cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A robot-assisted sensorimotor training program can improve proprioception and motor function in stroke survivors

Proprioceptive deficits are common among stroke survivors and are associated with slower motor recovery, poorer upper limb motor function, and decreased self-care ability. Somatosensory feedback augmenting proprioception should enhance motor control after stroke, but available evidence is inconclusive. This study evaluated the effects of a robot-aided, somatosensory-focused training on proprioceptive acuity and motor performance in individuals with sub-acute and chronic stroke. Twelve stroke survivors completed two training sessions on two consecutive days. During training, participants used a haptic robotic wrist exoskeleton and made continuous, goal-directed wrist ab/adduction movements to a visual target while receiving vibro-tactile feedback. Proprioceptive acuity and active movement errors were assessed before, immediately after, and two days after intervention. Results showed significantly improved proprioceptive acuity at posttest and retention. Motor accuracy measures showed improvements, however these were not statistically significant. This study demonstrates the feasibility of robot-aided somatosensory rehabilitation training in stroke survivors.
Entrepreneurial Orientation and Social Value Creation

In this paper, we apply the growing body of scholarship on entrepreneurial orientation to understanding organizational performance along social rather than financial metrics. In so doing, we contri...
The Use of Rofecoxib (Vioxx) in the Treatment of Hemophilia.

Abstract BACKGROUND: Joint hemorrhage and subsequent hemophilic arthropathy are significant complications in hemophilia. The pathophysiology of joint damage in such patients involves inflammation and angiogenesis. Cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) inhibitors are anti-inflammatory agents approved for use in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis and have potent anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic and analgesic properties yet do not affect platelet function in the manner of traditional NSAIDs. These properties make such agents potentially useful as adjunctive therapy in hemophiliacs. There is only one prior report of rofecoxib treatment in a single hemophiliac patient. METHODS: A retrospective chart review was conducted of all patients with hemophilia A or B seen at the Children's Hospital of Orange County and treated with rofecoxib for acute hemarthrosis, chronic synovitis, target joint or pain. The safety and efficacy of rofecoxib treatment was determined based on information gathered from follow-up clinic visits, physical therapy examinations and nursing notes. Efficacy in hemarthrosis was determined by comparing consecutive bleeds treated without and with rofecoxib and judged subjectively as effective, partially effective or ineffective. Efficacy for chronic synovitis and pain was judged subjectively as above. Efficacy in resolution of target joints was judged as effective if the target joint resolved or ineffective if it did not resolve. RESULTS: A total of 30 patients between 3–40 years of age (26 FVIII deficiency, 4 FIX deficiency, 4 inhibitor patients) were treated for a total of 42 courses of rofecoxib treatment. All courses were evaluated for safety and 31 for efficacy. Rofecoxib was used for 8 acute hemarthroses, 4 target joints, 7 patients with chronic synovitis and 12 episodes of pain (see tables). Dosing regimens were chosen empirically. In most cases patients ≥ 10 years received 25 mg dose and children Treatment of acute hemarthrosis with factor alone versus factor and rofecoxib Efficacy Factor Alone Factor + rofecoxib Ineffective 1 (8%) 0 (0%) Partially Effective 3 (23%) 2 (25%) Effective 9 (69%) 6 (75%) Efficacy of rofecoxib in the management of target joints (along with factor therapy), chronic arthritis and pain in hemophilia patients Efficacy Target Joint Chronic Synovitis Pain Ineffective 2 (50%) 0 (0%) 0 (0%) Partially Effective N/A 2 (28.5%) 1 (8%) Effective 2 (50%) 5 (71.5%) 11 (92%) Note: Efficacy judged subjectively by patient and physicians as ineffective, partially effective or effective. Target joints judged subjectively as ineffective or effective. CONCLUSION: This is the largest study to date evaluating COX-2 inhibitors as adjunctive therapy in hemophilia. This study demonstrates that rofecoxib is safe and resulted in only 2 bleeding events that were mild and not definitively related to the medication. Importantly, it was found to be very effective in the management of chronic synovitis and joint pain. It may be useful as adjunctive therapy in the management of acute hemarthrosis and target joints. Further studies are needed to confirm both safety and efficacy.
Maybe it is a big deal? Portrayals of erectile dysfunction in television comedy

This paper explores a surprisingly common yet critically overlooked televisual trope that regulates gender roles and sexual interactions: jokes about male impotence. Drawing from a close textual an...
Stigma and the Toll of Addiction

Stigma and the Toll of Addiction Among the challenges in delivering appropriate care to the millions of people in the United States with substance use disorder is the chilling effect of stigma. Sti...
Epigenetic and Transcriptional Regulation of the Reproductive Hypothalamus

During the last few years, new genes required for the advent of puberty have been identified thanks to the use of new deep sequencing associated technologies. Evidence has emerged suggesting that these genes, organized into functional networks, are regulated by a mechanism of epigenetic control. While the Polycomb group (PcG) of transcriptional repressors is in charge of the repressive arm of this mechanism, the Trithorax Group (TrxG) of epigenetic activators counteract the PcG-mediated silencing during the infantile to juvenile stage where increased Kiss1 expression is needed for activation of gonadotropin-releasing hormone secretion from the hypothalamus. Here we will discuss the recent advances and tools used for large-scale genomic and epigenomic studies of the developing hypothalamus.
Noninfectious aortitis: A case report:

IntroductionNoninfectious aortitis has been increasingly reported worldwide with a growing prevalence in western medicine. Attributed to our increasingly diverse population, western surgeons must b...
The role of depression course on life functioning and coping outcomes from baseline through 23-year follow-up.

Although studies have examined how depressed patients’ baseline characteristics predict depression course, still needed are studies of how depression course is associated with modifiable long-term ...
Conceptualizing community translanguaging through a family literacy project

This article examines translanguaging that occurs in and as a community. Expanding the notion of translanguaging, we conceptualize community translanguaging as collaborative meaning-making among ch...
Activation of NRF2 by APE1/REF1 is redox-dependent in Barrett's related esophageal adenocarcinoma cells

Abstract Background Chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a major risk factor for the development of metaplastic Barrett's esophagus (BE) and its progression to esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC). Uncontrolled accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in response to acidic bile salts (ABS) in reflux conditions can be lethal to cells. In this study, we investigated the role of APE1/REF1 in regulating nuclear erythroid factor-like 2 (NRF2), the master antioxidant transcription factor, in response to reflux conditions. Results We found that APE1 protein was critical for protecting against cellular ROS levels, oxidative DNA damage, double strand DNA breaks, and cell death in response to conditions that mimic reflux. Analysis of cell lines and de-identified tissues from patients with EAC demonstrated overexpression of both APE1 and NRF2 in EAC cells, as compared to non-neoplastic esophageal cells. Using reflux conditions, we detected concordant and prolonged increases of APE1 and NRF2 protein levels for several hours, following transient short exposure to ABS (20 min). NRF2 transcription activity, as measured by ARE luciferase reporter, and expression of its target genes (HO-1 and TRXND1) were similarly increased in response to ABS. Using genetic knockdown of APE1, we found that APE1 was required for the increase in NRF2 protein stability, nuclear localization, and transcription activation in EAC. Using knockdown of APE1 with reconstitution of wild-type and a redox-deficient mutant (C65A) of APE1, as well as pharmacologic APE1 redox inhibitor (E3330), we demonstrated that APE1 regulated NRF2 in a redox-dependent manner. Mechanistically, we found that APE1 is required for phosphorylation and inactivation of GSK-3β, an important player in the NRF2 degradation pathway. Conclusion APE1 redox function was required for ABS-induced activation of NRF2 by regulating phosphorylation and inactivation of GSK-3β. The APE1-NRF2 network played a critical role in protecting esophageal cells against ROS and promoting cell survival under oxidative reflux conditions.
LBP24: MULTI-PARAMETER FLOW CYTOMETRY OF T-CELL SUBPOPULATIONS AND LINEAR MIXED EFFECTS MODEL TO CHARACTERIZE MULTIORGAN DYSFUNCTION SYNDROME AFTER MECHANICAL CIRCULATORY SUPPORT DEVICE

Aim A main cause of death in Advanced Heart Failure (AdHF) after Mechanical Circulatory Support Device (MCSD) is the Multiorgan Dysfunction Syndrome (MOD), mediated by an aberrant immune response. Since implantation of MCSD has immune modulating effects that may influence patient outcome, we hypothesized that T cell immunophenotyping would reflect assessment of patient risk before and after MCSD implant. Methods Peripheral blood was collected from 11 consented patients at days −1, 1, 3, 5 and 7 before and after MCSD surgery, and at 5 corresponding time points from 4 healthy controls. Multi-parameter flow cytometry was performed to measure CD4 and CD8 T cell maturation state as well as experienced and exhausted T cell subpopulations. Clinical risk was calculated using a modified Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score and the MELD-XI score. Results Multi-parameter immunophenotyping generated 34 CD4 and CD8 subpopulations. High scored MELD samples, obtained from higher risk patients, exhibited higher percentage of both effector and central memory CD8 cells (p = 0.0071 and p = 0.0001) and higher percentage of effector memory CD4 cells (p = 0.0074). There was a trend towards association with higher percentage of CD8+KLRG1+CD28 (p = 0.06) and lower %PD1+CD57+CD4+cells (p = 0.0785) compared with lower MELD scored patient samples. We further analyzed the data using stepwise and penalized regression methods. We reduced the number of predictors down to 3 T-cell subpopulations with immunophenotyping profile of chronically activated T cells: CD8+CD38+CD57+, CD4+CD38+CD57+ and CD4+CD38+KLRG1+. We used these subpopulations as the inputs to a linear mixed effect model to successfully predict the SOFA scores of patients’ samples. The overall model was found to be statistically significant (p = 0.006), and the regression coefficient for CD8+CD38+CD57 was statistically significant (p Conclussion Statistical modeling of T-cell subpopulation frequencies in peripheral blood of MOD patients can provide significant information predictive of their clinical phenotype, warranting further study for developing models to better predict patient outcomes.
A 256 by 256 liquid crystal over silicon spatial light modulator

This paper describes a binary reflection mode spatial light modulator (SLM) which is constructed by placing a layer of ferroelectric liquid crystal directly on a silicon chip. The light modulating area of the device is a square array of 256 by 256 pixels on 21.6 micron centers. The SLM has been demonstrated to work with electronic load times of 43 /spl mu/s and liquid crystal switching times of /spl ap/50 /spl mu/s. >
NR2B-NMDA receptor mediated increases in intracellular Ca2+ concentration regulate the tyrosine phosphatase, STEP, and ERK MAP kinase signaling

NMDA receptors regulate both the activation and inactivation of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling cascade, a key pathway involved in neuronal plasticity and survival. This bi-directional regulation of ERK activity by NMDA receptors has been attributed to opposing actions of NR2A- versus NR2B-containing NMDA receptors, but how this is implemented is not understood. Here, we show that glutamate-mediated intracellular Ca(2+) increases occur in two phases, a rapid initial increase followed by a delayed larger increase. Both phases of the Ca(2+) increase were blocked by MK-801, a non-selective NMDA receptor inhibitor. On the other hand, selective inhibition of NR2B-NMDA receptors by Ifenprodil or Ro 25-6981 blocked the delayed larger phase but had only a small effect on the rapid initial increase. The rapid initial increase in Ca(2+), presumably because of NR2A-NMDAR activation, was sufficient to activate ERK, whereas the large delayed increases in Ca(2+) mediated by NR2B-NMDARs were necessary for dephosphorylation and subsequent activation of striatal-enriched phosphatase, a neuron-specific tyrosine phosphatase that in turn mediates the dephosphorylation and inactivation of ERK. We conclude that the magnitude of Ca(2+) increases mediated through NR2B-NMDA receptors plays a critical role in the regulation of the serine/threonine and tyrosine kinases and phosphatases that are involved in the regulation of ERK activity.
Entanglement Tsunami in (1+1)-Dimensions

We study the time dependence of the entanglement entropy of disjoint intervals following a global quantum quench in ($1+1$)-dimensional CFTs at large $c$ with a sparse spectrum. The result agrees with a holographic calculation but differs from the free field theory answer. In particular, a simple model of free quasiparticle propagation is not adequate for CFTs with a holographic dual. We elaborate on the entanglement tsunami proposal of Liu and Suh and show how it can be used to reproduce the holographic answer.
Occurrence of BaCu2O2 in plasma-sprayed YBaCuO coatings

Abstract BaCu 2 O 2 (tetragonal, a = 5.722, c = 10.064 A, space group I4 1 /amd, Z =4) was identified by X-ray powder diffraction in plasma-sprayed YBaCuO coatings, together with Y 2 O 3 , YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7−δ , Y 2 BaCuO 5 and BaCuO 2 . In atmospheric plasma spraying, YBaCuO particles are melted at very high temperature and undergo a rapid solidification under low oxygen pressure which leads to the formation of a large amount of BaCu 2 O 2 . This interpretation also explains the experimental results of previous investigations in which the X-ray lines of BaCu 2 O 2 had been ascribed to “an unknown BaO-CuO phase” or to “a simple cubic phase”.
Associative and free recall of paired-associates under conditions of response articulation and % OSM partial reinforcement

Free and associative (S-R) response recall was compared under % OSM partial reinforcement (100%, 50%, 25%) where attention to responses was or was not required. An attempt was made to identify the major source of the negative effect of % OSM on paired-associate learning. Two hypotheses were tested. The response learning hypothesis identifies the effect of % OSM as indirect through Ss decreased attention to responses not paired with stimuli during learning trials. With the associative hypothesis, the effect of % OSM is direct through the reduced opportunity to associate stimuli with responses. Definitive support for the associative hypothesis was found.
Algorithms for discovering potentially interesting patterns

A pattern discovered from a collection of data is usually considered potentially interesting if its information content can assist the user in their decision making process. To that end, we have defined the concept of potential interestingness of a pattern based on whether it provides statistical knowledge that is able to affect one’s belief system. In this paper, we introduce two algorithms, referred to as All-Confidence based Discovery of Potentially Interesting Patterns (ACDPIP) and ACDPIP-Closed, to discover patterns that qualify as potentially interesting. We show that the ACDPIP algorithm represents an efficient alternative to an algorithm introduced in our earlier work, referred to as Discovery of Potentially Interesting Patterns (DAPIP). However, results of experimental investigations also show that the application of ACDPIP is limited to sparse datasets. In response, we propose the algorithm ACDPIP-Closed designed to effectively discover potentially interesting patterns from dense datasets.
Feynman-Dyson rules in parametric space

Concise and practical formulas for Feynman-parametric integrals are assembled and presented in the form of Feynman-Dyson rules in parametric space. These rules enable us to write down $S$-matrix elements directly in terms of some parametric functions. They are particularly useful for construction of ultraviolet- and infrared-divergence-free Feynman-parametric integrals in a form suitable for numerical integration.
Can Eco-Labels Tune a Market? Evidence from Dolphin-Safe Labeling

Abstract In this paper we test whether the dolphin-safe labels altered consumer purchases of tuna. We also provide a partial measure of the total welfare effects of the dolphin-safe labeling policy. The results confirm our hypothesis that the dolphin–tuna controversy and the subsequent implementation of dolphin-safe labeling affected consumer behavior. Further, the paper provides market-based evidence that consumers can respond to eco-labels; the dolphin-safe label increased the market share of canned tuna. The welfare analysis provides a partial measure of society's willingness to pay to avoid personally contributing to dolphin mortality as a result of tuna fishing.
Geographic isolation, genetic divergence, and ecological non-exchangeability define ESUs in a threatened sky-island rattlesnake

Abstract We utilized nine microsatellite loci and 865 bases from two mtDNA genes to estimate demographic parameters and visualize historic/contemporary connectivity among populations of a sky-island rattlesnake (New Mexico ridge-nosed rattlesnake, Crotalus willardi obscurus). This taxon is listed as threatened under the United States Endangered Species Act (ESA) and is distributed patchily within three borderland mountain ranges [Animas (ANM), Peloncillo (PEL), Sierra San Luis (SSL)] of southeastern Arizona, southwestern New Mexico and north-central Mexico. Molecular data support a hypothesis of northward range expansion from Mexico, with subsequent isolation on sky-islands through vicariant desertification that transformed intervening wooded valleys and low elevation passes into inhospitable habitat. Historic and recent movements have been within rather than among mountains. Although populations are linked via ancestral polymorphism, they do not represent a single mtDNA gene pool. All are genetically bottlenecked, with the Peloncillo reflecting deepest/sharpest declines and fewest captures per unit effort. Most recent population declines occurred ∼4 kybp (thousands of years before present). Thus, population reductions are historic and environmental rather than contemporary and anthropogenic. Our data demonstrate that PEL is ecologically non-exchangable with other sky-island populations, and thus comprises one ‘evolutionary significant unit’ (ESU), while SSL and ANM comprise ‘management units’ (MUs) within a second ESU. All three meet legal criteria for recognition as ‘distinct population segments’ (DPS) under the ESA.
On the borders of the worthwhile: Intoxication and worship

Mesurant les differents degres de ce qui vaut la peine d'etre fait sur une echelle des modes de vie allant du travail au jeu et de l'intoxication a l'adoration, l'A. montre la difficulte d'une justification rationnelle de nos actions quotidiennes et de l'evaluation de nos choix
Long Length Functions

Abstract Let D be an integral domain satisfying ACCP. We refine the classical notion of (factorization) length by recursively defining the length of a nonzero element to be the least ordinal strictly greater than the lengths of its proper divisors. This gives a surjective function L : D ⁎ → L ( D ) , where L ( D ) , called the length of D, is the least ordinal strictly greater than the length of any nonzero element. We show that an ordinal is the length of a domain satisfying ACCP if and only if it is of the form ω β . We give some conditions for when monoid domains, generalized power series domains, inert extensions, or localizations at splitting sets satisfy ACCP, and calculate the lengths of these domains in these cases. Finally, for each positive integer n ≥ 2 and each ordinal μ ≥ n , we construct a domain D satisfying ACCP and an x ∈ D ⁎ with L ( x ) = μ and l ( x ) = n , where l ( x ) denotes the number of factors in a minimum length atomic factorization of x.
Revision of treatment planning for carcinoma of the prostate

Abstract Fifty-one males were examined by computerized tomographv (CT) scans of the pelvis to establish the size and location of the prostate and seminal vesicles. Twenty-two had clinical stage B, carcinoma (Ca) of the prostate, and two stage C. Simulation of the patients with Ca of the prostate for four field large and small boost field technique proved inadequate in any one of three dimensions when compared with CT findings. If the seminal vesicles were to be included as might be necessary in poorly differentiated Ca or advanced stages, the errors of simulation in any one dimension could be significant.
A Problem in Malayo-Polynesian Social Organization

DESPITE the wide differences in the social systems which now exist among Malayo-Polynesian societies, Murdock (1948; 1949:228-31, 34950) offers convincing evidence that they are derived from an original "Hawaiian" type of structure. The features characterizing this type include bilocal extended families, bilateral kindreds, the absence of unilinear kin groups, and Generation-Hawaiian kinship terminology. Not considered by Murdock, because it was beyond the scope of his immediate interests, is another feature characterizing the organization of a great many Malayo-Polynesian societies: the association of individual rights to land with membership in some kind of kin group. It is so widespread as to suggest that it may be an original Malayo-Polynesian pattern. If Murdock's reconstruction is correct, the only two kin groups with which land ownership could be associated were the bilateral kindred and the bilocal extended family. Now a person's kindred as defined by Murdock (1949:44, 56-62) includes roughly half of the members of his father's and mother's kindreds, respectively, coinciding with the kindreds of neither of them. This means that there is no continuity of kindred membership from one generation to the next. Kindreds, as so defined, cannot, therefore, function as land-owning bodies. Bilocal extended families could so function, but this would require that all out-marrying members of a family lose membership in the land-owning group while all in-marrying spouses acquire such membership. Yet the present-day Malayo-Polynesian land-owning groups stress consanguinity as the basis of membership, not residence alone. Since, moreover, consanguineal ties are the normal basis for the transmission of land rights, consanguineal groups are more effective instruments of collective land ownership than residential ones. I find it difficult, therefore, to accept the idea that the early Malayo-Polynesians associated ownership directly with the bilocal extended family. But what alternatives are there? The evidence for Murdock's reconstruction
Netrin-1 Signaling Regulates De Novo Protein Synthesis of κ Opioid Receptor by Facilitating Polysomal Partition of Its mRNA

The expression of κ opioid receptor (KOR) is subjected to both transcriptional and posttranscriptional controls. We report that KOR translation is regulated by netrin-1 in primary neurons of dorsal root ganglion (DRG) and in P19 embryonal carcinoma cells. Without stimulation, a significant portion of KOR mRNA is maintained in a dormant state and partitions in the translationally inactive, post-polysomal fraction. During netrin-1 stimulation, which activates its downstream target focal adhesion kinase (FAK), KOR mRNA rapidly partitions to the translationally active polysomal fraction. Functionally, the newly synthesized KOR proteins in DRG neurons are able to bind to specific ligands. This report describes the first example of netrin-1 signaling in the translational control of a drug receptor KOR, which involves the mediator of netrin-1, FAK, and a novel mechanism that enhances the association of target mRNA with polysomes for translational activation.
Pyridine on cleaved Si(111): Analysis of the vibrational modes and nature of the chemisorption process

Note: Univ wisconsin,dept phys,madison,wi 53715. univ calif berkeley lawrence berkeley lab,berkeley,ca 94720. univ wisconsin,ctr synchrotron radiat,madison,wi 53715. montana state univ,dept phys,bozeman,mt 59717.ISI Document Delivery No.: APH08 Reference LSE-ARTICLE-1985-016doi:10.1103/PhysRevB.32.2351 Record created on 2006-10-03, modified on 2017-05-12
Interaction of plasma-sprayed YBa2Cu3Ox coatings with alumina substrates

Abstract Superconducting YBa 2 Cu 3 O x coatings can be obtained by plasma spraying. Since the as-sprayed coatings do not have an appropriate crystalline structure and are not superconducting, a thermal treatment must be carried out to crystallize them in the appropriate YBa 2 Cu 3 O x phase. During heat treatment, reactions between the substrate and coating occur and, in some cases, may prevent superconducting properties from being obtained. In the present study, YBa 2 Cu 3 O x coatings were deposited onto alumina substrates by plasma spraying and heat treated under flowing oxygen at 950 °C for various periods of time. The modification in coating microstructure was investigated after different heat treatments. A degradation mechanism of the superconducting coatings is proposed.
Spatial and temporal patterns of Ixodes scapularis (Acari: Ixodidae) in southeastern Connecticut.

The spatial distribution and abundance of host-seeking Ixodes scapularis Say (formerly I. dammini) were studied in 10 residential sites in woodlands during 1989–1991. In total, 7,385 larval, 2,202 nymphal, 164 female, and 248 male I. scapularis were collected in Old Lyme, Lyme, East Haddam, and Chester, CT. The majority of host-seeking I. scapularis larvae (84.2%) and nymphs (73.5%) were collected within the woodland plots, whereas a large proportion of the adults were recovered from lawn (36.4%) and transitional areas between lawns and forest (20.9%). The majority (71.1% of 1,244) of all stages of I. scapularis on the lawn were recovered within 1 m of the lawn edge, particularly along woods and stone walls. In contrast, most of the I. scapularis (60.0% of 3,065) collected in the woods were >3 m from any defined edge and ticks were recovered throughout the forested plots. The abundance of nymphs on the lawns (1.0–29.4 nymphs per ha per sample) and in the woods (17.3–271.5 nymphs per ha per sample) varied significantly among the 10 residences during June and July. The average rate of infection by Borrelia burgdorferi, the causal agent of Lyme disease, in the nymphs was 14.2, 14.1, and 15.5% for 1989, 1990, and 1991, respectively. The abundance of I. scapularis nymphs in the forest was significantly higher in June 1991, than in 1989 or 1990. The risk of exposure to infected nymphs of I. scapularis varied spatially with the landscape and individual residence, and temporally.
Determining the thermal conductivity of liquids using the transient hot disk method. Part II: Establishing an accurate and repeatable experimental methodology

In this study, the accuracy of the conventional method that is employed to determine the thermal conductivity of fluids with the transient plane source (TPS) technique is evaluated experimentally using six different fluids. It was found that the accuracy of this method is insufficient for calculating the thermal conductivity of fluids due to: (1) the technique’s inability to resolve the volumetric heat capacity in close proximity to the sensor, leading to highly erroneous calculations of thermal conductivity at early time scales, and (2) the lack of any means to predict whether the onset of natural convection will have an effect during testing. As a result, a new method is developed that utilizes the known volumetric heat capacity of a fluid and the equation used to predict the onset of natural convection that was developed in Part I of this study, which is published separately. Results suggest that this new method yields highly accurate calculations for the thermal conductivity of fluids (within 5.6% of values reported in the literature) over a wide range of Prandtl number (Pr = 0.7–11,000) and temperature.
Buckling Behavior of Sinusoidal Web for Composite Wood I-Joist with Elastically Restrained Loaded Edges under Compression

AbstractWood I-joists are efficient and lightweight structural members that are well suited for long-span floor and rafter applications. However, because of the thin-wall nature of the web and relatively low stiffness, local web buckling of the joist is an issue that must be considered. To increase the buckling capacity of these joists, investigators at West Virginia Univ. and Univ. of Idaho developed web panels with a sinusoidal geometry, instead of the flat web panels commonly used for prefabricated I-joists. This study presents analytical modeling, experimental testing, and finite-element (FE) analysis of the local buckling capacities of these sinusoidal web panels under compression. The flanges and web are not rigidly connected; thus, this problem can be described as the instability of a sinusoidal shell with two rotationally restrained loaded edges under compression. Using an energy method, the critical compression buckling stresses were obtained in terms of the elastic rotational restraint stiffness...
The seeker experimental system at MIT Lincoln Laboratory

The Seeker Experimental System (SES) is the passive range within MIT Lincoln Laboratory's Optical System Test Facility (OSTF). The SES laboratory focuses on the characterization of passive infrared sensors. Capable of projecting static and dynamic scenes in both cryogenic and room temperature environments, SES supports sensors that range from tactical ground based systems through strategic space-based architectures. Optical infrared sensors are a major component of military systems, having been used to acquire, track, and discriminate between potential targets and improve our understanding of the physics and phenomenology of objects. This paper delineates the capabilities of the SES laboratory and describes how they are used to characterize infrared sensors and develop new algorithms and hardware in the support of future sensor technology. The SES Cryogenic Scene Projection System vacuum chamber has recently been upgraded to allow dynamic projection of radiometrically accurate two-color infrared imagery. Additional capabilities include the ability to combine imagery from multiple sources, NIST traceable radiometric calibration, and dynamic scene projection in an ambient environment using a combination of high speed mirrors, point source blackbodies, and resistive array based dynamic infrared scene projectors.© (2006) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Kv7-type Channel Currents in Spiral Ganglion Neurons INVOLVEMENT IN SENSORINEURAL HEARING LOSS

Alterations in Kv7-mediated currents in excitable cells result in several diseased conditions. A case in DFNA2, an autosomal dominant version of progressive hearing loss, involves degeneration of hair cells and spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) from basal to apical cochlea, manifesting as high-to-low frequency hearing loss, and has been ascribed to mutations in Kv7.4 channels. Analyses of the cellular mechanisms of Kv7.4 mutations and progressive degeneration of SGNs have been hampered by the paucity of functional data on the role Kv7 channels play in young and adult neurons. To understand the cellular mechanisms of the disease in SGNs, we examined temporal (young, 0.5 months old, and senescent, 17 months old) and spatial (apical and basal) roles of Kv7-mediated currents. We report that differential contribution of Kv7 currents in mice SGNs results in distinct and profound variations of the membrane properties of basal versus apical neurons. The current produces a major impact on the resting membrane potential of basal neurons. Inhibition of the current promotes membrane depolarization, resulting in activation of Ca2+ currents and a sustained rise in intracellular Ca2+. Using TUNEL assay, we demonstrate that a sustained increase in intracellular Ca2+ mediated by inhibition of Kv7 current results in significant SGN apoptotic death. Thus, this study provides evidence of the cellular etiology and mechanisms of SGN degeneration in DFNA2.
Tracheal resection in the morbidly obese patient: the role of dexmedetomidine

We present a case of respiratory distress in a morbidly obese woman, which was complicated by a severe tracheal stenosis of the third to sixth cartilage. She had a history of sleep apnea and could only breathe sitting upright. An anesthetic, technique using dexmedetomidine was selected because of its properties of anxiolysis and sedation, with lack of respiratory depression. No intraoperative or postoperative opioids were required. Dexmedetomidine in high doses offers another approach to managing the patient with a compromised airway. Opioids were avoided in this patient, who was at major risk of postoperative respiratory depression and sleep apnea.
The adrenal cortex and the kidney

The adrenal cortex regulates renal function in a number of important ways; indeed, normal renal function cannot be understood without recognition of such regulation. Well-recognized examples of such regulation are the control of body fluid tonicity through regulation of urinary solute concentration-a function controlled "primarily" by vasopressin, but secondarily and importantly by the adrenal cortex-and control of body sodium-a function controlled primarily by renal tubular sodium reabsorption but regulated by sodium-retaining steroids. The kidney can regulate adrenal function by changing reabsorption of sodium and secretion of potassium, and also by release of renin. The primary target of such regulation is the secretion of aldosterone, which may be influenced by body fluid volume, potassium ion and angiotensin II. Because of these interrelationships, the pathophysiology of certain disease states may be described as aberrations in feedback loops between adrenal cortex and kidney. In this paper we will consider this "system" in some detail, and attempt to explain four disorders as examples of errors in control. In the form of "primary" aldosteronism resulting from hyperplasia of all adrenal cortical tissue, overproduction of aldosterone persists in the absence of all known stimulatory factors. In renovascular hypertension, angiotensin and aldosterone production may persist despite systemic hypertension. In the non-salt-losing form of the adrenogenital syndrome of congenital adrenal hyperplasia without treatment, failure of feedback inhibition by Cortisol may result in overproduction of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) which, in turn, may lead to overproduction of progesterone. Progesterone may cause sodium loss and overproduction of renin and aldosterone while blocking their effects. In the syndrome of juxtaglomerular hyperplasia with normal blood pressure, overproduction of renin may result from unresponsiveness of blood vessels leading to a lack of feedback inhibition by pressure rise. Under certain circumstances sodium loss can potentiate both the overproduction and the unresponsiveness. Excessive renin leads to aldosteronism and potassium loss.
Mass spectrometric studies of sulfonyl esters of diazonaphthalenones: Relationship between fragmentation patterns and photolithographic mechanisms

Esters of 2-diazonaphthalenone sulfonic acid were examined by mass spectrometry using electron impact and chemical ionization techniques. Charactristic differences in the fragmentation patterns of positional isomers have been observed. In a manner analogous to photo-induced decompositions, the diazoketo functional groups fragment by elimination of N2 to form an indenoketene ion. An alternative process involves the apparent loss of 26 mass units from the molecular ion. The latter process is explained by evoking the abstraction of two hydrogen atoms following the loss of N2. With deuterium isotope labeling, it has been shown that the hydrogens are abstracted from the surface of the probe tip used for introduction of the samples into the mass spectrometer. It is concluded that an environment rich in hydrogen or proton-donating properties promotes and enhances the incorporation of the hydrogen atoms and formation of the [M-26] species at the expense of the ketene moiety, which is an important intermediate in the photoresist process. By extrapolation it may be inferred that the efficiency of the photolithographic process could be influenced by the availability of protons in the photoresist matrix.
Pineal and associated neuroendocrine rhythms.

(1) The mammalian pineal gland exhibits a number of biosynthetic rhythms. (2) Pineal serotonin levels are highest during the day and lowest at night. (3) Conversely, the activity of serotonin N-acetyltransferase, which converts serotonin to N-acetylserotonin, is greatly increased at night over daytime values. (4) As a consequence, N-acetylserotonin content increases in the pineal gland at night as does the product of its metabolism, melatonin. (5) Either indoleamines, such as melatonin, or polypeptides, such as arginine vasotocin, may be the pineal substances which influence the secretion of hormones from other endocrine glands. (6) Besides the obvious circadian rhythms within the pineal gland there are indications that the activity of this organ also changes on a seasonal basis, being more active during the winter than during the summer. (7) One physiological niche of the pineal gland may be to act as an intermediary between seasonal photoperiodic changes and the neuroendocrin reproductive axis. (8) In long day breeders, the pineal is believed tobe most active during the winter and, as a result, its hormonal products suppress sexual physiology. (9) This ensures that animals can only breed during restricted periods of the year.
Cooperative phenomena at grain boundaries during superplastic flow

Abstract In situ observations in a scanning electron microscope (SEM) performed on different microstructural scales in Pb—62%Sn specimens, superplastically deformed in single shear and in simple tension, showed sliding of grain groups [cooperative grain boundary sliding (CGBS)], rotation of grain groups (cooperative grain rotation) and cooperative grain boundary migration (correlated migration of sliding grain boundaries). The observed macroscopic pattern of the CGBS surfaces is consistent with predictions of slip-lines field theory. The progress of the sliding of grain blocks at the scale of grain groups can be modeled in terms of cellular dislocations. The micromechanism for such sliding and the migration of sliding grain boundaries at the scale of the individual interface might be interpreted from the viewpoint of grain boundary dislocations.
WHEN BEING GOOD IS BAD: AN EXPANSION OF NEUTRALIZATION THEORY*

Traditional subcultural theorists maintain that offenders operate in an environment in which oppositional norms catering to ethics of violence, toughness and respect dominate the social landscape. Such offenders actively reject middle-class value systems and operate beyond the boundaries of what is considered decent society. In their seminal work introducing Neutralization Theory, Sykes and Matza criticized such subcultural perspectives for overemphasizing the extent to which actors reject mainstream values (1957). They maintained that offenders and delinquents are aware of conventional values, understand that their offending is wrong, and self-talk before offending to mitigate the anticipated shame and guilt associated with violating societal norms. This study analyzes street offender decision making and behavior in an effort to expand that perspective. The analyzed data was taken from interviews of hardcore, active, noninstitutionalized (uncaught) drug dealers, street robbers and carjackers to determine how they neutralize to support their offending. Findings indicate that these offenders strive to protect a self-image consistent with a code of the streets orientation rather than a conventional one. That is, they neutralize being good rather than being bad. This suggests that expanding the scope of neutralization theory beyond the confines of conventional value systems will allow the theory to explain the behavior of a larger group of offenders. It also takes into account the kinds of real-world contextual forces that now influence urban crime.
Identification and quantification of 5-methoxyindole-3-acetic acid in human urine.

Abstract A putative pineal metabolite, 5-methoxyindole-3-acetic acid, was quantified in human urine by a gas chromatographic-mass spectrometric method. Excretion of 4.77 ± 2.25 μg/day (mean ± SD) was consistent from each of three normal subjects over 2–4 weeks. Excretion did not vary with regard to menstrual cycle. The daily pattern of excretion bore no relationship to that of 6-hydroxymelatonin, the major metabolite of melatonin, indicating that the major portion of urinary 5-methoxyindole-3-acetic acid does not derive from melatonin.
The Development of Comprehension of Double Negation in Chinese Children.

Abstract Children's comprehension of double negation in Chinese was tested by asking them to carry out actions with dolls according to stimuli sentences containing double negation. It was found that young children interpreted double negation just as simple negation. A small subgroup of older children interpreted a double negation either as a simple negation or as an equivalent to a positive meaning inconsistently. Only the oldest subgroup of children consistently interpreted double negative sentences as equivalent to affirmative sentences. The reasons for the late acquisition of double negation and the chance performance at the transitional stage are discussed.
Rational regulation of learning dynamics by pupil-linked arousal systems

The ability to make inferences about the current state of a dynamic process requires ongoing assessments of the stability and reliability of data generated by that process. Here the authors report that these assessments were reflected in pupil diameter changes, suggesting that pupil-linked arousal systems can help regulate the influence of incoming data on existing beliefs.
Workplace Bullying in the OR: Results of a Descriptive Study

This study describes the incidence of workplace bullying among perioperative RNs, surgical technologists, and unlicensed perioperative personnel in two academic medical centers. The study sought to determine whether the demographic variables of gender, ethnicity, hospital, years of experience on the unit, years in the profession, and job title predict the experience of workplace bullying; whether a relationship exists between workplace bullying and emotional exhaustion; and whether bullying is associated with perceptions of patient safety in the OR. The cross-sectional design included perioperative nurses, surgical technologists, and unlicensed perioperative personnel (N = 167). Fifty-nine percent of the study participants reported witnessing coworker bullying weekly, and 34% reported at least two bullying acts weekly. Having one's opinion ignored is the most common bullying act, with 28% of respondents experiencing being ignored. Differences in the experience of bullying can be found between hospitals and among ethnicities. Emotional exhaustion also was correlated with bullying. The participants did not perceive bullying as affecting patient safety.
Ar40 diffusion in homogenous orthoclase and an interpretation of Ar diffusion in K-feldspars

Ar40 diffusion in a natural, non-perthitic orthoclase has been studied isothermal heating experiments between 500° and 800°C under both vacuum and hydrothermal (2 kbar) conditions. The sample is a one-phase K-feldspar without detectable chemical of structural inhomogeneities as verified by heating experiments, chemical and microprobe analyses, and cell refinements. The orthoclase does not disorder detectably and is stable for the duration of the heating interval. Diffusion coefficients were calculated using an isotropic model for spherical grains. Agreement of diffusion coefficients obtained on grain-sizes which differed by a factor of four indicate that the effective dimension for Ar40 diffusion is the actual particle size. A series of experiments at 700°C show that Ar40 loss may be described by the ideal spherical model and that the diffusion coefficient does not change with time. The Arrhenius relation is obeyed with a single activation energy and the diffusion coefficients are described by: D = (0·00982) exp — (43800/RT). Agreement of experiments conducted under vacuum and hydrothermally (up to 2 kbar) indicate that pressure and H2O do not significantly affect Ar40 loss. Relatively small amounts of alkali exchange between the feldspar and hydrothermal salt solutions do not affect the loss behavior. The simple behavior obtained for this orthoclase is attributed of the use of a simple technique within the region of sample stability and to the homogeneous nature of the feldspar. Effects due to sample instability and to the use of perthites are discussed. The new data are compared to those for homogeneous feldspars showing that the orthoclase gives diffusion coefficients which are as low as those sanidine. It is suggested that perthitization of feldspars in nature may reduce the effective grain size for diffusion and thereby allow diffusional loss of Ar40 at relatively low temperatures.
Implementation of PACS and informatics in a community-sized hospital: making real-time radiology a reality

This paper describes the implementation experience in a community hospital setting to provide medical information at the point of decision instantaneously using digital and communication technologies. A unique partnership has been formed between the provider, the Saint John's Health Center, and the vendor to develop, design, and implement a hospital- wide PACS using a multi-phased approach.© (2001) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
LC-MS-based Metabolomics of Xenobiotic-induced Toxicities

Xenobiotic exposure, especially high-dose or repeated exposure of xenobiotics, can elicit detrimental effects on biological systems through diverse mechanisms. Changes in metabolic systems, including formation of reactive metabolites and disruption of endogenous metabolism, are not only the common consequences of toxic xenobiotic exposure, but in many cases are the major causes behind development of xenobiotic-induced toxicities (XIT). Therefore, examining the metabolic events associated with XIT generates mechanistic insights into the initiation and progression of XIT, and provides guidance for prevention and treatment. Traditional bioanalytical platforms that target only a few suspected metabolites are capable of validating the expected outcomes of xenobiotic exposure. However, these approaches lack the capacity to define global changes and to identify unexpected events in the metabolic system. Recent developments in high-throughput metabolomics have dramatically expanded the scope and potential of metabolite analysis. Among all analytical techniques adopted for metabolomics, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) has been most widely used for metabolomic investigations of XIT due to its versatility and sensitivity in metabolite analysis. In this review, technical platform of LC-MS-based metabolomics, including experimental model, sample preparation, instrumentation, and data analysis, are discussed. Applications of LC-MS-based metabolomics in exploratory and hypothesis-driven investigations of XIT are illustrated by case studies of xenobiotic metabolism and endogenous metabolism associated with xenobiotic exposure.