cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abstract P782: Bioimpedance as a Means to Quantify Clot Composition and Guide Selection of Thrombectomy Devices

Introduction: Recent studies suggest that suction based thrombectomy leads to better recanalization with RBC-rich clots while stent-retrievers perform better with fibrin-rich clots. The ability to ...
An Effective Seafile Dockerfile for Raspberry Pi to Make Docker YAML Files for Treehouses.

Seafile is an open-source, cross-platform, self-hosting file share/sync application. It is installed and configured Seafile via Treehouses, which provides useful functions that host web services on the Tor network. There is no maintainable Docker container of Seafile for the wide range of Raspberry Pis, including RPI0, 3, and 4. Therefore, a custom Seafile Docker container had to be made for the wide range of Raspberry Pis allowing users to install and configure Seafile through Treehouses command. Since the Seafile Dockerfile is old, there were several issues that needed to be resolved for the newer Seafile to work in the Docker container. This paper will explain the process of revising the old Dockerfile and making the YAML file for the Seafile container. The almost all issues pertaining to the revision of the Seafile Dockerfile occurred because the old Dockerfile and configuration script cannot deal with the dependencies and configuration settings of the newer version of Seafile. When the YAML file was made for Treehouses, it required a few of tweaking the Seafile configuration to make the file exchange function work. In addition, the analyze of the troubleshooting during the project suggested that the most crucial technique to revise an old Dockerfile is to be aware of the version of the software.
Determining the optimal follicle size at trigger in patients undergoing ovarian stimulation with a clomiphene citrate plus gonadotropin and GnRH antagonist protocol for in vitro fertilization.

Objective Determine the optimal follicle size at trigger in clomiphene citrate-based IVF protocols. Study design This is a retrospective cohort study performed in at a single academic institution that included first IVF cycles with clomiphene citrate-based protocols at our center between 01/01/2013-03/31/2019. Patients were dichotomized by whether they had ≥2 follicles >20 mm on trigger day. Group A consisted of patients with 20 mm on trigger day and Group B consisted of patients with ≥2 follicles >20 mm on trigger day. The primary outcome was the number of mature oocytes retrieved. Secondary outcomes included pregnancy and live birth rates. Results A total of 635 patients were included: (Group A = 399 patients and Group B = 236 patients). The median (IQR) diameter of the largest follicle was 20.0 mm (19.0-21.0) in Group A and 22.7 mm (21.8-24.0) in Group B (p Conclusions In clomiphene citrate-based IVF protocols, administering the ovulatory trigger at larger follicle sizes yielded more total oocytes retrieved without a significant difference in mature oocyte number. In older patients, larger follicle sizes at trigger yielded more mature oocytes and zygotes per retrieval. Based on these results, in older patients it may be advantageous to administer the ovulatory trigger in clomiphene-based IVF cycles when two or more follicles measures >20 mm. However, this benefit was not observed when assessed among all ages combined.
Regulation of the sodium-activated potassium channel Slack by MAGI-1

The sodium-activated potassium subunit Slack (Kcnt1) is highly expressed in sensory neurons and contributes to firing accommodation. Previous studies have shown that protein kinase A-induced intern...
Factors influencing physician referrals of patients to clinical trials.

Purpose Initial trials in the NIH Parkinson’s disease (PD) network (NET-PD) included 91% Caucasian non-Latino patients, although PD is thought to be as common among African Americans and Latinos. Our purpose was to assess physicians’ attitudes and beliefs about patient recruitment, particularly minorities, into clinical trials. Methods We surveyed 200 physicians from areas near the NET-PD clinics with &≥40% African Americans or Latinos. Physicians were asked about attitudes toward research, likelihood of referring patients to PD trials and past research participation, and administered the Trust in Medical Researchers Scale (TIMRS). Using logistic regressions, we identified physician characteristics associated with patient referral to clinical trials. Results The TIMRS was lower among African-American physicians and physicians with high proportions of minority patients. Likelihood of trial referral was associated with previous referral to trials (OR=4.24, 95% CI: 2.09°8.62) and higher TIMRS (OR=1.06, 95% CI: 1.001-1.12). TIMRS results were similar among physicians not previously referring to trials. Conclusions Study results emphasize the importance of developing a trusting relationship with local physicians if investigators expect these physicians to refer their patients to clinical trials. The trust-related barriers for minority-serving physicians, regardless of their own race/ethnicity, seem to mirror the trust-related issues for their minority patients.
Can Neural Data Improve Economics

Researchers are exploring how neurobiology can guide economic experiments and refine economic models.
Student-Athlete Eligibility Rules Limiting Athletic Performance or Prohibiting Athletic Participation for Health Reasons Despite Medical Uncertainty: Legal and Ethical Considerations

This article analyzes the paradox between: 1) intercollegiate sport's objectives of maximizing athletic performance and providing athletic participation opportunities to those possessing the requisite physical ability and skills to compete successfully; and 2) National Collegiate Athletic Association rules that limit athletic performance by all student-athletes, or university requirements that prohibit individual student-athletes from participating in intercollegiate sports, for health reasons. Some student-athletes seek to maximize athletic performance by taking performance-enhancing substances, even if doing so creates potential future adverse health effects. Others may want to participate in intercollegiate sports with a physical abnormality and are willing to assume an increased risk or severity of injury beyond that inherent in the sport. However, the NCAA and its member universities, as producers and regulators of intercollegiate sports, have valid legal authority and ethical grounds to promulgate and enforce health, safety, and competition rules that limit the autonomy interests of adult student-athletes.
Effects of chronic nitrogen amendments on production of dissolved organic carbon and nitrogen in forest soils

Chronic N deposition has been hypothesized to affect DOC production in forest soils due to the carbon demand exerted by microbial immobilization of inorganic N. We tested this hypothesis in field experiments at the Harvard Forest, Petersham, Massachusetts, USA. During four years of sampling soil solution collected beneath the forest floor in zero-tension lysimeters, we observed little change in DOC concentrations (10-30% increase, not statistically significant) associated with elevated N inputs, but did observe significant increases in DON concentrations. Both DOC and DON varied seasonally with highest concentrations in summer and autumn. Mean DON concentrations increased 200-300 % with the highest rate of inorganic N fertilization, and concentrations of DON were highest in samples with high inorganic N concentrations. We conclude that the organic chemistry of soil solution undergoes qualitative changes as a result of long-term N amendment at this site, with small changes in DOC, large increases in DON, and a decline in the C:N ratio of dissolved organic matter.
Modeling and dynamic control for a hexapod robot

In the every expanding field of robotics, mobile robots come in a two primary variations: wheeled and legged. This paper will focus on the latter, specifically a hexapod with a circular body that has its six legs distributed axisymmetrically around the body. The core goal of the project discussed here is to allow the robot to dynamically change foot placement based on an input vector in addition to controlling the position and orientation of the body. Specific attention is also given to a simulation model that can mimic this control of the robot in a virtual environment. Having a high level of control enhances the robot's ability to move in a very smooth and purposeful manner.
Studies on the supracallosal mesial cortex of unanesthetized, conscious mammals. I. Cat. B. Electrical activity.

Abstract 1. 1. These studies feature recording from the supracallosal mesial cortex of the conscious, unanesthetized cat. 2. 2. Frequencies of 16–18/sec. are commonly seen in the short-termed seizure discharges from intensive electrical stimulation of the anterior limbic area. 3. 3. After numerous stimulations eliciting considerable epileptogenic activity, seizure discharges from the anterior limbic area show a decrease in the amount of faster 16–18/sec. seizure activity, an increase in the amount of the (slower) subharmonic 8–9/sec. seizure activity and an increase in the threshold to seizure discharge. 4. 4. Full-blown electrographic seizures of the limbic area feature high amplitude 2–3/sec. spike and wavelike complexes, not usually seen on the lateral surface, but spreading to the hippocampus. 5. 5. Full-blown clinical seizures of the limbic area featuring bizarre behavior patterns and autonomic dysfunction are psychomotor-like in character. 6. 6. Photic driving of relatively high amplitude is seen well on the posterior mesial surface, especially at the frequency of 5/sec. Photic driving can also be seen on the most anterior portion of the mesial surface. 7. 7. The area showing photic driving of the highest amplitude varies according to the frequency of the light flashes. 8. 8. Responses resembling the K-complex of man are seen in the cat. 9. 9. The area on the mesial surface, showing the maximal amplitude of the response resembling the K-complex, is the anterior limbic area where sleep spindles of 12/sec. are also maximally represented.
Gender Bias: From Classes to Courts

At that time, I was working on articles about procedure, habeas corpus, and women in prison. I taught and wrote about all three topics. After a few years, I had to admit that my colleague's remarks were descriptively close to the mark. My virtually all-male colleagues were more interested in my work on procedure and federal courts, and less interested in my work on women in prisons. It was clear that, in those days, being a "player" in the legal academy meant playing in the "big time"-and the big time did not include issues associated with women. I have told this anecdote before, 1 and by its telling learned that my experience is neither idiosyncratic nor a tale particular to any law school in the United States. Unfortunately, this description is also not only of historical interest. In 1990, as chair of the Section on Women in Legal Education of the American Association of Law Schools, I repeatedly heard about the risks of being identified with "women's issues." Within the academic community, examples are legion of disinterest as well as hostility to feminist scholarship and commentary. Thus, the advice ("stay away from 'women's issues' ") is still given. But something has changed. Think about the words: "Be careful; don't teach in any area associated with women's issues." What is the referent for "women's issues"? The assumption is that there is a discrete set of concerns (family
ON RISK AND DECISION MAKING IN A FUZZY ENVIRONMENT

ABSTRACT A multistage decision process is a fuzzy mapping from X × UN → X where X and U are the state and policy spaces. Given the initial fuzzy set Si on X, the set of final fuzzy sets Sf on X has certain inclusive properties. Risk and optimum decisions are defined in terms of the inclusive properties.
Gene encoding sigma E is transcribed from a sigma A-like promoter in Bacillus subtilis

Bacillus subtilis produces several RNA polymerase sigma factors. At least two of these factors are essential for endospore formation, sigma H, which is present in vegetative cells, and sigma E, which is produced exclusively after the start of endospore formation. The structural gene that encodes sigma E is part of the spoIIG operon, which is transcribed after the onset of sporulation. We have determined the starting point of transcription and the nucleotide sequence of the spoIIG promoter. This promoter contains sequences that are similar to those found at the -10 and -35 regions of promoters that are used by E sigma A, the primary form of RNA polymerase in vegetative cells. The unusual feature of this promoter is that these putative sigma A contact sites are separated by 22 base pairs, rather than the typical 17 or 18 base pairs. Single-base substitutions in the -10-like sequence reduced utilization of the spoIIG promoter in vivo. Furthermore, E sigma A, but not E sigma H and other secondary forms of RNA polymerase, accurately initiated transcription from the spoIIG promoter in an in vitro assay; therefore, we suggest that E sigma A transcribes the spoIIG operon in vivo. A base substitution in the -35-like sequence caused constitutive transcription from the promoter in vegetative cells; therefore, regulation of this sporulation-specific transcription may involve a novel mechanism.
Fuzzy without Fuzzy: Why Fuzzy-Related Aggregation Techniques Are Often Better Even in Situations without True Fuzziness

Fuzzy techniques have been originally invented as a methodology that transforms the knowledge of experts formulated in terms of natural language into a precise computer-implementable form. There are many successful applications of this methodology to situations in which expert knowledge exist, the most well known is an application to fuzzy control.
Analog front end IC for 3G WCDMA

Presents the world's first integrated analog front-end (AFE) and audio codec IC supporting the WCDMA standard. This chip was fabricated on Intel's 0.18 /spl mu/m flash+logic+analog (FLA) process technology using a 0.35 /spl mu/m feature size analog transistor. The AFE transmit path contains a 10-bit segmented R2R D/A, self-calibrated active RC filter and programmable gain amplifier (PGA) with a self tuning offset correction circuit. The receive path includes a programmable gain active RC filter and an 8-bit A/D with built-in offset correction. The AFE operates at 2.7 V with a current consumption of 55 mA, and total active area of 15 mm/sup 2/.
Endogenous activation of dopamine D2 receptors regulates dopamine release in the fish retina.

Wang, Yu, Krisztina Harsanyi, and Stuart C. Mangel. Endogenous activation of dopamine D2 receptors regulates dopamine release in the fish retina. J. Neurophysiol. 78: 439–449, 1997. In the fish ret...
Post-Miocene diagenetic and eustatic history of Enewetak Atoll: Model and data comparison

The post-Miocene diagenetic and eustatic history of Enewetak Atoll was investigated using a one-dimensional forward model. Comparison of model and data suggests that the post-Miocene history of Enewetak Atoll was dominated by multiple episodes of meteoric phreatic diagenesis attendant with high-frequency (10{sup 4} to 10{sup 5} yr) fluctuations in sea level and a subsidence rate of 39.0 m/m.y. Sensitivity testing indicates that subaerial erosion results in the preservation of additional subaerial unconformities because stratigraphic shortening permits a succeeding sea-level rise to flood the exposure surface and deposit sediment, whereas without subaerial erosion this sea-level rise would be recorded as a paleophreatic lens. Model results indicate that less then 10% of lapsed time is recorded by sediment deposition during periods of high-frequency changes in sea level. Incompleteness of the stratigraphic record suggest that magnetostratigraphy may give erroneous ages for shallow-marine carbonate sequences deposited during times of high-frequency changes in sea level and frequent magnetic polarity reversals.
Measuring Upper and Lower Airway Resistance During Sleep with the Forced Oscillation Technique

The forced oscillation technique (FOT) is a non-invasive technique to monitor airway obstruction in those with asthma. The aim of this study was to design and validate a system to use FOT during sleep, both with and without bi-level positive airway pressure (BPAP), and to separate upper airway resistance from lower. 8 Hz pressure oscillations were supplied, over which the subject breathed, pressure and flow measurements were then used to calculate impedance. A phase-shift induced by the pressure transducer tubing was characterized, and FOT resistance was compared to steady flow resistance both with and without BPAP. A Millar catheter was used to measure pressure at the epiglottis, allowing the separation of upper from lower airway resistance. A phase shift of −0.010 s was calculated for the pressure transducer tubing, and the average error between FOT and steady flow resistance was −0.2 ± 0.2 cmH2O/L/s without BPAP and 0.4 ± 0.2 cmH2O/L/s with BPAP. The system was tested on three subjects, one healthy, one with obstructive sleep apnea, and one with asthma. The FOT was well tolerated and resistance was separated into upper and lower airway components. This setup is suitable for monitoring both upper and lower airway obstruction during sleep in those with and without asthma.
Gas Permeability of Lightweight Ceramic Ablators

Many lightweight thermal protection system (TPS) materials have a large degree of open porosity, which can make them highly permeable to gas flow. Recently, a permeability measurement apparatus was constructed to test rigid, porous TPS materials. This note presents further gas permeability, made with this apparatus, on two lightweight ceramic ablator materials; viz., phenolic impregnated carbon ablator and silicone impregnated reusable ceramic ablator
Further observations on the purification and properties of autoprothrombin III (Factor X)

Abstract Autoprothrombin III (Factor X) was separated from purified bovine prothrombin complex by chromatography on DEAE-cellulose and filtration through a Sephadex G-100 column. It had the same amino acid composition and approximately the same sedimentation characteristics in the ultracentrifuge as the first product obtained in this laboratory. The sedimentation constant was 3.58S. The product was studied by disc gel electrophoresis over a wide pH range. It was free of autoprothrombin C (Factor Xa), was stable, and had no tendency to activate spontaneously. On the basis of 27 Sephadex filtration experiments, the molecular weight was 81,900 ± 2,770. For autoprothrombin C, it was 53,500; by another method, it was 58,000. The N-terminal amino acids were alanine and serine, while those for autoprothrombin C were glycine and serine. Peptide maps for the zymogen and enzyme were similar except there were fewer peptides on the map of the latter. Based on a specific activity of 1,200 u/mg and a plasma concentration of 30 u/ml, the concentration of autoprothrombin III in bovine plasma most likely ranges from 2–3 mg%.
Heterogeneity in the Determinants of Local Self-Employment Growth by Gender, Age and Selected Industry

Hammond G. W. and Gurley-Calvez T. Heterogeneity in the determinants of local self-employment growth by gender, age and selected industry, Regional Studies. This study explores the determinants of self-employment growth across US regions and by gender, age group and industry. It uses Public Use Micro Sample (PUMS) data for the 2000–2006 period and finds that self-employment growth was faster for women than for men; that growth in the 45–64-year age group outpaced growth in the age 20–44-year group; and that growth was much faster in professional and business services than in healthcare. The regression results suggest that there is significant heterogeneity in the impact of regional characteristics on self-employment growth by gender, age group and industry.
Somatostatin receptor 1 selective analogues: 4. Three-dimensional consensus structure by NMR.

The three-dimensional NMR structures of six analogues of somatostatin (SRIF) are described. These analogues with the amino acid 4-(N-isopropyl)-aminomethylphenylalanine (IAmp) at position 9 exhibit potent and highly selective binding to human SRIF subtype 1 receptors (sst1). The conformations reveal that the backbones of these analogues have a hairpin-like structure similar to the sst2-subtype-selective analogues. This structure serves as a scaffold for retaining a unique arrangement of the side chains of d-Trp8, IAmp9, Phe7, and Phe11 or m-I-Tyr11 (m-I-Tyr = mono-iodo-tyrosine). The conformational preferences and results from biological analyses of these analogues1,2 allow a detailed study of the structure−activity relationship of SRIF. The proposed consensus pharmacophore of the sst1-selective analogues requires a unique set of distances between an indole/2-naphthyl ring, an IAmp side chain, and two aromatic rings. This motif is necessary and sufficient to explain the binding affinities of all of the an...
Deep Convective Transition Characteristics in the Community Climate System Model and Changes under Global Warming

AbstractTropical deep convective transition characteristics, including precipitation pickup, occurrence probability, and distribution tails related to extreme events, are analyzed using uncoupled and coupled versions of the Community Climate System Model (CCSM) under present-day and global warming conditions. Atmospheric Model Intercomparison Project–type simulations using a 0.5° version of the uncoupled model yield good matches to satellite retrievals for convective transition properties analyzed as a function of bulk measures of water vapor and tropospheric temperature. Present-day simulations with the 1.0° coupled model show transition behavior not very different from that seen in the higher-resolution uncoupled version. Frequency of occurrence of column water vapor (CWV) for precipitating points shows reasonable agreement with the retrievals, including the longer-than-Gaussian tails of the distributions. The probability density functions of precipitating grid points collapse toward similar form when n...
Sedation of active acupuncture loci in the management of low back pain.

From 1971 to 1973 twenty-three consecutive patients with low back pain of undetermined etiology and two patients with arachnoiditis were treated by the sedation of active acupuncture loci located in the low back area. Sedation was accomplished by means of one to six injections of one-half milliliter of a local anesthetic at weekly intervals. Nineteen patients obtained complete relief and four patients were improved. The two patients wtih arachnoiditis showed no improvement.
Solubilization of orange OT and dimethylaminoazobenzene

1. Solubilization data have been obtained for aqueous solutions of Na-laurate, K- laute, dodecylamine-HCL, Tween 20, Span 20, N-dodecyl-alanine-HCl, Na-oleate, Tergitol 4, and Ultrawet K, using the water insoluble dyes, Orange OT, and dimethylaminoazobenzene as the solubilized substances. Results indicate that the dye solubility method is fairly reproducible. Filtration of samples was found to be an important part of the technique. 2. A slight excess of fatty acid or of alkali in Na- and K-laurate solutions was found to have no appreciable effect on solubilization. 2. In agreement with Kolthoff's but not with Mc-Bain's findings, the Na- and K-laurates were found to yield the same solubilization of either DMAB or Orange OT, indicating that the solubilizing species in solution depends upon the nature of the long chain ion. 4. Agreement on solubilization for dodecylamine-HCl with previous workers is poor. 5. The present work indicates no solubilization below the critical micelle concentration. The apparent solubilization reported by Kolthoff was attributed to suspended dye. 6. The use of solubilization data in the determination of critical micelle concentration is examined, and values are compared with previous works.
Temperature dependence of mechanical shear degradation

The rate of mechanical shear degradation of a 10% solution of Vistanex B-100 polyisobutene (viscosity-average molecular weight 1,740,000) in cetane has been studied at 60 and 80°C. at high rates of shear. The rate constants for the reaction at a given rate of shear energy application are found to decrease with temperature in this range. This result is interpreted as arising from a decreased efficiency at higher temperatures in the process of temporarily concentrating mechanical energy by means of intermolecular entanglements. The energy input requirements for degradation are found to increase with temperature.
Cognitive Assessment for the Youngest Children: A Critical Review of Tests:

Current norm-referenced cognitive measures (the Battelle Developmental Inventory, Bayley Scales of Infant Development-Second Edition, Cognitive Abilities Scale, Leiter International Performance Scale-Revised, Mullen Scales of Early Learning, and Stanford-Binet-Fourth Edition) were reviewed and evaluated in terms of their use with children from birth through 2 years of age. Also, relevant literature on issues critical to appropriate use of the tests is discussed. Careful evaluation of the strengths and problems of each test is critical to accurate diagnosis and evaluation of children's progress. To aid psychologists responsible for assessing the youngest children, variables relevant to test selection and interpretation are discussed.
Effect of Peroxisome Proliferators on Leydig Cell Peripheral-Type Benzodiazepine Receptor Gene Expression, Hormone-Stimulated Cholesterol Transport, and Steroidogenesis: Role of the Peroxisome Proliferator-Activator Receptor α

In this study, we hypothesized that many of the reported effects of phthalate esters and other peroxisome proliferators (PPs) in the testis are mediated by members of the PPactivated receptor (PPAR) family of transcription factors through alterations in proteins involved in steroidogenesis. Exposure of Leydig cells to PPs prevented cholesterol transport into the mitochondria after hormonal stimulation and inhibited steroid synthesis, without altering total cell protein synthesis or mitochondrial and DNA integrity. PPs also reduced the levels of the cholesterol-binding protein peripheraltype benzodiazepine receptor (PBR) because of a direct transcriptional inhibition of PBR gene expression in MA-10 Leydig cells. MA-10 cells contain mRNAs for PPAR and PPAR/, but not for PPAR. In vivo treatment of mice with PPs resulted in the reduction of both testis PBR mRNA and circulating testosterone levels, in agreement with the proposed role of PBR in steroidogenesis. By contrast, liver PBR mRNA levels were increased, in agreement with the proposed role of PBR in cell growth/tumor formation in nonsteroidogenic tissues. However, PPs did not inhibit testosterone production and testis PBR expression in PPAR-null mice. These results suggest that the antiandrogenic effect of PPs is mediated by a PPARdependent inhibition of Leydig cell PBR gene expression. (Endocrinology 143: 2571–2583, 2002)
Bactericidal Capacity of Neutrophils in Rabbits with Experimental Acute and Chronic Abscesses

Bacteria persist within abscesses despite the presence of neutrophils, and patients with abscesses have high rates of subsequent infections. A model was developed to study neutrophil function in rabbits with Staphylococcus aureus abscesses. Blood neutrophils from rabbits with 2-week-old (chronic) abscesses had diminished bactericidal capacity and decreased superoxide production compared with rabbits with 24-h (acute) abscesses. Rabbits with chronic abscesses did not produce serum opsonic factors that enhanced bacterial killing. A bactericidal assay performed with chronic abscess fluid in the suspending medium revealed inhibition of neutrophil killing. The inhibition could be replicated with a neutrophil lysate but not by an S. aureus supernatant. Rabbits with chronic abscesses have diminished blood neutrophil bactericidal capacity and superoxide formation, and the abscess fluid milieu is inhibitory to neutrophil function.
Priming Bush and Iraq in 2008: A Survey Experiment

Using a question-order experiment, half the respondents in a national RDD (random digit dial) likely voter survey taken just prior to the 2008 Presidential Primary election were primed to think about President Bush and the war in Iraq before making their candidate choice. Results show that the priming had a significant effect on their candidate choice, and that priming individuals to think about the war significantly aided the candidacy of eventual Democratic nominee Barack Obama, more than doubling his support, and hurt then Republican front-runner Rudy Giuliani, cutting his support almost in half.
Attentional Processes in Mildly Depressed and Non-Depressed Able Elderly

Abstract This investigation examined how aging and depression impact attentional performance. It was hypothesized that age and depression would have differential effects on attentional performance, depending on task complexity. A model of cognitive aging addressed attentional resources, task complexity, and efficiency of inhibitory processes. The interaction of age and depression was predicted to be more deleterious on performance of complex attentional tasks, than either age or depression alone. The sample was composed of 155 able elderly volunteers of ages 55 to 93. Although both increased age and depression were associated with decreased performance on complex attentional tasks, this interaction did not explain additional variance beyond the main effects. Results revealed mood-related depressive symptoms impact performance of overlearned functions in the younger elderly, while neurovegetative depressive symptoms were related to poorer psychomotor performance of the older elderly. Implications of the fi...
A survey of automated visual inspection

In this paper, we survey the automated visual inspection systems and techniques that have been reported in the literature from 1988 to 1993. Several earlier systems are also discussed. In the survey, a taxonomy of inspection systems based on their sensory input is presented. The general benefits and feasibility of automated visual inspection are also discussed. We present common approaches to visual inspection and also consider the specification and analysis of dimensional tolerances and their influence on the inspection task(s). One of the recent developments in automated visual inspection, namely the expanded role of computer-aided design (CAD) data in many systems, is examined in detail.
Properties of an estrogen-induced hydrolytic enzyme from mouse uterus☆

Abstract The purification and properties of an estradiol-sensitive hydrolytic activity from mouse uterus which fits several criteria for being an induced protein are described. The activity in the uteri of immature animals can be stimulated 2–4-fold by estradiol to that approaching the adult level. Stimulation is blocked by puromycin. The enzyme which we have designated hydrolase II, was purified approx. 400-fold to apparent homogeneity by chromatography on Affigel Blue, DEAE-cellulose and octyl-Sepharose. Hydrolase II is a single chain polypeptide with an estimated mol. wt = 65,000 daltons and has an N-terminal serine residue. A variety of N-blocked l -amino acid nitrophenyl esters are cleaved by the enzyme. Km's at pH 7.2 were all approx. 40 μm. Of substrates tested, phenylalanine nitrophenyl ester had the highest Vmax Cbz-β-alanine nitrophenyl ester, which is not a normal protease substrate was cleaved with a Km of 145 μM. The enzyme had no detectable activity against peptide nitroanilide substrates for trypsin-, chymotrypsin- or elastase-like enzymes. It is inhibited by ZPCK and DIFP but not by TLCK and Ala-Ala-Pro-Ala chloromethyl ketone, a potent inhibitor of elastase-like enzymes. Mouse plasma protein protease inhibitors were without effect as was SBTI. Our results rule out hydrolase II being a carnosinase, non-serine esterase, plasminogen activator, collagenase or collagenase activator and suggest that it is a chymotrypsin-like protease.
Approach for determining the refractive-index profile of graded-index planar waveguides

We measured the modal indices of a planar waveguide made from GeSeSb glass sandwiched between SiO2 and air by using the prism-coupling technique. Based on the measured indices of the TE modes, we determined the position of the turning point corresponding to each mode of the waveguide by using the inverse WKB method. Using the modified fitting criterion introduced previously [Appl. Opt. 33, 3227 (1994)], we accurately determined the spatial profile of the refractive index for such a waveguide. Such a graded-index profile is probably caused by compositional variation of the GeSeSb guiding layer.
Relative abundance and size of coastal sharks derived from commercial shark longline catch and effort data

In the north-west Atlantic Ocean, stock assessments conducted for some commercially harvested coastal sharks indicate declines from 64 to 80% with respect to virgin population levels. While the status of commercially important species is available, abundance trend information for other coastal shark species in the north-west Atlantic Ocean are unavailable. Using a generalized linear modelling (GLM) approach, a relative abundance index was derived from 1994 to 2009 using observer data collected in a commercial bottom longline fishery. Trends in abundance and average size were estimated for bull shark Carcharhinus leucas, spinner shark Carcharhinus brevipinna, tiger shark Galeocerdo cuvier and lemon shark Negaprion brevirostris. Increases in relative abundance for all shark species ranged from 14% for C. brevipinna, 12% for C. leucas, 6% for N. brevirostris and 3% for G. cuvier. There was no significant change in the size at capture over the time period considered for all species. While the status of shark populations should not be based exclusively on abundance trend information, but ultimately on stock assessment models, results from this study provide some cause for optimism on the status of these coastal shark species.
Performance analyses of communications receivers employing wavelet-domain minimum mean-squared error equalizers

In this paper the strategy of Minimum Mean-Squared Error (MMSE) equalization of Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT) coefficients of received signals is applied in communications receivers. Specifically, the performance of such wavelet-based receivers under a diverse range of conditions is systematically evaluated with the use of Monte Carlo simulations. To determine the robustness of this new type of receiver processing strategy multipath fading channels, four different wavelets, and 16-symbol Quadrature Amplitude Modulation (16-QAM) are used. All faded signals are corrupted with Additive White Gaussian Noise (AWGN). For each case the system performance is quantified by Symbol Error Rates (SERs) obtained from the Monte Carlo simulations. The resulting SER curves show that the performance of DWT-based MMSE equalization is similar to the method implemented in discrete time-domain. Hence, DWT-based MMSE equalization is an effective and practicable technique that can be used in communications receivers. In particular the method can be used in agile radio receivers built upon a wavelet-domain signal processing platform.
Changing beliefs concerning the causes of pollution.

(1979). Changing Beliefs concerning the Causes of Pollution. The Journal of Social Psychology: Vol. 107, No. 2, pp. 295-296.
Shear Instabilities as a Probe of Jupiter's Atmosphere

Linear wave patterns in Jupiter's clouds with wavelengths strongly clustered around 300 km are commonly observed in the planet's equatorial atmosphere (F. M. Flasar and P. J. Gierasch, 1986, J. Atmos. Sci.43, 2683–2707). We propose that the preferred wavelength is related to the thickness of an unstable shear layer within the clouds (A. P. Ingersoll and D. W. Koerner 1989, Bull. Am. Astron. Soc.21, 943). We numerically analyze the linear stability of wavelike disturbances that have nonzero horizontal phase speeds in Jupiter's atmosphere and find that, if the static stability in the shear layer is very low (but still nonnegative), a deep vertical shear layer like the one measured by the Galileo probe (D. H. Atkinson et al. 1998, J. Geophys. Res.103, 22911–22928) can generate the instabilities. The fastest growing waves grow exponentially within an hour, and their wavelengths match the observations. Close to zero values of static stability that permit the growth of instabilities are within the range of values measured by the Galileo probe in a hot spot (A. Seiff et al. 1998, J. Geophys. Res.103, 22857–22889). Our model probes Jupiter's equatorial atmosphere below the cloud deck and suggests that thick regions of wind shear and low static stability exist outside hot spots.
Return to estrus and endocrine patterns in early postpartum, spring-lambing ewes treated with melatonin

Abstract Effects of exogenous melatonin during the early postpartum period on endocrine patterns and return to estrus were examined in 18 mature (3 to 6 years) Debouillet ewes. Six ewes received daily (i.m.) injections of 2 ml safflower oil at 1600 hours beginning on Day 8 post partum (Day 0 = parturition) and continuing through Day 28. The remaining 12 ewes (6/group) received similar injections except the safflower oil contained either 2.5 or 5 mg melatonin. Serum was collected hourly from all animals on Days 8 and 27 from 1600 hours (before treatment) to 2200 hours and at 0630 hours on the following morning. Samples were collected frequently after injection (i.m.) of GnRH (50 μg/ewe) on Day 29. Daily blood samples were taken on Days 8 through 29 and on alternate days from Day 30 through Day 38, and progesterone was determined to monitor ovarian cyclicity. Ewe weights were not affected (P > 0.20) by melatonin. Lamb weights on Days 7, 32 and 60 were not affected by maternal melatonin treatment; however, adjusted weaning weight (21.8, 23.7 and 24.7 ± 1.3 kg, respectively) increased linearly (P = 0.13) with increasing melatonin treatment. Serum growth hormone, insulin and LH were unaffected (P > 0.10) by exogenous melatonin. However, serum prolactin decreased linearly in ewes treated with 0, 2.5 or 5 mg melatonin on both Days 8 and 27. Serum progesterone remained below 1 ng/ml in all ewes during the first 38 days post partum, indicating that ovarian cyclicity was not induced by melatonin. Interval from parturition to return to estrus was not reduced (P = 0.13) by exogenous melatonin between Days 8 and 28 post partum. Melatonin administration increased serum melatonin and decreased serum prolactin but did not influence early postpartum cyclicity in spring-lambing Debouillet ewes.
Patterns of resource use within a population of xanthid crabs occupying bryozoan colonies

Heads, i.e. colonies, of the bryozoan Schizoporella pungens are discrete resource units which protect the xanthid crab Pilumnus sayi from predation. The heads were spatially clumped, temporally stable, and differed both qualitatively and quantitatively. The number of adult P. sayi was equal to the number of heads with preferred characteristics, yet a relative shortage of this resource is suggested with concomitant intraspecific competition. Adult crabs occupied heads individually except for infrequent cases of double occupancy by a male and female. Further spatial pattern among crabs was consistent with a hypothesis that males defend clumps of heads occupied by females.
IL-13 dampens human airway epithelial innate immunity through induction of IL-1 receptor–associated kinase M

Background Impaired airway mucosal immunity can contribute to increased respiratory tract infections in asthmatic patients, but the involved molecular mechanisms have not been fully clarified. Airway epithelial cells serve as the first line of respiratory mucosal defense to eliminate inhaled pathogens through various mechanisms, including Toll-like receptor (TLR) pathways. Our previous studies suggest that impaired TLR2 function in T H 2 cytokine–exposed airways might decrease immune responses to pathogens and subsequently exacerbate allergic inflammation. IL-1 receptor–associated kinase M (IRAK-M) negatively regulates TLR signaling. However, IRAK-M expression in airway epithelium from asthmatic patients and its functions under a T H 2 cytokine milieu remain unclear. Objectives We sought to evaluate the role of IRAK-M in IL-13–inhibited TLR2 signaling in human airway epithelial cells. Methods We examined IRAK-M protein expression in epithelia from asthmatic patients versus that in normal airway epithelia. Moreover, IRAK-M regulation and function in modulating innate immunity (eg, TLR2 signaling) were investigated in cultured human airway epithelial cells with or without IL-13 stimulation. Results IRAK-M protein levels were increased in asthmatic airway epithelium. Furthermore, in primary human airway epithelial cells, IL-13 consistently upregulated IRAK-M expression, largely through activation of phosphoinositide 3-kinase pathway. Specifically, phosphoinositide 3-kinase activation led to c-Jun binding to human IRAK-M gene promoter and IRAK-M upregulation. Functionally, IL-13–induced IRAK-M suppressed airway epithelial TLR2 signaling activation (eg, TLR2 and human β-defensin 2), partly through inhibiting activation of nuclear factor κB. Conclusions Our data indicate that epithelial IRAK-M overexpression in T H 2 cytokine–exposed airways inhibits TLR2 signaling, providing a novel mechanism for the increased susceptibility of infections in asthmatic patients.
The likelihood ratio test for a change-point in simple linear regression

SUMMARY We consider likelihood ratio tests to detect a change-point in simple linear regression (a) when the alternative specifies that only the intercept changes and (b) when the alternative permits the intercept and the slope to change. Approximations for the significance level are obtained under reasonably general assumptions about the empirical distribution of the independent variable. The approximations are compared with simulations in order to assess their accuracy. For the model in which only the intercept is allowed to change, a confidence region for the change-point and an approximate joint confidence region for the change-point, the difference in intercepts, and the slope are obtained by inversion of the appropriate likelihood ratio tests.
Various On-Chip Sensors with Microfluidics for Biological Applications

In this paper, we review recent advances in on-chip sensors integrated with microfluidics for biological applications. Since the 1990s, much research has concentrated on developing a sensing system using optical phenomena such as surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) to improve the sensitivity of the device. The sensing performance can be significantly enhanced with the use of microfluidic chips to provide effective liquid manipulation and greater flexibility. We describe an optical image sensor with a simpler platform for better performance over a larger field of view (FOV) and greater depth of field (DOF). As a new trend, we review consumer electronics such as smart phones, tablets, Google glasses, etc. which are being incorporated in point-of-care (POC) testing systems. In addition, we discuss in detail the current optical sensing system integrated with a microfluidic chip.
Measurement of ground-penetrating radar antenna patterns using modulated scatterers

The measurement of radiation patterns of antennas in air is relatively straightforward. In contrast, the measurement of the underground pattern for ground-penetrating radar (GPR) antennas poses particular challenges. Since GPRs are equipped with transmitting and receiving paths, the combined pattern is the most useful. To measure this pattern, a probe (scatterer) can be used to reflect part of the received signal back to the receiving antenna. However, the processing on the receiving end must determine whether or not that signal comes from the probe (“desired”) or from the soil or other objects (“undesired.”) These two issues can be addressed by using a modulated scatterer, i.e., a scatterer that is modulated at a frequency much less than the carrier frequency. The modulation can be realized either electrically or optically. The advantage of the optical approach is that spurious reflections are greatly reduced since an optical fiber is used instead of current-carrying metallic cables. The electrical approach, however, allows for deeper modulation levels, which increases the level of “desired” signal at the receiver. Another issue is related to the bandwidth of the scatterer. Since GPRs are generally very broadband, it is of interest to measure their broadband radiation patterns. The scatterers in the present work are successfully made broadband by resistively loading them. The results and trade-offs resulting from this technique are shown. In summary, the modulated scatterer technique is verified to be useful for these purposes. Experiments are realized in air and underground and the corresponding radiation patterns of a set of GPR antennas are shown.
Identification of phosphatase 2A‐like Sit4‐mediated signalling and ubiquitin‐dependent protein sorting as modulators of caffeine sensitivity in S. cerevisiae

Caffeine exerts pleiotropic effects on eukaryotic cells via its ability to act as a low-affinity adenosine analogue. Here we report that the genes HSE1, RTS3, SDS23 and SDS24 confer caffeine resistance when overexpressed in S. cerevisiae. The Hse1 protein functions in ubiquitin-dependent vacuolar protein sorting, whereas the other proteins are poorly characterized. Bioinformatic analysis of genetic and physical interaction data linked Rts3 and Sds23/24 to the phosphatase 2A-like Sit4 pathway. Combinatorial deletions of the identified suppressor genes conferred varying levels of caffeine hypersensitivity. For hse1Δ and rts3Δ mutants, caffeine sensitivity was partially rescued by sorbitol osmostabilization, suggesting possible cell wall integrity defects in these strains. Rapamycin sensitivity experiments linked the caffeine sensitivity of rts3Δ, but not that of sds23/24Δ or hse1Δ strains, to inhibition of the TORC1 kinase complex, a central regulator of cell growth and a known caffeine target. Epistasis experiments support a model in which Rts3 and Sds23/24 act in parallel to negatively regulate Sit4, while Hse1 confers caffeine resistance via a separate pathway. In summary, this study identifies the Sit4 phosphatase pathway and membrane protein dynamics as key modulators of caffeine-mediated inhibition of yeast cell growth and proposes novel functions for Rts3 and Sds23/24. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Neuronal Coding by Cortical Cells of the Frequency of Oscillating Peripheral Stimuli

One class of neurons in the somatic sensory cortex of unanesthetized monkeys is rhythmically entrained by sinusoidal mechanical stimulation of the skin of the hand at low frequencies. A second class, which is linked to Pacinian afferents, increases its rate of discharge in response to high-frequency peripheral stimuli but is not entrained. The vibratory sense is served by two distinct classes of cortical cells. The code for the group sensitive to low-frequency stimuli is the temporal order of impulses; for the high-frequency group the code is the labeled line.