cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pseudomonas fluorescens contamination of a feline packed red blood cell unit and studies of canine units

BACKGROUND While screening programs have reduced the risk of infectious disease transmission by donors in human and veterinary blood banking, bacterial contamination of blood products has emerged as a major complication in human medicine. OBJECTIVES To describe a Pseudomonas fluorescens (Pf)-contaminated feline packed RBC (pRBC) unit and experimentally investigate Pf-contaminated canine pRBCs. METHODS Canine pRBCs were inoculated with Pf-rich pRBCs from the sentinel feline unit and stored at 4 degrees C or 20 degrees C for 72 hours. Aliquots from the pRBCs were serially evaluated by microscopy, culture, and a eubacterial 16S rRNA real-time PCR assay. RESULTS One Pf-contaminated feline unit turned black after 22 days of storage and was removed from the blood bank; a source was not found, and no other contaminated units were identified. Canine pRBCs spiked with 5 or 25 microL of the sentinel unit became culture- and/or 16S PCR-positive at > or =8 hours at 20 degrees C and 48 hours at 4 degrees C and developed a color change at > or =24 hours. Sensitivity studies indicated that without incubation, inoculation of > or =100 microL Pf-rich pRBCs was necessary for a positive 16S PCR test result. CONCLUSIONS P. fluorescens grows in stored pRBCs slowly at 4 degrees C and rapidly at 20 degrees C. Screening of blood products for color change, estimating bacterial concentration with microscopy, and 16S PCR testing are simple and fast ways to detect bacteria in stored blood. Aseptic collection, temperature-controlled storage, and regular visual monitoring of stored units is recommended. Discolored units should not be transfused, but examined for bacterial contamination or other blood product quality problems.
2D 1H-133C heteronuclear correlation spectra of representative organic solids

Abstract A solid-state 2D 1 H- 13 C chemical-shift correlation experiment has been developed, refined, and applied to representative organic solids ranging from pure, powdered, crystalline compounds to lignite. During the 1 H chemical-shift evolution period a 48-pulse elaboration of a recently reported windowless 12-pulse sequence (BB-12) was applied in the 13 C channel for decoupling the 1 H- 13 C dipolar interaction, along with the windowless BLEW-48 for 1 H- 1 H dipolar decoupling. For 1 H → 13 C polarization transfer, the previously reported WIM-24 windowless sequence was used in both the 1 H and 13 C channels. Excellent 2D results are obtained, permitting 1 H peaks to benefit in resolution from the spread of 13 C chemical shifts. Prospects for future techniques and applications are discussed.
An overview and critique of advances in the treatment of alcohol use disorders

SUMMARY This article reviews recent developments in the field of alcoholism treatment research. The following major topics are addressed: the relative efficacy and cost-effectiveness of various treatment approaches, the use of brief interventions, the identification of patient-treatment matches and treatment processes that predict better outcomes, the efficacy of self-help groups, relapse prevention, the treatment of dual-diagnosis alcoholics, and pharmacotherapy. Under-studied and unresolved issues are identified and discussed, and suggestions are made concerning future research.
Structural requirements for catalysis and dimerization of human methionine adenosyltransferase I/III.

We have used site-directed mutagenesis to probe the structural requirements for catalysis and dimerization of human hepatic methionine adenosyltransferase (hMAT). We built a homology model of the dimeric hMAT III inferred by the crystal structure of the highly homologous Escherichia coli MAT dimer. The active sites of both enzymes comprise the same amino acids and are located in the inter-subunit interface. All of the amino acids predicted to be in the hMAT III active site were mutated, as well as residues in a conserved ATP binding region. All of the mutations except one severely affected catalytic activity. On the other hand, dimerization was affected only by single mutations of three different residues, all on one monomer. The homology model suggested that the side chains of these residues stabilized the monomer and participated in a bridge between subunits consisting of a network of metal and phosphate ions. In agreement with this observation, we demonstrated that dimerization cannot occur in the absence of phosphate.
Fibrinogen-induced increased pial venular permeability in mice

Elevated blood level of Fibrinogen (Fg) is commonly associated with vascular dysfunction. We tested the hypothesis that at pathologically high levels, Fg increases cerebrovascular permeability by activating matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Fibrinogen (4 mg/mL blood concentration) or equal volume of phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) was infused into male wild-type (WT; C57BL/6J) or MMP-9 gene knockout (MMP9−/−) mice. Pial venular leakage of fluorescein isothiocyanate-bovine serum albumin to Fg or PBS alone and to topically applied histamine (10−5 mol/L) were assessed. Intravital fluorescence microscopy and image analysis were used to assess cerebrovascular protein leakage. Pial venular macromolecular leakage increased more after Fg infusion than after infusion of PBS in both (WT and MMP9−/−) mice but was more pronounced in WT compared with MMP9−/− mice. Expression of vascular endothelial cadherin (VE-cadherin) was less and plasmalemmal vesicle-associated protein-1 (PV-1) was greater in Fg-infused than in PBS-infused both mice groups. However, in MMP9−/− mice, VE-cadherin expression was greater and PV-1 expression was less than in WT mice. These data indicate that at higher levels, Fg compromises microvascular integrity through activation of MMP-9 and downregulation of VE-cadherin and upregulation of PV-1. Our results suggest that elevated blood level of Fg could have a significant role in cerebrovascular dysfunction and remodeling.
On an algebra determined by a quartic curve of genus one

Abstract Let k be a field of characteristic not two. To each irreducible quartic f ( x ) over k we associate a certain algebra A f , given by explicit generators and relations. We prove A f is an Azumaya algebra of rank four over its center and that its center is the coordinate ring of an affine piece of an elliptic curve, the Jacobian of the curve C : y 2 = f ( x ) . Its simple images are quaternion algebras and the resulting function from the group of k-rational points on the Jacobian to the Brauer group of k is a group homomorphism whose image is the relative Brauer group of central simple k-algebra split by the function field of C. We also show that the algebra A f is split if and only if C has a k-rational point.
Photoluminescence Spectroscopy of Single CdSe Nanocrystallite Quantum Dots.

We collect and spectrally resolve photoluminescence from single CdSe nanocrystallite quantum dots. The elimination of spectral inhomogeneities reveals resolution limited spectral linewidths ( $l120\ensuremath{\mu}\mathrm{eV}$ at 10 K) more than 50 times narrower than expected from ensemble measurements. Light driven spectral diffusion is observed as a form of power broadening. These studies confirm the atomiclike nature of the emitting state in CdSe nanocrystallites.
Miniature fiber optic pressure and temperature sensors

New miniature extrinsic Fabry-Perot interferometric (MEFPI) optical fiber sensors with a size of 125μm in diameter are presented, which are ideal for applications where the operation space is highly restricted. The temperature sensor can work up to 800°C with a sensitivity of 0.46nm/°C. The pressure sensor exhibited a sensitivity of about 0.36nm/psi. The sensitivities of the pressure and temperature sensor can be controlled with high precision during fabrication. In addition, their Fabry-Perot cavity lengths can be controlled with a resolution of several nanometers, which provides excellent flexibility in sensor design and signal demodulation. The sensors are composed entirely of fused silica, which is very reliable, biocompatible, corrosion resistant and immune to electromagnetic interference (EMI).
NEW MEDIA, MEDIATION, AND COMMUNICATION STUDY1

The division of the communication discipline according to whether people communicate face-to-face or via a technological medium has shaped the field's development from the outset. The divide has been institutionalized over time in the structures of academic departments and schools, professional training and degrees, scholarly societies and publishing, and in the field's larger research agendas. However, critics inside and outside the field have long insisted that the differences between the two subfields actually obscure the shifting, contingent nature of communication in everyday experience, social formations, and culture. This paper traces efforts to theorize the intersection of interpersonal and media communication, and in particular the concept of mediation, from Lazarsfeld and Katz's two-step flow in the 1950s, to the challenge of digital media technologies in the 1970s and 1980s, to the rise of new media studies and digital culture scholarship from the 1990s onward.
TU‐C‐224A‐08: A Scientific Comparison of Inverse Treatment Plan Quality Using a Convex Non‐Linear Programming Model as a Function of Beam Quality and Beam Number

Purpose: Recent advances in large scale fluence map optimizations for IMRT allow the use of large beam numbers that conform to the target to generate the desired target coverage while at the same time maintaining dose to critical organs below tolerance limits. Additionally, IMRT has effectively removed the need for high energy accelerator beams due to the excellent plan quality achievable with low beam quality. We investigate the diminishing returns in plan quality with increasing beam numbers and compare IMRTtreatment planning of 6MV and 60Co therapy dose models.Method and Materials: A convex non‐linear model was used to compare the plan quality, from dose volume histograms and fluence maps, for three treatment sites (H & N, CNS and prostate) for a 6MV and 60Co dose model. Plans were calculated for 5, 7, 9, 11, 17, 35 and 71 equidistant beam angles and quality assessed on target coverage (R95% > RRx) and organ sparing for each case. Results: Similar target coverage was achieved for 60Co as with 6MV and equivalent organ sparing was also observed for all three sites. Increasing the number of beams provided some improvement in organ sparing while maintaining target coverage conditions. Dose calculation times increased linearly with beam number and FMO calculations increased by up to 900% between 5 and 71 beams. Conclusion: We have demonstrated that IMRT plan quality using a 60Co dose model produces similar dose distributions to 6MV. We also show that plan quality does not show considerable improvement above 11 beams for IMRT and significant increases in the treatment planning times are observed extending the number of treatment beams to 71 beams. This work supported in part by NSF grant DMI‐0457394 and the State of Florida DOH Grant 04‐NIR03.
Guatemalan tourism and the efficacy of wage employment in Panajachel

Abstract Although tourism's apparent financial benefit to the Guatemalan economy in terms of earning foreign exchange is well known, there has been little micro-economic research done on how the country's third largest export industry affects individual communities. Therefore, this study compares price and wage data to provide initial leads on how tourism affects the food purchasing power of wage earners in the developing tourist community of Panajachel. Research shows that between 1964 and 1978, tourist-industry demands on local food supplies helped inflate food prices far above wage increases, and contributed to a wage laborer's loss of food-purchasing power. Thus in most cases, wage-labor employment in Panajachel is not efficacious in terms of maintaining or increasing the ability to purchase food.
Some Nahua concepts in postconquest guise

(1985). Some Nahua concepts in postconquest guise. History of European Ideas: Vol. 6, No. 4, pp. 465-482.
Utopia and Dissent: Art, Poetry, and Politics in California

This study of California's visual arts and poetry, from 1925 to 1975, demonstrates the influence this regional culture had on American art and thought. Combining intellectual and cultural history, it traces the spread of ideas developed in California's pre-World War II bohemian enclaves to mainstream America, where they became a major current of 1950s and 1960s counter-culturalism. Richard Candida-Smith introduces the major figures in California's visual arts and poetry movements: post-surrealists - Helen Lundeberg and Lorser Feielson; writers - Kenneth Rexroth, Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg and Wallace Berman; and Vietnam War-era poets - Gary Snyder and Denise Leverrov.
Higher accuracy template for corner cube reflected image

Video images of laser beams are analyzed to determine the position of the laser beams for alignment purpose in the National Ignition Facility (NIF). Algorithms process beam images to facilitate automated laser alignment. One such beam image, known as the corner cube reflected pinhole image, exhibits wide beam quality variations that are processed by a matched-filter-based algorithm. The challenge is to design a representative template that captures these variations while at the same time assuring accurate position determination. This paper describes the development of a new analytical template to accurately estimate the center of a beam with good image quality. The templates are constructed to exploit several key recurring features observed in the beam images. When the beam image quality is low, the algorithm chooses a template that contains fewer features. The algorithm was implemented using a Xilinx Virtex II Pro FPGA implementation that provides a speedup of about 6.4 times over a baseline 3GHz Pentium 4 processor.
Flight activity ofHeliothis virescens (F.) females (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) with reference to host-plant volatiles.

Heliothis virescens (F.) females responded positively via upwind flight in laboratory assays to volatiles emitted from methylne chloride washes of fresh whole leaves of host plants including cotton, tobacco, and a weed species,Desmodium tortuosum (Swartz) de Candolle. Except forD. tortuosum, the response increased positively with dose; the steepest slope occurred with an extract of cotton squares (flower buds). Almost all of the moths that landed on the extract dispenser also oviposited. Moths simulated by extracts from cotton squares exhibited a full array of behaviors (upwind flight, contact with the dispenser, examination of the cloth substrate with antennae, and oviposition) expected of gravid individuals seeking sites to propagate the species.
Facilitating compiler optimizations through the dynamic mapping of alternate register structures

Aggressive compiler optimizations such as software pipelining and loop invariant code motion can significantly improve application performance, but these transformations often require the use of several additional registers to hold data values across one or more loop iterations. Compilers that target embedded systems may often have difficulty exploiting these optimizations since many embedded systems typically do not have as many general purpose registers available. Alternate register structures like register queues can be used to facilitate the application of these optimizations due to common reference patterns. In this paper, we propose a microarchitectural technique that permits these alternate register structures to be efficiently mapped into a given processor architecture and automatically exploited by an optimizing compiler. We show that this minimally invasive technique can be used to facilitate the application of software pipelining and loop invariant code motion for a variety of embedded benchmarks. This leads to performance improvements for the embedded processor, as well as new opportunities for further aggressive optimization of embedded systems software due to a significant decrease in the register pressure of tight loops.
2-D Magnetic Recording: Read Channel Modeling and Detection

Two-dimensional magnetic recording (TDMR) is a novel storage architecture that, in theory, can achieve a density of up to 10 Tb/in2. It uniquely differs from other proposed next-generation architectures because of its reliance on sophisticated 2-D signal-processing algorithms. Recently, a number of contributions have been made in the development of read-channel models and detectors for TDMR systems. In this paper, we provide a detailed review on all important read-channel models under consideration. Our discussion focuses on the purpose of each model, placing a special emphasis on the suitability of the Voronoi model for the purpose of designing detectors. We also propose several detection schemes for TDMR based on the Voronoi model and present some numerical results.
Differences in Male and Female Adolescents From Various Racial Groups in the Relationship Between Insulin Resistance-Associated Parameters With Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Intake and Physical Activity Levels

Objective: To describe racial and gender differences in insulin resistance—associated parameters due to sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) intake and physical activity (PA) levels in the adolescent population. Methods: Data from individuals aged 12 to 19 years from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey during the years 1999-2004 were analyzed. SSB intake and PA levels were evaluated in Non-Hispanic whites, Non-Hispanic blacks, and Mexican Americans. Outcome measures included measurements of insulin sensitivity, lipids, blood pressure, waist circumference, and body mass index. Results: Multivariate linear regression analyses showed that anthropometric measurements, metabolic parameters, and indices of insulin resistance differed among the racial groups. Moreover, within each of these racial groups, they differed between the sexes. Conclusions: The differing relationships between insulin resistance—associated parameters and SSB intake and PA levels among racial groups and between the sexes illust...
Biomechanics of initial tibial fixation in posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

Purpose: Clinical success of posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction continues to lag behind that of its anterior counterpart. The tibial site of PCL graft fixation has been a focus of recent research. This study examined the effect of combined distal and proximal tibial fixation on the ability of a transtibial PCL reconstruction to restore intact knee kinematics and in situ forces of the intact PCL. Type of Study: Biomechanical study. Methods: Ten human cadaveric knees were tested. A 134-N posterior tibial load was applied using a robotic/universal force moment sensor testing system at 0°, 30°, 60°, 90°, and 120° of knee flexion. Each knee was tested under 4 conditions: intact, PCL-deficient, single-bundle transtibial reconstruction with distal tibial fixation, and single-bundle transtibial reconstruction with combined distal and proximal tibial fixation. Knee kinematics in 5 degrees of freedom for each condition were recorded and in situ forces of the intact PCL and the PCL grafts were determined. Results: Reconstruction with combined fixation resulted in significantly less posterior tibial translation than reconstruction with distal fixation at 30°, 90°, and 120° ( P P > .05). Reconstruction with combined fixation more closely restored intact PCL in situ forces at 90° ( P Conclusions: Transtibial reconstruction with combined fixation more closely restores intact knee kinematics and in situ forces in the PCL at initial fixation than does reconstruction with distal tibial fixation. The improved kinematics and in situ forces seen with the combined fixation may be attributed to decreased functional graft length and increased stiffness of the PCL graft. Clinical Relevance: Combined tibial fixation may provide a more stable reconstruction at initial fixation.
Effective Hydrogen Separation Using Ion Beam Modified Polymeric Membranes

High purity H2 gas streams are increasingly important for a variety of applications including feed gases for fuel cells. The potential of hydrogen gas as primary energy source has generated considerable interest in hydrogen separation technologies. We have been investigating ion beam irradiation as a method to modify polymeric membranes to enhance both hydrogen permeability and permselectivities. Combined high permeabilities and permselectivities are required to give high recoveries of high purity hydrogen. Ion irradiation typically results in the formation of numerous crosslinks within the polymer matrix that should enable these materials to maintain selectivities at high temperatures and to resist chemical attack. Helium separations over a range of temperatures of irradiated polyimides were used as a model of the hydrogen system. Finally, the impact of irradiation conditions on gas separations in these materials will be addressed.
Remarkable susceptibility of the diamondback moth ( Plutella xylostella ) to ingestion of Pir toxins from Photorhabdus luminescens

Genes encoding Pir toxins were cloned and sequenced from Photorhabdus luminescens (Enterobacteriaceae) strain Hm. Cultures of Escherichia coli expressing the Pir A and B proteins were highly toxic when fed to larvae of Plutella xylostella L. (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae), as had been reported previously. Histological examination of P. xylostella larvae fed with recombinant E. coli revealed gross abnormalities of the midgut epithelium, with profound swelling and shedding of the apical membranes. However, the recombinant E. coli had no effect on the growth or mortality of larval Heliothis virescens F. (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), Manduca sexta L. (Lepidoptera: Sphingidae), Lymantria dispar L. (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae), or Leptinotarsa decemlineata Say (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae). Based on these results, P. xylostella is at least 300-fold more susceptible to Pir toxins than other insect species tested, suggesting that they may not be broadly useful as insecticidal proteins. Because Pir B has sequence similarities with N-terminal portions of Cry proteins from Bacillus thuringiensis , we also tested the recombinant E. coli against a strain of P. xylostella that is resistant to the Cry 1A toxin, but found no difference in mortality between resistant and susceptible strains.
Plasma estradiol-17beta progesterone FSH LH and follicular development in castrated female rats with subcutaneous ovarian autografts.

Castrated adult female rats with subcutaneous ovarian autografts were killed at 3-day intervals for 30 days after grafting. Plasma estradioI-17� (E2), progesterone (P), FSH, and LH values were determined by radioimmunoassay, and follicular development was evaluated histologically. Eighty-two percent of all animals developed cycling vaginal smears by 7.9± 0.5 days after receiving the autografts. Cycle lengths were 4 or 5 days in 76 percent of the animals and 6 days in20 percent. There was no decrease in the number of follicles>150 urn per graft up to 30 days after grafting. However, there were more follicles>150 �rn at proestrus (17.1 ± 1.0) than either metestrus (3.2 ± 1.1) or estrus (3.3 ± 1.1). Corpora lutes (CL) were formed by luteinization of intact follicles. Plasma E2, P, and uterine weight in this model were not different from the intact rat. E2 peaked at 18 days after grafting (88 ± 17 pg/ml), and then gradually decreased until Day 30 (23 ± 7 pg/mI). P reached a plateau at 15 days after grafting (41 ± 7 nglml) and did not change for the remainder of the experiment.On Days 3,6,12 and 15, FSH levels were comparable to castrate values. FSH decreased from Day 15 (1012 ± 178 ng/ml) until Day 27(359 ± 71 ng/ml) but never decreased to diestrous values in the intact rat. The standard errors of the means of LH were large, and LH only decreased significantly below castrate levels on Day 27 (59 ± 14 ng/mI). Analysis of the data accordingto day of estrous cycle at autopsy, showed thatE2, P, and FSH didnotvaryat proestrus, estrus, or metestrus. However, there was asurgeof LH (2393 ± 741 ng/ml) atproestrus. In order to study the effectof the time the graftwas placedrelativeto pubertyon graft function, female rats were castrated and received ovarian autografts before (Group 1) or after (Group 2)puberty. Grafts werepresentforthesame length of time in both groups but the grafts in ratsinGroup 2 were exposedtopostpubertalgonadotropinslongerthan grafts in rats in Group 1 were.There was no difference in E2 between Groups 1 and 2 (35.7 ± 3.6vs.33.1 ± 4.1 pg/mI), but P was decreasedinGroup 2 (28.3 ± 1.6 vs. 15.2 ± 2.0 ng/ml). These data show that ovarian autografts in castrated female rats function like intact, in situ ovaries in many respects. The grafts produce E2 and P which suppress pituitary gonadotropins
Authenticity in Culture, Self, and Society

Contents: Authenticity in culture, self and society, Philip Vannini and J. Patrick Williams. Part 1 The Value, Concept, and Ideal of Authenticity: Authenticity without a true self, Alessandro Ferrara Self-authenticity as master motive, Andrew J. Weigert The importance of insincerity and inauthenticity for self and society: why honesty is not the best policy, Dennis D. Waskul Ideology and practice of authenticity in punk subculture, Philip Lewin and J. Patrick Williams. Part 2 The Personal Experience and Practice of Authenticity: Authenticity: perspectives and experiences, Alexis T. Franzese Authenticity as motivation and aesthetic experience, Philip Vannini and Sarah Burgess The everyday work and auspices of authenticity, Jaber F. Gubrium and James A. Holstein We wear the mask: subordinated masculinity and the persona trap, Michel Schwalbe Pop music as a resource for assembling an authentic self: a phenomenological-existential perspective, Joseph A. Kotarba. Part 3 The Interactional Production, Exchange, and Consumption of Authenticity: Consuming authenticity: a paradoxical dynamic in contemporary capitalism, JA rn Lamla Saying what we mean meaning what we say: authentic dialogue in aboriginal communities, Joshua Guilar and Lynn Charman Performing authentic selfhood in an intentional community, Daphne Holden and Douglas Schrock Embodying ideologies in tourism: a commemorative visitor book in Israel as a site of authenticity, Chaim Noy Emotional performances as dramas of authenticity, E. Doyle McCarthy Alternate authenticities and 9/11: the cultural conditions underlying conspiracy theories, Gary J. Krug Index.
IEEE 802.11 & Bluetooth Interference: Simulation and Coexistence

IEEE 802.11 and Bluetooth, these two operating in the unlicensed 2.4Ghz frequency band are becoming more anymore popular in the mobile computing world. The number of devices equipped with IEEE 802.11 and Bluetooth is growing drastically. Result is the number of co-located devices , say within 10meters, grown to a limit, so that it may cause interference issues in the 2.4Ghz radio frequency spectrum. Bluetooth supports both voice(SCO) and data(ACL) packets. In this paper we investigate these interference issues and use a new Bluetooth voice packet named synchronous connection-oriented with Repeated Transmission (SCORT) to study the improvement in performance. For the sake of simulation results, we provide a comprehensive simulation results using MATLAB Simulink.
Pentalogy of Cantrell Associated With Thoracoabdominal Ectopia Cordis

A 4-day-old female infant with a partially extrathoracic heart in her supraumbilical abdominal wall (Figure 1A) presented with symptoms of tachypnea and mild cyanosis. Physical examination showed a thoracoabdominal wall defect with thoracoabdominal ectopia cordis. The xyphoid was absent and the sternum was short. Oxygen room air saturation was 85%. Chest x-ray showed dextrocardia and descensus of the heart contour to the right epigastrium (Figure 1B). Helical computed tomography (CT) demonstrated a ventral thoracoabdominal wall defect with the 2 ventricles protruding through the defective anterior diaphragm to epigastrium and positioned on the liver (Figure 1C through 1E). Truncus arteriosus and persistent left superior vena cava were observed on helical CT imaging (Figure 1C and 1F). Also present were ventricular septal defect, atrial septal defect, patent ductus arteriosus, and overriding aorta. Magnetic resonance imaging and echocardiography also successfully visualized truncus arteriosus (Figure 1G and 1H; also, see Figure 2 and online-only Data Supplement Movies I through III). Repeated echocardiogram confirmed these intracardiac findings and …
M-channel linear phase perfect reconstruction filter bank with rational coefficients

This paper introduces a general class of M-channel linear phase perfect reconstruction filter banks (FBs) with rational coefficients. A subset of the presented solutions has dyadic coefficients, leading to multiplierless implementations suitable for low-power mobile computing. All of these FBs are constructed from a lattice structure that is VLSI-friendly, employs the minimum number of delay elements, and robustly enforces both linear phase and perfect reconstruction property. The lattice coefficients are parameterized as a series of zero-order lifting steps, providing fast, efficient, in-place computation of the subband coefficients. Despite the tight rational or integer constraint, image coding experiments show that these novel FBs are very competitive with current popular transforms such as the 8/spl times/8 discrete cosine transform and the wavelet transform with 9/7-tap biorthogonal irrational-coefficient filters.
Scaling: Dimensional analysis and physical similarity

Dimensions Measurement of physical quantities, units of measurement. Systems of units We say without any particular thought that the mass of water in a glass is 200 grams, the length of a ruler is 0.30 meters (12 inches), the half-life of radium is 1600 years, the speed of a car is 60 miles per hour. In general, we express all physical quantities in terms of numbers; these numbers are obtained by measuring the physical quantities. Measurement is the direct or indirect comparison of a certain quantity with an appropriate standard, or, to put it another way, with an appropriate unit of measurement . Thus, in the examples discussed above, the mass of water is compared with a standard – a unit of mass, the gram; the length of the ruler is compared with a unit of length, the meter; the half-lifetime of radium is compared with a unit of time, the year; and the velocity of the car is compared with a unit of velocity, the velocity of uniform motion in which a distance of one mile is traversed in a time equal to one hour. The units for measuring physical quantities are divided into two categories: fundamental units and derived units . This means the following. A class of phenomena (for example, mechanics, i.e. the motion and equilibrium of bodies) is singled out for study. Certain quantities are listed, and standard reference values – either natural or artificial – for these quantities are adopted as fundamental units; there is a certain amount of arbitrariness here. For example, when describing mechanical phenomena we may adopt mass, length and time standards as the fundamental units, though it is also possible to adopt other sets, such as force, length and time.
Describing Your Data

This chapter introduces descriptive statistics, center, spread, and distribution shape, which are almost always included with any statistical analysis to characterize a dataset. The particular descriptive statistics used depend on the scale that has been used to assign numbers to represent the characteristics of entities being studied. When the distribution of continuous data is bell shaped, we have convenient properties that make description easier. Chapter 2 looks at dataset types and their description.
Re-evaluating dissociations between implicit and explicit category learning: An event-related fmri study

Recent fMRI studies have found that distinct neural systems may mediate perceptual category learning under implicit and explicit learning conditions. In these previous studies, however, different stimulus-encoding processes may have been associated with implicit versus explicit learning. The present design was aimed at decoupling the influence of these factors on the recruitment of alternate neural systems. Consistent with previous reports, following incidental learning in a dot-pattern classification task, participants showed decreased neural activity in occipital visual cortex (extrastriate region V3, BA 19) in response to novel exemplars of a studied category compared to members of a foil category, but did not show this decreased neural activity following explicit learning. Crucially, however, our results show that this pattern was primarily modulated by aspects of the stimulus-encoding instructions provided at the time of study. In particular, when participants in an implicit learning condition were encouraged to evaluate the overall shape and configuration of the stimuli during study, we failed to find the pattern of brain activity that has been taken to be a signature of implicit learning, suggesting that activity in this area does not uniquely reflect implicit memory for perceptual categories but instead may reflect aspects of processing or perceptual encoding strategies.
Fate of Cajal–Retzius Neurons in the Postnatal Mouse Neocortex

Cajal-Retzius (CR) neurons play a critical role in cortical neuronal migration, but their exact fate after the completion of neocortical lamination remains a mystery. Histological evidence has been unable to unequivocally determine whether these cells die or undergo a phenotypic transformation to become resident interneurons of Layer 1 in the adult neocortex. To determine their ultimate fate, we performed chronic in vivo two-photon imaging of identified CR neurons during postnatal development in mice that express the green fluorescent protein (GFP) under the control of the early B-cell factor 2 (Ebf2) promoter. We find that, after birth, virtually all CR neurons in mouse neocortex express Ebf2. Although postnatal CR neurons undergo dramatic morphological transformations, they do not migrate to deeper layers. Instead, their gradual disappearance from the cortex is due to apoptotic death during the second postnatal week. A small fraction of CR neurons present at birth survive into adulthood. We conclude that, in addition to orchestrating cortical layering, a subset of CR neurons must play other roles beyond the third postnatal week.
Renal sexual segment of the ground skink, Scincella laterale (Reptilia, Squamata, Scincidae).

Mature squamates possess hypertrophied regions of the distal urinary ducts, the renal sexual seg- ment (RSS). The RSS is believed to provide seminal fluid that mixes with sperm and is released into the female cloaca during coitus. This study is the first to describe ultrastructure of the RSS in a lizard collected throughout the active season. The species examined, Scincella late- rale, represents the largest family (Scincidae: 1,200 spe- cies) of lizards. Although sperm are present in the poste- rior ductus deferens of male S. laterale throughout the year, an annual spermatogenic cycle occurs that results in spermiation in spring, coinciding with maximum develop- ment of the RSS. Female S. laterale may possess stored sperm in vaginal crypts from March-May and large ovi- ductal eggs April-June. Thus, the correlation between mating and RSS activity observed in other squamates is also found in S. laterale. Cytologically, the active RSS consists of columnar cells with numerous apical, electron- dense secretory vacuoles which are released by an apo- crine process. The granules stain positively for proteins with bromphenol blue and react with PAS for neutral carbohydrates. After the mating season the RSS under- goes recrudescence and the electron-dense granules are replaced by a mucoid secretion that characterizes more proximal portions of the nephric tubules throughout the year. Little variation in ultrastructure of the RSS occurs between S. laterale and Cnemidophorus lemniscatus (Tei- idae), the only other lizard in which seasonal variation of the RSS has been studied using similar methods. Females exhibit differentiation similar to that of males in the distal urinary tubules, but to a lesser degree. This is only the second such report for female squamates, and the differ- entiation of the region in females is proposed to result from adrenal androgens. J. Morphol. 266:46 -59, 2005. Published 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Experimental Reproduction of Bovine Fetal Neospora Infection and Death with a Bovine Neospora Isolate

Studies were conducted to determine the pathogenic potential of the recently isolated bovine Neospora protozoa (BPA-1) for the bovine fetus. Cows chosen for study had Neospora titers < 160 using an indirect immunofluorescent antibody (IFA) test. Four experimental groups were studied. In group 1, 2 fetuses were inoculated in utero at 118 days gestation with culture-derived Neospora tachyzoites. A pregnant control cow was housed in the same pen, observed daily and screened serologically for evidence of exposure to Neospora. In group 2, 2 cows were infected with Neospora tachyzoites at 138 or 161 days gestation, and 1 control cow was given uninfected cell culture suspension simultaneously at 154 days gestation. Groups 3 (85 days gestation) and 4 (120 days gestation) each consisted of 2 cows infected with Neospora tachyzoites and 1 control cow given uninfected material at the same stage of gestation. Dead fetuses were surgically removed from the infected cows in group 1 on postinfection day (PID) 17. The histopathology was compatible with protozoa1 fetal infection, and protozoa were identified by immunohistochemistry. Viable fetuses were removed surgically from cows in group 2 on PID 28-30. The histopathology was compatible with protozoa1 fetal infection, protozoa were identified by immunoperoxidase techniques, and Neospora tachyzoites were reisolated in vitro from tissues of the 2 infected fetuses. In groups 3 and 4, the control fetus and 1 infected fetus were removed surgically between PID 26 and PID 33. The remaining infected cows were observed until fetal death or abortion occurred. In group 3, the fetus that was surgically removed from 1 infected cow had no pathologic abnormalities, and parasites were not found (PID 26). The second fetus in group 3 died in utero, and expulsion of a mummified fetus was induced on PID 67. Brain histopathology was compatible with protozoa1 infection, and parasites were identified by immunoperoxidase techniques. The fetus that was surgically removed (PID 32) from 1 infected cow in group 4 had lesions compatible with protozoa1 infection, and Neospora tachyzoites were reisolated in vitro from fetal tissues. The second infected cow in group 4 produced a full-term live calf that had a precolostral Neospora titer of 20,480. Clinically, this calf had depressed conscious proprioception in all limbs. Very mild lesions were found in the central nervous system, but protozoa were not found in the tissues. The results demonstrate that the bovine Neospora protozoa can be transplacentally transmitted, resulting in fetal infection and death, and mimics the naturally occurring fetal disease.
Direct Observation of Peer-related Social Interaction: Outcomes for Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Deficits in social relatedness with same-age peers are a defining characteristic of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and are likely to manifest themselves during social interactions with typically developing peers in classroom settings. Researchers have documented that children with Autism Spectrum Disorders engage in low rates of appropriate social behaviors with peers. However, there is a paucity of research focusing on the systematic assessment of prosocial behavior of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders during naturally occurring interactions prior to the implementation of an intervention. A critical first step in this process is to examine the context in which prosocial behaviors occur for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. The purpose of this study was to descriptively examine the initiations, responses, and hypothesized outcomes of prosocial behaviors via direct observation of young children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in natural classroom settings. Results indicated that the pa...
Health Insurance Coverage and Medical Care Utilization Among Working-Age Americans with Visual Impairment

As access and cost of medical care emerge as the fundamental issues in the discussion of reforming the nation's health care system, more attention needs to be devoted to the understanding of how visual impairment and functional disability in general affects an individual's access to health insurance as well as medical care utilization. Based on the 1984 Survey of Income and Program Participation (SIPP), we estimate that only 57.5% of 7.0 million working-age (15-64 years old) visually impaired Americans, compared with 79.0% of those not visually impaired, have private health insurance coverage. Moreover, an estimated 1.5 million visually impaired working-age Americans are not covered by any form of health insurance, public or private. This 20.7% uninsurance rate is significantly higher than the 14.1% reported among those who are not visually impaired (p < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression also supports the inverse association between visual impairment and insurance coverage. On the other hand, multivariate logistic regression suggests a positive association between visual impairment and utilization of outpatient medical services. Although there is a trend toward higher utilization of inpatient services as well among the visually impaired, the finding is not statistically significant. These findings suggest that visual impairment poses a barrier to accessing health insurance, even when controlling for income, education, and employment status. On the other hand, regardless of the health insurance status, visually impaired Americans are likely to have utilized more physician services, but not the hospital services, than the non-visually impaired.
Art in the Service of Science

In fields such as studio art, art conservation, archaeology, anthropology, music, and architecture it is often understood that many of the advances emerge from the introduction of new developments from science and technology. Scientific research is often justified on the basis of its past as well as potential future fallout into other endeavors as diverse as medicine, manufacturing, and the humanities. The diffusion of scientific innovation into the practice of art conservation has been punctuated by the introduction of a series of diverse technologies. Trace element and isotopic analyses, infrared imaging, ultraviolet fluorescence inspection, advanced coatings and adhesives, scanning electron microscopy, and photon/electron microprobes are notable examples. For the past thirty years various laser technologies have demonstrated utility in the practice of art conservation, as well. These include photon cleaning and divestment, holographic display and nondestructive analysis, surface characterization through laser fluorescence, radiation scattering and absorption, as well as laser-induced ultrasound. At the dawn of laser technology’s introduction into the art conservation field (1972–74) the Center for Art/Science Studies (CASS) was established at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) with the hope of accelerating and broadening the diffusion of scientific developments into art conservation practice. Surprisingly, one of the first events in the CASS/UCSD transpired when a Visual Arts Department student employed a primitive laser statue cleaner to “correct” a silk-screen print. In the course of maintaining her laser this art student discovered a dramatically improved method for aligning the complex optical beam train by utilizing her artistic training. A few months later another CASS/UCSD student in the Photographic Arts Program (while modifying a ruby laser to experiment with theater-lighting special effects) discovered an improved laser beam-profile diagnostic technique. These two, seemingly trite, examples of scientific serendipity “in reverse” are not isolated anomalies. History is replete with instances of art coming to the aid of science and technology. Examples include Samuel Morse’s drawing upon his skill as a painter in support of his electrical engineering research, the collaboration of Michele Besso and Albert Einstein in the formulation of Special Relativity, Picasso’s vision of wave-function collapse in Quantum Electrodynamics, and Jay DeFeo’s depiction of Big Bangs and Black Holes while cosmologists were focusing on Fred Hoyle’s steady-state continuum theory of the universe.
Using dynamic processing windows for robot group control

This paper presents a method for determining the feasible processing window for a leader robot that controls a group of follower robots. A processing window is defined as the time interval from the instant the platform starts collecting data to the moment the robot leader finishes planning and communicates with follower robots. The method determines the minimum processing window after considering the different bounds affecting the control of the robot, such as of robot's processing power, robot sensors and the motion of the robots in the group. We present a derivation of the bounds that affect the processing window of the leader robot and an algorithm for determining the feasible window or adjusting the parameters that affect the processing window in case a feasible processing window cannot be achieved because of an overload condition. The application considered in this paper is a group of mobile robots that self deploy, retrieve, and reconfigure barrels to improve the safety of highway construction/maintenance workers.
Control of laminar separation using pulsed vortex generator jets: direct numerical simulations

Direct numerical simulations (DNS) are employed to investigate laminar boundary layer separation and its control by pulsed vortex generator jets (VGJs), i.e. by injecting fluid into the flow through a spanwise array of small holes. Particular focus is directed towards identifying the relevant physical mechanisms associated with VGJ control of low-Reynolds-number separation, as encountered in low-pressure turbine applications. Pulsed VGJs are shown to be much more effective than steady VGJs when the same momentum coefficient is used for the actuation. From our investigations we have found that the increased control effectiveness of pulsed VGJs can be explained by the fact that linear hydrodynamic instability mechanisms are exploited. When pulsing with frequencies to which the separated shear layer is naturally unstable, instability modes are shown to develop into large-scale, spanwise coherent structures. These structures provide the necessary entrainment of high-momentum fluid to successfully reattach the flow.