cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Use and utility of preoperative hemostatic screening and patient history in adult neurosurgical patients

Object The utility of preoperative hemostasis screening to predict complications is uncertain. The authors quantified the screening rate in US neurosurgery patients and evaluated the ability of abnormal test results as compared with history-based risk factors to predict hemostasis-related and general outcomes. Methods Eleven thousand eight hundred four adult neurosurgery patients were identified in the 2006–2009 American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. Multivariate logistic regression modeled the ability of hemostatic tests and patient history to predict outcomes, that is, intra- and postoperative red blood cell [RBC] transfusion, return to the operating room [OR], and 30-day mortality. Sensitivity analyses were conducted using patient subgroups by procedure. Results Most patients underwent all 3 hemostatic tests (platelet count, prothrombin time/international normalized ratio [INR], activated partial thromboplastin time), but few had any of the outcomes of inte...
Emotional intelligence and leadership

Purpose – In 1990, Salovey and Mayer presented a framework for emotional intelligence (EI). This marked the beginning of 20 years of academic research, development, and debate on the subject of EI. A significant amount of previous research has attempted to draw out the relationship between EI and leadership performance. EI has been a uniquely controversial area of the social sciences. EI is based on three simple yet fundamental premises. This manuscript reviews the definitions and models in the field of EI with special emphasis on the Mayer ability model and the connection between EI and leadership. The paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach – This paper takes the form of a literature review. Findings – EI appears to have a foothold in both our popular vernacular and our academic lexicon. However, it is not entirely clear what future form it will take. Originality/value – This manuscript explores the current relationship between EI and leadership, discusses the various instruments...
Modulation of embryonic chick motoneuron glutamate sensitivity by interneurons and agonists

Embryonic chick motoneurons grown in culture together with other spinal cord cells are more sensitive to L-glutamate than are sorted motoneurons grown in isolation. After 6 d in vitro, the difference in peak sensitivity reached 6-fold. Comparable increases in aspartate and kainate currents were observed, indicating that both G1 and G2 amino acid receptors were affected. Elimination of proliferating non-neuronal cells from mixed spinal cord cell cultures by addition of cytosine arabinoside (ara C) did not prevent the increase in motoneuron chemosensitivity, so the induction is probably due to the presence of interneurons. In contrast to their effect on glutamate response, interneurons did not affect the sensitivity of motoneurons to the inhibitory neurotransmitters GABA and glycine. Glutamate receptors expressed by sorted and unsorted motoneurons are identical in terms of their ED50, reversal potential, mean channel open time, and conductance, implying that the increased sensitivity of motoneurons in mixed cultures is due to an increase in the number of open channels. In addition to an increase in the number of channels, the distribution of glutamate sensitivity over the surface of individual motoneurons was altered in interneuron-containing cultures. The sensitivity of isolated motoneurons was greatest at the soma and decreased with distance along major processes, but the sites of highest sensitivity on motoneurons in mixed cultures occurred along their processes. Sharp peaks identified by focal iontophoresis of glutamate were separated by areas of lower sensitivity. The inductive effect of interneurons cannot be due to glutamate, the most likely excitatory interneuron-motoneuron transmitter in 6 d chick cultures.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Mercaptans from Thioketals: Cyclododecyl Mercaptan

Mercaptans from thioketals: cyclododecyl mercaptan reactant: 46.5 g (0.26 mol) of cyclododecanone intermediate: 25.8 g (0.10 mol) of 1,4-dithiaspiro[4.11]hexadecane product: cyclododecyl mercaptan reactant: 4-tert-Butylcyclohexanone reactant: 2-Adamantanone reactant: 4-Heptanone reactant: Acetophenone reactant: Cyclohexanone reactant: Estrone reactant: Pregnenolone reactant: Undecan-5-one Keywords: acetal (and thioacetal) formation; addition, to CO; desulfurization; oxidation, miscellaneous; reduction, miscellaneous; alkane thiols; butyllithium (concd)
Effect of age on ease of B-cell tolerance induction.

Abstract It was shown in intact mice, and in lethally irradiated, thymectomized recipients of peripheral B cells from donors of various ages, that the ease of B-cell tolerance induction with the dinitrophenyl derivative of the copolymer of d -glutamic acid and d -lysine decreases with age. That is, the B-cell population of 6- to 7-month-old BALB/c mice is more resistant to tolerance induction than is the B-cell population of 1 1 2 - to 2-month-old mice and the B-cell population of 10- to 11-month-old mice is highly resistant to tolerance induction. This age-related resistance of the peripheral B-cell population to tolerance induction might, at least in part, account for the increased incidence of autoantibodies in aged animals. However, the increased resistance to tolerance induction appears to occur at an earlier age than the increased incidence of autoantibodies. This suggests that changes in ease of tolerance induction may not be the sole factor responsible for the increase in autoantibodies in aged animals. Evidence is also presented for an age-related decrease in the function of the B-cell population with respect to the response to a T-dependent antigen.
Individual Differences in Cognitive Editing Standards

This study is aimed at understanding how people edit their own arguments prior to uttering them (Hample, 1984; Hample & Dallinger, 1985a, 1985b). The main categories of editorial criteria are effectiveness, principled objection to type of argument, person-centered issues, and discourse competence standards. Our main purpose here is to begin an account of what sort of person prefers which criteria. Argumentativeness (Infante & Rancer, 1982), verbal aggression (Infante & Wigley, 1986), interpersonal orientation (Swap & Rubin, 1983), and respondent gender are associated with use of editorial criteria. Results point to two different approaches to editing one's own arguments. The task orientation focuses on effectiveness, and is taken by males, and by people high in verbal aggressiveness and low in interpersonal orientation. The relational orientation is taken by females, and by people low in verbal aggressiveness and high in argument avoidance and interpersonal orientation. Justification for using multiple arguments to instantiate each type of argument, and for using multiple situations was also found.
Influence of Lactobacillus bulgaricus on Microbiology and Chemistry of Swiss Cheese

Abstract Rindless block Swiss cheese was manufactured with different amounts of Lactobacillus bulgaricus. The resulting cheeses were analyzed microbiologically before brining and when removed from the "warm room." Analysis of selected flavor compounds was at 60 days. Small amounts of L. bulgaricus starter increased the numbers of streptococci and lactobacilli while large amounts decreased the number of streptococci. Increasing the amount of L. bulgaricus starter decreased the number of propionibacteria. As amounts of L. bulgaricus added were increased, free proline increased. Diacetyl and proteolysis increased with the amount of L. bulgaricus until large amounts of inoculum were reached whereupon they decreased. Increases in L. bulgaricus had little influence upon the concentration of free volatile fatty acids.
Thermolability characteristics and inheritance of human red cell nucleoside triphosphate pyrophosphohydrolase.

Biochemical and genetic data which serve to define further the variation of nucleoside triphosphate pyrophosphohydrolase (NTPH) activity in red cells are presented [see also Verhoef, V. L., Fuller, S. A., and Morris, A. J. (1980). Biochem. Genet. 18:235; Soder, C., Henderson, J. F., Zombor, G., McCoy, E. E., Verhoef, V., and Morris, A. J. (1976). Can. J. Biochem. 54:843]. Examination of the in vivo stability of red cell NTPH via separation of cells by density (age) reveals that loss of NTPH activity during the lifetime of the erythrocytes is the same in individuals with high and low NTPH specific activity. However, when the thermolability of lysate NTPH was measured, three phenotypes could be distinguished. In order of decreasing thermolability, these correspond to NTPH specific activities of 0–5, 12–25, and greater than 25. These data provide the first evidence of physical differences in the molecules of NTPH associated with the various specific activities of NTPH present in the human population. Family data are also presented which show that the mode of inheritance of differences in NTPH specific activity cannot be ascribed to a simple autosomal one gene-two allele system. We propose alternatively that the family data conform well to an hypothesis of three alleles at one NTPH locus controlling NTPH activity.
Retrograde axonal transport and the demonstration of non-specific projections to the cerebral cortex and striatum from thalamic intralaminar nuclei in the rat, cat and monkey.

The intralaminar nuclei of the thalamus have been examined particularly in the rat but with additional observations in the cat and squirrel monkey, with a view to determining the extent of their connections with the cerebral cortex and/or striatum. Cells in the intralaminar and other thalamic nuclei were labeled by retrograde axonal transport of the enzyme, horseradish peroxidase, from injection sites of varying size in the cerebral cortex and striatum. This system provides a useful means of determining certain parameters of the horseradish peroxidase technique. It is concluded that the degree of retrograde labeling of a cell is primarily dependent upon the number and concentration of its axon terminals in the vicinity of the injection site. Injections of the striatum in the rat and monkey cause intense labeling of many cells in the intralaminar nuclei. Conversely, injections in the medial, frontal and parietal cortex of all three species, though leading to heavy labeling of many cells in the appropriate thalamic relay nuclei, result in only light labeling of relatively few cells in the intralaminar nuclei. Cells in a single intralaminar nucleus, however, though showing a broad topographical relationship, can be labeled from quite wide areas of the cerebral cortex. These results are consistent with the view that the intralaminar nuclei (including the parafascicular and centre median) project densely to the striatum and sparsely and diffusely upon the cerebral cortex.
Synthetic organisms and self-designing systems

Abstract This paper examines the need for complex, adaptive solutions to certain types of complex problems typified by the Strategic Defense System and NASA's Space Station and Mars Rover. Since natural systems have evolved with capabilities of intelligent behavior in complex, dynamic situations, it is proposed that biological principles be identified and abstracted for application to certain problems now facing industry, defense, and space exploration. Two classes of artificial neural networks are presented — a nonadaptive network used as a genetically determined “retina,” and a frequency-coded network used as an adaptive “brain.” The role of a specific environment coupled with a system of artificial neural networks having simulated sensors and effectors is seen as an ecosystem. Evolution of synthetic organisms within this ecosystem provides a powerful optimization methodology for creating intelligent systems able to function successfully in any desired environment. A complex software system involving a simulation of an environment and a program designed to cope with that environment are presented. Reliance on adaptive systems, as found in nature, is only part of the proposed answer, though an essential one. The second part of the proposed method makes use of an additional biological metaphor—that of natural selection—to solve the dynamic optimization problems every intelligent system eventually faces. A third area of concern in developing an adaptive, intelligent system is that of real-time computing. It is recognized that many of the problems now being explored in this area have their parallels in biological organisms, and many of the performance issues facing artificial neural networks may find resolution in the methodology of real-time computing.
Elver: Recommending Facebook pages in cold start situation without content features

Recommender systems are vital to the success of online retailers and content providers. One particular challenge in recommender systems is the “cold start” problem. The word “cold” refers to the items that are not yet rated by any user or the users who have not yet rated any items. We propose Elver to recommend and optimize page-interest targeting on Facebook. Existing techniques for cold recommendation mostly rely on content features in the event of lacking user ratings. Since it is very hard to construct universally meaningful features for the millions of Facebook pages, Elver makes minimal assumption of content features. Elver employs iterative matrix completion technology and nonnegative factorization procedure to work with meagre content inklings. Experiments on Facebook data shows the effectiveness of Elver at different levels of sparsity.
Acrobat to academic: A sketch of the life and carrer of Frederick E. Samson, Jr.

Fred Samson's carrer began in osteopathy and show business. After service as a medic during World War II, he earned, a doctoral degree in physiology at the University of Chicago and joined the faculty of the University of Kansas in Lawrence in 1952. There he conducted pioneering research on cerebral energy metabolism and axoplasmic transport while inspiring a generation of students in the classroom and lab. During the mid 1960s, he began a fruitful and lasting collaboration with the Neurosciences Research Program and its founder, Francis O. Schmitt. In 1973 he became director of the Ralph Smith Mental Retardation Research Center in Kansas City, where he added metabolic mapping of the brain in relation to seizure activity and drug toxicity to his research accomplishments. He retired in 1989, still pursuing new problems and continuing to inspire colleagues with his enthusiasm for neurochemistry and the joy of science.
High-voltage electron microscopy of human diploid fibroblasts during ageing in vitro: Morphometric analysis of mitochondria☆

Since recent studies have suggested a diminished mitochondrial functional capacity in late-passage ('old') compared to early-passage ('young') normal fibroblasts and fibroblasts from the Hutchinson-Gilford (progeria) syndrome of premature ageing, we analysed whole-cell preparations on the high voltage electron microscope to look for mitochondrial and related defects. All strains examined showed considerable heterogeneity in cell size and intracellular morphology. Mitochondria were readily seen in all cells, predominantly as long slender rods with frequent branching, but occasional circular and saccular forms were also evident. Various parameters of mitochondrial mass including mean number, weight, and total length of mitochondria per cell weight tended to increase in old and progeria cells, but only the former attained statistical significance due to the heterogeneity and consequent variance. A significant finding was the decreased width of mitochondria in old and progeria cells. Cystic blebs were evident in mitochondria of some cells with an apparent increase in old and progeria fibroblasts. These blebs appeared to be due to weakening of the inner membrane, allowing dilatation of the outer membrane which otherwise appeared intact. The number of osmiophilic inclusions per cell weight, particularly lipofuscin granules and autophagic vacuoles, was significantly increased in old and progeria cells. In conclusion, despite some morphological changes, mitochondria of old and progeria cells maintain a structurally and bioenergetically adequate mass compatible with continued cellular viability.
The distribution of glutamate and total free amino acids in thirteen specific regions of the cat central nervous system

Abstract The distribution of glutamate and total free amino acids in 13 specific regions of the cat CNS was presented. A definite gradient of free glutamate content was apparent in the grey tissues. The highest levels were found in different cortical areas and in the caudate nucleus. No such gradient was noted for total free amino acids in the same grey areas. However, central structures contained larger amounts of free amino acids than peripheral structures. The glutamate and total free amino acid content of the central grey tissues was always higher than that of the central white areas. Speculation of the stepwise increase in free glutamate in the grey tissues of the CNS was presented.
GENERALIZED MOLECULAR ORBITAL THEORY II

The generalized molecular orbital (GMO) concept is extended to a higher order method, which begins with a pair-excited multiconfiguration self-consistent field (PEMCSCF) for the orbital optimization and is followed by a multireference configuration interaction calculation. Here, this method is referred to as GMO2. The method has the advantage of being variational, of handling large numbers of active electrons, and of only needing the user to specify the number of active electrons and orbitals without specifying a dominant MO or VB configuration. In this paper, we briefly review the PEMCSCF theory, describe in more detail a new and more efficient optimization procedure, and propose determining the energy with configuration interaction (CI) at the single, double, triple, and quadruple-excitation levels (SDTQ) as a replacement for the full CI, which is needed in a complete active space (CAS) method. Several examples of the application of the method are investigated: methane, tetrahydrogen, benzene, dinitrog...
Problem-solving education to prevent depression among low-income mothers of preterm infants: a randomized controlled pilot trial

We sought to assess the feasibility and document key study processes of a problem-solving intervention to prevent depression among low-income mothers of preterm infants. A randomized controlled pilot trial (n = 50) of problem-solving education (PSE) was conducted. We assessed intervention provider training and fidelity; recruitment and retention of subjects; intervention acceptability; and investigators' ability to conduct monthly outcome assessments, from which we could obtain empirical estimates of depression symptoms, stress, and functioning over 6 months. Four of four bachelor-level providers were able to deliver PSE appropriately with standardized subjects within 4 weeks of training. Of 12 randomly audited PSE sessions with actual subjects, all met treatment fidelity criteria. Nineteen of 25 PSE subjects (76%) received full four-session courses; no subjects reported negative experiences with PSE. Eighty-eight percent of scheduled follow-up assessments were completed. Forty-four percent of control group mothers experienced an episode of moderately severe depression symptoms over the follow-up period, compared to 24% of PSE mothers. Control mothers experienced an average 1.19 symptomatic episodes over the 6 months of follow-up, compared to 0.52 among PSE mothers. PSE appears feasible and may be a promising strategy to prevent depression among mothers of preterm infants.
Seasonal variations in rainfall: Prevalence of Haemagogus and incidence of jungle yellow fever in Brazil and Colombia

Abstract The seasonal distribution of rainfall, Haemagogus mosquitoes and jungle yellow fever in the heavily forested areas of Brazil is similar to that in Colombia but different from that encountered in the remainder of Brazil. In the sparsely forested zone of Brazil climatic conditions from July to October are unfavourable for the disease and for its sylvan vectors.
A statistical smoothness measure to eliminate outliers in motion trajectory tracking

Abstract The automatic tracking of motion data recorded via digital cameras has facilitated human movement study. Outliers in the recorded camera data, however, are still serious problems for reconstructing movement trajectory. Outliers arise from tracking errors, such as missing markers, switched positions of different markers in tracked data, and a block of data points in the trajectory jumping back and forth between two values caused by discrepancies between the two lenses of the same camera. General filtering algorithms can reduce, but not eliminate the ill effect of outliers on the movement trajectory. We have developed a simple algorithm to process the tracked motion data to eliminate several common outliers automatically. The algorithm is based on the statistical smoothness characteristics of the camera data and under the assumption that a human movement trajectory should not contain any sudden shifts. Using a statistical smoothness measure and searching pairs of opposite peaks in marker velocities, a three step approach in the algorithm can remove outliers of various origins automatically. When combined with interpolation and filtering algorithms, the gaps in the trajectory due to outlier removal can be filled with reasonable values, and a smooth and accurate movement trajectory will be achieved. PsycINFO classification: 1330; 3297; 4010; 4100
THE EFFECTS OF SPLENECTOMY UPON THE CELL CONTENT OF THE THORACIC DUCT LYMPH IN THE DOG, AND ITS RELATION TO THE ACTION OF PILOCARPIN.

1. Splenectomy in dogs results in an immediate increase of cells in the thoracic duct lymph, due to the manipulation involved in the operation. This increase is soon followed by a low cell count, attributable to the removal of an important source of the cells under consideration. Several months after the operation, a normal cell count is reestablished, due probably to a readjustment of activity on the part of other cell-forming tissues. 2. Pilocarpin injections after splenectomy result in an increase of cells, attributable to an increased activity of the respiratory organs and of the intestine. 3. After the injection of pilocarpin, splenectomy may increase the cell count, but it causes a decrease sooner than in cases of pilocarpin injection not followed by splenectomy.
Cell Division during Regeneration in Hydra

PROCESSES considered to be involved in regeneration in Hydra include tissue displacement, cell migration, cell proliferation and cell differentiation1. The relative importance of these processes is not clearly understood. Several people have reported that cell proliferation plays only a minor part2, but no quantitative study of cell division in regenerating hydras has been published. We have compared the mitotic index during regeneration of a new hypostome and tentacles (Fig. 1) with the mitotic index in intact hydras, and report here that cell division is not important in regeneration.
LPD lipopolyplex initiates a potent cytokine response and inhibits tumor growth.

Our laboratory has recently developed a lipopolyplex consisting of DOTAP:cholesterol liposomes, protamine sulfate, and plasmid DNA (LPD) that provides improved systemic gene delivery compared with lipoplex following tail vein injection in mice. Because endothelial cells are the primary cells transfected in the lung, it was hypothesized that LPD might be an effective vector for gene therapy of pulmonary metastases. This hypothesis was examined by testing the efficacy of cytokine (IL-12) and tumor suppressor (p53) strategies for treatment of an experimental model of pulmonary metastasis in C57Bl/6 mice. Surprisingly, all LPD complexes including those containing an ‘empty’ plasmid provided a potent (>50% inhibition) and dose-dependent antitumor effect, compared with dextrose-treated controls. In addition, i.v. injections of LPD containing ‘empty’ plasmid also inhibited tumor growth in a subcutaneous model of C3 fibrosarcomma. The antitumor effect correlated well with a strong and rapid proinflammatory cytokine (TNF-α, IL-12 and IFN-γ) response. Naked plasmid DNA did not elicit a cytokine response and the response required assembly of DNA into a lipoplex or the LPD lipopolyplex. Except for the heart, elevated levels of cytokine were observed in all organs (lung, liver, kidney and spleen) where LPD is known to have gene transfer activity. Methylation of immune-stimulatory CpG motifs in the plasmid component of LPD inhibited the proinflammatory cytokine response as well as the antitumor effect of LPD in both tumor systems. This suggests that i.v. administration of LPD elicits a systemic proinflammatory cytokine response that mediates the antitumor activity of the lipopolyplex. In addition, the antitumor activity was not observed in SCID mice suggesting a possible role for B or T lymphocytes in the antitumor response initiated by LPD. This represents the first demonstration that an intravenously administered cationic liposome-based nonviral vector can promote a systemic, Th1-like innate immune response. The immune adjuvant properties of LPD might prove to be suitable for delivering tumor-specific antigens in the context of DNA vaccination.
Characterizing the Infrared Bands of Aqueous Soluble Silicates

A systematic study of the transition in silicate solutions from a solution containing a highly complex mixture of silicate species to one dominated by a single symmetric cubic octamer has been completed. Infrared and NMR results have been analyzed and compared with each other and literature values. The FT-IR band locations are dependent on many factors, particularly the dominant band near 1000 cm−1. The analysis supports Dent Glasser’s hypothesis that silica polymerization results from changes in distribution between the larger colloidal silica and intermediate sized anionic fraction rather than the continuous stepwise growth seen with organic polymerization. A constant value of silica monomer seen in all solutions independent of the complexity of the species or their distribution suggests equilibrium between the monomeric form and larger anions and polymers that is independent of their structure. No evidence is uncovered for specific silicate species dependent IR band assignments.
Particle size distribution of colloidal suspensions by light scattering based upon single particle counts—polystyrene latex

Abstract The particle size distribution of a polystyrene latex has been determined using a new light-scattering photometer which measures the scattered radiance as a function of scattering angle of single aerosolized particles as they are levitated in a laser beam. The results are in agreement with those obtained by conventional light scattering and by electron microscopy. In addition to the main population, two classes of smaller particles were observed. This single particle light-scattering technique offers the possibility of analyzing broader size distributions than heretofore amenable to light scattering and has the added advantage of not requiring any a priori assumptions about the form of the particle size distribution.
Application of Natural Resource Condition Assessments to Two Small National Parks

ABSTRACT: Using a scorecard approach, we assessed the condition of natural resources within the major habitats in Mount Rushmore National Memorial (MORU), South Dakota, and Niobrara National Scenic River (NIOB), Nebraska, as part of a “pilot” effort to determine a National Park Service (NPS) system-wide approach to Natural Resource Condition Assessments (NRCA). Both parks are considered small — MORU because of size (517 ha) and NIOB because the NPS does not own land within the boundary of the park. Small parks often contain resources that are not well-known because they lack research, monitoring, and staff expertise. However, we found adequate information to assess the condition, and sometimes trend, of 12 of 15 biodiversity and process indicators at MORU and 17 of 22 at NIOB, although most of the data we used to establish reference conditions came from sources outside of the parks. We believe forested habitats at MORU and NIOB are in poor condition and deteriorating primarily due to the suppression of fi...
A possible role of erythrocytes in storing and distributing arachidonic acid in rat.

Abstract Young rats weighing 120g and having a packed red cell volume of 37.4% were maintained on a fat free diet. In eight weeks their body weights and packed red cell volume increased to 425g and 45.4%, respectively. However, the proportion of arachidonic acid (20:4) in the total fatty acids was unaltered in erythrocytes but was lowered in other tissues. In adipose tissue, which contained only trace levels of 20:4, about one third of the fatty acid was linoleic acid (18:2). Feeding fat free diet caused a depletion of most of 18:2 in the adipose tissue. Thus, during growth, when 18:2 is excluded from the diet, erythropoiesis is not inhibited. Furthermore, 20:4 produced from stored 18:2 may be used for the production of erythrocytes which retain the tetraenoic acid effectively.
Perfusing the Cold Brain: Optimal Neuroprotection for Aortic Surgery

Background Selective cerebral perfusion (SCP) may enhance the neuroprotective benefits of hypothermia during aortic surgery. However, despite its widespread adoption, there is no consensus regarding optimal implementation of SCP. We used a survival porcine model to explore the physiologic characteristics and behavioral benefits of various protocols involving hypothermic circulatory arrest (HCA) and SCP. Methods Thirty pigs (26.3 ± 1.4 kg), cooled to 15°C on cardiopulmonary bypass, using alpha-stat pH management (mean hematocrit 30%), were randomly allocated to differing brain protection strategies: 90 minutes of HCA (group A); 30 minutes of HCA, then 60 minutes of SCP (group B); or 90 minutes of SCP (group C). Using fluorescent microspheres and sagittal sinus sampling, cerebral blood flow (CBF [mL · 100g −1 · min −1 ]) and cerebral metabolic rate for oxygen (CMRO 2 [mL · 100g −1 · min −1 ]) were assessed at baseline, after cooling, during SCP (where applicable), and for 2 hours after cardiopulmonary bypass. Neurobehavioral scores were assessed blindly from standardized videotaped sessions for 7 days postoperatively. Results Cerebral blood flow was significantly higher ( p = 0.0001) during SCP (60 and 90 minutes) if preceded by HCA. The CMRO 2 was also significantly higher in group B versus group C ( p = 0.016) at 60 minutes. The CMRO 2 in all three groups rebounded promptly toward baseline after weaning from cardiopulmonary bypass. Postoperative neurobehavioral scores were significantly worse in group A. Conclusions Continuous SCP provides the best brain protection overall. However, an initial period of HCA does not seem to impair late outcome; perhaps the elevated CBF and CMRO 2 observed reflect a beneficial cerebral response to a recoverable insult. Clearly, 90 minutes of HCA induces permanent brain injury, even in this carefully controlled setting.
Human C5a and C5a analogs as probes of the neutrophil C5a receptor

Abstract Quantitative assessment of the human neutrophil chemotactic response and immunologic evidence demonstrate that human C5a and/or its physiological equivalent, C5a des Arg' serves as the predominant chemotactic factor in complement activated serum. Both C5a and its des Arg74 derivative are capable of promoting directed cellular migration as well as lysosomal enzyme release. When neutrophil chemotaxis is assessed by an ‘under agarose methodology’, in the absence of extraneous human serum proteins. C5a is found to be some 10- to 30-fold more active than C5a des Arg Quantitatively similar results are obtained when each factor is assessed for its ability to promote secretion of azurophilic granular enzymes from cytochalasin B-treated neutrophils. The C5a structural analog C5a-(1–69), lacking five residues of the C-terminal portion of the parent molecule, and a synthetic pentapeptide l -methionyl- l -glutaminyl- l -leucylglycyl- l -arginine, which mimics the C-terminal linear sequence of C5a (Chenoweth et al. , 1979a), are found to be devoid of biological activity when examined either-alone or in combination. These findings imply that the C-terminal portions of C5a contribute importantly to modulating ligand-receptor interactions on neutrophils. Based on these observations, a conceptual model of the interaction of human C5a with the neutrophil C5a receptor is proposed. We hypothesize that C5a possesses an internal ‘recognition’ site in addition to the ‘activation’ site contained in the C-terminal region of the molecule.
The ear lobe crease sign and coronary artery disease in aortic stenosis

Ear lobe creases have been proposed as useful indirect markers of coronary artery disease. To test such a hypothesis, this physical sign was evaluated in 100 patients with symptomatic aortic stenosis undergoing cardiac catheterization to establish the hemodynamic severity of the obstruction and the degree of coronary artery involvement. This is a disorder where the coexistence of cardiac ischemia may play an important part in diagnosis and management. Criteria were established for the degree of ear lobe involvement with a grading of mild (Grade 1), moderate (Grade 2), and severe (Grade 3). Significant coronary artery disease was defined as narrowing greater than or equal to 50% and a coronary score was established. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values were calculated, using Bayesian analysis for three levels of assumed coronary artery disease prevalence. An ear lobe crease score was correlated with a coronary artery disease score, taking into account the variables of age, sex, and body mass index. No useful statistical correlations were found and it is concluded that this physical sign is of little practical value in this clinical setting.
Information processing in the optic lobes of the lubber grasshopper

Abstract Single unit responses in the optic lobes of the grasshopper, Romalea microptera , have been examined using a variety of simple, patterned visual stimuli. Five classes of unit response have been defined: multimodal, vector contrasting edge, light units (L-units) (tonic and ON types), net dimming units, and unmodulatable and weakly sensitive units. Multimodal and vector edge fibres have the properties of true, spatiotemporal operators, i.e. they are able to discriminate certain spatiotemporal characteristics of objects. Romalea multimodal units responded to small, contrasting objects given novel motion in a total, binocular receptive field (RF). Vector units responded selectively to long, contrasting boundaries moved in the preferred direction (anteriodorsally). They had total monocular RF's and responded over a wide range of edge speeds with an approximately cosine directional characteristic. The general morphology of the optic lobes of Romalea has been described. Recording sites were marked by radio-frequency lesioning, and trends in the location of unit types have been established with reference to the anatomical features of the lobe. The ON-gated mechano-response (i.e. following light ON) of some tonic L-units, and the general mechano- and acoustic responses of multimodal operators, underline the importance of addressing further study to uncovering the role of efferent non-visual sensory information in the operation of the arthropod visual system.
Effect of cyclic modeling parameters on the behavior of shape memory alloys for seismic applications

The cyclic behavior of shape memory alloys (SMAs) in their austenitic form is studied to determine the most appropriate method of modeling in terms of both accuracy and ease of implementation. Four different models for SMA behavior are evaluated: (a) a simple nonlinear elastic model, (b) a trigger-line model, (c) a one-dimensional thermomechanical model, and (d) a one-dimensional thermomechanical model which accounts for the behavior of SMAs under cyclic loading. Using a two degree-of-freedom bridge model with SMA restrainers and a single degree-of-freedom building model with SMA cross-braces, the effect of using the different models on the seismic response of the bridge and building is evaluated. Using a suite of nine earthquake ground motions, the displacement response histories with the four different models are compared. The results illustrate that although the models show quite different behaviors for the SMAs, the resulting responses of the bridge and building are insensitive to the type of model used. For most of the ground motion records used, the difference in the maximum displacement for the four models was less than 15%. This study lends support to the use of more simplified models when evaluating the effectiveness of the SMAs for seismic response modification.
High speed nematic liquid crystal modulators

Abstract Nematic liquid crystal modulators with fast response time, high contrast ratio and low operation voltage are demonstrated. The transient nematic effect, together with reflective mode operation, is responsible for the observed fast response times. The use of a tunable liquid crystal phase compensator results in excellent contrast at a reasonably low operation voltage.
Turbulence model effects on separated flow about a prolate spheroid

The three-dimensional separated flow about a prolate spheroid at high incidence is numerically investigated using the F3D thin-layer Navier-Stokes code. The effect of different turbulence models on the flowfield solution and the characteristics of the predicted flow are analyzed. The models used in this study are the Baldvvin-Lomax algebraic model, the Baldvvin-Lomax model as modified for crossflow separation by Degani and Schiff, and a modified version of the Johnson-King model with and without the Degani-Schiff crossflow modifications applied. The Johnson-King model is applied to assess the importance of modeling nonequilibrium effects in predicting flow about a slender body at high incidence. The computations are made for steady-state, fully turbulent flow. The results are compared with experimental pressure data and with computational results obtained by Panaras and Steger, using the identical code and grid, but with their own modifications to the Baldwin-Lomax model. In addition, the computed solutions are analyzed using surface flow patterns, helicity density contours, and turbulent eddy-viscosity profiles. The results of this analysis provide insight into the effects of the turbulence models on flow characteristics and demonstrate the effect of the models on the accurate prediction of highly separated and vortical flows about a slender body.
Evaluation of the relationship between one’s differentiation of cognitive processes and metacognitive self-ratings

It is questionable whether people can provide accurate and credible metacognitive self-evaluations. This study examined the relationship between metacognitive self-assessment and the representation of cognitive processes. Fifty-four college students submitted written descriptions of different cognitive processes. Latent semantic analysis evaluated the descriptions with regard to each individual’s differentiation among different processes at three stages: conditions, mental operations, and outcomes. Findings indicated that individuals with good self-ratings differentiated different processes consistently at all three stages, whereas those with poor metacognitive self-ratings made clear distinctions between different processes in terms of conditions or outcomes of the processes, but much less so in terms of how the processes develop. The complex relationship between metacognitive self-perception and one’s conceptual knowledge in this domain is discussed.
Synthesis of New Stable Functionalized Organic Radicals for the Study of their Magnetic Properties

Several phenoxy radicals were chemically modified in order to probe the intermolecular spin interactions between these radicals. Based on the ketenimine chemistry, we demonstrated an efficient synthetic sequence for the preparation of new dicyano substituted hindered phenols. A series of new polar group substituted nitroxide-nitroxyl radicals were also synthesized. These radicals with polar functionalities include 3, 5-dinitro-phenyl, 3, 5-dimethoxyphenyl, 3, 5-dihydroxyphenyl, 4-hydroxyphenyl, 4-cyanophenyl, 3, 5-dicyano-phenyl, and 3, 5-di-i-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl derivatives of 4, 4, 5, 5-tetramethylimidazolidine-3-oxide-1-oxyl. They are intended for the study of functional substitution effects on the nature of spin exchanges in solid state.
Magnetic properties and morphologies of rapidly-solidified iron-oxides with Silica

Abstract Rapid solidification of iron oxides with silica was investigated as a method of making fine dispersions of magnetic phases within a non-magnetic matrix. Such a process applied to amorphous thin films may ultimately lead to solid-state dispersions of particles that possess magnetic properties suitable for magnetic recording purposes. Ceramic powders of four different compositions were pressed into rods, sintered and then rapidly solidified using the double roller quench method. The compositions of these powders were 1) pure Fe 3 O 4 ; 2) 82 wt% Fe 3 O 4 + 18 wt% SiO 2 ; 3) 77 wt% Fe 3 O 4 + 18 wt% SiO 2 + 5 wt% CoO and 4) 46 wt% Fe 3 O 4 + 26 wt% SiO 2 + 28% CoO. SEM and XRD studies were done on as-quenched flakes produced from each of the starting compositions. The flakes produced from pure Fe 3 O 4 are composed of crystals of Fe 2 O 3 ·Fe 3 O 4 , with a mean particle size of 5 μm. For this sample, σ 2 was 85 emu/g and H c was 30 Oe. An AES study was done on a flake produced from composition 2). The flakes produced from starting compositions of 2) and 3) consisted of equiaxed precipitates of Fe 2 O 3 ·Fe 3 O 4 (Berthollide oxide) growing within a glassy matrix in an oriented manner. The average size of these precipitates is 1500 A on edge. Flakes produced from sample 2) possess a σ s of 54 emu/g and H c of 245 Oe: flakes produced from sample 3) have σ s of 50 emu/g and H c of 550 Oe. The flakes that were produced from starting composition 4) consisted of separate precipitates and dendrites of cobalt ferrite with an average size of 2000 A on edge. The σ s of this sample was 10 emu/g and the H c was 650 Oe.
In Vitro Antimicrobial Susceptibility of Anaerobic Bacteria Isolated from Clinical Specimens

The minimal inhibitory concentrations of 601 clinical isolates of anaerobic bacteria to 10 different antimicrobial agents were determined by an agar-dilution technique. Nearly all strains were resistant to kanamycin and gentamicin, although moderate activity to both drugs was noted with Fusobacterium sp., anaerobic cocci, some strains of Bacteroides melaninogenicus , and nonsporeforming gram-positive bacilli. Chloramphenicol at 12.5 μg/ml inhibited all but three of the strains tested. Tetracycline at 6.25 μg/ml had high activity against all groups tested, with the exception that only 39% of strains of Bacteroides fragilis were inhibited at this concentration. Excluding certain species of Bacteroides , the majority of anaerobes were inhibited by penicillin at 3.1 μg/ml or less and by cephalothin at 12.5 μg/ml or less. Lincomycin at 6.2 μg/ml or less was active against nearly all strains. Erythromycin at a concentration of 3.1 μg/ml was active against B. fragilis ; however, erythromycin was less active against the other groups. Most of the minimal inhibitory concentrations of lincomycin exceeded those of clindamycin by fourfold. Rifampin inhibited virtually all strains at 3.1 μg/ml.
Adapting control charts for the preliminary analysis of multivariate observations

The Hotelling's T 2control chart is typically recommended for the preliminary analysis of multivariate observations in quality monitoring applications. This chart detects many types of out-of-control patterns, but it is not sensitive to small shifts in the mean vector. We recommend that when used in the preliminary analysis of multivariate data, multivariate CUSUM charts should have a zero shrinking parameter for greatest sensitivity to small shifts in the mean vector. When the multivariate EWMA chart is used for preliminary analysis, we recommend that it be applied to the data in reverse time order as well as in time order, to avoid asymmetrical performance in the detection of shifts. For all three charts, simulation is necessary to determine accurate control limits, because of the use of estimated parameters.
A new algorithm for shortest paths among obstacles in the plane

We introduce a new algorithm for computing Euclidean shortest paths in the plane in the presence of polygonal obstacles. In particular, for a given start points, we build a planar subdivision (ashortest path map) that supports efficient queries for shortest paths froms to any destination pointt. The worst-case time complexity of our algorithm isO(kn log2n), wheren is the number of vertices describing the polygonal obstacles, andk is a parameter we call the “illumination depth” of the obstacle space. Our algorithm usesO(n) space, avoiding the possibly quadratic space complexity of methods that rely on visibility graphs. The quantityk is frequently significantly smaller thann, especially in some of the cases in which the visibility graph has quadratic size. In particular,k is bounded above by the number of different obstacles that touch any shortest path froms.
Dynamics of Large Polymictic Lake. I: Field Observations

The internal dynamics of Clear Lake, California—a large, multibasin and polymictic lake—under stratified conditions is described in this work. Particular attention is paid to one of the subbasins of Clear Lake (Oaks Arm). Several field experiments were conducted in the lake to obtain data of wind, currents, and water temperature using a wide range of devices. Based on field observations and previously published results on basin responses to wind stress, a conceptual model of the internal circulation of the Oaks Arm is proposed. Its internal dynamics are characterized by diurnal cycles of setup and relaxation of horizontal temperature gradients driven by the wind forcing. The setup and relaxation processes are modulated by the influence of the earth’s rotation and create a residual cyclonic circulation. This circulation mechanism is here referred to as baroclinic pumping. It is in all likelihood not exclusive to Clear Lake but probably exists in other large and relatively shallow lakes forced by strong and almost periodic wind events where basin-scale internal waves do not play a major role in the dynamics of the system.
NeuroDialog: an EEG-enabled spoken dialog interface

Understanding user intent is a difficult problem in Dialog Systems, as they often need to make decisions under uncertainty. Using an inexpensive, consumer grade EEG sensor and a Wizard-of-Oz dialog system, we show that it is possible to detect system misunderstanding even before the user reacts vocally. We also present the design and implementation details of NeuroDialog, a proof-of-concept dialog system that uses an EEG based predictive model to detect system misrecognitions during live interaction.