cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
REM sleep eye movement counts correlate with visual imagery in dreaming : A pilot study

Based on the findings of our previously published positron emission tomography study, we proposed that recorded eye movements during REM sleep are visually targeted saccades. In the present study, we examined the correlation between the number of eye movements in REM sleep (EM) and visual imagery in dreaming (V) and provided further support for our proposal. All the observations (N = 11) were made with one individual to eliminate interindividual variation and were made during the second REM sleep period to control for a time-of-night effect. V, with or without dream report length partialled out, was strongly associated with EM only in the 1-min interval immediately preceding awakening. The time course of the association suggests that the strong EM-V association reflects a phasic, localized activation of the eye-movement-control system in association with REM sleep eye movements.
Laser-induced fluorescence determination of temperatures in low pressure flames

Spatially resolved temperatures in a variety of low pressure flames of hydrogen and hydrocarbons burning with oxygen and nitrous oxide are determined from OH, NH, CH, and CN laser-induced fluorescence rotational excitation spectra. Systematic errors arising from spectral bias, time delay, and temporal sampling gate of the fluorescence detector are considered. In addition, we evaluate the errors arising from the influences of the optical depth and the rotational level dependence of the fluorescence quantum yield for each radical. These systematic errors cannot be determined through goodness-of-fit criteria and they are much larger than the statistical precision of the measurement. The severity of these problems is different for each radical; careful attention to the experimental design details for each species is necessary to obtain accurate LIF temperature measurements.
103 IVGG TREATMENT OF KAWASAKI SYNDROME (KD)

We compared a single large dose of intravenous gamma globulin (IVGG) with the standard regimen of four smaller daily doses in reducing systemic inflammation and coronary artery abnormalities in 548 patients (pts) with acute KD within the first 10 days of fever in 7 U.S. university medical centers. Pts were randomly assigned either to a single-infusion (273 pts) (IVGG, 2 g/kg, over 10 hours), or to four-infusion (275 pts) (400 mg/kg/day for 4 consecutive days); both received aspirin, 100 mg/kg/day, through illness day 14, then 3 to 5 mg/kg/day. The groups were similar at enrollment. In the single-infusion group, mean decrease in temperature from study day 1-2 was greater (p<.0001) and albumin (p=.02) and α-1-antitrypsin (p=.05) improved more rapidly. Echocardiograms interpreted blindly and independently by two readers showed coronary artery abnormalities on one or more studies in 6.4% of pts overall: single-infusion vs four-infusion = 4.6% vs 8.2%, respectively, including those with abnormal echocardiograms at enrollment and 3.4% vs 5.5% excluding those with initial abnormalities. Side effects were equal and mild. Single infusion IVGG is safe and effective, reducing fever, inflammation and coronary artery abnormalities more than the 4 day regimen.
Mapping and monitoring contaminated-sediment geometry and stability.

Abstract Environment Canada's National Water Research Institute (NWRI) conducts research on freshwater contaminated sediments, much of which is focused on designated areas of concern in the Great Lakes and their connecting channels. This paper reviews new acoustic and video equipment and procedures developed to map the geometry and stability of the sediments, and describes their applications. A RoxAnn™ acoustic seabed-classification system is used for mapping bottom-sediment types and locating the deposits of fine-grained sediments with which contaminants are associated. The system uses the acoustic properties of sediments to distinguish textural types ranging from mud to boulders, and displays the data as they are collected. The sediment thickness is measured with a weighted video–acoustic tripod which is lowered into the sediments to refusal, and which recorded penetration with a video camera or an echosounder transducer. The stability of the contaminated sediments was monitored with a bottom-mounted, high-precision echo sounder-digitizer, which logs changes in the position of the sediment–water interface produced by erosion or deposition. The same procedure can be used in capping or dredging projects to track bottom changes as they occur, or they can be measured by pre- and post-project mapping of bathymetry and morphology with sweep-sonar or side-scan sonar equipment. The new equipment and procedures have been successfully applied to a number of areas of concern in the Great Lakes basin. They provide a faster and more detailed characterization of sediment properties and geometry than was previously available, and have been particularly effective in optimizing sampling surveys and monitoring remediation projects.
Single wall carbon nanotube scaffolds for photoelectrochemical solar cells. Capture and transport of photogenerated electrons.

Single wall carbon nanotube (SWCNT) architecture when employed as conducting scaffolds in a TiO2 semiconductor based photoelectrochemical cell can boost the photoconversion efficiency by a factor of 2. Titanium dioxide nanoparticles were dispersed on SWCNT films to improve photoinduced charge separation and transport of carriers to the collecting electrode surface. The shift of ∼100 mV in apparent Fermi level of the SWCNT−TiO2 system as compared to the unsupported TiO2 system indicates the Fermi level equilibration between the two systems. The interplay between the TiO2 and SWCNT of attaining charge equilibration is an important factor for improving photoelectrochemical performance of nanostructured semiconductor based solar cells. The feasibility of employing a SWCNT−TiO2 composite to drive the water photoelectrolysis reaction has also been explored.
Metabolism and DNA binding of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons by human diploid fibroblasts.

The metabolism of three carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons was measured in mid-(population doubling levels of 20–39) and late-(population doubling levels > 55) passage cultures of WI-38 human diploid fibroblasts. Cultures of mid-and late-passage cells metabolized these hydrocarbons to both water- and organic solvent-soluble derivatives. In stationary cultures, the same amounts of benzo(a)pyrene (BP) and 3-methyl-cholanthrene were metabolized per cell, but late-passage cells metabolized only one-third as much 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene per cell as mid-passage cells. The DNA adducts formed from BP in WI-38 cells were examined by chromatography of enzyme-degraded DNA samples on Sephadex LH20 columns. On columns eluted with methanol-water gradients, the [3H]BP-deoxyribonucleoside adducts eluted in the same volume as the product peak isolated from DNA that had been reacted with 7,8-dihydroxy-9,10-epoxy-7,8,9,10-tetrahydroBP. On columns eluted with borate-containing methanol-water gradients, 62% of the cellular products eluted in the same volume as the product peak isolated from DNA that had been reacted with (±) 7α,8β-dihydroxy-9β,10β-epoxy-7,8,9,10-tetrahydroBP (the anti-isomer) and 35% eluted in the same volume as a product peak isolated from DNA that had been reacted with (±) 7α,8β-dihydroxy-9α,10α-epoxy-7,8,9,10-tetrahydroBP (the syn-isomer). Thus, more than one type of DNA adduct is formed in these cells, possibly through the reacticn of different isomers of this BP-diol-epoxide with DNA.
The oxidation-reduction potentials of the iron-sulfur proteins in mitochondria

Abstract The oxidation-reduction potentials of the iron-sulfur proteins responsible for the g = 1.94 EPR signals in mitochondria have been measured. Two components were found which can be measured at 77°K. The high potential component has a midpoint potential of +30 ± 10 mV, while the low potential component has a midpoint potential of −305 ± 10 mV. Both components are one-electron acceptors (n = 1.0).
High force reaching task induces widespread inflammation, increased spinal cord neurochemicals and neuropathic pain

Repetitive strain injuries (RSI), which include several musculoskeletal disorders and nerve compression injuries, are associated with performance of repetitive and forceful tasks. In this study, we examined in young, adult Sprague-Dawley rats, the effects of performing a voluntary, moderate repetition, high force (MRHF; nine reaches/min; 60% maximum pulling force) task for 12 weeks on motor behavior and nerve function, inflammatory responses in forearm musculoskeletal and nerve tissues and serum, and neurochemical immunoexpression in cervical spinal cord dorsal horns. We observed no change in reach rate, but reduced voluntary participation and grip strength in week 12, and increased cutaneous sensitivity in weeks 6 and 12, the latter indicative of mechanical allodynia. Nerve conduction velocity (NCV) decreased 15% in the median nerve in week 12, indicative of low-grade nerve compression. ED-1 cells increased in distal radius and ulna in week 12, and in the median nerve and forearm muscles and tendons in weeks 6 and 12. Cytokines IL-1alpha, IL-1beta, TNF-alpha, and IL-10 increased in distal forearm bones in week 12, while IL-6 increased in tendon in week 12. However, serum analysis revealed only increased TNF-alpha in week 6 and macrophage inflammatory protein 3a (MIP3a) in weeks 6 and 12. Lastly, Substance P and neurokinin-1 were both increased in weeks 6 and 12 in the dorsal horns of cervical spinal cord segments. These results show that a high force, but moderate repetition task, induced declines in motor and nerve function as well as peripheral and systemic inflammatory responses (albeit the latter was mild). The peripheral inflammatory responses were associated with signs of central sensitization (mechanical allodynia and increased neurochemicals in spinal cord dorsal horns).
Trends in pre-pregnancy obesity in nine states, 1993-2003.

KIM, SHIN Y., PATRICIA M. DIETZ, LUCINDA ENGLAND, BRIAN MORROW, AND WILLIAM M. CALLAGHAN. Trends in pre-pregnancy obesity in nine states, 1993–2003. Obesity. 2007;15:986–993. Objective: Pre-pregnancy obesity poses risks to both pregnant women and their infants. This study used a large population-based data source to examine trends, from 1993 through 2003, in the prevalence of pre-pregnancy obesity among women who delivered live infants. Research Methods and Procedures: Data from the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System in nine states were analyzed for trends in pre-pregnancy obesity (BMI 29.0 kg/m 2 ) overall and by maternal demographic and behavioral characteristics. Pre-pregnancy BMI was calculated from self-reported weight and height on questionnaires administered after delivery, and demographic characteristics were taken from linked birth certificates. The sample of 66,221 births was weighted to adjust for survey design, non-coverage, and non-response, and it is representative of all women delivering a live birth in each particular state. The sampled births represented 18.5% of all births in the United States. Results: Pre-pregnancy obesity increased 69.3% during the study period, from 13.0% in 1993 to 1994 to 22.0% in 2002 to 2003. The percentage increase ranged from 45% to 105% for individual states. Subgroups of women with the highest prevalence of obesity in 2002 to 2003 were those who were 20 to 29 years of age, black, had three or more children, had a high school education, enrolled in Women, Infants, and Children, or were non-smokers. However, all subgroups of women examined experienced at least a 43% increase in pre-pregnancy obesity over this time period. Discussion: The prevalence of pre-pregnancy obesity is increasing among women in these nine states, and this trend has important implications for all stages of reproductive health care.
Springback reduction in U-Channels—“double-bend” technique

The walls of a U-channel may be slanted, either because of the consequence of a previous forming operation or simply because of springback. The resulting wall inclination can be reduced if the U-channel is unbent and bent again at a new site—the “double-bend” technique. Based on this simple, geometric concept, five practical methods—three restrike and two forming operations—have been advanced and experimentally shown capable of significantly reducing the wall inclination or springback in steel U-channels. In some specific cases, process variables which affect springback in the double-bend technique are just the opposite of those used in practice.
L'Exposition Anticoloniale: Political or Aesthetic Protest?

In response to the 1931 Paris Exposition Coloniale, Andre Thirion and Louis Aragon organised the Exposition Anti-imperialiste in an attempt to bring about collaboration between Communists and Surre...
Mechanisms of radiation-induced degradation of reactor vessel materials

Abstract Fast neutrons are usually considered the source of various radiation effects caused by atom displacements, such as embrittlement, swelling, and creep. However, other reactions may contribute to atom displacements under certain conditions. These additional sources of displacements include those caused by thermal neutron capture recoils, γ-induced energetic electrons, and energetic particles emerging from transmutation reactions. In reactor vessels, for example, special circumstances may be encountered where these reactions become significant or even dominant with respect to fast-neutron-induced displacements. Key considerations describing these relative contributions are described. Inequalities are derived giving requirements among materials parameters and irradiation conditions to make each process significant with respect to fast neutrons. An example of the application of these conditions is given, covering the explanation of ‘early’ embrittlement in the HFIR reactor vessel.
Cops, Gangs, and Revolutionaries in 1960s Chicago What Black Police Can Tell Us about Power

In late 1960s Chicago, radical black police officers opposed to police brutality created the Afro-American Patrolmen’s League (AAPL). This paper describes the political vision of the AAPL and that ...
X-linked Inhibitor of Apoptosis (XIAP) Inhibits c-Jun N-terminal Kinase 1 (JNK1) Activation by Transforming Growth Factor β1 (TGF-β1) through Ubiquitin-mediated Proteosomal Degradation of the TGF-β1-activated Kinase 1 (TAK1)

Active NF-kappaB renders malignant hepatocytes refractory to the growth inhibitory and pro-apoptotic properties of transforming growth factorbeta1 (TGF-beta1). NF-kappaB counteracts TGF-beta1-induced apoptosis through up-regulation of downstream target genes, such as XIAP and Bcl-X(L), which in turn inhibit the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis. In addition, induction of NF-kappaB by TGF-beta1 inhibits JNK signaling, thereby attenuating TGF-beta1-induced cell death of normal hepatocytes. However, the mechanism involved in the negative cross-talk between the NF-kappaB and JNK pathways during TGF-beta1 signaling has not been determined. In this study, we have identified the XIAP gene as one of the critical mediators of NF-kappaB-mediated suppression of JNK signaling. We show that NF-kappaB plays a role in the up-regulation of XIAP gene expression in response to TGF-beta1 treatment and forms a TGF-beta1-inducible complex with TAK1. Furthermore, we show that the RING domain of XIAP mediates TAK1 polyubiquitination, which then targets this molecule for proteosomal degradation. Down-regulation of TAK1 protein expression inhibits TGF-beta1-mediated activation of JNK and apoptosis. Conversely, silencing of XIAP promotes persistent JNK activation and potentiates TGF-beta1-induced apoptosis. Collectively, our findings identify a novel mechanism for the regulation of JNK activity by NF-kappaB during TGF-beta1 signaling and raise the possibility that pharmacologic inhibition of the NF-kappaB/XIAP signaling pathway might selectively abolish the pro-oncogenic activity of TGF-beta1 in advanced hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) without affecting the pro-apoptotic effects of TGF-beta1 involved in normal liver homeostasis.
Trucking stress at breeding does not lower conception rate of beef heifers.

Abstract The goal of this study was to determine whether 1 h of trucking stress before or after artificial insemination (AI) altered the conception rate of beef heifers. Estrus was synchronized in heifers with prostaglandin F 2α .The 3 treatment groups consisted of 1) AI (control heifers, n = 93); 2) Truck + AI (trucked for 1 h immediately before AI, n = 81); and 3) AI + Truck (trucked for 1 h immediately after AI, n = 82). All heifers were artificially inseminated by a single technician with semen from a single ejaculate. Blood samples were collected for cortisol measurement 1 h before AI, immediately before and after AI, and 1 h after AI in the AI (n = 6), Truck + AI (n = 9), and AI + Truck (n = 8) groups Pregnancy in heifers was confirmed either at slaughter or by palpation per rectum. Trucking before AI elevated (P 0.05). Areas under the cortisol curves in Truck + AI heifers are greater (P 0.05) This study demonstrates that 1 h of trucking stress either before or after AI did not lower the conception rate of heifers
Reducing cardiovascular complications of type 2 diabetes by targeting multiple risk factors

Abstract:Insulin resistance syndrome is characterized by hyperglycemia, atherogenic dyslipidemia, hypertension, and abdominal obesity. Hyperglycemia is the major risk factor for microvascular complications in type 2 diabetes. However, 70% to 80% of patients with type 2 diabetes will die of macrovasc
Optimum constrained disorbit by multiple impulses.

The solution of the problem of optimally disorbiting a satellite initially in an elliptical orbit about a planet using many impulses has not been discussed in the open literature. This paper presents the analytical solution of the problem in closed form. It is assumed that the reentry trajectory is such that it intersects the atmosphere at a given angle ψ4. This constraint is imposed by the safe recovery of the satellite. The problem is formulated as an optimal control problem. In the configuration space, optimum subarcs are segments of straight lines. The switching curve is obtained by integration of a Riccati equation. Criteria for the selection of the optimum trajectory are derived. Variations of the minimum characteristic velocity are discussed.
Chromatographic separation of diastereoisomeric esters-II Mandelates and lactates of 2-methylbutanol-1, 3-methylbutanol-2, pentanol-2 and hexanol-2.

Abstract The racemic alcohols, 2-methylbutanol-l, 3-methylbutanol-2, pentanol-2 and hexanol-2 have been esterified with optically active mandelic or lactic acid, and the resultant mixtures of diastereoisomeric esters separated chromatographically with an optically inactive sulphonated polystyrene resin as the stationary phase and water or dilute aqueous sodium sulphate as the mobile phase. Lactate esters were more easily separated than mandelate esters. The Chromatographic separation of 26 mmole of (±)-3-methyl-2-butyl(+)-lactate and subsequent hydrolysis of the fractions containing only the ester of the (+)-alcohol yielded 1-2 mmole of pure 3-methyl-2-butanol.
Comparison of OPO and Mark-III FEL for tissue ablation at 6.45 μm

We have investigated the experimental consequences of two picosecond infrared lasers, both tuned to 6.45micrometers and focused on ocular tissue. The exposure conditions were comparable, other than pulse repetition rate, where an optical parametric oscillator/amplifier laser (OPA) system operates at a kilohertz and the Mark-III FEL at 3 gigahertz. In both cases, the peak intensity was near 2x1014 W/m2 and the total delivered energy was approximately 125 mJ. The Mark-III consistently ablates tissue, while the OPA fails to ablate or to damage corneal tissue. In particular, there is no experimental evidence for protein denaturation due to OPA irradiation. WE account for these observations in terms of a theoretical model based on thermal diffusion and threshold conditions for superheating and chemical kinetics. We comment on the relevance of tissue geometry.
Lack of relationship between infection with avian leukosis virus and the presence of COFAL antigen in chick embryos

Abstract COFAL antisera, from hamsters with tumors induced by the Schmidt-Ruppin strain of Rous sarcoma virus (RSV), reacted in complement fixation (C'F) tests with antigens extracted from organs of chick embryos and young chickens. Between 50 and 90% of embryos from different flocks had the antigen in liver, brain, intestine, kidney, lung, and yolk sac. Embryos that were congenitally infected with avian leukosis virus (ALV), and embryos that were infected with ALV in the laboratory, as well as embryos that were free of infectious virus when examined by RIF and COFAL tests, all contained approximately the same amount and distribution of the antigen. Antisera from different individual hamsters gave the same end point in C'F titrations when tested with antigen from livers of ALV-free chick embryos and antigen from chick fibroblast tissue cultures infected with Schmidt-Ruppin RSV. Sera from normal hamsters did not react with either antigen. One group of 20 embryos from a single flock all were found to contain ALV-like particles in liver and/or pancreas, but no infectious virus was isolated in tissue culture from these embryos. The particles were not related to the presence of COFAL antigen in embryos, since some embryos with viruslike particles contained no antigen, while embryos from other flocks with no morphologic evidence of virus infection contained large amounts of antigen. The data suggested that the so-called group specific avian leukosis antigen was similar or identical to a normal chicken antigen.
A game-based approach to information literacy and engineering in context

Engineering students need complex skills to be effective in college and post-graduate employment. Beyond technical skills, the ability to integrate varied types of information is essential for competence in applying engineered solutions to real-life situations. While research shows that project-based learning favorably affects engineering student success and retention as well as recruitment of diverse populations to STEM, it is challenging to find ways to incorporate projects during the first two years, where in the U.S. general education requirements typically precede major course work. As a work in progress, we report on the first phase of an experiment at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) using a sophomore-level humanities course to teach information literacy. Students develop a pedagogical role-play game to explore a historical situation simulating engineered solutions. The game offers the advantages of project-based learning within a traditionally framed classroom environment, and before students address complex engineering problems within their major areas of study. To assess the effectiveness of our educational approach we reviewed the quality and type of sources located by students and completed a textual analysis of students' reflective essays. Through game development, students effectively located information, and saw value in the research skills they gained.
a⟨100⟩ dislocations in magnesium oxide

Abstract Dislocations of a⟨100⟩ Burgers vector lying in {100} planes have been observed in magnesium oxide using transmission electron microscopy. The evidence for climb of these dislocations is presented.
Aspirin and aspirin-like drugs induce HLA-DR expression in HT29 colon cancer cells

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) decrease the incidence of colon cancer. The underexpression of HLA antigens during colon cancer development is suspected to be a mechanism by which malignant cells escape immune surveillance. We examined whether NSAIDs affect the expression of HLA-DR in HT29 human colon adenocarcinoma cells, which do not express HLA-DR. Aspirin, indomethacin and sulindac induced several-fold the expression of HLA-DR in these cells in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. Aspirin increased HLA-DR alpha steady-state mRNA levels and HLA-DR alpha gene transcription rate. These findings raise the possibility that such a mechanism may be operative in vivo.
Acceptance of the Distinguished Public Service Medal for 2005

Mr. President, members of the society, and guests: I apologize for not being here: I’m sure it hurts me more than it hurts you. I am on the Executive Board of ICSU, the International Council for Science and had to attend the Board meeting and ICSU General Assembly at this time. In a response like this, one has the choice of talking about oneself or pontificating. I choose the latter. I am getting this award, for which I am most grateful, for service to national and international science societies and, perhaps, for public lectures and press interviews. All of these things should be done at a relatively late age, because I believe that younger people should be doing research. I began public service work too early, but I believed that, during the Apollo Program where much public money was being …
Individuals: an essay in revisionary metaphysics

We naturally think of the material world as being populated by a large number of individuals. These are things, such as my laptop and the particles that compose it, that we describe as being propertied and related in various ways when we describe the material world around us. In this paper I argue that, fundamentally speaking at least, there are no such things as material individuals. I then propose and defend an individual-less view of the material world I call “generalism”.
The use of survey research to estimate trends in non-compliance with federal income taxes

Abstract Hard measures of non-compliance with federal personal income tax laws can not be generated on a timely basis (within less than three or four years). This paper suggests that the use of survey research to measure trends in attitudes towards government and tax non-compliance could enable policy makers to plan for emerging problems rather than reacting to dated issues.f
Ceramide kinase mediates cytokine- and calcium ionophore-induced arachidonic acid release.

Despite the importance of prostaglandins, little is known about the regulation of prostanoid synthesis proximal to the activation of cytosolic phospholipase A2, the initial rate-limiting step. In this study, ceramide-1-phosphate (C-1-P) was shown to be a specific and potent inducer of arachidonic acid (AA) and prostanoid synthesis in cells. This study also demonstrates that two well established activators of AA release and prostanoid synthesis, the cytokine, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and the calcium ionophore, A23187, induce an increase in C-1-P levels within the relevant time-frame of AA release. Furthermore, the enzyme responsible for the production of C-1-P in mammalian cells, ceramide kinase, was activated in response to IL-1β and A23187. RNA interference targeted to ceramide kinase specifically down-regulated ceramide kinase mRNA and activity with a concomitant decrease of AA release in response to IL-1β and A23187. Down-regulation of ceramide kinase had no effect on AA release induced by exogenous C-1-P. Collectively, these results indicate that ceramide kinase, via the formation of C-1-P, is an upstream modulator of phospholipase A2 activation. This study identifies previously unknown roles for ceramide kinase and its product, C-1-P, in AA release and production of eicosanoids and provides clues for potential new targets to block inflammatory responses.
Patient Selection and Treatment Planning for Implant Restorations

Dental implants are an indispensible tool for the restoration of missing teeth. Their use has elevated the practice of dentistry by improving both our technical ability to rehabilitate patients and general quality of life. To routinely achieve the associated high expectations, diligent attention to details must be observed and addressed from the outset. Of central concern is the attainment of osseointegration and the location of implants to ideally support the intended restoration. The pivotal point in treatment planning for dental implants occurs when the location of bone is viewed radiographically in the context of the planned prosthesis. This most often requires diagnostic waxing or tooth arrangement using mounted diagnostic casts.
Job Access and Reverse Commuting Initiatives in California: Review and Assessment

A wide array of initiatives supporting job access and reverse commuting has been introduced in California over the past 5 years. Experiences were reviewed in five areas: schedule extensions, new fixed bus routes, shuttle services, user-side assistance, and automobile loan programs. Schedule extensions have provided much-valued mobility for the poor, but at high costs. New bus routes have been most productive when operating over long distances and delivering inner-city patrons to concentrated job hubs. Door-to-door shuttle services have mainly supplemented fixed bus routes and in some instances have been used to train former welfare recipients how to drive. Santa Cruz County has been a leader in crafting client-based programs that provide a menu of mobility options from which unique programs are custom designed to meet the job access needs of individuals. Automobile loan initiatives have been controversial; statistical evidence from San Bernardino County and case experiences from San Mateo County indicate that automobiles have aided Welfare-to-Work transitions.
Optimization of Reforming Parameter and Configuration for Hydrogen Production

In the present investigation optimization is classified into configuration optimization on one hand and optimization of the design and operating parameters for each configuration on the other hand. The process investigated is that of hydrogen production by steam reforming of higher hydrocarbons. Heptane is used as a model component for higher hydrocarbons. The proposed novel reforming process is basically a circulating fluidized-bed membrane reformer (CFBMR) with continuous catalyst regeneration and gas–solid separation. Composite hydrogen-selective membranes are used to remove the product hydrogen from the reacting gas mixture, thus driving the reversible reactions beyond their thermodynamic equilibria. Dense perovskite oxygen-selective membranes are also used to introduce oxygen for the exothermic oxidation of hydrocarbons and carbon. Four configurations are investigated, two of which relate to the catalyst regeneration before the gas–solid separation and the other two related to the catalyst regeneration after the gas–solid separation. The optimization of the performance of each configuration is carried out for a number of design and operating parameters as optimization parameters and under both non-autothermal and autothermal conditions. Results show that the autothermal operation with direct contact between cold feeds (water and heptane) and hot circulating catalyst can be the best configuration for efficient hydrogen production with minimum energy consumption. The maximum net hydrogen yield is 16.732 mol of hydrogen per mol of heptane fed, which is 76.05% of the maximum theoretical hydrogen yield of 22 when the final reforming products are carbon dioxide and hydrogen. Previous investigations never exceeded 70.82% of this theoretical value. © 2005 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2005
Basal ganglia T1 hyperintensity in LGI1-autoantibody faciobrachial dystonic seizures.

Objective: To characterize the clinical features and MRI abnormalities of leucine-rich glioma-inactivated 1 (LGI1)-autoantibody (Ab) faciobrachial dystonic seizures (FBDS). Methods: Forty-eight patients with LGI1-Ab encephalopathy were retrospectively identified by searching our clinical and serologic database from January 1, 2002, to June 1, 2015. Of these, 26 met inclusion criteria for this case series: LGI1-Ab seropositivity and FBDS. In a separate analysis of all 48 patients initially identified, the MRIs of patients with (n = 26) and without (n = 22) FBDS were compared by 2 neuroradiologists blinded to the clinical details. Results: The median age of the 26 included patients was 62.5 years (range 37–78); 65% were men. FBDS involved arm (26), face (22), and leg (12). Ten were previously diagnosed as psychogenic. Ictal EEGs were normal in 20 of 23 assessed. Basal ganglia T1 and T2 signal abnormalities were detected in 11 patients (42%), with excellent agreement between neuroradiologists (κ scores of 0.86 and 0.93, respectively), and included T1 hyperintensity alone (2), T2 hyperintensity alone (1), or both (8). The T1 hyperintensities persisted longer than the T2 hyperintensities (median 11 weeks vs 1 week, p = 0.02). Improvement with immunotherapy (18/18) was more frequent than with antiepileptic medications (10/24). A separate analysis of all 48 patients initially identified with LGI1-Ab encephalopathy showed that basal ganglia MRI abnormalities were present in 11 of 26 with FBDS but not present in those without FBDS (0/22) ( p p Conclusions: Basal ganglia T1 hyperintensity is a clinically useful MRI biomarker of LGI1-Ab FBDS and suggests a basal ganglia localization.
Faculty Use and Perceptions of Electronic Mail: A Case Study.

Abstract Electronic mail is changing the way businesses and universities process information, but little research exists on the impact of university e-mail systems. This study investigated e-mail use in a business school at a public university before and after the installation of a local area network. After the installation, the average number of accesses, the time spent accessing, and the average number of messages increased. Positive perceptions about e-mail pertain to speed, reliability, and paper reduction. Negative perceptions indicate a lack of user friendliness and clear instructions. Departments teaching computer-related courses use e-mail slightly more often than do other departments.
Characterization of circulating tumor cell aggregates identified in patients with epithelial tumors

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) have been implicated as a population of cells that may seed metastasis and venous thromboembolism (VTE), two major causes of mortality in cancer patients. Thus far, existing CTC detection technologies have been unable to reproducibly detect CTC aggregates in order to address what contribution CTC aggregates may make to metastasis or VTE. We report here an enrichment-free immunofluorescence detection method that can reproducibly detect and enumerate homotypic CTC aggregates in patient samples. We identified CTC aggregates in 43% of 86 patient samples. The fraction of CTC aggregation was investigated in blood draws from 24 breast, 14 non-small cell lung, 18 pancreatic, 15 prostate stage IV cancer patients and 15 normal blood donors. Both single CTCs and CTC aggregates were measured to determine whether differences exist in the physical characteristics of these two populations. Cells contained in CTC aggregates had less area and length, on average, than single CTCs. Nuclear to cytoplasmic ratios between single CTCs and CTC aggregates were similar. This detection method may assist future studies in determining which population of cells is more physically likely to contribute to metastasis and VTE.
Rootless eruption of a mandibular permanent canine

The purpose of this article was to describe the rootless eruption of a mandibular permanent canine in a 10-year-old boy; his mandible had been fractured in a car accident. The fracture was at the region of the developing canine, resulting in arrested root formation and causing abnormal, rootless eruption. Current theories on tooth eruption and the important role of the dental follicle in the process of eruption are discussed.
Comfort of Subjects Clothed in Cotton, Water Repellent Cotton, and Orlon1 Suits

The effect of wearing clothing made from cotton, water repellent cotton, and Orlon fabrics of similar constructions on the comfort of women subjects seated in an environ ment of 94° F and 80% RH was determined. In no case did the subjects state that they were hotter in one suit than in another nor were there differences in the total weight losses, evaporative weight losses, rectal temperatures, or times of onset of sweating of the subjects when clothed in the three suits. However, the water repellent cotton suit did have a lower weight gain during the tests than did the untreated suit and, conse quently, left more liquid moisture on the skin of the subjects. If the subject perspired freely, this liquid moisture on the skin was rated as a source of discomfort.
An absolute method of vertical seismometer calibration by reference to a falling mass with application to the measurement of the gain

Abstract We measure the gain of a vertical seismometer by simultaneously recording the output of the seismometer and repeatedly measuring the displacement between the seismometer and a free-falling mass in a vacuum. The falling object provides an inertial reference frame. By comparing the ground motion measured by the seismometer with the independent record of displacement between the seismometer and inertial space, we obtain the gain. It is an absolute measurement of the gain relative to the local Lorentz reference frame. Bootstrap error estimates show that a high precision in the estimate of the gain can be obtained with a small number of individual drops. The method derived can be extended to multi-parameter searches of the vertical response function. The technique is also shown to reduce noise in absolute gravity measurements due to ground noise. Finally, we discuss the potential for replacing vibration isolation schemes in absolute gravity systems with digital noise reduction.
Pregnancy anxiety and prenatal cortisol trajectories

Pregnancy anxiety is a potent predictor of adverse birth and infant outcomes. The goal of the current study was to examine one potential mechanism whereby these effects may occur by testing associations between pregnancy anxiety and maternal salivary cortisol on 4 occasions during pregnancy in a sample of 448 women. Higher mean levels of pregnancy anxiety over the course of pregnancy predicted steeper increases in cortisol trajectories compared to lower pregnancy anxiety. Significant differences between cortisol trajectories emerged between 30 and 31 weeks of gestation. Results remained significant when adjusted for state anxiety and perceived stress. Neither changes in pregnancy anxiety over gestation, nor pregnancy anxiety specific to only a particular time in pregnancy predicted cortisol. These findings provide support for one way in which pregnancy anxiety may influence maternal physiology and contribute to a growing literature on the complex biological pathways linking pregnancy anxiety to birth and infant outcomes.
Generating user stories in groups

Communicating about system requirements with user stories is a distinctive feature of Agile Software Development methods. While user stories make system requirements intelligible to both customers and technical developers, they also create new challenges for the requirements elicitation process such as personal bias and requirements coverage. In this study we propose that when elicited from groups instead of individuals, the number of stories generated, the uniqueness and the comprehensiveness of the stories is likely to increase. A lab experiment design is delineated and partially completed. Future research will need to be conducted to determine conclusions.
Religious Autonomy in Europe and the United States—Four Recent Cases

On 11 January 2012, the Supreme Court of the United States issued its judgment in Hosanna-Tabor Evangelical Lutheran Church and School v Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) (132 S Ct 694), the most important religious freedom case to come before the Court since the 1990 Employment Division, Department of Human Resources v Smith (494 US 872). In Smith, the Court held that ‘neutral laws of general applicability’ trump claims to free exercise of religion. The neutral law in question in Hosanna-Tabor was the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the claim of applicability was brought by the EEOC in behalf of a fourth-grade teacher, Cheryl Perich, who had been diagnosed with narcolepsy. Perich, a ‘called’ employee of a church and school that comprise a member congregation of the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod, was dismissed for insubordination after she threatened to sue the school when it resisted her premature return from medical leave. Her threat, said the church, violated the Synod’s belief that Christians should resolve their disputes internally. In the ensuing litigation, the church claimed the suit was barred by the ‘ministerial exception’, a non-statutory, constitutionally compelled exception to the application of employment-discrimination and civil rights statutes to religious institutions and their ‘ministerial’ employees. The teacher claimed that the church’s invoking the exception was a pretext for firing her for non-religious reasons, and in any event she was not actually a minister. The district court granted summary judgment for Hosanna-Tabor, which had treated Perich like a minister and had long held her out to the world as such. The Sixth Circuit remanded, recognizing the ministerial exception but accepting Perich’s arguments that she did not qualify as a minister because of the small percentage of time she spent dealing with religion in her fourth-grade classroom. Given that the doctrine had been ‘adopted and developed’ by all 12 federal circuits over a period of 40 years, the existence of the doctrine was not thought to be in doubt when the Supreme Court agreed for the first time to consider it.
Perceptions of Youth Obesity among Physical Educators

The purposes of this study were to examine (a) antifat attitudes among physical education teachers, (b) performance and ability expectations for normal and overweight youth, and (c) perceptions of the problem of youth obesity and the role of schools and physical education. Participants, 105 physical educators, completed a demographic and background questionnaire, the Antifat Attitudes Scale (AFAS; Morrison & O’Connor), an expectations questionnaire, and Perceptions of Youth Obesity and Physical Education Questionnaire (Price, Desmond, & Ruppert). Participants endorsed moderate antifat attitudes and strong personal weight control beliefs. Participants reported higher expectations for youth they considered normal weight, versus overweight, across a variety of performance and ability areas. Participants overwhelmingly agreed that youth obesity is a concern and that schools are not doing enough to help overweight youth.
The Florida red tide dinoflagellate Karenia brevis: New insights into cellular and molecular processes underlying bloom dynamics

The dinoflagellate Karenia brevis is responsible for nearly annual red tides in the Gulf of Mexico that cause extensive marine mortalities and human illness due to the production of brevetoxins. Although the mechanisms regulating its bloom dynamics and toxicity have received considerable attention, investigation into these processes at the cellular and molecular level has only begun in earnest during the past decade. This review provides an overview of the recent advances in our understanding of the cellular and molecular biology on K. brevis. Several molecular resources developed for K. brevis, including cDNA and genomic DNA libraries, DNA microarrays, metagenomic libraries, and probes for population genetics, have revolutionized our ability to investigate fundamental questions about K. brevis biology. Two cellular processes have received particular attention, the vegetative cell cycle and vertical migration behavior, which are of key importance due to their roles in the development of both surface populations that constitute blooms and subsurface cell aggregations that may serve to initiate them. High throughput sequencing of cDNA libraries has provided the first glimpse of the gene repertoire in K. brevis, with approximately 12,000 unique genes identified to date. Phylogenomic analysis of these genes has revealed a high rate of horizontal gene transfer in K. brevis, which has resulted in a chimeric chloroplast through the selective retention of genes of red, green, and haptophyte origin, whose adaptive significance is not yet clear. Gene expression studies using DNA microarrays have demonstrated a prevalence of post-transcriptional gene regulation in K. brevis and led to the discovery of an unusual spliced leader trans-splicing mechanism. Among the trans-spliced gene transcripts are type I polyketide synthases (PKSs), implicated in brevetoxin biosynthesis, which are unique among type I PKSs in that each transcript encodes an individual catalytic domain, suggesting a novel gene structure in this dinoflagellate. Clone libraries of 16S ribosomal DNA sequences developed from bloom waters have unveiled the temporal and spatial complexity of the microbial soup that coexists with K. brevis and its active involvement in both bloom growth and termination processes. Finally, the development and application of population genetic markers has revealed a surprisingly high genetic diversity in K. brevis blooms, long assumed to consist of essentially clonal populations. With these foundations in place, our understanding of K. brevis bloom dynamics is likely to grow exponentially in the next few years.
The Prefrontal Cortex Makes the Brain a Preadaptive System

In the course of evolution, the prefrontal cortex develops to maximum relative mass in the human brain. That large increase in mass is attributable to the disproportionate development of connective fibers (white matter), rather than cells (gray matter). This points to connectivity as the key to the evolutionary advantage of the human prefrontal cortex. In the light of modern research, it becomes apparent that this cortex, in the human, represents the ultimate embodiment of the capability of the organism to adapt to changes in its environment; that capability rests largely on cortical connectivity. The cognitive code is a relational code, inscribed by connectivity within and between large-scale cortical networks (cognits). In this paper, it is proposed that the prefrontal cortex endows the rest of the cortex with the ability to adapt the organism to its environment in anticipation of predicted changes. This makes the brain a preadaptive organ. Therein is the reason why the executive functions of the prefrontal cortex-mainly top-down attention, working memory, preparatory set, planning, and decision making-all have a critical future dimension. Through its connections with limbic structures and other cortical regions, the prefrontal cortex imparts to the brain its power to preadapt to events in the emotional and cognitive domains.
Quality of Life After Stroke

Background and Purpose The purposes of this study were to examine overall and domain-specific quality of life in long-term stroke survivors and to identify variables that predict quality of life after stroke. Methods The study used a cross-sectional, descriptive correlational design. Subjects were 86 stroke survivors who were interviewed 1 to 3 years after stroke. Quality of life was measured with the use of an instrument that assesses satisfaction and importance for four domains (health and functioning, socioeconomic, family, and psychological-spiritual). Independent variables were age, social class, aphasia, functional status, motor impairment, depression, comorbidity, and perceived social support. Multiple regression analysis was used to predict quality of life. Results Thirty percent of subjects scored in the depressed range. The mean overall quality of life score was relatively high and was comparable to that of a normative population. Quality of life was highest for the family domain and lowest for ...