of species evaluated at this Center to 700 in 96 families. Plant specimens were analyzed for yields of fractions referred to as “oil,” “polyphenol,” “hydrocarbon,” and protein and were examined for botanical characteristics. Oil and hydrocarbon fractions of selected species were partially characterized. Ten species gave high yields of oil and/or polyphenol. For example,Asclepias linaria yielded 8.7% oil (dry, ash-free sample basis) + 11.7% polyphenol (1.9% hydrocarbon).Rhus choriophylla yielded 7.0% oil + 20% polyphenol (0.4% hydrocarbon) andJuglans major yielded 7.0% oil + 9.4% polyphenol (0.2% hydrocarbon).Pittosporum tobira gave the highest yield of hydrocarbon (23%). Fourteen species contained at least 18% protein. In general, the percentages of species yielding substantial amounts of oil and/or polyphenol were considerably higher for the Arizona species than for those 600 species previously analyzed. Complete analytical data are presented for 38 species and are discussed in relationship to the 600 species previously reported.
Geometrically Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis of Imperfect Laminated Shells

Formulations and computational procedures are presented for the finite element analysis of laminated anisotropic composite thin shells including imperfections. The derivations of the nonlinear geom...
Knowledge Assisted Visualization: A high-dimensional feature clustering approach to support knowledge-assisted visualization

The ever-growing arsenal of methods and parameters available for data visualization can be daunting to the casual user and even to domain experts. Furthermore, comprehensive expertise is often not available in a centralized venue, but distributed over sub-communities. As a means to overcome this inherent problem, efforts have begun to store visualization expertise directly with the visualization method and possibly the dataset, to then be utilized for user guidance in the data visualization, suggesting to the user both the visualization method and its best parameters for the data and task at hand. While this is certainly an immensely useful and promising development, one requirement remains - the matching of a newly acquired dataset with the appropriate segment of the library storing the expert knowledge. This requires one to detect and recognize the dataset's category at some level of granularity and then use this information as a library index. We describe a possible framework for accomplishing the first stage of this process, namely the data categorization, using data classification via a rich set of feature vectors sufficiently sensitive to detect critical variations. We demonstrate the utility of our framework by ways of a set of medical and computational datasets and visualize the resulting categorization as a layout in 2D.