cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sparse representation of multi parametric DCE-MRI features using K-SVD for classifying gene expression based breast cancer recurrence risk

We evaluate the prognostic value of sparse representation-based features by applying the K-SVD algorithm on multiparametric kinetic, textural, and morphologic features in breast dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI). K-SVD is an iterative dimensionality reduction method that optimally reduces the initial feature space by updating the dictionary columns jointly with the sparse representation coefficients. Therefore, by using K-SVD, we not only provide sparse representation of the features and condense the information in a few coefficients but also we reduce the dimensionality. The extracted K-SVD features are evaluated by a machine learning algorithm including a logistic regression classifier for the task of classifying high versus low breast cancer recurrence risk as determined by a validated gene expression assay. The features are evaluated using ROC curve analysis and leave one-out cross validation for different sparse representation and dimensionality reduction numbers. Optimal sparse representation is obtained when the number of dictionary elements is 4 (K=4) and maximum non-zero coefficients is 2 (L=2). We compare K-SVD with ANOVA based feature selection for the same prognostic features. The ROC results show that the AUC of the K-SVD based (K=4, L=2), the ANOVA based, and the original features (i.e., no dimensionality reduction) are 0.78, 0.71. and 0.68, respectively. From the results, it can be inferred that by using sparse representation of the originally extracted multi-parametric, high-dimensional data, we can condense the information on a few coefficients with the highest predictive value. In addition, the dimensionality reduction introduced by K-SVD can prevent models from over-fitting.
Identity and political socialization.

Political thinking plays an important role in the development of an ideological identity in a democratic society, but we may actually know very little about the interrelationship between political socialization and identity formation during adolescence.
Salamander diversity and abundance in forests with alternative land use histories in the Southern Blue Ridge Mountains

Abstract The diversity and abundance of terrestrial salamanders were compared at 12 forest stands having three different land use histories: (a) successional forests established on abandoned farmland; (b) second/third growth forests that had experienced timber harvest; (c) stands having few to no alterations due to land use. Populations were estimated using pitfall trapping conducted during July 1997–June 1998 in the Southern Blue Ridge Province of the Southern Appalachian Mountains. Salamander diversity did not differ among land use categories; however, abundances were greater in the older, least-altered stands. Abundances were positively correlated with late successional qualities of forest, such as increased domination by mesophytic tree species and increased availability of wood debris. However, we did not find large differences between stands that had experienced previous agricultural uses and those that had not been farmed, only logged. At our sites, enough time had passed since agricultural use that any differences between agricultural and forestry uses had diminished. These results show both the sensitivity of salamanders to past habitat alterations and the resiliency of these populations in their ability to recover in these ecosystems given sufficient time.
Variable speed heat pump design for frequency regulation through direct load control

Frequency regulation becomes a non-trivial issue due to an increase in renewable resources and power electronics-based loads. Direct load control (DLC), a strategy of autonomous demand response, has been applied to mitigate operational burdens on generation units for frequency regulation. Variable speed heat pumps (VSHPs) have been regarded as promising devices that can respond to the DLC signal updated every 2 or 4 seconds. This paper presents a dynamic model of the VSHP that is simplified for real-time simulation studies but still sufficiently comprehensive to analyze its physical and operational characteristics. Furthermore, a variable speed drive (VSD)-controlled induction motor model is designed together with an indirect torque controller for the adjustment of the VSHP input power. In addition, based on experimental setup and data, a test room was modeled to estimate the effect of the DLC-enabled VSHP on indoor temperature. Simulation case studies performed in Matlab/Simulink verify that the VSHP can be well utilized as DLC-enabled loads for frequency regulation while ensuring residents' comfort and long-term device performance.
Neighborhood watch orchestrates liver regeneration

Liver injury promotes the outgrowth of cell types that are relatively rare in healthy livers, including progenitors and stromal cells. A new study shows that the type of injury influences the cellular composition of the liver progenitor niche, which then seems to direct the fate of progenitors during regeneration (pages 572–579).
Scaffolding of an antimicrobial peptide (KSL) by a scale-down coarse-grained approach.

A coarse-grained approach with enhanced representation of amino acid (involving four components, i.e. a central alpha carbon and its side group along with C and N terminals) is used to study the multi-scale assembly of an antimicrobial peptide (KSL) in an explicit solvent (in a scale-down hierarchy of Eby et al. [Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2011, 13, 1123–1130]). Both local (mobility, solvent-surrounding, energy profiles) and global (variation of the root mean square displacement of peptides and its gyration radius with time steps, radial distribution function, and structure factors) physical quantities are analyzed as a function of the solvent quality (i.e. the solvent–residue interaction strength). We find that the mobility of the interacting side group (lysine) decays as the number of its surrounding solvent constituents grows systematically on increasing the interaction strength. Pinning of lysine directs the underlying segmental conformation that propagates to larger scale scaffolding. The radial distribution function (a measure of the correlated peptide assembly) decays with the distance (faster with stronger solvent interaction). Scaling of the structure factor (S(q)) of peptide assembly with the wave vector q = 2π/λ (λ is the wavelength), S(q) ∝ q−1/ν provides an insight into its multi-scale mass (N) distribution. The effective dimension De = 1/ν of the peptide assembly over the spatial distribution (R) can be estimated using N ∝ RDe. On scales larger than the size (i.e. the radius of gyration Rg) of the peptide, De ≈ 1.303 ± 0.070 to De ≈ 1.430 ± 0.096, a rather fibrous morphology appears perhaps due to directed pinning while the morphology appears like an ideal chain, De ≈ 1.809 ± 0.017 to De ≈ 1.978 ± 0.017, at a smaller scale R ≤ Rg.
New acetylenic monomers and polymers from 4,5-dicyanoimidazole

An efficient synthesis of 1-methyl-2-ethynyl-4,5-dicyanoimidazole via Sonogashira coupling is described. Our optimized method generates 1-methyl-2-ethynyl-4,5-dicyanoimidazole in almost 80% yield from 1-methyl-2-bromo-4,5-dicyanoimidazole. Syntheses of the ethyl, propyl, and p-methoxybenzyl derivatives of 2-ethynyl-4,5-dicyanoimidazole are also reported. The polymerization of 1-methyl-2-ethynyl-4,5-dicyanoimidazole with transition-metal catalysts and triethylamine is described. Variation of catalyst concentration, reaction time, and temperature is also described. A more complete mechanistic picture of acetylene polymerizations, especially those with electron-withdrawing substituents, is presented. Solid samples of 1-methyl-2-ethynyl-4,5-dicyanoimidazole oligomers are EPR-active, and the number of free spins was quantified. Cyclic voltammetry was used to investigate the reduction of 1-methyl-2-ethynyl-4,5-dicyanoimidazole oligomers and other dicyanoimidazole derivatives.
Vertical Tears of the Lateral Meniscus: Effects on In Vitro Tibiofemoral Joint Mechanics.

Background:Lateral meniscal tears are often seen with acute anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury and may be left in situ, repaired, or treated with meniscectomy. Clinical studies have shown good...
Observations on the Settlement Patterns of Janua (Dexiospira) brasiliensis (Polychaeta: Serpulidae)

The polychaete Janua (Dexiospira) brasiliensis (Grube) is shown to exhibit gregarious settling patterns on both natural (Zostera marina) and artificial (aquarium glass) substrates. J. (D.) brasiliensis tends to be found more often on older (=longer) Zostera blades and on the upper (=older) portions of the blades on which it is found, probably as a result of requiring a diatom mat before being able to settle on the Zostera surface. On both Zostera and the aquarium glass, J. (D.) brasiliensis forms small clumps (2 cm) with the animals within the clumps distributed at random.
Medicinal leeches used to salvage a traumatic nasal flap

We report a case in which medicinal leeches (Hirudo medicinalis) were used to rescue a traumatic nasal flap from venous congestion and loss. A healthy 18-year-old had a bicycling accident and, in addition to other facial injuries, presented with a complex full thickness nasal laceration. After he had been resuscitated and the flap sutured, he was treated with two leeches four times a day for 48 h. His recovery was satisfactory and uncomplicated. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons should be familiar with the use of leeches, as they have a small but occasionally important role in the management of both traumatic and reconstructive flaps.
Bromocriptine-related psychosis and treatment

Bromocriptine, an ergot derivative with dopamine agonist actions, lowers prolactin levels in the blood (Mehta and Tolis 1979). It is FDA-approved in the United States for the short-term treatment of amenorrhea-galactorrhea that is associated with hyperprolactinemia and is without demonstrable evidence of pituitary tumors. Until recently, the first line of treatment in prolactin-secreting adenomas was surgery or radiotherapy. However, there is now evidence that bromocriptine causes tumor regression and resolution of visual field defects (Bergh et al. 1978; Thorner and Besser 1978). Its ongoing administration has been associated with inducing psychosis, both in patients with no such prior history (Serby et al. 1978) and in those with past history of psychosis in symptomatic remission (Tamminga and Schaffer 1979; Frye et al. 1982). We describe another bromocriptinerelated psychosis in a patient with prolactin adenoma and the use of valproate in combination with low-dose haloperidol in the treatment of the psychosis. The patient, currently a 31-year-old woman, first came to psychiatric attention 5 years ago. In 1978, she developed amenorrhea, galactorrhea, hyperprolactinemia, and hirsutism and was successfully treated by her gynecologist with bromocriptine, 2.5 mg qd for 10 months. At the time, there was no CT evidence of a pituitary adenoma. She tolerated the drug well, with return of menses and cessation of galactorrhea and further abnormal hair growth. The patient had no psychiatric history. She was a well-adapted young woman, employed successfully by a television company, and was social and personable. Family history for affective disorder or psychosis was negative. Unintentionally, the bromocriptine was abruptly discontinued. Within 5 days, she became acutely psychotic and was placed in custody by the police, because she was lying naked on a local beach stating she was waiting for Jesus to impregnate her. On admission to the acute inpatient psychiatric unit, a mental status examination revealed acute agitation, confusion, visual and auditory hallucinations, and preoccupation with religious and bizarre delusions. A diagnosis of atypical psychosis was made by DSM-III criteria. At the time, her prolactin level was 32.5 ng/ml. There was no evidence of other endocrine dysfunction, and CT scans and EEG prior to treatment were negative. She continued to remain psychotic despite several pharmacological and somatic treatments, including lithium, readministrations of bromocriptine, and ECT. Only partial clinical response was achieved with doses of haloperidol up to 60 mg qd. In March 1980, during an acute exacerbation of symptoms, precipitated by lowering the dosage of haloperidol in order to perform sensitive neu
Observations of the 2-day wave in NMC stratospheric analyses

Abstract Observational characteristics of the 2-day wave, a westward-propagating zonal wave 3 oscillation in the summer subtropical upper stratosphere and mesosphere, are studied based on five years of National Meteorological Center (NMC) operational stratospheric analyses. These data show episodic occurrence of the 2-day wave in the upper stratosphere in January (centered near 20°S) and July–August (centered near 20°N). These episodes are strongly correlated with observed reversals of the zonal mean potential vorticity gradient near the core of the summer easterly jet, consistent with previous suggestions that the 2-day wave is generated by an in situ instability of this jet. On the other hand, the horizontal and vertical structure of the waves is very similar to that calculated by Salby for a global normal-mode Rossby wave. The combination of normal-mode structure and instability signature suggests that the 2-day wave is a near-resonant mode forced by dynamical instability.
Interferometry of Cyg A and Cas A - Source noise at 327 MHz

Interferometric observations of Cyg A and Cas A at 327 MHz confirm predictions for the characteristics of noise in synthesis images of very bright sources. On a single baseline, the noise variances of the real and imaginary components of the complex visibility are not equal. The noise in an image is larger for positions on-source than off-source. The on-source noise is scattered into the off-source region by the sidelobes of the synthesized beam. Part of this contribution to the off-source noise can be removed by judicious deconvolution.
Computerised Test Interpretation Services: Ethical and Professional Concerns Regarding U.S. Producers and Users

This article focuses on consumer issues arising from the impact of advances in computer technology on the use of psychological assessments. It describes how the widespread use of microcomputers and minicomputers and the development of software for interpreting complex diagnostic and pre-employment tests of a clinical nature, coupled with the growing demand for cost-effective clinical assessment, has led to increased use of computer-based test interpretations by health care professionals. Although these interpretations offer advantages, they also carry a potential for misuse. The authors make recommendations for professional self-regulation to strengthen the gatekeeper function of controlling access to clinical assessment tools. Cet article s'interesse aux preoccupations des utilisateurs nees de ľ impact des progres de ľ informatique sur la pratique de ľevaluation psychologique. On y decrit comment ľ usage generalise des mini- et micrc-ordinateurs ainsi que le developpement des logiciels dans ľ interpretation des diagnostics complexes et des tests de selection de nature clinique, associea la demande croissante ď une evaluation clinique efficace au meilleur cout, a amene de plus en plus les specialistes de la santea exploiter les interpretations de tests par ordinateur. Cette solution presente des avantages, mais aussi des risques ď abus. Les auteurs recommandent aux specialistes de renforcer eux-memes le controle du droit ď acces aux outils ďevaluation clinique.
Imaging of the salivary glands

CT and MRI have greatly facilitated evaluation of pathology of the three pairs of major salivary glands and thehundreds of minor salivary glands. Imaging can frequently offer a specific histological diagnosis for benign and malignant neoplasms of the parotid, submandibular, and sublingual glands. Obstruction, infection, autoimmune processes, and congenital anomalies also are readily diagnosed. CT and MRI studies assess the anatomic extent of minor salivary gland neoplasms. Sialography continues to provide useful information about intrinsic abnormalities of the parotid and submandibular ducts.
Mechanisms of Altered Redox Regulation in Neurodegenerative Diseases—Focus on S-Glutathionylation

Abstract Significance: Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by progressive loss of neurons. A common feature is oxidative stress, which arises when reactive oxygen species (ROS) and/or reactive nitrogen species (RNS) exceed amounts required for normal redox signaling. An imbalance in ROS/RNS alters functionality of cysteines and perturbs thiol–disulfide homeostasis. Many cysteine modifications may occur, but reversible protein mixed disulfides with glutathione (GSH) likely represents the common steady-state derivative due to cellular abundance of GSH and ready conversion of cysteine-sulfenic acid and S-nitrosocysteine precursors to S-glutathionylcysteine disulfides. Thus, S-glutathionylation acts in redox signal transduction and serves as a protective mechanism against irreversible cysteine oxidation. Reversal of protein-S-glutathionylation is catalyzed specifically by glutaredoxin which thereby plays a critical role in cellular regulation. This review highlights the role of oxidative modification...
The Effectiveness of Juvenile Treatment Drug Courts: A Meta-Analytic Review of Literature

Reviewed are 31 studies that evaluated recidivism rates from juvenile drug treatment courts relative to a random-assignment or convenience comparison group. Recidivism was defined as re-referral, new charges, or re-arrest. Mean effect sizes and confidence intervals are provided for the three recidivism assessment time frames most often used by researchers (e.g., recidivism occurring “during the drug court program”; “during, plus post-program”; and “post-program only”). Characteristics of youths and programs that were hypothesized to correlate with the size of effect (e.g., gender and ethnic proportions of program participants, methodological quality of studies) were examined in an attempt to account for variation in effect sizes across studies. The average premature termination rate from drug court programs, as a face-valid indicator of typical program effectiveness, is also reported. The results, based on significantly more studies than past reviews, show that juvenile drug court treatment program youths...
From Genome to Physiome: Integrative Models of Cardiac Excitation

The last decade has generated extensive information on the genetic and molecular basis of disease. A major challenge remains the integration of this information into the physiological environment of the functioning cell and tissue. This article illustrates the use of computational biology in meeting this challenge in the context of cardiac excitation and arrhythmia. (1) Genetics to Cell Function: Mutations that alter the kinetics of the cardiac sodium channel, INa, give rise to a congenital form of the long QT syndrome that can lead to sudden death. Using a computer model of the cardiac cell, we simulated the effects of the mutations on the action potential, demonstrating its prolongation at slow rate and the development of arrhythmogenic early afterdepolarizations due to reactivation of L-type Ca channels, ICa(L) [Clancy and Rudy, Nature (London)400:566, 1999]. (2) Multicellular Tissue: Slow conduction is an important property of propagation arrhythmias (reentry). Very slow conduction is supported by reduced intercellular coupling through gap junctions. Using a multicellular fiber model, we have shown that slow conduction is very stable and, in contrast to normal conduction which depends solely on INa requires a major contribution from ICa(L) (Shaw and Rudy, Circ. Res.81:727, 1997). © 2000 Biomedical Engineering Society.
Bacteriophage SP01 regulatory proteins directing late gene transcription in vitro

Expression of the temporally defined “late” genes of Bacillus subtilis phage SP01 requires the protein products of regulatory genes 33 and 34. These proteins have now been isolated in pure form. Together with a host factor delta, they act synergistically to direct “late” gene transcription in vitro by core RNA polymerase.
Phytochemistry of the mopane, Colophospermum mopane.

The polyphenolic pool of the heartwood of the mopane, Colophospermum mopane Kirk ex J. Leonard, exhibits extreme diversity and complexity. It comprises a variety of monomeric flavonoids, e.g. flavan-3-ols, flavan-3,4-diols including the mopanols and peltogynols, flavonols, dimeric proanthocyanidins, e.g. proguibourtinidins, profisetinidins, promopanidins, propeltogynidins, and a variety of profisetinidin-type triflavanoids. The di- and tri-meric proanthocyanidins are accompanied by several functionalized tetrahydropyrano- and hexahydrodipyrano-chromenes (phlobatannins) that originate from the bi- and tri-flavanoids, respectively, via rearrangement of the pyran heterocycle(s). Owing to the predominance of the 5-deoxy (A-ring) flavan-3-ols, the chain terminating moieties in the biosynthesis of oligo- and poly-meric proanthocyanidins, the di- and tri-meric analogs also exhibit diversity as far as interflavanyl bonding positions are concerned. Such heterogeneity results from the reduced nucleophilicity of the A-rings of 5-deoxy flavan-3-ols, compared to the A-rings of the 5-oxy analogs (catechins), hence permitting alternative centers to participate in proanthocyanidin formation. Biomimetic-type syntheses were extensively utilized to unequivocally establish constitution and absolute stereochemistry of both the conventional and pyran ring rearranged-type di- and tri-meric compounds. Comprehension of the intricate mechanistic and stereochemical course of the pyran ring rearrangement reactions also contributed significantly to unambiguous structure elucidations. The aerial parts of the mopane are rich in essential oils that comprise mainly alpha-pinene and limonene, which are presumably responsible for the strong turpentine odor of the pods. The leaves also contain significant concentrations of beta-sitosterol and stigmasterol which are apparently the source of sterols in various organs of the mopane moth, Gonimbrasia belina. Three diterpenes, dihydrogrindelic acid, labd-13E-en-15-oate and dihydrogrindelaldehyde are present in the bark and seeds, the latter compound exhibiting significant cytotoxicity against a human breast cancer cell line.
Devonian Correlations in Wyoming-Montana-Alberta-Saskatchewan: ABSTRACT

Regional correlations in the Devonian have been obscured by diversity of treatment and the erection of numerous names for local lithologic developments. Broad-scale studies suggest that four operational rock units can be carried over much of the area and that these form a rational basis for analysis of the complex stratigraphic problems involved. Four units are recognized. (1) A basal unit including the "Basal Devonian unit" and "Dc" unit of Montana. Ghost River formation of the Alberta mountain front, and Elk Point and equivalent units in the Alberta-Saskatchewan subsurface. (2) A lower limestone unit including the limestone member of the Jefferson formation, the Fairholme formation (minus uppermost beds), and lithologic equivalents in the subsurface. (3) A dolomite-evaporite unit including the dolomite member of the Jefferson (plus evaporite-breccia zones in the lower part of the Three Forks), the lower part of the Darby formation of Wyoming, the Potlatch anhydrite, Morro member of the Palliser and Alexo silt of the Fairholme, and lithologically equivalent subsurface units. (4) An upper post-evaporite unit including the upper part of the Three Forks formation, the End_Page 1106------------------------------ upper Darby, the Costigan member of the Palliser, and equivalent clastic and non-clastic beds between the top of the anhydrite and the base of the Exshaw shale in the subsurface. An attempt is made to refine correlations by tracing of cyclical evaporite deposits, widespread clastic zones, and biostromal and fossiliferous-fragmental limestones. End_of_Article - Last_Page 1107------------
Estimating the impact of royalty relief on oil and gas production on marginal state leases in the US

Abstract An emerging challenge for several energy-producing states will be the development of policies that encourage the continued economic development of maturing oil and gas properties. Production rates naturally decline as wells age. This is particularly true for properties approaching “marginal” status in many energy-producing states where continued operation under expected economic conditions becomes questionable. Premature shut-in of these wells may entail loss of production, economic output, employment, and state revenues. This paper examines the potential impact of royalty relief on state leases and economic production using Louisiana as a case study. Two production related measures for state leases are estimated: (1) current production position relative to the age of the property and (2) the current costs of production for the given property at a given or anticipated level of output. Those wells/leases that are estimated as having negative profitability (i.e., losses) or operating at break-even levels are candidates for “marginal” classification. The number of wells and production associated with these marginal leases will then be estimated. The economic impacts of offering royalty relief at the 25% level are considered. Under the royalty relief scenario, a minimal amount of increased revenues is realized by the state and the discount provides only incremental production from marginal wells relative to total state production.
Multiscale Dynamic Modeling of Flexibility in Myosin V

This paper presents a multiscale dynamic model for the simulation and analysis of flexibility in myosin V. A three dimensional (3D) flexible multibody model is developed to mechanically model the biological structure of myosin V. Experimental studies have shown that myosin’s neck domain can be considered as three pairs of tandem elements which can bend at junctures between them. Therefore, each neck is modeled by three rigid bodies connected by flexible spherical joints. One of the most important issues in dynamic modeling of micro-nanoscale sized biological structures, likes DNA and motor proteins, is the long simulation run time due to the disproportionality between physical parameters involved in their dynamics such as mass, drag coefficient, and stiffness. In order to address this issue, the mostly used models, based on the famous overdamped Langevin dynamics, omit the inertial terms in the equations of motion; that leads to a first order model which is inconsistent with the Newton’s second law. However, the proposed model uses the concept of the method of multiple scales (MMS) that brings all terms of the equations of motion into proportion with each other that helps to retain the inertia terms. This keeps consistency of the model with the physical laws and increases time step size of numerical integration from commonly used sub-femto seconds to sub-milli seconds. Therefore, simulation run time will be many orders of magnitude less than ones based on the other approaches. The simulation results obtained by the proposed multiscale model show more realistic dynamic behavior of myosin V in compared with other models.© 2013 ASME
Coronal Mass Ejection-Associated Coronal Dimmings

We report on a statistical analysis of 96 CME-associated EUV coronal dimmings between 1998 and 2000. We investigate the size and location of the events and characterize how these events evolve with time. The durations typically range from 3 to 12 hr. The dimmings appear most frequently within the belt of active regions (20°-50° latitude). Dimming events are generally symmetric in latitude and longitude with some tendency to be broader in latitude. The temporal profiles of most events are characterized by a sharp rise and a gradual recovery. Although the majority of cases are well fit by a single recovery slope, a large minority of events have a two-part decay with an initial decaying slope that is similar in magnitude to the rising slope and a secondary, flatter, decay lasting several hours.
Protective role of cytotoxic lymphocytes against murine leukemia virus-induced neurologic disease and immunodeficiency is enhanced by the presence of helper T cells

Abstract We examined the role of T cells and their separated subsets in providing immunity against ts 1 (a mutant of the Moloney murine leukemia virus) induced paralysis and immunodeficiency. Adoptive transfer of syngeneic total T cells from immunized mice protected newborn mice, at least partially, from ts1-induced disease syndrome. In infected mice who received total immune T cells, virus replication was reduced and the mice survived longer. When only separated immune CD8 + T cells were transferred to infected mice, similar protection, albeit to a lesser extent, was observed. Transfer of separated immune CD4+T cells alone gave no protection. However, when recombined CD4 + and CD8 + cells were transferred together, an immune response similar to that when total T cells were transferred was observed. Cytotoxic assays from ts 1-immunized mice revealed the presence of virus-specific CD8 + cytotoxic T lymphocytes that could lyse virus-expressing cells at a high effector/target ratio. We conclude that CD8 + T cells alone can provide immunity against ts 1-induced paralysis and immunodeficiency and that the simultaneous presence of CD4 + T cells can also significantly enhance the immune response.
Prediction of Crack Nucleation in Rough Line-Contact Fretting via Continuum Damage Mechanics Approach

The crack nucleation behavior of rough surfaces in line contact is investigated by means of a thermodynamically based continuum damage mechanics technique. The deterministic approach is employed to investigate the effect of roughness on the surface tractions and contact stresses. In order to treat the effect of high stress gradients, a special averaging technique, proposed previously for the case of smooth surface, is adopted in this study. The predictions of the crack nucleation life are compared with the relevant experimental data in the literature and indicate the validity of the analysis.
Elastic tourniquet technique for decompression of extremity compartment syndrome

Compartment syndrome of the extremities is usually associated with direct trauma and often requires surgical fasciotomy to avert potential complications and morbidity. We present a case of upper extremity compartment syndrome resulting from pressurized infusion of autologous whole blood, in which fasciotomy was avoided by the application of a simple and effective technique using an elastic Esmarch bandage. Guidelines for surgical fasciotomy and the hazards associated with pressurized infusion of fluids in the anesthetized patient are discussed.
The genetics of proximal femur geometry, distribution of bone mass and bone mineral density.

To estimate genetic effects on femoral neck geometry and the distribution of bone mineral within the proximal femur a cross-sectional twin analysis was carried out at a university hospital that compared correlations in these traits in pairs of mono- and dizygo-tic female twins. Monozygotic (MZ, n=51 pairs, age 49.1±9.3 years) and dizygotic (DZ, n=26 pairs, age 45.7±11.3 years) twins were randomly selected from a larger sample of twins previously studied. Measurements of bone mineral density (BMD), femoral neck angles and length, cross-sectional area and moment of interia, the center of mass of the narrowest cross-section of the femoral neck, and BMDs of regions within the femoral neck were made. A summary index of the resistance of the femoral neck to forces experienced in a fall with impact on the greater trochanter (Fall Index, FI) was calculated. MZ pair intraclass correlations (rMZ) were significantly (p<0.05) different from zero for all bone mass and femoral geometry variables (0.35<rMZ<0.82). DZ pair correlations (rDZ) were lower thanrMZ for all variables (0.04<rDZ<0.52) except femoral neck length (rDZ=0.38, rMZ=0.36). After adjustment for BMD of the femoral neck,rMZ was significantly greater thanrDZ, yielding high heritability estimates for regional BMDs (0.72<H 2<0.78), the center of mass of the femoral neck (H 2=0.70, −0.04 to 1.43 95% CI) and the resistance of the femoral neck to forces experienced in a fall (FI,H 2=0.94, 0.06 to 1.85 95% CI), but not for femoral neck length. Adjustments for age did not alter these findings. It is concluded that there are significant familial influences on the distribution of femoral bone mass and on the calculated structural strength of the proximal femur, but not on femoral neck length. If the assumptions of the twin model are correct, this is evidence for genetic factors influencing these traits.
Capture of activation during ventricular arrhythmia using distributed stimulation.

Results of previous studies suggest that pacing strength stimuli can capture activation during ventricular arrhythmia locally near pacing sites. The existence of spatio-temporal distribution of excitable gap during arrhythmia suggests that multiple and timed stimuli delivered over a region may permit capture over larger areas.
Influence ofL-Cysteine on the Oxidation Chemistry of (-)-Epinephrine: Formation of Cysteinyl Conjugates and Novel Dihydrobenzothiazines

Abstract Oxidation of epinephrine (EPI) in aqueous solution at pH 7.4 generates an ortho -quinone (1) that normally deprotonates and undergoes a rapid intramolecular cyclization and secondary reactions, ultimately leading to an indolic melanin polymer. In this investigation, it is demonstrated that L -cysteine (CySH) can intervene in this reaction by scavenging o -quinone 1 to give 5- S -cysteinylepinephrine (5- S -CyS-EPI) and 2- S -cysteinylepinephrine (2- S -CyS-EPI). Subsequent oxidation (2 e , 2H + ) of the latter cysteinyl conjugates gives o -quinones that can either react further with free CySH to give the 2,5-bi- S - and 2,5,6-tri- S -cysteinyl conjugates of EPI or cyclize to give 7-[(2-methylamino)ethyl]-3,4-dihydro-5-hydroxy-2 H -1,4-benzothiazine-3-carboxylic acid (DHBT-E1) and 8-[(2-methylamino)ethyl]-3,4-dihydro-5-hydroxy-2 H -1,4-benzothiazine-3-carboxylic acid (DHBT-E2), respectively, Oxidations of 2,5-bi- S -CyS-EPI and 2,5,6-tris- S -CyS-EPI and of DHBT-E1 and DHBT-E2 in the presence of CySH provide routes to a number of other dihydrobenzothiazines (DHBTs). Four new cysteinyl conjugates of EPI and seven DHBTs have been isolated and their structures elucidated by spectroscopic methods. Based upon a number of lines of converging evidence, it is suggested that these compounds might include unusual metabolites of EPI formed in adrenergic neurons under certain pathological brain conditions.
Digital image-derived greenness links deep soil moisture to carbon uptake in a creosotebush-dominated shrubland

Changes in the timing, frequency, and magnitude of precipitation events are projected for semiarid ecosystems worldwide. The ecological consequences associated with these precipitation changes will be better understood if the hydrological triggers of vegetation response can be better identified. Previous research has suggested that soil moisture, likely from large monsoon rainstorms, plays a critical role in triggering the phenological response of semiarid shrublands. Here we propose that the recent emergence of time-lapse repeat digital photography (pheno-cams) can play a role in further explaining the hydrological triggers of phenological response in semiarid shrublands. This study is focused on a creosotebush-dominated ecosystem of the Santa Rita Experimental Range, southeastern Arizona. In addition to typical eddy covariance instrumentation, this site offers continuous measurements of soil moisture in 6 one-meter profiles. Additionally, three pheno-cams have been installed in the footprint of the eddy covariance tower at the site. We demonstrate (1) that the green-up of evergreen creosotebush can be tracked using an average greenness index calculated from multiple pheno-cams within a tower footprint; (2) that the green-up of creosotebush is driven by deep soil moisture (e.g. > 30 cm); and (3) that carbon uptake can be predicted using image-derived green-up of creosotebush.
A collection of Galilean satellite eclipses 1652 - 1982.

It is known that early (i.e. 17th–18th century) visual observations of Jupiter’s Galilean satellites are approximately as accurate as modern visually observed eclipses (Lieske 1982). In the early days the clocks were the primary source of error while in present days problems related to the Earth’s and Jupiter’s atmospheres have become the primary limiting factor. The early observations were generally made in local apparent time (i.e. related to the real hour angle of the sun). After the development by Huygens in 1656 of the pendulum clock, these early observations, when reduced to a modern UT system, have been shown to be quite accurate.
Bryelmis Barr (Coleoptera: Elmidae: Elminae), a New Genus of Riffle Beetle with Three New Species from the Pacific Northwest, U.S.A.

Bryelmis Barr, a new genus of elmid, and three new species, Bryelmis idahoensis Barr, Bryelmis rivularis Barr, and Bryelmis siskiyou Barr, are described from streams and springs in Washington, Oregon, California, and Idaho. Drawings or photographs of the adult habitus and male genitalia of each species, and of the larval habitus of the genus, are included, as well as a key to the adults of the species and revised couplets for insertion into existing adult and larval keys to the Elmidae. The biogeography, habitat, and microhabitat of the species are discussed. Aquatic liverworts are the unusual primary microhabitat of all three species of Bryelmis.
Stereo matching using a neural network

A polynomial is fitted to find a smooth continuous intensity function in a window and the first-order intensity derivatives are estimated. A neural network is then used to implement the matching procedure under the epipolar, photometric and smoothness constraints, using the estimated first-order derivatives. Owing to the dense intensity derivatives, a dense array of disparities is generated with only a few iterations. The method does not require surface interpolation. Computer simulations to demonstrate the efficacy of the method are presented. >
Emotional expression and body dissatisfaction.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine the relation between emotional expression and body dissatisfaction in a sample of young women. Method: Participants were 141 female undergraduates. They were assessed for emotional expression, body dissatisfaction, nonassertiveness, and depressive symptoms. The unique relation between emotional expression and body dissatisfaction was analyzed using hierarchical multiple regression. Results: Emotional expression was related inversely to body dissatisfaction. This association was significant after controlling for body mass index, nonassertiveness, and depressive symptoms. Discussion: This is the first study to examine the link between emotional expression and body dissatisfaction. Findings are discussed in terms of possible strategies for modifying shape- and weight-related concerns in women.
Time-averaged electronic speckle pattern interferometry in the presence of ambient motion. Part I. Theory and experiments

An electronic speckle pattern interferometer is introduced that can produce time-averaged interferograms of harmonically vibrating objects in instances where it is impractical to isolate the object from ambient vibrations. By subtracting two images of the oscillating object, rather than the more common technique of subtracting an image of the oscillating object from one of the static objects, interferograms are produced with excellent visibility even when the object is moving relative to the interferometer. This interferometer is analyzed theoretically and the theory is validated experimentally.
Effect of PDE5 inhibition on coronary hemodynamics in pacing-induced heart failure.

Inhibition of phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) can relax systemic and coronary vessels by causing accumulation of cGMP. Both the endothelial dysfunction with decreased nitric oxide production and in...
Nonparametric Inference for Median Costs with Censored Data

Increasingly, estimations of health care costs are used to evaluate competing treatments or to assess the expected expenditures associated with certain diseases. In health policy and economics, the primary focus of these estimations has been on the mean cost, because the total cost can be derived directly from the mean cost, and because information about total resources utilized is highly relevant for policymakers. Yet, the median cost also could be important, both as an intuitive measure of central tendency in cost distribution and as a subject of interest to payers and consumers. In many prospective studies, cost data collection is sometimes incomplete for some subjects due to right censoring, which typically is caused by loss to follow-up or by limited study duration. Censoring poses a unique challenge for cost data analysis because of so-called induced informative censoring, in that traditional methods suited for survival data generally are invalid in censored cost estimation. In this article, we propose methods for estimating the median cost and its confidence interval (CI) when data are subject to right censoring. We also consider the estimation of the ratio and difference of two median costs and their CIs. These methods can be extended to the estimation of other quantiles and other informatively censored data. We conduct simulation and real data analysis in order to examine the performance of the proposed methods.
2007 Guideline Update for Unstable Angina/Non–ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction: Focus on Antiplatelet and Anticoagulant Therapies

Objective:To summarize key changes in the 2007 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) guideline recommendations for pharmacologic therapy as they relate to antiplatelets and anticoagulants, and to evaluate the evidence from several landmark trials that was used to support the guideline updates for these agents.Data Sources:Literature was accessed through MEDLINE (1950–January 2008) using the search terms acute coronary syndromes, unstable angina (UA), non–ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), antiplatelet, and anticoagulant. All papers were cross-referenced to identify additional studies,Study Selection and Data Extraction:ACC/AHA guidelines, relevant original research articles, and review articles were evaluated. Studies with more than 1000 patients were the focus of the review.Data Synthesis:UA and NSTEMI are the most common presentations of acute coronary syndrome. The recently updated ACC/AHA guidelines for management of this condition were based on signific...
A Within-Industry Comparison of Employed Mothers' Experiences in Small and Large Workplaces:

This research focuses on links between mothers' perceptions of their parenting practices, their parenting values, and their children's behavior and the work conditions they experience in small and large workplaces. We explored both direct and indirect (via work-family tension) relationships. We found significant relationships between work conditions and parenting, and significant differences between small and large workplaces, even when background characteristics were controlled. In larger workplaces, work conditions reflecting structural and hierarchical aspects of work were more likely to be related to parenting: schedule demands, supervision, and benefits. In smaller workplaces, work conditions reflecting the process of completing work tasks were more likely to be associated with parenting; these were substantive complexity of work and relationships with coworkers.
Psychophysical Measurements of Enhancement, Suppression, and Surface Gradient Effects in Vibrotaction

Twelve years ago at the First International Symposium on the Skin Senses held in Tallahassee (Kenshalo, 1968), it was proposed that the pattern theory of mechanoreception was not sufficient to explain the results of an extensive series of psychophysical experiments (Verrillo, 1968). At that time it was demonstrated that our perception of repetitive mechanical stimuli is mediated by at least two types of end organs in cutaneous tissue and their accompanying neural systems (Verrillo, 1963, 1966a,b, 1968). The duplex model was consistent, In part, with the limited knowledge we had at that time of the physiological response of specific end organs (Sato, 1961). Subsequent experimentation performed in other laboratories later verified or supported this model (Harrington and Merzenich, 1970; Lindblom, 1965; Merzenich and Harrington, 1969; Talbot et al., 1968). The development of techniques for microneurography in humans (Vallbo and Hagbarth, 1968) gave strong support for the position that at least two neural systems subserve our appreciation of vibration on the skin (Jarvilehto, Hamalainen, and Laurinen, 1976; Knibestol and Vallbo, 1970; Knibestol, 1973; Konietzny and Hensel, 1977; and others).
Triggered rapid degradation of nanoparticles for gene delivery.

Effective gene delivery tools offer the possibility of addressing multiple diseases; current strategies rely on viruses or polyplexes. Encapsulation of DNA within nanoparticles is an attractive alternative method for gene delivery. We investigated the use of our recently developed Logic Gate Nanoparticle for gene delivery. The nanoparticles, composed of a dual pH response random copolymer (poly-β-aminoester ketal-2), can undergo a two-step “in series” response to endosomal pH. The first sep is a hydrophobic-hydrophilic switch, which is followed immediately by rapid degradation. Rapid fragmentation is known to increase cytoplasmic delivery from nanoparticles. Therefore, we hypothesized that our Logic Gate Nanoparticles would enable increased gene delivery and expression relative to nanoparticles that degrade more slowly such as PLGA-based nanoparticles. Passive nanoparticle entry into cells was demonstrated by delivering Cy5-labeled pDNA encoding EGFP into HCT116, a colon carcinoma cell line. Flow cytometry analysis showed that cells are positive for Cy5-DNA-nanoparticles and produced EGFP expression superior to PLGA nanoparticles. Inhibition of V-ATPases using bafilomycin A1 demonstrates that expression of EGFP is dependent on low endosomal pH. The advanced Logic Gate Nanoparticles offer new therapeutic possibilities in gene delivery and other applications where rapid release is important.
Ibuprofen Ingestion in Ferrets: 43 Cases January 1995–March 2000)

Objective: To summarize typical clinical signs, characterize the anticipated course of action, and give treatment recommendations for ibuprofen ingestion in ferrets. Design: Retrospective study Patients: Records of 43 cases of ibuprofen ingestion in ferrets that were reported between January 1996-March 2000, to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC). Measurements and Main Results: Twenty-seven (93.1%) ferrets that had ingested ibuprofen developed neurologic signs, such as depression, coma, ataxia, recumbency, tremors, and weakness. In addition, 16 cases (55.2%) had one or more GI effects including anorexia, vomiting, retching or gagging, diarrhea, and melena. Polydipsia, polyuria, dysuria, renal failure, weight loss, shallow breathing, metabolic acidosis, dehydration, and hypothermia were also reported. Death was reported in 4 cases. The lowest dose associated with death was 220 mg/kg. Conclusion: Data in this study indicate that clinical signs of ibuprofen toxicosis in ferrets are more severe than those expected at similar dosages in dogs. The reason for this difference is poorly understood since the pathophysiology of ibuprofen is relatively unknown in ferrets. The onset of clinical signs appeared to occurr soon after ingestion and the toxic effects in ferrets typically involve the CNS, GI and renal systems. Treatment for ibuprofen toxicosis in the ferret includes stabilization, gastrointestinal decontamination, fluid diuresis, GI protection, and supportive care.(J Vet Emerg Crit Care 2001; 11(1):53–59)