cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Supratentorial intracerebral hemorrhage volume and other CT variables predict the neurological pupil index

Abstract Objectives There is growing interest in the ability of automated infrared pupillometry to assess severity of neurological illness. We studied the correlation between computed tomography (CT) indicators of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) severity with objective measures of the pupillary light reflex (PLR), and hypothesized that hemorrhage volume would predict the Neurological Pupil index™ (NPi™), an indicator of pupillary reactivity. Methods This study examined data from patients with supratentorial ICH who underwent serial pupillometer evaluations. CT images were examined to determine the location and laterality of the hemorrhage, along with hematoma volume (using the simplified ABC/2 method), midline shift, hydrocephalus score, and modified Graeb score (indicating interventricular hemorrhage). Demographics were examined with standard measures of central tendency, hypotheses with logistic regression, categorical data with Fisher’s Exact X2, and multivariate modeling with constructed MAX-R models. Results Data were gathered from 44 subjects. ICH volume exhibited the strongest correlation with NPi (ipsilateral [r2 = 0.48, p Conclusion ICH volume and shift of midline structures correlate with NPi, and abnormalities in NPi can be predicted by hematoma volume and other CT indicators of ICH severity. Future studies should explore the role of NPi in detecting early hematoma expansion and worsening midline shift.
Statistical coupling constants from hidden sector entanglement

String theory predicts that the couplings of nature descend from dynamical fields. All known string-motivated particle physics models also come with a wide range of possible extra sectors. It is common to posit that such moduli are frozen to a background value, and that extra sectors can be nearly completely decoupled. Performing a partial trace over all sectors other than the visible sector generically puts the visible sector in a mixed state, with coupling constants drawn from a quantum statistical ensemble. An observable consequence of this entanglement between visible and extra sectors is that the reported values of couplings will appear to have an irreducible variance. Including this variance in fits to experimental data gives an important additional parameter that can be used to distinguish this scenario from the case where couplings are treated as fixed parameters. There is a consequent interplay between energy range and precision of an experiment that allows an extended reach for new physics.
Inclusion of Substance Abuse Training in CACREP-Accredited Programs.

Professional counselors and counselors-in-training continue to serve clients who have substance abuse issues, yet systematic training in substance abuse counseling is not available to many counselors. The authors investigated the extent to which students in programs accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP; 2001) are exposed to clients presenting with substance abuse issues and the relationship between state licensure or certification in substance abuse and the resulting perception of the need for the inclusion of substance abuse training in these programs. Three methods are presented for possibly including substance abuse training in CACREP standards.
No need to choose: independent regulation of cognitive stability and flexibility challenges the stability-flexibility tradeoff

Adaptive behavior requires the ability to focus on a current task and protect it from distraction (cognitive stability) as well as the ability to rapidly switch to another task in light of changing circumstances (cognitive flexibility). Cognitive stability and flexibility have commonly been conceptualized as opposite endpoints on a stability-flexibility tradeoff continuum, implying an obligatory reciprocity between the two: greater flexibility necessitates less stability, and vice versa. Surprisingly, rigorous empirical tests of this critical assumption are lacking, however. Here, we tested this assumption by acquiring simultaneous measurements of cognitive stability (congruency effects) and flexibility (switch costs) while independently varying contextual demands on these functions with block-wise manipulations of the proportion of incongruent trials and task switches, respectively. If cognitive stability and flexibility are reciprocal, an increase in flexibility in response to higher switch rates should lead to a commensurate decrease in stability, and an increase in stability in response to more frequent incongruent trials should result in decreased flexibility. Across three experiments, using classic cued task switching (Experiments 1 and 3) and attentional set shifting (Experiment 2) protocols, we found robust evidence against an obligatory stability-flexibility tradeoff. Although we observed the expected contextual adaptation of stability and flexibility to changing demands, strategic adjustments in stability had no influence on flexibility, and vice versa. These results refute the long-held assumption of a stability-flexibility tradeoff, documenting instead that the cognitive processes mediating these functions can be regulated independently - it is possible to be both stable and flexible at the same time.
Association of post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, and related synergistic factors with prodromal Parkinson’s Disease: A case-control study of 1.5 million Veterans

Objective To measure the association of pre-existing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injury (TBI) on subsequent diagnosis of Parkinson9s disease, and to identify common co-occurring sleep, mood, cognitive, and pain disorders that may amplify the association with Parkinson9s disease. Methods Population-based case-control of 1.5 million Veterans within the Veterans Health Administration. Cases of coded Parkinson9s disease were matched 4:1 to controls by gender, birth year, age, race, ethnicity, and smoking. For each disorder, the onset, first increase, and synergy index combined with post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury were measured. Results Onset times for post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury were -22.5 and -10.1 years before diagnosis of Parkinson9s disease. For post-traumatic stress disorder, synergy was greatest with chronic pain, mild cognitive impairment, Rapid eye movement behavior sleep disorder, and periodic limb movement disorder and started at -11, -9, -6, -7 years. For traumatic brain injury, synergy was greatest with migraine, anxiety, sleep apnea, hypersomnia, insomnia, and depression and started at -8, -8, -12, -6, -4, and -5 years. Interpretation There is a long timeline of association of post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain with prodromal Parkinson9s disease and greater-than-additive interactions with other non-motor neurobehavioral disorders. These data provide a more detailed timecourse for post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury and identify early synergies potentially worth targeting in clinical trials.
Long term storage of miRNA at room and elevated temperatures in a silica sol–gel matrix

Storage of biospecimens in their near native environment at room temperature can have a transformative global impact, however, this remains an arduous challenge to date due to the rapid degradation of biospecimens over time. Currently, most isolated biospecimens are refrigerated for short-term storage and frozen (−20 °C, −80 °C, liquid nitrogen) for long-term storage. Recent advances in room temperature storage of purified biomolecules utilize anhydrobiosis. However, a near aqueous storage solution that can preserve the biospecimen nearly “as is” has not yet been achieved by any current technology. Here, we demonstrate an aqueous silica sol–gel matrix for optimized storage of biospecimens. Our technique is facile, reproducible, and has previously demonstrated stabilization of DNA and proteins, within a few minutes using a standard benchtop microwave. Herein, we demonstrate complete integrity of miRNA 21, a highly sensitive molecule at 4, 25, and 40 °C over a period of ∼3 months. In contrast, the control samples completely degrade in less than 1 week. We attribute excellent stability to entrapment of miRNA within silica-gel matrices.
Pediatric Radiology Pearls

Many of the principles of imaging you have learned in the preceding chapters and those that follow are directly applicable to the pediatric patient. Remember, though, that children are not small versions of adults! While a full discussion of pediatric radiology cannot be covered in a single chapter, there are a few “special topics” in pediatric imaging which are included in this section.
Experimental Study of Three-body Cabibbo-suppressed D0 Decays and Extraction of CP Violation Parameters

The authors present measurements of the relative branching ratios, Dalitz plot structures and CP-asymmetry values in the three-body singly Cabibbo-suppressed decays D{sup 0} {yields} {pi}{sup -}{pi}{sup +}{pi}{sup 0} and D{sup 0} {yields} K{sup -}K{sup +}{pi}{sup 0} using data collected by the BABAR detector at the PEP-II asymmetric-energy ring at SLAC. The author applies the results of the D{sup 0} {yields} {pi}{sup -}{pi}{sup +}{pi}{sup 0} analysis to extracting CP-violation parameters related to the CKM angle {gamma} (or {phi}{sub 3}) using the decay B{sup -} {yields} D{sub {pi}{sup +}{pi}{sup -}{pi}{sup 0}} K{sup -}.
What to make of multicore processors for reliable real-time systems?

Now that multicore microprocessors have become a commodity, it is natural to think about employing them in all kinds of computing, including high-reliability embedded real-time systems. Appealing aspects of this development include the ability to process more instructions per second and more instructions per watt. However, not all problems are amenable to parallel decomposition, and for those that are, designing a correct scalable solution can be difficult. If there are deadlines or other hard timing constraints the difficulty becomes much greater. This paper reviews some of what is known about multiprocessor scheduling of task systems with deadlines, including recent advances in the analysis of arbitrary sporadic task systems under fixed-priority and earliest-deadline first scheduling polices. It also examines critically the foundations of these theoretical results, including assumptions about task independence and worst-case execution time estimates, with a view toward their practical applicability.
Age‐dependent variation in the biophysical properties of boreal forests

The changes in boreal forest hydrology, biogeochemistry, and biophysics during succession have critical implications for the sign and magnitude of the vegetation-climate feedbacks that might occur with a change in fire frequency, and also for the identification and attribution of changes in boreal forest to climate. We combined in situ measurements from eddy covariance sites located along an age transect in a Canadian boreal forest with spectral vegetation indices (SVIs) derived from Landsat and MODIS imagery. We found tight spatial relationships between Landsat SVIs and in situ measurements of three important biophysical properties: albedo, maximum daily uptake of CO2 (F CO2-max), and leaf area index (LAI). The tasseled cap indices were particularly well suited for tracking biophysical variation along an age transect. Trends in brightness, greenness, and wetness from 1984 to 2005 indicated how succession drives temporal trends in biophysical properties. Albedo and F CO2-max increased rapidly in the decade following fire and then decreased for the remainder of succession, while LAI continued to increase until ∼135 years and may decrease thereafter. The ratio of greenness to wetness indicated that photosynthesis was limited by leaf area before 10–12 years and by reduced leaf-level photosynthetic rates thereafter, coinciding with the successional replacement of broadleaf deciduous species by evergreen conifer species. The timing of phenological events was also strongly age-dependent, but the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) confounded the disappearance of the snowpack in spring for the onset of photosynthesis. Secondary succession was the dominant source of temporal variability in the biophysical properties we examined.
The Broad View of Aesthetic Experience

Peter Kivy and Noel Carroll advocate a narrow view of aesthetic experience according to which it consists mainly in attention to formal properties. Excluded are cognitive and moral properties. I defend the broader view that includes the latter properties. I argue first that cognition and moral assessment can be inseparable in experience from grasp of form and expressiveness. Second, Kivy and Carroll must extend the notion of form itself beyond ordinary usage to accommodate acknowledged aesthetic experience. Third, the broad view has a more impressive historical lineage than the narrow view. Fourth, aesthetic experience is appreciation of aesthetic value, and the latter is more plausibly analyzed in a broad way.
Numerical Evaluation of Nitrate Distributions in the Onion Root Zone under Conventional Furrow Fertigation

AbstractHYDRUS (2D/3D) model was used to simulate spatial and temporal distributions of nitrate-nitrogen (NO3-N) within and below the onion root zone under conventional furrow fertigation with the urea-ammonium-nitrate (UAN) liquid fertilizer. The simulated water contents in the furrow irrigated onion field agreed well with the measurements. Simulations produced similar patterns of the measured NO3-N concentration profiles throughout the growing season. NO3-N concentrations remained higher and accumulation of NO3-N was observed within the root zone. Higher NO3-N within the root zone was dependent on the rate of the UAN fertilizer application, quantity of NO3-N removed by root uptake, and NO3-N drainage fluxes below the root zone. Simulations also suggested that NO3-N below the root zone during different growth stages remained much higher than a recommended (for drinking water) standard concentration level (10 mg L−1). This resulted in higher NO3-N drainage fluxes, particularly during the fertigation even...
Dendritic Interstitial and Myofibroblastic Cells at the Border of Salivary Gland Tumors

Abstract Objective.—CD34-positive dendritic interstitial cells may be associated with the regulation of tumor growth. This association has been studied in various human neoplasms, especially skin tumors. In this study, we evaluated the distribution of dendritic interstitial cells and myofibroblastic cells at the tumor periphery of various benign and malignant salivary gland neoplasms. Methods.—Forty-nine cases of salivary gland tumors were selected: 16 pleomorphic adenomas, 12 Warthin tumors, 8 polymorphous low-grade tumors, 5 adenoid cystic carcinomas, 6 acinic cell carcinomas, and 2 mucoepidermoid carcinomas. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed by using antibodies for CD34 (dendritic cells) and α-smooth muscle actin (myofibroblast) on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded archival tissue. Staining intensity was graded as marked (3+), moderate (2+), weak (1+), and absent (0). Results.—Staining intensity for CD34 was 3+ in 24 (86%) of 28 benign tumors (pleomorphic adenomas and Warthin tumors) and 6 (29...
Metaoptimization of the in-lining priority function for a compiler targeting a polymorphous computing architecture

Leading polymorphous computing architecture (PCA) efforts include the Raw Architecture Workstation (Raw) and the Tera-op Reliable and Intelligently Adaptive Processing System (TRIPS), both of which are tile-based. The Raw toolchain places responsibility for program decomposition on the programmer, but the TRIPS toolchain automatically generates hyperblocks and allocates them to processing elements. This report identifies evolutionary computation (EC) techniques that enable and that are enabled by PCA technology, focusing on application of EC in enhancing the effectiveness of the TRIPS toolchain, including the Scale compiler. In particular, computational experiments are described that investigate the application of genetic programming to the meta-optimization of the priority function used to increase the number of instructions per hyperblock in the in-lining optimization phase of Scale. Results suggest continued experimentation with larger population sizes and more generations.
The relationship between thermal injury and neutrophil membrane functions as measured by chemotaxis, adherence and spreading

Abstract Thermal injury is frequently associated with acquired immunologic abnormalities including impaired neutrophil (PMN) chemotaxis. To determine if the postburn PMN chemotactic abnormality was associated with abnormalities of other PMN membrane dependent functions, neutrophil adherence, spreading and chemotaxis were measured synchronously and serially in 22 thermally injured patients with mean TBSA burns of 36 per cent. PMN adherence and spreading were greater in the burn patients than in the controls ( P χ 2 =4·13, P χ 2 = 2·3, P >0·10). Thus a correlation between neutrophil chemotaxis and adherence was found, suggesting that other neutrophil cell membrane functions, besides chemotaxis, may be affected by thermal injury.
Endoplasmic reticulum stress and atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis and related cardiovascular diseases represent one of the greatest threats to human health worldwide. Despite important progress in prevention and treatment, these conditions still account for one third of all deaths annually. Often presented together with obesity, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes, these chronic diseases are strongly influenced by pathways that lie at the interface of chronic inflammation and nutrient metabolism. Here I discuss recent advances in the study of endoplasmic reticulum stress as one mechanism that links immune response with nutrient sensing in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and its complications.
A Model for Deploying Software Tutors

We propose a model for deployment of software tutors. In the model, the first stage of the pre-test-practice post-test evaluation protocol is used to initialize the student model needed for adaptation. In order to keep assessment congruent with learning, the same type of activity is used in all three stages of evaluation, and the software tutor itself is used to administer all three stages of the protocol. In order to minimize time while maximizing learning, post-test is set to adapt to practice, and students are also provided feedback after pre-test activities on which they provide incorrect response. Finally, the software tutor is set up to administer the pre-test-practice-post-test protocol as one seamless integrated session with no discernible breaks between the stages. This model of deployment helps the developer evaluate the effectiveness of the software tutor, helps the student minimize time while maximizing learning and enables the instructor to obtain concept-level summary of what worked and what needs to be reviewed again in the classroom. The deployment model has been implemented in software tutors for programming, called problets (problets.org). We produce quantitative data from three problets used in spring 2013 to illustrate the benefits of the deployment model that accrue to developers, students and instructors.
CO hydrogenation over niobia-supported iron catalysts

In recent years many studies have shown the unusual adsorptive and catalytic properties of catalysts which exhibit the so-called strong metal-support interactions (SMSI). The behavior of these catalysts in CO hydrogenation is particularly interesting. In general TiO/sub 2/ enhances the activity of Group VIII metals as has been found for Ni, Pd, and Pt. One notable exception is Fe/TiO/sub 2/, which was reported to be several orders of magnitude less active than Fe/Al/sub 2/O/sub 3/. However, a later study showed that Fe/TiO/sub 2/ and Fe/Al/sub 2/O/sub 3/ have comparable activity but different selectivity. In view of the facts that niobia (Nb/sub 2/O/sub 5/) shows similar support behavior to TiO/sub 2/ for Ir and Ni and also enhances CO hydrogenation activity for Ni, it would be of interest to use Nb/sub 2/O/sub 5/ as a support for Fe. Here the authors report kinetic results for CO hydrogenation over Fe/Nb/sub 2/O/sub 5/ and compare them with those for Fe/SiO/sub 2/. 22 references.
An optimization algorithm for the inventory routing problem with continuous moves

The typical inventory routing problem deals with the repeated distribution of a single product from a single facility with an unlimited supply to a set of customers that can all be reached with out-and-back trips. Unfortunately, this is not always the reality. We focus on the inventory routing problem with continuous moves, which incorporates two important real-life complexities: limited product availabilities at facilities and customers that cannot be served using out-and-back tours. We need to design delivery tours spanning several days, covering huge geographic areas, and involving product pickups at different facilities. We develop an integer programming based optimization algorithm capable of solving small to medium size instances. This optimization algorithm is embedded in local search procedure to improve solutions produced by a randomized greedy heuristic. We demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach in an extensive computational study.
Endogenous Opioid Signaling in the Medial Prefrontal Cortex is Required for the Expression of Hunger-Induced Impulsive Action.

Opioid transmission and dysregulated prefrontal cortex (PFC) activity have both been implicated in the inhibitory-control deficits associated with addiction and binge-type eating disorders. What remains unknown, however, is whether endogenous opioid transmission within the PFC modulates inhibitory control. Here, we compared intra-PFC opioid manipulations with a monoamine manipulation (d-amphetamine), in two sucrose-reinforced tasks: progressive ratio (PR), which assays the motivational value of an incentive, and differential reinforcement of low response rates (DRLs), a test of inhibitory control. Intra-PFC methylnaloxonium (M-NX, a limited diffusion opioid antagonist) was given to rats in a ‘low-drive’ condition (2-h food deprivation), and also after a motivational shift to a ‘high-drive’ condition (18-h food deprivation). Intra-PFC DAMGO (D-[Ala2,N-MePhe4, Gly-ol]-enkephalin; a μ-opioid agonist) and d-amphetamine were also tested in both tasks, under the low-drive condition. Intra-PFC M-NX nearly eliminated impulsive action in DRL engendered by hunger, at a dose (1 μg) that significantly affected neither hunger-induced PR enhancement nor hyperactivity. At a higher dose (3 μg), M-NX eliminated impulsive action and returned PR breakpoint to low-drive levels. Conversely, intra-PFC DAMGO engendered ‘high-drive-like’ effects: enhancement of PR and impairment of DRL performance. Intra-PFC d-amphetamine failed to produce effects in either task. These results establish that endogenous PFC opioid transmission is both necessary and sufficient for the expression of impulsive action in a high-arousal, high-drive appetitive state, and that PFC-based opioid systems enact functionally unique effects on food impulsivity and motivation relative to PFC-based monoamine systems. Opioid antagonists may represent effective treatments for a range of psychiatric disorders with impulsivity features.
Aberration balancing, orthonormal polynomials, and wavefront analysis

Starting with the Zernike circle polynomials for wavefront analysis of rotationally symmetric systems, we discuss the corresponding polynomials for noncircular pupils such as elliptical or rectangular. We also consider such polynomials for anamorphic systems.
Correlation effects on charge-density waves in narrow-band one-dimensional conductors

We show quantitatively that the conditions for charge ordering in one-dimensional metals depend strongly on the band filling and the relative magnitudes of intermolecular electronic correlations. We thereby explain the irregular appearance of $4{k}_{F}$ charge-density waves in conducting organic charge transfer salts. For band fillings incrementally larger than one-fourth, we predict a new kind of Coulomb-induced defect.
Adolescent transplant recipients as peer mentors: a program to improve self-management and health-related quality of life.

The purpose of this study was to examine the safety, feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a cross-age peer mentoring program created to improve adherence and psychosocial outcomes for pediatric liver transplant recipients. Twenty-two participants were assigned to a "mentor now" or "mentor later" waitlist control group. Tacrolimus SD, a validated measure of adherence, was assessed for six months pre- and post-intervention for both groups. Self-report measures of self-management and HRQOL were completed at recruitment and three months after training. Participant report indicated the acceptability of the intervention. Clinically significant improvement in adherence was detected. No significant changes on the psychosocial outcome measures at follow-up were observed. This study demonstrated that an outpatient-based mentoring program is a safe, feasible, and acceptable option to incorporate within a pediatric liver transplant program with potential for promising application in other transplantation populations as well. These results also suggest that the program may have been associated with meaningful improvement in adherence, although further evaluation is warranted.
Topoisomerase II alpha expression in testicular germ cell tumors.

Objectives Inhibitors of topoisomerase II alpha (TopoIIα), an enzyme with a crucial role in DNA maintenance, are included in the chemotherapy protocols for testicular germ cell tumors (GCTs). Despite the success of current chemotherapy regimens, a significant number of patients experience relapse. We analyzed TopoIIα expression in primary and metastatic testicular GCTs because this enzyme is a target for some antineoplastic agents. Methods Primary GCT specimens from 109 patients, including 57 seminomas and 52 mixed GCTs (41 embryonal carcinomas, 23 yolk sac tumors, 19 seminomas, 8 choriocarcinomas, 17 teratomas with immature elements, and 16 teratomas with mature elements), were obtained from our archives. The metastatic lesions from 11 of the patients with mixed GCTs included seven teratomas with mature components, five embryonal carcinomas, one yolk sac tumor, one choriocarcinoma, and one teratoma with immature components. Representative sections were subjected to immunohistochemistry with monoclonal antibody against TopoIIα, and the nuclear staining findings were evaluated. Results Most embryonal carcinoma (100%), yolk sac tumor (95%), seminoma (88%), and choriocarcinoma (62%) components of the GCTs were TopoIIα immunoreactive. None of the teratoma specimens with mature elements expressed TopoIIα. Conclusions The results of our study have shown that TopoIIα is expressed in most seminomas, embryonal carcinomas, yolk sac tumors, and choriocarcinomas, suggesting a possible mechanism of sensitivity of these components to TopoIIα inhibitors. Teratomas with mature and immature elements expressed low levels of TopoIIα, which might contribute to their chemoresistance. These findings imply that the variable chemoresponsiveness of testicular GCTs could have an underlying molecular basis.
Perineural invasion of the trigeminal nerve in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma : Imaging and clinical correlations

BACKGROUND A nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) arising from the fossa of Rosenmuller frequently extends to the paranasopharyngeal space. The common clinical manifestations are neck masses, ear symptoms, bloody nasal discharge, and cranial nerve palsy. Among the patients with cranial nerve palsy, trigeminal neuropathy is one of the most observable neurologic manifestations. This study was designed to evaluate trigeminal perineural tumor invasion. METHODS One hundred and ten patients with newly diagnosed NPC were studied. Both computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging of the head and neck, including the nasopharynx, were performed during the same visit. The extent of the trigeminal perineural tumor invasion was evaluated and correlated with neurologic symptoms. RESULTS At the time of diagnosis, facial pain or paresthesia was noted in 23.6% (26 of 110) of the patients. However, 53.6% (59 of 110) of the patients radiologically had demonstrable trigeminal perineural tumor invasion. Perineural invasion of the extracranial portion of the mandibular division (V3) frequently occurred when an NPC encroached on the paranasopharyngeal region. Nevertheless, the patients usually did not have any subjective sensory impairment. Perineural invasion of the intracranial segment of the mandibular and maxillary divisions (V2) might occur when an NPC spread along the V3 through the foramen ovale. The majority of the patients who had tumor invasion of the intracranial paracavernous region suffered from facial pain or paresthesia over the distribution of the V2 and/or V3. Sensory impairment of the opthalmic division was less common. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that patients can tolerate perineural infiltration of the extracranial segment of the trigeminal nerve by NPC in the early stage of the disease when the tumor is still confined beneath the base of the skull. Dysfunction of the trigeminal nerve is closely related to perineural tumor invasion of the intracranial segment. Cancer 1996;78:2063-9.
Optical Contamination On The Atmosphere Explorer-E Satellite

Atmospheric optical emission measurements by the Visible Airglow Experiment (VAE) on board the Atmosphere Explorer (AE-C, D and E) satellites have been analyzed and found to be contaminated at low altitudes. The contamination maximizes in the forward direction along the spacecraft velocity and is sensitive to the composition and density of the ambient atmosphere. Analysis at two different wavelengths suggests that the contamination is likely to have a diffuse band spectrum which is brighter toward the red. Some unknown processes which involve satellite surface materials and the incoming ambient particles are believed to be responsible for the contamination. A simulation model is presented here to account for the observed angular dependence.
Distributed control and distributed computing

Distributed control algorithms strive to achieve coordination between physically distributed decision-makers and controllers in order to realize some desired behavior of a large-scale system in a fast, stable and accurate manner. However, these methods almost invariably make idealization assumptions concerning the reliability and correctness of the underlying distributed computing system which is used to implement algorithms. When these assumptions are not fully met practice, it may cause substantial and even qualitative changes in the performance of the overall distributed control system. This article discusses the effects of two of the distributed computing issues (i.e., synchronization and communication delays) on the performance of a real-time decentralized adaptive control algorithm.
Electron-hole superconductors

Abstract It is argued that a liquid of N e electrons and N h holes may show an instability against the formation of bound two-electron states of spin S = O for N e ⪡ N h . The pairing relies on the attractive static interaction of the electrons with the screening charge. In the ground state, the (electron) bosons coexist with the (hole) Fermi liquid. Superconductivity resulting from this mechanism bears similarity with trends exhibited by high- T c oxide superconductors.
Oral motor and feeding problems in the tube fed infant

Relatively little information has been available to prepare occupational therapists to meet the special needs of the tube fed infant. The purpose of this paper is to share specific information through a literature review regarding oral motor and feeding intervention for the tube fed infant who also may have a tracheostomy. Suggested treatment strategies are also discussed and illustrated in a case example.
Maintenance of Airway Epithelium in Acutely Rejected Orthotopic Vascularized Mouse Lung Transplants

Lung transplantation remains the only therapeutic option for many patients suffering from end-stage pulmonary disease. Long-term success after lung transplantation is severely limited by the development of bronchiolitis obliterans. The murine heterotopic tracheal transplantation model has been widely used for studies investigating pathogenesis of obliterative airway disease and immunosuppressive strategies to prevent its development. Despite its utility, this model employs proximal airway that lacks airflow and is not vascularized. We have developed a novel model of orthotopic vascularized lung transplantation in the mouse, which leads to severe vascular rejection in allogeneic strain combinations. Here we characterize differences in the fate of airway epithelial cells in nonimmunosuppressed heterotopic tracheal and vascularized lung allograft models over 28 days. Up-regulation of growth factors that are thought to be critical for the development of airway fibrosis and interstitial collagen deposition were similar in both models. However, while loss of airway epithelial cells occurred in the tracheal model, airway epithelium remained intact and fully differentiated in lung allografts, despite profound vascular rejection. Moreover, we demonstrate expression of the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 in airway epithelial cells of acutely rejected lung allografts. These findings suggest that in addition to alloimmune responses, other stimuli may be required for the destruction of airway epithelial cells. Thus, the model of vascularized mouse lung transplantation may provide a new and more physiologic experimental tool to study the interaction between immune and nonimmune mechanisms affecting airway pathology in lung allografts.
FERROELECTRIC FIELD-EFFECT TRANSISTOR DIFFERENTIAL AMPLIFIER CIRCUIT ANALYSIS

There has been considerable research investigating the Ferroelectric Field-Effect Transistor (FeFET) in memory circuits. However, very little research has been performed in applying the FeFET to analog circuits. This paper investigates the use of FeFETs in a common analog circuit, the differential amplifier. The two input Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor (MOS) transistors in a general MOS differential amplifier circuit are replaced with FeFETs. Resistors are used in place of the other three MOS transistors. The FeFET model used in the analysis has been previously reported and was based on experimental device data. Because of the FeFET hysteresis, the FeFET differential amplifier has four different operating modes depending on whether the FeFETs are positively or negatively polarized. The FeFET differential amplifier operation in the different modes was analyzed by calculating the amplifier voltage transfer and gain characteristics shown in figures 2 through 5. Comparisons were made between the FeFET differential amplifier and the standard MOS differential amplifier. Possible applications and benefits of the FeFET differential amplifier are discussed.
SPECTROPOLARIMETRY OF THE CLASSICAL T TAURI STAR T TAURI

High-resolution (R ≈ 60,000) circular spectropolarimetry of the classical T Tauri star T Tau is presented. The star was observed on 1997 November 21 and 22. Analyzing 12 photospheric absorption lines, the mean longitudinal magnetic field is found to be Bz = 12 ± 35 G. The 3 σ upper limit of |Bz| ≤ 105 G. Previously, T Tau was reported to have a mean longitudinal field of 160 ± 40 G. A strong mean magnetic field (~2.4 kG) has been reported on the surface of T Tau based on Zeeman broadening measurements in unpolarized light. The present observations indicate that it is very unlikely that this field is dipolar in nature. In order to verify the observing techniques and analysis methods used on T Tau, spectra of the Sun obtained by observing the asteroid Vesta are analyzed in the same fashion. Here the mean longitudinal field is Bz = -4 ± 3 G, which is well within the limits of previous observations. As a further check on our results, we also present data for the magnetic Ap star 53 Cam, which gives a mean longitudinal magnetic field that agrees well with the published field variations for this star.
Schedule-controlled behavior as an index of the development and loss of ethanol tolerance in the rat

Twelve male Sprague-Dawley rats, following training on one of two food-motivated operant schedules (Fixed-Ratio 30 or Variable Interval 30 s), were exposed to an escalating regimen of daily ethanol (1.125–3.0 g/kg, IP) administration. This increasing dose regimen continued until the maximally tolerable dose for each subject was reached. Tolerance was then monitored for approximately 6 months by periodic ethanol challenge doses (1.5 g/kg). Dose-effect curves (DECs) were obtained prior to chronic ethanol (DEC1), immediately after ethanol tolerance development (DEC2), and 6 months (DEC3) following termination of ethanol exposure. At DEC1, ethanol produced dose-dependent decreases in rate on both schedules with no significant schedule differences in ED50 (the dose effective at reducing the maximal response rate by one-half) values. Maximal tolerance was achieved in means of 46 and 55 days on the VI and FR schedules, respectively. Differences in rate of tolerance acquisition on the initial dose of the chronic regimen (1.125 g/kg) account for most of the difference in the overall rate of acquisition. Comparison of the ED50 data from DECs 1 and 2 indicated that daily ethanol exposure resulted in a 2-fold decrease in ethanol sensitivity (i.e., tolerance) on both operant schedules. The ED50 data from DECs 1 and 3 demonstrated a 1.7-fold decrease in ethanol potency on DEC3. This duration of tolerance was considerably longer than that generally reported, and possibly related to the extended ethanol exposure and the sensitivity of operant schedules to drug effects.
Modeling plant growth using regression with periodically correlated errors

Recent developments in the analysis of periodically correlated time series are used to analyze data in a new approach to modeling plant growth. The data—carbon dioxide (CO2) exchange rates in plants—were gathered using a novel and innovative system for near-continuous measurement of CO2 exchange. Least squares estimates are derived for a piecewise polynomial trend, which carries over in an obvious fashion to a general linear model. The residuals from fitting this trend have seasonal components that are well modeled using a periodic autoregressive moving average (PARMA) model. Standard errors for the trend estimates are then derived based on the fitted PARMA model.
A filter assay for binding of labeled ligands to membrane-bound receptors

Abstract A filter assay was developed for the specific binding of labeled ligands to the acetylcholine receptor in an unpurified suspension of membrane fragments from Torpedo californica . Binding to the filter membrane and the standard deviation of replicates were studied, and it was possible to reduce relative standard deviation to about 3% by accounting for the variable weight of the particles dispensed, stopping the loss of particles to the filter apparatus, regulating the transmembrane pressure during filtration, controlling the time the filter remains subject to suction after all the liquid has passed through the filter, and correcting for variable counting efficiency. A method for dispensing equal aliquots of suspended particulates is also described.
Prediction of power system balancing requirement and tail event

This paper presents a methodology for the prediction of power system balancing requirement and the probability of tail event (large imbalance between generation and load). Maintaining sufficient balancing reserves to match the difference between hourly generation schedule and real-time variable load and intermittent resources becomes more and more challenging with the increasing penetration of intermittent energy sources. The presented methodology uses yearly distributions and hourly distributions of balancing requirement and tail events to provide a high level look at the issue and warn system operators of those hours when problems are most likely to occur. For real-time prediction, a Bayes net model is constructed to model the statistical relationships between system imbalance and forecast errors, generation schedule control errors and other influential factors. The methodology will be able to provide reference information to system operators in determining the sufficiency of system balancing reserve and taking appropriate control actions.
Technology Lite: Advice and Reflections for the Technologically Unsavvy

Teachers often wonder how to integrate technology in their classroom. The journey toward a new literacies framework can be frustrating. Teachers must be flexible, collaborate with others, and recognize frustration as a sign of growth. Often, they must address issues of design, redesign, and multimodality in relation to technology and literacy teaching. Teachers that make the journey, however, will come to realize that technology integration, like teaching, is challenging but rewarding.
Neurotrophic regulation of the development and function of the neuromuscular synapses

Recent studies have established that one of the major functions of neurotrophic factors is to regulate synaptic development and plasticity. This owes a great deal to the studies using the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) as a model system. In this review, we summarize the effects of various neurotrophic factors on the development and function of the neuromuscular synapses. We describe experiments addressing the role of neurotrophins, as well as that of other factors (GFLs, TGF-βs, and Wnts). The synaptic effects of neurotrophic factors are divided into two categories: acute effects on synaptic transmission and plasticity occurring within seconds or minutes after cells are exposed to a particular factor, and long-term regulation of synaptic structure and function that takes days to accomplish. We consider the presynaptic effects on the release of the neurotransmitter ACh, as well as the postsynaptic effects on the clustering of ACh receptors. Further studies of the mechanisms underlying these regulatory effects will help us better understand how neurotrophic factors can achieve diverse and synapse-specific modulation in the brain.
The effect of a herring diet on lipid composition, fatty acid composition, and cholesterol levels in the muscle tissue of pen-reared chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha)

Abstract Two groups of chinook salmon were held in marine net-pens. The control group was fed a Biodiet commercial diet, and the study group was fed whole herring. Fish of both groups were sampled at the start of the study and monthly for 3 months. The herring diet had a significant influence on the dorsal muscle total lipid content which doubled in the first month compared to the controls. The n -3/ n -6 ratio in the herring-fed fish increased by 28%, while in the control group it decreased by 57% during the study period. The change appears to be related to the difference in 18:2 n -6 levels in the diets. Cholesterol levels of the herring-fed salmon were twice that of the salmon fed the commercial diet, but were still much lower than initial cholesterol levels. This study demonstrates, for the first time, that the nutritional quality of pen-reared chinook salmon can be improved shortly before marketing by modifying the diet.
Increased vulnerability to cocaine in mice lacking dopamine D3 receptors

Neuroimaging studies using positron emission tomography suggest that reduced dopamine D2 receptor availability in the neostriatum is associated with increased vulnerability to drug addiction in humans and experimental animals. The role of D3 receptors (D3Rs) in the neurobiology of addiction remains unclear, however. Here we report that D3R KO (D3−/−) mice display enhanced cocaine self-administration and enhanced motivation for cocaine-taking and cocaine-seeking behavior. This increased vulnerability to cocaine is accompanied by decreased dopamine response to cocaine secondary to increased basal levels of extracellular dopamine in the nucleus accumbens, suggesting a compensatory response to decreased cocaine reward in D3−/− mice. In addition, D3−/− mice also display up-regulation of dopamine transporters in the striatum, suggesting a neuroadaptative attempt to normalize elevated basal extracellular dopamine. These findings suggest that D3R deletion increases vulnerability to cocaine, and that reduced D3R availability in the brain may constitute a risk factor for the development of cocaine addiction.
Development of an orthogonal transient internal probe

Summary form only given, as follows. The transient internal probe (TIP) diagnostic is designed to measure the magnetic field profile internal to hot, high density plasmas. A small magneto-optic probe is fired through the plasma at velocities in excess of 2 km/s. Magnetic fields are obtained by illuminating the probe from the front with an argon ion laser and measuring the amount of Faraday rotation in the reflected beam. First generation TIP probes are limited in that only one component of the magnetic field can be measured. The orthogonal TIP probe, however, has the capability of measuring magnetic fields which are perpendicular to the direction of probe travel. Orthogonal measurement capability can provide a full radial scan of the poloidal field profile and serves as a technology base for future multi-dimensional TIP probes. Magnetic field resolution of /spl plusmn/20 gauss and spatial resolution of 5 mm is expected with a system frequency response of 10 MHz. Progress in the development of the orthogonal TIP probe is presented.
Development of fear acquisition and extinction in children: Effects of age and anxiety

Abstract Development of anxiety disorders is associated with neurobiological changes in areas that are a critical part of the fear neurocircuitry. Fear conditioning paradigms can offer insight into the mechanisms underlying the neurobiological ontogeny of anxiety. A small number of studies have focused on the effects of age and anxiety separately in school age children. The present study aimed to investigate these effects in 8–13 year old children with higher and lower trait anxiety. We examined differential fear conditioning and extinction using skin conductance responses and fear-potentiated startle in 60 children recruited from a low-income urban population. The results indicated that children under 10 years of age show poor discrimination of conditioned stimuli, and that anxiety increases fear responses during fear acquisition. After controlling for age and trauma exposure, fear-potentiated startle to the safety cue predicted child anxiety levels suggesting that impaired safety signal learning may be a risk factor for anxiety disorders in adulthood. Identifying risk phenotypes in children may provide opportunities for early intervention and prevention of illness.
Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) polymorphisms and prostate cancer in the CPS‐II Nutrition Cohort

BACKGROUND The HDL-associated enzyme paraoxonase 1 acts to decrease oxidative stress, which is thought to contribute to cancer development. PON1, which encodes paraoxonase 1, has two common, nonsynonymous SNPs that alter the activity of this enzyme and may influence cancer risk. METHODS We investigated the association the nonsynonymous SNPs, Q192R and L55M, with prostate cancer risk in a nested case–control analysis of 1,268 cases and 1,268 matched controls from the American Cancer Society CPS-II Nutrition Cohort. RESULTS For both the Q192R and L55MSNPs, the presence of the variant allele was associated with an increased risk of aggressive prostate cancer that approached statistical significance. The genotype combination that included one variant allele from both SNPs (QR/LM) was associated with an increased risk of more than twofold (OR = 2.18, 95% CI: 1.31, 3.64). CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that the Q129R and the L55M SNP may be associated with increased risk of aggressive prostate, perhaps through attenuation of paraoxonase l activity. Prostate 68:1336–1340, 2008. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.