cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Load balancing for the parallel adaptive solution of partial differential equations

Abstract An adaptive technique for a partial differential system automatically adjusts a computational mesh or varies the order of a numerical procedure with a goal of obtaining a solution satisfying prescribed accuracy criteria in an optimal fashion. Processor load imbalances will, therefore, be introduced at adaptive enrichment steps during the course of a parallel computation. We develop and describe three procedures for retaining and restoring load balance that have low unit cost and are appropriate for use in an adaptive solution environment. Tiling balances load by using local optimality criteria within overlapping processor neighborhoods. Elemental data are migrated between processors within the same neighborhoods to restore balance. Tiling is restricted to uniform two-dimensional meshes and provides limited control of communications volume by priority-based element selection criteria. These shortcomings can potentially be overcome by creating a dynamic partition graph connecting processors and their neighboring regions. After coloring the edges of the graph, elemental data are iteratively transferred between processors by pairwise exchange to permit a more global migration. Octree decomposition of a spatial domain is a successful three-dimensional mesh generation strategy. The octree structure facilities a rapid load balancing procedure by performing tree traversals that (i) appraise subtree costs and (ii) partition spatial regions accordingly. Computational results are reported for two- and three-dimensional problems using nCUBE/2 hypercube, MasPar MP-2, and Thinking Machines CM-5 computers.
Camouflage Comparisons among Fox Squirrels from the Mississippi River Delta

Populations of fox squirrels ( Sciurus niger subauratus ) from the delta of the Mississippi River include pale-agouti, dark-agouti, and nonagouti-black individuals. I tested the possibility that predation could maintain this polymorphism by measuring how well these morphs matched tree-bark backgrounds with respect to overall brightness (intensity), average size of brightness patches, and variation in sizes of brightness patches. Results indicated that pale-agouti morphs consistently are most cryptic and hence that static camouflage alone cannot account for the polymorphism. Either there must be an antipredator advantage for dark morphs when the squirrels are moving, or some other advantage to dark coloration that is unrelated to predation must counterbalance the advantage to pale-agouti coloration in static camouflage.
Epitaxial growth of copper nanowire arrays grown on H-terminated Si(110) using glancing-angle deposition

We report the growth of epitaxial nanowire arrays using the technique of glancing- angle deposition with substrate rotation. Epitaxial copper nanowire arrays were deposited on H-terminated Si(110) using electron beam evaporation. The nanowire arrays were characterized by x-ray diffraction, atomic force microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. Individual nanowires were confirmed to be single crystalline by examination with transmission electron microscopy. The epitaxial growth involves twin formation with the epitaxial orientation relationships: Cu(111)//Si(110) with Cu[110]//Si[001] and Cu[110//Si[001] for each of the twins. As the angle of incidence is increased, Cu grows as isolated columns with a spacing that increases as the angle of incidence is increased. However, the thickness limit for epitaxial growth is reduced as the angle of incidence is increased, and it is reduced to approximately 300 nm for a deposition angle of 75°. The x-ray rocking curves for samples deposited at increasing polar angles show steadily improving crystal orientation up to a deposition angle of about 35°. Beyond 65° deposition angle, the rocking curves show significantly sharper split diffraction peaks indicating that there are distinct orientations. In addition, the split peaks have a much lower full width at half maximum. The observed behavior is explained based on arguments involving unidirectional diffusion arising from adatom parallel momentum.
Recent Advances on Polymers and Polymer Nanocomposites for Advanced Electronic Packaging Applications

The advances of semiconductor technology are mainly due to the advances of polymeric materials. These include the use of polymers as adhesives (both conductive and non-conductive), interlayer dielectrics (low-k, low loss dielectrics), encapsulants (discrete and wafer level packaging), embedded passives (high-k and high-Q materials), superhydrophobic self-cleaning lotus effect surfaces, and etc. In this presentation, we review some of the recent advances of polymeric materials and polymer nanocomposites currently being investigated for these types of applications, such as lead-free electrically conductive adhesives (ECAs) for fine pitch and high current density interconnects, flip chip and wafer level underfills, superhydrophobic self-cleaning lotus effect surfaces, as well as high-k and high-Q nanocomposites for embedded capacitors and inductors
Analysis of the Purcell effect in photonic and plasmonic crystals with losses

We study the spontaneous emission rate of emitter in a periodically patterned metal or dielectric membrane in the picture of a multimode field of damped Bloch states. For Bloch states in dielectric structures, the approach fully describes the Purcell effect in photonic crystal or spatially coupled cavities with losses. For a metal membrane, the Purcell factor depends on resistive loss at the resonant frequency of surface plasmon polariton (SPP). Analysis of an InP-Au-InP structure indicates that the SPP’s Purcell effect can exceed a value of 50 in the ultraviolet. For a plasmonic crystal, we find a position-dependent Purcell enhancement with a mean value similar to the unpatterned membrane.
Reliability and Validity of Nutrition Knowledge Questionnaire for Adults

Abstract Objective To determine the validity and reliability of a nutrition knowledge questionnaire for adults in California. Methods A convenience sample of adults was recruited for cognitive interviews. A mail-based survey of 400 randomly selected addresses was used to assess internal consistency (Cronbach α). Researchers assessed content validity (Student t test) and test–retest reliability (Pearson correlation) in a convenience sample of university students who had previously taken a college nutrition course, compared with students who had not. Results Twenty adults participated in cognitive interviews, 94 adults returned the mailed questionnaire, and 48 university students participated in validity and reliability testing. Cronbach α = .91 and test–retest r = 0.95, demonstrating internal consistency reliability and test–retest reliability. Students who had taken a college-level nutrition course scored significantly higher compared with students who had not ( P Conclusions and Implications Findings show that the questionnaire is a valid and reliable nutrition knowledge measure for use in California and may be of use in other places.
Migration pathways of recirculating murine B cells and CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes

Migration pathways of B cell and CD4+ and CD8+ T cell subsets of murine thoracic duct lymphocytes (TDL) were mapped. Per weight, the spleen accumulated more TDL than any other organ, regardless of lymphocyte subset. Spleen autoradiographs showed early accumulations of TDL in marginal zone and red pulp. Many TDL exited the red pulp within 1 hr via splenic veins. The remaining TDL entered the white pulp, not directly from the adjacent marginal zone but via distal periarterial lymphatic sheaths (dPALS). From dPALS, T cells migrated proximally along the central artery into proximal sheaths (pPALS) and exited the white pulp via deep lymphatic vessels. B cells left dPALS to enter lymphatic nodules (NOD), then also exited via deep lymphatics. T cells homed to lymph nodes more efficiently than B cells. Lymphocytes entered nodes via high-endothelial venules (HEV). CD4+ TDL reached higher absolute concentrations in diffuse cortex than did CD8+ T cells. However, CD8+ TDL moved more quickly through diffuse cortex than did CD4+ TDL. B cells migrated from HEV into NOD. Both T and B TDL exited via cortical and medullary sinuses and efferent lymphatics. A migration pathway across medullary cords is described. All TDL subsets homed equally well to Peyer's patches. T TDL migrated from HEV into paranodular zones while B cells moved from HEV into NOD. All TDL exited via lymphatics. Few TDL entered zones beneath dome epithelium. All subsets were observed within indentations in presumptive M cells of the dome epithelium.
The Effects of Thoracic Inhomogeneities on the Relationship Between Epicardial and Torso Potentials

This study examines the effects of the lungs, spine, sternum, and the anisotropic skeletal muscle layer on the relationship between torso and epicardial potentials. Boundary integral equations representing potentials on the epicardial surface, the torso surface, and the internal conductivity interfaces were solved yielding a set of transfer coefficients valid for any source inside the epicardium and for any conductivity configuration outside the epicardial surface. These transfer coefficients relate potentials on the torso to potentials on the epicardial surface. Calculated torso potentials are generated via the transfer coefficients and measured epicardial potentials for comparison to measured torso potentials. This comparison indicates whether including the thoracic inhomogeneities improves attainable accuracy in calculations relating torso potentials to epicardial potentials.
TNF signals via neuronal-type nitric oxide synthase and reactive oxygen species to depress specific force of skeletal muscle

TNF promotes skeletal muscle weakness, in part, by depressing specific force of muscle fibers. This is a rapid, receptor-mediated response, in which TNF stimulates cellular oxidant production, caus...
Is presurgery and early postsurgery performance related to speech and language outcomes at 3 years of age for children with cleft palate

This study examined the relationship between presurgery speech measures and speech and language performance at 39 months as well as the relationship between early postsurgery speech measures and speech and language performance at 39 months of age. Fifteen children with cleft lip and palate participated in the study. Spontaneous speech samples were obtained in the children's homes at presurgery/9 months, postsurgery/13 months and again at 39 months of age. Correlational analyses revealed a lack of association between speech measures presurgery and early postsurgery and speech outcome measures at 39 months. Significant negative correlations were noted for true canonical babbling ratio presurgery and mean length of utterance (MLU) at 39 months, as well as for size of true consonant inventory presurgery, and both language outcome measures at 39 months (MLU and number of different words). Significant positive correlations were noted for percentage of true stops produced postsurgery and both language measures a...
Reducing cardiovascular disease risk in medically underserved urban and rural communities

Objectives The aim of this study is to evaluate methods for lowering cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in asymptomatic urban and rural underserved subjects. Background Medically underserved populations are at increased CVD risk, and systems to lower CVD risk are needed. Nurse management (NM) and telemedicine (T) systems may provide low-cost solutions for this care. Methods We randomized 465 subjects without overt CVD, with Framingham CVD risk >10% to NM with 4 visits over 1 year, or NM plus T to facilitate weight, blood pressure (BP), and physical activity reporting. The study goal was to reduce CVD risk by 5%. Results Three hundred eighty-eight subjects completed the study. Cardiovascular disease risk fell by ≥5% in 32% of the NM group and 26% of the T group ( P , nonsignificant). In hyperlipidemic subjects, total cholesterol decreased (NM −21.9 ± 39.4, T −22.7 ± 41.3 mg/dL) significantly. In subjects with grade II hypertension (systolic BP ≥160 mm Hg, 24% of subjects), both NM and T groups had a similar BP response (average study BP: NM 147.4 ± 17.5, T 145.3. ± 18.4, P is nonsignificant), and for those with grade I hypertension (37% of subjects), T had a lower average study BP compared to NM (NM 140.4 ± 16.9, T 134.6 ± 15.0, P = .058). In subjects at high risk (Framingham score ≥20%), risk fell 6.0% ± 9.9%; in subjects at intermediate risk (Framingham score ≥10, P Conclusions In 2 underserved populations, CVD risk was reduced by a nurse intervention; T did not add to the risk improvement. Reductions in BP and blood lipids occurred in both high- and intermediate-risk subjects with greatest reductions noted in the high-risk subjects. Frequent communication using a nurse intervention contributes to improved CVD risk in asymptomatic, underserved subjects with increased CVD risk. Telemedicine did not change the effectiveness of the nurse intervention.
How some dyads «fail»: a qualitative analysis with implications for nursing practice

Videotapes of 20 mentally ill and 20 matched well mothers with their three month through 36-month-old-children were analyzed in a two-part study. Part I tested the usefulness of the Maternal Sensitivity Scale and the Maternal Effectiveness Scale in discriminating mentally ill and well mother-child dyads. Part II analyzed the interactions of those dyads that were rated low on the scales in Part I (n = 13) to explore maladaptive patterns of behavior which may explain how the insensitivity and ineffectiveness unfolded. Seven characteristics that were observed to contribute to the interactive disorganization in these 13 dyads are described and discussed.
On the Choice of Starting Point in Stochastic Approximation

Abstract Consider the problem of point estimation of a location parameter θ of a symmetric distribution by way of a Robbins-Monro stochastic approximation recursive approach, particularly the choice of starting random variable. Conditions on the starting variable are given to guarantee that at each step the estimator is unbiased and translation invariant. Finally, a Monte Carlo study is done to compare the behavior of the procedures started by some random variables when the sample size is small and the underlying distribution is long tailed.
Transpiration Induced Shock Boundary-Layer Interactions

Steady and unsteady shock boundary-layer interactions are studied numerically by solving the two-dimensional time-dependent Navier-Stokes equations. To validate the numerical method, the steady interaction is compared with measurements and other numerical results reported in the literature. The numerical study of the steady interaction leads to a suitable method for transpiration boundary conditions. The method applies to unsteady flows as well. Using the validated numerical method, we show that an unsteady shock boundary-layer interaction can occur in a supersonic flow over a flat plate subjected to suction and blowing from the opposite side of the plate, even though the imposed transpiration is steady. Depending on the Mach number, the Reynolds number, the distance of the transpiration boundary to the lower wall, and the transpiration profile, the unsteadiness can be inviscid or viscous dominated. The viscous effect is characterized by the occurrence of self-excited vortex shedding. A criterion for the onset of vortex shedding for internal compressible flows is also proposed.
Nuclear antigens, as DNA, of DSB389 MAb and some other anti-desmin monoclonal antibodies.

Abstract The anti-desmin monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) DSB389, AC54, and DSB860 recognize intermediate filaments (IFs) and nuclear antigens that appear granular, locate around chromosomes, and are insoluble following 0.5% Triton X-100 and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) extraction. Nuclear antigens of the MAbs were searched for in an IFs-deficient clone of SW13 cells. Reactive materials specific to DSB389, AC54, and DSB860 MAbs were trapped at the top of the gel of SDS–agarose–PAGE. The reactivity of the materials disappeared after treatment with DNase I. The reactivity, or trapping of this material at the top of the gel, required previous heat treatment of the sample before application to the gel. The MAbs recognized both single-stranded and double-stranded DNA in ELISA. These results indicate that at least the main nuclear antigens of DSB389, DSB860 and AC54 MAbs are DNA.
Über normale und unternormale Verhältnisse und Aufteilungen der Glimmentladung an ebenen Halbleiterelektroden aus erhitztem Glas

Der normale Kathodenfall an erhitztem Glas wird in Luft zu 310 Volt, in Wasserstoff zu 260 Volt bestimmt. Ferner wird der Einflus des mit der Temperatur veranderlichen spezifischen Widerstandes des Glases auf die die Glimmentladung beherrschenden Extremalgesetze untersucht. Mit zunehmendem Glaswiderstand nimmt die „normale“ Stromdichte an Kathoden aus Glas ab, wahrend die zugehorige Spannung ein wenig zunimmt. Ist der Spannungsabfall im Glas zu hoch, so last sich eine teilweise Kathodenbedeckung nur instabil erzeugen. Es entstehen Rosetten oder andere Figuren. — Verwendet man die ebene Glaselektrode als Anode, wahrend eine Eisenscheibe als Kathode dient, so entstehen stabile, schone Figuren auf der Anode, wahrend das Glimmlicht auf der Kathode in viele runde Flecke zerfallt.
Magnetotail equilibrium theory: The general three-dimensional solution

The general magnetostatic equilibrium problem for the geomagnetic tail is reduced to the solution of ordinary differential equations and ordinary integrals. The theory allows the integration of the self-consistent magnetotail equilibrium field from the knowledge of four functions of two space variables: the neutral sheet location, the total pressure, the magnetic field strength, and the z component of the magnetic field at the neutral sheet.
Results of single- and two-vessel mesenteric artery stents for chronic mesenteric ischemia.

Background To describe the outcomes of single- and two-vessel mesenteric artery stents in patients with chronic mesenteric ischemia (CMI). Methods We reviewed 101 patients (41 men and 60 women; mean age, 73 ± 13 years) treated with mesenteric artery stents for atherosclerotic CMI between 1998 and 2008. Clinical data and outcomes were reviewed in patients treated with single superior mesenteric artery (SMA) stent (group A) or two-vessel celiac artery (CA) and SMA stent (group B). Isolated CA stenting was analyzed as a separate group (group C). End-points were taken as differences in morbidity and mortality and freedom from recurrent symptoms and reinterventions. Results There were 61 patients in group A, 24 in group B, and 16 in group C. All three groups had similar demographics, cardiovascular risk factors, and clinical presentation. There were no differences in early mortality (2%, 4%, and 0%), morbidity (18%, 26%, and 12%), and symptom relief (95%, 78%, and 100%) between groups A, B, and C, respectively (p value was not significant). Mean follow-up was 41 ± 17 months. Freedom for reintervention at 1 and 3 years was similar among patients in groups A (86 ± 5% and 50 ± 9%), B (67 ± 11% and 67 ± 11%), and C (63 ± 13% and 63 ± 13%), respectively (p value was not significant). There were no significant differences in freedom from restenosis at 1 and 3 years among patients in groups A (54 ± 7% and 44 ± 9%), B (47 ± 12% and 39 ± 12%), and C (43 ± 13% and 34 ± 13%), respectively. Primary and secondary patency rates at 3 years were 57% and 96% for SMA and 61% and 87% for CA stents, respectively (p value was not significant). CA stent alone was associated with symptom recurrence in 6 of 16 patients (38%), as compared with the recurrence rate of 18% (11 of 61) in patients who underwent SMA stent placement (p = 0.06). Conclusion Two-vessel CA and SMA stenting do not reduce the incidence of recurrent symptoms or reinterventions when compared with single-vessel SMA stents in patients with CMI. CA stent alone carries a high risk of recurrence.
Perioperative protection of the myocardium in patients with impaired ventricular function.

Abstract Seventeen patients with poor ventricular function and severe coronary artery obstruction were operated on employing hypothermic potassium cardioplegic solution for myocardial preservation. Preoperatively and postoperatively, serial hemodynamics, electrocardiograms (ECG), MB-CPK studies, and technetium pyrophosphate scans were obtained for all patients. All ECGs and scans were negative for perioperative infarction. Peak MB-CPK levels were 40 ± 25 units per liter. Two patients had MB-CPK levels suggestive of perioperative myocardial infarction. The preoperative cardiac index was 2.8 ±0.8 L/min/m 2 and remained the same in the perioperative period. Stroke work index and total peripheral resistance were within normal range and remained constant throughout the period of study. Three patients required epinephrine (0.5 μg per minute) during the first 6 hours postoperatively, and in 2 patients an intraaortic balloon was inserted prophylactically and removed on the second postoperative day. Good myocardial preservation can be achieved in patients with severe coronary artery obstruction and preexisting left ventricular dysfunction using hypothermic potassium cardioplegic solution.
Stimulation of glucose oxidation by reduced nicotinamide-adinine dinucleotide phosphate-linked substrates

Abstract 1. 1. The reduction of various compounds when linked to the concomitant oxidation of NADPH2 generates NADP, an essential cofactor for glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (EC 1.1.1.49) and phosphogluconate dehydrogenase (EC 1.1.1.44), two enzymes of the pentose-phospahte cylce. 2. 2. When the rate of glucose oxidation by the pentose cycle is limited by the availability of NADP, an increase in NADP will stimulate the reactions in (1) and the evaluation of CO2 from glucose. 3. 3. Several NADP2-linked substrates were shown to stimulate [1-14C]glucose oxidation in liver, thyroid, brain and anterior pituitary. 4. 4. Adrenochrome was found to stimulate oxygen consumption in the presence of NADP2. This oxygen consumption was not linked to mitochondria and was not sensitive to KCN.
Semiautomated three-dimensional craniofacial imaging and modeling.

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES The author identified clinical parameters and developed thresholding strategies that facilitate semiautomated three-dimensional craniofacial imaging and modeling. METHODS A polyvinylchloride phantom was imaged on a computed tomography (CT) scanner using multiple scan planes, surrounding media, and two-dimensional reconstruction filters. Three-dimensional reconstructions were performed by an experienced operator on a commercial workstation. A simple mathematical thresholding algorithm derived from these trials was applied to 17 embryologic craniofacial specimens and compared with operator-selected thresholds in the generation of three-dimensional CT images. RESULTS Utilization of the parameter α provides an experimental framework in which operator-selected thresholds can be used to refine simple mathematical thresholding formulae. We demonstrated significant changes in three-dimensional image accuracy based on CT scan plane. CONCLUSIONS Experimentation with a CT phantom enables semiautomated three-dimensional craniofacial imaging and modeling. Further investigation of two-dimensional CT craniofacial datasets is justified.
Resilient aggregation in sensor networks

This paper studies security for data aggregation in sensor networks. Current aggregation schemes were designed without security in mind and there are easy attacks against them. We examine several approaches for making these aggregation schemes more resilient against certain attacks, and we propose a mathematical framework for formally evaluating their security.
Effects of Selective Adaptation on Coding Sugar and Salt Tastes in Mixtures

Little is known about coding of taste mixtures in complex dynamic stimulus environments. A protocol developed for odor stimuli was used to test whether rapid selective adaptation extracted sugar and salt component tastes from mixtures as it did component odors. Seventeen human subjects identified taste components of ‘‘salt + sugar’’ mixtures. In 4 sessions, 16 adapt– test stimulus pairs were presented as atomized, 150-lL ‘‘taste puffs’’ to the tongue tip to simulate odor sniffs. Stimuli were NaCl, sucrose, ‘‘NaCl + sucrose,’’ and water. The sugar was 98% identified but the suppressed salt 65% identified in unadapted mixtures of 2 concentrations of NaCl, 0.1 or 0.05 M, and sucrose at 3 times those concentrations, 0.3 or 0.15 M. Rapid selective adaptation decreased identification of sugar and salt preadapted ambient components to 35%, well below the 74% self-adapted level, despite variation in stimulus concentration and adapting time ( 10 s). The 96% identification of sugar and salt extra mixture components was as certain as identification of single compounds. The results revealed that salt– sugar mixture suppression, dependent on relative mixture-component concentration, was mutual. Furthermore, like odors, stronger and recent tastes are emphasized in dynamic experimental conditions replicating natural situations.
Multi‐Nuclear NMR spectroscopic and proton NMR imaging studies on the effect of water on the silane coupling agent/matrix resin interface in glass fiber‐reinforced composites

Multi-nuclear NMR spectroscopy and proton NMR imaging are used to investigate the absorption of water as well as the effect of water on the relaxation of the silane coupling agent/epoxy resin interface. For samples in which leaching occurred, proton NMR imaging is used to complement weight measurements by showing the amount and location of the water in the sample. 13C and 29Si solidstate NMR spectroscopy show that the water can interact with the silane coupling agent and affect the relaxation of the sample. Water can leach out the low molecular weight oligomers and/or further hydrolyze the silane coupling agent.
Forensic accounting and terrorism

Through empirical research, this article is about the techniques and methods terrorists use in order to obtain funds for their operations. I also note the conditions needed to be exiting when identifying fraud. The US Government goes through great lengths to prevent these acts with the help of specialised task forces and forensic accountants. The article explains specific methods used to detect and prevent these acts, while also citing specific examples from over the years. It concludes that although much has been done in this area, much more work is needed. With technology improving every day, terrorists are able to adapt themselves better to the increasing legislation and methods being implemented.
Trends in Stroke Prevalence Between 1973 and 1991 in the US Population 25 to 74 Years of Age

Background and Purpose— Stroke mortality in the United States has declined since 1900. Primary prevention of stroke incidence did not decline and may have increased during the 1980s, whereas survival after stroke improved substantially during the 1970s and 1980s. The effect of these trends on the prevalence and number of stroke survivors in the United States has not been determined. Methods— The prevalence and number of noninstitutionalized stroke survivors in the United States was estimated through self-report for 3 time periods: 1971–1975, 1976–1980, and 1988–1994, using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) I, II, and III, respectively. Prevalence and number of stroke survivors were analyzed by age (25 to 59 and 60 to 74 years), race (non-Hispanic whites/Mexican-Americans and non-Hispanic blacks), and sex. Estimates were limited to the US population ages 25 to 74 years because NHANES I and II did not include persons older than 75 years. Results— The age-, race-, and s...
Real-time estimation of origin-destination flows for actuation-controlled intersections

This paper presents a new method for the realtime estimation of origin-destination flows on isolated actuation-controlled signalized intersections in the presence of incomplete observations of exiting counts. To make full use of the information obtained from currently-installed loop detectors, a two-step optimization procedure is developed, different from the conventional generalized least squares formulation. Kalman filtering (constrained and unconstrained) is adopted to solve the models, and a numerical example is provided to verify the proposed formulation
Increasing mammography practice by African American women.

purpose: This study examines the effectiveness of the Witness Project, a culturally competent cancer education program that trains cancer survivors to promote early detection and increased breast self-examination and mammography in a population of rural, underserved, African American women. description of study: The primary setting for the Witness Project–an intensive, community-based, culturally sensitive educational program that incorporates spirituality and faith–was the African American church. Baseline and 6-month follow-up surveys were obtained from 206 African American women in two intervention counties and from 204 African American women in two control counties in the rural Mississippi River Delta region of Arkansas. results: Witness Project participants significantly increased (P < .0001) their practice of breast self-examination and mammography (P < .005) compared with the women in the control counties. clinical implications: These results demonstrate that intensive, community-based, culturally sensitive educational programming incorporating the spiritual environment of the faith community, such as the Witness Project, can positively influence breast cancer screening behaviors among rural, underserved African American women. Through the use of community churches and cancer survivors, breast cancer screening activities can be improved in this population.
Comorbid Trends in World Trade Center Cough Syndrome and Probable Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in Firefighters

Background We describe the relationship between World Trade Center (WTC) cough syndrome symptoms, pulmonary function, and symptoms consistent with probable posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in WTC-exposed firefighters in the first year post-September 11, 2001 (baseline), and 3 to 4 years later (follow-up). Methods Five thousand three hundred sixty-three firefighters completed pulmonary function tests (PFTs) and questionnaires at both times. Relationships among WTC cough syndrome, probable PTSD, and PFTs were analyzed using simple and multivariable models. We also examined the effects of cofactors, including WTC exposure. Results WTC cough syndrome was found in 1,561 firefighters (29.1%) at baseline and 1,186 (22.1%) at follow-up, including 559 with delayed onset (present only at follow-up). Probable PTSD was found in 458 firefighters (8.5%) at baseline and 548 (10.2%) at follow-up, including 343 with delayed onset. Baseline PTSD symptom counts and probable PTSD were associated with WTC cough syndrome at baseline, at follow-up, and in those with delayed-onset WTC cough syndrome. Similarly, WTC cough syndrome symptom counts and WTC cough syndrome at baseline were associated with probable PTSD at baseline, at follow-up, and in those with delayed-onset probable PTSD. WTC arrival time and work duration were cofactors of both outcomes. A small but consistent association existed between pulmonary function and WTC cough syndrome, but none with PTSD. Conclusions The study showed a moderate association between WTC cough syndrome and probable PTSD. The presence of one contributed to the likelihood of the other, even after adjustment for shared cofactors such as WTC exposure.
Serum glucose concentration as a modulator of interdigestive gastric motility

The objective of this study was to examine the effect of serum glucose concentration on interdigestive gastrointestinal motility and plasma motilin levels in humans. Motility studies were performed for a 3-h baseline period and a 3-h test period during which serum glucose levels were maintained with a glucose clamp at 250, 175, 140, or 120 mg/dl. During the basal recording, three phases of the interdigestive migrating motor complex (MMC) were easily recognizable, with a mean cycle duration of 97 +/- 12 min. Plasma motilin levels fluctuated in phase with the MMC. Gastric contractions were nearly absent at a serum glucose level of 250 mg/dl and markedly reduced at 175 and 140 mg/dl. Gastric phase III activity was inhibited during these infusions. Gastric contractions and phase III activity were not affected by glucose infusion at 120 mg/dl. In contrast, the frequency of duodenal phase III activity was unchanged at all levels of glucose infusion. Mean motilin levels were significantly reduced during glucose infusion at 250 and 175 mg/dl (p less than 0.05), but not at 140 and 120 mg/dl. We conclude that hyperglycemia inhibits the occurrence of the MMC in the stomach and suppresses plasma motilin levels. The differential sensitivity of motility and motilin concentration to different degrees of hyperglycemia suggests that hyperglycemia can inhibit antral motility independent of plasma motilin. In contrast, the duodenal MMC appears to be insensitive to hyperglycemia. This suggests that the antral and duodenal MMCs are mediated by different mechanisms. Our observations indicate the importance of serum glucose in regulating gastric motility.
PTFOS: Flexible and Absorbable Intracranial Electrodes for Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Intracranial electrocortical recording and stimulation can provide unique knowledge about functional brain anatomy in patients undergoing brain surgery. This approach is commonly used in the treatment of medically refractory epilepsy. However, it can be very difficult to integrate the results of cortical recordings with other brain mapping modalities, particularly functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). The ability to integrate imaging and electrophysiological information with simultaneous subdural electrocortical recording/stimulation and fMRI could offer significant insight for cognitive and systems neuroscience as well as for clinical neurology, particularly for patients with epilepsy or functional disorders. However, standard subdural electrodes cause significant artifact in MRI images, and concerns about risks such as cortical heating have generally precluded obtaining MRI in patients with implanted electrodes. We propose an electrode set based on polymer thick film organic substrate (PTFOS), an organic absorbable, flexible and stretchable electrode grid for intracranial use. These new types of MRI transparent intracranial electrodes are based on nano-particle ink technology that builds on our earlier development of an EEG/fMRI electrode set for scalp recording. The development of MRI-compatible recording/stimulation electrodes with a very thin profile could allow functional mapping at the individual subject level of the underlying feedback and feed forward networks. The thin flexible substrate would allow the electrodes to optimally contact the convoluted brain surface. Performance properties of the PTFOS were assessed by MRI measurements, finite difference time domain (FDTD) simulations, micro-volt recording, and injecting currents using standard electrocortical stimulation in phantoms. In contrast to the large artifacts exhibited with standard electrode sets, the PTFOS exhibited no artifact due to the reduced amount of metal and conductivity of the electrode/trace ink and had similar electrical properties to a standard subdural electrode set. The enhanced image quality could enable routine MRI exams of patients with intracranial electrode implantation and could also lead to chronic implantation solutions.
Qualitative Differences of Divalent Salts: Multidimensional Scaling and Cluster Analysis

Sensations from salts of iron, calcium, magnesium, and zinc with different anions were studied using a sorting task and multidimensional scaling (MDS). Ten divalent salts were adjusted in concentrations such that the mean intensity ratings were approximately equal. Stimuli were sorted on the basis of similarity to minimize any semantic influence and were examined with and without nasal occlusion to eliminate retronasal cues. Compounds representing the four primary tastes and astringency were also sorted. Similarity estimates were derived from sorting and were submitted to MDS. Divalent salts fell outside the area of the space defined by the four primary tastes. The nose-open condition showed that some of the divalent salts have unique metallic sensations along with astringency. The groupings obtained were corroborated using single-linkage cluster analysis. An iron group was most distinctive in metallic sensations; calcium and magnesium salts were primarily bitter; and zinc salts were characterized by astringency. When nasal cues were not available, the sensations from the divalent salts were mainly explained by bitterness and astringency. Results were consistent with a previous evaluation of divalent salts using descriptive analysis.
Long-term use of minidose heparin in post-myocardial infarction.

The value of heparin has been generally accepted in the prevention and treatment of venous thromboembolic phenomena. However, the use of heparin in the prevention of recurrent myocardial infarction (MI) in patients who have already experienced an MI is still being debated.
Factorial Invariance of Child Self-report Across Healthy and Chronic Health Condition Groups: A Confirmatory Factor Analysis Utilizing the PedsQL™ 4.0 Generic Core Scales

Objectives The objective of the present study was to examine the factorial invariance of the PedsQL™ 4.0 Generic Core Scales for child self-report across 11,433 children ages 5-18 with chronic health conditions and healthy children. Methods Multigroup Confirmatory Factor Analysis was performed specifying a five-factor model. Two multigroup structural equation models, one with constrained parameters and the other with unconstrained parameters, were proposed in order to compare the factor loadings across children with chronic health conditions and healthy children. Results Metric invariance (i.e., equal factor loadings) was demonstrated based on stability of the Comparative Fit Index (CFI) between the two models, and several additional indices of practical fit including the root mean squared error of approximation, the Non-normed Fit Index, and the Parsimony Normed Fit Index. Conclusions The findings support an equivalent five-factor structure on the PedsQL™ 4.0 Generic Core Scales across healthy and chronic health condition groups. These findings suggest that when differences are found across chronic health condition and healthy groups when utilizing the PedsQL™, these differences are more likely real differences in self-perceived health-related quality of life, rather than differences in interpretation of the PedsQL™ items as a function of health status.
Selenoproteins: Hierarchy, Requirements, and Biomarkers

Studies of the full selenoproteome have found that five, four, and one of 24 rodent selenoprotein transcripts in liver, kidney, and muscle, respectively, decrease in Se deficiency to <40% of Se-adequate levels, but that the majority of selenoprotein mRNAs are not regulated by Se deficiency. These differences match with the hierarchy of selenoprotein expression, helping to explain this hierarchy, and also showing that selenoprotein transcripts can be used as molecular biomarkers for assessing Se status. The similarity of the response curves for regulated selenoproteins suggests one underlying mechanism is responsible for the downregulation of selenoprotein mRNAs in Se deficiency, but the heterogeneity of UGA position in regulated and nonregulated selenoprotein transcripts now indicates that current nonsense-mediated decay models cannot explain which transcripts are susceptible to mRNA decay in Se deficiency.
Sensors enabling automatic generation of electronic music

In this demo, a new application for the wireless sensor networks (WSN) is presented. This is the first time WSN is used to in the music field, where the music is being manipulated and changed according to the movement of the dancer. Twenty-three tmote sensors have been deployed on a dancing stage, and two sensors were attached to the arms of each dancer. Information collected from sensors deployed on the stage are being sent and processed at a central location where the music being played is manipulated. This project is the first phase of collaboration in a multi-disciplinary research between the Computer Science department and the College-Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati.
Multi-way Partitioning For Minimum Delay For Look-Up Table Based FPGAs

In this paper we present a set cover based approach (SCP) to multi-way partitioning for minimum delay for Look-Up Table based FPGAs. SCP minimizes the number of chip-crossings on each circuit path with minimum logic duplication costs to achieve implementations with minimum delay and minimum number of chips. The overall complexity of SCP is (V2). Experimental results demonstrate that SCP produces partitions that on the average have 14% fewer chips, 28% fewer pins, and 93% fewer chip-crossings on each circuit path compared to ANN which is a simulated annealing based implementation of classical multi-way partitioning. SCP achieves this performance and compact packing at the cost of duplicating 13% of logic on the average. Additionally, in comparison with a lower bound we observe that SCP has produced near-optimal solutions.
Use of 2-Aminopurine and Tryptophan Fluorescence as Probes in Kinetic Analyses of DNA Polymerase β†

Although the use of 2-aminopurine (2-AP) as a probe in stopped-flow analyses of DNA polymerase β (Pol β) had provided important mechanistic insight, the conditions used were limited by the location of 2-AP and the use of a combination of tryptophan (Trp) and 2-AP fluorescence. This study examined different DNA substrates to identify several factors that can affect the observed signal in stopped-flow experiments. Both Trp and 2-AP emissions were separately excited and monitored. It was found that both probes show a fast phase and a slow phase of fluorescence changes, but the direction and the amplitude vary greatly between the two probes and between different DNA substrates. Detailed analyses suggested that the location of 2-AP in the template has a significant impact on the fluorescence properties of 2-AP and that a location opposite the incoming dNTP, which has been used in all such studies in the past, is not optimal. In particular, the results show that placing 2-AP one base after the templating base g...
Principles of Centaurian Design

This paper describes the form and example results of the “Centaurian Design Exercise”. This is an assignment that requires design students to discover and utilize ergonomic and behavioral considera...
Ambulatory Activity in Individuals With Multiple Sclerosis

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Specific characteristics of physical activity limitations associated with multiple sclerosis (MS) remain unclear. Our purpose was to examine the impact of MS disability on physical activity behaviors involving ambulation. We also explored relationships among ambulatory activity parameters and clinical measures of gait, balance, and fatigue. METHODS Twenty-one adults with MS participated: 11 without ambulatory limitation (Expanded Disability Status Scale [EDSS] score ≤ 4.5) and 10 with ambulatory limitation (EDSS score > 4.5). Participants wore a step activity monitor for up to 7 days. Daily values were calculated for parameters indicative of (1) overall activity, (2) upper limits of activity output, and (3) activity work-rest cycles. Clinical measures included Multiple Sclerosis Walking Scale, Timed 25-Foot Walk, Timed Up and Go test, 6-Minute Walk, Dynamic Gait Index, Berg Balance Scale, Activities-specific Balance Confidence Scale, and Modified Fatigue Impact Scale. Statistical analyses were conducted using nonparametric tests. RESULTS Participants without limitation were more active, demonstrated higher upper limits of activity output, and had longer activity bouts than participants with limitation (P < 0.05). Only 1 participant averaged more than 100 steps per minute over a 30-minute period. Of the ambulatory activity parameters, daily step count was most strongly related to gait and balance measures. Of the clinical measures, EDSS and Multiple Sclerosis Walking Scale scores were most strongly related to daily step count. CONCLUSION Individuals with MS are not necessarily sedentary, but few may achieve recommended daily physical activity levels. Ambulatory activity characteristics revealed new insights into physical activity limitations in MS. The study findings suggest that disability status should direct physical activity interventions.
Inhaled loxapine for the urgent treatment of acute agitation associated with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.

AbstractBackground: Acute agitation is a serious complication of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, which may escalate quickly to aggressive behavior. Rapid treatment is therefore important to calm and stabilize the patient, reducing the potential for harm to the patient and others, and allowing further assessment. Current guidelines suggest that where pharmacologic intervention is indicated, medication should preferably be non-invasive, should have a rapid onset and should control aggressive behavior in the short term without compromising the physician–patient relationship in the long term.Objectives: This article presents an overview of a new inhaled formulation of the established antipsychotic loxapine, which aims to provide a more rapidly acting agent for the treatment of acute agitation without the disadvantages of intramuscular or intravenous injection.Discussion: Inhaled loxapine is rapidly absorbed with intravenous-like pharmacokinetics, with a time to maximum plasma concentration of 2 minutes an...
The Significance of Siblings throughout Life

As the field of mental health matures, a consistent stream of cross-sectional and longitudinal research emanating from developmental and clinical psychology has highlighted distinct correlates between early life experiences and adult functioning. From as early as prenatal development and onward, numerous aspects of an individual’s surroundings provide ingredients that coalesce with biological determinants to produce epigenesis. A long list of significant lifelong human features including physical health, food choices, intelligence, occupational status, political ideology, spirituality, sociability, and psychological well-being has been suggested to be influenced by early childhood environment.
Ballantine’s Travels (1875)

Henry Ballantine was a “commercial traveller” from New York, born in India, and of American parents. Traveling from India to Europe by way of Persia, he, his wife, and daughter reached the shores of the Caspian in August 1875. “Resht,” he noted, “though termed a port, is not on the Caspian Sea, but is situated some distance inland. Its harbor, a wretched one, lies twenty-five miles away, called Anzelli; which is reached partly by a well-made road, and partly by boat, through an immense swamp of bulrushes. At Anzelli the Russian mail steamers call once a week, on their voyage from Astrakhan, and again on their return trip from Asterabad; but the facilities for landing passengers and goods at this important Persian entree is so deplorably bad, that often in rough weather they are obliged to pass by without stopping.”1
Science and the special composition question

Mereological nihilism is the thesis that composition never occurs. Some philosophers have thought that science gives us compelling evidence against nihilism. In this article I respond to this concern. An initial challenge for nihilism stems from the fact that composition is such a ubiquitous feature of scientific theories. In response I motivate a restricted form of scientific anti-realism with respect to those components of scientific theories which make reference to composition. A second scientifically based worry for nihilism is that certain specific scientific phenomena (quantum entanglement, natural selection) might require ineliminable quantification over composite objects. I address these concerns, and argue that there seem to be nihilist-friendly construals of the scientific phenomena in question.